This has been making me crazy

I will be posting about our fantastic Memorial weekend, but this going to be a post of a different nature.  As silly as it might sound I belong to a group on facebook just for wives of Marine recruiters.  It has been a nice support group because only another recruiter wife has any idea of how horrible recruiting duty can be.  It has been great because the group is spread out across the country, and it really helps to see different view points, or how things are done differently in another area.  Sometimes though as it tends to be when you get a group of women together there is drama.

A member posted that they are thinking about moving home with their kids getting an apartment and a job while her husband is on RD (recruiting duty). She wanted to know if anyone had actually done this, and what people thought.  She also said that they weren't talking about a divorce.  Recruiting duty is a three year duty.  A few posted that it wasn't like we saw our husbands much anyway.  This is what I said: 

I have to agree with ------- and-------. I just can't imagine that being apart would be something that would benefit both of you. I know for myself when I would go home it was helpful to me because I had my family etc, but it was very hard on my husband. He would call me asking when I was going to be home because he needed me. Even though we barely see each other my being here to support him is very important to him. I think he'd be a mess if he was having to go through this alone. I know for us it would just add more stress of him missing me and the kids. I also agree with the sex and cheating thing. I have complete trust in my husband, but I also think why put that temptation out there. Maybe you could just go home for some longish visits? See what is like, give yourself a bit of a break. Of course only the two of you know what is the best for your marriage and sanity through this RD process. Hope you can work it out! :)

Sunday at 2:42pm · 

I was agreeing with two women, but I removed their names.  One of them flat our said that men need sex (women for that matter too) and you are going to be separated for 3 years.  This post really riled some people up people started saying that this isn't the 1950's, and why do women have to put things on hold, or why do they have to follow their man around? Um, maybe because you married a Marine? Maybe, because you are in the lifestyle of the military? This just really shocks me.  I just don't understand someone choosing to leave their husband alone just so they can move home to their parents so things will be easier on them.  The girl flat out said it is because she wants to work.  If it is some type of circumstances where financially this is what is going to be best for your family then yes, sacrifices have to be made.  If you want to work then work what is stopping you?  Yes, you might not be near family, but there are single moms out there that go to work everyday.  Everyday, they take their kids to daycare, and everyday they make it work.  

She also stated that she wanted to move home because she was tired of hearing her husband complain, and was tired of having to deal with it.  How someone could just leave their spouse at a time in his life when he's going through one of the most stressful times in his career I just don't get it.  On the flip side several said that they agreed that if the wife had a career then she shouldn't be expected to just pack up and move.  I'm sorry I just don't get it, and maybe because I have never been in this type of situation, but you married a Marine, or you were married and then your husband chose to become a Marine.  Seriously, what do they think being part of the military is about? You move and sometimes every three  years.  Someone else mentioned not living with her husband because she was close to home, and she had friends and a life established where she was.  By this point I was sitting screaming at my computer. You aren't moving because you have friends? FRIENDS?! Are you kidding me?! I just DO NOT get it, and maybe I sound judgmental because to each their own, and different strokes and all that.  

I talked about it with Zach and he was just as flabbergasted as I was.  I guess I just don't understand why you would get married, and then have children for that matter if you aren't going to live with your spouse.  Isn't that what marriage is supposed to be about? For better or for worse? I completely understand going home for a long visit or taking a break for a bit because this duty is so isolating, and it would be nice to have some family to support you.  Someone said that they did do something like this where they didn't live with their husband, but when they did see each other that it was awesome.  Well, yeah it is going to be awesome.  It is called the honeymoon phase, and military families get to experience it throughout our marriages.  Every time our spouses comeback from a deployment, time in the field, or anything else that might separate us.  Yes, it is wonderful but it also isn't real.  You can't base your marriage on those feelings of euphoria of seeing each other after a long separation.  

Another wife said that she is dealing with a similar issue of her husband wanting her and their child to move home after recruiting duty because their child will be of school age, and he doesn't want his child to be moved around school to school.  Again. What?! I just don't get it.  Isn't having a father figure more important than what moving around might do to a kid? Zach said it sounds like these are just couples that are too afraid for whatever reason to admit that they want a divorce.  

I have never been in a situation like this, but if I was I would be doing whatever I had to to keep our family together.  I especially, wouldn't be abandoning my husband when he's under the most stress he has ever been under.  

Great Products For New Parents

New Baby Essentials 

I thought I would share with you some of the baby items I found most helpful and useful with our little ones.  


These products are obviously all products that we have found useful, and that we love.  It is just our opinion.  Feel free to leave a comment about any baby items that you think rock!

1. Aiden and Anais Swaddle Blankets- Is it crazy that part of me was excited about having another baby because it meant I got to buy these blankets?!  I couldn't wait to use these.  They are made of a light weight muslin that gets softer and softer as you wash them.  They are square measuring 47"x47" so they are extra big and awesome for swaddling.  If you have ever tried to swaddle a baby you know it is important to have a big square blanket, and all of those receiving blankets that you get are tiny rectangles.  We use them for more than just swaddling.  They make a handy burp cloth if you need one, great for tummy time, and they are a nice light weight blanket since the weather is getting hotter.  

2. Fisher-Price My Little Snugabunny Newborn Rock N' Play Sleeper- Big name, GREAT product.  It isn't just for newborns it has a weight limit of up to 25lbs.  This thing is great it is so soft and plush.  When Grayson was a newborn all he wanted to be on was something soft.  Baby sleeps in it at an incline, and this is awesome if your little one suffers from reflux.  Also, it seems like most little ones don't want to be flat on their backs.  It folds up practically flat.  It would be very easy to store or to use for travel.  We have already thrown ours in the car and taken it camping.  If you are looking for a space saving solution you could use this instead of a bassinet or pack n' play.  I loved it because when Grayson was a newborn I could have this in the living room with me, and he could sleep near me.  I wish they had this when Jack was little.

3. The Happiest Baby On The Block by Harvey Karp, M.D.- I know they have a book and a dvd.  I read the book when Jackson was a baby.  This book and Dr. Karps's advice is awesome! He teaches you the 5 S's Swaddling, Side/Stomach Position, Shushing Sounds, Swinging, Sucking. They worked great for Jack, and they have worked again for Grayson.  Great tips to help you soothe and calm your baby.  Grayson love to be swaddled, and the shushing works instantly for him.  Get this book!

4. Safety- 1st Space Saver Fold-Up Infant Tub- I love this baby tub.  I love that it can fold up, and easily be put away.  When folded it takes up very little room. It fits easily into the sink, or you could use it in your big bathtub.  I had a bigger fancier tub for Jack when he was little, and I hated how big it was and how much room it took up.  His Grandpa gave us this, and I never looked back.  Like I said I love that I can use it in the kitchen sink.  It saves my aching back from having to bend over.  It can be harder to find so you might do an internet search for it.  I know it can usually be found at walmart.  I do reccomend if you use this tub then get some type of Comfy Bath Sponge place that in the fold-up tub it makes it cushier for a newborn, and less slippery.  Bonus this tub is very inexpensive.

5. The Moby Wrap- We bought our Moby at a home show when Jack was 6 months old.  Zach and I both love it, and we both wear it.  We used it all the time with Jack.  Both of us couldn't wait for Grayson to be born so we could put him in the Moby.  It is great to be hands free sometimes, and the Moby is very comfortable.  There are also so many positive things that go along with baby wearing.  Babies almost always fall asleep in it so it is great if you have a fussy little one.  I do find that people either love their Moby, or they hate it.  If you get one just practice, and practice some more.  If anyone has any questions about using their Moby or would like some tips please e-mail me.  

6. A White Noise Machine- I highly recommend some type of white noise machine.  The one I have pictured is the Graco Sweet Slumber Sound Machine, but I don't have any experience with this one.  We just had a generic sound machine for Jack that he used, and he preferred the ocean waves sounds.  Grayson likes the actual white noise sound, and he prefers an app I have on my phone.  Yes, my tiny baby uses my iphone.  Babies do great with white noise for many reasons especially, the white noise shushing sound because it sounds like in the womb.  I turn on the white noise and Grayson is out like a light.  We have also used it to help calm him when he's screaming in the backseat of the car, and we can't get to him to shush in his ear.  (Seriously, read The Happiest Baby on The Block)

7. Lansinoh Breast Milk Storage Bags- If you are going to be doing any milk storing then I really recommend these storage bags.  I used them with both Jack and Grayson.  I never have had any trouble with them leaking or anything.  They are nice because you can lay them down in your freezer, and the bag goes flat.  Making it much easier to store the flat frozen bags of breast milk.  I have used a few other kinds, and they don't freeze completely flat.  

8. Johnson's Nursing Pads- Even if you don't end up breastfeeding you should pick up some of these nursing pads for when your milk comes in.  I have used these pads with both boys, and they are fantastic.  They are soft and very absorbent.  They are contoured, and nearly undetectable under clothes.  I like them because they have a bit of a shape to them, and that is nice to wear in my nursing tank tops.  I believe they have redone the

 packaging, and the box is now pink.  So look for them in this blue box, or the newly designed pink one.  

Stuffed Peppers on My Day Off

Yesterday, was my day off.  I have deemed Mondays as my official day off.  I'm not sure when it started, but I have been doing it for a while.  Something about being so tired from the weekend, plus it is Monday and what better day to take off than a Monday.  What do I do on my day off? Well, I try to do a whole lot of nothing.  I'm usually in my pjs all day or at least for most of it.  Jack is in his pjs for most of the day too.  Declaring Monday my day off pretty much just tells Zach that he's going to come home to a house that looks like a tornado hit it.  He has been completely okay with it, and that is awesome.  Last night he came home looking for a pair of shorts in the laundry, and he said, "Oh, yeah it was your day off." I love that he's willing to acknowledge that I need some time.  So basically, I don't do laundry, dishes, any type of cleaning.  Yesterday, I did a bit of reading on my downtime when Grayson was napping.  Otherwise,  I usually watch movies with Jackson, or we all take a big nap.  It is great, but I'm not sure how helpful it is to me in the long run.  While it is nice to take the day to do nothing it isn't like a maid is showing up every Monday.  I end up having to take care of everything anyway on Tuesday, but I guess I like the idea of lowered expectations on Monday.  

We love to eat peppers around here, and luckily they were on sale because these babies can get expensive so I stocked up.

I made stuffed peppers for dinner last night, all with Grayson strapped to my chest in the Moby.  Let me tell you I found it difficult to dice onions with him attached to me.  I was a bit worried that the smell would bother his eyes, but he seemed perfectly fine.  He just fell asleep.  Here is the recipe for how I made them last night. They are little different then how I usually do it because I was using what I had on hand.  It won't be exact because I don't usually measure when I cook.  

5 Bell Peppers (I had just enough filling so you might use 4)

1lb Ground Beef (I had a little over a pound)

2 cans Tomato Soup ( You can use tomato sauce this is just what I had)

1 small onion chopped

1 clove of garlic minced

1 cup uncooked rice (I used brown rice, and the 1 cup made more than I would usually put in, but it made the filling go farther)

Shredded Cheese, any kind.  (I usually use mozzarella, but I had shredded cheddar and mexican cheese    on hand)

2Tbs Butter

Worcestershire Sauce

Salt

Pepper

Preheat oven to 350

Bring a large pot of water to boil.  While you are waiting on the water cut the stems off of your peppers and take the seeds out.  Place the peppers in the boiling water for 5 minutes.  Remove them and set them aside in a baking dish.  

Dice one small onion and mince one clove of garlic and set aside.

I cook my rice separately because it just never seems to cook right when I try to cook it with the peppers.  Cooked my rice according to the package directions.  I cooked 2 servings using 1 cup uncooked rice.   

While rice is cooking melt butter in a skillet, and sauté onions and garlic until they are soft.  Add in burger, and cook thoroughly. Drain burger, and put it back into the pan.  Add seasonings to taste.  Salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.  (You can add whatever seasonings you would like.  Personally, I would have added some dried parsley, but we are out.) Stir in the cooked rice. I added in some tomato soup and a bit of water to bring it all together, and make it moist.  (You can use tomato sauce instead) Sprinkle in about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.  Stir until cheese is melted and everything is hot.  

Your peppers should be in a baking dish.

Stuff your peppers with the meat mixture.  

I added water to the rest of my tomato soup to make sort of a gravy/sauce like consistency, and ladled it over the peppers letting some pool in the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers. Top with shredded cheese.

Bake peppers for 20-35 minutes depending on what texture you like your peppers to be.  We like them a little mushy.  Let cool, and enjoy.  

 If you see an ingredient that you don't like then you shouldn't let that stop you, or if you don't have it try to improvise and use what you have on hand.  If you don't like real onion, use powdered or dried onions, and the same for fresh garlic. Taste as you go and get creative! 

Pie, A Garden, and a Smile

We had a pretty ordinary weekend.  I wish weekends were three days instead of just two, but then I would probably just wish they were four days long.  It is hard for us to cram all the things we want to do into just two days.  When I think about the weekend I think about it being time that I will actually get to spend time with Zach, and the kids will get to see their Dad.  I think about how all I want it a bit of a break, but I know he wants a break too.  We both dream of sleep and relaxation.  Plus I want to go to church, I want to run errands, do things around the house that I need Zach for, and I want to fit some type of fun activity in to, and there just aren't enough hours in the day for all of that.  It can be exhausting, and they I feel like I must being doing it wrong because weekends are supposed to be about relaxing and recharging.  If only. 

Zach worked as usual on Saturday. The boys and I didn't do much.  I cleaned the house hoping it would stay clean for a bit so we wouldn't have to worry about that for a while.  I'm honesty drawing a blank about what we did for the rest of the day so that is how exciting it was.  Now, I remember Zach and I took turns each taking about a thirty minute nap each.  Then I cooked dinner pasta and white sauce (alfredo) Jackson's favorite.  It tasted good because we hadn't had it in a while.  I think I got burnt out on it.  After dinner Zach took Jackson to the park because the two of them were in desperate need of some time together.  Earlier in the week I had been putting Jackson to sleep and he asked, "Why doesn't Daddy want to stay with us?" All last week Zach was gone before Jack got up, and he was home from work long after Jack was asleep.  Jackson, literally thought that Zach wasn't living at our house.  Talk about heart breaking. Grayson stayed home from the father son bonding because it was nearly 7:00, and by 7:00 he wants to have his bath and be in bed. No questions asked.   After both boys were in bed Zach and I started watching the latest of The Deadliest catch for the second or third time.  We kept having to stop the show due to Zach falling asleep.  

I forgot until I saw the picture that I did whip together a coconut cream pie at 9:30 at night because I was craving some pie.  Homemade crust and whipped cream too.  I'm a rock star I tell ya.

No, church for us on Sunday because Zach had to work.  The boys and I didn't do much, but get ready for when Zach got home so we could run errands.  After he got home we went and got everything we needed for our garden.  We scaled down a bit this time.  Zach ended up cooking dinner and watching Grayson while Jackson and I planted the garden.  We planted two kinds of tomatoe plants, and a yellow pepper plant.  I'm hoping the pepper plant works because it didn't grow at all last year.  We also planted corn from seeds.  That is a big gamble, but Jack was very excited about it.  We will see if it grows.  We planted a patio tomato plant, and a jalapeno plant that we are going to keep on the deck.  We enjoyed a yummy dinner of steak and potato.  Jackson, Zach, and I actually ended up cuddling on the living room floor watching How It's Made while Grayson slept in his swing.   

Tomato and Jalapeno

The weekends just aren't long enough, but this was a pretty good one.   I have a few goals for this week.  1. Drink 2 liters of water everyday.  I need to start hydrating more I think it would help me to feel so much better.  2. Make my bed every morning.  A habit I would love to make just a natural part of my day.  For some reason things just go better when I make my bed. ( I did make it this morning, and had to remake it after Jack decided to snuggle in it and watch tv) 3. Take a walk or run at least three times this week.  We will see how I do. 

A picture of my monkey at 6:30 this morning.  He tends to give out all of his smiles in the morning. 

If you made it to the end of the most boring post on the earth then you deserved a medal!

Back Again

Zach has been begging me to get back to blogging, and honestly my heart just hasn't been in it.  So many things going on and so many life changes.  I'm willing to give it a try, and maybe there is one of you left our there that reads this thing.  Feel free to say "Hi" if you do it might motivate me more.  So, basically I have 40 bazillion things I need to blog about, and who knows if I will ever get to them.  I'm going to start off nice and easy with a Friday Phone Dump and some easy bullet points. Gotta ease my way back into this.  

Some stuff that is going on around here. 

• Grayson is my love bug and I give him a million kisses a day
•  I'm thinking about summer, and all that I want to do
• I'm in a panic that these are my last days with Jackson all day before he starts kindergarten
• Zach is working as long and hard as ever (That's what she said)
• I've obviously been watching too much of The Office on Netflix
• I'm trying to figure out where I want this blog to go and what I really want to talk about

 We have had some really nice weather around here.  Loving the blue sky and puffy clouds.

 Here is Grayson.  See why he gets a million kisses? Check out those chunky cheekers.  I look down at him and I think about how truly blessed I am to have him with us.

 These are our collection of pacifiers that we bought hoping Grayson would take one. I don't even think this is all of them.  The kid flat out refuses.  He will literally gag if you put one of these in his mouth.  At most he will just chew on it, but he usually just gags and sometimes even throws up.  I've pretty much given up trying, and now I just hope he doesn't become a thumb/finger sucker. Yes, I am that strange mom that WANTS her baby to use a pacifier.

 Enter the reason I wish he'd use a pacifier.  He's going through this really strange phase right now.  He roots around all day, and it looks like he's hungry and wants to eat, but he's not.  He just wants something in his mouth, and little man isn't coordinated enough to put his hands in his mouth, and keep them there.  When he did get his fist for a bit the other day he put a giant hickey on it he was sucking so hard. 

 Awwww, brother bath.   Jackson couldn't wait for the day that his little brother would be able to take a bath with him.  So we gave it a try, and Grayson loves it.  

 Here is Sonny my Mom's cat.  I'm not sure it will ever really feel like he's my cat.  He's an awesome cat let me tell you.  This was how I found him the other day.  He cracks us up the positions he gets himself into.  

 I made pulled pork in the crockpot.  I'm pretty sure I am addicted to BBQ pulled pork.  It is so easy in the crockpot, and it makes a ton.  I love it!

I pulled the jumperoo out of the basement for Grayson.  He's kinda small for it, but I thought he might enjoy it a bit.  I stuff him in there and he sits for a bit.  It gives me a chance to do those pesky things like try to cook dinner, and change over the laundry.  

I'm really enjoying using cloth diapers.  So much more than I thought  I would.  I'll have to do a post on it.  

Hopefully, some of you are still with me out there.  You can find me on instagram @amyw319

19 weeks 5 days

How Far Along: 19 weeks 5 days

Size of Baby: A large heirloom tomato.  6 inches from crown to rump 8 1/2 oz

Total Weight Gain:  still no weight gain

Maternity Clothes: Yep, just so much more comfy.  Time for bra shopping.  I have been making the ones I have stretch for far too long.  I can't even imagine how big the girls are going to be once my milk comes in.  Yikes!

Gender: ? We find out Nov. 8th.  We had to postpone the ultrasound for a week.  I'm still trying to decide if I want to do anything special to find out.  Right now, I am just thinking I might have the US lady whisper it to Jack, and then have him tell us.  I have had several people tell me it looks like I'm having a girl.  We shall see!

Name: ? We aren't even discussing names

Movement: Getting stronger all the time.  Still mostly when I am sitting or in bed going to sleep.  Kicks have been way down low like they were almost my entire pregnancy with Jack.  For the first time tonight I felt some movement up around my belly button.  I've felt a few kicks/rolls from the outside.  

Sleep:  I'm getting more and more into my late night insomnia patterns, but I think that is more me than the pregnancy.  I do sleep pretty well usually waking for some reason at 4 or 5 in the morning.  Must be practicing!   

Food cravings: Still nothing really.  I still want something for a few days and then I'm over it.  For a few weeks I have been really wanting a fruit roll up.  Something I haven't had in years and don't buy for  Jack since they are loaded with red dye and additives.  I finally caved bought a box, ate one and now I'm fine.  

Aversions: I'm not that into eating meat.  I can eat it, but I'd rather not.  

Symptoms: Indigestion, occasional nausea gagging,  round ligament pain, lower back pain, and shortness of breath.

What I'm looking forward to: Finding out boy or girl.  Seeing our new little one dance around on the ultrasound.  Getting the nursery started.  Starting a baby blanket.  

What I miss: Nothing

Next Appointment: Nov. 8th

Baby #2

I am going to try to be back to blogging, and what better way to start it off than to announce that baby number 2 will be coming into our lives March 2012.  I thought I would fill out this little pregnancy survey, and I will try to keep up with it.

How Far Along: 17 weeks 1 day

Size of Baby: An onion 5 inches from crown to rump and 5.9oz

Total Weight Gain:  -10 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Yep, just so much more comfy

Gender: ? We find out in 17 days (Jack still insists it is a sister)

Name: ? We aren't even discussing names

Movement: Yep, I have felt movement since about 12 weeks.  Now, it is just more consistent little taps, kicks, and squirms here and there.  Mostly, when I am sitting on the couch with my feet tucked up.  

Sleep:  Sleeping well these days.  I'm able to sleep w/o taking a sleeping pill.  Not going to bed too late, and sleeping all night.  

Food cravings: Nothing really.  When I want something I want it for a few days then I'm over it.  It was hummus.  Then it was fruity candy like starburst. 

Aversions: I'm not that into eating meat.  I can eat it, but I'd rather not.  

Symptoms: Indigestion, occasional nausea gagging,  round ligament pain, lower back pain, and shortness of breath.

What I'm looking forward to: Stronger kicks, and summersaults.  Finding out the gender just so I can start buying him/her things.  Also, so we can start planning getting the nursery ready.  

What I miss: Nothing

Next Appointment: Nov. 1st. 

At my last doctor appointment we got to hear the heartbeat.  It was in the 140's.  Doctor discussed upping my blood pressure medicine.  Blood pressure is good, but could be even better.  He said  I am fine to travel between here and Missouri as long as I'm taking care of myself.