Im sure a lot of you are aware but there is a lot different about me this summer... I dont get hot as fast, i cut the grass a lot quicker, and i dont threaten someone's life when the AC isnt under 70 degrees! It amazing what losing 183 pounds can do! I hope I am not annoying you all with my posts about Take Shape for Life, but it really is my passion these days. This plan literally saved my life and I am all about making sure that people know about the plan and helping people change their lives!
The plan bought me time and gave me extra days of doing what I love to do...be a dad and family guy! I shutter to think what would have happened if I had continued down the path i was on. My days on this Earth would have been numbered and Kevin would not have his dad around for a long time, and it still makes me sad to this day to think about what I was doing to myself and my family. Truth be told, TSFL has its amazing stories of people that have lost over 100 pounds, and I have a few clients that are there or heading there, but what people dont understand that there are plenty of stories of people just trying to create optimal health and lose 10-20 pounds! some of my favorite client stories are those that struggled to lose that last 15 pounds trough working out and needed that extra jump start. I am happy to help them do that!
I really want to spread my message and help as many people as i can and I am asking you all for help! I know that we all know people that could benfit from this plan and improve their health. Dont be afraid to approach a friend or loved one about it, share my story with them and have them call me...If my friend TJ had not talked to me when he did I may not be hitting the keys on this laptop right now. Let's see what we can do together...see if we can improve the health of those around us - its the most important gift we can give someone, and i am committed to do that!!
Kevin turned 3 this passed weekend and I can not beleve it. He told me that he would still hug me and give me cuddles until he was 10...i cant wait to remind him of this at 5th grade graduation when he is with his buddies!! i am amazed by how much he has grown up in just the last year and I am so proud to be his dad. He makes me smile every day and I hate it when he goes to bed - - thank God Christine is here because if not he would stay up all night with daddy! I am looking forward to many more great years with him and looking forward to this summer's events!
I plan on posting more often now, so I will share some more about my journey - along with some tips about what my family is eating during summer cookouts and such. Thanks for listening and let me know if i can help you or someone you know on a path to health!!!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Partying at 299
I have to apologize that it has taken me this long to post about the party that my brother Brad planned for me with the assistance of my wife and family. I was completely shocked, and in fact I did not want to go to the bowling alley at 10:30 pm AT ALL! I haven't see 10:30 outside of my house in a long time, so yea - they got me good! I was completely blown away by the people that showed up...all of the people there have touched my life in so many different ways, and it was awesome to get them all in one place. The party was a birthday party and congrats on losing weight party. I learned quickly that I was a much better bowler when I was HUGE! Apparently, when you lose 130+ pounds you also lose the ability to throw the ball straight...I have decided that I am going to blame everything I do poorly on losing a ton of weight. In all reality, I am happy to lose weight and suck at bowling...I am happier now than I was when I was huge and a decent bowler!
For my brother to think to do this for me was overwhelming in itself. When you have someone that knows you so well and makes a night all about you it is a special thing! Brad has been one of my biggest fans in this process because he knows that I have struggled and battled this my whole life...I think its awesome to have someone be proud of you, and I know he is extremely proud of me - and it drives me to continue and push forward. I am inspired by the support of those that I inspire! Sounds weird, but it is very true! Thanks again Brad - the party and support means more to me than I can express. Its great to have a brother like you!
I was talking to Christine about the "Inspiration" blog after I posted it and I told her something that may sound a bit ambitious to some of you. The movie "Pay it Forward" comes to mind when I think of what I want to do with the level of inspiring others. The program I am doing gives my the motivation to spread the message and Pay it Forward to others. Almost as amazing to me as losing 130+ pounds to this point is that I have helped 17 or so others lose at least 25 pounds! I want them to get people to do it, and so on, and so on...We can really change some things in this country, and educate more people on the proper way to diet and not be completely controlled by food...
By the way, did you know it's possible to go out to dinner for your birthday and not feel so full that you may explode?? Up to about 6 months ago I did not, but I do now! I remember going to Fogo De Chao last year with Christine and she said before we went that we could walk around the harbor after dinner....Well, walking back to the car after the carb overload was a huge issue! This year, I felt full after eating my salmon (HUGE salmon fan now by the way), and also felt like I was going to live through the night! It was a much better feeling! And really - if salmon had a fan club I would be President and past President,,,
The scale was yet again my friend this week, but it a much bigger way. In true Anthony style I am able to fully disclose that I weighed in at 435 pounds on October 24th 2011. I always said that I would never get to 300 pounds, and then said I'd never get to 400...well I did! Truth be told, I don't think I would have ever reached 500 pounds, but not because of diet...I don't think I would have lived to see it! On Monday I got on the scale and it said 299! Bye Bye to the 400's and 300's forever...in fact 3's and 4's are longer in my vocab....300's, 400's, 3XL, and 4XL can all go to goodwill, and never come back! I still have some work to do, but for the first time in a long time I can say I am happy with my health and proud of myself for reaching this huge goal!!
Thanks for being there for me everyone....it's great to have true friends!
Anthony
For my brother to think to do this for me was overwhelming in itself. When you have someone that knows you so well and makes a night all about you it is a special thing! Brad has been one of my biggest fans in this process because he knows that I have struggled and battled this my whole life...I think its awesome to have someone be proud of you, and I know he is extremely proud of me - and it drives me to continue and push forward. I am inspired by the support of those that I inspire! Sounds weird, but it is very true! Thanks again Brad - the party and support means more to me than I can express. Its great to have a brother like you!
I was talking to Christine about the "Inspiration" blog after I posted it and I told her something that may sound a bit ambitious to some of you. The movie "Pay it Forward" comes to mind when I think of what I want to do with the level of inspiring others. The program I am doing gives my the motivation to spread the message and Pay it Forward to others. Almost as amazing to me as losing 130+ pounds to this point is that I have helped 17 or so others lose at least 25 pounds! I want them to get people to do it, and so on, and so on...We can really change some things in this country, and educate more people on the proper way to diet and not be completely controlled by food...
By the way, did you know it's possible to go out to dinner for your birthday and not feel so full that you may explode?? Up to about 6 months ago I did not, but I do now! I remember going to Fogo De Chao last year with Christine and she said before we went that we could walk around the harbor after dinner....Well, walking back to the car after the carb overload was a huge issue! This year, I felt full after eating my salmon (HUGE salmon fan now by the way), and also felt like I was going to live through the night! It was a much better feeling! And really - if salmon had a fan club I would be President and past President,,,
The scale was yet again my friend this week, but it a much bigger way. In true Anthony style I am able to fully disclose that I weighed in at 435 pounds on October 24th 2011. I always said that I would never get to 300 pounds, and then said I'd never get to 400...well I did! Truth be told, I don't think I would have ever reached 500 pounds, but not because of diet...I don't think I would have lived to see it! On Monday I got on the scale and it said 299! Bye Bye to the 400's and 300's forever...in fact 3's and 4's are longer in my vocab....300's, 400's, 3XL, and 4XL can all go to goodwill, and never come back! I still have some work to do, but for the first time in a long time I can say I am happy with my health and proud of myself for reaching this huge goal!!
Thanks for being there for me everyone....it's great to have true friends!
Anthony
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
What Inspires You?
When I was a kid, one of the memories I have from school, as early as 3rd grade, is writing about what inspires you - and who your hero is. I know I was wound differently than most kids early on, because my answer to these questions were never celebrities, or the local sport hero. My hero and what inspired me the most was always my dad and mom....Lately, a lot of people have been telling me what an inspiration I am to them because of what I am doing with my weight loss battle. For me this is an extremely heavy weight that I am honored to carry around with me. My parents were inspirations to me through hard work and their determination to be there always for my brothers and I. My answer to those of you who say I am an inspiration is simply, "thanks, now go out and be an inspiration to someone else." While I am honored to be this inspiration and reason that some of the people in my life have decided to turn their lives around and get healthier, I know that this is all a part of something much bigger.
My coach (TJ Topper) has been and continues to be a HUGE inspiration in my life, and has told me from Day 1 of this journey that this is much bigger than just he and I....and we were damn big! I had a conversation tonight with my brothers about how TJ can get me to try mostly anything by just talking to me about it! Tonight I heard that people are saying the same thing about me. For the first time in a long time I know that people are looking at what I do each day and are truly proud, and inspired to better their lives. This is the greatest gift that you can give someone....the power to create change in others simply by your actions. What we all do on a dilay basis affects and influences people around us, whether positively or negatively. At work, there are people who are always negative and bring you down to a point where nothing seems to be good enough to make the day worth while. Or there are people like me that some may want to punch in the face that tells everyone that "I'm living the dream" every time they are asked how its going...Sure it annoys some people, but if just 1 person takes that statement and moves positively ahead in the day because of it, then its worth all the other nasty looks from the Debbie Downers. I know that I never showed negativity to most of you even when i was north of 400 pounds, but inside I was more pissed off than the guy that hosted American Idol with Seacrest in Season 1 that quit because he thought the show would never take off.....good call buddy! That"s why your name is "the guy that hosted with Seacrest in Season 1!" I knew that the life I was living was good at times, but temporary - and I am thankful to TJ for getting me going and giving me not only the gift of a longer life, but this gift to change lives around me!
My point to all this rambling is that change is something that we can all do and something that everyone around you can take notice of and be INSPIRED by.....I have to be honest - -for the first time in my life I didn't think of anyone but myself and my family when I started this in October of 2011...I always used to think about everyone before myself - and i know now that its ok to do things for yourself. "If I can change, and you can change - ANYONE can change!" Sure, its a line from Rocky IV, but it really is something that rings true here for this journey and a lot of journeys out there....Whether you are battling weight, alcohol, drugs, reality tv addictions, etc. you can change - and those around you will take notice of that change and you will be surprised that they credit you for it! I am sure that I told TJ a million times that he inspired me and thanked him for it - - I know what that feels like and its HEAVY! A good heavy, but heavy!
For all of you that have called me an inspiration - make it your goal in life for someone to think that about you....you don't have to hear the words, but you can see it happening around you - - - and its amazing!! Kevin is going to be 2 in May and and he picked up a tension band the other day and said, "I'm exercising like daddy" - - he didn't say, "I'm going to try and eat a whole pizza like daddy" - - and let me tell you, that is powerful stuff!
Thanks for the high praise, and for the constant support, but please go out and pay it forward
My coach (TJ Topper) has been and continues to be a HUGE inspiration in my life, and has told me from Day 1 of this journey that this is much bigger than just he and I....and we were damn big! I had a conversation tonight with my brothers about how TJ can get me to try mostly anything by just talking to me about it! Tonight I heard that people are saying the same thing about me. For the first time in a long time I know that people are looking at what I do each day and are truly proud, and inspired to better their lives. This is the greatest gift that you can give someone....the power to create change in others simply by your actions. What we all do on a dilay basis affects and influences people around us, whether positively or negatively. At work, there are people who are always negative and bring you down to a point where nothing seems to be good enough to make the day worth while. Or there are people like me that some may want to punch in the face that tells everyone that "I'm living the dream" every time they are asked how its going...Sure it annoys some people, but if just 1 person takes that statement and moves positively ahead in the day because of it, then its worth all the other nasty looks from the Debbie Downers. I know that I never showed negativity to most of you even when i was north of 400 pounds, but inside I was more pissed off than the guy that hosted American Idol with Seacrest in Season 1 that quit because he thought the show would never take off.....good call buddy! That"s why your name is "the guy that hosted with Seacrest in Season 1!" I knew that the life I was living was good at times, but temporary - and I am thankful to TJ for getting me going and giving me not only the gift of a longer life, but this gift to change lives around me!
My point to all this rambling is that change is something that we can all do and something that everyone around you can take notice of and be INSPIRED by.....I have to be honest - -for the first time in my life I didn't think of anyone but myself and my family when I started this in October of 2011...I always used to think about everyone before myself - and i know now that its ok to do things for yourself. "If I can change, and you can change - ANYONE can change!" Sure, its a line from Rocky IV, but it really is something that rings true here for this journey and a lot of journeys out there....Whether you are battling weight, alcohol, drugs, reality tv addictions, etc. you can change - and those around you will take notice of that change and you will be surprised that they credit you for it! I am sure that I told TJ a million times that he inspired me and thanked him for it - - I know what that feels like and its HEAVY! A good heavy, but heavy!
For all of you that have called me an inspiration - make it your goal in life for someone to think that about you....you don't have to hear the words, but you can see it happening around you - - - and its amazing!! Kevin is going to be 2 in May and and he picked up a tension band the other day and said, "I'm exercising like daddy" - - he didn't say, "I'm going to try and eat a whole pizza like daddy" - - and let me tell you, that is powerful stuff!
Thanks for the high praise, and for the constant support, but please go out and pay it forward
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Life
I felt compelled to blog tonight for a few reasons. One is about fatherhood and the other is about living my life the only way I can; being me. Easter was amazing today...it's funny how being the Easter Bunny for your kid can light up your day and appreciate your own parents as you look back on the years. Kevin woke up this morning and said, "Happy Easter - Bunny bring M&Ms???" haha - I am glad he mentioned the M&Ms last night so Daddy Bunny could go to Walgreens last night. Truth be told, we could have just got him that and the fake grass in the basket and he would have been happy! The look on his face as he came down the steps was priceless. It looked like he was shocked that a bunny hopped all over the place and brought him all these goodies. I am actually glad he looked shocked because the idea is completely ridiculous! What I was most proud of today is the way he reacted when he saw the rest of the family today (Gram, Pop, Uncle Brad, Uncle Michael, Anna, Molly and all the other family). I knew that he felt the same way I did and still do when he saw everyone. He looked at me as if to say, "Dad, this is way better than anything that could have been in my basket!!" Of course he could have meant, "YESSS, Gram is here and now I know I will be getting MORE stuff and BETTER stuff than that bunny brought me!" But, I am banking on the the first feeling...holidays were never about the gifts for me, but for the time I spent with my family, and it truly felt to me that he thought that too - even at 22 months old!
Another reason to write this evening is to respond to many people that have asked me about my weight loss over the last few weeks. By far, the most common question has been: "Why are you making this so public?" For me the reasons are simple. Although this journey seems to be a personal one and one that I need to forge ahead on alone, I feel that I made my struggles with weight in the past extremely public. Everywhere I went, I would not be a healthy person - I would eat whatever I wanted, I would be slow around the bases in my softball games, or drink as much as I wanted at the bar. Looking back - I have always worn my heart on my sleeve and never really kept anything private. I got to my heaviest in front of a lot of people I care deeply about (my parents, my brothers, my family, and even my wife and son). And to me, the "recovery" part of this journey needs to be out there and in front of them too. I'm sure that a lot of you had conversations and feelings about me that worried most of you. For all the pain and worry I put you all through - let me apologize from the bottom of my heart. This may sound weird, but I am battling a lot of inner feelings during this process - but the #1 thing that haunts me is letting myself get to that point in front of everyone, as if I was doing it in front of no one...So, I post these things and post each week about my weight loss not just to get praise and pats on the back, but as an apology and thank you to all of you that cared and worried about me through the years. I am doing this for me, but a large part of this is for each and every one of you that never gave up on me.
Much like the "open book" revealing of my journey, I also posted on facebook that I have registered for a 5k in October. I have got some comments that question why I posted that in such a public way, as if it were biting off a bit more than I can chew. Trust me, after the first week of training for this some of the same feelings entered my mind. But let me tell you this....I WILL finish that 5k....whether I am running, walking, crawling or rolling. To me, it seemed like the one thing I hated to do the most (running) and something I never thought I could do - that's why it must be done!
So, I am just being me by posting all the info about my journey because I feel like I owe it to everyone to overcome these obstacles and to say how much I appreciate all of your kinds words of encouragement.
"I'll never let you down again, I'M BACK...I promise to never go back on that promise" - EMINEM
Happy Easter - I hope you all had a great time with family and friends - they are all that matters in life!
Check the status tomorrow with week 24 results! See you at the finish line!
Another reason to write this evening is to respond to many people that have asked me about my weight loss over the last few weeks. By far, the most common question has been: "Why are you making this so public?" For me the reasons are simple. Although this journey seems to be a personal one and one that I need to forge ahead on alone, I feel that I made my struggles with weight in the past extremely public. Everywhere I went, I would not be a healthy person - I would eat whatever I wanted, I would be slow around the bases in my softball games, or drink as much as I wanted at the bar. Looking back - I have always worn my heart on my sleeve and never really kept anything private. I got to my heaviest in front of a lot of people I care deeply about (my parents, my brothers, my family, and even my wife and son). And to me, the "recovery" part of this journey needs to be out there and in front of them too. I'm sure that a lot of you had conversations and feelings about me that worried most of you. For all the pain and worry I put you all through - let me apologize from the bottom of my heart. This may sound weird, but I am battling a lot of inner feelings during this process - but the #1 thing that haunts me is letting myself get to that point in front of everyone, as if I was doing it in front of no one...So, I post these things and post each week about my weight loss not just to get praise and pats on the back, but as an apology and thank you to all of you that cared and worried about me through the years. I am doing this for me, but a large part of this is for each and every one of you that never gave up on me.
Much like the "open book" revealing of my journey, I also posted on facebook that I have registered for a 5k in October. I have got some comments that question why I posted that in such a public way, as if it were biting off a bit more than I can chew. Trust me, after the first week of training for this some of the same feelings entered my mind. But let me tell you this....I WILL finish that 5k....whether I am running, walking, crawling or rolling. To me, it seemed like the one thing I hated to do the most (running) and something I never thought I could do - that's why it must be done!
So, I am just being me by posting all the info about my journey because I feel like I owe it to everyone to overcome these obstacles and to say how much I appreciate all of your kinds words of encouragement.
"I'll never let you down again, I'M BACK...I promise to never go back on that promise" - EMINEM
Happy Easter - I hope you all had a great time with family and friends - they are all that matters in life!
Check the status tomorrow with week 24 results! See you at the finish line!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
New Conversations
Its funny to me how much conversations change once you have kids. Great topics like the weather and sports are great starters to most friendly encounters. However, once you have kids this definitely changes!! Anything from bowel movements or anything bathroom related, corny and crazy cartoons and kid programming, and deciding exactly how long you will continue to tell people how many months your child is, are all acceptable conversation topics! By the way - Kevin will be 2 in May and not 24 months! People without kids must look at us like we are crazy people when we answer a simple, "how are you" with "Great, Kevin is in big boy undies now!"
It's hard for most parents, myself included, to wrap our heads around the fact that some people don't really care about your kid peeing in a frog potty that is located in the living room because you are training your child to use it! Equally as disturbing to listening to grunts in the living room while eating breakfast is the way we congratulate Kevin each time he successfully achieves his goals of filling up said frog! I have seen Super Bowl celebrations that do not compare to Christine and I as we go crazy celebrating the act of being a "Big Boy!" The confetti is a bit much at times, but I like to think it is helping Kevin! To be honest, I am pretty sure I speak for all parents...I DON'T CARE whether you think its weird that we do what we do! I am happy to say that my weekends, weekdays, and my life revolve around that kid! There is nothing better than seeing that smile as we pour Gatorade on his head when he goes #2! Of course I'm kidding, but i think I just gave Christine some ideas!
I am happy to report that I had another awesome week with the weight loss and life changing program that I am blessed to be a part of. I lost 4 pounds in week 18 for a total of 96 pounds!!!Equal to all my accomplishments is the fact that I am able to help others get on that same path that has literally changed my life! It is easy to help out those you know and care about when you have had such a great journey has been an extremely rewarding and overwhelming experience.
It is important to keep track of what is important in life in all situations. That is one of the many life lessons I have learned in the last 18 weeks. Life is full of temptations, and full of distractions. Keeping your focus on those things that truly mean everything to you is the key to success. There is no Big Mac, loaded fries, or Five Guys Burger that is going to get me lost on my path to a healthier life. Being honest to myself and those crazy and hungry voices in my head is what separates this experience from the others. I know how my weight got out of control, and I accept that - what I wont accept is leaving my son without a father and my wife without a partner. This is not going to happen because I decided not to choose food over them, and did not choose temptations over love! Many of us deal with demons - whether its stress, alcohol abuse, drug addictions, or other obstacles. In all of these situations you need to remember how you got to that point, how to overcome that obstacle, and making sure it doesn't haunt you again! To me, obesity was every bit as addicting and life threatening than any drug out there. I was a ticking time bomb, and I was relying on that Hollywood actor to cut the right wire to defuse it. It turns out that I was the one that needed to cut that wire - and lucky i picked the right one because of the love and support of those around me!
If I told you that the most influential music artist on my journey has been Eminem, I bet a lot of you would be shocked - but its true! The song in general that has really touched me in a strange way is, "I'm Not Afraid." Now, there are some explicit lyrics to this one, but you know what - its 2012, and I can look passed a few F bombs to get to the true meaning behind the song...
"I'm not afraid To take a stand
Everybody come take my hand
We'll walk this road together, through the storm
Whatever weather, cold or warm
Just lettin you know that, you're not alone
Holla if you feel like you've been down the same road"
That is some powerful stuff and has really inspired me. Now, it may be ironic that I used to eat M&Ms and now I am using Eminem to inspire me! I never gave M&Ms time to melt in my hand because they weren't there long enough....I challenge you all to find something inspiring and have it melt in you in some way.
As always thanks for reading and thanks for the support!
Friday, February 17, 2012
Been a while....
Let me first apologize for the lack of blogs, but I have been fairly busy!! My last blog was April of 2010, which was right before the birth of our amazing son Kevin, and every time I went to write a new entry there seemed to be a diaper to change, a bottle to wash, or clothes to turn back to their original color! Not complaining one bit, and I never complained about anything to do with my buddy!
Kevin James was born on May 25, 2010 and with that made my dream of becoming a dad a reality. Many people chase dreams for their entire life - I was lucky enough to achieve this at the age of 30. He is seriously the best kid in the world - tells us when he needs to eat, sleep and use the potty...he is a smart one!! The last 21 months have been fabulous as a family, and Christine and I are constantly learning how to be great parents. We have a new appreciation for adult TV, thanks in large part to the Wiggles! I don't know what it is about those 5 crazy dudes from OZ, but Kevin loves them...and that's all the matters! He has truly completed my life, and I love him more and more everyday!
In part with my dream coming true, the next phase of live has been dedicated to that dream not turning into a nightmare. My battle with weight was always a constant, and I knew I needed to begin my journey towards a healthier life. I don't know all the answers to life, but I know a few things...and one of the most important things in life that I have learned is that when you say you are going to do something - DO IT! Luckily for me, in the last 2 years, I have been surrounded by people that follow this mantra. These people will be thanked personally at a later date, and not by blog, but in person where I will probably break down like the emotional wreck that I am. There are definitely people that have helped to prolong my life and my time with my family, and for that I am most appreciative.
The newest phase of my journey started 17 weeks ago and to date I have lost 92 pounds! I have learned how to eat, and how make healthier decisions. The program I am on has also given me an opportunity to help others in their journey, and that is an amazing feeling. If someone told me that one day I would get my health on track, and help others achieve their goals I would have not believed it - - but this is as real as my love for my family, and by now you should all know how real that is! Let me know if I can help you or someone you love get healthy! I recently got rid of 7 Lawn and Leaf trash bags full of clothing that is now too big - - I say "got rid of" because they are gone forever, much like the pounds I have lost! I have lost weight before and FOUND it....but this plan is a game changer forever! I owe it to myself, my wife and my son to be around for a long time! Its hard to be a great dad when you you're not around, and I'm not going anywhere!
I plan to post a blog every week (at least) and continue to document the happenings of fatherhood and my weight loss journey! As always, I hope to make you laugh at times, and cry at others! But most importantly to me, I hope to be able to stress to you all how special each and every step in life is to me, in hopes I can inspire others! Will I inspire others?? Maybe, or maybe not...But you're reading, and that's a start!
Til next time.....
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Time to Step Up Dad!!
Week 36? ALREADY? I know, it's hard to believe....trust me, I am having some issues with it myself! As most of you know we were waiting for Baby Kevin to decide what position he was going to enter the world in. Until recently he decided that he was going to slide into the world feet first like a base runner stealing a base in the big leagues. Although that sounds cool, it is not the ultimate way to be when you deliver! The doctors had their doubts that he would "flip" into the correct position (head down), and they told us that if he had not by week 36 that we could go ahead and schedule our C section! Kevin had other thoughts!
Every woman wants to give birth the regular way...you know, TONS of drugs and pushing...haha...But lately it seems that many doctors and patients are going to the C Section as the delivery of choice! Christine was finally warming up to the idea of a C Section and the idea that she would not have to be in labor for 36 hours. She was starting to think that a 45 minute procedure to bring Kevin into the world wasn't a terrible idea! In fact, we were bouncing around dates that we wanted as the birth date. May 19th was my choice because it would give me more time at home with the baby before returning to work...although Christine thought i only liked it because it is my parents anniversary and my grandfather's birthday! I am not going to say she is wrong on this one, but my story sounded good too! Christine liked the 18th or the 20th because she likes EVEN numbers...I can't make this stuff up....that was really her reason!
So the doctor came in and felt around and decided that the baby had not flipped and that we should go ahead and schedule a C Section for one of our dates (which would have definitely been one of Christine's dates, just for the record)! At the last second the doctor decided to get an ultrasound to be SURE of the baby's position. During this exam it was determined that my baby boy had indeed FLIPPED! he was head down and gearing up to enter the world as nature intends (you know, with the drugs and the pushing)...So the doctor said, "Now you have to wait for labor like everyone else!!" Come on doc - you know me by now, and we are not going to do this like ANYONE else! haha
So let me get this straight....for the last 4 weeks I have pretty much convinced myself that the horror stories i heard in baby class about the long labor, and the screaming, and the moaning, and the ice chips, and the leg holding, etc. would not be applying to me!! All of the sudden we are going to have to measure contractions and get our bags packed to do this thing the old-fashioned way! And if you have read my blog and know me....you know that I am loving this! So now I get to be the dad speeding to the hospital with a baby on the way!! YES!!!! We are both excited to welcome our baby boy into the world, but this does add some nerves to the situation. But, we will handle it and all will be OK! Since the due date is May 24th, and Christine has gestational diabetes, we cant go past that date...So if nothing happens by then she will be induced that day!
Did you ever notice that whenever a friend or family member has a baby you always get the same message..either on your phone, your email, or on facebook...it always says the SAME THING! It goes something like this!
"{Insert baby name here} was born on {insert date here} at {insert time here}, weighing {insert weight here} and was {inches} long! MOM AND BABY ARE DOING FINE!"
Now, don't get me wrong...i am not stupid enough to think that the dad did more or even equal to what the mom did to have that baby..so the dad should be fine...but why don't we mention the dads?? I think i know why! Think about it...the cadence in which we all say normal, everyday things is exactly the same day to day...like phone numbers, and birthdays. I think this is the way this Baby message has been passed down! For example...if you ask me when I was born - i say, "May 3rd 1980." If my answer was, "The 3rd day of May in the year 1980," that would screw you up and cause you to look at me funny! Its just the way everyone has ALWAYS said it, so it sticks! A better example is the phone numbers...how many people try to throw you off of the xxx-xxx-xxxx cadence by throwing a "sixteen eighty" in there instead of "1-6-8-0!" Generationally speaking, I think there is a gap between what was and what now is the way of child birth! True, the mom still is the one pushing, and the baby is still the one coming through the smallest opening in creation. But, the dad is doing a lot more than in the past! In the past the dads would not be anywhere near the hospital when their kids were born. They would drop off the wife and pick up the wife and baby! Now, if the woman is in labor for 46 hours, her partner is there with her...wiping her head, coaching, feeding ice chips, and getting called awful names and taking shots to the head!! The dad is also sleeping at the hospital with the mom and baby, and the dad is up doing all the duties since mom is resting from a long and exhausting surgery...Now, I am not saying the dad deserves more credit...because I am not stupid enough to type something like that in a blog when 90% of my readers are women!! I would never suggest that also because its not true. But for recent dads like my brother, most of my friends (i said most!) and definitely ME, that were there (or will be there) for the labor and slept at the hospital on those God-awful window ledges, and put in their time during the whole process, well....I think some credit can be a good thing!
All this being said dads...it's time to step it up and earn some of the credit! It's like anything else...if you don't want to be labeled as a certain type of person, then you need to go out of your way to reverse those feelings! Dads, keep fighting the good fight, and maybe one day we will get a blurb in the "Welcome Baby" notifications....just maybe, but probably not!!
Every woman wants to give birth the regular way...you know, TONS of drugs and pushing...haha...But lately it seems that many doctors and patients are going to the C Section as the delivery of choice! Christine was finally warming up to the idea of a C Section and the idea that she would not have to be in labor for 36 hours. She was starting to think that a 45 minute procedure to bring Kevin into the world wasn't a terrible idea! In fact, we were bouncing around dates that we wanted as the birth date. May 19th was my choice because it would give me more time at home with the baby before returning to work...although Christine thought i only liked it because it is my parents anniversary and my grandfather's birthday! I am not going to say she is wrong on this one, but my story sounded good too! Christine liked the 18th or the 20th because she likes EVEN numbers...I can't make this stuff up....that was really her reason!
So the doctor came in and felt around and decided that the baby had not flipped and that we should go ahead and schedule a C Section for one of our dates (which would have definitely been one of Christine's dates, just for the record)! At the last second the doctor decided to get an ultrasound to be SURE of the baby's position. During this exam it was determined that my baby boy had indeed FLIPPED! he was head down and gearing up to enter the world as nature intends (you know, with the drugs and the pushing)...So the doctor said, "Now you have to wait for labor like everyone else!!" Come on doc - you know me by now, and we are not going to do this like ANYONE else! haha
So let me get this straight....for the last 4 weeks I have pretty much convinced myself that the horror stories i heard in baby class about the long labor, and the screaming, and the moaning, and the ice chips, and the leg holding, etc. would not be applying to me!! All of the sudden we are going to have to measure contractions and get our bags packed to do this thing the old-fashioned way! And if you have read my blog and know me....you know that I am loving this! So now I get to be the dad speeding to the hospital with a baby on the way!! YES!!!! We are both excited to welcome our baby boy into the world, but this does add some nerves to the situation. But, we will handle it and all will be OK! Since the due date is May 24th, and Christine has gestational diabetes, we cant go past that date...So if nothing happens by then she will be induced that day!
Did you ever notice that whenever a friend or family member has a baby you always get the same message..either on your phone, your email, or on facebook...it always says the SAME THING! It goes something like this!
"{Insert baby name here} was born on {insert date here} at {insert time here}, weighing {insert weight here} and was {inches} long! MOM AND BABY ARE DOING FINE!"
Now, don't get me wrong...i am not stupid enough to think that the dad did more or even equal to what the mom did to have that baby..so the dad should be fine...but why don't we mention the dads?? I think i know why! Think about it...the cadence in which we all say normal, everyday things is exactly the same day to day...like phone numbers, and birthdays. I think this is the way this Baby message has been passed down! For example...if you ask me when I was born - i say, "May 3rd 1980." If my answer was, "The 3rd day of May in the year 1980," that would screw you up and cause you to look at me funny! Its just the way everyone has ALWAYS said it, so it sticks! A better example is the phone numbers...how many people try to throw you off of the xxx-xxx-xxxx cadence by throwing a "sixteen eighty" in there instead of "1-6-8-0!" Generationally speaking, I think there is a gap between what was and what now is the way of child birth! True, the mom still is the one pushing, and the baby is still the one coming through the smallest opening in creation. But, the dad is doing a lot more than in the past! In the past the dads would not be anywhere near the hospital when their kids were born. They would drop off the wife and pick up the wife and baby! Now, if the woman is in labor for 46 hours, her partner is there with her...wiping her head, coaching, feeding ice chips, and getting called awful names and taking shots to the head!! The dad is also sleeping at the hospital with the mom and baby, and the dad is up doing all the duties since mom is resting from a long and exhausting surgery...Now, I am not saying the dad deserves more credit...because I am not stupid enough to type something like that in a blog when 90% of my readers are women!! I would never suggest that also because its not true. But for recent dads like my brother, most of my friends (i said most!) and definitely ME, that were there (or will be there) for the labor and slept at the hospital on those God-awful window ledges, and put in their time during the whole process, well....I think some credit can be a good thing!
All this being said dads...it's time to step it up and earn some of the credit! It's like anything else...if you don't want to be labeled as a certain type of person, then you need to go out of your way to reverse those feelings! Dads, keep fighting the good fight, and maybe one day we will get a blurb in the "Welcome Baby" notifications....just maybe, but probably not!!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Baby Showers, Setbacks, and Update
I feel the need to apologize for the lack of blog activity recently, but to say it was pure laziness is not entirely true! I have had some medical issues and needed to go under the knife to repair a hernia that I got from shoveling, which is why i am about to begin raising a snow shoveler/grass cutter! All is well now and I am recovering just fine! I can not lift anything over 10 pounds for another 4 weeks or so, and Christine can not lift anything over 20...So we make quite the pair!
I have had surgery before, and i usually handle it very well - I mean, come on - you are in the best hands and professionals are in charge...what can go wrong! For some reason I turned into an emotion sap this time. Now, I know what you are all thinking - "Anthony, you are ALWAYS an emotional sap!" But, this time it was different! I was worried about going into surgery because there was a chance that if something went wrong that I would not be able to meet my son, and that had me completely bent out of shape! Now, hernia repair surgery is not open heart surgery - but things can happen! Anyway - I made it through, and now I am back to being a normal emotional sap!! Things are getting back to normal! I have to say that Christine was a trooper through the entire "Anthony is stealing my Spot light" moment! She was there to take care of me when i should have been taking care of her, and she was fantastic!
Since the last blog we have had 2 out of 3 Baby Showers! In our NY shower I didn't think we were going to be able to get everything home...in fact, we didn't! We needed my in-laws to drive some of it to MD when they came for the MD Family shower! After the MD Family shower we could not sit in our living room or dining room anymore...and then it hit me - I wont be sitting for a LONG TIME! I used to hear new parents complain that the kids' stuff was taking over their house, and i always thought to myself - "Then don't let it get to that point!!" i now know that you can't help it! You need the swing, the stroller, the travel system, the pack-n-play, the high chair, the glider, 750 bibs, 647 burp cloths, 234 stuffed animals, walkers, bouncy seats, and pacifiers to successfully have a kid! Thanks to help from both sets of parents, we are now able to live in the same space as our future child! i found that the main barrier to space is the boxes that all this stuff come in! I am pretty sure that we are going to have a cardboard and Styrofoam shortage in America if Babies R Us and friends keep packing baby things in boxes that are 45 times bigger than the actual item it contains! It took us longer to break down the boxes than it did to put everything together!
The nursery is complete!!! All of the crib accessories are set up, the monitors are in place, the rug is on the floor, the changing table is on the dresser, the letters and pictures are on the wall, and all it seems now that we need is Baby Kevin! I will attempt to put the video on here later.
Christine is doing great...33 weeks pregnant today and has not gained a single pound during the pregnancy! We found out that she has gestational diabetes and needs to follow a special diet. She has done so well with it and I could not be prouder! We have both recently lost weight because of all the diet stuff in the house! I think I am brushing my teeth with 100% wheat toothpaste, and using fat free toilet paper....that's how much is diet in the house!! The baby is now 4 pounds and 10 ounces, and is right on track. He is in the 56 percentile for weight, and appears to be a long one! They cant get an accurate reading on the length because he is all curled up! The doctor did say that he has "Scholarship Arms!" I am just hoping that the scholarship is a FULL ONE!
We are very excited, and also getting a little nervous. We had a child care class the other day where they successfully explained the top 15 ways your kid will choke, suffocate, or drown and the ways to "bring them back!" I lost about 5 years of my life watching the videos of these people talking about their kids choking, biting power cords, and falling in various water holes! I think I will actually be paying attention my child so I can rule a bunch of those video scenarios out! For example, "I was curling my hair, and the phone rang, so I looked at my 2 year old and said, Mommy will be right back - don't touch that!" Guess what?? He touched it! Shocker! Seriously though, it was good to get the CPR training, and i am glad that i know what to do in an emergency!
We also found out this passed week that Kevin is breached. He has until week 36 to flip into proper alignment or we will need to schedule a C-Section. We hope he flips, but either way we are comfortable with any decision that needs to be made! All in all things are going extremely well with the pregnancy and my wife has shown me that she is stronger than I ever imagined! We are counting down the days!! We are also still counting the people that tell us how tough having a baby is...I don't need the negativity folks - i am sure it will be tough - but I cant wait for the tough times because that means I am a Dad! BRING IT!
I have had surgery before, and i usually handle it very well - I mean, come on - you are in the best hands and professionals are in charge...what can go wrong! For some reason I turned into an emotion sap this time. Now, I know what you are all thinking - "Anthony, you are ALWAYS an emotional sap!" But, this time it was different! I was worried about going into surgery because there was a chance that if something went wrong that I would not be able to meet my son, and that had me completely bent out of shape! Now, hernia repair surgery is not open heart surgery - but things can happen! Anyway - I made it through, and now I am back to being a normal emotional sap!! Things are getting back to normal! I have to say that Christine was a trooper through the entire "Anthony is stealing my Spot light" moment! She was there to take care of me when i should have been taking care of her, and she was fantastic!
Since the last blog we have had 2 out of 3 Baby Showers! In our NY shower I didn't think we were going to be able to get everything home...in fact, we didn't! We needed my in-laws to drive some of it to MD when they came for the MD Family shower! After the MD Family shower we could not sit in our living room or dining room anymore...and then it hit me - I wont be sitting for a LONG TIME! I used to hear new parents complain that the kids' stuff was taking over their house, and i always thought to myself - "Then don't let it get to that point!!" i now know that you can't help it! You need the swing, the stroller, the travel system, the pack-n-play, the high chair, the glider, 750 bibs, 647 burp cloths, 234 stuffed animals, walkers, bouncy seats, and pacifiers to successfully have a kid! Thanks to help from both sets of parents, we are now able to live in the same space as our future child! i found that the main barrier to space is the boxes that all this stuff come in! I am pretty sure that we are going to have a cardboard and Styrofoam shortage in America if Babies R Us and friends keep packing baby things in boxes that are 45 times bigger than the actual item it contains! It took us longer to break down the boxes than it did to put everything together!
The nursery is complete!!! All of the crib accessories are set up, the monitors are in place, the rug is on the floor, the changing table is on the dresser, the letters and pictures are on the wall, and all it seems now that we need is Baby Kevin! I will attempt to put the video on here later.
Christine is doing great...33 weeks pregnant today and has not gained a single pound during the pregnancy! We found out that she has gestational diabetes and needs to follow a special diet. She has done so well with it and I could not be prouder! We have both recently lost weight because of all the diet stuff in the house! I think I am brushing my teeth with 100% wheat toothpaste, and using fat free toilet paper....that's how much is diet in the house!! The baby is now 4 pounds and 10 ounces, and is right on track. He is in the 56 percentile for weight, and appears to be a long one! They cant get an accurate reading on the length because he is all curled up! The doctor did say that he has "Scholarship Arms!" I am just hoping that the scholarship is a FULL ONE!
We are very excited, and also getting a little nervous. We had a child care class the other day where they successfully explained the top 15 ways your kid will choke, suffocate, or drown and the ways to "bring them back!" I lost about 5 years of my life watching the videos of these people talking about their kids choking, biting power cords, and falling in various water holes! I think I will actually be paying attention my child so I can rule a bunch of those video scenarios out! For example, "I was curling my hair, and the phone rang, so I looked at my 2 year old and said, Mommy will be right back - don't touch that!" Guess what?? He touched it! Shocker! Seriously though, it was good to get the CPR training, and i am glad that i know what to do in an emergency!
We also found out this passed week that Kevin is breached. He has until week 36 to flip into proper alignment or we will need to schedule a C-Section. We hope he flips, but either way we are comfortable with any decision that needs to be made! All in all things are going extremely well with the pregnancy and my wife has shown me that she is stronger than I ever imagined! We are counting down the days!! We are also still counting the people that tell us how tough having a baby is...I don't need the negativity folks - i am sure it will be tough - but I cant wait for the tough times because that means I am a Dad! BRING IT!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
3rd trimester!
I have often asked myself..."Anthony, why are you so different than some people?" To be specific, Why am I watching Survivor on Thursday nights instead of hanging at the bar with friends? Why do I watch the Bachelor, 24, Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, Amazing Race, The Apprentice, Awards Shows and various sitcoms religiously? Well, the honest answer that I have come up with is, "Because I want to!" I have never been the guy that needed to stay at the bar til close. or the guy that had to stay awake past 10:00pm, or the guy that had to do the things that everyone else did just to fit in! When I am tired - I sleep. If I am bored - I mix it up. Most importantly, If I am happy - I leave it alone! Now the question is - "Why am I saying all this??" - Well - because this baby process is the same! I have talked to so many people about the various stages in pregnancy from the guy's point of view. And MOST of the guys have very similar feelings....
1) They are happy about having a kid, but a freaked out by having a "Baby!" They want that kid to pop out with a back-pack on and head to the bus stop for 1st grade! They want the little baseball player from Day 1.
2) They would rather gouge out their eyes with wooden spoons than go and register for shower gifts....or they refuse to be a part of the shopping process all together!
3) They despise baby classes, and think it is an entire waste of time! These are the same guys, by the way, that do not stop and ask for directions on the road!
4) They want the epidural more than the woman! and in some cases - they need it more!
I think its always interesting to ask yourself what you think other people think about you from time to time. To be perfectly honest, most of the time I do not care what people think about me. But i would imagine that if I asked people to say 1 word that best describes me, TYPICAL or NORMAL would not be on the list! I have enjoyed every step so far and I plan to enjoy the rest!
Most of the guys i have talked to have a horror story about the first week when they bring the baby home! Now, let me start by saying that I am in no way saying that I won't have one myself...in fact my main point is that I am PLANNING on having a rough time that first week! I have heard, "I had no idea it would be like this" and "That kid did nothing but scream all night!" My main thought is....What did you think was going to happen?!! It's like a Best Man at a wedding not being prepared to give a speech...it's going to happen...Prepare yourself!! Now, I have also hear that i can't prepare for this sort of change. Well, let me try - I am not going to sleep, and i am going to be rocking and walking the baby all day and night...and when the baby does sleep I will be doing laundry and washing bottles and changing diapers! I cant wait, consider me prepared!
The classes and registering are actually pretty exciting for me. I liked registering for the wedding, and the baby stuff is even better! Getting stuck in the breast pump aisle wasn't my favorite, but it wasn't so bad! The classes are what you make of them. i can not tell you how many guys told me how TERRIBLE they were, and some of the guys in my classes look so miserable that they would sell their souls to get out of it! Well, I like knowing where to go, when to go there, and what to expect. I obviously understand that all the techniques we have learned may not go exactly as planned, and that my sweet, darling wife may grab me by the shirt and say some crazy things...but all in all the classes are pretty good!
I guess I am different, and not the normal guy when it comes to having a baby. That being said - I know a lot of guys that feel the way I do. After going through what Christine and I did to get pregnant I do not like the negativity associated with pregnancy. The truth is that we were blessed to even get pregnant...so when someone tells me the famous lines of "You have no idea what you're getting into...." or (my personal favorite) "You just wait...." I don't want to hear it...because I DON'T care how hard it is...To quote Tom Hanks in "A League of Their Own" - "The HARD is what makes it great!!" I can promise you 1 thing....you will never hear me complain about my son Kevin, or my sleepless nights, or ANYTHING...because I am just happy to have the opportunity and the privilege of being a dad....and I think more people should stop complaining and embrace it as well!
**Christine UPDATE - She is doing well and just entered the 3rd trimester! We have the first shower planned with family and friends in NY next week and a 3D ultrasound planned for when her parents come here next! We can't wait for our first glimpse of our little man!!!
1) They are happy about having a kid, but a freaked out by having a "Baby!" They want that kid to pop out with a back-pack on and head to the bus stop for 1st grade! They want the little baseball player from Day 1.
2) They would rather gouge out their eyes with wooden spoons than go and register for shower gifts....or they refuse to be a part of the shopping process all together!
3) They despise baby classes, and think it is an entire waste of time! These are the same guys, by the way, that do not stop and ask for directions on the road!
4) They want the epidural more than the woman! and in some cases - they need it more!
I think its always interesting to ask yourself what you think other people think about you from time to time. To be perfectly honest, most of the time I do not care what people think about me. But i would imagine that if I asked people to say 1 word that best describes me, TYPICAL or NORMAL would not be on the list! I have enjoyed every step so far and I plan to enjoy the rest!
Most of the guys i have talked to have a horror story about the first week when they bring the baby home! Now, let me start by saying that I am in no way saying that I won't have one myself...in fact my main point is that I am PLANNING on having a rough time that first week! I have heard, "I had no idea it would be like this" and "That kid did nothing but scream all night!" My main thought is....What did you think was going to happen?!! It's like a Best Man at a wedding not being prepared to give a speech...it's going to happen...Prepare yourself!! Now, I have also hear that i can't prepare for this sort of change. Well, let me try - I am not going to sleep, and i am going to be rocking and walking the baby all day and night...and when the baby does sleep I will be doing laundry and washing bottles and changing diapers! I cant wait, consider me prepared!
The classes and registering are actually pretty exciting for me. I liked registering for the wedding, and the baby stuff is even better! Getting stuck in the breast pump aisle wasn't my favorite, but it wasn't so bad! The classes are what you make of them. i can not tell you how many guys told me how TERRIBLE they were, and some of the guys in my classes look so miserable that they would sell their souls to get out of it! Well, I like knowing where to go, when to go there, and what to expect. I obviously understand that all the techniques we have learned may not go exactly as planned, and that my sweet, darling wife may grab me by the shirt and say some crazy things...but all in all the classes are pretty good!
I guess I am different, and not the normal guy when it comes to having a baby. That being said - I know a lot of guys that feel the way I do. After going through what Christine and I did to get pregnant I do not like the negativity associated with pregnancy. The truth is that we were blessed to even get pregnant...so when someone tells me the famous lines of "You have no idea what you're getting into...." or (my personal favorite) "You just wait...." I don't want to hear it...because I DON'T care how hard it is...To quote Tom Hanks in "A League of Their Own" - "The HARD is what makes it great!!" I can promise you 1 thing....you will never hear me complain about my son Kevin, or my sleepless nights, or ANYTHING...because I am just happy to have the opportunity and the privilege of being a dad....and I think more people should stop complaining and embrace it as well!
**Christine UPDATE - She is doing well and just entered the 3rd trimester! We have the first shower planned with family and friends in NY next week and a 3D ultrasound planned for when her parents come here next! We can't wait for our first glimpse of our little man!!!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Timber and Snow
Well - here we are...on the cusp of 25 weeks into the pregnancy and things are still rolling along. We had a bit of a scare last week when Christine fell while teaching. She fell on her knees and was not hurt, so we didn't think it was a big issue! Wow - we were wrong...Apparently whenever a pregnant woman slips they should call their doctor to see if it harmed the baby at all. In fact the doctors said that even if you don't fall to the ground (just a slight slip) you should be checked out!
Everything went well when Christine got checked out...In fact she was more into the fact that she got to wear a hospital bracelet! This was her first trip to the hospital since she was 6 years old! My mom went to the hospital with her (thanks Mom) since it wasn't an immediate emergency, and she was excited because she got to hear the baby's heartbeat for 45 minutes! So all in all Christine got her bracelet and mom got to hear the baby and Dad (me) was stuck at work freaking out and waiting to hear some news!
We have signed up for baby classes and I am actually excited about them...well, I am now - I'm sure that will wear off about the first hour or so into it! I am not downplaying the importance of the classes...in fact, I think it will answer some of the questions we have and put us at ease to some point. Its funny what people say based on their experiences during every aspect of this adventure, and as I have said before everyone has an opinion. But, most of the dads i know have been pretty consistent about the grossness of the videos i will be seeing here in the next couple of months! In fact, almost all of them said that the videos were more horrifying than the actual even because you are not tied emotionally to the video...I find this funny because lately Christine is tied emotionally to everything,,,videos included! So, it may be different for her!! Dan Jansen (former Olympian) is featured on a commercial now where he promised his sister he would win a Gold medal for her in the 98 Games...He fell in his pursuit and she dies shortly after. Then it pans to him winning the Gold years later and skating a victory lap with his daughter that is named after his sister...Christine cries at this commercial EVERY time! It is a touching commercial, but normally emotions will die off after some time...not for her!
SNOW, SNOW, and more SNOW...One of the biggest snow storms just hit MD and one constant question kept coming up..."what is it going to be like in here with a baby?" Most of the questions Christine asks are not ones that can be answered! I think its sort of like a "Keep Anthony on his Toes" game...but this one really got to me....Because I have no idea!! My friend Matt told me that no one can tell you what to imagine, you just roll with it as it comes...and I think that's what we will have to do. But, I can tell you that no matter how it is with Baby Kevin here, it will be great! As the clothes and toys start piling up and our registry gets smaller we are both getting more and more excited! Stay warm and dry!
Everything went well when Christine got checked out...In fact she was more into the fact that she got to wear a hospital bracelet! This was her first trip to the hospital since she was 6 years old! My mom went to the hospital with her (thanks Mom) since it wasn't an immediate emergency, and she was excited because she got to hear the baby's heartbeat for 45 minutes! So all in all Christine got her bracelet and mom got to hear the baby and Dad (me) was stuck at work freaking out and waiting to hear some news!
We have signed up for baby classes and I am actually excited about them...well, I am now - I'm sure that will wear off about the first hour or so into it! I am not downplaying the importance of the classes...in fact, I think it will answer some of the questions we have and put us at ease to some point. Its funny what people say based on their experiences during every aspect of this adventure, and as I have said before everyone has an opinion. But, most of the dads i know have been pretty consistent about the grossness of the videos i will be seeing here in the next couple of months! In fact, almost all of them said that the videos were more horrifying than the actual even because you are not tied emotionally to the video...I find this funny because lately Christine is tied emotionally to everything,,,videos included! So, it may be different for her!! Dan Jansen (former Olympian) is featured on a commercial now where he promised his sister he would win a Gold medal for her in the 98 Games...He fell in his pursuit and she dies shortly after. Then it pans to him winning the Gold years later and skating a victory lap with his daughter that is named after his sister...Christine cries at this commercial EVERY time! It is a touching commercial, but normally emotions will die off after some time...not for her!
SNOW, SNOW, and more SNOW...One of the biggest snow storms just hit MD and one constant question kept coming up..."what is it going to be like in here with a baby?" Most of the questions Christine asks are not ones that can be answered! I think its sort of like a "Keep Anthony on his Toes" game...but this one really got to me....Because I have no idea!! My friend Matt told me that no one can tell you what to imagine, you just roll with it as it comes...and I think that's what we will have to do. But, I can tell you that no matter how it is with Baby Kevin here, it will be great! As the clothes and toys start piling up and our registry gets smaller we are both getting more and more excited! Stay warm and dry!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
What did our Parents do??
This whole pregnancy thing has made me wonder what it was like when our parents were in our shoes!! I mean, think about it...there was no Internet, no parent books, less restrictions and we all turned out just fine!! well...most of us! As far I know our moms walked around pregnant with cigarettes in their mouths and a shot of Jack in their hand!! Ok, that is a little over-reaction...but, today if a pregnant woman is within 100 miles of a lit cigarette people dive on her like the secret service does on the President if shots are fired!
On the flip-side I do like the baby books. I think its good to be prepared for certain situations, but seriously some of these chapters could be left out!! If you are pregnant and you think it's ok to drink and smoke and snort lines of cocaine you have bigger issues than worrying about your baby's health! Where do these people come from! Who is getting ready to drink a lemon-drop shot and is suddenly stopped by the future baby daddy because he just "read" that its not cool!
The Internet is something that I could go either way on when it comes to baby stuff...I say its cool to google about what is going on with your child during pregnancy...like what it weighs at week 22, or that it starts to urinate inside the mom at week 12...some of that stuff is cool! However, the fact that you can easily google: "EVERYTHING that can go wrong with pregnancy" is a bit much!! The hormones are crazy enough Mr. Internet...Thanks a lot!!
Another thing that has changed in this generation are registries for the baby! I mean, I am pretty sure that most of us drank from a bottle that was warmed by it being placed in a pan of boiling water!! Not my baby though! No, our little guy will be sipping on a bottle warmed by a "bottle warmer!" I refused to buy the "wipe warmer" because we are not raising a pre-Madonna here, and he can deal with a cold wipe now and again...besides it is very refreshing! Re-calls makes registering as difficult as figuring out who killed Kennedy! If you REALLY REALLY like something, there is a good chance it will be re-called! its a good way to keep us on our toes!!
So, after a blog like this I guess I need to give you all my opinions. Whether you were one of our parents or living in this generation, you have all you need to be a good parent inside you! I think all the technology and resources we have around us now are good, but not necessary. I believe that we all have instincts and a parental knowledge that will leak out when the time is right! Everyone has an opinion on how a child should be raised....but ultimately, your own way is probably the best!
ps...I can not imagine how many stroller options there will be once our kids start having kids...Babies R Us will have to be as big BJ's! I mean, the breast pump section already takes up an aisle and a half!
On the flip-side I do like the baby books. I think its good to be prepared for certain situations, but seriously some of these chapters could be left out!! If you are pregnant and you think it's ok to drink and smoke and snort lines of cocaine you have bigger issues than worrying about your baby's health! Where do these people come from! Who is getting ready to drink a lemon-drop shot and is suddenly stopped by the future baby daddy because he just "read" that its not cool!
The Internet is something that I could go either way on when it comes to baby stuff...I say its cool to google about what is going on with your child during pregnancy...like what it weighs at week 22, or that it starts to urinate inside the mom at week 12...some of that stuff is cool! However, the fact that you can easily google: "EVERYTHING that can go wrong with pregnancy" is a bit much!! The hormones are crazy enough Mr. Internet...Thanks a lot!!
Another thing that has changed in this generation are registries for the baby! I mean, I am pretty sure that most of us drank from a bottle that was warmed by it being placed in a pan of boiling water!! Not my baby though! No, our little guy will be sipping on a bottle warmed by a "bottle warmer!" I refused to buy the "wipe warmer" because we are not raising a pre-Madonna here, and he can deal with a cold wipe now and again...besides it is very refreshing! Re-calls makes registering as difficult as figuring out who killed Kennedy! If you REALLY REALLY like something, there is a good chance it will be re-called! its a good way to keep us on our toes!!
So, after a blog like this I guess I need to give you all my opinions. Whether you were one of our parents or living in this generation, you have all you need to be a good parent inside you! I think all the technology and resources we have around us now are good, but not necessary. I believe that we all have instincts and a parental knowledge that will leak out when the time is right! Everyone has an opinion on how a child should be raised....but ultimately, your own way is probably the best!
ps...I can not imagine how many stroller options there will be once our kids start having kids...Babies R Us will have to be as big BJ's! I mean, the breast pump section already takes up an aisle and a half!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The Mount Trend Continues
It has now been a little over a week since Christine and I had our 20 week appointment and sonogram! Each time I have sat down to write this blog entry I have stopped because I wanted to capture everything on 1 entry...since this is big news!! As for the title of this entry...All of Christine's friends from Mount Saint Mary's have had boys....5 Boys...and we make #6!!!
I'm not quite sure if I have ever had a stranger day in all my life. The anticipation of finding out whether we were having a son or daughter was nerve racking! Not only were we curious of the gender, we were waiting to hear that our baby was healthy! Prior to this appointment we had not heard the heartbeat for 8 weeks...and if that doesn't seem like a long time - it felt like an eternity! Luckily, the first thing they did when we went into the back was let us hear the beat of the heart...This appointment is a lot different than the rest...they go through and show you every part of the baby. The heart was so cool to see. We could see all 4 chambers and that everything was functioning properly. Our baby was actually looking like a baby. 8 weeks before this I swear it looked like a sea creature! A cute sea creature, but a sea creature none the less!!
Of course, as a guy, I was really focused one 1 thing after I saw the heart...and I bet I don't need to elaborate!! Of course, the tech went to every other area of the baby first, and made me sweat it out! I mean, I'm glad my child has functioning kidneys and a good brain...but COME ON ALREADY!!! When we finally got to "the area" I began to get really nervous...and of course the baby's legs were crosses and pinned together...so, we had to go count the toes before coming back - and YES, there were 10!
When the tech ventured back up to check the gender it was "obvious" to the tech that it was a BOY! I am not really sure what happened after this, except that I cried like a little girl...and so did Christine!! I would have been more than happy with a girl, but I'm not going to lie - I was going for a boy all the way!!
The name is going to Kevin James Davis (after our fathers), and truthfully this is probably the main reason for my tears. Not to be extremely mushy or redundant on this blog, but I feel extremely bless to honor my father this way. I have always said that my Dad is my hero in life (along with my mother). I have never known a better man, and I probably never will. I am so ready to be a father to my baby boy because of my relationship with my dad. I cant wait to play catch with him, take him to ball games, watch reality TV with him (haha), and just be there for him like my dad was there for me! I can not wait to be involved in his life...being a father, and a coach in life!
During my rehearsal dinner for our wedding, I told my parents - "You didn't always give me everything I ever wanted...but you always gave me everything I ever needed..." And, Kevin - I promise to be there for you always and give you all the love and guidance you require just like my parents did for me. I will try to live up to this motto during your life and never take 1 day for granted. You will truly be a gift to your mom and I and am so looking forward to meeting you...and looking forward to being a Dad! The day you are born will be the day that I can honestly say that I am living my dream...because all I have ever wanted was to be a dad, and I have been waiting all my life to meet you!
I'm not quite sure if I have ever had a stranger day in all my life. The anticipation of finding out whether we were having a son or daughter was nerve racking! Not only were we curious of the gender, we were waiting to hear that our baby was healthy! Prior to this appointment we had not heard the heartbeat for 8 weeks...and if that doesn't seem like a long time - it felt like an eternity! Luckily, the first thing they did when we went into the back was let us hear the beat of the heart...This appointment is a lot different than the rest...they go through and show you every part of the baby. The heart was so cool to see. We could see all 4 chambers and that everything was functioning properly. Our baby was actually looking like a baby. 8 weeks before this I swear it looked like a sea creature! A cute sea creature, but a sea creature none the less!!
Of course, as a guy, I was really focused one 1 thing after I saw the heart...and I bet I don't need to elaborate!! Of course, the tech went to every other area of the baby first, and made me sweat it out! I mean, I'm glad my child has functioning kidneys and a good brain...but COME ON ALREADY!!! When we finally got to "the area" I began to get really nervous...and of course the baby's legs were crosses and pinned together...so, we had to go count the toes before coming back - and YES, there were 10!
When the tech ventured back up to check the gender it was "obvious" to the tech that it was a BOY! I am not really sure what happened after this, except that I cried like a little girl...and so did Christine!! I would have been more than happy with a girl, but I'm not going to lie - I was going for a boy all the way!!
The name is going to Kevin James Davis (after our fathers), and truthfully this is probably the main reason for my tears. Not to be extremely mushy or redundant on this blog, but I feel extremely bless to honor my father this way. I have always said that my Dad is my hero in life (along with my mother). I have never known a better man, and I probably never will. I am so ready to be a father to my baby boy because of my relationship with my dad. I cant wait to play catch with him, take him to ball games, watch reality TV with him (haha), and just be there for him like my dad was there for me! I can not wait to be involved in his life...being a father, and a coach in life!
During my rehearsal dinner for our wedding, I told my parents - "You didn't always give me everything I ever wanted...but you always gave me everything I ever needed..." And, Kevin - I promise to be there for you always and give you all the love and guidance you require just like my parents did for me. I will try to live up to this motto during your life and never take 1 day for granted. You will truly be a gift to your mom and I and am so looking forward to meeting you...and looking forward to being a Dad! The day you are born will be the day that I can honestly say that I am living my dream...because all I have ever wanted was to be a dad, and I have been waiting all my life to meet you!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
One More Week!!
Sorry for the long gap between entries...but there has not been that much happening...Well, a lot of little things are happening, just nothing major!! Overall, I think its a good thing that there is nothing major going on at this stage! We are now just 1 week away from finding out if we are going to have a boy or a girl...and I am so very excited!!
First, the little things that are going on...We have received the family bassinet!! Brad and Heather called and told us that Molly is finished with the bassinet, so it is now in the nursery! Some of you are probably saying, "so what, its just a bassinet!!" Well, for sappy family guys like me this bassinet means much more! Everyone that has been placed in the bassinet is written on the bottom and it is really cool for me to continue the tradition. We are now also starting to get Christmas gifts for the baby...i knew it would be pretty cool to get these things, but I didn't think it would be this great!! I like opening stuff for the baby more than stuff for me! We got a cool Ravens one-sie and hat, and a toy chest with a bunch of toys so far! I'm sure there is more of this coming with our trip to NY on the horizon!
Christine is still feeling fantastic, which apparently means that we are having a boy! Do I believe that when people say it? No, but any signs that point to boy I usually think are accurate! I have been giving a lot of thought to the boy/girl question lately, and by a lot I mean NON-STOP...and i have to say I have imagined it both ways. We can find out the sex on December 29th which is next Tuesday!!! Needless to say we are very excited, and anxious to get the results. We cant wait to call the baby by name; instead of Baby Davis! We have picked out names, and we are set for either gender. For a boy we are going with Kevin James (after our fathers), and for a girl we are going with Meghan Elizabeth. So, there it is!! You are all in the loop on the names! Next week around 2pm we will be posting the results either on this blog or on facebook - probably on both! I will be crying either way...either because I will be having a daddy's girl, or my little boy! Keep the prayers coming for a healthy baby, at this point that is all that matters!
I would also like to take this time to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season. I would also like to acknowledge friends with family members and/or friends that are fighting for our country overseas. I am very happy to report that my friend Gina welcomed her brother home from the war this week. Gina, Dom truly is a hero, and I am happy that you and your family can celebrate with him this Christmas! Please give him all of our heartfelt thanks and love. Spend as much time with your family as possible this holiday folks - Family is everything, without it - we are nothing!! See ya next week, I cant wait to blog some more good news!!
First, the little things that are going on...We have received the family bassinet!! Brad and Heather called and told us that Molly is finished with the bassinet, so it is now in the nursery! Some of you are probably saying, "so what, its just a bassinet!!" Well, for sappy family guys like me this bassinet means much more! Everyone that has been placed in the bassinet is written on the bottom and it is really cool for me to continue the tradition. We are now also starting to get Christmas gifts for the baby...i knew it would be pretty cool to get these things, but I didn't think it would be this great!! I like opening stuff for the baby more than stuff for me! We got a cool Ravens one-sie and hat, and a toy chest with a bunch of toys so far! I'm sure there is more of this coming with our trip to NY on the horizon!
Christine is still feeling fantastic, which apparently means that we are having a boy! Do I believe that when people say it? No, but any signs that point to boy I usually think are accurate! I have been giving a lot of thought to the boy/girl question lately, and by a lot I mean NON-STOP...and i have to say I have imagined it both ways. We can find out the sex on December 29th which is next Tuesday!!! Needless to say we are very excited, and anxious to get the results. We cant wait to call the baby by name; instead of Baby Davis! We have picked out names, and we are set for either gender. For a boy we are going with Kevin James (after our fathers), and for a girl we are going with Meghan Elizabeth. So, there it is!! You are all in the loop on the names! Next week around 2pm we will be posting the results either on this blog or on facebook - probably on both! I will be crying either way...either because I will be having a daddy's girl, or my little boy! Keep the prayers coming for a healthy baby, at this point that is all that matters!
I would also like to take this time to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season. I would also like to acknowledge friends with family members and/or friends that are fighting for our country overseas. I am very happy to report that my friend Gina welcomed her brother home from the war this week. Gina, Dom truly is a hero, and I am happy that you and your family can celebrate with him this Christmas! Please give him all of our heartfelt thanks and love. Spend as much time with your family as possible this holiday folks - Family is everything, without it - we are nothing!! See ya next week, I cant wait to blog some more good news!!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Getting Hit (not what you think....yet)
So, I have learned quickly that things "hit you" at different times during pregnancy. No, I am not talking about Christine punching and knocking me out - although that could be coming...I am referring to those moments where you realize what is about to happen in life. Hearing the heartbeat was one of those moments, seeing it was another, and now putting up Christmas decorations has "hit me!" This will be the last Christmas that I will have without a child...and I get to be Santa next year! I know, this stuff sounds so weird and almost non-masculine...but I'm sorry, I am soaking it all in here! It's never a bad thing when you are true to yourself and true to who you are when expressing feelings. At least, that's what I was taught!
Christine has continued her fantastic pregnancy and has still not felt sick! Most of our friends seem to give her a bad look when she says this stuff because they refer back to their pregnancy woes. But, she really enjoys being preggo...and for a husband that is a good thing! We are both really looking forward to December 29th to find out what we are going to have. A lot of you think we are going to continue the Mount Saint Mary's trend and have a boy....for those of you that don't know what that is - let me explain. Christine has many great friends from the Mount, and so far 4 of them have had a child.....ALL BOYS! The 5th, is due at any moment, is a BOY! So Christine will either break the streak, or keep it alive! Personally, I am not really interested in all these boys having an interested in my daughter (if I have a girl that is) for a prom date. I would like it, however, if my BOY joined some of the other boys on the Calvert Hall Football Team....see where i am going with this?? And if it is a boy..i already saw about 1,000 things to be at the CHC school store! I would also be a happy father if i had a daughter...she would be a nun, but i would be very proud of my nun! Feel free to post away with what you think we will have...its always fun to hear the responses!
In closing, I just want to say that I am fully appreciative of all the comments and words of encouragement I have received about writing this blog. Some of the personal messages and facebook comments I have received have really touched me, and in some cases have brought a tear to my eye. I am not writing just to get a reaction, or say things just because they sound good. All that appears in this blog comes directly from my feelings...that's the only way I know! I have always wore my heart on my sleeve, and I mean everything i write...I honestly could not be happier at this point in my life. So, thank you to all of you who have taken the time to write me - and please...keep reading!
Christine has continued her fantastic pregnancy and has still not felt sick! Most of our friends seem to give her a bad look when she says this stuff because they refer back to their pregnancy woes. But, she really enjoys being preggo...and for a husband that is a good thing! We are both really looking forward to December 29th to find out what we are going to have. A lot of you think we are going to continue the Mount Saint Mary's trend and have a boy....for those of you that don't know what that is - let me explain. Christine has many great friends from the Mount, and so far 4 of them have had a child.....ALL BOYS! The 5th, is due at any moment, is a BOY! So Christine will either break the streak, or keep it alive! Personally, I am not really interested in all these boys having an interested in my daughter (if I have a girl that is) for a prom date. I would like it, however, if my BOY joined some of the other boys on the Calvert Hall Football Team....see where i am going with this?? And if it is a boy..i already saw about 1,000 things to be at the CHC school store! I would also be a happy father if i had a daughter...she would be a nun, but i would be very proud of my nun! Feel free to post away with what you think we will have...its always fun to hear the responses!
In closing, I just want to say that I am fully appreciative of all the comments and words of encouragement I have received about writing this blog. Some of the personal messages and facebook comments I have received have really touched me, and in some cases have brought a tear to my eye. I am not writing just to get a reaction, or say things just because they sound good. All that appears in this blog comes directly from my feelings...that's the only way I know! I have always wore my heart on my sleeve, and I mean everything i write...I honestly could not be happier at this point in my life. So, thank you to all of you who have taken the time to write me - and please...keep reading!
Monday, November 23, 2009
14 Weeks
You know you are excited for your child to arrive when you are so excited that they can now produce urine!! That's right folks - my child can now produce urine and pee!! It's been a couple weeks since my last blog, because honestly there is not a lot that is changing! Christine is moving along nicely and without sickness...and this is good for her and even better for me! You hear all the horror stories..."Just wait man...she is going to start flipping out on you, and getting sick everywhere!" Truthfully, she has only snapped at me when I have given her a good reason to do so!
We have started to search for the essentials, and the not so essentials for the baby! By essentials I mean: Crib, Dresser, Rocker, Changing table, etc. The furniture is the big ticket stuff that needs to be addressed!! By non-essentials I mean the stuff we have filling part of the Baby Room already! That "baby room" by the way, has once been called the "wedding room" (used to stuff all our extra items from the wedding in 2007), and then "the Everything we don't have anywhere else to put" room! The room has successfully been cleaned out and now is suitable for a baby! TOT SWAP...2 words that every expectant father has heard, and the origin on the non-essential stuff we have acquired! Don't get me wrong...I know eventually we are going to need a dog that talks about numbers and the alphabet and laughs when you touch its red nose...but we don't need it NOW! The best part about this is that all guys have heard the same thing..."But it was on sale!!" I swear women will buy anything if its on sale! Christine had a budget of $50 for the TOT Swap a month ago...I told her that we will be getting a lot for our Baby Showers (3 of them) and we don't really need to spend money yet! The night was a success for Christine, but not so much for the budget...she spent $98!
Cleaning out the room was no easy task. Christine and I both had a vision of how that process would go, but I soon realized that mine was simply a vision, and in now way resembling a plan of action! It is amazing too me how much "stuff" you can acquire in 2-3 years...and I am sure it only gets worse from here!
The new developments are that we now know the date where we can find out if we are having a boy or a girl - December 29th!!! and YES, we are finding out...I know, I know - Its a natural surprise that life gives you and we should not find out...and, "Back in the day we couldn't find out so we were surprised!" Well, I look at it this way...Back in the day you could not take Tylenol for a head ache because there was no Tylenol...So I'm taking my Tylenol, and if they can "surprise" me on December 29th and let me know what we are having...I'm all IN! It will still be a surprise, just 5 months early, and I am OK with that! We also have the names ready to go WAY ahead of schedule, but we have always really had our names we liked. I will let you know those later!
Have a safe, Happy, and Healthy Holiday this week, and make sure to spend as much time with your family as possible. Family is what it's all about, so enjoy each other....and as always: GO HALL!! BEAT THE DONS!
We have started to search for the essentials, and the not so essentials for the baby! By essentials I mean: Crib, Dresser, Rocker, Changing table, etc. The furniture is the big ticket stuff that needs to be addressed!! By non-essentials I mean the stuff we have filling part of the Baby Room already! That "baby room" by the way, has once been called the "wedding room" (used to stuff all our extra items from the wedding in 2007), and then "the Everything we don't have anywhere else to put" room! The room has successfully been cleaned out and now is suitable for a baby! TOT SWAP...2 words that every expectant father has heard, and the origin on the non-essential stuff we have acquired! Don't get me wrong...I know eventually we are going to need a dog that talks about numbers and the alphabet and laughs when you touch its red nose...but we don't need it NOW! The best part about this is that all guys have heard the same thing..."But it was on sale!!" I swear women will buy anything if its on sale! Christine had a budget of $50 for the TOT Swap a month ago...I told her that we will be getting a lot for our Baby Showers (3 of them) and we don't really need to spend money yet! The night was a success for Christine, but not so much for the budget...she spent $98!
Cleaning out the room was no easy task. Christine and I both had a vision of how that process would go, but I soon realized that mine was simply a vision, and in now way resembling a plan of action! It is amazing too me how much "stuff" you can acquire in 2-3 years...and I am sure it only gets worse from here!
The new developments are that we now know the date where we can find out if we are having a boy or a girl - December 29th!!! and YES, we are finding out...I know, I know - Its a natural surprise that life gives you and we should not find out...and, "Back in the day we couldn't find out so we were surprised!" Well, I look at it this way...Back in the day you could not take Tylenol for a head ache because there was no Tylenol...So I'm taking my Tylenol, and if they can "surprise" me on December 29th and let me know what we are having...I'm all IN! It will still be a surprise, just 5 months early, and I am OK with that! We also have the names ready to go WAY ahead of schedule, but we have always really had our names we liked. I will let you know those later!
Have a safe, Happy, and Healthy Holiday this week, and make sure to spend as much time with your family as possible. Family is what it's all about, so enjoy each other....and as always: GO HALL!! BEAT THE DONS!
Monday, November 9, 2009
The Heartbeat That Changed Everything
The best advice or "words of wisdom" I have received so far came from my friend Matt...He told me that no matter what I hear, nothing can prepare me for whatever is coming my way. He said that no matter what people tell me about certain experiences through this process, they will all be so different to me. He has been so right, and I would imagine this trend will continue!!
For those of you that know my wife and I personally, you know that we have had to overcome many obstacles to get pregnant. The entire process to me has been more amazing and life-changing than I can possibly describe on this blog. I am a better person already because of my child that has not even taken a breath...and to me that is completely amazing. I learned at an early age that things in life are not guaranteed, or promised. Times like these in our lives we can only classify as gifts. My wife and I are truly grateful for our gift.
As stated in previous blogs, early pregnancy can be scary! There are the medical issues that can happen, but I am focusing more on the "real-world" end..."How can we afford this baby? How can we pay for daycare? Will we be able to be the parents our parents were/are to us?" Well, today all that was put to rest. it was as if someone waived a magic wand over us...in truth it was waived over my wife's stomach. As we walked into the doctor office today we had all of this on our minds....We left with nothing but smiles and a sense that everything was going to be alright, no matter what!
Our doctor entered the room and greeted us in the most cheerful way possible...She was incredible and genuinely excited for us. Capital Women's Care has been nothing but fantastic. They are "all smiles" from the secretaries, to the nurses, to the doctors....they are all truly invested in their field and completely involved in their patients life, and it is very inspiring. their practice consists of 5 doctors. Each time you go to the office you see a different doctor, so that on the day of delivery you can be comfortable with any of the doctors that are on call. This would eliminate any "Knocked Up" Hollywood moments, where their doctor was on vacation and they didn't know the doctor. These doctors that we are seeing act as if they understand how important each piece of the process is to their patients. As a sales rep, maybe I can take a page from their book and act as if I understand that each time a new customer comes in to buy their first mobile office, I should take a vested interest! These professionals take the time to make you feel important during their part in the "gift" of life, which is so inspiring since they do it thousands of times!
Today was so much different than other appointments...we actually could hear the life emerging from my wife. When the doctor put the stethoscope to my ears and I heard my child's heart beating I swear that all my worries of life (money, stress, etc.) melted away with each tear as it rolled off my cheek. I remember saying to myself: "No matter what, I will be there for my child, and everything will be fine...The money will be there when it needs to, and all that matters is that I will be there for my family!" I also thought about the fact that I have always been a family man...I love my mom and dad and my brothers, and I am so proud of our family. Well, it dawned on me today that I don't only have that family....I am going to have my own! I have my lovely wife and now I am going to bring another life into our circle. It finally hit me: I am going to be a dad!
Many people judge and measure their lives on different levels....some things make people "tick" more that others, and that's life. Not to brag, but I live and lead an amazing life. I have an amazing family, I went to my dream high school, graduated from college, got my Masters degree, have bought 2 house, and married an amazing woman. All of these things would be enough for a lot of people...not for me. My life will be complete when my child is born...All I have ever wanted to be was a father, and I am truly grateful and amazed that this is about to complete my life! I want to experience it all...the good times, and the bad times. The homeruns on the diamond and the bad Parent Teacher Conferences! I want it all!! I want to be there for my child like my parents were for me, and it is my only goal in life moving forward!
I'm sorry I dropped a bit of a sappy blog here, but I said I would tell you what was on my mind. I will forever remember the happenings of this day and apply it to my life always...because today I learned that all my dreams would come true, and as long as I put my wife and child first - the rest will fall into place. I don't need the money, the cars, the fame, or the fortune - -I just need my family, and it all started with a heartbeat.
For those of you that know my wife and I personally, you know that we have had to overcome many obstacles to get pregnant. The entire process to me has been more amazing and life-changing than I can possibly describe on this blog. I am a better person already because of my child that has not even taken a breath...and to me that is completely amazing. I learned at an early age that things in life are not guaranteed, or promised. Times like these in our lives we can only classify as gifts. My wife and I are truly grateful for our gift.
As stated in previous blogs, early pregnancy can be scary! There are the medical issues that can happen, but I am focusing more on the "real-world" end..."How can we afford this baby? How can we pay for daycare? Will we be able to be the parents our parents were/are to us?" Well, today all that was put to rest. it was as if someone waived a magic wand over us...in truth it was waived over my wife's stomach. As we walked into the doctor office today we had all of this on our minds....We left with nothing but smiles and a sense that everything was going to be alright, no matter what!
Our doctor entered the room and greeted us in the most cheerful way possible...She was incredible and genuinely excited for us. Capital Women's Care has been nothing but fantastic. They are "all smiles" from the secretaries, to the nurses, to the doctors....they are all truly invested in their field and completely involved in their patients life, and it is very inspiring. their practice consists of 5 doctors. Each time you go to the office you see a different doctor, so that on the day of delivery you can be comfortable with any of the doctors that are on call. This would eliminate any "Knocked Up" Hollywood moments, where their doctor was on vacation and they didn't know the doctor. These doctors that we are seeing act as if they understand how important each piece of the process is to their patients. As a sales rep, maybe I can take a page from their book and act as if I understand that each time a new customer comes in to buy their first mobile office, I should take a vested interest! These professionals take the time to make you feel important during their part in the "gift" of life, which is so inspiring since they do it thousands of times!
Today was so much different than other appointments...we actually could hear the life emerging from my wife. When the doctor put the stethoscope to my ears and I heard my child's heart beating I swear that all my worries of life (money, stress, etc.) melted away with each tear as it rolled off my cheek. I remember saying to myself: "No matter what, I will be there for my child, and everything will be fine...The money will be there when it needs to, and all that matters is that I will be there for my family!" I also thought about the fact that I have always been a family man...I love my mom and dad and my brothers, and I am so proud of our family. Well, it dawned on me today that I don't only have that family....I am going to have my own! I have my lovely wife and now I am going to bring another life into our circle. It finally hit me: I am going to be a dad!
Many people judge and measure their lives on different levels....some things make people "tick" more that others, and that's life. Not to brag, but I live and lead an amazing life. I have an amazing family, I went to my dream high school, graduated from college, got my Masters degree, have bought 2 house, and married an amazing woman. All of these things would be enough for a lot of people...not for me. My life will be complete when my child is born...All I have ever wanted to be was a father, and I am truly grateful and amazed that this is about to complete my life! I want to experience it all...the good times, and the bad times. The homeruns on the diamond and the bad Parent Teacher Conferences! I want it all!! I want to be there for my child like my parents were for me, and it is my only goal in life moving forward!
I'm sorry I dropped a bit of a sappy blog here, but I said I would tell you what was on my mind. I will forever remember the happenings of this day and apply it to my life always...because today I learned that all my dreams would come true, and as long as I put my wife and child first - the rest will fall into place. I don't need the money, the cars, the fame, or the fortune - -I just need my family, and it all started with a heartbeat.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
All By Myself
During the work week it seems that couples only see each other for a few hours a day. There are those few moments in the morning while getting ready for work, watching the news, and grabbing a breakfast bar on the way out the door....And those few hours at night for dinner and unwinding...Let's face it - Most of us work until 4 or 5 and then don't get home until 5 or 6...So the time spent together in the evening is limited...Well, when you get pregnant the time seems to diminish A LOT!!
One of the first signs of pregnancy is fatigue...Well, if by fatigue you mean acting like you were hit in the head with a tack hammer whenever you are at a rested state, then my wife is all over it! I swear I have never seen a person fall asleep so fast in my life...Once her glasses hit the night stand, it's all over! It's like she is turning a switch from awake to sleep! Normally this is a pretty good thing...Many people would love to fall asleep so easily...Well - she does this at 7:45pm...When you don't make the end of Wheel of Fortune I think you have issues!!
So, what have I done with all the down time?? Most of the nights I have taken full advantage of being in control of my TV destiny and falling asleep to sports on the tube without anyone telling me to "put something else on," or to "find something we both want to watch!" Guys - isn't it funny when they say that! I mean, they should just say, "Can we watch what I want?" - because that's what they mean! Anyway - there are also the nights where I fall asleep really early too! When there is nothing on TV (normally Wednesday nights) and I am finished harvesting my crops on Farmville (my newest vice), I figure there is nothing to do, so I sleep!
When you are married there are those times when you just say to yourself...."LEAVE ME ALONE!!" Obviously, this can be said by the husband or wife, and I think it should be said more freely...We all need our down time....But this pregnancy stuff gets a little ridiculous! Its like someone is saying, "Sleep now, because you wont know what sleep is like later!" But, how can i sleep when there is Anthony TV on all night!!!!
We are now almost 11 weeks along and entering the end of our first tri-mester! Crazy how fast time flies...especially for Christine...She has slept through most of it! HA HA!
One of the first signs of pregnancy is fatigue...Well, if by fatigue you mean acting like you were hit in the head with a tack hammer whenever you are at a rested state, then my wife is all over it! I swear I have never seen a person fall asleep so fast in my life...Once her glasses hit the night stand, it's all over! It's like she is turning a switch from awake to sleep! Normally this is a pretty good thing...Many people would love to fall asleep so easily...Well - she does this at 7:45pm...When you don't make the end of Wheel of Fortune I think you have issues!!
So, what have I done with all the down time?? Most of the nights I have taken full advantage of being in control of my TV destiny and falling asleep to sports on the tube without anyone telling me to "put something else on," or to "find something we both want to watch!" Guys - isn't it funny when they say that! I mean, they should just say, "Can we watch what I want?" - because that's what they mean! Anyway - there are also the nights where I fall asleep really early too! When there is nothing on TV (normally Wednesday nights) and I am finished harvesting my crops on Farmville (my newest vice), I figure there is nothing to do, so I sleep!
When you are married there are those times when you just say to yourself...."LEAVE ME ALONE!!" Obviously, this can be said by the husband or wife, and I think it should be said more freely...We all need our down time....But this pregnancy stuff gets a little ridiculous! Its like someone is saying, "Sleep now, because you wont know what sleep is like later!" But, how can i sleep when there is Anthony TV on all night!!!!
We are now almost 11 weeks along and entering the end of our first tri-mester! Crazy how fast time flies...especially for Christine...She has slept through most of it! HA HA!
Friday, October 23, 2009
RAGING!!
It has been said (not necessarily by me) that pregnant women get a little crazy early on in pregnancy! I am pretty sure that my lovely wife is OK with me sharing that I have seen a little bit of this early on!! Hormones are a crazy thing at times, and during pregnancy they seem to be all hopped up like a bunch of 10 year olds on pixie stix! In my life, I have always dealt with sticky situations through humor...and these hi-hormonal times call for a bit of the same! Every time Christine seems to be getting a little out of whack, I say "RAGING!" - as if to say that her hormones are raging out of control! Now, the first time I said this I was definitely taking a walk on the wild and dangerous side! She could have erupted like a volcano and spewed lava in my direction...But - I know my wife, and she thought it was hilarious!
Being able to use humor in this situations is a gift, BUT there is a such thing as over use....And I have not mastered that yet! I know what you're all thinking...Christine is so sweet, how on Earth could she "snap!" Well, lucky for you all - I have an example...My brother and his girlfriend were coming over for dinner and they called me that afternoon asking what they could bring. I said a dessert would be nice, so they asked me what Christine could not eat so they didn't make that...well, in all the books and websites that i have looked at - i thought (which was my first mistake) that she could not eat nuts...So, i relayed this information to my brother. So they come to dinner and they bring a dessert with half nuts, and half NO NUTS! Christine enquired about the dessert and I said (acting like i helped her out), "I told them you couldn't have nuts sweetie!" She looked at me as if I had just ended her universe...and said - "WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING??" HA HA - apparently, she could have nuts, and wanted nuts!! Everyone laughed and i said, "RAGING!" Then she laughed!!
So guys...give it a try! If your pregnant wife is going off on a tangent and seem out of control...look at her and say.."RAGING!" But be ready to run in case they arent as cool as my lovely wife!!!
Being able to use humor in this situations is a gift, BUT there is a such thing as over use....And I have not mastered that yet! I know what you're all thinking...Christine is so sweet, how on Earth could she "snap!" Well, lucky for you all - I have an example...My brother and his girlfriend were coming over for dinner and they called me that afternoon asking what they could bring. I said a dessert would be nice, so they asked me what Christine could not eat so they didn't make that...well, in all the books and websites that i have looked at - i thought (which was my first mistake) that she could not eat nuts...So, i relayed this information to my brother. So they come to dinner and they bring a dessert with half nuts, and half NO NUTS! Christine enquired about the dessert and I said (acting like i helped her out), "I told them you couldn't have nuts sweetie!" She looked at me as if I had just ended her universe...and said - "WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING??" HA HA - apparently, she could have nuts, and wanted nuts!! Everyone laughed and i said, "RAGING!" Then she laughed!!
So guys...give it a try! If your pregnant wife is going off on a tangent and seem out of control...look at her and say.."RAGING!" But be ready to run in case they arent as cool as my lovely wife!!!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Questions
Life seems to be full of important questions that people will ask...and I have noticed that there is clearly no end in sight!! When I was a single college grad I would often get asked..."So, when are you going to settle down and date someone?" As if I wasn't looking, right? After Christine and I were dating for about 6 months the progression of questioning went on the path of engagement!! "When are you going to buy a ring and propose to this girl??" I remember that I didn't even have a chance to brush the dirt off of my knee before the next question followed...."When is the wedding?" AHHHHH
The questions however intensify after that, and they seem never-ending..."Are you guys planning on having kids?" - YES...."When?" - Not sure...we don't want to wait too long! "How many?" - Can I have 1 first?!! It felt like a HUGE relief to announce that we were pregnant...maybe the questions would stop!! HA - NEVER!!
The questions however intensify after that, and they seem never-ending..."Are you guys planning on having kids?" - YES...."When?" - Not sure...we don't want to wait too long! "How many?" - Can I have 1 first?!! It felt like a HUGE relief to announce that we were pregnant...maybe the questions would stop!! HA - NEVER!!
- Are you going to find out the sex?
- Do you have names picked out?
- Are you going to breastfeed?
- Is your house big enough?
- Whats the nursery going to be?
- Is Christine going back to work?
- Can you afford this?
For the record...YES, YES, not personally, YES, No idea, YES and NO!
Christine and I are planners, more her than I! Today in fact, I got a call from her asking what I was doing on a specific date next spring....My answer of course was - No idea! For this reason we need to find out the sex of the baby! We think that for the first baby the showers will go smoother if we know what we are having and know what to register for....plus we would drive ourselves insane!!
I have always heard expectant fathers say that they don't care if they are having a boy or a girl...just want a healthy baby! I always thought that they really all wanted sons, but they just said that to make their wife happy...And maybe they did...A boy would be great since my brother has had 2 beautiful girls, and we need some balance! Then again, a daughter would be great too...I always cry at the movie "Father of the Bride" and would love to have that kind of relationship with my daughter! I honestly thought I would always say BOY when I was asked that, but I guess things change when you are going through it! So my answer....boy or girl....a healthy baby is all I want!
Well...I thinks that's all for now...The only question I want to hear on this Monday night is "Are you Ready for Some Football???" And yes I am!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
3 things
Well, we just had our 8 week appointment - and it was as good as advertised! We are REALLY pregnant! it hits home when the doctor takes the time to go over everything with you and tell you how everything is going...And I am happy to report that all is very well! Christine was a trooper as usual and the nurses and the doctor could not have been better!
We had a sonogram and I got to see the heartbeat again...still amazing to see! I was happy that they took us back right away and did the sonogram because that is really what we both wanted to see - that the baby was doing great and to see that heart beating. And it was beating at 151 bpm, which I'm told is perfectly normal (it looks like our kid already has their parents stress levels)! After the pics the nurse took us back into a room and told us one of the best things I have heard so far...She said - "I will give you 3 pointers to your pregnancy that you should live by!" WOW, I thought to myself - I can even remember 3....and they made a lot of sense!
1. Don't read books! (WHOOPS, already started!)
2. Don't go on the Internet! (Christine is guilty here!)
3. Your friends aren't doctors! (HA HA)
I like #3 the best! The books and the Internet can scare the Hell out of you, but that third one can be the kicker!! I'm sure you have all heard the expression..."Opinions are like _________...Everyone has them (This is PG folks!)!" When you're pregnant - EVERYONE around you that has either a) been pregnant, b) known someone who has been pregnant, or c) wants to be pregnant, knows what you should be doing during your pregnancy! My wife and I were actually worried that she has not been sick and nauseous yet!! HA HA - AGAIN, we were worried that she WASN'T sick! Why? Well, because her pregnant friends are all sick! HA HA! The nurse told us that it is perfectly normal and perfectly lucky, and to laugh at our sick pregnant friends!! She really said that, but I would NEVER laugh at a pregnant woman!
After that the doctor came in and examined Christine (her yearly woman check-up), but this time it was a little different....Why? Because I was in the room during it! I have a better appreciation for being a dude after that exam, and I will leave it at that!! I'm also sure I will be more happy to be a guy after 9 months!
FACEBOOKing the fact that we were pregnant after the long wait was the best!! We have such a great group of family and friends supporting us! I could not wait to put that on there, but we all know that I have Facebook issues!!
That's it for now...and remember friends - you aren't doctors! But you can keep the opinions coming!!
We had a sonogram and I got to see the heartbeat again...still amazing to see! I was happy that they took us back right away and did the sonogram because that is really what we both wanted to see - that the baby was doing great and to see that heart beating. And it was beating at 151 bpm, which I'm told is perfectly normal (it looks like our kid already has their parents stress levels)! After the pics the nurse took us back into a room and told us one of the best things I have heard so far...She said - "I will give you 3 pointers to your pregnancy that you should live by!" WOW, I thought to myself - I can even remember 3....and they made a lot of sense!
1. Don't read books! (WHOOPS, already started!)
2. Don't go on the Internet! (Christine is guilty here!)
3. Your friends aren't doctors! (HA HA)
I like #3 the best! The books and the Internet can scare the Hell out of you, but that third one can be the kicker!! I'm sure you have all heard the expression..."Opinions are like _________...Everyone has them (This is PG folks!)!" When you're pregnant - EVERYONE around you that has either a) been pregnant, b) known someone who has been pregnant, or c) wants to be pregnant, knows what you should be doing during your pregnancy! My wife and I were actually worried that she has not been sick and nauseous yet!! HA HA - AGAIN, we were worried that she WASN'T sick! Why? Well, because her pregnant friends are all sick! HA HA! The nurse told us that it is perfectly normal and perfectly lucky, and to laugh at our sick pregnant friends!! She really said that, but I would NEVER laugh at a pregnant woman!
After that the doctor came in and examined Christine (her yearly woman check-up), but this time it was a little different....Why? Because I was in the room during it! I have a better appreciation for being a dude after that exam, and I will leave it at that!! I'm also sure I will be more happy to be a guy after 9 months!
FACEBOOKing the fact that we were pregnant after the long wait was the best!! We have such a great group of family and friends supporting us! I could not wait to put that on there, but we all know that I have Facebook issues!!
That's it for now...and remember friends - you aren't doctors! But you can keep the opinions coming!!
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