Eric was amazed that he could spot real life Waldo's everywhere when he is so difficult to spot in those darn books. I should have gotten pics of Wald but didn't. Instead here are some photos of our Bay to Breakers day activities at the park.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Where's Waldos?
Last weekend was the annual Bay to Breakers run in San Francisco so this is a very pertinent question for Eric to be asking. We took E & Noah over to Alta Vista Park & had lunch at the crepe place on Fillmore street. An entire community of people out of the estimated 70,000 runners dress up like Waldo making him fairly easy to spot. Eric was spotting Waldo all over the city all afternoon. While the run begins downtown at 8am it takes most of the day for many of those Runners (in costumes) to make it from the finish line at the beach back to their homes. So all over the city, far from the race route, in random places you may see Snow White, a man in chaps (and nothing else), 80's dressed jazzercisers, or Where's Waldo. We once saw a clown "resting" after the race on the pavement, feet dangling over the duck pond. Classic. Momma and Dadda have participated several times. You don't run for time. You run for the experience.
Eric was amazed that he could spot real life Waldo's everywhere when he is so difficult to spot in those darn books. I should have gotten pics of Wald but didn't. Instead here are some photos of our Bay to Breakers day activities at the park.
Eric was amazed that he could spot real life Waldo's everywhere when he is so difficult to spot in those darn books. I should have gotten pics of Wald but didn't. Instead here are some photos of our Bay to Breakers day activities at the park.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
I love the way you call me Momma
This is Momma's (that's me) first Mother's Day as a mother of not one, but two beautiful boys.
I am in awe every day as I look at there happy faces and watch them grow, their personalities emerge, that I have been the chance to bring them into this world and guide them along their paths.
Eric is three and a half .He is sweet, sincere, and imaginative. He is also ambitious, determined, head-strong, courageous, and speedy. He knows exactly what he wants and he goes after it after careful calculation.
Noah is now two and a half months. He is sweet and sensitive. He is calm and happy. He is 11 pounds 7 ounces and 22 inches. He has a good appetite and smiles at the sounds of our voices and at the smiles on our faces. His eyes are as big and bright as his brothers and I see so much familiarity in is face. I am going to be bold and say that he resembles me and sometimes I see expressions that mirror my mother's expressions.
Today, I caught Noah smiling and kooing at Eric. It made Eric so happy to get some attention from Noah. Eric smiled and giggled back at him. Of course it melted my heart. These boys are going to great pals.
For Mother's Day the boys surprised me with tomato plants and other seeds that we all planted together today. Eric and I spend a lot of time in our yard with our gardening gloves on and I have been wanting to plant tomatoes so this was perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better Mother's day. Spending the putzing in the dirt in the yard was perfect. This on the heals of getting to go to yoga (by myself - not mom/baby yoga) yesterday AND get my hair done in the city. I was definitely spoiled this weekend.
When Eric was born our lives came to a screeching and sudden halt. I did NOTHING but pump milk and go to the hospital. I didn't listen to music, watch movies, go for runs, meet with friends, have guests over, go out to eat, go to the store, ride my bike.....nothing. There was nothing in our lives besides Eric, hospital, and - for Aaron- trying to work. When Eric was Noah's age we very slowly starting re-incorporated the things we loved back into our lives . Noah being born a blessed full-term big, healthy baby we are experiencing incorporating him into all we do. I must say this is a profound and welcomed difference. Noah gets to come along on the ride and hear so much laughter (from us and his brother) and be with parents who aren't worn down from spending three stressful months prior in the hospital.
Eric is a beautiful miracle of a boy to have arrived at 26 weeks and 2 days and be the thriving little boy he is. Noah is a beautiful miracle to have achieved a goal of full term and be the health happy boy he is. I am filled with gratitude to have experienced both. I am a better mother because of these experiences, not letting the normal hard stuff (like being awake with both kids at 1:00am or Eric having ZERO interest in potty training) get me down because after all it is NORMAL; and as my wise sister-in-law and mother of three says when things seem tough, "It is just a phase and it will pass." I also don't let the small stuff like "spilled milk" or even finger-nail polish on the rug get to me because, well, messes happen and they can be cleaned up. It's ok. In fact when Eric spills something now he looks at me and says "its ok" and I look right back at him say "it sure is!"
Thank you for this blessing of motherhood.
Happy Mother's Day to all the Mama's!
Eric is three and a half .He is sweet, sincere, and imaginative. He is also ambitious, determined, head-strong, courageous, and speedy. He knows exactly what he wants and he goes after it after careful calculation.
Noah is now two and a half months. He is sweet and sensitive. He is calm and happy. He is 11 pounds 7 ounces and 22 inches. He has a good appetite and smiles at the sounds of our voices and at the smiles on our faces. His eyes are as big and bright as his brothers and I see so much familiarity in is face. I am going to be bold and say that he resembles me and sometimes I see expressions that mirror my mother's expressions.
Today, I caught Noah smiling and kooing at Eric. It made Eric so happy to get some attention from Noah. Eric smiled and giggled back at him. Of course it melted my heart. These boys are going to great pals.
For Mother's Day the boys surprised me with tomato plants and other seeds that we all planted together today. Eric and I spend a lot of time in our yard with our gardening gloves on and I have been wanting to plant tomatoes so this was perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better Mother's day. Spending the putzing in the dirt in the yard was perfect. This on the heals of getting to go to yoga (by myself - not mom/baby yoga) yesterday AND get my hair done in the city. I was definitely spoiled this weekend.
When Eric was born our lives came to a screeching and sudden halt. I did NOTHING but pump milk and go to the hospital. I didn't listen to music, watch movies, go for runs, meet with friends, have guests over, go out to eat, go to the store, ride my bike.....nothing. There was nothing in our lives besides Eric, hospital, and - for Aaron- trying to work. When Eric was Noah's age we very slowly starting re-incorporated the things we loved back into our lives . Noah being born a blessed full-term big, healthy baby we are experiencing incorporating him into all we do. I must say this is a profound and welcomed difference. Noah gets to come along on the ride and hear so much laughter (from us and his brother) and be with parents who aren't worn down from spending three stressful months prior in the hospital.
Eric is a beautiful miracle of a boy to have arrived at 26 weeks and 2 days and be the thriving little boy he is. Noah is a beautiful miracle to have achieved a goal of full term and be the health happy boy he is. I am filled with gratitude to have experienced both. I am a better mother because of these experiences, not letting the normal hard stuff (like being awake with both kids at 1:00am or Eric having ZERO interest in potty training) get me down because after all it is NORMAL; and as my wise sister-in-law and mother of three says when things seem tough, "It is just a phase and it will pass." I also don't let the small stuff like "spilled milk" or even finger-nail polish on the rug get to me because, well, messes happen and they can be cleaned up. It's ok. In fact when Eric spills something now he looks at me and says "its ok" and I look right back at him say "it sure is!"
Thank you for this blessing of motherhood.
Happy Mother's Day to all the Mama's!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Happy 2 months & Happy Birthday Dada
Speaking of big boys, Eric is getting more used to having Noah in his world and shows him off proudly to his friends. Eric is still more interested in Noah's gear than Noah. Turning on and off his swing, bouncy seat, or music. Although he does get down and close and talk to him and kiss is forehead from time to time and he likes to hold Noah's hand. He also gets quite a concerned look on his face when Noah is screaming and quickly tells me, "Momma, Noah is hungry again!"
Noah is sleeping for longer stretches now sometimes five our six hours. We have struck a happy balance of nursing and formula. We learned the first month, after Noah hadn't regained his birth weight, that my milk production wasn't keeping up. So we became a little milk factory over here breast feeding, pumping, and bottle feeding. Sounds simple enough right? Well, insert washing pumping supplies and bottles and a a good amount of burping time and you will realize why we never answer the phone around here. We are all amped up on this activity for about a week or so and now found a happy place that we can maintain with a whole let less expectations and guilt. Happy, weight-gaining baby = success. Happy, rested, momma = success.
Love his little tuft of hair here. Sometimes when the sun light hits it just right we think Oma will get the red hair she is hoping for, but Eric teased us with red hairs too and then it turned blondey blond. I imagine Noah will be a blond too.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April fun photos
Here are some pictures of what has been happening around here this month. Noah is doing well. Everyone is getting more acquainted. Noah is putting on weight an is now 9 pounds 4 oz, a good eater, loves to be held, walked in the carrier, and smiles when he is feeling good. The smiles are a real boost during a 3 am snack time! His temperment is sweet and mellow but he can scream louder than any baby we heard when he wants to (signaling gas, hunger, or you stopped moving the stroller Mom).
Pictures....
Pictures....
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Friday, April 02, 2010
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Happy one month birthday
It has been one month since Eric welcomed his little brother Noah into his world. Eric has been adjusting and we have all been adapting to our new family dynamic. Eric is very sweet towards Noah and very onrey with his parents, constantly testing us and trying new things to get attention both negative and positive. Doesn't matter to him as all attention in Eric's eyes is good attention.
We have had a break-threw on sleep and finally figured out that despite my constant feedings Noah just isn't getting enough milk from me. Once we started supplementing each feeding with formula he started sleeping better, even in his bassinet, and at longer stretches. Longer being three to fours at a time. He now finishes a meal with a full belly and we are all much happier.
Noah's favorite place to sleep is in our arms and snuggled in on someone. This means good sleep for him but not so great sleep for the rest of us.
Photo shoot time:
Noah has blue eyes and the same mouth and nose as Eric. He is the long, monkey arms that Momma had, and the signature DelloIacono Thies long, narrow feet and long toes. His hair is tufted blonde and seems to get lighter and longer each day.
More quality snuggling and snoozing with Momma.
Aunt Susie and cousins Sam, Maylen, 5 month old Addison come over to meet Noah and play, play, play.
This is the pear tree blossoming outside our front door. We have had some really nice weather and spring is here so Momma and Noah plan to be outside more playing with big bro Eric.
Momma & her boys. Eric is intent on watching Toy Story which is the movie of the month and we have seen hundreds of times watching while Momma nurses.
We have had a break-threw on sleep and finally figured out that despite my constant feedings Noah just isn't getting enough milk from me. Once we started supplementing each feeding with formula he started sleeping better, even in his bassinet, and at longer stretches. Longer being three to fours at a time. He now finishes a meal with a full belly and we are all much happier.
Noah's favorite place to sleep is in our arms and snuggled in on someone. This means good sleep for him but not so great sleep for the rest of us.
Photo shoot time:
Noah has blue eyes and the same mouth and nose as Eric. He is the long, monkey arms that Momma had, and the signature DelloIacono Thies long, narrow feet and long toes. His hair is tufted blonde and seems to get lighter and longer each day.
More quality snuggling and snoozing with Momma.
Aunt Susie and cousins Sam, Maylen, 5 month old Addison come over to meet Noah and play, play, play.
This is the pear tree blossoming outside our front door. We have had some really nice weather and spring is here so Momma and Noah plan to be outside more playing with big bro Eric.
Momma & her boys. Eric is intent on watching Toy Story which is the movie of the month and we have seen hundreds of times watching while Momma nurses.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Catching you up
First off I am posting some picks that are probably only of interest to Momma. Also I am typing this one-handed as I hold Noah so excuse all typos:)
This is the parking garage outside our post-pardum room at CPMC in San Francisco. We are all to familiar with this place given the time spent coming and going from this wonderful hospital and I just wanted to document this scene on Cherry at California street for my own records. Behind the garage you will also see the pedi's office that guided us so well in our care for Eric. I also am posting a second picture from out the window looking off the other direction out towards our former neighborhood of the Richmond district - just for my own fun.
Here are some other scenes to bring you all up to speed.
Happy to be holding Noah post-pardum. The tired look in Momma's eyes will persist on this blog for many more photos but so does the smile. Dadda's eye still bright here but this won't last. As of now - on Noah's one month birthday - we are very familiar with the scheduled info-mmercials that run in the wee hours with personal favorite being the Brazilian Butt Master (seriously? Who is this guy?). We also know what time the morning paper arrives and what time each of our neighbors gets up.
Eric hold's Noah now that he is pink eye free!
Aunt Courtney, Uncle Sean, and Grandma Lorraine visit. Courtney is a natural.
On our first family outing to the Oakland Zoo with our friends the Morlans - Eric is good buddies with Aemon & Noah and Roane are likely to be friends as well.
Cute!
Noah loves his hands up around his face just like he was 90% of the times we saw pics in utero.
More one handed blogging of our adventures to come......
This is the parking garage outside our post-pardum room at CPMC in San Francisco. We are all to familiar with this place given the time spent coming and going from this wonderful hospital and I just wanted to document this scene on Cherry at California street for my own records. Behind the garage you will also see the pedi's office that guided us so well in our care for Eric. I also am posting a second picture from out the window looking off the other direction out towards our former neighborhood of the Richmond district - just for my own fun.
Here are some other scenes to bring you all up to speed.Happy to be holding Noah post-pardum. The tired look in Momma's eyes will persist on this blog for many more photos but so does the smile. Dadda's eye still bright here but this won't last. As of now - on Noah's one month birthday - we are very familiar with the scheduled info-mmercials that run in the wee hours with personal favorite being the Brazilian Butt Master (seriously? Who is this guy?). We also know what time the morning paper arrives and what time each of our neighbors gets up.
Eric hold's Noah now that he is pink eye free!
Aunt Courtney, Uncle Sean, and Grandma Lorraine visit. Courtney is a natural.
On our first family outing to the Oakland Zoo with our friends the Morlans - Eric is good buddies with Aemon & Noah and Roane are likely to be friends as well.
Cute!
Noah loves his hands up around his face just like he was 90% of the times we saw pics in utero.
More one handed blogging of our adventures to come......
Monday, March 08, 2010
Priceless experiences, beautiful scenery: endurance & stamina required
What has Eric been up to lately? Well, more than Momma can mention in just one blog. Prior to welcoming his new brother Noah he was performing figure skating and down hill ski runs in the family room while Momma watched him an the 2010 Winter 0lympics in Vancover from her perch on the couch.
Here are some picks of Momma at 36 weeks pregnant with baby brother Noah Tyler who arrived in perfect form February 27 at 8:03am. Labor and delivery was all Momma & Dadda could have ever hoped for, textbook! A familiar and exciting labor story that I will share more later.
Meet Noah Tyler DelloIacono Thies weighing 7 lbs and 8oz and 20 inches long. Those little feet Momma has been patting from her belly are not so little and he is the signature DelloIacono Thies long toes and long narrow feet. His eye already sparkle blue and there are light brown blonde tufts of hair on his head. He is perfect, healthy, and beautiful.
We have been home with baby brother Noah for one week, emotions and hormones running high. Sleep and self-care running low. Dadda is working hard to be our steady support and midnight shuttle to CPMC. Momma is working on the kinks in breast feeding, dealing with her mind-of-its-own uterus, and helping Noah adjust to his home. Eric is adjusting to a baby Noah with a roller coaster of emotion telling neighbors "we have a baby Noah". Eric, too, is running low on sleep through all the excitement. Grandma Lorraine is working overtime to keep laundry clean, Eric happy, our house stocked with food, our bathrooms clean, and Noah soothed. She has also had to explain to Eric twice now in the middle of the night that Momma & Dadda had to make a run to the hospital and will be back soon. Phewww...stamina and endurance....a must in this household.
Much like and ultra-marathon, which Momma has yet to add to her running resume (never say never), bringing a new baby home to house in which a toddler reins supreme King is both a complete rush and an experience I would recommend to anyone. There is no other job that leaves you wondering how it is noon and you haven't found time to eat, drink, or perform your own self-care (bathroom, brush teeth etc). Here is a quick update on the state of this beautiful household before I have to jump from my computer and feed the baby, hug big brother, or shout out a favor to Dadda and Grandma:
- Momma & Dadda have made two trips (one evening, and one midnight runs)to CPMC to find out that Momma's tempermental uterus is now so relaxed it needs some help contracting back. Gotta love drugs.
- Dadda has made four runs to CPMC in 1 week: 1 for baby Noah's arrival, 2 for Momma's now-resolved issues, and 1 for treatment of Eric's pink eye
- Momma's routine is feed Noah, rock Noah, change Noah (maybe 2-3 times per hour -he is a good eater), nurses her nipples in hopes of maintaining their integrity for the next feeding which could be as soon as one hour, going to the bathroom and changing her own "diaper" (sorry for TMI but who cares), maybe getting something to drink before starting all over
- Eric wakes up excited to go to Stella's birthday party and ends up being shuttled from birthday to CPMC to treat Pink Eye
- Grandma is maintaing. Thank God for Grandma's
Here are some picks of Momma at 36 weeks pregnant with baby brother Noah Tyler who arrived in perfect form February 27 at 8:03am. Labor and delivery was all Momma & Dadda could have ever hoped for, textbook! A familiar and exciting labor story that I will share more later.
Meet Noah Tyler DelloIacono Thies weighing 7 lbs and 8oz and 20 inches long. Those little feet Momma has been patting from her belly are not so little and he is the signature DelloIacono Thies long toes and long narrow feet. His eye already sparkle blue and there are light brown blonde tufts of hair on his head. He is perfect, healthy, and beautiful.
We have been home with baby brother Noah for one week, emotions and hormones running high. Sleep and self-care running low. Dadda is working hard to be our steady support and midnight shuttle to CPMC. Momma is working on the kinks in breast feeding, dealing with her mind-of-its-own uterus, and helping Noah adjust to his home. Eric is adjusting to a baby Noah with a roller coaster of emotion telling neighbors "we have a baby Noah". Eric, too, is running low on sleep through all the excitement. Grandma Lorraine is working overtime to keep laundry clean, Eric happy, our house stocked with food, our bathrooms clean, and Noah soothed. She has also had to explain to Eric twice now in the middle of the night that Momma & Dadda had to make a run to the hospital and will be back soon. Phewww...stamina and endurance....a must in this household.
Much like and ultra-marathon, which Momma has yet to add to her running resume (never say never), bringing a new baby home to house in which a toddler reins supreme King is both a complete rush and an experience I would recommend to anyone. There is no other job that leaves you wondering how it is noon and you haven't found time to eat, drink, or perform your own self-care (bathroom, brush teeth etc). Here is a quick update on the state of this beautiful household before I have to jump from my computer and feed the baby, hug big brother, or shout out a favor to Dadda and Grandma:
- Momma & Dadda have made two trips (one evening, and one midnight runs)to CPMC to find out that Momma's tempermental uterus is now so relaxed it needs some help contracting back. Gotta love drugs.
- Dadda has made four runs to CPMC in 1 week: 1 for baby Noah's arrival, 2 for Momma's now-resolved issues, and 1 for treatment of Eric's pink eye
- Momma's routine is feed Noah, rock Noah, change Noah (maybe 2-3 times per hour -he is a good eater), nurses her nipples in hopes of maintaining their integrity for the next feeding which could be as soon as one hour, going to the bathroom and changing her own "diaper" (sorry for TMI but who cares), maybe getting something to drink before starting all over
- Eric wakes up excited to go to Stella's birthday party and ends up being shuttled from birthday to CPMC to treat Pink Eye
- Grandma is maintaing. Thank God for Grandma's
Monday, February 15, 2010
Monday, February 08, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Buddha & enlightenment of a pre-schooler
Our neighbor, Shari, recently put the most elegant looking small statue of a Buddha in her flower garden under a tree. He sits calmly, peacefully, and in perfect contentment on a flat stone that almost makes him appear as if he is floating. When Eric and I were out front he spotted the Buddha immediately. His first comment was "He is in Time Out". I thought about this for a second and said that actually he is time out, not the kind of time out Eric has experienced but a time out from everything except this moment. Buddha is enlightened to his connection to it all. Eric was profoundly correct and didn't even know it. Buddha was detached and connected at the same time.
Kids are always enlightening, forcing us into the present every day, so aware of there surroundings, and so open to the possibilities. Since the first day Eric open his eyes and looked at me (27 weeks)I had this profound feeling that we were about to learn a great deal from each other. Boy was I right. He has looked at me many times with that same look, as if he knows more than I do. In many ways he does. Children have so much to teach us.
Time out was his first reaction to Buddha. Day 2's reaction was "he's crying". Apparently Buddha sent out this emotion that Eric saw as tears. Again, Eric wise beyond his years didn't realize what he just said. Tears are often a release, letting emotions free. I have experienced this release. In yoga when you physically release a tight area in your body that was holding your tension, your anxiety you may find yourself blubbering freely on your mat. My pre-schooler never holds on to his tension. He lets it out regularly, sometimes in public, acting out in ways you sometimes wish were acceptable as an adult (ie throwing your toy across the room because it isn't working - hello!!! computers)
I just got some really good advice from another mom. When you feel the chaos of all the thinking and all the doing (and all the whining) give yourself a time out. Even announce it - and watch you child's perplexed look - and step away until you are able to bring back the perspective and could care less that while you were "away" your child dumped out every toy he owns into the middle of the living room floor. You are now ready to just sit down and play having detached from mess. Good Buddha moment for sure.
Kids are always enlightening, forcing us into the present every day, so aware of there surroundings, and so open to the possibilities. Since the first day Eric open his eyes and looked at me (27 weeks)I had this profound feeling that we were about to learn a great deal from each other. Boy was I right. He has looked at me many times with that same look, as if he knows more than I do. In many ways he does. Children have so much to teach us.
Time out was his first reaction to Buddha. Day 2's reaction was "he's crying". Apparently Buddha sent out this emotion that Eric saw as tears. Again, Eric wise beyond his years didn't realize what he just said. Tears are often a release, letting emotions free. I have experienced this release. In yoga when you physically release a tight area in your body that was holding your tension, your anxiety you may find yourself blubbering freely on your mat. My pre-schooler never holds on to his tension. He lets it out regularly, sometimes in public, acting out in ways you sometimes wish were acceptable as an adult (ie throwing your toy across the room because it isn't working - hello!!! computers)
I just got some really good advice from another mom. When you feel the chaos of all the thinking and all the doing (and all the whining) give yourself a time out. Even announce it - and watch you child's perplexed look - and step away until you are able to bring back the perspective and could care less that while you were "away" your child dumped out every toy he owns into the middle of the living room floor. You are now ready to just sit down and play having detached from mess. Good Buddha moment for sure.
Monday, January 04, 2010
Holiday Fun (101 photos), by Tara DelloIacono
I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Counting days
The anticipation brought on by the advent calendar drove Eric into a frenzy until about the 15th of December when he finally realized we would not be opening more than one window each day. It took a great deal of self (and sometimes physical) restraint on his part to comply with the rules of the advent.
Each morning we would start the day with "what-iz open today?" spoken in Eric's most melodically charming and convincing tone. Even after we opened the window he would hit you with this question several more times just in case you would slip up, forget what day it was, and let him open and retrieve another chocolate from the window.
This December Eric wasn't the only one counting dates. December 10th (3 years ago) is the anniversary of Eric's homecoming from his 96 day stay in the NICU. To add to this attention to dates, Eric's original due date was December 12th (the same as my mother's with me). Aaron refers to Eric being born twice, first on his birthday and then again the day we brought him home. The emotion we experienced is still very tangible but, seems so distant when we are playing with our mild-mannered, tantrum throwing, charming three year old.
December 7th also marked the day I was 26 weeks along with this second pregnancy, quite a milestone since as you know Eric was born at 26 weeks and 2 days. It is pretty cool to be over that hump and well into the third trimester. So far Eric's money is on a baby sister. Although one day he decided maybe it was a brother. Either way he has suggested two names for "his" baby: Doggie or Baby Eric.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Each morning we would start the day with "what-iz open today?" spoken in Eric's most melodically charming and convincing tone. Even after we opened the window he would hit you with this question several more times just in case you would slip up, forget what day it was, and let him open and retrieve another chocolate from the window.
This December Eric wasn't the only one counting dates. December 10th (3 years ago) is the anniversary of Eric's homecoming from his 96 day stay in the NICU. To add to this attention to dates, Eric's original due date was December 12th (the same as my mother's with me). Aaron refers to Eric being born twice, first on his birthday and then again the day we brought him home. The emotion we experienced is still very tangible but, seems so distant when we are playing with our mild-mannered, tantrum throwing, charming three year old.
December 7th also marked the day I was 26 weeks along with this second pregnancy, quite a milestone since as you know Eric was born at 26 weeks and 2 days. It is pretty cool to be over that hump and well into the third trimester. So far Eric's money is on a baby sister. Although one day he decided maybe it was a brother. Either way he has suggested two names for "his" baby: Doggie or Baby Eric.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Thankful and then some
Thanksgiving with Oma,Opa, Cousins Sam, Maylen and Addison!
It has been a while since Momma has blogged at you and what better time to get the groove back than a holiday weekend. Happy Thanksgiving!
I am exhaustively thankful for Eric and for the new brother or sister on the way. Anyone reading this who has been pregnant while chasing their pre-schooler around knows what I mean when I say exhaustive. Everyday there is something new to adapt to for example, I can no longer pick Eric up, which means I can no longer pick Eric up and carry him to speed things a long.
Everything we do together is in pre-schooler time and pre-schooler fashion which is generally doddlingly getting to whatever we're getting to. I am grateful for our leisurely fall walks down the street through piles of leaves, picking up sticks, jumping in puddles, and investigating other peoples side walks. It forces me to clear my mind of all the responsibilities and be present right where I am at, with Eric.
Sometimes we will even just pop a seat on the sidewalk and take a break.
Then there are the times like taking a bath, brushing teeth, changing the diaper, washing hands, or going to bed where Eric takes full advantage of me not being able to pick him and plop him where he is to go. This has resulted in me, on occasion dragging him to where he needs to be. Interesting yes, always effective no.
Doing things in pre-schooler time can test my patience, BUT I must say I am grateful for this time (as exhausting as it is). Not only does it force me get more disciplined and patient, but it has also allowed for Eric and Momma moments I wouldn't trade for the world.
Out of these moments has blossomed a budding photographer. One of Eric's and my favorite games is to give Eric the camera and let him snap away and then we upload them and look at the on the computer. This keeps his attention for a while and always me to sit down and watch him take photos. I have noticed a marked improvement in his photo quality and composition since we starting playing this game in my first trimester. On Thanksgiving Day I let him go with the camera and he captured photos of the whole family.
Eric documented a wonderful holiday that we thankfully got to spend together with Oma & Opa, Uncle Mike & Aunt Susie, cousins Sam, Maylen and the newest addition - Addison (one month old). It was especially a special holdiday because it was the first celebrated together at the Montoya's new house (with a fantastic circular floor plan for running laps) and Opa was finally back in NorCal! Here are some more of Eric's photos and a few of taken by others while celebrating:
It has been a while since Momma has blogged at you and what better time to get the groove back than a holiday weekend. Happy Thanksgiving!
I am exhaustively thankful for Eric and for the new brother or sister on the way. Anyone reading this who has been pregnant while chasing their pre-schooler around knows what I mean when I say exhaustive. Everyday there is something new to adapt to for example, I can no longer pick Eric up, which means I can no longer pick Eric up and carry him to speed things a long.
Everything we do together is in pre-schooler time and pre-schooler fashion which is generally doddlingly getting to whatever we're getting to. I am grateful for our leisurely fall walks down the street through piles of leaves, picking up sticks, jumping in puddles, and investigating other peoples side walks. It forces me to clear my mind of all the responsibilities and be present right where I am at, with Eric.
Sometimes we will even just pop a seat on the sidewalk and take a break.
Then there are the times like taking a bath, brushing teeth, changing the diaper, washing hands, or going to bed where Eric takes full advantage of me not being able to pick him and plop him where he is to go. This has resulted in me, on occasion dragging him to where he needs to be. Interesting yes, always effective no.
Doing things in pre-schooler time can test my patience, BUT I must say I am grateful for this time (as exhausting as it is). Not only does it force me get more disciplined and patient, but it has also allowed for Eric and Momma moments I wouldn't trade for the world.
Out of these moments has blossomed a budding photographer. One of Eric's and my favorite games is to give Eric the camera and let him snap away and then we upload them and look at the on the computer. This keeps his attention for a while and always me to sit down and watch him take photos. I have noticed a marked improvement in his photo quality and composition since we starting playing this game in my first trimester. On Thanksgiving Day I let him go with the camera and he captured photos of the whole family.
Eric documented a wonderful holiday that we thankfully got to spend together with Oma & Opa, Uncle Mike & Aunt Susie, cousins Sam, Maylen and the newest addition - Addison (one month old). It was especially a special holdiday because it was the first celebrated together at the Montoya's new house (with a fantastic circular floor plan for running laps) and Opa was finally back in NorCal! Here are some more of Eric's photos and a few of taken by others while celebrating:
Friday, October 02, 2009
Giants Game
Last weekend I took Eric to his first Giants game. So that he was properly indoctrinated as a true Giants fan, we went to see them play the Dodgers during a pennant chase and we sat in the left field bleachers. I thought it might be overwhelming for a 3 year old but he loved it. It was kids' backpack night so he got a free Giants backpack which was wayyy to big for him. To get in the right mood, Eric first hit the Coke bottle side for about 20 trips. Loved it.
Once the game started he fit right in with our group (Keith, Joe, BJ, etc.). He chanted "Beat LA" and pumped his fist with the crowd. The most classic moment in my mind was around the 3rd inning. I had given Eric one of those milk boxes to drink and at some point he dropped it and then stepped on it. The milk shot out like a cannon. When you look down any given row in the bleachers, you will see that the ground is wet from spilled beers. In our row it was pure white with spilled milk and covered with the kettle corn that didn't make it to Eric's mouth. He seemed (I hope) not to notice all the people screaming out F-bombs at Dodger fans and at one point a fight erupted about 10 feet from us. Hey it's just part of a Giants/Dodgers game right? Fan for life.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Human Spirit
One of the most amazing things about us people is our resiliency, our ability to heal, and to come back better and stronger.
I have seen the human spirit heal itself over and over and it never ceases to amaze me what strength and courage we all have within us.
We have been gifted the ability to "bounce back" from anything if we choose to. I look to a few friends of mine who have been to the depths of the bottom and eventually return to themselves. My "step-sister" Susan honors her young husband's life, Dan Fritz, after cancer took him from her too young. She carries on each day with courage, grace, and beauty and is an inspiration.
My friend Bobby whose wife was struck with a sudden and life threatening condition that kept him by her bedside day and night until she had a miraculous recovery that brought her home. They moved on from that trauma to have a beautiful baby girl leaving those terrifying moments far behind them.
I watched a co-worker of mine struggle through the loss of his young brother to a major car accident. He too inspired me with his ability to come back from such a loss and go on living his life. He is quoted as saying, "Now I too have a story."
I guess my point is everyone has a story and many more than one. We can not anticipate the joys or struggles life will throw our way but we are inner-wired to handle things as the come. This is where we can find the comfort to live our lives to the fullest each day.
Of course, my story is Eric. My recovery from total take-down and weakness took only time and now I am strong enough to enjoy the brilliant opportunity to bring more life into this world with a sibling for Eric who will grace us with their presence in March. If not, well, we can handle it.
Ok! Everyone with me now! One cheer for FULL TERM!
We are thrilled to be pregnant and are enjoying the experience to the fullest
I have seen the human spirit heal itself over and over and it never ceases to amaze me what strength and courage we all have within us.
We have been gifted the ability to "bounce back" from anything if we choose to. I look to a few friends of mine who have been to the depths of the bottom and eventually return to themselves. My "step-sister" Susan honors her young husband's life, Dan Fritz, after cancer took him from her too young. She carries on each day with courage, grace, and beauty and is an inspiration.
My friend Bobby whose wife was struck with a sudden and life threatening condition that kept him by her bedside day and night until she had a miraculous recovery that brought her home. They moved on from that trauma to have a beautiful baby girl leaving those terrifying moments far behind them.
I watched a co-worker of mine struggle through the loss of his young brother to a major car accident. He too inspired me with his ability to come back from such a loss and go on living his life. He is quoted as saying, "Now I too have a story."
I guess my point is everyone has a story and many more than one. We can not anticipate the joys or struggles life will throw our way but we are inner-wired to handle things as the come. This is where we can find the comfort to live our lives to the fullest each day.
Of course, my story is Eric. My recovery from total take-down and weakness took only time and now I am strong enough to enjoy the brilliant opportunity to bring more life into this world with a sibling for Eric who will grace us with their presence in March. If not, well, we can handle it.
Ok! Everyone with me now! One cheer for FULL TERM!
We are thrilled to be pregnant and are enjoying the experience to the fullest
Monday, September 07, 2009
Happy 3rd Birthday Eric
Eric had a great third birthday! He was so overwhelmed with the response to his birthday he had a very difficult time settling down, for the next two days in fact.
Eric has also graduated with flying colors from the NICU follow-up clinic as they see no need to continue following him because he as doing everything every boy his age is doing (which includes power struggles and tantrums which we happily accept as TOTALLY normal!)
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Three years ago today
Three years ago today I went into labor on Labor Day, September 5,2006; at twenty six weeks pregnant with Eric. I had never been so scared and so needy as I was in those moments. Once we figured out what was going on we headed to the emergency room a mile up the street and our journey began.
Aaron found a place to park and says to me, "well this is a good fire drill for the real thing." Me all the while thinking this is more than a fire drill. We arrive in the emergency room. We were greeted with a kind urgency. The nurse confirms my fears. I am having pre term labor contractions. Dr. Lau does an exam, takes a step back and a deep breath before telling us that from this moment forward your pregnancy is going to be different than we may have imagined. I remember his compassionate yet serious delivery of this information. I was centimeter dilated and contractions coming on strong. They admitted me to the hospital and brought in a roll-away bed for Aaron. They immediately shot me with tributalene which made me even more jittery on top of my nerves. Then the hooked me up to an IV drip of magnesium all to try and stop the contractions. It was late now, around 10pm. Aaron asked if he should stay and I told him I had never needed him more than now. They hooked me and Eric up to a heart rate monitor so they could monitor our status. They also tracked my contractions and asked me to hit a button I held in my hand every time I had one. They gave me steroids to increase the development of Eric's lungs and told me to "stay pregnant" for 48 hours at least so the drugs had time to work.
My numbness began here. I was numb with shock, numb with drugs, and with numb with fear. Neither of us had ever been in a place of so much unknown. I couldn't sleep and neither could Aaron. We didn't talk. We laid there in the dark listening to the comforting sounds of Eric's strong and healthy heart beat and the disturbing beep every time I hit the button marking another contraction that was always accompanied by a tear.
Morning came. The contractions slowed over night but did not stop completely. My nurse calmed me by telling me that the contractions were not strong enough to dilate me at this point and I would be fine. Aaron went home to get a few things and the rotating visits from specialists began. I had an ultrasound that determined Eric was head down and weighed 860 grams (1 pound 10 oz). I tried to imagine how the 1lb bag of apples I purchased a few days earlier weighed. They showed me the picture of him. I could see him sitting at what looked to me like the threshold of the birth canal. While the perinatologist said he wasn't impressed because we couldn't see the end of the cervix and it could be quite far, I knew; knew he was on the edge and ready to see this world as much as I wanted him to stay right where he was so I could continue to do my work for him until he was big and strong. He was going to come. I could see it and I could feel it and I was scared. In came the neonatoligist who told us all we could expect should he be born before 28 weeks, 30 weeks, and 32 weeks. Her confidence in the NICU was comforting. They were skillful, compassionate, and could handle whatever surprises Eric was going to throw our way.
My only option was hope. Nothing else but hope. All I could do was breathe and cry. Whenever anyone walked in the door of our hospital room my eyes filled with tears. I could control nothing now but my breath and that was all I intended to focus on.
We stayed pregnant for 48 hours and had a mini celebration with a smile and photo at 10:30pm, that we had given Eric time for the steroids to advance his lung development. Next goal, 28 weeks. The following morning the nurse wrote my goal on the white board in front of my bed and I focused on it and continued to breath. As much as I was willing to convince myself that we would make it to 28 weeks it sure didn't feel like it. Contractions never stopped. Finally Dr. Callan, my ob, said as much as she didn't want to go in there and "muck" things up she needed to do and exam to see where things were at. She did her exam and with an urgency in her voice she said "we have 8 cm and a bulging bag. This baby is coming now." My teeth have never chattered ever in my life and they were chattering so much I could not stop them. I was shaking all over. They moved me back to the delivery bed they head switched me over from (the nurse certain I wouldn't need the delivery bed for a while). Dr. Callan told me she would wait to break my water until my husband got there. I called Aaron and with a shaky voice said, "come back the baby is coming." He had gone home to take care of a few things. When he walked into the room he was white faced. I have never seen a person that color. He was scared.
It took Eric fours to travel through the birth canal. He had a relaxing journey and was never in distress. If I couldn't continue to do the work for him at least I could give him that. They asked if I wanted the epidural and I said why? does it get worse than this? and he is only a little less than 2 lbs. I denied the epidural and later said I needed it but it was only three more pushes before he showed us is tiny face.
Eric was crying and I felt a strange sense of calm and relief. I believe I was merely stunned. Aaron had mind enough to snap pictures like crazy when I wasn't squeezing the blood out of his hand. A team of nurses swarmed Eric and got him ready to move to the Newborn Intensive Care Unit where he would spend the next 96 days. They showed me the swaddled bundle that came from me and rolled him out in and isolet. I still can not call it an incubator to this day because it sounds so sickly to me.
Most women say they experience delivery amnesia. I didn't. I remember every detail. I remember my Dad calling me during labor and the nurse taking my teddy bear out from under my head and saying it is time for business. Most of all I remember thinking quietly to myself as the team of nurses swept Eric away to the NICU that next time I will go full term. I get another chance at this.
It has taken me three years to be able to write this, and in that three years Eric has grown to be a wonderfully perfect three year old boy; and Aaron and I have fully recovered from the trauma of this story.
Aaron found a place to park and says to me, "well this is a good fire drill for the real thing." Me all the while thinking this is more than a fire drill. We arrive in the emergency room. We were greeted with a kind urgency. The nurse confirms my fears. I am having pre term labor contractions. Dr. Lau does an exam, takes a step back and a deep breath before telling us that from this moment forward your pregnancy is going to be different than we may have imagined. I remember his compassionate yet serious delivery of this information. I was centimeter dilated and contractions coming on strong. They admitted me to the hospital and brought in a roll-away bed for Aaron. They immediately shot me with tributalene which made me even more jittery on top of my nerves. Then the hooked me up to an IV drip of magnesium all to try and stop the contractions. It was late now, around 10pm. Aaron asked if he should stay and I told him I had never needed him more than now. They hooked me and Eric up to a heart rate monitor so they could monitor our status. They also tracked my contractions and asked me to hit a button I held in my hand every time I had one. They gave me steroids to increase the development of Eric's lungs and told me to "stay pregnant" for 48 hours at least so the drugs had time to work.
My numbness began here. I was numb with shock, numb with drugs, and with numb with fear. Neither of us had ever been in a place of so much unknown. I couldn't sleep and neither could Aaron. We didn't talk. We laid there in the dark listening to the comforting sounds of Eric's strong and healthy heart beat and the disturbing beep every time I hit the button marking another contraction that was always accompanied by a tear.
Morning came. The contractions slowed over night but did not stop completely. My nurse calmed me by telling me that the contractions were not strong enough to dilate me at this point and I would be fine. Aaron went home to get a few things and the rotating visits from specialists began. I had an ultrasound that determined Eric was head down and weighed 860 grams (1 pound 10 oz). I tried to imagine how the 1lb bag of apples I purchased a few days earlier weighed. They showed me the picture of him. I could see him sitting at what looked to me like the threshold of the birth canal. While the perinatologist said he wasn't impressed because we couldn't see the end of the cervix and it could be quite far, I knew; knew he was on the edge and ready to see this world as much as I wanted him to stay right where he was so I could continue to do my work for him until he was big and strong. He was going to come. I could see it and I could feel it and I was scared. In came the neonatoligist who told us all we could expect should he be born before 28 weeks, 30 weeks, and 32 weeks. Her confidence in the NICU was comforting. They were skillful, compassionate, and could handle whatever surprises Eric was going to throw our way.
My only option was hope. Nothing else but hope. All I could do was breathe and cry. Whenever anyone walked in the door of our hospital room my eyes filled with tears. I could control nothing now but my breath and that was all I intended to focus on.
We stayed pregnant for 48 hours and had a mini celebration with a smile and photo at 10:30pm, that we had given Eric time for the steroids to advance his lung development. Next goal, 28 weeks. The following morning the nurse wrote my goal on the white board in front of my bed and I focused on it and continued to breath. As much as I was willing to convince myself that we would make it to 28 weeks it sure didn't feel like it. Contractions never stopped. Finally Dr. Callan, my ob, said as much as she didn't want to go in there and "muck" things up she needed to do and exam to see where things were at. She did her exam and with an urgency in her voice she said "we have 8 cm and a bulging bag. This baby is coming now." My teeth have never chattered ever in my life and they were chattering so much I could not stop them. I was shaking all over. They moved me back to the delivery bed they head switched me over from (the nurse certain I wouldn't need the delivery bed for a while). Dr. Callan told me she would wait to break my water until my husband got there. I called Aaron and with a shaky voice said, "come back the baby is coming." He had gone home to take care of a few things. When he walked into the room he was white faced. I have never seen a person that color. He was scared.
It took Eric fours to travel through the birth canal. He had a relaxing journey and was never in distress. If I couldn't continue to do the work for him at least I could give him that. They asked if I wanted the epidural and I said why? does it get worse than this? and he is only a little less than 2 lbs. I denied the epidural and later said I needed it but it was only three more pushes before he showed us is tiny face.
Eric was crying and I felt a strange sense of calm and relief. I believe I was merely stunned. Aaron had mind enough to snap pictures like crazy when I wasn't squeezing the blood out of his hand. A team of nurses swarmed Eric and got him ready to move to the Newborn Intensive Care Unit where he would spend the next 96 days. They showed me the swaddled bundle that came from me and rolled him out in and isolet. I still can not call it an incubator to this day because it sounds so sickly to me.
Most women say they experience delivery amnesia. I didn't. I remember every detail. I remember my Dad calling me during labor and the nurse taking my teddy bear out from under my head and saying it is time for business. Most of all I remember thinking quietly to myself as the team of nurses swept Eric away to the NICU that next time I will go full term. I get another chance at this.
It has taken me three years to be able to write this, and in that three years Eric has grown to be a wonderfully perfect three year old boy; and Aaron and I have fully recovered from the trauma of this story.
Monday, August 31, 2009
article in the New York Times
For Parents on NICU, Trauma May Last - NYTimes.com
No kidding!
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/25/health/25trau.html
No kidding!
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/25/health/25trau.html
Monday, August 17, 2009
Running & train tracks
Momma and running have a long-standing relationship. Running is something that I have always prefered to do alone, no music, no gadgets, and especially no gear. The beauty of running is that you can just go and go with nothing but your shoes and your will. When I was pregnant with Eric I stopped running and wasn't able to bring myself to pick it up again until we "re-calibrated" time and energy. I had worried that I could never "get it back" and be as fit as I was prior but I soon found that because of Eric I was a better runner and had a greater appreciation for its simplicity. The break was good for me. I started with a clean slate and had an entirley new appreciation for pounding feet on trails and pavement. It was pure indulgence to escape from the house long enough to run up the hill into the Presidio and look on the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. Time kept me from running too much or too far (something I always tended towards). I would run home feeling satisfied and refreshed and still have the energy to play and take care of Eric because I didn't overdue it.
Now Eric is older and I am in the best running shape I have ever been in, which means I can run farther in less time, but Eric still keeps me in check. On the days his 25 pound body leads in the jogging stroller he will shout, "run Momma run, faster Momma faster" all the while knowing we are running to the beach where we will make train tracks in the sand and play like little engines. Running is so much more fun thanks to Eric.
Eric & Momma at the beach
A view of the Palace of Fine arts. One of the many postcard perfect views I am lucky enough to have on one of my favorite solo routes.
Now Eric is older and I am in the best running shape I have ever been in, which means I can run farther in less time, but Eric still keeps me in check. On the days his 25 pound body leads in the jogging stroller he will shout, "run Momma run, faster Momma faster" all the while knowing we are running to the beach where we will make train tracks in the sand and play like little engines. Running is so much more fun thanks to Eric.
Eric & Momma at the beach
A view of the Palace of Fine arts. One of the many postcard perfect views I am lucky enough to have on one of my favorite solo routes.
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