Monday, September 19, 2011

I Survived (So Far!)

I wanted kids as far back as I can remember.  BUT, there was one thing about parenthood that stopped me in my tracks, gave me pause about having children at all and had me considering home schooling so they wouldn't ever have to be in a cesspool of germs -- vomit.  Hate it.  Hate the mere idea of it.  Hate the anticipation of it.  Hate the even remote possibility of it.

Well, I just survived the dreaded stomach flu with Ellie.  A major milestone of mommy hood (passed, with flying colors, I might add!)  I have to say, it wasn't as bad as I thought.  My little lady was SUCH a trooper, so very brave.  And, to top it all off, she kept looking up at me with those big, sad blue eyes, saying "tank you Mommy.  I wuv you Mommy."  Love.  Love.

As the clock strikes 10:38 tonight -- marking the exact moment we will reach the coveted 24 hour mark -- I will sleep soundly knowing that I graduated past my private parental panic with honors!

P.S.  G-D, since I was such an amazing mom...can you please spare me, the hubs and most of all the 4 year-old?  He has his first field trip tomorrow and is beyond excited.  And, selfishly, while I was great, truly -- I'm still not quite ready to do it again! 

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Blog Bliss

First...what do you think of the new look?  I love it..."me" colors and just the right amount of girly/cutesy.   I might re-work the signature a bit...but, I couldn't wait to get the new and MUCH approved look up and running.

Secondly, I was chatting with some of my favorite co-workers this morning, both who asked me when my next post was coming because they really do love reading my blog and my writing.  I honestly haven't been that into it lately, but just hearing those kind words gave me just the inspiration I needed to stick with it.  I'm such a sucker for a pat on the back or some kudos..works every time! 

So, here are a few updates on The State of Jen:

1.  Last night, I went to a friend's house to help her with her darling kids while her husband was on a business trip.  She has a 6 week-old and a 3 year-old and the thought of doing the "witching hour" alone sent her into a bit of a tailspin.  I jumped at the chance to help -- because I remember feeling the exact same way.  She told me she was embarrassed to ask for help, thinking I'd judge her for not wanting to handle the few hours alone.  I took her hands in mine and explained that I did everything in my power to NEVER have to do dinner/bath/bed time alone until Ellie was oh, about 6 months.  And, that I stopped judging other parents the exact day I became one!  Her relief was palpable as I held that little bundle of newborn for a few, precious hours. 

2.  I'm co-throwing a baby shower for my BFF on Sunday for her baby boy due 11/11/11 -- so cool!  (You know I'm not that into getting induced for delivery -- but I might have to make an exception for this one, what a cool birthday that would be!)  I'm very, very excited and will post pictures next week.  I'm also a bit nervous since I volunteered to make ALL the food myself.  With the hubby at a golf outing all day Saturday, it should be an interesting scramble!

3.  The kids are fantastic.  MDB has his first field trip next week.  They are headed to another pre-school to play outside and have a picnic in the park.  He is beyond excited to ride the school bus and I was beyond excited to sign my very first permission slip!

4.  Ellie, oh my Ellie.  She is just full of spit and vinegar these days.  Darling as heck, but also a whole, lotta 2.5 year-old drama.  I think we have a live wire here -- reminds me of someone else I know.  Me?  No, not me! :)  My parents secretly wished a "spirited" child on me during my own bouts!  Happy guys?

5.  Lastly, my quest continues on my never ending (or starting for that matter) weight loss/get healthy battle.  A few girls at work who have managed to change their lives for the healthier are letting me into their Weight Watchers "support group."  Today is our first meeting and I'm pretty excited about it.  Like I said, I've always needed the support (and praise) of others to help me on hard journeys -- so here goes nothing everything!