The Distance Dilemma

With a family vacation including a family reunion on the cusp of my plans, it has me thinking a lot about how close is too close and how far is too far.

Growing up I didn't live close to cousins. Not that it made much of a difference, my eldest cousin is 10 years younger than me.

My grandmother and grandfather did live close for awhile. My grandmother lived just a city away from us in Georgia, I remember visiting her place, and her being there for my first day of Kindergarten, sometimes she'd pick me up from school. I imagine that must have been nice for my mom. But she and my grandfather moved West when I was still in elementary school.

My husband had the opposite experience. Most of his live he lived in the same county as most of his cousins. They all grew up together and had family get-togethers often.

When I first met his extended family--Exactly five years ago, it was quite overwhelming. It seemed like millions of screaming kids were running swarming all over the place. He didn't even know all of their names. I thought I'd never memorize his eight aunt and uncle's names... But after about a year I had their names, and their spouses names down.

I was never really turned on to the idea of living that close to so much family. Siblings and parents--Sure. But being an earshot away from a millions cousins? I wasn't so sure. After living near that for a few years, and now being away from that while thinking of having kids I'm getting a little sad thinking that our kids won't be near any of their grandparents.

Will my kids not get the same spoiling our siblings will because we live further away? Who will we trust to babysit our child? Will being too close be smothering? Will the benefits actually outweigh the downsides to the location?

I wouldn't want to put the burden of watching our kids on anyone who doesn't want to... But I imagine family wouldn't mind as much as others. Especially not grandparents.

I do believe there is such a thing as "too close." But that hasn't ever been a problem I worry too much about. Living a few hours away is nice because you're close enough for weekend trips, but gar enough away to avoid the "drop in."

I often find myself wondering if it's worth it to move closer to family to get those benefits, or if we'll make our own close friends--Like family, wherever we are, and have the same bond. Besides... I wasn't close to my family most of my life, and I made it just fine.

What do you think? Do you live close to family? Why or why not?

***

PS: Amidst my family reunion plans, I'll be taking a tiny break from my personal blog updates. I'll still be around, and perhaps have time for an update or two, but I'm planning something a little different and fun for all of you.

The week of a 6th I'll have a giveaway a day. I'm still working out the details but right now I have more than 20 sponsors. I'm hoping to get about 25, so if you know of someone who has a small business or makes things they'd like to have promoted here, have them holla at me at babymakingmachine{at}gmail.com.

The June Mommy Moment Winner

Wow, we got a great slew of entries in the June Mommy Moment Contest! A big thanks to Kari from Alas 3 Lads for being my guest judge this month!!

She wanted me to let everyone know that it was so difficult to choose just one favorite; they were all really great. She smiled, laughed, identified with, and even shed a tear while reading them. She says she enjoyed reading your posts and appreciated what you shared.

And without further adieu, the winner is:

J with Baby Sleep

And she wins a beautiful necklace from HaberHeartWork's Etsy Shop, and I'll be getting her feature up this week so we can learn a little more about her and her blog. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story about your little baby!

I read and loved each and every post as well, I'm SO glad I didn't have to choose because I loved them all! I suggest you also check out these honorable mentions, cause they will make you laugh and cry for sure!:

Homegirl with My Cleaver Boy : He's too smart for his own good... Or for Mommy's good!
Natalie with How Do I Look as a Mom? : Good! Now join the club already--No, you first!
OMG Pregnant with It's a Girl : The amazing story from a DAD's perspective, finding out he's having a daughter.
Heather with For Poop's Sake : We've all heard about them.. Many have witnessed them firsthand... The BLOWOUT!
Mama Notes with My Little Man : The beautiful birth story of her little boy
Emmy with If I Was Only So Free : A beautiful scene of a mother watching her little girl dance.
Kiki with Bathroom Dancing : The wonderful tale of finding out she's going to be a mommy.. I can't wait to be there.
Jenna with How to Defeat a Cockroach : They're terrifying, and we'd even consider using our offspring to help us defeat them.
Amy with Dear Dignity : What dignity? Where did it go? ...Sometimes the baby can take it.
Mama Notes with Husky What? : Oh no you didn't call her baby that!

I hope you'll take the time to read these great posts!

I also wanted to share my "Mommy Moment" this month... And no, it wasn't with my dog.

I was babysitting J, the little boy I watch twice a week, and was feeding him some of his baby food. Every time I'd give him another scoop I'd make the "Mmmm" sound and he'd kind of look at me like I was crazy.

Well, after like the 20th bite and right after I made my yummy noise, he goes "Mmmmm." I had to yell to hubby and tell him how proud I was that I taught him something! Oooh I can't wait to be a mommy!! Just WAIT 'till you see what I teach 'em!

The Best of Both Worlds--My Quest to Find it

I'm not sure what's gotten into me. I've gone from the young, ambitious woman, ready to climb to the top of the journalism world--Maybe have a couple of kids at some point. To definitely having kids, still being a reporter powerhouse. To wanting my first kid sooner than I thought--I'll squeeze it into my career plans. To having a kid and adorable family is my first priority and hoping my fantastic career will fall into place.

I thought I was always ambitious and career minded, but looking at journal entries from years past makes me remember otherwise. I've always had big goals for my career, and had a very supportive husband, but been very open to him providing if that's what we wanted.

I never use to envy women who stayed at home with their children all day. I always wanted to have a career where I could still develop my skills and be a successful woman while still being a mom. And it wasn't until very recently I became jealous of those women who could be at home.

Last week I was browsing through some friend's blogs, catching up on their lives and looking through pictures. I stopped at one blog of a girlfriend I use to work with in college. She's pregnant with #2 and is a stay at home mother. It wasn't what she wrote on her blog that struck the sensitive nerve inside me, but a picture she had with about 20 other women, all stay at home wives/mothers, and their husbands were all in graduate school.

"That must be nice" was the first thought that came to mind. I found myself wishing I had a big group of girlfriends with playmates for my young children. That I could get together during the day and talk and bake and play while my husband worked outside the home--Or not even worked, just went to school. My main responsibility--though a huge one--Raising our children.

I envied the fact that they may not plan to--Or have to, work a day in their child's young life, and they can afford to do that. --Knowing that probably won't be the case for me.

My emotions boiled over, the tears came, and I couldn't help but express my frustration to my husband--The jealousy I felt for all of the women I knew who were brave enough to live off their husband's income (or even lack thereof), and not have to work. That simple picture brought a million questions to the front of my mind. Why was I so ambitious? Why do I want to work? Why did I move us across the country for a career I may be doubting myself in a few years from now?

He reassured me things aren't always what they seem. That that makes me unique, and that there may be women out there who wished they were in my shoes.

To be honest it's hard to believe someone who has the "best/hardest" job in the world would want to switch places with someone who has a "difficult/not necessarily the best" job.

But I'm trying to keep my chin up. If there's anything I know about our relationship it's that everything has happened for a reason, and I'm sure things will continue to unfold that way. I just pray that one day--I can have the best of both worlds.

The Twilight Theory

I fell in love with Twilight after my sister-in-law introduced me to the book not long after New Moon was released. Two years, two midnight release book parties, and one movie watched multiple times later I'm still in love with the series, and pretty much one of the addicts.

Pondering over my life, and how I've been approaching becoming a parent made me think about some similarities. Let me put a little disclaimer in here: If you haven't read the entire series... As in not completed Breaking Dawn, you may not want to read any further as my analysis contains some spoilers. Skip to the bottom and enter the giveaway! Bookmark and come back to read the rest when you're done reading!

So, if you're a Twilight fanatic like myself and read Breaking Dawn you may also remember how interesting it was that Bella didn't go after and eat those humans, or her dad. The Cullens guessed that perhaps it's because she had known it would be hard going into it, so she was more prepared for the challenges.

Thinking about this made me wonder if my situation questioning and learning about conception, pregnancy, labor and motherhood will be similar. I am sure I know more about conception than the average Jane. I have friends who are TTC and don't anything about cervical mucus, basal body temperature, or ovulation. It's not that I want to... It's just that I like learning about it.

I've learned conception may not happen as quickly or as easy as I'd like it to, and I think because of what I've learned I'm somewhat prepared for the worst.--Down to knowing what kind of coverage my insurance offers for fertility treatments.

I know pregnancy and labor isn't easy for everyone--But I also know how hard it is for some to achieve I'll be grateful for every minute.

I know not to expect your delivery to go exactly as you plan, because chances are, your plans will change. I've learned epidurals aren't always what they're chalked up to be. --And natural labor may not be that bad.

I've learned parenting isn't always pretty. But I've learned even with the lack of sleep, lack of free time, loosing your privacy (and sometimes dignity) ...it's all worth it to have a child who loves and adores you.

So... Knowing all this, I wonder if it will give me a leg up--An advantage. Sure, I don't know everything, and there will always be surprises, no matter how much research and preparation I do. But I wonder if even knowing that will make challenges easier for me. Maybe I'll be like Bella.

What do you think?

Ok, so for those of you who are twilight fans like myself, I have a treat for you!

Giggles and Gins Bowtique is giving one of my readers a Twilight-inspired scrabble tile necklace of their choice! So go over there, and pick out your favorite then let me know in the comments which one you like. I have pictured a couple of my favorites but there are SO many to choose from!

Here's a description:
All pendants have been hand made by designer. Pendants have a graphic attached that has been sealed with a water resistant resin which gives it a glass like appearance. I use a 2 part epoxy resin that gives these tiles a nice clear, glossy, glass hard finish. Each pendant has a silver plated bail and will come with an 18 inch ball chain necklace which can be made smaller if needed.
Pendants are water resistant but are not recommended for swimming or bathing.
Some pendants have been embellished with a Swarovski crystal

You get an extra entry by letting me know:
-You follow my blog
-You have my blog button (two entries)
-You subscribe to my blog
-You favor my blog on Technorati
-You Tweet/ Facebook about this contest
-You post about this contest (now two entries)
-Vote for my blog in the 2009 Bloggers Choice Awards (worth 3 entries!)

Please leave a comment for each extra entry!

Contest ends Tuesday July 7th at midnight! Random.org will choose the winning number. Good luck!

The Parent Days

I guess I should have written something all nice for Father's Day and Mother's Day... Perhaps a tribute to my parents or Hubby's parents. I love them--They know I do. Instead I had fun reading everyone else's tributes to their husbands and wives.

I wasn't planning on writing anything tonight, but then I was thinking--What if this is our LAST Father's Day as non-parents?! Some things couldn't go unsaid.

I felt a twinge of jealousy at times--When we were out around proud parents, enjoying their special day. But I pulled through it--Smiling knowing my time's not far behind (I hope).

I did feel a little guilty accepting the flower at church, given to all of the women for Mother's Day... But not so bad about eating my husband's cookies he got for Father's Day. Cause those were yummy!

Hubs tells me every year on this day he use to watch the US Open with his dad. This year he watched it with Snoop.

I almost got him a card, from me and Snoop but I couldn't find the right one and opted against it.

Looking at all of the parents at my church made me think about how the meaning for the day must be so different for them. Sometimes I envy them, but right now I'm happy to be enjoying where I'm at.

We haven't been trying to become parents our entire marriage, and now that we're thinking about it--Planning to try to take the next step, my perception is changing once again.

...Maybe next year we'll be "real" parents (see big (to me) announcement post below). But for now... We'll take Snoop. He IS our child for-now after all.

Baby 2010... That's the goal.

But for now, I'm very grateful to have my dads... The one who raised me and another who's taken me as his own child through marrying his son. And grateful for the one Father we all have in common.--My dear Father in Heaven.

The Big Goal

I feel like I have so much to say and I haven't said it for fear of changing my mind, not sure if it was going to pull through, and other reasons, but I've decided to just LET IT ALL OUT today!

First off, I want to add a disclaimer to those who know me in real life (99% of you can probably skip down two paragraphs). "What happens on Baby Makin' Machine, STAYS on Baby Makin' Machine." And I'm not just talking about copyright issues or plagiarism. No, as far as I know I haven not fallen victim to this. I'm talking about what I'm saying here. Yes, I know it's a public blog and anyone who wants to read can read it, but I'd like to keep it at that.

Got a question? Ask me in the comments section, or in an email, I'd be more than happy to write a post answering it. I write about these things because it is easier to write about than talk about.

I wanted to get all of that out of the way before I said this. After six months of having this blog, going back and forth on when to try to have a baby. Debating whether or not I'm willing to sacrifice sleep. Getting off of hormonal birth control:...

I'VE SET A DATE!

See that switch at the top? Well my mental picture of my baby makin' machine switch looks a little like that and I've set a date to switch it on. I wasn't planning on blogging about it because I always thought when I turned my baby makin' machine "on" I'd want to keep it secret so everyone is surprised when they find out I'm with-spawn. Well, after much contemplation I've decided I will write about it, because it not only is a part of my journey but a HUGE part. And I think so many women are going through the same thing and hopefully what I go through, and what I learn can be helpful to them--AND women who have been through what I'm going through can share their tips--Yay!!

As for the date--Well, I said it first yesterday on Conceive Online. Oh yea, did I mention I'm the magazine's newest blogger? Check it out. If I'm not open enough here... You'll get all of the dirty details there. And join the "My Conceive" community and show your support for me there! The website was EXACTLY in my ballpark. I've never seen a more helpful site/magazine for where I am right now. It's ALL inclusive helpful information on before AND during TTC. The blog's name (which hubby helped me choose) is "Ready or Not."

But like I've said... The date... August or September. That's when I'm planning turning my baby makin' machine "on". I have been known to change my mind before--In fact, I didn't even blog about my last two goals... May and June. I sorta chickened out. Plus, there are a few things I'm trying to get done first.--For one, I'm going to the dentist again to get my cavities filled. I'm doing that in a few weeks. But this time, hubby and I are both working for this goal and feeling good about it. So I'm hopeful and planning on pulling through this time. I'll have been off hormonal birth control and taking prenatals or five months, and I've already for hubby hooked up with vitamins... Someone told me Zinc is somethin' a guy's gotta have so I went out and bought him some vitamins the next day. I'm hoping once I kick the machine into action it works, and that it isn't broken, but I'm taking steps to help with that too.

If you read this post last week, you'll know I've been a little nervous about being able to produce a baby. I mean... I haven't gotten pregnant on birth control and it seems like so many of my friends HAVE! I've also talked about my fear of turning into a Sex Natzi. Now that I know the rules to making a baby, and what helps, I plan to follow them to the best of my abilities to make a baby FAST.

In consequence to that, I know that can cause added stress and can cancel some of my progress. SO... I've decided to do something that will help lower stress, help with fertility AND cross something off my Baby Bucket List all at the same time... I'm going to try FERTILITY YOGA!

Cool, no? I have tried meditation once before, but never anything like this. I've been in touch with the wonderful women of Pulling Down the Moon, and (hopefully next month) I'll be starting a fertility yoga class here in Austin, and learn exercises I can do to help stimulate fertility, while lower my stress-level in the process.

I started reading Fully Fertile. Their book. It's a 12-week process to achieve optimum fertility. I'm suppose to read the entire book before starting the process, and I'm hoping to just be completing the process the same time I switch my machine "on."

I just finished reading the first section about breathing and yoga positions. I am DYING to get to it! I also read some good tips about good exercise and what's "too much." And another good cleansing tip I learned that I am SO starting ASAP is to drink a thermos-full of warm water and lemon daily. I don't normally like water with lemon but I think it'll be a fun experiment knowing it could help a little with getting ready for baby makin'! I'm also hoping to learn a lot more about good nutrition, healthy living, and things like that while reading this book.--I'll keep you updated on it!

I know a lot of people would see something like this and think that it's for people dealing with infertility.. And I thought that at first too, but then I realized that something like this is perfect for someone who is trying to get ready to have a baby. I know for some people it's just easy to do the freaky-deek and get pregnant, but for other's it takes work. I also know a lot of women who are going through "baby fever" and aren't sure what to do with themselves while they wait to finish school, or for their husbands to come around, or to accomplish a certain goal... I think stuff like this is great to do while you're passing the time.

I've said before that I don't think I'll have the "in-between" stage of "not trying, not preventing." In my eyes I either want to have a child, or I don't. And when I'm not preventing anymore I'm going to be trying to get pregnant.

I don't want to set myself up for disappointment, but I'm going to do some experiments the next few months. I'm going to try to do everything I can so I can get it right the first time. Worth a try right? We'll see! I will try my best NOT to be disappointed though if it doesn't happen right away--I can't control EVERYTHING. So I'm going to try not to stress in my planning, but have FUN in my planning. Make sense?

I'm going to be blogging about fertility yoga, and a lot more things I'm trying, reading, and experimenting with. I'm surprised by seeing the results of my poll, and seeing that so many future mama's like myself are reading my blog! It's nice to know I'm not in this boat alone... And I have lots of great stuff for future mamas and other women looking to make additional babies. I'm so excited for this commitment I'm making and the turn this blog is taking.

Hopefully this will not only continue my detailed diary, but also be helpful for others. So stay tuned for updates! And let the countdown begin!

Any advice?

***

To my real-life friends: If you read my blog--Thank you! But if you're a member of my family or a co-worker, I'd appreciate if my writings stayed with you and didn't become family/newsroom gossip. I only say this because I think sometimes things can get misconstrued, and all of a sudden, just because I want a baby one day, or have a dream about my child the next, I'm all of a sudden the "kid obsessed" person, or being asked if we're "trying to make a baby" in places I'd probably prefer not to talk about it. Sure, I'm an open person, and I'd be more than happy to talk with you about it in private.--I like to keep this blog (and my blog Twitter account) as my ONLY "public" forum. Thanks!

The Staring Babies

It's like they're plotting against me. They're cute, oh yea, adorably cute... But their always staring at me!

I check my reflection.. Maybe there's something on my face--Wait, they wouldn't know the difference!

I've noticed this since I was a teenager. I'll pass a baby by at church or at a store, and they're always watching... Their eyes are saying "Hey lady, pay attention... I've got somethin' to tell ya!" But they never tell me what it is.

At church sometimes it's like they're yelling to get my attention.

I told my husband when we got married that all babies like me. That's how it seems... No joke. Maybe that's why I was so good at handling a class of infants at 17. Or a quite obedient class of six one-year-olds. Or worse... 20 two-year-olds with only the help of a lone assistant. I've changed more diapers in my short life than plenty of new moms (20 diapers every 2 hours adds up). But most of the time I've felt a natural connection to these wide-eyed wonders.

And it's not just the tiny ones, it feels the same way with young kids. I'm not sure what it is, but I just love the cute admirable look they sometimes give me. It'll often give me chills and it always makes me smile.

I can only imagine how those sweet looks will make me feel when it's my own little "mini us" smiling back at me.

The Eye's on the Prize

I've been so busy, and mentally my mind is racing a million miles a minute. Some days I wonder how in the world I have time to blog--Ever! But I love it so much I just have to write something!

I was reading one of my journals the other day--One I kept right before and once I met my husband. It was funny reading what I thought about him when we first met. One thing I read that I thought was funny was how we were talking about "starting a family." We were contemplating it not long after we got married. I was ok with the idea, but I still wanted to "finish school, start my career, go 4-wheeling, jet skiing, and visit another country." I've done all of those things in the past year.

Next Tuesday we'll have officially been married for four and a half years! It's so crazy how time flies. Sometimes I still feel like a newlywed. One thing I've been thinking is I'm really going to kick up the notch with this Baby Bucket List of mine. I'm getting so much closer to turning my Baby Makin' Machine on, I can taste it! I've got a sorta-deadline in mind to try to make a baby, and completed list or not--I'm getting busy!

Pertaining to the list and deadline--I have fun news and exciting things in store soon, and I can't wait to put it all out here to share!

In other news, for the next little bit I've decided to spruce up some blog stuff around here. I know more of yall don't visit my blog for the giveaways cause... Well, I don't do many for one, and two... Frankly I think most of you like to help me out, give me advice and share your experiences rather than win a prize... Which is one reason I heart you!

One thing I want to do to show my gratitude I'm going to not only offer a feature the winner of the Mommy Moment contest, I'll also give a prize to the winner! Yep! Right now I'm into necklaces so the July winner will win a necklace from Haber HeartWork's Etsy Shop. I picked out this necklace for the winner:

It's a scrabble tile measures approximately .75" square. It's sealed with an acid-free, non-toxic, clear gloss sealant for a brilliant shine. It's handmade by the designer. The pendant includes free 18" Nickel plated steel 2.4mm ball chain and connector-made in USA. And it arrives in cotton lined small gift box with heartwork sticker.

Not a mom, or want a different necklace? Pick out your favorite from her shop instead.

So, want a feature on my blog as well as a an adorable button and beautiful necklace? Enter my Mommy Moment contest. Let me know your favorite "mommy moment" post this month!-- You don't have to be a mom to have a "momish moment." Don't have a mommy moment this month? Share with me a past post about your/a labor story instead. All of the entries will be featured on my site with links to the entry posts.

Leave me the link in the comments section of this post, or my first announcement post or email me at babymakingmachine(at)gmail.com. I have entries coming in already, so let me know yours! My guest judge, Kari from Alas 3 Lads will be reviewing the posts and choosing a favorite after June 25th. So get them to me before then!

FYI: Pendant is WELL SEALED but is NOT waterproof Small parts-not intended for young/small children.

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And I almost forgot! Thanks to RANDOM.ORG the winner of my 6-month blogiversary contest where I gave away the necklace from CarrieAnneJone's Etsy Shop is commneter #28 Kathi! Who liked the same necklace I did! Congrats! And email me your info so I can get your prize shipped to you!

The Labor Fascination

I was 11 when I was in the delivery room while my little sister was born. Oh yea, I watched it all... Come to think of it, I'm not sure why my mom did that to us. I mean, I think birth is a beautiful thing, but I'm pretty sure I didn't know babies came out that way.--Actually while I'm writing this, I'm remembering a demonstration my dad did with my little toy cat called Kitty Surprise! It was a stuffed cat that had three kittens inside. You'd get the kittens out through the Velcro at the stomach-area. My dad took the toy, told me they didn't come out that way, and proceed to demonstrate them coming out of what looked like the butt-area.... I didn't believe him. A few years later that theory was confirmed at my sister's birth.

Since then, I think, I've always had a fascination with births and from "I didn't know I was pregnant" to "A Baby Story" to "Bringing Home Baby" I'm there. Even Especially for all that bloody gory stuff!

I know it's strange, but I tell people all the time if I wasn't a journalist I'd be an OBGYN. Yea... I'd deliver babies! ...Too bad I'm not smart and I hate math. Other than that I think I'd love it! For some people the thought of labor scares them more than any other part of having kids. To me, that's probably the best part. I think the whole pregnancy, baby, mother-baby bond is just fascinating!

To be honest, I didn't really even consider home birth or anything of that sort until I started this blog and began meeting other women who have experienced that. Now the only big thing that turns me off to that idea is the pain--No biggie right? I hate pain. And to be honest I'm not sure I could handle not getting an epidural.

I talked to my mom about it, she delivered me naturally without medication, but with the rest of my siblings she got the epidural--And recommended I don't mess around and just do the same thing.

Going with this... I decided to watch The Business of Being Born. Everyone kept telling me how good of a documentary it is so I decided to give it a whirl last night. Once I got over the initial shock of seeing screaming naked women (cause usually on TLC they've got it all blurred out) it was quite fascinating as well.

Although it seemed a bit biased to me, it did turn me on a little more to the idea of something like a birth center--Maybe. I always thought since I have good insurance, why go to something like that? But then I noticed some of the women in the movie had OB's they went to at the hospital that were kind of their "back up." That made me feel more interested in different options because it's like having two doctors. But just as quickly as that thought came to my mind, a woman in the movie started screaming and I change my mind again. If these women... Women who wanted and planned to have a birth naturally were moaning/screaming in pain, crying and saying they couldn't do it. How am I suppose to deal with something like that?!

The up side to me seems to be when the baby comes out. I love how even though they're all sticky and kinda gross-looking they go straight in mommy's arms. It's so animalistic, natural and I LOVE that. It kind of made me sad, even on "A Baby Story" today when the baby was whisked away to be weighed and cleaned and stuff before the mom got to hold it. Another woman in the documentary grabbed her baby right out of herself, and while it was slightly weird, it was strangely cool too. I wonder if all that pain immediately goes away once you hear and see the baby or if I'd be like "Umm, I can't look at you for a moment, you hurt me."

It would be cool to say "I did it naturally" but I don't know if I'd be able to do it. I'm not sure if the home birth thing is for me... And I'm not sure what my husband would think. I imagine he'd think like the husband/dad/football player I just watched on this show who was like "I don't want all that stuff coming out all over the bed... I've gotta sleep there!"

Speaking of husbands, I've heard some of my friends say they don't want their husbands watching "down there" during labor, for fear they won't want to doit anymore. All I've gotta say is--Not only is my husband going to be watching he's going to be video taping the whole thing (my choice not his)! So the place I deliver DOES have to be a place that allows video cameras cause Lawd knows I've watched enough labors and I want to be able to see my own... Don't worry, I won't play it for you when you come over, I just think it would be cool for me to see later... Again with the fascination. Perhaps I'll even show it to my kids so they WON'T want to go down the "getting pregnant before you'd 'pose to road"... Hey, it worked for me!

But there are so many options.. Water birth looks kind of cool too! I don't know though. I imagine I'll just plan on a hospital cause I HATE pain! And that's pretty much my #1 goal as of now--As painless as possible. Hopefully I'll find a nice one that is cozy and whatnot and can feel like home.-- Maybe I'll even stalk it a lot beforehand so it does feel more homey.

I think I'm going to be one of those sorta-crazy extra-informed people who does a lot of research, reads a lot of books and talks to a lot of professionals before I make my final decision. Yea... I think this is only the beginning of my fascination. Maybe I'm over-thinking it, but one point I thought the documentary made was that a lot of people spend more time choosing a house, or car or TV than they do deciding on how to bring their baby into this world. Umm, just based on this blog alone I DOUBT that will be me.

What do you think of home births, birthing centers, hospital births? I'm not trying to start a debate here on what's better because I think situations are different for each person, but I am interested in knowing what avenue you chose or will choose.

Ok now on to the fun part--One person that may be fun to chat with is a birthing coach or mentor. Sounds a little weird right? Ok.. Maybe it's a little odd, but my fascination couldn't keep me from finding out what the heck that meant and I met Karen Angstad through Twitter and we were chatting about interesting things even before you get to the birth part! She even says she can help teach women how to experience a pain-free birth (and I wonder if the orgasmic births are on her list)! Oh yea, I'm going to be chatting with her about some cool stuff once I'm ready to turn my Baby Makin' Machine "ON!"

Well, after talking with Karen, she was nice enough to offer one of my readers a free one-hour mentor session with her! During your mentor session, discuss your desires, fears, and intentions in relation to your pregnancy, birth and mothering. This is for women pre-conception, mid-pregnancy or post partum (so that covers us all right?!). Uniquely tailored to each woman's needs, Karen's mentor program is focused on empowering each woman to trust in her body's ability to birth, connect to her inner knowing, and find the support and resources she needs to embrace the sacred journey of pregnancy and birth. Conscious parenting begins before birth.

How fun right? Someone to chat with about all this pre-conception, mid-pregnancy, and post labor stuff! She also has a lot of helpful information on her site about "How to expect what you're expecting" etc!

So leave a comment, tell me about your labor experiences or anticipations for the future and you'll be entered in to win the mentor session! Let me know if you follow me, Tweet about the contest, post, subscribe, have my button, or any of that other good stuff for extra entries. I'll draw a number via random.org and in touch with the winner and set you up with Karen. Giveaway ends June 30th. (I'll contact the winner and ask if they'd like to use/gift the session or if you don't need it, pass it to the next winner).

More info about Karen Angstadt: A Birth Mentor with over ten years experience empowering women. As founder of Intentional Birth, Karen's mission is to prevent and heal the pain of birth trauma. She teaches women how to experience pain-free birth, leading them to discover their Inner Guide to the best possible birth experience. She is the author of the Living Intention e-zine and serves women through individual mentoring, tele-seminars, and home study material. Learn more at http://www.intentionalbirth.com/

The Good Times--Summer Time

Our air conditioner went out last week. It brought back memories of our first year of marriage when we could hardly afford to keep our air conditioner on during the hot summers... Or our second year of marriage when we lived in student housing where there was no A.C. Fortunately, we can now afford to cool our home but we now had to deal with a broken A.C.!

We escaped our house with the trapped, sauna-like heat in exchange for the blazing heat outside when we took our dog for a walk. That's when I heard a beautiful sound that reminded me of my childhood--and the feeling of urgency rushing through my veins. I almost dropped the leash and darted in the street as I would have done when I was a kid--But then I remembered where I was, and who I was. I am not a 7-year old, drolling after the sound of the ice-cream man. No--I was a 23-year-old drooling after the sound of the ice cream man!

My husband didn't let me give in to my childish desires. He instead, promised we could go to Sonic's happy hour and get a limeade after our walk. That quenched my thirst and cooled me down for awhile. But that night when we were getting snug (but not too snug, cause it was hot!) on our couch downstairs--Where we has been sleeping the last few nights--the fan blowing in our faces to keep us somewhat cool, we couldn't take it anymore... We decided to go out for a late night run for what else?--Ice cream.

I'm not a big ice cream eater (I know, how am I human?!). In fact, I'm really picky about the kind of ice cream I eat. If it's in a tub, I only like a little bit of vanilla or cookie dough ice cream. So when we decided to stock up, I got boxes and boxes of fruit popsicles and drumsticks. Yum! I was also debating adding a box of those dove bars... Oooh, and the ice cream sandwitches, snickers ice cream-- Choco Taco!? YUM! But I knew I couldn't--Wouldn't eat it all so I stopped after the fruit bars and drumsticks.As we laid on our couch that night slurping on our dessert I couldn't help but wonder what it will be like when we have a messy mini-us joining in on our fun. Will we wake him up at night to make the emergency run for ice cream? Or will we sacrifice our cravings to leave him asleep? When will he all to too be excited to chase into a busy street after the ice cream man?
Sometimes I think I'm still a kid--How can I raise one myself? But then I think again, and realize how fun it will be to grow up together.
This post was inspired by Danielle's Fabulous Friday's. "Fabulous Summer Treats." Do you have a favorite summer treat? Did you or do your kids risk their lives chasing after the ice cream man? I'd love to know I'm not alone!

PS: If you like the look of my blog you may be interested in getting a new design of your own from my designer. She's giving one away for free right now here.

The Premature Breakdown

I don't know what it was or where it came from, but the conversation of "when"--The official goal-setting timetable of what we want accomplished first and when we hope my Baby Makin' Machine will officially switch "ON"--also turned on the knobs to my water works.

I've always been a big crier, so normally my sudden tears wouldn't surprise my husband too much, but this time it only confused him.

Him: "You're worried you're what?"
Me: *Sniffles*
Him: ???!
Me: "That I'm infertile!!"
Him: "What?!" (tries to stifle a laugh)
Me: "DON'T LAUGH AT ME!"
Him: "Well don't you think it's a little early to be worried about that?"
Me: "I don't know... All of my friends are getting pregnant on accident, and we've been married four and a half years and that hasn't happened to us!"
Him: "So you're worried because your birth control hasn't failed?" (tries to hide a smile)
Me: "Ye--No!"
Him: (Obviously laughing) "You are worried you're infertile because the birth control is doing what it's suppose to do?"
Me: "I don't know!"
Him: "Don't worry about that, it'll all work out. But if you are going to worry about it, at least wait until we're not trying to not get pregnant."

I had thought about it before but never had the worry hit me like I let it this time. We had a serious conversation about "whatifs"-- Though quite early, and probably unnecessary, it was nice to get it all out and talk about options and solutions beforehand.

Unfortunately, we're not the type who will have an in-between period where we'll "not try, not prevent." Both of us are a little too controlling to do that. We either want it or we don't--There's not really anything in-between about it.

Planning so much has really made me think I'm going to be a nutcase when it's time to rock and roll, and I worry that will prohibit me from achieving the ultimate goal...Actually, based on what I've read, I'm pretty sure it will. Getting all of this out made me think I'll be able to be calm and just let things happen. And while I still sometimes worry and think about and try to plan a step ahead of the "whatifs" I've decided to cross that bridge when I actually get there--Even through it's scary not knowing what's on the other side of that bridge.

Are you or were you ever worried about this?--Is it a normal woman thing?

The Pregnancy (Length) Debate

Just to set the record straight I always thought pregnancy was 9 months. I mean.. that's what everyone says in movies, that's the comparison/ ratio people who haven't been pregnant before expect pregnant women to compare their progress to. That's just what many of us (or so I thought) saw as "standard."

Well, when I started this blog I asked the secrets...Questions... Tips... Ideas... Things not everyone tells you about pregnancy and you're left to find out yourself when you're knocked up and at the point of no return. That's when I found out--Or was told, that pregnancy is actually more like 10 months.. Not 9. And that they pretty much don't tell you that until you're pregnant. So when you find out you're with-spawn, thinking you've got one month down and 8 more to go... You probably have another--What? 9 months left in actuality?

Ever since then, I've pretty much sarcastically referred to pregnancy as a 10 month process--Thinking it was considerably accurate since pregnancy is technically 40 weeks and there's about 4 weeks in a month so BAM--10 Months.

Well, yesterday I got an interesting comment on my "Sex Natzi" post from an person who wished to remain anonymous who made me start to second guess my helpful secret-givers. Here's what they said:

"Future Mama, If you read this I would appreciate you acknowledging in the future the point that I am about to make. You have repeatedly said that pregnancy "is actually like 10 months." Let's do the math. There are 40 weeks in pregnancy or 280 days. The first two weeks are 100% normal because they start at ovulation before conception. That means you have 266 days from conception to due date. That means that pregnancy is less than 9 months. I think of it as about 8 months because 99% of the people don't even have any symptoms or think about for the first week or two after conception. I am sure this is the straw that will push you over the edge and will give you the courage to start a family. (I just knocked off 20% of pregnancy for free.) I enjoy reading your blog but would appreciate it if you never mentioned the 'pregnancy is 10 months' concept again."

Closer to 8 months?! Wow! I went from 10-10.5 months to "feels like 8" in a matter of moments, sign me up for pregnancy!!

...Now because it is my blog, I've decided that I would bring up the concept again, and not only that, I'd devote a whole topic to it and get YOUR opinion. Unfortunately I don't know who the commenter is so I didn't have a way of responding in an email or anything, but hopefully they're reading now and can let me know more about their theory!

First off, I really wish I knew the real intentions and tone they were in. I'm not sure if it was meant to be funny, or serious, if they've had kids before or not, or if the thought of being pregnant for 10 months just scared the poop out of them too so they wanted me to correct it so they would feel better. No no... Perhaps they were just trying to make a case to get me to have a baby RIGHT NOW! (...I'm working on it anonymous!!) Well.. sorta.

Anyway, I first opened the discussion to my Twitter followers and here's how it went:

Me: "If you had to choose would you say pregnancy is closer to 8 or 10 months? I've heard both so enlighten me!!" And here were all of my @replies in a matter of minutes...
VictoriaArya: 10 months
mommyisrocknrol: 10!
tmhmom: Pregnancy averages 40 wks. That's technically closer to 10 months. But that's forever, so we shorten it to nine.
sharonsnest: 10
donotgiveup: Well from what I've experienced it's about 8 to 8 1/2
puretrance: Closer to 10~!
1HipMama: 10, I'm sorry to say as long as we're talking "full-term
fentonslee: it depends on a lot of factors, and when you consider it to begin. fertilization, implantation, last menstrual cycle, test+
4boys4now: 10!!!!! DEF NOT 8!!!!
Blacktating: Definitely 10 months. I went to 42 weeks. Even if you give birth at 38 weeks, it's 10 months. 10 lunar months. 10 10 10 10
psycho_mama: 10 months. But it can also depend on your health and the health of the baby.
Jen2Squared: 10 months! So not 8.
erincharp: Definitely ten but so worth it
SomethingGirl: Well, it's 9 month names and 40ish weeks. Where's the controversy?
nevona: 10 months?
chatterboxcgc: Most definitely closer to 10 months. At least for me it was.
jessienuez: i say it's closer to 10
fentonslee: its closer to 10, even when theyre early. the giddy xpectation and the swollen achy feet make it seem to stretch out.
ciaraj13: typically a pregnancy is 40 wks, but can vary from person to person
MrsMomNY: Depends on if it's an easy or rough one. Being sick makes it feel like forever (I mean ten mths). LOL
msrib: 10 months. 40 weeks is so not 8 months! that baby would be a preemie :(
JDpregnancy: 10 mo. It's 40 weeks & a month is approx 4 weeks so that makes 10 months.
laurathemum: closer to 10! it's 40 weeks & approximately 4 weeks per month - 10 months.
SomethingGirl: Well, if there are four weeks in a month, then it's 10 months. But there ISN'T four weeks. It's more like 4.3.
TheBabyTree: Definitely 10 months! Unless you are lucky like my sis and always go early!
SweetWifey (several tweets): Full term pregnancy is 40 wks (10 months). If u don't go into labor naturally, most OBs won't induce you until at least a week later. I was due Dec. 28th (40 weeks). But I wasnt dilating beyond 1 cm and OB ended up inducing me 4 days later.He came Jan 3rd,which was 6 days past my duedate. So essentially, i was pregnancy for 41 weeks, which is close to 10 1/2 months (lol). So im confused at anyone who would say pregnancy is closer to 8 months?Thats 32 weeks.That would be termed a premature birth,tho the baby would likely be healthy. And the only reason my OB induced my so soon (4 days after my duedate passed) is because she was going out of town. lol. She really preferred to wait, to let me body go into labor naturally. Decreases chance of having to get a c-section.
milyjh75: I went on or around my due date 3 times, then the fourth was 42 w 4 d

Needless to say I'm not alone in my confusion/ assumption. Granted, I did compare 8 months to 10 months, and maybe it is right in the middle, but it still seems as though a lot of people who have had children say it was more like 10 months for them--Or perhaps it just felt like it?

I thought breastfeeding and co-sleeping were heated topics but I had no idea the amount of time you're pregnant could also be thought as controversial! @SomethingGirl told me some women debate over the issue... Because while some women believe you should wait until the baby is ready to come out naturally, and on it's own--Others believe that could lead to stillborn births, and other problems--A really big baby for one, less amniotic fluid, and other things that could lead to complications.

So I guess while some people go well past their due date and actually DO wind up being pregnant for 10 months (or more) others believe that's just dangerous, and should be avoided. I think another reason for confusion is because of the whole inconsistent counting system. I mentally count pregnancy in months but my friends who are pregnant think of it all in weeks.. I don't know anyone who counts in days. If you average out the 4 weeks in a month--That's where people get 10 months. Then again if you're pregnant and counting one month every time you hit 30 to 31 days I guess it would feel/ be more like 9 months. But I think it's a hard thing to try to count! For one--not everyone is the same and two--What if it's a Leap Year?!

So what do you think? And Anonymous, if you're still out there I'd love to know your position on all of this. Do you consider pregnancy 8 months? 9 months? 10 months? Heck... Maybe you can even pull a "I didn't know" and it'll feel like no months, once you realize you've given birth to your child in the toilet.

The April and May Mommy Moment Features

It's time to open up nominations for the June spotlight! So share your favorite "Mommy Moment" you have this month--Remember, in my world, you don't have to be a mom to have "mommy moments". In your post, let people know it's an entry for the Mommy Moment Contest with a link to this post! Then, let me know where it is in the comments section, or email it to babymakingmachine(at)gmail(dot)com.

Our guest judge this month is Kari from Alas 3 Lads. She is like me.. a little OCD, a night owl, and dog lover. But she's also a wife, former nurse gone stay-at-home-mom from Kentucky. Check out her blog.. But no, she's not taking bribes.

I'll accept the entries until June 25th and we'll announce the winner shortly there after! Good luck! Can't wait to read more of yalls fabulous posts! To see all of last month's entries click here.

But before you run off to write about your adorable stories I want to introduce you to the April and May winners. I had the pleasure of interviewing both Sarah P from Seraphim and Marybeth from Desperately Searching for my Inner Mary Poppins. Both have wonderful blogs!

Here's a little more about them:

Name? Marybeth

Blog Name? Desperately Searching for My Inner Mary Poppins

How many kids do you have? 3

What is your favorite thing about being a mom? Cuddling with my kids and listening their conversations!

What is the hardest part about being a mom? Listening to children bicker!

What is your blog about? Desperately Searching for My Inner Mary Poppins.....it's the name of my blog, and sorta the way I live my life. From the wonderful joys of being a mother to my moments as an aspiring author, I'm always searching for the magic and perfection!

How did you start blogging? A friend of my sisters kept posting her blog on facebook and her post insanely entertained me. Then I thought, “I could do this.”

How long have you had your blog? 3 Months

What are some tips for new bloggers? Be yourself while still being relevant. People love to read what is real!

Your 3 favorite posts you've written ? The Invasion

Why Motherhood is Masochistic

Is Coffee the Key to Success?

Spread the love: 3 other blogs you love? Just three!?!?! Ok...

Pajamas and Coffee

Welcome to the Momplex

Maneuvering Motherhood

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Name:
Sarah P

Blog Name:
Seraphim

How many kids do you have?
I have three children, my eldest is six and is known as Mr Large on my blog. My daughter is nearly five and she is known as Miss Medium and my youngest is nearly two and known as Mr Small.

What is your favorite thins about being a mom?
I could write you a really long list but I'll condence it to this. The unconditional love it creates within me.

What is the hardest part about being a mom?
See above. Unconditional love is wonderful, but it can also be exhausting.

What is your blog about?
It’s largely about motherhood, juggling work and family, but for me a very important part is working with mothers who have lost their babies or their children. So often they get great support immediately afterwards, but then their story is gradually forgotten. I lost a sibling many years ago to SIDS. I’ve never forgotten him and it’s really important to me to honour these women and their babies. I’m working with my brother on creating beautiful images for these women and their families. I’ve only started this recently, and I’m not really sure where I’ll be taking it. I like the sense of unknown with this blog.

How did you start blogging?
I started blogging when I was trying to research about a friend’s infertility. I’d had some difficulties falling pregnant myself but knew nothing about what she was going through. I wanted to know more, so started researching and came across all these amazing blogs by all these amazing women. The trouble is, until we face a hurdle, we often take motherhood for granted, a given. And for so many women it’s not.

How long have you had your blog?
Oh gosh, over a year now. It’s undergone new looks frequently, thank in large part to Danielle. She keeps coming up with all these news looks and designs and I love them so much. Like me, my blog keeps evolving!

What are some tips for new bloggers?
When I started I distinctly remember saying, I didn’t know what the purpose of my blog was. You don’t have to have a purpose in mind. Just enjoy the process. Read other blogs and comment on them as well. That way people get to know you too. Join forums to discuss topics that you are interested in. I began at LFCA, a site that provides support for women struggling with infertility, miscarriage and pregnancy.

Your 3 favorite posts you've written?
The one I nominated for: Say it with flowers and Love’s Brother and one I wrote about a wedding I’m planning: The Wedding Spanner

Spread the love: 3 other blogs you love?
Apart from yours you mean? That’s really tough because if you saw my blogroll you’d realise I follow a lot of wonderful blogs. But, if you pinned me down and threatened me then I’d pick:
My friend Carly’s blog, she does wonderful work with her “Write their Names in the Sand”
Stacy’s Blog “He will carry me”
and because it is just so cheering to read, I love Kelly’s Korner. (I don’t think she even knows I exist, but it’s a really heartening blog to read)

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Want to be featured? Don't forget to submit your post here!! You have a couple of weeks, but don't forget! :) Oh, and remember... You don't have to be a mommy to a human to have a mommy moment!

The Sex Natzi

You know that commercial that goes: "When you're ready to have a baby, nine months is long enough to wait?" Well, they fail to mention 1. That is actually more like 10 months and 2. All the waiting beforehand!

There are a few technicalities I'm trying to work out during the next few months, before turning the Baby Makin' Machine "on" and into full-gear--But in the mean time, I'm planning my strategy--Sketching my blueprints--Setting the table--for when it's All Systems Go.

...You think I'm kidding? I'm planning a little D B Day of my own over here and there's going to be no excuses for not following my rules.

If he only knew what I have in store, he'd sleep with one eye open. I've already got plans for a few pair of underwear that just aint gonna make the cut. That's right-- Any undies that are the slightest bit tight... Gotta go! Can have any tighty-whities hurting the team.

Speaking of the team--Forget saving electricity. It's hot in Texas, and desperate times call for desperate measures... We're not sacrificing the swimmers for a cheaper electric bill.--And you'd better believe I'll turn the hot water off if I have to. Hunni likes to take a hot bath every now and then but that little habit has gotta go too.

Peas? "NO you can't eat that, what are you THINKING?!" ...We hardly eat them, but you'd better believe they're out of our diet for the next--Until I'm pregnant. Take the vitamin hun... I'm already taking one everyday, 'bout time he starts too.

Now's the time I also thank the Lord my hunni's not a biker... Cause I'd hate to make him quit a hobby.

And when my temperature shoots up and it's time to rock and roll...The dog is going to his own room and the house WILL be on lock-down. And I may just have to bust out those newlywed handcuffs again.

It's sad. Because I know if pregnancy just happened... I'd live with it. But knowing that I'm actually going to have to WORK for this makes me nervous. What if I fail? If it takes awhile? I know they say it does for most people but that's just not fair. People who want to, have to wait. And people who don't want to, get it anyway?

What if my Baby Makin' Machine is broken--And this whole time, all these years I just had no idea? Not. Fair. Every single month of failure will be TORTUROUS!

...I know stress can make things harder too... Perhaps that's a good excuse to get a spa massage daily during this process. And should I get one of these?

I promise I will NOT take fertility for granted. I've met my fair share of women struggling and who have struggled and my heart aches for them just reading and hearing about their stories. If I'm faced with the same challenge I worry I won't be as strong.

Having a baby isn't something I've wanted or admitted until very recently. Now it's practically all I can think about. Yea, I go back and forth a little still, but deep down I know there's a looming "yes" underneath all of my doubts.

I'm already tracking and researching... My sweet husband, when it's time to turn the Baby Makin' Machine "ON"... Poor guy's not going to know what hit him.

The False Symptoms

The past few days I haven't had much time to really think about blogging... I mean really, if you couldn't tell, yesterday my post was kind of like "Wahm bam, thank you ma'am" I didn't feel like adding more than my raw journal entry, and that's what we got. To be honest, my eyes were drooping and my head nodding off by the time I hit "publish."

When I woke up this morning I read it over again, praying I didn't have spelling mistakes. I didn't, just a sentence left half-written: "I almost bought a First Response early detection test but."

....Yea, that's how I left it. Oh dear. Yes, I've completed the sentence now in case you want to re-read the post.--I know you were dying to know the rest of that thought.

Oh well, that's how it gets sometimes right?

I'm not going to lie, it has to do with the fact that I can't stay up past 10 lately. In fact, I just woke up from a 3-hour nap. Part of the cause could be because my husband was watching golf--Perfect napping television... Or the fact that our couch is very comfortable... But every day this week?

I know chronic sleepiness is a pregnancy symptom, and I'm not implying that I'm pregnant, but instead wondering if it's possible that when that time comes, these non-symptoms will intensify with the real symptoms.

For example... I get random cravings. I guess it's normal for every woman every now and then to want a taste of chocolate RIGHT NOW...But sending my husband out for a late night run for hot dogs and donuts doesn't sound like the "Average-Jane" situation to me... Or does it? What about oranges and funnel cake? Tacos and chocolate-covered strawberries? Fried chicken and watermelon... (Ok, maybe the last one isn't so weird).

All of these random combinations are things I have craved recently and felt like I must eat it right then! It would be nice to at least have the excuse of pregnancy to want such things at such random times but I don't.--And it only makes me worry my hungers will get weirder and intensify when I am pregnant.

And what about my sleepiness and strange intense dreams? Will getting pregnant automatically throw me into the realms of dreamless narcolepsy?

...Or perhaps I'll get lucky and everything will turn around like the Mad Hatter table in Alice in Wonderland where all reason and logic--Normal things, are backwards--Once I'm pregnant I'll never be sleepy and I'll eat normal things.. Healthy things. Oh how that would be nice.

Did you have crazy cravings before you were even pregnant? Did they go away after you were? How about sleepiness? Am I crazy?

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The winners of the Baby Shower Gift Set and $15 gift certificate to Oh Baby Boutique giveaway by Josie from Raising Baby Cheap are:
Gift Set: #12: The Royal Family
Gift Certificate: #17 Destiny
Contact me with your info at babymakingmachine (at) gmail (dot) com.
Also don't forget about my tile necklace giveaway that ends Monday night!

The False Alarm

So this is how it all went down.

I had a dream about being pregnant with twins. I woke up, and that was the first day I'd ever been late.. At least that I can remember. Days 2 and 3 late went by and I began to wonder, for real. I had never been this late before. Late day 2 I took another test... Correctly. Negative.

I wasn't about to take another one on Day 3, but I did decide to look over my charts. I noticed my temperature went up a few days later than it normally does, (which means ovulation is later as well) BINGO! That's why she was running late! So as I expected, when day 30 rolled around so did day one... Thank you "Taking Charge of Your Fertility"... great book by the way. If you don't like hormones and want to prevent "naturally" try this out.
I almost bought a First Response early detection test but... I decided against it since I was highly doubting being with-spawn.

And another thing. I'm beginning to think, either this stuff is more effective than everyone thinks (it says 94% on the box) or I'm not gonna get knocked up as easy as I'd like to when the time comes. I'm actually a little worried about that... I guess we'll see what happens.

My BFF was totally hoping I was pregnant. I actually think she may be doing some voodoo to try to make it happen.

Anyway, that was my first real false alarm in I don't know how long! It wasn't as scary as I thought it would be. Perhaps because I don't feel like a matter of months doesn't make that much of a difference.

Have you been there with false alarms? I'm sure there are more horrible stories than mine, and I only imagine it'll be worse when it's what I actually want.

The May Mommy Moment Winner(s)!

I read ALL of your submitted posts and I loved them all! I'm so glad I didn't have to choose a winner cause they were all SO GOOD! Thank you so much for the submissions!

Danielle had her work cut out for her but she made her decision. The May Mommy Moment of The Month Winner is....

Seraphim from Oh the Possibilities: "Say it With Flowers"
Oh but wait, it doesn't end there. I didn't have a winner for April and Danielle loved this post from April too so the April winner is...

Marybeth from Desperately Searching for My Inner Mary Poppins: "The Fate of 'Roger' the Ant"

Congrats! I'll be emailing both of you some questions for your feature post!

Now I also want to highlight these honorable mentions
1. Natalie from The Bobby Pin: "Smile"
Natalie, is also a future mama! I loved this post because I have absolutely been there, and felt this feeling. It's sure to put a smile on your face.
2. Quel from HomeGirl: "My First Day Back at The Gym"
Ok this one made me laugh because I've been on the other side of this situation several times working at daycare, and yes, when I'm a mom, I will be jealous of things my kid likes.

And please check out the rest of these posts. I loved each and every one of these and suggest you read all of them when you can! In the order they were received:
1. April from At Home with the Holmes: "Stir Crazy"
We all know there are some misconceptions with SAHMommyhood... I know I learned that the hard way, but after reading this post, I'm seeing even some simple tasks can turn difficult, yet very entertaining very quickly.
2. Emmy from Emmy Mom--One Day at a Time: "Backwards, Sideways and Inside out"
Umm, can I just say I remember these days?--Back when underwear was so hard to put on correctly. Oh, it won't be too long until I have my own little one like this struggling with the same problem.
3. Yakini from The Prissy Mommy Chronicles: "(Mis)Adventures in Eating Solids"
Ok this was is HILARIOUS and has a great video to prove this exact title. Believe it or not I've had the same situation with the boy I babysit, however I didn't have a camera rolling.-- This is a must see.
4. Kelly from Kelly and Her Boys: "Ode to Me! Hey, I'm the Mom Around Here"
A different twist on a Mother's Day poem. Not all roses here, she told her kids what she really thinks. It's really too cute.
5. Christy from That's Who I Am: "This is Why I Go To Work EVERYDAY!!"
Ok this one has a special place in my heart because she, like me is a future mama, but experiences little mommy moments every day at her job. I hope you'll take a moment to check this out cause while this moment made her day--Reading it, made mine.
6. Kate from Simply Mother: "Dinner Dilemma"
Sadly, I'm already there, but she sums this up better than I ever could--Even when I am on the mommy side of the road! Let's just pray I don't raise my kids at McDonalds.
7. Slee from Paisley and Pretties: "Selfish Mamahood"
This one seriously made me smile I can picture my husband and I having this same discussion over my little one. As a matter of fact, I think I've been here already with my puppy!
8. Cat aka Mama Nut from 4 Nuts in a Nutshell: "Sammy Finds Jesus"
Cat has a beautiful family and this is a great video of a beautiful milestone with her sweet son. You've gotta check it out!

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And for all of you who were wondering about my pregnancy status... False alarm my friends, false alarm. I'll have more on that later.

Oh, and I was on the Chatterbox Radio today talking about being the 4th Wheel Blogroller to BlogHer '09. You can listen to it here.