My first week back to work is over.
THE GOOD
My office is decorated and I know where everything is.
Bradley has adjusted to the new routine well. Including refusing feedings so he can wait for the boob. I knew he'd stretch his feedings eventually.
Lunches are my favorite.
I feel productive again.
I'm wearing makeup, doing my hair and dressing well again.
Bradley is vaccinated.
THE BAD
The work! Man, there were mistakes made in my absence, and it's been a lot to fix! Also, catching up on everything that I missed is taking longer than I expected.
Heels - my feet may have forgotten how to last 8 hours in heels. Get with it, feet.
Bradley got vaccinated - and felt pain for the first time.
THE WEIRD
We only bought Cap'n Crunch, bananas and milk this week at the grocery. We've been eating freezer meals and pizza. And one night I ate M&Ms. Whoops.
My students ruined the supply closet. And it took them 3 hours to get it back into shape today (with a little direction).
I'm craving carbs and pretzels. ALL. THE. TIME.
Bryan's bed head lasts all day on MWF. It's adorable and freakish.
Here's to the new normal. And our first weekend after the workweek. Oh, weekend, you are all mine. Mine to cuddle up the baby.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Thoughts on my first week back to work
I have a new normal.
And it's actually pretty decent.
On my desk sits this cutie. He inspires me, and he is a great ice breaker for people who say they missed me while I was on leave. Well, excuse me, I was making this baby fat and happy.
Let me give you a tour of my new office.
I like it. I'm in the office right next to the Executive Director, and I feel more important.
Bradley had the worst day yesterday. He got his two month shots and was screaming (in pain, I think) after his afternoon nap for an entire hour and couldn't be consoled. After calling our favorite pediatrician, we got the okay to give him baby Tylenol. He took it like a champ and within twenty minutes had calmed down. Poor guy.
My days begin around 4 or 5. Whenever Bradley wakes up, I feed him, then pump and then try to sleep until 6:30. Then I hurry to get ready before he wakes up but before the nanny comes so I can cuddle him. And then Bryan and I head to work.
The best part of my day is lunch!!
I get to hang out with this guy!
And I just love it. He gets excited - or at least I like to pretend that he does when he hears my voice. He starts to fuss as I wash my hands and always stops when he finally gets into my arms.
I love it. And I hurry home from work so I can cuddle him up before bed. Thankfully, he takes a long afternoon nap and I get to be the one to wake him up - usually.
Life is good. I miss the days on the couch in my pajamas, but I really like being back at work, wearing heels, having meetings, hearing "Nicely done, Alyssa" and fixing problems for our students.
Tonight, they're having a World Fair and I've had several kids come by to invite me to come. You can bet your ass I'll be there - and with my baby and husband. Japanese curry? K-Pop dancing to Gangham Style? I'm so there.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
The Working Mom
Today, I returned to work.
And the world didn't implode.
I woke up when Bradley woke up at 6:15. I should've woke at 6am, but I was too tired from the 4am nursing to get myself up and in the shower. I had the sweetest nursing session with the bebe at 6:15 as I thought about how this was the day I'd be apart from him and start the new normal routine.
I put him in the bouncer while I pumped and told him about all the silly things he'd do while I was gone and that he shouldn't love anyone more than me. He thought this was hilarious. Until all of a sudden he didn't and then started screaming. Which woke Bryan and I could shower. After a whirlwind 45 minutes of trying to eat, get halfway dressed, blowdry my hair, pack my purse, make his morning bottle and trying to love on the guy, our nanny was here and I was nursing him for the last morning session. And then all of a sudden, I was driving to work with Bryan.
"It's just like it was before, isn't it?"
"Except you're not pregnant."
"It's just like the good ole days, then."
"You're going to run that stop sign, Alyssa."
My morning flew by. My student staff is 7 girls and 1 boy. Of course, all the girls couldn't stop gushing at the picture of Bradley I brought for my desk or ooohing about my new shoes or how thin I look (I really should get them a raise!). My curmudgeon of boss was even visibly happy to see me saying it's been a nightmare without me, and he's glad I'm back. Okay, so who wouldn't want to have a first day back like that?
Brag alert: I've got a new office with the promotion I was promised and a brand new chair for my recent birthing hips to sit in all day. I mean, going back to work was the easiest thing ever.
Until I had to look at all the work. All morning, I've been in meetings trying to get an idea of where we are in our projects, in our applications, in our current students, in our government registrations, in our study abroads, in our recruitment.
My week is already booked with more meetings and my to do list has grown to a second page. Clearly, this first month back will be busy. And I'm guessing there will be some tears, some mistakes and some frustrations. This is not going to be easy.
At lunch, I ran home to see my baby who was still as cute as I left him, and he had never been more happy to nurse. Apparently, he gave the nanny a thirty minute screaming fest before taking the morning bottle. He took half a second to latch and start lunch with me. Bradley still loves me. Whew.
I went back to work and knocked out a bunch of tasks. One task that should've taken fifteen minutes took me just over an hour - ouch. The transition back to being detail oriented and following complicated procedure is going to be rough!
But, after eight weeks of completing the same tasks over and over and over again, it feels good to do something and know that it's done and won't have to be done again!
I'm happy to have a job and to have a baby. It really is the best of both worlds. I'm sure there will be hard days and days with tears, but thankfully, today wasn't one of them!
Let's see if the rest of the week goes as smoothly as today. Knock on wood.
And the world didn't implode.
I woke up when Bradley woke up at 6:15. I should've woke at 6am, but I was too tired from the 4am nursing to get myself up and in the shower. I had the sweetest nursing session with the bebe at 6:15 as I thought about how this was the day I'd be apart from him and start the new normal routine.
I put him in the bouncer while I pumped and told him about all the silly things he'd do while I was gone and that he shouldn't love anyone more than me. He thought this was hilarious. Until all of a sudden he didn't and then started screaming. Which woke Bryan and I could shower. After a whirlwind 45 minutes of trying to eat, get halfway dressed, blowdry my hair, pack my purse, make his morning bottle and trying to love on the guy, our nanny was here and I was nursing him for the last morning session. And then all of a sudden, I was driving to work with Bryan.
"It's just like it was before, isn't it?"
"Except you're not pregnant."
"It's just like the good ole days, then."
"You're going to run that stop sign, Alyssa."
My morning flew by. My student staff is 7 girls and 1 boy. Of course, all the girls couldn't stop gushing at the picture of Bradley I brought for my desk or ooohing about my new shoes or how thin I look (I really should get them a raise!). My curmudgeon of boss was even visibly happy to see me saying it's been a nightmare without me, and he's glad I'm back. Okay, so who wouldn't want to have a first day back like that?
Brag alert: I've got a new office with the promotion I was promised and a brand new chair for my recent birthing hips to sit in all day. I mean, going back to work was the easiest thing ever.
Until I had to look at all the work. All morning, I've been in meetings trying to get an idea of where we are in our projects, in our applications, in our current students, in our government registrations, in our study abroads, in our recruitment.
My week is already booked with more meetings and my to do list has grown to a second page. Clearly, this first month back will be busy. And I'm guessing there will be some tears, some mistakes and some frustrations. This is not going to be easy.
At lunch, I ran home to see my baby who was still as cute as I left him, and he had never been more happy to nurse. Apparently, he gave the nanny a thirty minute screaming fest before taking the morning bottle. He took half a second to latch and start lunch with me. Bradley still loves me. Whew.
I went back to work and knocked out a bunch of tasks. One task that should've taken fifteen minutes took me just over an hour - ouch. The transition back to being detail oriented and following complicated procedure is going to be rough!
But, after eight weeks of completing the same tasks over and over and over again, it feels good to do something and know that it's done and won't have to be done again!
I'm happy to have a job and to have a baby. It really is the best of both worlds. I'm sure there will be hard days and days with tears, but thankfully, today wasn't one of them!
Let's see if the rest of the week goes as smoothly as today. Knock on wood.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Wonder week 8
Another day of bad napping, excessive clinginess and screaming.
Welcome to what recent infant research calls a Wonder Week. Which happens to coincide with the week I return to work.
Lord, help us all.
Welcome to what recent infant research calls a Wonder Week. Which happens to coincide with the week I return to work.
Lord, help us all.
Happy birthday Bryan
Happy birthday to my love.
I remember my first birthday with Bryan. It was his 24th and I remember thinking that I'd never be that old. But if I was, I'd have a beer. Hopefully by 24 (if it ever came) would bring maturity to drink something besides Smirnoff or B&J's.
I made Bryan a giant sign and went to the surprise party at Meg's place above Moe's in downtown Clemson. Many of us weren't drinking because we were underage and because it was a Wednesday. But when bryan walked in, it became a party.
Over the years, we've had crazy parties, surprise parties, relaxed dinners for the two of us and mild get togethers with friends.
This year was totally different. Bryan opened his gifts as soon as he woke up, and then played with them as I made the classic chocolate chocolate cake (in the shape of cups). We went out to dinner to a Brazilian steakhouse, perfect for Bryan whose favorite part of dinner is the meat.
Of course, our little baby who is so good at restaurants starts screaming IMMEDIATELY upon being seated. And even though I just fed him in the car, the only thing calming him is my boob. And the waitress just brought a huge glass of cab sav. Crap.
I really hate breast feeding in public. I feel self conscious and I worry that people might lose their appetite. But we were tucked in a corner, so I felt ok. And nothing was calming him. Bryan's birthday dinner was about to tank.
So I nursed through dinner, staring longingly at my wine, having my husband whose birthday it was cut my meat since I only had one hand free. Tr waiter commented on breastfeeding (I always find it awkward when men talk about breastfeeding) and how it was te best thing for baby (and then I remembered the Pregnant in Heels episode with a Brazilian lady-Brazil thinks breast milk is the only way to nourish a baby...so if there was a place to nurse in public, it's be there).
What a difference seven years makes.
I toasted to Bryan, to his eternal youth, his adventures, his awesomeness. I love that guy, and next year we are getting a sitter!
I remember my first birthday with Bryan. It was his 24th and I remember thinking that I'd never be that old. But if I was, I'd have a beer. Hopefully by 24 (if it ever came) would bring maturity to drink something besides Smirnoff or B&J's.
I made Bryan a giant sign and went to the surprise party at Meg's place above Moe's in downtown Clemson. Many of us weren't drinking because we were underage and because it was a Wednesday. But when bryan walked in, it became a party.
Over the years, we've had crazy parties, surprise parties, relaxed dinners for the two of us and mild get togethers with friends.
This year was totally different. Bryan opened his gifts as soon as he woke up, and then played with them as I made the classic chocolate chocolate cake (in the shape of cups). We went out to dinner to a Brazilian steakhouse, perfect for Bryan whose favorite part of dinner is the meat.
Of course, our little baby who is so good at restaurants starts screaming IMMEDIATELY upon being seated. And even though I just fed him in the car, the only thing calming him is my boob. And the waitress just brought a huge glass of cab sav. Crap.
I really hate breast feeding in public. I feel self conscious and I worry that people might lose their appetite. But we were tucked in a corner, so I felt ok. And nothing was calming him. Bryan's birthday dinner was about to tank.
So I nursed through dinner, staring longingly at my wine, having my husband whose birthday it was cut my meat since I only had one hand free. Tr waiter commented on breastfeeding (I always find it awkward when men talk about breastfeeding) and how it was te best thing for baby (and then I remembered the Pregnant in Heels episode with a Brazilian lady-Brazil thinks breast milk is the only way to nourish a baby...so if there was a place to nurse in public, it's be there).
What a difference seven years makes.
I toasted to Bryan, to his eternal youth, his adventures, his awesomeness. I love that guy, and next year we are getting a sitter!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Blips
I had my first person ask how old my daughter was. I punched that old lady in the face. (just kidding)
I may or may not be just now trying to do birth announcements.
I had buttered noodles for breakfast. Sue me.
Bradley is going to be The Doctor for Halloween and his brown blazer just arrived yesterday. Oh my. It's adorable. Now his outfit is complete!
And check out this chubby cutie.
I may or may not be just now trying to do birth announcements.
I had buttered noodles for breakfast. Sue me.
Bradley is going to be The Doctor for Halloween and his brown blazer just arrived yesterday. Oh my. It's adorable. Now his outfit is complete!
And check out this chubby cutie.
Madness
Life feels like its on fast forward.
Tuesday was our nanny's first full day. I wrapped Bryan's presents, went grocery shopping and did chores. It was so nice!
Yesterday we went to Tulsa. I had a massage: it was exactly what I needed. I got new shoes since my feet don't fit into my old work heels! What?!
Today has flown by. And I might even ve going to work on Monday afternoon instead of Tuesday. Cray. Cray.
I'm going crazy. Bradley had a rough night last night. And I'm trying to relish my last day home alone with the bebe.
I'm going to try to let this weekend relax me. It's Bryan's birthday and it's my last weekend before going back to work.
Next week will be nuts. Let's all hope that it goes well and there aren't any tears.
Tuesday was our nanny's first full day. I wrapped Bryan's presents, went grocery shopping and did chores. It was so nice!
Yesterday we went to Tulsa. I had a massage: it was exactly what I needed. I got new shoes since my feet don't fit into my old work heels! What?!
Today has flown by. And I might even ve going to work on Monday afternoon instead of Tuesday. Cray. Cray.
I'm going crazy. Bradley had a rough night last night. And I'm trying to relish my last day home alone with the bebe.
I'm going to try to let this weekend relax me. It's Bryan's birthday and it's my last weekend before going back to work.
Next week will be nuts. Let's all hope that it goes well and there aren't any tears.
Monday, September 17, 2012
My adult Monday
I started my day at 6am with nursing a screaming baby, pumping the most I have ever pumped and eating breakfast one handed.
We tried to give Bradley a bottle for the first time in several weeks. It was the hardest thing we've done. He screamed and screamed like Bryan was shoving a crocodile in his mouth instead of the bottle he's taken before. And if he wasnt screaming, he'd slam his mouth shut and pretend to be asleep. Bryan tried (with my encouragement) for thirty minutes with alternating screams and fake sleeping before the two guys found success and he took the whole bottle. I was so proud of both of them.
Then we went to State farm and updated our life insurance. Bradley is officially covered and a beneficiary legit.
Then we went to lunch at our favorite steakhouse. Delish. And then I dropped them off for an afternoon of sex-ifying myself. Felt great.
I came home feeling refreshed, beautiful (and the traditional beautiful not pregnancy, round beautiful) and so much like the old me. Bryan took me to dinner - at Arby's. We are so classy sometimes.
We tried to give Bradley a bottle for the first time in several weeks. It was the hardest thing we've done. He screamed and screamed like Bryan was shoving a crocodile in his mouth instead of the bottle he's taken before. And if he wasnt screaming, he'd slam his mouth shut and pretend to be asleep. Bryan tried (with my encouragement) for thirty minutes with alternating screams and fake sleeping before the two guys found success and he took the whole bottle. I was so proud of both of them.
Then we went to State farm and updated our life insurance. Bradley is officially covered and a beneficiary legit.
Then we went to lunch at our favorite steakhouse. Delish. And then I dropped them off for an afternoon of sex-ifying myself. Felt great.
I came home feeling refreshed, beautiful (and the traditional beautiful not pregnancy, round beautiful) and so much like the old me. Bryan took me to dinner - at Arby's. We are so classy sometimes.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Improv Baby
Last night was the first improv show with all the new kids. And it was incredible. I know I say they're all good, but this one blew them all out of the water. Well executed games, high energy, huge crowd, just so fun.
The bonus was that there were a handful of alumni (from the past two years) who came to support the current team. And the current team invited them to play in the second show. It was so beautiful. Or maybe that was Bryan.
Bradley was great! Huge improvement from last show. He chilled during call time, ate before the show, judged everyone when the house opened, slept for the short form and was awake for the long form. I was so proud.
We skipped the after party (clearly), and unbelievably, Bradley came home and went right to sleep after his bedtime routine even though it was nearly 11. Man, he's getting good!
He's going to grow up at rehearsals, shows and festivals, and I'm so glad he's doing well and being happy.
Bryan and I were talking last night after he went to bed about how good he's been, even when we break routine, and how Bryan wants to reward him. But how? Everything he wants, he gets. We can't give him a second boob or another crib or cuter outfits or cake. We will have to just kiss him...which he's pretty skeptical about.
The bonus was that there were a handful of alumni (from the past two years) who came to support the current team. And the current team invited them to play in the second show. It was so beautiful. Or maybe that was Bryan.
Bradley was great! Huge improvement from last show. He chilled during call time, ate before the show, judged everyone when the house opened, slept for the short form and was awake for the long form. I was so proud.
We skipped the after party (clearly), and unbelievably, Bradley came home and went right to sleep after his bedtime routine even though it was nearly 11. Man, he's getting good!
He's going to grow up at rehearsals, shows and festivals, and I'm so glad he's doing well and being happy.
Bryan and I were talking last night after he went to bed about how good he's been, even when we break routine, and how Bryan wants to reward him. But how? Everything he wants, he gets. We can't give him a second boob or another crib or cuter outfits or cake. We will have to just kiss him...which he's pretty skeptical about.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Thursday madness
Today, I trained the nanny. It was way easier than I anticipated. I pretty much worried all morning, whining to Bryan about all the things that could go wrong or I'd forget to tell her.
She came right on time and I showed her the ropes right away. She learned where things are, what he wears, how to change his diaper, how to calm him, where he likes to be pet, how to hold him, how often I like her to wash her hands, where to write down feedings and naps, where to find phone numbers, what to do in an emergency. Bryan said I was in training overdrive. But whatever, I'm paying her really well and she's watching my only kid and I'm a first time mom. I'm allowed to be crazy.
He was so good, and I think I'll be okay going back to work. Thankfully, she's going to do his afternoon nap so that he wakes up right when I get home an I can immediately have a happy, freshly changed baby. It might be nice.
Next week is crazy. We are meeting with insurance to update our life policy, I'm getting a massage, a haircut and a new outfit for the first day back. Also our nanny has her first full day with Bradley and I'll try to stay away. And next Saturday is Bryan's birthday. I can't wait!
Maybe this new work-life routine will actually be good for me. And for Bradley.
She came right on time and I showed her the ropes right away. She learned where things are, what he wears, how to change his diaper, how to calm him, where he likes to be pet, how to hold him, how often I like her to wash her hands, where to write down feedings and naps, where to find phone numbers, what to do in an emergency. Bryan said I was in training overdrive. But whatever, I'm paying her really well and she's watching my only kid and I'm a first time mom. I'm allowed to be crazy.
He was so good, and I think I'll be okay going back to work. Thankfully, she's going to do his afternoon nap so that he wakes up right when I get home an I can immediately have a happy, freshly changed baby. It might be nice.
Next week is crazy. We are meeting with insurance to update our life policy, I'm getting a massage, a haircut and a new outfit for the first day back. Also our nanny has her first full day with Bradley and I'll try to stay away. And next Saturday is Bryan's birthday. I can't wait!
Maybe this new work-life routine will actually be good for me. And for Bradley.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Wednesday brain dump
Bradley missed his afternoon nap, and we all had an awful afternoon.
And then a rough night. No sleep until 12:30am. Ouch.
Doctors appointment today. Bradley's fatness is confirmed: 80th percentile for weight, 50th for height.
Our one-size cloth diapers arrived and boy are they adorable. One of them is Albert Einstein style with physics equations on it. Shut up.
Breaking Amish is my new guilty pleasure. Young adults running from rigid, guilt-driven religious families for the "worldly pleasures" of New York City: color me intrigued.
I'm only eleven pounds away from what I was before I was pregnant. I can't wait to run, but I'm just too amused by holding Bradley to get my ass out on the pavement.
I'm planning a birthday party for Bryan, and even though it will only be us this year, it's gonna be awesome (and themed).
Tomorrow I start training the nanny. I'm torn because I'm so glad she loves Bradley, but I'm jealous of her staying home with him even though I want to go back to work. It's gonna be tough. Tomorrow is just a half day, so I can get used to it. Next week is a full day - I need to go do something out of the house but not sure what yet. I am lucky to have such a caring lady to help but I'm going to have to work through my jealousy. More to come on this.
I'm taking less pictures of Bradley lately, and I need to fix this. Maybe tomorrow I can edit pictures while the nanny takes care of the baby.
I am on the hunt for a cute Halloween costume for Bradley. Boy, it's tough wading through all the adorable options. So many to choose from'
And then a rough night. No sleep until 12:30am. Ouch.
Doctors appointment today. Bradley's fatness is confirmed: 80th percentile for weight, 50th for height.
Our one-size cloth diapers arrived and boy are they adorable. One of them is Albert Einstein style with physics equations on it. Shut up.
Breaking Amish is my new guilty pleasure. Young adults running from rigid, guilt-driven religious families for the "worldly pleasures" of New York City: color me intrigued.
I'm only eleven pounds away from what I was before I was pregnant. I can't wait to run, but I'm just too amused by holding Bradley to get my ass out on the pavement.
I'm planning a birthday party for Bryan, and even though it will only be us this year, it's gonna be awesome (and themed).
Tomorrow I start training the nanny. I'm torn because I'm so glad she loves Bradley, but I'm jealous of her staying home with him even though I want to go back to work. It's gonna be tough. Tomorrow is just a half day, so I can get used to it. Next week is a full day - I need to go do something out of the house but not sure what yet. I am lucky to have such a caring lady to help but I'm going to have to work through my jealousy. More to come on this.
I'm taking less pictures of Bradley lately, and I need to fix this. Maybe tomorrow I can edit pictures while the nanny takes care of the baby.
I am on the hunt for a cute Halloween costume for Bradley. Boy, it's tough wading through all the adorable options. So many to choose from'
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
By the numbers
1
Package of new cloth diapers delivered
2
Weeks until I return to work
3
Outfits for bradley...so far today
4
Hours until improv rehearsal: I'm giving notes for the show
5
Meals planned for the weeks
6
Dollar (x2) burger lunch with Bryan
7
Emails sent for work and personal
8
Minutes of nursing
9
Cups collected from around the house
10
Shirts from before pregnancy that fit
11
Days until Bryan's birthday - and all presents ordered!
Package of new cloth diapers delivered
2
Weeks until I return to work
3
Outfits for bradley...so far today
4
Hours until improv rehearsal: I'm giving notes for the show
5
Meals planned for the weeks
6
Dollar (x2) burger lunch with Bryan
7
Emails sent for work and personal
8
Minutes of nursing
9
Cups collected from around the house
10
Shirts from before pregnancy that fit
11
Days until Bryan's birthday - and all presents ordered!
A day in our life: one and a half months
8:00pm change Bradley into pajamas, new diaper, double swaddle. nurse Bradley in dim lighting, while Bryan continues Book 1 of lemony snicket.
8:40pm Bradley is asleep, I lay him in bed, Bryan turns on the fan and we sneak out
8:45pm we drink celebratory drinks and play a board game/watch tv/turn on music and chat
11:00pm we go to bed
12:40am Bradley starts fussing and sucking his fingers. I wake and pick him up. He nurses in his sleep, and when he stops, I unswaddle him, change his diaper, burp him and nurse him back to sleep.
1:15am I crawl back in bed and, hungry, I run to the kitchen for a cookie. Brushing off the crumb evidence, I crawl back into bed.
4:20am Bradley screams-I must have missed his initial fussing. I rescue him, and I nurse him while he's wide awake. I change his diaper and as soon as its off, he releases the crap-en. Nasty. Once we are all clean, I re-swaddle and nurse again. He's asleep and after staring at his cute face, I force myself to lay him down.
4:50am I'm tempted to shower, but I choose sleep instead.
7am Bryan's alarm goes off. He pushes snooze and cuddles.
7:20am Bradley wakes for the day. I feed him, change his diaper and put in his day outfit. As soon as I pick him up, he spits up all over me and his new outfit. I nurse him again, and even though he's awake, I lay him in his crib.
7:40am I start pumping and Bryan rescues the bebe and cuddles before work.
8am Bryan leaves for work. I put the parts in the sink, remove my spit up shirt and as I'm searching for a new one, Bradley screams. He's got a pouty face, so I just grab him and hang out in my bra.
8:30am Bradley falls asleep on me, I make a bowl of cereal and a glass if water one handed. I hold my adorable sleeping baby while I check email and watch last nights tv. He loves his morning nap on me.
9:30am Bebe wakes, and I nurse him. I realize he's still in his spit up outfit. O change his diaper and his outfit. He's awake, so I tell him juicy gossip and sing made up songs and walk him around the house showing him pictures and walls and shoes and dishes needing to be washed.
11:45am Bradley nurses again and falls asleep. I realize I have only had one glass of water and pour another while chastising myself for not hydrating.
12:15pm Bradley wakes (because his farts are loud enough to wake anybody) and I change his diaper. He wants to nurse again, and I let him but this is when I think I should put on a shirt. Probably should.
12:30pm Bryan comes home for lunch. He brings home subway or we go out for lunch (if it's Tuesday) or we make something simple at home. Bradley takes a 45-60 minute nap.
1:30pm Bradley wakes, Bryan changes his diaper and plays with Bradley while I shower. Finally. I put on a shirt. Finally.
2:00pm Bryan goes back to the office. I take the opportunity to run an errand or hang out at home.
2:30pm Bradley nurses and falls asleep for his afternoon nap.this nap happens on me, in his bouncer, in the moby, in the carseat. He naps forever! It's wonderful!
5:00pm Bryan comes home (or we pick him up). We decide about dinner. We start prepping veggies.
5:35pm Bradley wakes up, and Bryan changes him. Of course, he pees everywhere (90% chance) and I continue cooking. Bryan brings him back in a new outfit.
5:45pm I nurse Bradley while Bryan finishes dinner. Bradley goes in the bouncer while we eat (if it's a good day). He screams after 15 minutes, so whoever is closest to being done picks him up. The other finishes. Switch.
We hang out/Skype grandparents/do a bath/watch cartoons.
6:35pm Bradley nurses.
7:15pm nurse again. Change his diaper. Swaddle and cuddle.
8:00pm nurse again. Bryan reads stories until Bradley falls asleep. We lay him down. High fives.
8:40pm Bradley is asleep, I lay him in bed, Bryan turns on the fan and we sneak out
8:45pm we drink celebratory drinks and play a board game/watch tv/turn on music and chat
11:00pm we go to bed
12:40am Bradley starts fussing and sucking his fingers. I wake and pick him up. He nurses in his sleep, and when he stops, I unswaddle him, change his diaper, burp him and nurse him back to sleep.
1:15am I crawl back in bed and, hungry, I run to the kitchen for a cookie. Brushing off the crumb evidence, I crawl back into bed.
4:20am Bradley screams-I must have missed his initial fussing. I rescue him, and I nurse him while he's wide awake. I change his diaper and as soon as its off, he releases the crap-en. Nasty. Once we are all clean, I re-swaddle and nurse again. He's asleep and after staring at his cute face, I force myself to lay him down.
4:50am I'm tempted to shower, but I choose sleep instead.
7am Bryan's alarm goes off. He pushes snooze and cuddles.
7:20am Bradley wakes for the day. I feed him, change his diaper and put in his day outfit. As soon as I pick him up, he spits up all over me and his new outfit. I nurse him again, and even though he's awake, I lay him in his crib.
7:40am I start pumping and Bryan rescues the bebe and cuddles before work.
8am Bryan leaves for work. I put the parts in the sink, remove my spit up shirt and as I'm searching for a new one, Bradley screams. He's got a pouty face, so I just grab him and hang out in my bra.
8:30am Bradley falls asleep on me, I make a bowl of cereal and a glass if water one handed. I hold my adorable sleeping baby while I check email and watch last nights tv. He loves his morning nap on me.
9:30am Bebe wakes, and I nurse him. I realize he's still in his spit up outfit. O change his diaper and his outfit. He's awake, so I tell him juicy gossip and sing made up songs and walk him around the house showing him pictures and walls and shoes and dishes needing to be washed.
11:45am Bradley nurses again and falls asleep. I realize I have only had one glass of water and pour another while chastising myself for not hydrating.
12:15pm Bradley wakes (because his farts are loud enough to wake anybody) and I change his diaper. He wants to nurse again, and I let him but this is when I think I should put on a shirt. Probably should.
12:30pm Bryan comes home for lunch. He brings home subway or we go out for lunch (if it's Tuesday) or we make something simple at home. Bradley takes a 45-60 minute nap.
1:30pm Bradley wakes, Bryan changes his diaper and plays with Bradley while I shower. Finally. I put on a shirt. Finally.
2:00pm Bryan goes back to the office. I take the opportunity to run an errand or hang out at home.
2:30pm Bradley nurses and falls asleep for his afternoon nap.this nap happens on me, in his bouncer, in the moby, in the carseat. He naps forever! It's wonderful!
5:00pm Bryan comes home (or we pick him up). We decide about dinner. We start prepping veggies.
5:35pm Bradley wakes up, and Bryan changes him. Of course, he pees everywhere (90% chance) and I continue cooking. Bryan brings him back in a new outfit.
5:45pm I nurse Bradley while Bryan finishes dinner. Bradley goes in the bouncer while we eat (if it's a good day). He screams after 15 minutes, so whoever is closest to being done picks him up. The other finishes. Switch.
We hang out/Skype grandparents/do a bath/watch cartoons.
6:35pm Bradley nurses.
7:15pm nurse again. Change his diaper. Swaddle and cuddle.
8:00pm nurse again. Bryan reads stories until Bradley falls asleep. We lay him down. High fives.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Oh happy mom
Bradley has done two nights with a four hour stretch from 1-5 and 2-6. It was so wonderful.
I'm back in non maternity clothes. None of my pants fit, but I'll survive with dresses and maternity pants. And look longingly at my skinny jeans. If I have to look longer than Halloween, we are buying the next size up.
I go back to work in two weeks. I'm nervous, and I'm not sure how I'll feel. I'm most nervous about breastfeeding. Will I be able to pump at work? Can I keep up with what he eats while I'm gone?
Bryan got a new board game. It's tricky and full of tiny pieces. Naturally. It's been nice to play games, flirt and drink alcohol during our 8pm-11pm adult time.
Dudes been so fussy today. Only wants to be held and constantly wants to nurse. It's sweet but frustrating.
I'm back in non maternity clothes. None of my pants fit, but I'll survive with dresses and maternity pants. And look longingly at my skinny jeans. If I have to look longer than Halloween, we are buying the next size up.
I go back to work in two weeks. I'm nervous, and I'm not sure how I'll feel. I'm most nervous about breastfeeding. Will I be able to pump at work? Can I keep up with what he eats while I'm gone?
Bryan got a new board game. It's tricky and full of tiny pieces. Naturally. It's been nice to play games, flirt and drink alcohol during our 8pm-11pm adult time.
Dudes been so fussy today. Only wants to be held and constantly wants to nurse. It's sweet but frustrating.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Success?
For one week exactly, Bradley has gone to bed at 8, stayed asleep (no crying) until 11, then sleeps until 3, then 6. And then it's cuddle time.
How? It could be the white noise: we added a fan. It could be the swaddle: we did a double swaddle with arms in. It could be the books before bed: we started the lemony snicket series. It could be the cluster feeding: starting at 5, we feed every hour.
I don't know and don't care. We are enjoying how easily he goes down and how patterned his schedule is. And maybe, we will lose the 3am wake.
Bryan is an awesome dad, and while I hate to share Bradley, I love seeing him hold the little guy. They're so cute together.
But I feel like Bryan and I are finally back to a normal relationship with lots of laughs, delicious dinners, marathon DVD watching and random hugs.
Is life getting better? Yes. Six weeks really is the new chapter.
How? It could be the white noise: we added a fan. It could be the swaddle: we did a double swaddle with arms in. It could be the books before bed: we started the lemony snicket series. It could be the cluster feeding: starting at 5, we feed every hour.
I don't know and don't care. We are enjoying how easily he goes down and how patterned his schedule is. And maybe, we will lose the 3am wake.
Bryan is an awesome dad, and while I hate to share Bradley, I love seeing him hold the little guy. They're so cute together.
But I feel like Bryan and I are finally back to a normal relationship with lots of laughs, delicious dinners, marathon DVD watching and random hugs.
Is life getting better? Yes. Six weeks really is the new chapter.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Six weeks (almost)
Seeing my midwife is both frustrating and fun. Frustrating because it's always a two hour affair mostly spent waiting for a two minute consultation by a crazy haired lady.
Fun because all the nurses have low expectations of their patients and praise me for wearing a dress ("You look so beautiful!"), praise me for breastfeeding ("Wow! You are still breastfeeding!") and praise how adorable my fat, mohawked baby is ("Hes so chunky!").
Thankfully, I'm almost done. One more last checkup before I return to work. Then I can go back to annual exams with my doctor who is prompt.
I've really enjoyed my time at home but I'm itching to be back at work. To get phone calls needing information not calls about Bradley. I'm ready for meetings, for supervising my staff, for files, for staplers, for memos, for my office with a view, for my big chair, for my blazers, for contracts, for students, for vending machine snacks. I called the office today to schedule my return. Thankfully, I've been a part of work my whole leave, directing my staff, answering emails and responding to my boss - so I know everything that's been happening.
I'm debating my recruitment trip in October to China. Do I go? Do I send a student on my behalf? Do I join her and let her do the bulk of the fair? Do I sit it out? I'm going to Vancouver in October, too, and that I'm not missing!
My job is my dream job: responsibility, students, travel and independence. And I'm ready to get back in the game.
I have really enjoyed my time at home, watching Bradley grow and be adorable. I would never trade these days for anything. I know I've built a sweet bond with my son that will withstand my working hours. I really love spending time with him, and I'll have decades more to spend with him.
It's just that he's got a working mom. And I think it will make me a better mom. Of course, we will have to see how I feel after I return. But let's all hope for the best.
Fun because all the nurses have low expectations of their patients and praise me for wearing a dress ("You look so beautiful!"), praise me for breastfeeding ("Wow! You are still breastfeeding!") and praise how adorable my fat, mohawked baby is ("Hes so chunky!").
Thankfully, I'm almost done. One more last checkup before I return to work. Then I can go back to annual exams with my doctor who is prompt.
I've really enjoyed my time at home but I'm itching to be back at work. To get phone calls needing information not calls about Bradley. I'm ready for meetings, for supervising my staff, for files, for staplers, for memos, for my office with a view, for my big chair, for my blazers, for contracts, for students, for vending machine snacks. I called the office today to schedule my return. Thankfully, I've been a part of work my whole leave, directing my staff, answering emails and responding to my boss - so I know everything that's been happening.
I'm debating my recruitment trip in October to China. Do I go? Do I send a student on my behalf? Do I join her and let her do the bulk of the fair? Do I sit it out? I'm going to Vancouver in October, too, and that I'm not missing!
My job is my dream job: responsibility, students, travel and independence. And I'm ready to get back in the game.
I have really enjoyed my time at home, watching Bradley grow and be adorable. I would never trade these days for anything. I know I've built a sweet bond with my son that will withstand my working hours. I really love spending time with him, and I'll have decades more to spend with him.
It's just that he's got a working mom. And I think it will make me a better mom. Of course, we will have to see how I feel after I return. But let's all hope for the best.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Tahlequah's funniest?
Apparently our duo won an award for live arts in 2010, but we never knew.
Some lady running a state camp contacted me on Facebook to ask Red Letters to perform at her camp. Interested, I just called her.
She wants us to do a show for 200-250 women ranging from 14-75 for a women's boy scouts thing (her words).
It is too interesting to pass up, so we accepted. What the heck is this gonna be like?
Bradley is gonna have to come. But it's all part of him learning comedy by growing up around it and I'm comedy theatres. I can't wait for him to start talking and jumping in some scenes.
Some lady running a state camp contacted me on Facebook to ask Red Letters to perform at her camp. Interested, I just called her.
She wants us to do a show for 200-250 women ranging from 14-75 for a women's boy scouts thing (her words).
It is too interesting to pass up, so we accepted. What the heck is this gonna be like?
Bradley is gonna have to come. But it's all part of him learning comedy by growing up around it and I'm comedy theatres. I can't wait for him to start talking and jumping in some scenes.
This crazy life
It probably is super boring to read about Bradley but the only writing I've been doing is this blog. I had a notebook to write all my thoughts on my baby and motherhood. It's empty. And I know it because I haven't seen it since I bought it.
All I write is texts, emails, blog posts o my phone and grocery lists. My free time is not for writing apparently.
Bradley is getting cuter and sooooooo fat. His most common emotions are: apathy, judgmental, skepticism and slightly happy. He is a really mellow reserved kid. And it's pretty funny for two silly people to have such a serious baby.
We are on our own...forever! Well we don't have any visitors planned. And while I loved having them, I am so happy to get some time for us to find our groove.
Everyone keeps asking how being a mother feels. And I don't feel that different mentally. I feel like me. Truly. I just have a baby. And he stops crying when I hold him. He loves sleeping on me. He gets his nutrition (and all those fat rolls) from me. But, I still feel more like me than I did when pregnant. I'm still Alyssa. My new hobby is just Bradley.
He's adorable. And so fat. Hes the fattest. And I'm obsessed with taking pictures. Clearly.
All I write is texts, emails, blog posts o my phone and grocery lists. My free time is not for writing apparently.
Bradley is getting cuter and sooooooo fat. His most common emotions are: apathy, judgmental, skepticism and slightly happy. He is a really mellow reserved kid. And it's pretty funny for two silly people to have such a serious baby.
We are on our own...forever! Well we don't have any visitors planned. And while I loved having them, I am so happy to get some time for us to find our groove.
Everyone keeps asking how being a mother feels. And I don't feel that different mentally. I feel like me. Truly. I just have a baby. And he stops crying when I hold him. He loves sleeping on me. He gets his nutrition (and all those fat rolls) from me. But, I still feel more like me than I did when pregnant. I'm still Alyssa. My new hobby is just Bradley.
He's adorable. And so fat. Hes the fattest. And I'm obsessed with taking pictures. Clearly.
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