Category: pregnancy

Pin Theft

As many women using the world wide web, I likes me some Pinterest. (Sorry, guys – I have yet to see a single non-chick using it. Feel free to Friend me if you’re a fan of it, too!) I’m not addicted to it, but I can see how a person could easily jump into that territory. There’s just so much inspirational material out there on the web; how could we NOT love a tool that helps us “save” ideas for later and share with friends?!

The funny thing is that part of my job is learning and educating about the responsible use of information – ie plagiarism, intellectual property, etc. Every time I pin something, I think about where it’s coming from, if the individual who originally posted it to the internet CARES that it may get pinned (and the original source in the process) dozens of times, and whether it’s legal. But, I do it, anyway.

I know that a lot of the stuff on Pinterest is actually originally shared by bloggers, who love knowing that people may try their idea (a craft, recipe, DIY project, etc) or find inspiration to do their own thing. Heck, lots of blogs ENCOURAGE us to pin their ideas. So, that’s what I’m telling myself every time I decide to repin for my own purposes. However, the items that I’m sharing here today are from the original sites (not the reproductions that I’ve been inspired to create)…just to be clear. Now, for the fun, hee hee.

For me, Pinterest has been valuable for planning my nursery. Talk about inspiration! Beyond the fact that I have actual proof that a nursery can be blue and NOT shout “It’s a Boy!” loudly (remember, we’re not finding out the sex…and we’re stickin’ to it ;-)), there are a kazillion ideas for nursery art. It’s to the point where Dave jokingly says that we’ll run out of room…and it just occurred to me that I should just keep pinning since, one day, we might just have a playroom (in a different house). 😉 Mwahahaha, he’s not safe!

So, here are some of my favorite nursery pins (the images are linked to their original sources)…

Pin Theft - image 30f78-nursery on https://megactsout.com
While there’s a tad more green to the wall color, this gave me some great inspiration for our room. Sure, there’s lots about it that we won’t be doing; we’ve got a dark wood antique rocker to use, our floors ain’t that purdy (we’ve got a large neutral rug that I’d like to layer a couple of throw rugs with), and we’ll have a lot more color. But, I LOVE the combination of blue and yellow, plus the embroidery hoop-with-patterned-fabric wall art.

Pin Theft - image 7fb00-nursery2 on https://megactsout.com

While the orange isn’t a definite, the brightness and combination of fun color are definitely an inspiration for our space. I also love the mix of old and modern. By the way, I’d like to complete about 90% of the nursery, then if it’s a boy throw in some orange accents and if it’s a girl use some deep plum…but, hey, I could always throw both in. What other room could you do that without being put into a padded facility?

Pin Theft - image dbfcf-crib on https://megactsout.com
I know, this is an unimpressive picture, but the link provides you with some DIY crib skirt ideas. I’ve already purchased a $2 sheet that seems to be an antique (but who minds cutting an antique sheet when it cost $2?!) which will hopefully work for this project. It’ll add some of the classic, ruffly baby softness to the space.
Pin Theft - image 20f7a-yellow on https://megactsout.com
This is another unimpressive picture, but it’s close to an accent color I’d like to use, specifically to paint a free dresser we’ve got (luckily, it’s not as big as this…although I’m starting to wonder whether it’ll be big ENOUGH, eep!) that will double as a changing table.

Pin Theft - image 2696d-iloveu on https://megactsout.com
 Aaaaand here’s the art! Yes, it’s the alphabet twice…see anything else? 😉
I’ve recreated this using a blue instead of gray and a neat stamped font.

Pin Theft - image fecc7-sunshine on https://megactsout.com
Here’s another theft on my part. My version uses the same colors, but a different font and a small, horizontal layout. My mother sang this to me as a child, so I HAD to have it in the room somehow.

Pin Theft - image 7cdec-sleepy on https://megactsout.com
How cheeky is this?!
I used the inspiration from this piece, but it looks quite different – with a green background and another cool stamped font. I LOVE this one.

Pin Theft - image 405fa-jars on https://megactsout.com
 The inspiration from this nursery was the idea of some of the accessories, but more importantly the large glass jar used as storage. See the jar at upper left housing the old alphabet blocks? Why I think that’s neat, I have no idea. I just do.

So, that’s just a handful of nursery inspiration I found on Pinterest. Whatchya think? Disjointed and hard to picture? Or neat ideas that’ll create a fun, creative space? Feel free to share an opinion.

Pin Theft

As many women using the world wide web, I likes me some Pinterest. (Sorry, guys – I have yet to see a single non-chick using it. Feel free to Friend me if you’re a fan of it, too!) I’m not addicted to it, but I can see how a person could easily jump into that territory. There’s just so much inspirational material out there on the web; how could we NOT love a tool that helps us “save” ideas for later and share with friends?!

The funny thing is that part of my job is learning and educating about the responsible use of information – ie plagiarism, intellectual property, etc. Every time I pin something, I think about where it’s coming from, if the individual who originally posted it to the internet CARES that it may get pinned (and the original source in the process) dozens of times, and whether it’s legal. But, I do it, anyway.

I know that a lot of the stuff on Pinterest is actually originally shared by bloggers, who love knowing that people may try their idea (a craft, recipe, DIY project, etc) or find inspiration to do their own thing. Heck, lots of blogs ENCOURAGE us to pin their ideas. So, that’s what I’m telling myself every time I decide to repin for my own purposes. However, the items that I’m sharing here today are from the original sites (not the reproductions that I’ve been inspired to create)…just to be clear. Now, for the fun, hee hee.

For me, Pinterest has been valuable for planning my nursery. Talk about inspiration! Beyond the fact that I have actual proof that a nursery can be blue and NOT shout “It’s a Boy!” loudly (remember, we’re not finding out the sex…and we’re stickin’ to it ;-)), there are a kazillion ideas for nursery art. It’s to the point where Dave jokingly says that we’ll run out of room…and it just occurred to me that I should just keep pinning since, one day, we might just have a playroom (in a different house). 😉 Mwahahaha, he’s not safe!

So, here are some of my favorite nursery pins (the images are linked to their original sources)…Pin Theft - image 30f78-nursery on https://megactsout.com

While there’s a tad more green to the wall color, this gave me some great inspiration for our room. Sure, there’s lots about it that we won’t be doing; we’ve got a dark wood antique rocker to use, our floors ain’t that purdy (we’ve got a large neutral rug that I’d like to layer a couple of throw rugs with), and we’ll have a lot more color. But, I LOVE the combination of blue and yellow, plus the embroidery hoop-with-patterend-fabric wall art.

Pin Theft - image 7fb00-nursery2 on https://megactsout.comWhile the orange isn’t a definite, the brightness and combination of fun color are definitely an inspiration for our space. I also love the mix of old and modern. By the way, I’d like to complete about 90% of the nursery, then if it’s a boy throw in some orange accents and if it’s a girl use some deep plum…but, hey, I could always throw both in. What other room could you do that without being put into a padded facility?

Pin Theft - image dbfcf-crib on https://megactsout.comI know, this is an unimpressive picture, but the link provides you with some DIY crib skirt ideas. I’ve already purchased a $2 sheet that seems to be an antique (but who minds cutting an antique sheet when it cost $2?!) which will hopefully work for this project. It’ll add some of the classic, ruffly baby softness to the space.
Pin Theft - image 20f7a-yellow on https://megactsout.comThis is another unimpressive picture, but it’s close to an accent color I’d like to use, specifically to paint a free dresser we’ve got (luckily, it’s not as big as this…although I’m starting to wonder whether it’ll be big ENOUGH, eep!) that will double as a changing table.
Pin Theft - image 2696d-iloveu on https://megactsout.com Aaaaand here’s the art! Yes, it’s the alphabet twice…see anything else? 😉
I’ve recreated this using a blue instead of gray and a neat stamped font.
Pin Theft - image fecc7-sunshine on https://megactsout.comHere’s another theft on my part. My version uses the same colors, but a different font and a small, horizontal layout. My mother sang this to me as a child, so I HAD to have it in the room somehow.
Pin Theft - image 7cdec-sleepy on https://megactsout.comHow cheeky is this?!
I used the inspiration from this piece, but it looks quite different – with a green background and another cool stamped font. I LOVE this one.
Pin Theft - image 405fa-jars on https://megactsout.com The inspiration from this nursery was the idea of some of the accessories, but more importantly the large glass jar used as storage. See the jar at upper left housing the old alphabet blocks? Why I think that’s neat, I have no idea. I just do.
So, that’s just a handful of nursery inspiration I found on Pinterest. Whatchya think? Disjointed and hard to picture? Or neat ideas that’ll create a fun, creative space? Feel free to share an opinion.

Prenatal Yoga

Pin Theft - image on https://megactsout.com

I’ve mentioned wanting to try yoga, and most recently prenatal yoga, a few times. My reasons have ranged from exercise to improving my mood to helping in the birthing process — ohhh, there are lots of reasons. So, after work last Friday, I ran home to change into something comfortable and headed to Universal Yoga Center in New Hartford. (That’s about 30 minutes away, for the record. And, no, there’s nothing even similar any closer to home. Boo.) On this particular day, I was lucky enough to have Dave in tow for a post-yoga date.

So, he dropped me off and headed out to kill time while I got my stretch on. I was the first to arrive (I’d been told to come early to fill out a short form), and nervously got myself situated. There were approximately 7 other ladies there (plus the incredible instructor), all ranging from 17 to 36 weeks pregnant.

I don’t remember everything about the experience since I was focusing on learning new stretches and feeling the connection with my body and with the baby. I was definitely the “newest”, so the instructor seemed to pay some extra attention to me at more challenging points. The yoga itself was all about modification — especially focusing on the fact that, being pregnant, we may want to try some moves differently than even other women in the room, and definitely differently than how certain types of yoga might be taught.

What I don’t recall as far as the technicalities of the yoga itself, my memory makes up for with experiences and ambiance. The low lighting (there’s a lot to be said for Christmas lights – it’s the first time I’ve seen lighting like that that wasn’t reminiscent of a college dorm) and Eastern instrumental music were instantly calming. The instructor’s calm sweetness was inviting and caring – and perfect for a bunch of pregnant ladies! The stretching and moving wasn’t altogether too challenging (although there were a couple that proved to me that I need some more balance practice) but just “uncomfortable” enough to provide a mild workout while giving options for relaxation and other needs during labor or as the pregnancy continues. I honestly can’t say enough good about the experience.

The breathing techniques and little “tips” that the instructor provided (such as trying one stretch, in a modified way, to help with sciatica issues — my mom was jealous about that one since apparently I gave her such troubles when she was pregnant with me) were awesome. While the baby stayed pretty much motionless, it started moving during something called the “puppy pose” (an upside-down pose). I like to think the little one enjoyed it, but it just occurred to me that the opposite might have been true, hee hee. At the end of the session, after a long, deep breathing exercise, we made lotus blossoms with our hands and gave up a wish/intention for the baby up and into the universe (or to God, depending on what you believe). THAT was powerful.

The best part of the whole thing (other than that I didn’t realize my first session was free – score!) was when I met Dave at the car. I was throwing my bags in the backseat and getting myself situated while he blabbered on – “How was it? Did you like it? Were they nice? Did something happen? Was it okay? Do you hurt?” I think that he had hopes as high as I did about it, and a quiet Meg is a very rare thing. After I had strapped myself into the passenger seat, I finally said, “I’m relaxed.” “Oh! Good!!” I got to the business of explaining things shortly thereafter, but his excitement (and apparent nervousness) about it all had him bouncing off the walls. Can’t complain about that!

Oh, and for the record, that night he read the children’s book he had purchased (while I was at yoga ;-)) to my belly and got to feel it kick for the first time. Overall, it was a very special evening. Throw in a farmers’ market trip the next morning, and it was one of the best weekends we’ve had in awhile.

So, will I be going back? Let’s just say that there isn’t a session this week, so I’ll be returning for their next class. I enjoyed the process so much that I can foresee trying the “mommy and me” yoga (or even just “regular” yoga classes) in the future. The exercises speak to me in their timing (not too quick/extreme, not too slow/boring), with their focus on breathing, relaxation, and inner focus, and the underlying calmness from the instructor’s tone and the music (a variation of which I listened to on my Sirius satellite radio the next day – seriously).

Prenatal Yoga

Pin Theft - image c40fe-yoga on https://megactsout.comI’ve mentioned wanting to try yoga, and most recently prenatal yoga, a few times. My reasons have ranged from exercise to improving my mood to helping in the birthing process — ohhh, there are lots of reasons. So, after work last Friday, I ran home to change into something comfortable and headed to Universal Yoga Center in New Hartford. (That’s about 30 minutes away, for the record. And, no, there’s nothing even similar any closer to home. Boo.) On this particular day, I was lucky enough to have Dave in tow for a post-yoga date.

So, he dropped me off and headed out to kill time while I got my stretch on. I was the first to arrive (I’d been told to come early to fill out a short form), and nervously got myself situated. There were approximately 7 other ladies there (plus the incredible instructor), all ranging from 17 to 36 weeks pregnant.

I don’t remember everything about the experience since I was focusing on learning new stretches and feeling the connection with my body and with the baby. I was definitely the “newest”, so the instructor seemed to pay some extra attention to me at more challenging points. The yoga itself was all about modification — especially focusing on the fact that, being pregnant, we may want to try some moves differently than even other women in the room, and definitely differently than how certain types of yoga might be taught.

What I don’t recall as far as the technicalities of the yoga itself, my memory makes up for with experiences and ambiance. The low lighting (there’s a lot to be said for Christmas lights – it’s the first time I’ve seen lighting like that that wasn’t reminiscent of a college dorm) and Eastern instrumental music were instantly calming. The instructor’s calm sweetness was inviting and caring – and perfect for a bunch of pregnant ladies! The stretching and moving wasn’t altogether too challenging (although there were a couple that proved to me that I need some more balance practice) but just “uncomfortable” enough to provide a mild workout while giving options for relaxation and other needs during labor or as the pregnancy continues. I honestly can’t say enough good about the experience.

The breathing techniques and little “tips” that the instructor provided (such as trying one stretch, in a modified way, to help with sciatica issues — my mom was jealous about that one since apparently I gave her such troubles when she was pregnant with me) were awesome. While the baby stayed pretty much motionless, it started moving during something called the “puppy pose” (an upside-down pose). I like to think the little one enjoyed it, but it just occurred to me that the opposite might have been true, hee hee. At the end of the session, after a long, deep breathing exercise, we made lotus blossoms with our hands and gave up a wish/intention for the baby up and into the universe (or to God, depending on what you believe). THAT was powerful.

The best part of the whole thing (other than that I didn’t realize my first session was free – score!) was when I met Dave at the car. I was throwing my bags in the backseat and getting myself situated while he blabbered on – “How was it? Did you like it? Were they nice? Did something happen? Was it okay? Do you hurt?” I think that he had hopes as high as I did about it, and a quiet Meg is a very rare thing. After I had strapped myself into the passenger seat, I finally said, “I’m relaxed.” “Oh! Good!!” I got to the business of explaining things shortly thereafter, but his excitement (and apparent nervousness) about it all had him bouncing off the walls. Can’t complain about that!

Oh, and for the record, that night he read the children’s book he had purchased (while I was at yoga ;-)) to my belly and got to feel it kick for the first time. Overall, it was a very special evening. Throw in a farmers’ market trip the next morning, and it was one of the best weekends we’ve had in awhile.

So, will I be going back? Let’s just say that there isn’t a session this week, so I’ll be returning for their next class. I enjoyed the process so much that I can foresee trying the “mommy and me” yoga (or even just “regular” yoga classes) in the future. The exercises speak to me in their timing (not too quick/extreme, not too slow/boring), with their focus on breathing, relaxation, and inner focus, and the underlying calmness from the instructor’s tone and the music (a variation of which I listened to on my Sirius satellite radio the next day – seriously).

Random Pregnancy Post

By “random” I mean some random pregnancy thoughts, all rolled into one post. 🙂 Just to clarify.

Pin Theft - image on https://megactsout.com

– Yes, I’ve finally got “a bump”. Strangely enough, I haven’t had any strangers comment on it yet, nor anyone who didn’t already know I was pregnant. A few students are looking at me strangely or whisper to each other, but that’s not really different from any other day. 😉 I figure strangers aren’t mentioning it because it still looks a bit like a lady who ate a huge Thanksgiving dinner rather than “there’s something growing in there” belly. Bought a pair of jeans the next size up from Goodwill (they were brand new, thankyouverymuch), but think I’ll need to do a tad more shopping to get me through this “in between” phase. Going to try out a few consignment shops in the area. Oh, and I’ve definitely got some stuff for when I get BIG.

– Speaking of clothes, my sister was awesome enough to give us a huge Tupperware container full of her newborn, 0-3 months, 3-6 months (and even beyond!) clothes from her current little bundle of joy. (When I say “bundle of joy”, I really mean it. She’s awesome.) Most of the clothes are neutral since they didn’t learn the sex of her baby prior, either. I know some folks are dying to buy clothes, but I’m happy with what we currently have. We’re still clinging tight to the “simplify, simplify, simplify” motto. 

– Movement is a-happenin’. Not a whole lot, but it’s there. It’s not so much a “flutter” as folks have described it, since it’s not that ticklish or butterfly-like, but it’s definitely not quite yet a “kick”. Mind you, if I was the over-sharing type to post an ultrasound picture, you’d see in one of the latest that this kid’s got McCoy legs — like long frog legs. So, I figure sooner than later it’ll start to feel more like a soccer game in “mah bellay.” (Fat Bastard? Anyone? Sorry, the hubs and I have a small connection to Austin Powers.)

– It was cool to search for a food question and actually receive a resounding “Yes, you CAN eat that – actually, eat MORE of it!” rather than the usual “Ruh roh. Don’t do that.” (It was like landing on “Go to Jail” in Monopoly. Wop wop.) I’ve been eating a little less healthily lately, for whatever reason (mostly exhaustion and laziness), but always with a piece of fruit or yogurt or glass of milk, so I’m clearly still in the game. But, when I went shopping for my usual large container of Chobani at Hannaford the other day, my frustration grew even further – they had done away with my strawberry. Consider my cheese MOVED. Don’t move a pregnant lady’s cheese.

Out of spite and a bad mood (and presumably to prove a point…to whom, I have no idea ;-)), I purchased one of the over-priced regular-sized Chobanis and a 4-pack of Stonyfield Farm’s Organic Probiotic Strawberry Yogurt. A sudden buyer’s remorse swirled in my head – “Wait. Those probiotic thingies are alive. Am I allowed to have this?” Clearly, I can, and I look forward to seeing if it helps any of the stomach “issues” I’ve been having since becoming pregnant – and have even read that doctors have advised that kids who may be a little “off” in that area should eat the stuff. Neat! Putting that in my back pocket for now.

– Not sure if it’s hormones or just environmental/exterior factors, but I’ve been a tad bummed lately. Trying to control it, since I’d rather send nothing but positive vibes to the little one, but it’s been a challenge. Working on it. (See the bottom bullet to find out how I’m working on it. ;-))

– I couldn’t be happier that the weekend is upon us (and that a week-long vacation starts a week from today). The pregnancy exhaustion has hit me again, and there’s just so much we’d like to get done…but I wish just a little that I could accomplish those tasks without it taking the wind out of my sails completely. It can be tough to take it all in stride, but I wish I could. Trying! And hoping that a couple of the “sit in sweats and use the computer” assignments on my to-do list can get accomplished, at least. 😉

– Apparently, the baby can officially hear what’s happening in the outside world. If this is the case, he/she has been learning how to politely say “no thank you” (or “our budget was cut…”) to a kazillion book vendors on the phone today. I’m sure this talent will serve him/her well one day.

– I can’t wait to create a “mood board” to post about the nursery. I’d like to share more about our home goings-on (since, hey, most of the blogs I love and one of my new, favorite distractions is design, DIY and purdy stuff) – plus, it’s fun to see what folks think. When they’re nice. *wink* We’ve already got two of the colors down (plus white and wood – do those count as colors? *double wink*) and I just have to nail down the third. Hint: It’s yellow…just not sure whether it’s a softer, buttery yellow or a fun, bright yellow. And, yes, there will be a fourth color — after the little nugget arrives on good ol’ Planet Earth.

– Oh, yes, I finally touched base with the Universal Yoga Center in New Hartford about some prenatal yoga classes. (Sarah, are you proud?!?!) I’m also grabbing a prenatal yoga DVD to see how I feel about it. Either way, feeling proactive about my health and the baby’s well-being (and forcing myself to get off of my butt and DO something for myself) has to be a good thing. 😉 My doctors have asked if I’ve been exercising, and my “are you kidding? Does laundry count?” response doesn’t seem valid anymore.

So, those are the random thoughts that have been bopping around my head. Oh, and that I’ve GOTTA call Shauna to chat about cloth diapers, making laundry detergent, and even finances when my energy finds me again. 🙂 Feel free to share any random thoughts you’ve been having lately – or comment on how silly mine are!

Random Pregnancy Post

By “random” I mean some random pregnancy thoughts, all rolled into one post. 🙂 Just to clarify.Pin Theft - image on https://megactsout.com

– Yes, I’ve finally got “a bump”. Strangely enough, I haven’t had any strangers comment on it yet, nor anyone who didn’t already know I was pregnant. A few students are looking at me strangely or whisper to each other, but that’s not really different from any other day. 😉 I figure strangers aren’t mentioning it because it still looks a bit like a lady who ate a huge Thanksgiving dinner rather than “there’s something growing in there” belly. Bought a pair of jeans the next size up from Goodwill (they were brand new, thankyouverymuch), but think I’ll need to do a tad more shopping to get me through this “in between” phase. Going to try out a few consignment shops in the area. Oh, and I’ve definitely got some stuff for when I get BIG.

– Speaking of clothes, my sister was awesome enough to give us a huge Tupperware container full of her newborn, 0-3 months, 3-6 months (and even beyond!) clothes from her current little bundle of joy. (When I say “bundle of joy”, I really mean it. She’s awesome.) Most of the clothes are neutral since they didn’t learn the sex of her baby prior, either. I know some folks are dying to buy clothes, but I’m happy with what we currently have. We’re still clinging tight to the “simplify, simplify, simplify” motto.

– Movement is a-happenin’. Not a whole lot, but it’s there. It’s not so much a “flutter” as folks have described it, since it’s not that ticklish or butterfly-like, but it’s definitely not quite yet a “kick”. Mind you, if I was the over-sharing type to post an ultrasound picture, you’d see in one of the latest that this kid’s got McCoy legs — like long frog legs. So, I figure sooner than later it’ll start to feel more like a soccer game in “mah bellay.” (Fat Bastard? Anyone? Sorry, the hubs and I have a small connection to Austin Powers.)

– It was cool to search for a food question and actually receive a resounding “Yes, you CAN eat that – actually, eat MORE of it!” rather than the usual “Ruh roh. Don’t do that.” (It was like landing on “Go to Jail” in Monopoly. Wop wop.) I’ve been eating a little less healthily lately, for whatever reason (mostly exhaustion and laziness), but always with a piece of fruit or yogurt or glass of milk, so I’m clearly still in the game. But, when I went shopping for my usual large container of Chobani at Hannaford the other day, my frustration grew even further – they had done away with my strawberry. Consider my cheese MOVED. Don’t move a pregnant lady’s cheese.

Out of spite and a bad mood (and presumably to prove a point…to whom, I have no idea ;-)), I purchased one of the over-priced regular-sized Chobanis and a 4-pack of Stonyfield Farm’s Organic Probiotic Strawberry Yogurt. A sudden buyer’s remorse swirled in my head – “Wait. Those probiotic thingies are alive. Am I allowed to have this?” Clearly, I can, and I look forward to seeing if it helps any of the stomach “issues” I’ve been having since becoming pregnant – and have even read that doctors have advised that kids who may be a little “off” in that area should eat the stuff. Neat! Putting that in my back pocket for now.

– Not sure if it’s hormones or just environmental/exterior factors, but I’ve been a tad bummed lately. Trying to control it, since I’d rather send nothing but positive vibes to the little one, but it’s been a challenge. Working on it. (See the bottom bullet to find out how I’m working on it. ;-))

– I couldn’t be happier that the weekend is upon us (and that a week-long vacation starts a week from today). The pregnancy exhaustion has hit me again, and there’s just so much we’d like to get done…but I wish just a little that I could accomplish those tasks without it taking the wind out of my sails completely. It can be tough to take it all in stride, but I wish I could. Trying! And hoping that a couple of the “sit in sweats and use the computer” assignments on my to-do list can get accomplished, at least. 😉

– Apparently, the baby can officially hear what’s happening in the outside world. If this is the case, he/she has been learning how to politely say “no thank you” (or “our budget was cut…”) to a kazillion book vendors on the phone today. I’m sure this talent will serve him/her well one day.

– I can’t wait to create a “mood board” to post about the nursery. I’d like to share more about our home goings-on (since, hey, most of the blogs I love and one of my new, favorite distractions is design, DIY and purdy stuff) – plus, it’s fun to see what folks think. When they’re nice. *wink* We’ve already got two of the colors down (plus white and wood – do those count as colors? *double wink*) and I just have to nail down the third. Hint: It’s yellow…just not sure whether it’s a softer, buttery yellow or a fun, bright yellow. And, yes, there will be a fourth color — after the little nugget arrives on good ol’ Planet Earth.

– Oh, yes, I finally touched base with the Universal Yoga Center in New Hartford about some prenatal yoga classes. (Sarah, are you proud?!?!) I’m also grabbing a prenatal yoga DVD to see how I feel about it. Either way, feeling proactive about my health and the baby’s well-being (and forcing myself to get off of my butt and DO something for myself) has to be a good thing. 😉 My doctors have asked if I’ve been exercising, and my “are you kidding? Does laundry count?” response doesn’t seem valid anymore.

So, those are the random thoughts that have been bopping around my head. Oh, and that I’ve GOTTA call Shauna to chat about cloth diapers, making laundry detergent, and even finances when my energy finds me again. 🙂 Feel free to share any random thoughts you’ve been having lately – or comment on how silly mine are!

Post-Pregnancy Bucket List

I’m lucky. SUPER lucky. (That’s even more than “uber”, in case you didn’t know.) I got pregnant easily — almost too easily, I know I’ll be jinxed in the future. Things are going incredibly smoothly. The only nausea I get anymore is something I’d deal with normally, thanks to a healthy dose of GIRD in my life. We keep hearing the heartbeat, and get to see the occasional wave (and McCoy legs and crazy well-developed spine…and possibly Daddy’s nose), which, some days, I worry about. I don’t FEEL very pregnant…so, AM I STILL?!?! It’s enough to drive a woman mad. So, yeah. Things are good.

While being so lucky, I’m also inclined to feel…mmm…a tad…left out. There is a lot of stuff preggers ladies are told that they can’t or shouldn’t do. I’m pretty strict about most of it. Even the crazy “I never heard that” stuff, like avoid pineapples (and I believe mangoes and coconut, but pineapples are much more a part of my regular diet). Seriously, my poor mother cut up an entire pineapple for me to snack on and I couldn’t!

So, without further ado, I shall indulge in my totally well-meaning, in no way whiny bitch-fest…(Warning: Numerous food items mentioned are neither all-natural nor organic…nor healthy. It is what it is, I make no excuses other than — the baby did it!)

– A bologna sandwich…on white or wheat (SOFT, please)…with yellow mustard. May or may not contain American cheese. I’ve wanted this as long as I’ve been pregnant. I’m hoping someone will meet me at the hospital with one. I’d do unspeakable things for one.

– Wine. More specifically, New York State wine. It’s sweeter (and some would say suckier) than the “good stuff”. Oh, and Fly Creek Cider Mill’s special flavored wines. Yep.

– On the boozy subject (and not to sound like a complete lush), a) amaretto sour, b) strawberry daiquiri, c) anything else involving rum and fruit.

– Why do I want to go skiing so badly?

– The same goes for hiking.

– And canoeing.

– And camping, in general. While I adore camping (be it the “don’t bathe for days and live in a tent” kind or the “rent a heated facility on the lake” kind), Dave’s not a huge fan and it’s just not something we’ve contemplated for vacationing. Well, I’ve dreamed about it, but particularly one day when we’d have kids (and nieces and nephews) along for the fun.

– Sleep any gosh darn way I please. Strangely enough, it’s not just that I “shouldn’t” sleep on my belly or back, but this whole “sleep on the left side, it’s best for the baby” thing just FEELS better. Of course, I’m a toss-‘n-turner, so I can’t break that habit…and while the belly isn’t very big yet, it’s definitely a maneuver to shiiiiiift all the weight from one side to another. It’ll only get worse, and the cats seem to know when the “harass Mommy and Daddy” hour (ie feed us, 5am MUST be breakfast time, right?) is. Ah, I suppose that’s all training for the baby, too.

– Will I EVER get a normal tinkle schedule again?! That is all.

– Paintin’ stuff…carryin’ stuff…generally being that “I can get it” type of lady. Given the chilly (albeit mild) winter weather we’ve got, I don’t feel comfortable painting stuff inside. I’ll be using some low-VOC primer and paint for a project we’re undertaking this weekend, but y’know. I couldn’t even help the hubs with his Drylok project in the basement. And, I know my mother was painting stuff pretty much up until I was born, but who says I want the kid turning out like me? 😉

– Oh, yeah. Pineapple. (Mmm. I foresee living on fruit salad when we bring the newborn home. With the occasional bologna sandwich. ;-D)

I’m sure there’s a kazillion more things that I’m missing, but in case you didn’t know, I’m pregnant, and pregnancy brain is definitely not a myth. My normally forgetful non-pregnant brain is bad enough.

Is there anything you’re itching to do, eat, or experience? Do tell!

Post-Pregnancy Bucket List

I’m lucky. SUPER lucky. (That’s even more than “uber”, in case you didn’t know.) I got pregnant easily — almost too easily, I know I’ll be jinxed in the future. Things are going incredibly smoothly. The only nausea I get anymore is something I’d deal with normally, thanks to a healthy dose of GIRD in my life. We keep hearing the heartbeat, and get to see the occasional wave (and McCoy legs and crazy well-developed spine…and possibly Daddy’s nose), which, some days, I worry about. I don’t FEEL very pregnant…so, AM I STILL?!?! It’s enough to drive a woman mad. So, yeah. Things are good.

While being so lucky, I’m also inclined to feel…mmm…a tad…left out. There is a lot of stuff preggers ladies are told that they can’t or shouldn’t do. I’m pretty strict about most of it. Even the crazy “I never heard that” stuff, like avoid pineapples (and I believe mangoes and coconut, but pineapples are much more a part of my regular diet). Seriously, my poor mother cut up an entire pineapple for me to snack on and I couldn’t!

So, without further ado, I shall indulge in my totally well-meaning, in no way whiny bitch-fest…(Warning: Numerous food items mentioned are neither all-natural nor organic…nor healthy. It is what it is, I make no excuses other than — the baby did it!)

– A bologna sandwich…on white or wheat (SOFT, please)…with yellow mustard. May or may not contain American cheese. I’ve wanted this as long as I’ve been pregnant. I’m hoping someone will meet me at the hospital with one. I’d do unspeakable things for one.

– Wine. More specifically, New York State wine. It’s sweeter (and some would say suckier) than the “good stuff”. Oh, and Fly Creek Cider Mill’s special flavored wines. Yep.

– On the boozy subject (and not to sound like a complete lush), a) amaretto sour, b) strawberry daiquiri, c) anything else involving rum and fruit.

– Why do I want to go skiing so badly?

– The same goes for hiking.

– And canoeing.

– And camping, in general. While I adore camping (be it the “don’t bathe for days and live in a tent” kind or the “rent a heated facility on the lake” kind), Dave’s not a huge fan and it’s just not something we’ve contemplated for vacationing. Well, I’ve dreamed about it, but particularly one day when we’d have kids (and nieces and nephews) along for the fun.

– Sleep any gosh darn way I please. Strangely enough, it’s not just that I “shouldn’t” sleep on my belly or back, but this whole “sleep on the left side, it’s best for the baby” thing just FEELS better. Of course, I’m a toss-‘n-turner, so I can’t break that habit…and while the belly isn’t very big yet, it’s definitely a maneuver to shiiiiiift all the weight from one side to another. It’ll only get worse, and the cats seem to know when the “harass Mommy and Daddy” hour (ie feed us, 5am MUST be breakfast time, right?) is. Ah, I suppose that’s all training for the baby, too.

– Will I EVER get a normal tinkle schedule again?! That is all.

– Paintin’ stuff…carryin’ stuff…generally being that “I can get it” type of lady. Given the chilly (albeit mild) winter weather we’ve got, I don’t feel comfortable painting stuff inside. I’ll be using some low-VOC primer and paint for a project we’re undertaking this weekend, but y’know. I couldn’t even help the hubs with his Drylok project in the basement. And, I know my mother was painting stuff pretty much up until I was born, but who says I want the kid turning out like me? 😉

– Oh, yeah. Pineapple. (Mmm. I foresee living on fruit salad when we bring the newborn home. With the occasional bologna sandwich. ;-D)

I’m sure there’s a kazillion more things that I’m missing, but in case you didn’t know, I’m pregnant, and pregnancy brain is definitely not a myth. My normally forgetful non-pregnant brain is bad enough.

Is there anything you’re itching to do, eat, or experience? Do tell!

Diaper Debate

Pin Theft - image on https://megactsout.com

I’ve been researching diapers for months. Months ‘n months ‘n months. Seriously, long before I found out that we’re pregnant. Strangely enough, I got away from my obsessive searching after I got the news, so it feels like I’m re-starting the search all over again. I had found so many incredible resources online that I feel like I’m sifting through big piles of…ahem, diapers.

Why all the diaper research, Meg? What question do you need to find out? Where to buy them? What brand is the cheapest?

Nope. I feel like I’m about to “put my foot in it”, but I suppose part of being a parent is having your decisions questioned, and eyebrows raised. Go right ahead- this is a decision that my husband and I are making, and if it doesn’t work out for us, we’re willing to admit our mistakes. I figure this whole experience is one big lesson after another. Nobody’s an expert…except maybe Michelle Duggar, and even she gets raised eyebrows from time to time.

Anyhoo, the big “what, are you nuts?” revelation is the fact that we’d like to try cloth diapering. There are plenty of reasons, in our minds, to take this route:

– Long-term cost. While the initial investment is just that – a major investment – lots of sources have indicated that the diapers that we’re considering will pay for themselves in comparison to disposables. From diaperingdecisions.com, it’s stated that over the course of 3 years, one will spend $2694.54 for 7,349 disposable, single use diapers – at a moderate estimate (nevermind if your kid has lots of extra blowouts and accidents). Depending on our budget (of course I’m researching every available option of purchase, and which diapers get the best reviews/last the longest), we’ll be spending many hundreds fewer than $1000 for diapers that will grow with our baby until they’re no longer needed. Also, when it comes to laundering, “Consumer Report estimates that the most inefficient washer and dryer system costs approximately $0.78 per load to launder whereas more efficient models will cost approximately $0.44 per load to launder. So wash your own, twice a week for between 44-78 cents including water, hydro and detergent or spend $16.94 to $22.05 for single use disposable diapers.” Woot. Besides, if I think about it enough, I know I’ll be doing tons of baby clothes (which are tiny), so we can wash them together. Kind of how we just throw our cloth napkins in with our usual white loads (which we’re still going strong with, thankyouverymuch).

– Ecological impact. Lots of folks argue that disposables aren’t THAT ecologically bad when compared to the energy used when cleaning cloth diapers. Even with the dinosaur washer and dryer that we run, it’s greener. Further information from diaperingdecisions.com: “Consider the numbers: 36 cloth diapers, that are used over and over; most likely for more than one child, or on average 7,349 single use diapers per child. One time use throw away diapers are the single largest non recyclable component of household garbage, creating 1 ton of garbage per year per child.” The process of rinsing and flushing out diapers, then washing once or twice a week utilize sewage that will be treated and released back into the environment properly. Disposables…eh, well, I think they’re the devil as far as their biodegradability.

– Comfort. After reading lots of personal blogs (none of which were perked by any companies for their reviews), a common thread is the fact that a lot of children don’t have diaper rash when parents use cloth diapers. Sure, every butt’s different (and how!), but between the good rash-free odds and the fact that no plastic-y, paper-y feelings will be on baby’s bum, I’m a happy mommy. I even heard that in 1970 (back when cloth was pretty much king) less than 10% of kids experienced diaper rash; today, it’s closer to 80-90%.

– Longevity. We’re hoping to have a brood (ie more than one baby). Do you think those future babies will be able to wear their big brother or sister’s disposable diapers? Um, ew. Nope. But, if I learn how to properly care for these (plus the fact that I’m looking into the snap options rather than velcro, which tends to get weak over time), we may only have to purchase the occasional newbie. If that. 🙂

– “If it was good enough for my mother…” My mom was pretty basic and old school – she raised 4 kids, all on cloth diapers. (Have I mentioned I love her for her simplicity in raising us??) She also worked as a hairdresser (using our front porch, of all places), so it’s not like she had all day to do laundry. PLUS, those were the days of safety pins and the old flat diapers as the only option, until disposable diapers came along – far too expensive for our family. While technology has changed (you can get 4-in-1’s, organics, pockets…holy crap, everything), I still love the idea behind ’em.

Arguments against? Well, the financials aren’t quite a drop in the bucket initially (more like the whole bucket), and time is a hard thing to control these days. Add that to the fact that we’d like to *try* to breast feed, and there’s a good chance I may never leave the house again. Hee hee, just kidding. We’ll make it work.

I’m still deciding between some brands and would prefer to just buy one, especially if I see iffy reviews here and there, so I’m sure I’ll let you know a) what we end up deciding and b) in the long-term, how things go. Lots of cloth diapering mamas on the interwebs share their disaster stories as well as their success stories, and I’m all about honesty.

In the interest of full disclosure, we’re talking about using some more eco-friendly newborn disposable diapers for the first week or two (especially if breast feeding works out), and will probably use the occasional disposable when traveling. Depending on our babysitting situation, we’d like to be able to continue with the cloth diapering if possible. 🙂

Diaper Debate

Pin Theft - image 054d3-cloth on https://megactsout.comI’ve been researching diapers for months. Months ‘n months ‘n months. Seriously, long before I found out that we’re pregnant. Strangely enough, I got away from my obsessive searching after I got the news, so it feels like I’m re-starting the search all over again. I had found so many incredible resources online that I feel like I’m sifting through big piles of…ahem, diapers.
Why all the diaper research, Meg? What question do you need to find out? Where to buy them? What brand is the cheapest?

Nope. I feel like I’m about to “put my foot in it”, but I suppose part of being a parent is having your decisions questioned, and eyebrows raised. Go right ahead- this is a decision that my husband and I are making, and if it doesn’t work out for us, we’re willing to admit our mistakes. I figure this whole experience is one big lesson after another. Nobody’s an expert…except maybe Michelle Duggar, and even she gets raised eyebrows from time to time.

Anyhoo, the big “what, are you nuts?” revelation is the fact that we’d like to try cloth diapering. There are plenty of reasons, in our minds, to take this route:

– Long-term cost. While the initial investment is just that – a major investment – lots of sources have indicated that the diapers that we’re considering will pay for themselves in comparison to disposables. From diaperingdecisions.com, it’s stated that over the course of 3 years, one will spend $2694.54 for 7,349 disposable, single use diapers – at a moderate estimate (nevermind if your kid has lots of extra blowouts and accidents). Depending on our budget (of course I’m researching every available option of purchase, and which diapers get the best reviews/last the longest), we’ll be spending many hundreds fewer than $1000 for diapers that will grow with our baby until they’re no longer needed. Also, when it comes to laundering, “Consumer Report estimates that the most inefficient washer and dryer system costs approximately $0.78 per load to launder whereas more efficient models will cost approximately $0.44 per load to launder. So wash your own, twice a week for between 44-78 cents including water, hydro and detergent or spend $16.94 to $22.05 for single use disposable diapers.” Woot. Besides, if I think about it enough, I know I’ll be doing tons of baby clothes (which are tiny), so we can wash them together. Kind of how we just throw our cloth napkins in with our usual white loads (which we’re still going strong with, thankyouverymuch).

– Ecological impact. Lots of folks argue that disposables aren’t THAT ecologically bad when compared to the energy used when cleaning cloth diapers. Even with the dinosaur washer and dryer that we run, it’s greener. Further information from diaperingdecisions.com: “Consider the numbers: 36 cloth diapers, that are used over and over; most likely for more than one child, or on average 7,349 single use diapers per child. One time use throw away diapers are the single largest non recyclable component of household garbage, creating 1 ton of garbage per year per child.” The process of rinsing and flushing out diapers, then washing once or twice a week utilize sewage that will be treated and released back into the environment properly. Disposables…eh, well, I think they’re the devil as far as their biodegradability.

– Comfort. After reading lots of personal blogs (none of which were perked by any companies for their reviews), a common thread is the fact that a lot of children don’t have diaper rash when parents use cloth diapers. Sure, every butt’s different (and how!), but between the good rash-free odds and the fact that no plastic-y, paper-y feelings will be on baby’s bum, I’m a happy mommy. I even heard that in 1970 (back when cloth was pretty much king) less than 10% of kids experienced diaper rash; today, it’s closer to 80-90%.

– Longevity. We’re hoping to have a brood (ie more than one baby). Do you think those future babies will be able to wear their big brother or sister’s disposable diapers? Um, ew. Nope. But, if I learn how to properly care for these (plus the fact that I’m looking into the snap options rather than velcro, which tends to get weak over time), we may only have to purchase the occasional newbie. If that. 🙂

– “If it was good enough for my mother…” My mom was pretty basic and old school – she raised 4 kids, all on cloth diapers. (Have I mentioned I love her for her simplicity in raising us??) She also worked as a hairdresser (using our front porch, of all places), so it’s not like she had all day to do laundry. PLUS, those were the days of safety pins and the old flat diapers as the only option, until disposable diapers came along – far too expensive for our family. While technology has changed (you can get 4-in-1’s, organics, pockets…holy crap, everything), I still love the idea behind ’em.

Arguments against? Well, the financials aren’t quite a drop in the bucket initially (more like the whole bucket), and time is a hard thing to control these days. Add that to the fact that we’d like to *try* to breast feed, and there’s a good chance I may never leave the house again. Hee hee, just kidding. We’ll make it work.

I’m still deciding between some brands and would prefer to just buy one, especially if I see iffy reviews here and there, so I’m sure I’ll let you know a) what we end up deciding and b) in the long-term, how things go. Lots of cloth diapering mamas on the interwebs share their disaster stories as well as their success stories, and I’m all about honesty.

In the interest of full disclosure, we’re talking about using some more eco-friendly newborn disposable diapers for the first week or two (especially if breast feeding works out), and will probably use the occasional disposable when traveling. Depending on our babysitting situation, we’d like to be able to continue with the cloth diapering if possible. 🙂