Meet the Farka's

An Exchange with Evalyn

2011-12-07T16:06:00.000-08:00

"By Mama I'm going to da store, you want to come with us?"

"No thanks baby I'm going to stay here."

"Okay you stay here with brudda Graham. You want me to bring
you a snack?"

"No thank you honey, I'm good."

as she walks away... "Suit yourself."

Eight Weeks

2011-11-30T08:28:00.000-08:00

My sweet baby boy is eight weeks old. Someone stop the clock please because this precious time I have off with him is speeding by too quickly. Last week he started cooing and really smiling and interacting with us. Don't you just want to snuggle him?

Evalyn loves candy

2011-11-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

Our conversation went something like this...

"Hey, hey Mom I want some canny please."

"Not now sweetie maybe in a little while."

"But MOM I want some caaaaaannnnny!"

"Well, I want a million dollars, do you know where I can get a million dollars?"

"Mom, I no have a million dollars."

Baby Bruddah

2011-11-07T07:28:00.000-08:00

My grand plan was to go into labor on my own (not be induced with pitocin) and have him naturally, without pain medicine. You know what they say about plans right....

This little guy was just like his sister, too comfortable in his hot tub. At about 36 weeks pregnant I was dilated to a two and 80% effaced and having random contractions. I was excited. Ecstatic even. With Evalyn none of that happened. I thought, no problem this guy may even decide to make his entrance a little early. And then... nothing. No change for four weeks, well he was changing -growing and GROWING.

At our 40 week appointment I asked my midwife, Machel, (who is AMAZING) what her opinion was and she said, "well, you never really know, but you could stay this way for another two weeks or he could decide to come tomorrow. But, if you wait you will likely have one BIG baby."

I decided to go ahead and make an appointment to be induced. I told myself that it wouldn't be that bad, I could still go natural and hey - maybe I'd go into labor that night before my induction appointment the next morning.

We arrived at the hospital and handled the paperwork and the business of being hooked up to monitors and IV's. My labor and delivery nurse (Chris) was fabulous. When I told her I didn't want to be stuck in the bed all day, I didn't want pain meds and that I didn't want IV fluids (unless I was dehydrated) she said no problem. At a little before 10 a.m. my labor was started with pitocoin.

Lane and I relaxed, shopped online and searched the Internet for names for our little guy. We had a few names on the list, but still weren't sure what we wanted to name him. Lane started to get hungry so I sent him down to the cafe to get lunch at 11:30. Shortly after he left Machel came in to check on me. I was dilated to a four and in a 'nice labor pattern'. She asked if I wanted her to break my water and I said yes, I wanted to keep progressing and not be stuck in labor for as long as I was with Evalyn (a grueling16 hours).

After she broke my water the contractions became more intense, I shifted positions every half hour or so, I stood up and walked around, sat on an exercise ball, tried to relax and nap in bed, and repeat. Chris was there when I needed something always offering encouragement or joking with Lane about names for our boy. She offered music and aromatherapy and heat packs.

The heat, awesome. Everything else was for the birds. I ~~wanted~~ needed it to be quite so I could focus and breathe through each contraction. The contractions were lasting about a minute with two minutes rest. At 2:00 I was dilated to a 6+ and in the middle of an intense contraction when Chris came in and increased the pitocin. Looking back, I wish I would have been able to ask her if that was necessary and not to do it if it wasn't.

After the increase the intensity of the contractions tripled and they were coming on faster and lasting longer with only about a minute rest between. I was struggling to relax between contractions. It just wasn't enough time. At the next check I was a 7 and starting the transition phase of labor. My hip felt like it was going to shoot out of my skin there was so much pressure! I decided that I wanted to get an epidural at that point.

I was dilated to an 8 by the time I received the epidural and wouldn't you know, it didn't work at all on my left side and only worked just enough to take the edge off on the right. Machel stopped in at around 4:30 to check on me and decided to have me start pushing even though I wasn't quite a 10. After just 3 contractions our beautiful baby boy had arrived.

Graham Judge Farka
Born 10.4.2011at 4:52p.m.
7lbs11oz, 20.5 inches

first family photo

first bath

big sister and "baby bruddah"

TWO

2011-06-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my little monkey turned two at the end of last month. TWO! Everyone tells you that the time just flies by but no words can prepare you for how fast it really goes. She has just blossomed over the last few months into the cutest, most mischievous, funny little bean! Her vocabulary is huge and it's not uncommon to hear her say 'Recogize!' (recognize). 'I'm da boss here or I'm in charge here too Mama!' Her s's sound like th and I can't get enough of it. She still has a hard time saying her own name. It sounds sort of like Ellen or Eh-lyn. She sings in the car and loves Lady Gaga and tells me every morning when we get ready for school and work that 'I look booful mama, you look booful too.' She will open her arms wide and say I love you dis much dada!

I tell you I can't get enough of her!

When we asked her what kind of cake she wanted for her birthday she surprised us and said she wanted Angee burds cupcakes. Ooooookay. You got it! Here's how they turned out. Not too shabby, eh? The little blue ones are actually Oreo Cookie balls dipped in white chocolate and rolled in blue sugar.

And here she is singing Happy Buurthday to you to herself. Thanks to Grandma and Papa Farka, Nana and Doug and everyone else who helped make Evalyn's second birthday special. She had a great time.

Dig in! She still asks for Angee Burd cupcakes on occasion.

Have I mentioned...

2011-06-20T20:16:00.000-07:00

...that baby boy Farka is on the way? No, I guess I haven't. Here's the most recent picture from our 24 week ultrasound. He was being mighty stubborn and kept his hands right in front of his little face the whole time, so this is the best we got.

Here's my belly at about 12ish weeks, not much to see, although I sure felt awful. This pregnancy has been night and day different from last time. I felt great with Evalyn - not sick much and mostly just tired. No such luck with this little fella. I could barely function some days and thought I was going to 'lose my lunch' for about 8 weeks straight. I never did actually vomit, but then if I had maybe I would have felt better.

After about 14 weeks I started to feel almost human again, just HUGE. My belly popped out so much faster this time and the weight came on a lot sooner than it did with Evalyn. That's probably because the only foods that sounded good during those first sick weeks were, well, not healthy. French fries, okay. Mac and Cheese, you bet! My appetite finally normalized and the weight stopped pileing on (THANK GOODNESS!). Here's a belly shot the morning of the 24 week ultrasound. I'm about 27 weeks now. We get to spy on the little peanut again next week.

I'm still running, although slowly and I feel like I might pee my pants at any moment! My goal is to make it until the end this time.

Evalyn talks to my belly and gives her baby bruddah kisses. She will also put her hear to my belly and listen to what baby bruddah is saying to her.

This 'N That

2011-03-05T11:41:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends, Have you missed us? We've missed you too - it's been slightly hectic around here lately - with an almost two year old, daily life including work and such, two out of town trips and some in town guests. Phew... got that?

Here's the monkey all dressed up and ready to go to school. She's turned into a little parrot and repeats just about everything. We have an appointment later this month with an ENT. Poor girl has had five ear infections in about three months and antibiotics are NOT HER FRIEND. I'll spare you the poopy details. You're welcome.

I mentioned two out of town trips - Lane headed to the King of the Hammers race with a few friends and then I left him to Daddy duty while Jen and I went to GA for our cousins wedding. Here we are at the rehearsal dinner.

The happy couple newly married. I love this shot! The wedding was beautiful and it was great to see family that we hadn't seen in years. Not to mention sleeping in and not waking up to an alarm for three days!

Snow Day

2011-01-10T19:17:00.000-08:00

We decided to get out of the house and play in the snow - well I decided that's what we should do. She thought it was great fun until she fell and then it was all over. I tried to show her that it was fun to play in the snow and throw snowballs but the minute I dropped onto my back to make a snow angel she started yelling NO, NO, NO! MAMA NO! So we packed it in after a short time and she decided to perform some baby yoga. Down dog anyone?

Stranger Danger

2010-12-20T06:32:00.000-08:00

She was curious; watching, sneaking closer, giggling and pointing at the can-ee (candy). He handed her a candy cane, she said tan too (thank you). Then on his lap she turned into a limp noodle and proceeded to melt down. Merry Christmas!

Can you guess where Lane is?

2010-10-19T06:05:00.000-07:00

Shocker

2010-09-15T11:52:00.000-07:00

While running with Evalyn in the jogger yesterday I saw the following:

a 60+ year-old shirtless man riding a bicycle wearing cut-off daisy duke jean shorts. I'm talkin skimpy here people.
a male construction worker wearing a straw hat with a bright pink bow.

I did not see

the electrical wire on the chainlink fence that I leaned over. Shocker, literally. Thanks Mr. Farmer - may I suggest a sign that says Caution Electric Fence?

Labor Day Adventure

2010-09-09T11:33:00.000-07:00

With the Land Rover National Rally just around the corner Lane needed to take the Defender out for a 'shake-down' run. So we headed out early Monday morning with a few of his buddies and their kids. I was nervous about taking Evalyn off road and about how she'd do in the car that long. But she did great - even fell asleep for a while on one of the bumpiest parts of the trail.

Strapped in to her PRP preemie seat that Daddy bought to keep her safe. It was a little chilly thankfully Evalyn's winter hat still fit.

The group at the top of Minearl Basin trail.

We also spent time at the park, boating with friends and eating good food.

At the helm with Jared. Have I mentioned that we're in trouble, she loves guys - especially Jared!

At the park. We had the whole place to ourselves.

What's a good holiday bbq without corn on the cob? She ate 1.5 cobs all by herself!

Turns out she has gills

2010-07-10T08:54:00.000-07:00

Fun Mom Friday post - even though it's Saturday.
My little one really loves the water. So much so that it's kind of freaking me out a little. We've taken her swimming a few times and she can't get enough of it, in fact she'll play and play and play until her little lips turn blue and her toes look like raisins.

This week we went to a private party at the local aquatic center and she was practically jumping out of my arms to get to the water. Swimming lessons here we come!

This one's a little fuzzy - stole it from a friends FB page.

That darling little bathing suit was a gift from Lane's sister, last year. It still fits.

Talk to me

2010-06-30T18:36:00.000-07:00

Evalyn's vocabulary has grown exponentially in the last few weeks. I can't get enough of her babble and the way she holds a conversation with me. Today she was walking around the living room holding her shoe above her head saying shoe, shoe? shoe? It sounded like a question and she said it over and over again and every time she would stop I couldn't help asking her to do it again.

Here's what we know she's saying...
Mama (yes she said it before Dada!)
Dada
ball
baby
belly
nose
no, no
yes
uh-oh
please
Sassy but it comes out sssss-sssss
Nana
more
me
bath
shoe

More cake and presents!

2010-06-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Tentative at first....

Enjoying the goods....

Opening presents...

It was a great day, thanks for celebrating with us!

Cake 1 OH 1

2010-06-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

I decided to be Debbie Crocker for Evalyn's birthday and attempt a barnyard cake. What sounded fairly easy turned into a more than 4 hour ordeal, but I loved it and I think it turned out fabulously. If I do say so myself.

Square Carrot cake for the barn, two small rounds for Evalyn's personal cake and carrot and yellow cake cupcakes for the animals.

Square cut into barn shape, frosted red, wood slats carved into frosting. Do you have any idea how much red food coloring it takes to make RED? A LOT!

Graham cracker shingles and barn doors, coconut died yellow for hay and pretzel sticks frame the hay loft and doors.

Got too busy and forgot to take shots while creating the animals - but here they are. Pink pigs with fruit roll-up ears, chicks with more yellow coconut and gum drop beaks and the pain in the rear sheep with mini marshmallows for fur and gum drop ears.

And the mini round cakes made a cow for Evalyn to devour.

More to follow.

Feast your eyes on these

2010-05-10T18:44:00.000-07:00

So we've been playing around a lot lately. Share in our fun look and at this cuteness.

Here's Evalyn playing at our local My Gym. Did I tell ya'll that she's gotten some teeth. Four to be exact. The first one was one of the bottom middle, typical first tooth for a babe. Then her top eye teeth decided to pop through. Yes, she looks like a vampire. Hopefully she'll let me get a photo, every time I've tried she either screams at me or clamps down on my fingers.

Dressed up in pirate gear for Ollie's party.

Packing for our trip to Vegas to visit my sister and Dad. She had just pulled her jammies out of the suitcase and was very proud of herself.

Hiking with the family at Red Rock. If you squint you can see the waterfall. I know, waterfall in Vegas weird.

Swimming in the pool at Dad's hotel. We couldn't stay in the water for too long, it was a bit chilly, but still much warmer than it's been at home.

Hangin' out in the suitcase while I unpacked everything.

She's started talking more and tries to say Sassy which comes out ssssss-sssss. She says Mama, Dada, ball, and uh-oh which sounds like uh-ooooo. My favorite thing she's been doing lately is patting me on the back when I pat her to help calm her down. Heart-melting isn't it?

Oh and this weekend she stood up by herself in the middle of the room. She hasn't done it again yet, I ~~fear~~ think someone will be walking very soon!

Cutest bunny I've ever seen

2010-04-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Be-lated Easter!

All is well

2010-04-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

After another UTI we decided to go ahead with the VCUG. A VCUG involves catheters, die, and x-rays to check for reflux. After having subjected Evalyn to catheters I wasn't at all anxious to have this test done. But, I also wanted to know. So we scheduled the test. Evalyn's pediatrician recommended that we try the it without sedation - who wants to hold down a screaming baby for anywhere between 20 - 30 minutes? Not me. But. BUT. Did I want to take the risk of sedation?

Being the planner that I am I called the peds sedation program at my place of employment and spoke with nurse Jen. She is, in a word, amazing. She calmed my fears and answered all of my questions. In short, we opted for sedation.

Starting to feel the effects of the cocktail...

Snuggling nurse Jen and giving her a comforting pat on the back* after the test was all done.

Later that same day we received a call from the doc and were notified that all is well. She does not have reflux and her kidneys look normal. You can all now breathe a sigh of relief.

*Evalyn pats you on the back when she snuggles up, it is heart-melting.

Less than extraordinary

2010-02-27T07:59:00.000-08:00

It started last weekend when Evalyn was running a fever.
"Do you think we should take her in?" Lane asked me.

"I don't know, she seems fine, she's eating and playing like normal."

"Do you think she's getting a tooth?"

"Maybe."

So we gave her some Tylenol and hoped we'd be seeing her first pearly white anytime. Sunday morning the fever was gone. And then, as I plopped her in her highchair for lunch I noticed that her lips looked purple and she was taking short breaths.

We called KidsCare, loaded her in her carseat and I called a friend who is also a nurse. "What's wrong with my kid?!" I was assured that Evalyn's body was tryng to generate another fever and sure enough, by the time we made it to the clinic she was hot again, 103.5.

They tested her for the flu, negative.
For another UTI, possible, we would have to wait for more tests.
RSV, negative.

With an antibiotic in hand and instructions on new dosage levels of fever reducer by her weight we were on our way.

I felt like a bad mother, for dismissing a fever thinking it was teething. For not knowing better. For not being able to tell that something was ailing my baby.

*******
The last few weeks have been rough in ways that I can't explain here. It's been overly busy at work and at home. The laundry has piled up, sometimes dishes don't get done before I fall into bed and there are days that I'm surprised that I make it out the door with everything I need for the day.

I'm pulled in a million different directions every day and I don't feel like I'm giving any one of my responsiblities as wife, mother, daughter, sister, etc.. the attention that each one deserves. We're rushing through life these days and I've been down on myself for not being able to keep it all together and running smoothly.

*****
Evalyn's urine test results came back negative for a UTI, there was bacteria growing, but not enough to be called an infection. So now we're at square one again. Do we test her for reflux? Do we wait until we KNOW that she's had more than one UTI? The antibiotics worked like a charm, so she certainly had some sort of infection. Oh, and not a tooth to be found - yet.

To end this post on a lighter note, a fun photo of our sweet babe. Here she is trying out her uniform for her mascot duties for the Ragnar team I'm running on this June. Team name Lei'n Tracks.

What we've been up to

2010-02-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

We've been busy around here making changes to our little home. A friend of mine painted her kitchen cabinets this awesome shade of dark chocolate and I got the itch to do my bathroom in the same color. While I was at it I re-purposed an old mirror and gave it a coat of paint too. The walls needed some love so we hit them with a shade of grey-green that I'm crazy about.

But perhaps my favorite change is the new floor.

This project took over our life for about a month but I couldn't be happier with it. In fact, I may be sitting in the tub while I type this post.

Oh and we've been doing a little of this...

Warning: a post of randomness with a mention of boobs

2010-01-15T07:23:00.000-08:00

I'm 3/4 working Mom and 1/4 work at home Mom (or something like that - let's not get technical on the math folks). I work from home on Thursdays, and yesterday, I felt like Superwoman. By 11:00 a.m. I had knocked out several of the items on my work to-do list, restocked my frozen stash of homemade baby food, done two loads of laundry and spent some time on the floor laughing with Evalyn. By all accounts it was a good morning.

*********
We've caught the home improvement bug and have been knocking out little projects and taking on bigger things that needed doing. The fireplace is now functional, the hall bath has tile flooring and our master bedroom has a fresh coat of paint. Nevermind the fact that I HATE the color. We're not sure if it was a mistint or if I just chose a grey that looks like little boy bedroom blue. Whatever. It's getting a redo soon. Next up is the floor in the master bath and possibly a backsplash in the kitchen. Oh, and did I mention that the garage is clean enough for me to park in there?

*********
After nearly eight months of nursing my 'girls' are drying up. I'm not one of the lucky ladies who is blessed with an abundance of milk. No, I struggled to get my milk to come in and every ounce was liquid gold. I pumped religiously at first to build a frozen supply for when I had to return to work. I had a goal, no formula for 9 months. When I started working again I pumped two to three times a day and would barely have enough milk for one feeding. (Thanks to my frozen supply, we made it 6 months without formula). Then, Evalyn started eating cereal and veggies and fruits and nursing less and less.

It's bittersweet.

Taking care of business

2010-01-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

Alternate title: A shorn thing.

Here is Sassy - in all her shaved, depressed glory. Perhaps a 'sexy sweater' would make her feel better?

Alternate title: Punk ballerina

Special thanks to Aunt Jen for the tutu!

A belated Merry Christmas

2009-12-26T07:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas sort of snuck up on us this year...guess having a little one will do that to you. Hopefully Evalyn won't mind me using her as my excuse for not getting my cards out to everyone that I wanted to. We wish you all a happy holiday just the same and here's to getting it all done earlier next year.

Hot Head

2009-12-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

Evalyn had a fever last week, which I chalked up to a possible impending tooth. She was perfectly happy, eating normally, sleeping a bit more than usual but no other symptoms. Tylenol stopped controlling her fever on Friday evening so we took her in to KidsCare.

After a quick exam and a urine sample we were sent on our way. They said they'd call with the lab results. Sunday afternoon we were notified that Evalyn had a bladder infection and they called in antibiotics. She'd been fever free since Saturday morning, but we picked up the prescription on Monday and started her on them. Here's where things get sort of interesting.

Evalyn's pediatrician called to follow-up on Monday afternoon. I let her know that she was fine, didn't have a fever and seemed back to 100%. She said that was great, "but I want to run a few more tests for vesicoureteral reflux." They wanted to do an ultrasound on her kidneys and a VCUG. I told the doc that I wanted to discuss it with Lane and that I'd call back and let them know our decision.

We've decided not to do either test at this time. This is the first issue she's ever had and IF she ends up with another infection we'll go down that road. But for now - she's as happy and healthy as can be...

Little Shop of Horrors

2009-12-06T06:55:00.000-08:00

My phone rings.

Her: Hi, this is Affordable Pet Grooming, we have a problem with your pug.

Me: Okay, what's the problem?

Her: Well, we had three pugs here today and we got them mixed up.

Me: Okay?

Her: We accidentally shaved your pug.

Me: You shaved her? Who shaves their pug!?

Her: So um, well, we're not going to charge you okay?

Me: That's fine, thank you.

After finishing up our errands we pick Sassy up and head home. Everything seems okay with her until Lane notices blood on the floor. Lots and LOTS of blood. E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E. It was all over the wood floors in the kitchen, spots on our living room carpet and down the hall.

We scooped her up to figure out what was going on, they had trimmed two of her nails so short that they were bleeding badly. Now if you have a dog and have ever done this by accident, you know that they bleed for a long time and there's really nothing you can do to stop it. So, the poor thing was stuck in the bathroom all day yesterday.

6 Months

2009-11-30T18:04:00.000-08:00

Look who's 6 months old today.

I swear I blinked and half a year went by.

Snuffles

2009-11-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Evalyn has a cold. Stuffy nose, cough and a serious attitude about it. The poor thing gets mad when she tries to suck on her binki or fingers because she can't breathe. And for the first time since she was less than 2 months old she didn't sleep through the night on Saturday. But you can't be mad at her when she looks like this can you?

For a peek at her 6 month photo shoot visit my friend and photographers blog - Sara Boulter Photography

Bug and a Pug

2009-11-01T10:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!

Sassy dressed as a pig for Halloween this year.

Cutest ladybug I've ever seen!

Happy Birthday Lane!

2009-10-27T18:55:00.000-07:00

This post is a bit late, but this cake is to awesome not to share.

P.S. I did not make this cake. I wish I knew how.

Firsts

2009-10-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Our front porch has been lacking one very important fall decoration, pumpkins. So to remedy such an oversite we headed to Black Island Farms in Syracuse for a hayride and pumpkin picking.

At Evalyn's four month appointment her pediatrician suggested that our little munchkin was ready to try cereal. Aparently some of the signs that a babe is ready are; the ability to hold up their head without wobbling, strong push-ups when on their belly, putting things in her mouth, and an interest in what Mom and Dad are doing when eating, just to name a few. She exhibited all of those except the interest in what we were eating - until last week.

She's still so young that I didn't think she'd like it or want much to do with it, but, we decided to give cereal a shot anyway. Below, the result. She L-O-V-E-D her first experience with cereal. This is my new favorite photo.

Oh, hello there blog. Nice to see you again.

2009-10-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

A few photos of what we've been up to the last few weeks. First, Daddy and Evalyn hangin out in the garage. I'm thinking off-roading is in her future.

In a cute little flower outfit that was given to her by a co-worker of mine. Darling I must say.

Getting ready to go jogging in the BOB for the first time. She did great, fell asleep about a mile in to the adventure and didn't wake up until we got home.

Halloween here we come.

Testing out her new chair. She LOVES to sit up.

And finally, this was snapped today at her four month check-up. She weighed in at 10lbs 4oz, 23 in long. Growing at her own pace and hitting all of her milestones, her latest trick rolling over.

She's in a hurry

2009-09-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe my eyes when I gently put her on her belly for some tummy time and the next thing I knew she was on her back. Nana was here and said, "are you sure you had her all the way on her belly?" So I rolled her over to her stomach and she popped right on over again. "You're in trouble, that little one is in a hurry, just like you were."

She's also decide that she wants to sit up. She'll pull her little head up off of the ground and try like mad to come to a seated position. I'm telling you she'll be walking before we know it!

One of her teachers also mentioned to me that she's been practicing her sit-ups while at day care. To entertain you with another Parent Moment, Evalyn pooped E-V-E-R-Y-W-H-E-R-E today. While I was feeding her during my lunch hour today she let out the loudest toot - she's her father's daughter for sure. So I decided to change her before heading back to my office. Apparently she wasn't finished. The second the diaper came off out shot the poop. I'm talking projectile poop here folks.

I was so embarrassed, "hi first time Mom here, don't mind me."

Going back

2009-08-31T07:49:00.000-07:00

I know that posting has been sporadic lately, but I've been trying to spend every spare second I have with Evalyn before the end of my maternity leave. Which happens to be today.

The next few days are going to be hard, really hard. I've been trying to mentally prepare myself to return to work so that I am able to drop Evalyn off to daycare without a major meltdown. The thing is I'm not all together sure how to do that. I've thought about it ALOT, tried to talk about it without tearing up, dreaded it and given myself a hundred pep talks. I don't think its working.

I know that it is going to be infinitely harder for me than it is for her, but I can't help but think about what she's going to be thinking when she wakes up from a nap and I'm not there to greet her. When she's upset and I'm not there to comfort her. When she's hungry and a stranger is giving her a bottle. I have complete faith and trust in those that will be watching her but, BUT, is she going to be sad that I'm not there? Wonder where I am, where she is, and why I've abandoned her?

I can't help it and the guilt is KILLING me.

Millions of women do this every day and my close friends and family tell me that it will get better, that I just have to get through the first week or so. Is it horrible to say that maybe I don't want it to get easier or better for me not her?

So tell me friends how do you do it? How do you leave someone so cute?

The rule of three

2009-08-12T19:19:00.001-07:00

Why is it that crummy things happen in three's?

1. Washing machine is a quitter
2. Discovered a leak in the basement
3. Another mouse is in my house

Home ownership is fabulous.

We've redoubled our mouse eviction efforts and purchased a new washer and dryer. The leak, well we're not sure about that one yet. Thankfully water is coming in (and staying) in one of the unfinished rooms in the basement.

2 Months

2009-08-07T16:08:00.000-07:00

I procrastinated taking Evalyn in for her two month well baby check, partly because we had visitors and I knew she may not feel well from the shots. But, mostly because I was nervous about what the pediatrician would say about her growth. She's still so tiny and during the first two weeks of her life while we were dealing with jaundice and a baby that didn't poop, they grilled me about nursing.

So I finally sucked it up and took her in. She weighed in at a hefty 8.5lbs and is now 22 inches in length Thankfully, wasn't lectured because she's growing, is on the charts and is a healthy happy baby who sleeps through the night and only cries when she's sleepy or hungry. WE ARE SO LUCKY!

She handled the shots how any baby would, she looked at us with disbelief in her eyes, "why'd you do that!?" The rest of the day she was fussy and sleepy but by Wednesday morning she was back to her normal self.

Every day she's getting more vocal and recently started batting at and occasionally grabbing the toys on her play gym.

Visitors

2009-08-04T10:35:00.000-07:00

We've had quite the exciting last week. Jen and her boys came up from Vegas and my Dad and his wife Carol flew in from Florida to meet Evalyn for the first time. I'm embarrassed to admit that I forgot my camera when we went to Lagoon to see how Owen liked amusement rides and well, most of the places we went. However, here are a few shots that I did manage to get.

Granddaddy with Evalyn Owen playing with the Range Rover Uncle Lane gave him in our messy garage - he actually looked up at me and said 'cheese' Caleb (5 months) and Evalyn (2 months)

With my Mom and Jen's in-laws out of town we had Jen and her boys at the house, it was so much fun to have them all to myself this time. Now that they're back in Vegas my house seems very quite and lonely. We miss you all already!

Adventures in shopping

2009-07-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

My 10 year class reunion is coming up and nothing fits, perfect time for shopping, right? I went to a few places last week and struck out. Either too tight, too big, or just didn't fit me how things used to - I know - I can hear you all now - it's only been six weeks. I know.

So a friend and I decided to go shopping today, she had yet to meet Evalyn and needed to pick up a few things and I still needed a dress. First, one must get out of the house. Let's start at the beginning.

My car is in the shop AGAIN. Our warranty is almost up and there are a few items that need to be addressed, trunk only opens with the key and the car uses oil like it's going out of style. It doesn't leak a drop it just uses it all up. But I digress. Being without the car isn't a problem because we have plenty of those, its the fact that the stroller is still in the trunk.

Two choices, haul the heavy car seat everywhere or put Evalyn in the baby sling and hope Erin doesn't mind holding her while I try on clothes. (I opted for the sling and Erin was happy to snuggle with Evalyn).

Load up the car with baby and diaper bag and realize that the vehicle is nearly out of gas, no problem though there's enough to make it to the mall. I think Erin is a shopping lucky charm because the first dress I tried on looked great and ended up being the one I purchased AND it was on sale, thank you.

Money helps when trying to make a purchase. My debit card was at home. PERFECT! Thankfully, I had other forms of payment with me.

In all the trip was a success, I found a dress and shoes, Erin got what she needed and Evalyn slept the whole time.

Slow it down

2009-07-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Evalyn entered our world over a month ago. She's officially 5 weeks old and the days are ticking so fast that it makes me weepy. I look into my sweet baby's eyes and see her trust in me. Trust to be the one that will be there for her when she needs me, to feed her, comfort her and care for her in every way - and it's all I want to do.

Watching her grow and change by the minute makes me want to smash every clock and shoot father time. The first time she smiled I melted, now she does it on purpose and she's cooing and moving in what feels like fast forward.

As I rocked and nursed her this morning all I could think was "I just want to remember this, these precious, fleeting, moments."

A few of my favorite things:

The way she stretches, arms up, head back as far as it will go, legs tucked tight.

When she opens her eyes wide at the sound of Lane's voice.

The way she smacks her lips after she's finished nursing.

The noise she makes when she's upset and trying to suck on her pacifier.

A Parent Moment

2009-06-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

This morning I put Evalyn down for a nap, she wasn't especially tired and she let me know it by wailing at the top of her lungs. I went into the nursery to snuggle her and settle her down and found that she had wiggled all the way out of her blanket and her diaper. (yes, that means that I didn't put it on tight enough, she's skinny). I wish I'd thought to grab my camera.

I picked her up and moved her to the changing table where she immediately decided to pee. I couldn't help but laugh. Evalyn cried harder. My friend calls these 'Parent Moments' - HI TRENT - when everything is going along just fine and then all hell breaks loose.

This mornings event reminded me of my first parent moment. Evalyn's first poop blowout happened after one of our visits to the pediatrician. It was up her back and and well - everywhere. I couldn't figure out how to get her onesie off without getting poop all over her in the process, so I didn't. It was all over my hands, her head, legs and body. Because I didn't want to cry I laughed hard and imagined how great that moment would have been caught on video.

What's your parent moment? Leave a comment - stalkers!

Happy Daddy's Day

2009-06-21T06:22:00.000-07:00

We woke up this morning to Evalyn whimpering and squirming. It was 5 a.m. and too soon to feed her so I lifted her out of the cradle and handed her to Lane so they could snuggle and I could catch a bit more sleep.

At 6 I woke up and looked over at Lane - Evalyn wasn't there - I ripped the blankets off of him searching for her and nearly shouted "WHERE'S THE BABY?!" He had quietly lulled her back to sleep and put her back to bed. As if on cue - Evalyn started to fuss - it was definitely time to eat.

Now she and I are quietly sitting in the living room; the pug snoring on the couch and Evalyn rocking in her swing, because Lane requested sleep for Father's Day morning, sleep until 8:00 a.m.

A model in the making

2009-06-16T09:06:00.001-07:00

Go here to see a sneak peek at Evalyn's first professional photo shoot.

A sleepy baby is an easy baby to photography (according to Sara). Too bad Evalyn wasn't in the mood for a nap!

If you're in the market for a photographer use Sara - she's amazing.

My sleepy inmate

2009-06-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

Maybe this is why she's gaining weight so slowly. My sleepy little baby. This outfit was a gift from a friend and it's absolutely adorable. I think she looked a little like an inmate with the striped pants.

Part 2

2009-06-11T06:48:00.001-07:00

Cry baby cry.

I've decided that no amount of reading books, taking classes and discussing others experiences with childbirth, child care and breastfeeding can prepare you for your own very unique experience. The first week of Evalyn's life was so emotional, beautiful, painful and amazing all swaddled into one.

Why doesn't anyone tell you how much a vaginal delivery will hurt? I'm calling my girlfriends out on this one...thanks a lot ladies! Not that it would have made a difference, it just would have been nice to know. I figured that I'd hurt some but dear God I felt like someone had beaten me with a baseball bat in that sensitive area. (sorry if there are any fellas out there reading this).

The first day in the hospital following the birth Evalyn seemed to be getting the hang of life, pooping like crazy (no less than 15 times!) and latching on easily. It was a good day. That night however everything fell apart. She was screaming like she was hungry, rooting around for something to nibble on every hour. I was in tears, I didn't know what to do - she couldn't be hungry - could she? So we'd try again. My nipples were scabbing over and hurting so finally we called in the nurse and asked for help. Her suggestion - give her formula. WORST ADVICE EVER. Honestly I think she just wanted to give me the quick easy solution so that she could get the heck out of this crying, new mothers room. I asked that they send in the lactation consultant as soon as she got in the next day.

I resisted the formula that first night and let them take her to the nursery so I could get some sleep. Apparently, Evalyn fell right asleep in the nursery. Thanks baby for making mom look crazy!

The next day we found out that her bilirubin was high, she had a touch of jaundice and that we'd have to stay one more night. They gave us a bili blanket and instructed us to keep her naked, except for her diaper and on the light, feed her and get her to poop (that's how they eliminate the bili). After the first day she didn't have much left to poop out, so she didn't. Every time the nurses would come in they'd ask - has she gone yet? And the the pressure to supplement my baby with formula was put on in full force. What's a new mom to do? All I wanted to do was nurse my baby and get my milk to come in. But I kept thinking, am I harming her by not supplementing? It was agonizing, I cried and cried and gave in. We did whats called S&S, where you use a syringe and small tube to supplement formula while the baby nurses and guess what - she still didn't poop.

The lactation consultant came in and wasn't very helpful. I was so disappointed that she didn't even offer to watch Evalyn latch on, to make sure we were doing it right. To tell me what a baby's swallow sounds like, to look at my cracked, scabbed and sore nipples and offer suggestions. Nope, I think she was having a bad day. Whatever, so was I.

Even though we were exhausted, stressed and worried that our baby wasn't getting enough and that something was wrong because she wasn't pooping, we were loving every minute of loving on our beautiful baby girl. Sunday night they took her to sleep under the strong bili lights and brought her to me every 3 hours to feed. The next day her bili had come down and we were cleared to go home.

The hospital requires that all new parents go to a discharge class. Sue, the lactation program manager was there to talk about feeding and what to expect. She stopped into our room after the class to check on us because Evalyn had a touch of jaundice. When she asked how it was going I nearly melted into a puddle of tears. I told her of our struggles and she asked to see the side that was hurting the most. Immediately she gave me suggestions, soothie nursing pads and tips to help my milk come in. I couldn't have been more grateful.

So we loaded up our stuff and off we went with instructions to visit the pediatrician the next day to have Evalyn's bili checked.

At home things were going well, she still wasn't pooping, but she was happy and alert. She'd eat and seem satisfied. If we tried to supplement she'd pinch her lips together tightly as if to say - nope I'm full thanks. At the peds office she was weighed, listened too, poked for the bili test and we were grilled about her eating habits. We were sent home and told that we'd be called with the results and that we may need to come back the next day.

Not only did we have to go back the next day, we went in on Thursday too. Her jaundice was gone, but they were still concerned about her lack of poopy diapers. When we went in she was given a suppository which made her poop like crazy. I wanted to shout SEE I'M NOT STARVING MY BABY! By then I had given up the supplementing, because it obviously was not helping anything. All it had done was make me an emotional wreck. I can't tell you how many times I broke down sobbing to Lane, "I just want to feed my baby! What's wrong with me, I thought this was supposed to be a natural process!"

Over the weekend she still hadn't pooped on her own so we called the doc. She suggested we come in again. Another suppository another very, very messy diaper. FINALLY the doc told us that babies generally fall into two categories, those who poop after every feeding and those who go every 7, 10, 12+ days. She said "I think you just have one of those infrequent poopers."

Slowly, so slowly my milk has come in and now feeding less stressful. My soreness is gone and I feel great, ready to exercise in fact, but I'll wait for the ok from my doc. Now if I could just figure out how to keep the house clean and care for Evalyn we'd be in good shape.

Lane has been absolutely amazing. He's a wonderful Daddy and I can't get enough of watching him with Evalyn. He sings to her, he reads to her, he plays with her and kisses her so sweetly it fills my heart to bursting. How did I get so lucky?

Some lessons learned and hilarious moments from the first week or so:

1. don't make a postpartum mom with an episiotomy laugh - lest you also want to make her cry out in pain.
2. nothing fits our skinny long baby. Preemie is too short, newborn sizes drown her.
3. sleep deprivation makes you say and do funny things. We both startle awake and look for the baby worried we've shoved her under the blankets on the bed, set her on the dresser, or lost her somewhere in the house.
4. it's normal for new parents to check on their sleeping baby 5000 times during the night, just to make sure she's still breathing.
5. Evalyn pee's when she's cold - during diaper changes, on the scale at the peds office, during bath time, all over Daddy etc..
6. getting out of the house is an adventure. Don't forget to buckle the baby in the seat, not just set here there - Dad.
7. Trying on pre-pregnancy pants on week after giving birth is depressing.

That's all for now. More to come soon.

One Week Ago - Part 1

2009-06-06T08:31:00.000-07:00

Okay so more like 8 days ago Lane and I headed to the hospital to have our baby. My midwife Machel, decided that it was time for our little one to come out, she was still measuring a bit small in the belly and her fluid levels had started to drop slightly (which is normal for term babies).

After some quick paperwork we were ushered to our room. Machel came up to break my water at 10:30 a.m and the pitocin was started. Slowly the contractions got stronger and stronger. And OH SO SLOWLY I started to dilate. After several hours I was a whopping 2, progressed to a 4 and hung there for several more hours. At 3:30 p.m. I wussed out and got the epidural. My contractions were coming on every 1.5 to 3 minutes apart and were hitting 80-90 on the scale (whatever that means - all i know is the highest the scale went was to 100 and I was hurting ALOT). Because I was progressing so slowly they kept upping the pitocin, at one point I think I had not quite double the dose that they usually give.

Finally hit a 6+/7 and stalled there. Machel kept reassuring me that we'd make it if we were patient, I had a small breakdown somewhere in there because I really did not want a c-section and the epidural had worn off in the areas that matter, but I couldn't move my legs...perfect.

Got a boost of epidural around 10:30 p.m. and felt better for oh about 30 minutes and again it began to wear off. When the nurse came in to check my progress at sometime past midnight I was so tired, trying to sleep and didn't really care to hear her tell me that I was still a 7. It hadn't been more than 30 minutes since she last checked - so I just laid there frustrated and worried. I seriously thought she was joking when she said I was a 10 and ready to push - then I nearly cried I was so relieved.

My wonderful nurses came in and we pushed a few times while we waited for Machel. After nearly 16 hours of labor, a little more than an hour of pushing, playing tug of war with Lane to help the pushing, laughing at the cheesy jokes from Lane and the nurses ("this is going to be your crowing achievement" etc), a small episiotomy and my baby was born - 2:02 a.m.

She had a bit of a cone head from being in the birth canal for so long, someone said she'd look like Marj Simpson for about a day and I laughed again.

I couldn't belive my eyes when I saw my precious baby girl, she was beautiful with all ten fingers and ten toes, eyes and nose and ears all where they should be. Absolutely perfect. My baby. Our baby. It is the single greatest moment of my life. Better then everyone said it would be.

Part 2 coming soon.

Just a taste

2009-06-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

No time now for a long post, but trust me it's coming. For now here's a small taste. Lisa Rinna eat your heart out, look at what 6 bags of IV fluids and nearly 16 hours of labor will do to your face and lips!

My tiny little baby Evalyn Grace was born at 2:02 a.m., 6lbs 12 oz, 20.5 in.

What we've learned so far:

1. sleep deprivation will lead you to say and do funny things. I woke frantic asking Lane - "Where's my baby!?" He woke up convinced that he needed to get on ESPN2.com to order an exact replica of our baby. He was walking in circles around the bed and couldn't understand why I didn't know exactly what he meant.

2. always put a diaper under the dirty one before proceeding with the diaper change. Lane ended up with pee on him and our bed. lovely.

3. our baby has a stubborn streak already.

4. going to the pediatrician every day since we came home is NOT FUN.

That's all for now folks. More to come later.

Too much information

2009-05-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

Each visit I have with my midwife she takes a look at baby girl with the ultrasound machine. It's been wonderful to watch our little bean grow, just peanut sized at the first visit to now a 6lb bundle taking up ALL of the space in my abdomen.

Now you ladies who have docs or midwives who do the same will know that they give you estimates of size at these visits, baby weighs x, head size is x, belly size is x.. and so forth. This little one has a smaller than average belly which I've mentioned before. She's been measuring about two weeks behind pretty much my entire pregnancy. I was assured that two weeks behind is 'no real cause for concern' it's when baby falls much more behind that they worry about preeclampsia, PIH, problems with the placenta, IUGR etc.

So to the point already - at last weeks visit baby measured at 4 weeks behind - when the week before she was still holding steady at just 2 weeks small. I was sent for blood tests to check for PIH (pregnancy induced hypertension) and threatened with bed rest! The compromise was that I cut back my hours at work and quit exercising. (oh just shoot me now!)

Yesterday we went back in to get the results and remeasure baby and wouldn't you know it - the test came back clear and baby is back to measuring just 2 weeks small. Technology I tell you - sometimes it's a curse and sometimes it's a blessing. Love that I can see her grow, hate that it made me worry all weekend long about possible complications.

Better safe than sorry right?

Oh and if the basement project dust wasn't enough to put me over the edge - we're getting new flooring later this week upstairs. Nothing like starting a project with just about two weeks until b-day.

I need sleep

2009-05-06T19:14:00.000-07:00

But I can't! This natural process of getting the Mom to be ready for sleepless nights ahead is a design flaw. For the love of all that's holy let me sleep now, because in a few weeks I know I'm not going to be getting any. Trust me, I'll acclimate then. For now this working, 9 months pregnant woman really really wants to sleep.

29 days 'til b-day

2009-04-30T07:02:00.000-07:00

29 days and counting! It's crunch time now and my list of things 'to do' is not getting any shorter.

The warnings from my formerly pregnant friends and family that the last three months DRAGS on is not true for me. So many work and home projects, so little time.

Now accepting applications for a personal assistant/housekeeper/gardener/cook.

The other shoe

2009-04-24T19:20:00.000-07:00

Here we are week 35

Baby girl is growing fast now, although her tummy is still measuring a few weeks behind, her other measurements (head, femur) are right on target. Which means my belly is growing and growing and growing. It's to the point now that tieing my shoes requires holding my breath and dealing with a few angry kicks and punches from baby.

We're on weekly visits to the doc to check progress and so far nothing much is happening. I've been instructed to drink Red Raspberry Leaf tea three times a day to help soften the cervix and prepare my uterus for delivery. Crossing my fingers that it actually works. Because, this mama to be does not want to be pregnant longer than necessary.

A place for baby

2009-04-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Finally - the nursery is starting to come together. Bead board has been hung, walls have been painted and the bedding set chosen. We still have some organizing to do and wall decor to purchase and hang, but we're getting there. I'm really happy with how it's turned out - much better than before.

With a little more than six weeks to go - Lane and I decided to attend a childbirth prep class at the hospital and I'm glad that we did. A few weeks prior to the class I asked Lane if he was going to watch the birth of our baby girl or if he was planning to focus his attention on me. I was surprised at his answer (he's not the queasy type) he said he 'wasn't sure if he wanted to see that'.

After the class he's changed his mind. I guess that watching strangers on a video give birth he's no longer worried about watching our little one make her big entrance.

2009-04-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

For our anniversary (in February) my wonderful hubby gave me a certificate for a pre-natal massage and pedicure. Which I finally used yesterday.

I waited until now to because I wanted to be good and uncomfortable before I cashed in the massage. At this point in my pregnancy I've started to feel sore and stiff in ways that I can only assume my granddaddy feels. My limbs don't want to respond to my commands when I get up in the middle of the night to relieve my crowded bladder. (I think baby likes to pretend it's a punching bag).

Needless to say the massage was perfect. They have a special pillow that allowed me to lie on my stomach - I want one of those for home. Scratch that. I'll just settle for a massage everyday.

Ten weeks to go!

2009-03-16T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hang on to your hats folks - we've got ten weeks until our little baby girl arrives.

This pregnancy has flown by and now I'm wondering why I didn't get things done sooner. Or wait, I know exactly why, I'm indecisive! But enough of that... I'm feeling brave today so here's a photo of my 30 weeks pregnant belly.

For comparison sake let's look at the the scene just 10 short weeks ago. Here's week 19:

Clothing Conundrum

2009-03-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

I find myself staring into my closet blankly - almost every morning. I'm indecisive and unhappy with the clothing options that are staring right back at me. It's a maddening morning routine that I need to break.

I'm so lucky to have a sister and friend who were recently pregnant and have loaned me their maternity wear. But, I long for variety and my old wardrobe. (never thought I'd say that!) Tell me I'm not alone ladies...did you face the same challenge? What did you do to overcome it?

Lacking a few brain cells...

2009-03-04T16:24:00.000-08:00

This morning I opened the door at 4:30 to head to the gym and noticed I'd left the garage door wide open all night long. Oops. A quick survey of Lane's tools eased my mind, everything appeared to be there.

Later...I was heading to meet a good friend for lunch and noticed that my wallet was not in my purse. My heart skips a few beats as I stand in the parking lot trying desperately to remember when was the last time I had used or seen it. For the life of me I couldn't remember!

I repeated my morning routine in my head and nothing, I was completely blank on the the whereabouts of my wallet. I kept thinking, not again, I can't lose my wallet again! Panic was setting in. Could someone have come into the house last night and stolen it? No, I reassured myself, certainly not.

After an anxious lunch and several apologies for having to mooch off of my friend, I rushed to work to finish a few things so I could get home and search the house. Thank the good Lord my wallet was right where I'd apparently left it. In my gym bag.

My brain is broken - baby is stealing all of my working cells and making me completely scattered.

Small Bellied Baby

2009-02-25T06:57:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was monthly check-up day. I was instructed to eat a candy bar and drink some full sugar soda before coming in, the glucose test. Let me say that, although I've never tasted the orange syrup many physicians dole out, I've heard it's pretty nasty and was glad I had an excuse to eat candy.

Sugar test normal. sigh of relief.

However, little baby girl here has a small belly. Okay I was thinking, no big deal right? Well apparently the belly measurement is the most accurate when determining size and growth rate of my little one. She also said the doppler was 'slightly off'. I'm lying there with goo on my abdomen becoming more anxious. I asked what that would indicate - "possible problem with placenta perfusion." Which means baby may not be getting enough nourishment through me.

So we're scheduled to go back in two weeks to check her size again and go from there. So for now I'm only slightly worried. My doc said make sure you're doing paying attention to her movements and if they drop off let me know. So far since Tuesday little girl has been doing cartwheels and and all sorts of maneuvers.

Cross your fingers for us that everything is okay.

Let us eat cake

2009-02-17T18:00:00.000-08:00

This weekend marked our sixth anniversary. Six years folks. We didn't do anything out of the ordinary to celebrate - dinner at a nice restaurant, a bit of shopping downtown and then home for a quite evening and a piece of cake from my favorite bakery.

It was in a word, perfect. Sure there are far more romantic things we could have done but wouldn't have it any other way.

A dusty mess

2009-02-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

We're in the process of finishing (or mostly finishing) the basement. It started about a year and a half ago when Lane and I had the grand idea that we could do it ourselves. Lane is the epitome of the do it yourselfer but, this project proved to be not only daunting but a bit above his expertise in some areas.

So we broke down and hired some help. The dry wallers came in an finished what Lane had started and went further and even fixed some of his work. Man they were fast. Why I didn't do this sooner ...

You're looking at the kiddie play room under the stairs. It would have otherwise been wasted space or a small closet. Our dry wall helpers cut out small windows to peer out of and a 4' door. In the background you'll note the construction mess and the roughed-in fire place.

The only unfortunate side effect of finishing this space is the dust - oh the dust! It's everywhere, not just in the basement oh no. It's in my carpet and there's a film that coats my kitchen and living room. However, if I have to dust twice a week until this is all done, I believe I will still think its worth the extra effort.

Next up: doors, paint and masonry for the fireplace.

**************************

If you're wondering why you're seeing half of Lane's mug on our header - well - the image is too big and I just haven't had time to mess with it. Stay tuned for a new header soon.

A Serious Craving

2009-02-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

I needed cake this weekend, I really wanted a cake from this little bakery that I love in Salt Lake, but that wasn't exactly practical...so I made cupcakes.

I asked Lane if he wanted to help me and he obliged. While we were mixing I remembered one of my weird dreams I'd forgotten to tell him about. In this particular dream I was leaving the pilates studio, slipped on some ice and cracked my head so hard on the stairs that I wasn't long for the world. The hospital kept me alive just long enough to let baby girl grow a bit and then deliverd her and pulled the plug on me.

I looked up at Lane and asked him to promise me that if something like that should ever happen that he would make sure that our daughter kept in close contact with my family. Nana, Aunt Jen, Uncle Robi and so on. Remembering that dream and making that request brought on such strong emotions I started bawling into my cupcake batter.

Pregnancy hormones.

I'm fortunate enough to have a husband who, though he may not understand why the little things bring on the tears, he certainly knows how to make me feel better.

He took one look at me and said "of course I would why are you even worried about this," then he gave me a great big hug and just held on until I was done crying.

Weekly Project

2009-01-24T16:45:00.000-08:00

Remember my goal to tackle one project a week? Well how about 4 or 5?

It started with the crib and dresser. Last weeks project (moving some furniture around and putting my reformer into the front bedroom) didn't happen. So in order to make room in the nursery we had to get busy shuffling things around.

Then the assembly:
Sorry about the yellowish hue - the battery was dieing and the flash didn't want to work.

Here's the finished product: (freshly charged battery, thank you)

I guess I caught a cleaning bug or something because after that was accomplished, I finished laundry, washed the blinds, vacuumed, organized the hall closet and a few other small tasks. It feels good to have this all taken care now if I could just decide on a bedding set...

Routine

2009-01-21T12:52:00.000-08:00

Every day starts the same for me, alarm at 4:15 – hit snooze once. I hit the gym for an early workout and then head home to get myself gathered for the day. Shower, style, dress, make bed, eat breakfast and head to work. Although the routine doesn’t change much from day to day there are times that it takes me what seems like twice as long to get out the door. Today was one of those days.

As I was driving I decided that since I was late anyway I would stop and get a decaf coffee from a local drive through joint. The line was long making me even more tardy for work (oh well – what’s 5 more minutes?). Pay, take hot beverage and get on the road again. Before pulling back onto the main drag I checked left and then sat there, staring longingly. Left was the way home and I so badly wanted to go home, to deviate from my standard routine.

Nothing special is waiting for me there besides my pug dog Sassy - unless of course you think laundry is something special then I stand corrected. I didn’t have an aversion to any particular task that awaited me at my desk nor did I have a meeting with someone I didn’t care to see. No, I just wanted to go the other way today.

My life sometimes feels like the movie Groundhog Day. Wake up – repeat. Don’t get me wrong I’m not complaining, there’s comfort in routine but I’m craving a change. Maybe it’s my body and mind getting ready for that little someone due this spring that will forever change my routine.

And I can’t wait.

I've got a feeling

2009-01-08T18:26:00.000-08:00

Up until last week I didn't really feel pregnant.

When it happened we hadn't officially started 'trying' though we were nearly to that point. I wasn't late but I had a feeling that I may be pregnant so I took a test. It was positive and the result was a very shocked me. We'd been diligent about birth control throughout our marriage because, well, we weren't ready. Apparently we've either been lucky up until then and the birth control had always done its job or we're just really fertile and the one time we throw caution to the wind boom I'm knocked up.

For the first few weeks I felt completely normal other than my boobs we're so tender I would go into defensive mode when Lane even looked at them. As that passed some slight queasiness and extreme exhaustion moved in. But, even though I'd seen the ultrasound pictures and the pregnancy test and knew I was having classic pregnancy symptoms, I just didn't feel pregnant.

Slowly my clothes started to become uncomfortable starting with the bras and then dress slacks but I didn't look pregnant. I still don't think I do - to me I just look chubby. Like I've fallen off the exercise wagon and strapped on the old feed bag.

But then, I felt her move. A small punch or kick that I couldn't pass off as digestion or my imagination. My baby had sent me a message, "I'm really in here Mommy."

I don't feel her often, mostly at night when I'm relaxing in bed and last night she hit hard enough for Lane to feel her too. When he talks to her its sweet and so funny sometimes I can't help but laugh causing what he calls 'a mommy earthquake.'

Now that this pregnancy feels real panic is starting to strike. Oh the list of things to do. I've decided to pick one project a week and slowly try to check them off one by one. This weekend I had my way with the kitchen cabinets. The crib should be here next week so we'll need to move furniture around to make room in the nursery.

Get ready here we go...

Do you know?

2009-01-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

I'm looking for a site that will convert blogs to printable books. Blurb.com provides this type of service to blog sites - but not blogger.com. Do you know of one that supports blogger.com?

Another year...

2009-01-03T07:57:00.001-08:00

Happy belated New Year from Moab, Utah.

Here we are destroying the environment* and trying to climb a rock slope. Let me assure you that I was very nervous and asked to be let out after the first failed attempt. I jumped out and up he went.

*we were on the trail Fins & Things - in designated areas only. 'Destroying the environment' is an inside joke of sorts.

**************

In Baby news:

Baby Farka is a girl.

I am 19 weeks along and gave up the ghost on most of my pre-pregnancy jeans and work pants. (mostly for comfort reasons).

Thankfully I have not been sick - nauseous sometimes but have yet to 'toss my cookies'.

I've given up coffee and all caffeine, lunch meat and soft cheeses. I really miss coffee.

No strange cravings yet, though for awhile there I was really into bean burritos from Betos.

Strange, vivid and mostly funny dreams have been visiting me lately. Maybe I will post one.

We're thrilled and scared all at the same time and thoroughly enjoying shopping for cribs, strollers, baby clothes etc.

Now the challenge will to be getting the basement and nursery finished before Baby arrives.

*************

It appears that the jerk who stole my purse will likely get away with it. The Chevron that my AMEX was used at had their cameras turned toward their car wash to try and catch some heathens who had been vandalizing the place. OF ALL THE ROTTEN LUCK.

Also, a word to the wise - AMEX will not provide proof of any false transaction that has taken place with your card until it posts to your statement. For me that's not until the second week of January. Oh, and the police can't follow-up on it until they have proof of the transaction. It appears that AMEX doesn't too much care about catching people who commit fraud.

**********

That's all for now folks. Happy New Year to you and yours. Here's to new adventures, less bad luck with technology and criminals and more love, positivity and prosperity.

Happy Effing Holidays

2008-12-28T18:26:00.001-08:00

I guess that the holidays bring out the very best in people...

Saturday morning I headed to pilates, the roads were a bit icy from the snow storms so it took longer to get there than I had anticipated. I was in a hurry and rushed into the studio without my purse. Less than 30 minutes later someone came in asking if we'd called the police "there are broken car windows out there."

Mine was one of them.

The tint on my windows held the glass together so the criminal had work to get the goods on my front seat. So the window, the door frame, the headliner was ripped and there are a few scratches in the seat leather. NICE.

I lost: my purse, camera, montblanc pen my dad gave me for my wedding, all of our gift cards we'd received for Christmas, credit cards, favorite sunglasses, check book etc.

I feel violated and extremely sad. Not to mention cold. It's winter you know, windows are a good thing.

Announcing

2008-12-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

Baby Farka - Due May 29, 2009

There's a mouse in my house.

2008-12-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

Imagine my surprise when I saw the little critter scramble across my living room floor and duck behind the entertainment center. I jumped up and ran to the garage to fetch the official mouse catcher - Lane. He laughed at me when I yelled, "there's a mouse in the house! Come in here and get it!" Maybe it was the rhyme.

After some gentle persuasion (translation - begging and pleading) he came in to try and capture him. BUT! It was gone, already moved on to who knows where in MY HOUSE! And now I'm cautious every time I open a cabinet - thinking I'm going to see him staring back at me with those inky eyes. My overactive imagination has gone into overdrive filling my head with images of mice parties where they tease my pug dog and raid the pantry. So far I haven't seen it again, the only other sighting was the same night - when Lane saw it running behind our Christmas tree. But I know he's around here somewhere...

In Deb's perfect world there'd be a nice humane way to trap the mouse (and his friends and family if they're hangin at casa Farka too) and relocate them to the fields that are a few miles from here. But, that's not exactly practical and before the little furry thing decides to send out 'the party at my crib message' we've got to get rid of it.

So now we have traps here and there (thankfully they're the kind that I won't have to see the mouse) and some poison in the garage and basement. Trust me when I tell you that this really bothers me - since I tend to like animals better than I like people and yes that includes the creepy critters known as mice.

Thanksgiving Weekend Antics

2008-11-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

I hope your weekend is shaping up to be as good as ours is. Yesterday we (me, Lane and my brother Robi) had a small gathering at casa Farka. The menu was a pared down version of the regular turkey day fare..because the big feast is this Sunday at Mom's. Who says you have to celebrate on Thursday?

So we ate - Turkey (thank you Honeybaked Ham), stuffing, mashed potatoes, asparagus, rolls and cranberry sauce. Cherry pie for dessert.

We then hit the cinema for Four Christmases - funny movie for those who may be interested.

I'm not usually one to brave the crowds for black Friday shopping...but we did it, not only that we went to the preview sale at Michales and purchased a new Christmas tree. Photos coming when it's decorated.

Oh and we spent WAY too much money today! Can't tell you on what though - because it'd give away some Christmas surprises. What did you do?

No news yet

2008-11-26T15:52:00.000-08:00

So we still don't know what's up with the surgery timing for Lane... waiting and waiting and waiting...

In other news - My Mom and I flew out to North Carolina to surprise my Grammy for her 75th birthday. The look on her face was priceless. I wish I could share it with you but I forgot my camera. I'll share photos as soon as I get copies from my Mom.

It was so great to see the extended family again - it's been WAY too long. Since our wedding...nearly six years ago. Needless to say it was about dang time.

I'll post more info with photos when I get them!

Surgery anyone?

2008-11-14T10:16:00.001-08:00

It looks as if there is another knee surgery soon to be scheduled for the Farka home. This time Lane will be the patient.

The injury - the same as mine (only a bit worse) - torn ACL, MCL and lateral meniscus.

The cause - soccer. Only he was taken out by a girl and I managed to do it all on my own. I'm not sure which is worse.

Is this causing anyone a bit of deja vu?

We'll keep you updated on the details as soon as we have them. He may be going under the knife as early as next week. I'm praying for a speedy recovery and less pain than I was in. Have a great weekend everyone!

Yes, we're still alive and well

2008-11-11T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hello again friends, I know it's bee some time since I've updated - so please excuse the lack of details. We'll start with the most recent events first...

The Rover project has been taking up a significant amount of Lane's time. Notice anything missing? Yeah, the roof is gone now and he's building a roll cage. Hopefully this will protect his noggin.

Halloween. Matt and Ashley invited us over for a party we had to show up in a costume or naked, so of course we chose the costume option. Ricky and Lucy.

Babysitting my nephew in Vegas turned out to be a bit of a disaster. Poor guy caught a flu like bug just before I flew into town. Wouldn't you know it he was feeling fine by the time I arrived, but of course I had to catch it too. Jen got it while she was supposed to be having fun in California, I got it back in Vegas and it was just a mess. Good thing O was happy enough to play with sick Aunt Debbie. He ran around with pants on his head for a good hour. It was super funny!

Thankfully, he and I had two fun days before I got sick. Here he is chowing down on some yogurt. He kept saying mmmmmmm, mmmmmmm and asking for MORE!

And my sweeties 28th birthday celebration. We invited some friend to brunch and after about 1.5 hour wait we were in. I can't believe how close we're getting to the big 30!

Here's to renewed commitment to keeping up on the ol' blog!

No Applause Necessary

2008-10-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

My dearest friend Amy at Two Guys, A Girl and A Couple of Dogs gave me this award. That's right she 'hearts my blog' and gave me this nice little award. And now it's my turn to return the nicety or pay it forward.Here's how it works. I get to choose seven other blogs that I love to read, (trust me there are more then seven!) but rules are rules. Should you make the list - thank the person who gave it to you (that would be me) and then choose your favorite seven.

I know that some of these folks have already received this award, but I'm picking my favorite seven. Enjoy.

Mother Boy and a Pug
Please Pass the Salt
Boogie
Two Guys a Girl and a Couple of Dogs
The Orem Birds Nest

and two blogs I read all of the time though I don't know them personally - they're great writers.

Dooce
Sweet Juniper

Camera Shy

2008-10-18T07:50:00.000-07:00

Lane and I have been married for going on six years. I know, the time has flown by! A few months ago I was thinking just that, we've been together for so long and we haven't had professional photos taken since our wedding day.

Luckily I recently reconnected with an old high school friend, who wouldn't you know it, is now a professional photog. I fell in love with her work the second I saw it and knew I had to have her update my family photos. Check her out here Sara Boulter Photography. Or here for a sneak peak at one of our photos from the session.

Now most folks don't enjoy being in front of a camera and Lane and I are no exception. But, with Sara behind the camera she made it relaxing and fun, I think we spent more time laughing and joking around then posing. I just hope she was able to get a few keepers!

Welcome Old Man Winter

2008-10-12T09:26:00.001-07:00

See that white stuff? Yep, that would be snow. It's October 12 and it's snowing - you'll hear no complaints from me, at least not until it melts. I love winter.

Georgia Adventures

2008-10-01T18:03:00.000-07:00

This is the Lazy J Crazy J Bar. A tile in the kitchen at my Grandparents farm. I love this place. One of the old structures that my family used to use when the farm was still a cattle farm. This building was used to corral the cattle so the vet could give them a once-over. Watch your step, lots of poison ivy and oak around. ITCHY!
My Dad and Grandaddy. Dad's going to look just like him in a few more decades. Grandaddy spent most of his time in this chair hangin out or in the kitchen at the bar watching me make fresh peach newton cookies. We visited about his time in the military and of my favorite memories of the farm.
My cousin Jeff and his beautiful girlfriend Rachel drove up from Atlanta to visit with me and Jen, Dad and Carol and Grandaddy. Here he and my sister are taking a walk down memory lane. My Aunt AveryLynn is in the process of organizing years and years of photos. I hope we didn't mess with her system. We spent about an hour laughing and looking through photos of our family.

I had a wonderful time visiting with the family. My Grandaddy is getting up there and was recently diagnosed with two aneurysms that are inoperable. (Not that he'd let them if they were). I love that we were able to sit and talk and just relax together for a few days. Love you Grandaddy!

Hello from the Sticks

2008-09-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

I've skipped town and landed in Appalachee, Georgia.

I'm here visiting my Granddaddy, dad and his semi-new wife Carol. Can I just say that I love the south? It's so lush and green and just beautiful. If I'd remembered my stinkin download cable I would be able to share photos with you today, but you'll have to be patient until I get home.

The Lazy J Crazy J Bar farm is approximately 200 acres of Forest in the middle of beautiful Georgia. When I was growing up it was a cattle farm and one of my favorite memories is that of heading out with grandaddy to feed the cows. They would follow the truck hoping for some pellets or other nice treat that we decided to bestow upon them. Big wet noses and sandpaper tongues, I just loved standing in the back of the pickup surrounded by the cows mooing cattle.

Today the cows are gone and the family has turned to tree farming. Pretty simple, plant, chop and sell. Okay, so it's more complicated than that but the trees don't need feeding.

Pictures and adventure updates will come later. Bye Y'all.

Because I'm feeling sappy.

2008-09-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

I'm going to pay a much deserved tribute to my hubby.
Ten things I love about Lane - in no particular order.

His genuine desire to help anyone who needs it, and I mean anyone.
He's never met a stranger.
His infectious laugh.
His ability to fix just about anything that breaks.
He can't sit still, so our life is hardly ever boring. Spontaneity.
The way he talks to our pug dog. It's very cute.
The way he let's the small stuff just roll off of his back.
The way his eyes crinkle at the edges when he smiles. He's getting some crows feet and I like it.
He'll do anything it takes to take care of us.
He can make me laugh even when I want to be mad.

I love you babe!

This is him - doin one of the things he loves. Off roading in Moab. Note the tire off of the ground.

Books, Yes Please.

2008-09-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love books? I had some extra time today between work and pilates, so I hit the local book store. As I wandered the isles it I started thinking about how much I love to read and admire those who can write so well. Sometimes, I wish I had majored in English so that I could have honed my writing skills - maybe molded myself into a Writer.

Why is it that I couldn't have had that much clarity - you know - when I was in college? Walking between the shelves I was hit with a memory. Sixth grade science - we were tasked with writing a creative story about the planets. I remembered the note that my teacher wrote (no, I can't remember his name) but yes, I remember that note. It said something like - great job, you should think about writing as a career. Should have paid more attention.

While I was squandering time I picked up a few and flipped though them - one of my favorites that I'm considering purchasing - Skinny Bitch.

Is it time?

2008-09-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I want a baby so bad I can hardly breathe. It comes on at the strangest and most obvious times – like when I’m sitting at my desk writing a media release or when I’m kissing my baby nephew goodbye. And then other times I couldn’t be more sure that I’m glad I’m not a mother yet. Like when I start to think of all the things that are wrong with the world, the things I have yet to accomplish and oh! the things that can go wrong with a pregnancy and child.

My fears, my nearest and dearest tell me are silly and everyone has those thoughts but that they shouldn’t keep me from having a family. So irrational or not here they are - my list of what if’s

- We can’t conceive
- The baby has a birth defect
- He/she turns out badly (you know - like a murderer)
- I miss the first step or word or any first because I have to work
- I’m a bad mother
- I can’t protect them from all the things that are wrong with the world
- He/she resents me for not being there because I have to work

Crazy? Stupid?

Technology and I do not get along.

2008-08-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

Ever.

So once again I'm having tech troubles, my ipod is in restore mode as we speak and my digital camera battery is dead. First the ipod.

I haven't a clue what I've done to it. All I did was plug the dang thing in to recharge a dead battery. When I turned it on a funny screen popped up and said "plug me back in idiot I need to restore myself." Okey dokey... so I'm letting it do it's thing and I'm sincerely hoping that that small piece of equipment is smart enough to fix itself because I certainly am not.

Now the camera. I've lost the charger. Yes, lost it. Turned my house upside down more than once looking for it to no avail. So I called RadioShack and was told that "yes we have a universal charger that will work." With my very first trip to Moab coming up tomorrow (more on that for sure later) I rushed off to pick it up before close.

It was $46.00! And the freaking kicker IT DOESN'T WORK! Oh, my camera model is listed on the package as one that is suitable to this UNIVERSAL PIECE OF CRAP. Deep breath here.

Okay. So I'm still without a charger and out $46.00 until I get back in town and return it. So frustrated. Lucky for me we have our old camera that still works.

Adios Mexico

2008-08-24T17:25:00.001-07:00

Time to go home.

Siete

2008-08-24T17:09:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh the last day.

I've been on vacations where I'm so ready to go home that it's almost agonizing to stay away for another minute. Conversely I've been on others where there just wasn't enough time, I wasn't refreshed and hadn't done all that I wanted to. This vacation was just right.

Perfect in fact.

I was happy that our time was almost up, we'd done the things we wanted to and we'd had plenty of time to soak in the sun and just relax.

Today we took a bike tour of the city and saw some magnificent homes. Yep, if I had more money than I knew what to do with, we'll I'd purchase a house in Mexico - on the beach. Afterward we spent more time on the beach and then a storm rolled in. It was a thunderstorm without the rain. But we didn't' know that at first and it provided us the motivation to get inside and start packing for the trip tomorrow.

After the threat had passed we went back out for more beach fun. Lucky for us, the hotel was setting up for a dinner on the beach so we snuck a photo.

Seises

2008-08-24T16:42:00.000-07:00

Sleep in, never!

So once again I can't sleep in, I wake Lane long enough to tell him I'll meet him for breakfast on the beach and I head to the gym. The pilates instructor was looking bored, walking in circles. I smiled at her and headed to the treadmill. She asked "cardio?" I said yes, but is there a class today?

Her reply? "only if you would like"

Hmmmm private pilates - lemme see. "Sure!"

After that and a quick run on the treadmill I went to meet my honey for another one of those scrumptious yogurt parfaits. We decided to get some shopping done and headed out to 5th Ave.

I love watching Lane haggle - he's so good at it. I on the other hand am not and simply walkaway if the price seems too high. That actually worked out for us on one occasion. Lane was trying to purchase a sombrero, when I walked away and said that's ridiculous, Lane was able to talk the guy down to half of the first price.

The rest of the day was as relaxing as the rest of our resort days.

The evening turned fairly interesting though. Seeing as how our drinks were paid for, we decided to belly-up to the bar. Now if you know me at all, you know that I am not a drinker, one glass of wine and I'm giggly, more than two well, you may as well just put me to bed because I get so sleepy!

The bartender was so entertaining I'm sorry we didn't have our cameras. He made drinks that were on fire and we drank them through straws, cool shots, hot shots and very strong margaritas (that Lane drank because the smell of tequila makes my stomach do flip flops).

Fun times were had by all.

Cinco

2008-08-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Ruins, Zip-Lines and Cenotes...Coba

Today we went to Coba, an ancient Mayan city. Why Coba and not Tulum or Chichen-Itza? Well, because we wanted to climb the ruins and Coba is the only site that will still let you do that. Also, this tour included a zip-line adventure and swimming in a cenote or freshwater sinkhole.

The zip-line was NOT worth it. The but the rest of the tour certainly was. At the ruin site we opted to walk to the tallest pyramid in the city, the one that you can climb...and I chickened out. Holy crap that was scary - so I went half way up. The thing that struck me most was that only a small percentage of Coba has been recovered from the jungle. But wow - what we saw was so amazing.

The only downside to the ruin site was the heat. And oh the humidity. My legs were dripping with sweat. Who sweats from their shins??

After a traditional Mayan lunch we headed off for the zip-line and the cenote. We had the privilege of meeting locals who shared their land with us, their cenote - which is where they get their drinking water. Before we went swimming a Mayan shaman performed a ceremony. It was to ensure our safe passage into and out of the sinkhole. I was awestruck. Lane and I both agree that the ceremony alone was worth the tour.

We had to repel into the sinkhole and climb out on a rickety rope ladder. The water was so extremely cold that it took my breath away. After the initial shock, I started to explore. We couldn't see much because well - we were 30ft underground, in a cave. But, if we all held still and just floated we could see all the way to the bottom, crystal blue water. Very cool.

Quattro

2008-08-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

A lazy day...

I think I'm liking this every other day routine we've started here on vacation. One day out exploring, one day relaxing.

Today started out like just about everyday for me, in the gym. Pilates is included here so of course I'm all about taking advantage of no cost sessions. The instructor, Jesus, was very easy on the eyes which made the hour long class seem like mere minutes.

The rest of the day was spent relaxing at the beach and pool reading and watching Lane play volleyball. The cabana boy - actually he's more of a man - gave us one of the nicest cabanas. "The VIP and his wife are out at Cozumel today, you can have this one." OUCH, stop twisting my arm please.

Non-motorized sports are also included, so we ventured down to the kayaks thinking we'd try our hand a paddling in the ocean, never mind the wind and crashing waves. We were quickly talked into sailing on a catamaran instead. We could have taken it out ourselves, but seeing how neither one of us know how to manage a sailboat, we asked for the 'guided ride.'

We had so much fun I started to think that I would forgo all other plans for the week and just ride around on a small Castaway like raft for the rest of our time in Mexico. Our skipper took us so far off shore that for a minute I was getting nervous. That is until he told us that he'd taken that boat all the way to Cozumel and back and oh by they way he fishes for marlin off of it.

Tonight we went to 5th Ave. for dinner and a little window shopping. (If we look a bit like drowned rats, well that's because a 5 mintue downpour hit while we were wandering the shopping district). I don't think there are enough avocados in this country to satisfy my appetite for fresh guacamole. Oh and if anyone knows how to - and is willing - to teach me how to make tamales - well then I may just cut off my right arm and give it to you.

Tres

2008-08-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

Sunscreen and research may have been helpful...

Lane is a shade lighter than a tomato. Should have listened to me when I suggested sunscreen. In most of the photos you'll see I will be hauling our backpack - Lane kept crying that it hurt his tender shoulders...eh em...SUNSCREEN!

Oh and a money saving tip, BYO Aloe. It cost me $13!!!!

+++

To be perfectly honest I just didn't care to spend anytime looking into the area. I knew the hotel had a beach, a pool and I'd be near shopping, ruins and snorkeling. What more is there to know?

How about the fact that Cozumel is a ghost town on Sunday?

One of the few things I didn't like about the service at our hotel - the concierge didn't bother to mention that fact when we told her our plans to ferry over to the island and asked for directions.

The short ferry ride over was nice. We even managed to book our snorkeling "adventure" while on the boat.

Man or fish? Our guide, I think, was a bit of both. That man could hold his breath forever. He would dive down swim around, turn over on his back and blow bubbles that looked like smoke rings. I dare say he was the most interesting sight in the water. I was a little disappointed we didn't see more brightly colored fish.

After our tour we hit the island. Someone had recommended renting a scooter and driving around and explore. We tried and failed to negotiate with the locals for a deal on a scooter. The guy wanted us to either leave a credit card or a significant amount of cash as a deposit. RIGHT, let's get something straight here - there is no way I'm leaving you $500 in cash. Oh and he wouldn't take American Express...seemed fishier and fishier so we passed and decided to walk.

That's when we realised that Cozumel on Sunday looks a lot like Venice. Deserted.

We hit the few shops that were open, haggled for some sunglasses, grabbed lunch at the only open restaurant and hopped the ferry back to the main land to rest up and dress up for dinner at one of the nicer restaurants at the hotel.

Dos

2008-08-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

My kind of day..
1. Try to sleep in, give up and hit the gym.
2. Eat yogurt, fruit and fresh granola drizzled with honey for breakfast. Mayan honey is so great. 3. Lounge at the beach and read
4. Hit the pool and swim up bar
5. Go back to the beach and read some more
5. Attempt to play tennis
6. Eat a late dinner and
7. Enjoy a romantic walk on the beach

Mexico Day Uno

2008-08-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

Why we all just loathe the airline industry...

Checking in for our non-stop Delta flight to Cancun was a freaking joke. My passport still reads Debra Price on the photo page, but had been amended to read Debra Farka. I had it done shortly after Lane and I got married so I could visit him in Korea.

Now when I sent in my $60 for the change to be made, I expected more than a dot matrix printed sentence that reads, and I quote - "this passport was amended on December 12, 2003 to read Debra Farka." Yeah, I know, $60 for something I could have done on my home computer. These days they just issue you a new one.. but I digress.

So we went to the kiosk to check in and when asked to swipe my passport I was denied. "The passport and the ticket name do not match." After several more attempts Lane waved over an agent. I was informed that I would have to go wait in the very long "special" check-in line. I'm not exaggerating when I tell you that I waited in that line for over an hour.

So I get to the desk and the not-so-friendly agent informs me that he'll have to reissue my ticket in my maiden name and that it would cost me $150. Um, NO! It's been amended. I politely ask him to check the dot matrix print and he ignored me and proceeded to try and reissue my ticket.
"What does this say right here ma'am?"

"Debra Price"

"Right, you live by your passport when traveling out of the country"

"I understand, please flip the page, it's been amended,"

"we'll it's going to be $150 for the reissue"

"You're not listening, please check this page."

"Oh, hmmm well I guess you'll be okay then. remember you live by your passport."

Thanks man. Got it. After several cleansing breaths off I went to find Lane and our travelling companions who were in the security line.

About 6 hours later (flight and shuttle ride included) we made it to our hotel. At the check-in desk we were asked if we'd like to upgrade to the Adult-only all inclusive hotel next door for a small fee. We walked into the lobby and marched ourselves right back over and took the upgrade. Yep, the lobby (no kids and private beach) was all it took.

Our room was amazing, private terrace with hammock, hot tub for two and huge bed. I'm telling you if you're planning a trip to Playa Del Carmen do yourself a favor and book this hotel. The Royal.

The passport fiasco was soon a fading memory...

Seriously?

2008-07-29T06:25:00.001-07:00

Who mows the lawn at 10:00 p.m.?

Apparently one of my neighbors, that's who. I'm an early to bed, early to rise kind of girl - so you can imagine my annoyance at their late night lawn care routine. Lane has no problem falling right asleep, I swear he could sleep while a train rolled through our bedroom. But, I digress..

So, my simple request would be to be neighborly and finish your yard work at a more decent hour.

Hooray for Holidays

2008-07-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

Why it's the 24th of July - Pioneer Day...

For those of you who read but do not live in Utah or know much about it, we get an extra holiday here. Yes, Utah celebrates the Mormon Pioneers who first settled in Utah. Oh how I'm so glad that they do, because I'm sitting at home right now enjoying the Today Show and relishing the fact that I don't have to run out the door to get to work. Ahhhhh.

****

I haven't posted much because CONFESSION - I was hoping I'd have more responses to that meme. How vain and lame is that one?

****

And because we're getting ready to go to Mexico here in about a week. Hold on a second while I do my happy dance. Lane and I haven't been on a real vacation that doesn't include visiting family for almost four years.

We're headed to Playa del Carmen - and yes I'm aware that right now a hurricane is battering just north of that city.

And I don't care.

Because I'M GOING ON VACATION (more happy dancing).

Common - play along, please?

2008-07-18T06:53:00.001-07:00

Here's one of those fun things called a meme...

Here are the rules for this meme:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.

Bring on the trip down memory lane.

Weekend Adventures

2008-07-15T17:04:00.000-07:00

So Lane's newest fever is mountain biking...

If you know us at all you know what I mean when I say 'fever'. He's enjoyed mountain biking for some time, but hasn't had a bike of his own, until recently. We decided to borrow a bike for me and went up to SnowBasin with some friends to try out an 'easy' trail, the Green Pond Loop.

So easy is relative. The uphill, no problem. The down is where things get a bit shaky for me. Simply put - I'm a chicken. I had great fun figuring out the bike and checking out the scenery and with more practice I think (maybe) I'll loose some of that fear.

As we're finishing the ride I started to gain some confidence since I hadn't fallen....and then coming around the last corner I ate it. Fell off the bike and hit my knee on a rock.

No worries, no permanent damage. I'm just glad no one saw it. Lane was sure proud, I'm just sorry we didn't get any photos.

My sister Jen and her family are here visiting. Lane and I got to babysit Owen while mama and daddy went to a wedding. Being the good Auntie and Uncle that we are...we took Owen to the TreeHouse Museum. He's a little young for most of it, but I think he got a kick out of the cool toys and musical instruments. Lane is in the chair alone because Owen wasn't having any of that. (I don't blame him, big scary lady chair thing).

Me and Owen practicing for our budding musical careers. Stay posted for tour dates.

Owen and Uncle Laner playing a quick game of chess. I'm pretty sure O won.

Farka Family News

2008-07-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

Babies anyone?

Before you get too excited... this is not an announcement for me and Lane.

My sister Jen, is expecting a new bundle of joy in February and Lane's sister Paula is expecting in March. We're so excited to have two more little ones to call us Auntie Debbie and Uncle Laner.

Congratulations Jen and Jared and Paula and Greg!

Took a Nap Today

2008-07-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

And it was wonderful.

Jen, Jared and Owen got in last night at a little past midnight, or would that be this morning? So needless to say, I was up way past my bedtime.

I highly recommend taking a nap, soon.

On tomorrows to do list:
pilates
trail run
TreeHouse Museum with Owen
and a good-bye party for a dear friend

What are you up to?

Holiday Weekend Review

2008-07-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

Mother and Father Farka (aka Big Debbie and Big Lane) came by for a visit...

Lane's mom and dad decided to visit us for the holiday weekend and we had a great time! We spent some time watching Lane play softball - he's on 3 teams this summer - and they won the game pictured here.

Mother Farka decided that Park City shopping, Alpine Slide and ZipLine sounded like fun and who am I to argue with shopping? So we headed up to PC on Thursday. I love the photo of Debbie waiting to go on the ZipLine. We heard her laughing all the way down the mountain.

Friday was spent golfing, I forgot my camera, and it was so HOT. Thankfully mother nature sent some cloud cover and a slight breeze over. I can't say it was my best game ever but Lane and Lane played well.

The rest of the weekend we spent in the yard working, cleaning the garage and just relaxing. Debbie wanted to help me spruce up my back flower bed. (Remember the weed infestation that Mom helped me with a few weeks ago - yeah it was back). We planted some flowers and added new mulch. It was a lot of work but it sure looks pretty now. I can't thank her enough for spending her vacation doing my yard work!

That's about it. Now I'm looking forward to a visit from Jen, Jared and Owen this weekend and shortly after that MEXICO!

Holy Crap

2008-07-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

So for the last hour or so I've been blog-stalking...

My ten year class reunion is next year and the link off to the side there has given me lots of blogs to peruse. Blogs of friends and schoolmates past. It made me think of how lax I've been in keeping in touch with friends.

It also made me feel old - ten years!

It also made me feel like I'm behind in the whole baby, starting a family thing. There are girls I went to school with that have four children! (All of you are beautiful and you're children are absolutely darling).

That's all, just a thought.

Ta-Dah!

2008-07-03T20:12:00.001-07:00

A picture snack, if you will... To tide you over until the slide show is done.

Team Que Passus
The Ride

Look how super fast I am...piggie tails flying
Sorry he's turned the wrong way..but here is Mr. Honey Bucket. Hey man, welcome to Meet The Farka's!

It Has Been One of Those Days

2008-06-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

Okay so I know there still aren't any relay photos, I promise they are coming!

But on to today.

It started out just fine, up and at 'em ready for work and off I went to a health fair at a local company. One of the participants must have woken up on the wrong side of the bed today because well - he was really rude to me - twice.

Then I forgot to bring my gym bag in to the office. So in my hot car it sat all day. Not usually a problem, unless you have deodorant melting and running all over everything in the bag. Messy!

And then, I had to pee really badly while I was at the store purchasing new deodorant. Off to the public restroom I went. Hovered over the loo and reached for the charmin...but oh what's this? Of course there's no charmin there and no other ladies in the room. GREAT! So that was my day. How was yours?

Wasatch Back Relay - Que Passus

2008-06-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

The Wasatch Back Relay is an 'easy' 180 mile run divided by 12 runners over two days and yes it was a blast, again! This year we finished in a little over 28 hours just a few minutes over our time from 2007.

A few thoughts, memories and lessons learned:

1 - Electrolytes or Die!
Okay so last year I got sick and blamed it on the Fazolies (I didn't know any better), but more than likely it was the same ailment that I faced this year...a lack of electrolytes. I hate Gatorade and poweraid so I usually just stick to good ol' H2O. After my second run I started to feel pretty icky, stomach cramps and head spinning - me "ugh I didn't eat Fazolies this year! What's the problem!?" Thank goodness Nurse Breein was in the car to quickly diagnose my problem. After downing some Gatorade and a multivitamin packed with magnesium and about an hour wait I felt much better and ready to run my last leg of the race! An easy 1400 ft climb over Gardsman pass. Crisis averted.

2 - Lock the Honey Bucket
A Honey Bucket - or Port-O-Potty - should be locked at all times. Seems simple enough. Well for one guy during the race it was not. Nature was calling and it was almost my turn to run my first 3.5 mile leg of the race so off to the Honey Bucket I went. After careful observation showed that the bucket was unoccupied (green handle) I proceeded to enter and very quickly slammed the door shut because there was a very surprised man inside, hiking up his pants.

Me: (picture bright red face here) I'm so sorry it wasn't locked.

Him: Yeah, cuz I'm in a hurry.

Me: You should still lock the door.

Him: Uh, Welcome to the Wasatch Back

Me: Thanks, I guess.

So I took a picture of him on his run so he could be immortalized on my blog. That's coming soon.

3 - My forehead must say "talk to me, I can help"
On my second very dark and lonely run near Echo Reservoir I met a man whom I will call Eeyore. I was nearing the end of this 10K jaunt when I heard the crunching footfalls of a runner coming up behind me. (okay, yeah I got passed a few times) Eeyore slowed his pace, fell in beside me and asked how I was.

Me: Good thanks and you?

Eeyore: I'm depressed

Me: (thinking he was kidding) giggled and said why? running too slow?

Him: No, my fiancee just broke it off with me two weeks ago and I'm having a hard time. I just need to talk.

Me: (okay we're climbing a steep hill here, so picture me a little out of breath) Okay, talk away as long as you run at my pace, I'll listen.

I'll spare you the rest, but he ran with me talking about his fiancee and how sad he was for at least a mile. Hang in there Eeyore - if it's meant to be it will be.

4 - Hang on to the timing chip
The timing chip for this race is like those slap bracelets we used to play with when we were kids. Remember those? Anyway it's your timing chip and baton that is passed from runner to runner. Well... it should be anyway. Runner number 11, Jared, was on his second leg of the race, its around 1:00 a.m. and a bit chilly out. After running a mile or so he warmed right up, took off his sweatshirt, tossed it in the van and kept on running. The problem here is the timing/slap/bracelet/baton went flying when he took of his shirt. WHOOPS. Yeah we need that only we didn't - or he didn't notice - until he was close to passing off to runner 12.

Don't worry we found it. Or a runner did and turned it in for us. Thank you unknown runner!

5 - Great support means everything!
Everyone was so supportive during the race, my team other teams and my hubby Lane. He surprised me at the finish line. Thanks Love!

I'll let the photos tell the rest of the story. I'm working on a slide show now. I hope to have it here soon.

It's a Race, It's a Race!

2008-06-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

We’ll folks it’s that time of year again…

What time you ask? Time for the Wasatch Back Relay! Last year I got a wild hair and decided that a 178 mile relay race, in the middle of June, would be a rip snortin good time. So after blindly stumbling through managing a team of 12 runners, Team Que Passus, last year I decided to do it again.

That's me and Breein shopping for van decorations today. Don't we look fabulous?

Let me say this it was hot at times, freezing at others, miserable, extremely difficult (the course runs from Logan to Park City up and over dusty mountain passes and through some of the most beautiful Utah landscape, but I digress) and one of the most challenging and FUN races I’ve ever done.

Lots more to come on this for sure, check back after this weekend for updates. We start running Friday and will be done sometime Saturday, that’s right – it takes more than 24 hours to finish. Don’t you think that sounds fun?

Oh I almost forgot!! The local newspaper, the Standard Examiner called today and interviewed me. Her story is about the relay and funny team names...I guess we fit that bill! The story should run this Thursday.