Baby McEnaney's Blog

You're cramping my style

2011-06-07T14:44:00.000-04:00

If there is one thing for sure, I'm confident that BabyMc 2 has an oppinion. The puzzled expression on your face makes me realize I have to clarify myself. I know this becuase as I sit just about any where and whether I sit cross-legged or take a more manly posture, BabyMc 2 doesn't like when I cramp its style.

2.5 years and I still cried leaving him at "school"

2011-06-07T14:39:00.000-04:00

Today....Eli is the new kid at school. We decided to start him at a "school" (a fancy word for day care) because it was time that Eli be around 1. other kids and 2. be in a more structured environment. This has been the plan for 2.5 years now, but when it came right down to it....I cried like a baby when I left the parking lot. I actually teared up before getting into my car. This has to be a good primer for when he starts Kindergarten or goes to high school or prom or college or moves out or has his own kids or, well you get the idea. Right?

You can blame it on the wildly raging hormones that are pouring through my veins right now, but I don't think my reaction is far off. My perspective has changed since having one baby and I find myself wondering if anything is good enough and will he be "OK" mentally after he goes through our upbringing. After all, the choices that Scott and I make today somehow impact him later.

I guess my main concern, other than did we make a right decision, is whether or not the School/Day Care will like him? Will he be expelled because he snatched a toy or pushed another child? Will the teachers describe him to co-workers as a pain or a brat. Clearly, I don't think either of those awful nicknames would fit him. I'm biased though. I would, however, describe him as confident, loving, a leader, a charmer, someone who is learning and willing to negotiate, a protester, a person who is quick to "get over it", a funny little guy and many more positive things that reflect my child in the best possible way. (Huh...I read some of these attributes and I think of Scott and I....how strange). I would rather have these attributes than some others that I'll leave out of this article for fear of offending and also bringing abuse to myself.

There isn't much I can do to control others oppinions of my kids, or even myself. But I'd be a bit peeved if someone didn't like him. He is, after all, perfect. And ONLY Scott or I can point out his faults. His grandparents are quick to defend him.

Week two is not going as smoothly. Monday drop off came and he started crying when I pulled in the driveway. I cried as I pulled out of the driveway.

He is our boy (maybe not the only one we have...we shall soon find out) and no one can ever explain your love for your own child. I guess this entire lesson has made me think and reflect on our decisions and how they impact him. Tough job!

Now taking wagers! Boy or Girl?

2011-04-27T20:36:00.000-04:00

So the 7 months of suspense are just about killing me. What is Baby McEnaney? Another rugged young boy who will antagonize his older and tough brother? OR is a girl destined for our home and will grace us with her rugged style and athleticism of her mother? Overwhelmingly, the verbal guesses are GIRL! But will the masses be shocked with a boy?

Mom's Instincts: In summary...I just don't have a clue! Lets just give you a few scenarios to consider:

Scott and I had a girls name thought up before this baby was conceived. And to me, it brings tears and happiness to my eyes and a smile to Scott's face. The first and middle name mean something special to both of us. With this special name being established before conception, it might have sent a false expectation of what a new baby might be. To this day, it still makes me smile and jittery with excitement. I will say that it was Scott's suggestion and I QUICKLY agreed it was perfect.
A boys name was thought up...a few months ago upon my suggestion and Scott QUICKLY agreed that it was as equally as special to both of us and both first and middle names are in the family. It makes me smile and excited to have this person running around.
Each week, my mind changes as to what this baby is. I can't decide. Upon comparison with Eli's pregnancy....after nine months of waiting to meet him...I would have been shocked if Eli was a girl. I just new I was going to have a boy. Something about mom's intuition.
The final factor for me in this mystery is that I've said well before my babies came into the picture that I would be surrounded by boy's all my life. As a young girl in Cumberland, RI, I recall VIVIDLY playing with the family up the street, "The Whites", and my older brother. I also recall them vividly trying to ditch my butt and go be boys. Despite the attempted ditching, I appreciate them beyond belief. They are my older brothers and we've all managed to keep in touch and be each others extended family. So there is a strong tolerance, acceptance, and appreciation for having boys in my life.

Dad's Instincts: He is as equally muddled in is prediction of what this baby is going to be. Predictions vary week to week and I usually have to push him to make a prediction. Scott is famous for saying to me "I don't speculate." My response to him...."Go Crazy! Speculate for me!"

In the end, I don't have a preference either way. Honestly, I don't. From a practical point of view, I guess it would be easier to have a boy because we have lots of boy hand me downs. But, to me...it doesn't really matter. Navy turtlenecks are a good for a girl or a boy. My final thought on this mysterious topic is as follows....I'm happy to not know what this baby is. It is a sweet and delicious mystery of life that joys us regardless. There is nothing so describable for me, as a mom, than the moment you find out what you had. It makes labor and delivery all worth it for sure and takes any pain or discomfort away, at least at that moment.

In closing, I'm trying to be patient, but man am I really eager to know what this baby is! 3 months seems like a long time right now.

I'll be done being a mom when they turn 18, right?

2011-04-07T09:07:00.002-04:00

I've been mulling on this topic for a while now. And seeing as I'm home sick for the past two days and have called my mom and Betty for council on getting better and managing my own kid, I can confidently say...NO...I won't be done being a mom at 18.

Every once in a while I have this thought that I'll stop worrying or mothering when Eli and the new babe turn 18. I'll go back to being just me and Scott. This isn't so. After these McEnaney kids turn 18 I will start to worry about their safety outside of my home. What are they eating for dinner? Is there new friend really appreciating them for who they are? When they marry are they doing it for the right reasons? Are they contributing to a 401k so they have fun after they retire? Are they happy?

All these stupid things that go through my head....and Eli put a cereal box on his head the other night ant the other little McEnaney isn't even born yet. I must be crazy. Well not really because I'm sure this is kind of normal and many parents want nothing but a good life for their kids right.

I also think that my worries are somewhat miss directed. Call me a bit paranoid but maybe I should worry more about the world and the choices our leaders are making that will impact my kids. The two strings of thought are definitely important. And to make things even more fun...I haven't a clue what tondo about either other than to raise my kiddie to the best ability I can and vote and write my leaders when I think that some thing should be different. Well I'm doing two of the three that I just mentioned. I'll tell you what though...the third one isn't something that I'm going to do today....I'm just going to get better and call my mom if things don't improve.

Little McEnaney at 21 weeks

2011-03-23T21:08:00.000-04:00

So what is going on in there with Baby Mc number 2? Well we went for an ultrasound yesterday and baby was laying across my belly being cradled by my hip bones with a bladder for a mattress. We were able to see it open it's mouth a few times and try to either yawn or mouth at his/her arm.

That movement of watching baby open the mouth was just so human. It was beyond the human noise of a heart beat. It just made me very excited. We are just over half way through this baby's development and the time is flying...almost too fast. It is a bit hard to slow down and appreciate this moment in my life with all the amazing things that Eli is doing. I think what is helpful is that the weather is sloooowly changing and it makes for good walks in the afternoon with Eli and plenty of time to appreciate him and the moment we are in. I guess this is what they mean when you should stop and smell the roses. I'll take what time there is.

"I would do it all again, if I could"

2011-03-08T06:12:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was in a conversation with a mom of 20 or so plus years. She was talking to me and another pregnant woman (first timer) and the conversation was about our growing baby bumps and it turned to how wonderful it is. The first time mom was expressing the typical concern about birth. The second time mom, me, was also expressing the typical concern about birth. Both concerns completely valid and both concerns from different perspectives.

The veteran mom stated "I would do it all again if I could". It was this line that struck me and I knew that she was right. I'm back in the pregnancy pants again and although I know what to expect with pregnancy (kind of) and birth (kind of) and parenting a child (but not a second one), it is obvious that mothers do this all the time and more than twice.

So it made me just think about my known fears of second pregnancy and birth. And it made me wonder why we do it again? These days I talk to my "Bro" about once a week and see him at least once per month. We still tease each other and joke and I really think that we get a kick out of being together...and mostly supporting each other through life. I tell him what to do...he tells me what to do. I listen...he listens. I think my relationship with him is part of why I'm back in the prego pants again.

Sure, having a cute cuddly baby around the house is cute and cuddly, but lets get real. It only lasts a short time before they're running around half naked and telling you "NO". AND, when they are really little, they aren't always cute and cuddly. Things aren't always the hallmark card.

So the real deal here is that Eli is going to be a pretty fun big brother. If I could hope for one thing it would be that I catch the two of them somewhere exploring the woods together or discovering the joy of splashing water or climbing a tree. I would wish for this moment just before they wrestle each other to the ground over a favorite matchbox car. If they end up not wrestling...I'll take that too.

So it is too late for me to ask myself if I want to do it all again. However, I'm doing it again so I must have thought it was a good idea about 5.5 or 6 months ago.

Weekends at Grammies...like a mini vacation

2011-02-24T17:30:00.003-05:00

There is nothing like a weekend at Grammies house. It is a mini vacation and I don't have to buy tickets, get frisked at an airport, or spend the day to get to my destination only to climb into some hotel bed where I wonder if there are bed bugs jumping into my hair, clothes, oh you get the picture.

Eli went to Grammie Potter's this weekend and what started out as one night ended up being two. Although I didn't spend the weekend eating bon bons and getting rubbed by some swedish massous. Scott replaced the floor in our first floor bathroom, I worked a few hours on Saturday and then we went to two party's....with no toddler. Both mornings...we woke up when we wanted to...sleeping in until 7:00am is a big deal in our house. We're early risers.

What is so strange about it is not having to keep one eye peeled on your conversation and then one eye peeled on the 2 year old and whether he has found a knife or someone's beer bottle. For two days it was just us in the house. No screeching with joy, no getting milk or defending the snack closet from the monstrous hunger of Eli, and not a whole lot of distraction to take you away from what you're doing.

I'd say the hardest part about living with a little person is the distraction. He demands your attention. We're working on teaching patience...and he does kind of get it. Now, I'm not knocking the little guy, because he plays very well by himself and aside from not knowing how to cook...he can be somewhat self sufficient. (Did I mention Eli makes a point to turn off lights....I LOVE THAT.) He is a joy to have in our lives. But two whole day's without being an immediate parent was just strange. Was this what it used to be like? Kind of seems boring.

With all the fun Scott and I had without the little devil, it was an amazing moment to be reunited with my little boy screaming "MOM" and dancing around. He was even trying to share my arrival with everyone else as if they should be so excited to see me too...THEY SHOULD!

In the moments leading up to opening the door at Aunt Carolyn's house...I had forgot that I was about to see him. I was so intent on getting there and seeing the family that I forgot that Eli was going to be there. To be greeted with such enthusiasm it was as if I was being smacked back into reality and I loved it.

The drive back home was just a big nap for Eli. Scott and I, in seperate cars, only wished we could close our eyes for a few winks just to re-coup. Because although we were able to wake up when we wanted to, I think both of us were wiped out from just being busy around the house or playing outside.

Baby McEnaney x 2

2011-02-21T09:24:00.000-05:00

I think it only fair to write about adventures in baby-dom for the new and unborn young McEnaney. If anything for my own sanity and entertainment and so each baby has a bit of a story about them.

Now, Eli has gotten the shaft, it seems, since I haven't wrote on this blog since April 2009. Hmmm, that is just about 2 years ago since I stroked the keys on this blog. In fact, I couldn't even figure out how to get in to edit this page until Scott figured out that the account is registered to his google email account (who knew or remembered that he had that account...he did...I guess).

So here we are having completed 16 weeks...OH today marks 17 weeks of a pregnancy. So far it has been a bit more challenging than the cruise control that was Eli in early pregnancy. All predictions are that it is a girl...but that is a sweet mystery to me and one that is worth waiting for until baby comes out.

First a synopsis of what has happened so far:

Belly button has popped. Seeing as the muscles in my abdomen know what they are doing...they relaxed earlier and the belly button is the first part of me to enter the room. People keep requesting me to stop pointing at them.
My last appointment at the Doctors I had gained about 5 lbs and the baby's heart rate was 150 beats per minute.
Felt kicks in the last two weeks. Mostly felt like popcorn and with that sensation, the baby's nickname is now Popcorn.
I rolled over this A.M. and the first thing to hit Scott's arm was my belly. That is wierd.
Early on didn't feel so hot. Was pretty tired and felt like...DIRT. Barfed a few times due to a pregnancy acquired gag reflex. Tamed that one a bit, but can't walk around the house with my toothbrush (yes..I multi-task while brushing my teeth).

Second...not knowing a gender for your second baby. What are the predictions so far? Well for one everyone is guessing it is a girl. So I ask the group...why? What makes you think that? My initial reaction is that it is a girl, but I can't figure out if it is because it would be good to have a girl in the house or if I had a slightly rougher start to this pregnancy than the first which makes me think it is a girl that is "stealing my beauty".

I have predicted that my life would always be surrounded by boys. I grew up chumming around the neighborhood with boys, I can play sports with some of the boys, and now I live with a houseful of boys. AND, since Scott is one of two boys, doesn't it make sense that he is more likely to have "boy sperm" (Sorry Scott)? Talk about overthinking gender? Isn't it worth just finding out to just ease you into it....NOPE. Because this IS one of life's sweet surprises that isn't much like anything else that I can think of.

So the temptation of knowing what baby is going to be is diffinately there...big time. I'm not giving in to it.

With all of this in mind, how is Eli? Well he is fine and has absolutely NO idea what is going on. I've told him a few times, but to be honest, it is a pretty big thing to grasp for a two year old. I notice it and I wonder if he notices that my belly is poofing out. He can't lean into my body when he is spralling out before bed and we're reading his books. I find that he is trying to get comfortable and can't seem to find the nook to get into. He finds it eventually.

Work Work Work

2009-04-07T18:01:00.002-04:00

Well, my last remaining hours of leave are numbered. It makes me not want to go to sleep just so I can enjoy it for a little more. Lets just say that the thought of waking up in the middle of the night to feed Eli makes me smile because I do enjoy his smile in the middle of the night. I also enjoy the fact that he goes back to sleep.

Hmmm, three months. Obviously a lot has changed in three months, including the size of Eli. My outlook has been re-shaped, my waist line has shrunk, Eli grew, Scott and I grew on many different levels, and I would even say that the dogs grew up a bit too.

So now the harsh reality of returning to work. I will say that I'm so glad I enjoy what I do and who I work with as this makes going to work easier. I know I'll have a good couple of laughs. But man, I hope the day goes by fast because the one thought that makes me smile is the fact that I get to pick Eli up at the end of my day. That one action will make my day a whole lot better and hopefully not a lot longer.

I knew this day was going to be hard. The eve of this day is even harder. I dreaded this day more than birth (well the pain of birth), but like the pain of child birth there is this great thing on the other side...picking him up after work and finishing my day with him. I guess I'll finally understand what Scott has been doing for the past few months. Racing home...to be with his son in hopes he'll have a smile for him. Now we'll be fighting over him.

There are two others that will also enjoy the end of the day too. Ghillie and Diesel. They have been good companions for the past few months, but I think they will enjoy the 8 hour naps instead of following me around. One thing I won't miss is Ghillie's persistence in chasing the cats...man..talk about driving me up a wall. Although on this final day of being home, Kat finally nailed Ghillie in the nose. That dog's nose can bleed.

Well, here is to a new start with Scott, Eli, and I. I'll leave you with this one last thought. After becoming a mom, I decided that I didn't want to utter the words "I can't wait for Eli to do....". I don't even put wait and Eli in the same sentence. Except in my new circumstances of returning to work...I can't wait to see Eli!

Back to work!

2009-04-02T11:27:00.002-04:00

Well, happy April! The exciting part is that I think April is a great month of the year. You get these glimmers of warm weather, but the chill is still in the air. The cold months have not stopped me from getting outside and Eli just enjoys the fresh air. He told me this, didn't you know?

The sad news of April is that I'm headed back to work in less than a week. One thing is for sure...my coworkers are looking forward to it. To some extent so am I. BUT, the great debate in my brain is leaving my perfect little boy. Didn't you know he is perfect? Don't tell him as we don't want him to get a big ego to go with his big self.

Yes, I'm looking forward to interacting with grown ups every day and having some bit of a routine. Although we have a pretty good one right now, but there is something about getting up, showering (that may be optional), coffee, dressing myself, and then hopping in the car only to return in 10 hours. However, the bummer part to this is that we have to leave Eli with a stranger that will watch him grow up. This is the part I don't like. Although a wise mother has told me that the best way to get through this next part is to think quality and not quantity. Eli will be enjoying quality time with his mom and dad and not quantity. Besides...we're boring anyway.

As practice for myself, I've already started the anxiety attacks, crying, and serious questioning about whether this place is good enough for my perfect little boy. Hopefully, by the time I do leave him next Wednesday, I will have shed all of my tears and only feel the anxiety about whether this place is good enough for him. However, his wise Daddy has assured me that if we don't like it...we'll go somewhere else. How about next to my desk?

Anyway, the happy stuff. Eli has been great. He has growth days every once in a while and those are usually the tougher days for him. Today the sun is shining, he is sleeping from about 7:30pm through to 7:00am with one meal during the night, and he generally likes to laugh and hang out with people. Be forewarned, if holding him...face him out becuase he likes to look out rather than over your shoulder or at you. Little bugger makes me find every mirror in the house.

There is another part to me going back to work....it confirms that in deed ...he is growing older. Three months on April 14th. Who gave the little rascal the permission to do that?

Well, this post is more conversational and updating you all rather than a story about one of our recent developments. It also appears that I'm averaging a post a month. That may be good or bad depending on if you enjoy reading my blabber. One of my goals as I get used to this motherhood stuff will be to write more, but everything is baby steps. I just recently started running again and that too requires baby steps.

Like Eli, Scott and I are growing into this parenthood stuff too. Baby steps!

What we've learned in two months

2009-03-10T14:21:00.002-04:00

Eli is coming up on two months this Saturday. A whole two months. So if someone were to ask me what I've learned in two months or how life has changed I would tell them a few things.

One, I wouldn't say that Eli has dramatically changed our life he has just been welcomed and Incorporated into it. I hope that doesn't sound too bad. Like now for instance, I just walked to the post off with him in the baby carrier attached to my chest. A sure fire way to make him sleep...longer. And to continue that sleep, I haven't removed him from my chest, but I'm also rocking back and forth in my chair. Within days, we had ventured out to stores and to friends houses with Eli. They were all amazed that we were there. I've concluded that so long as the people in our circle of friends can listen to a crying child (4:30 and after) or mind a bare breast poking out at random, then we'll be there. Obviously no one has been traumatized by either and if they were, we probably wouldn't be friends with them.

Two, REM sleep can be entered into quickly if you can handle a few over night feedings and your baby goes right back to sleep. I've managed to continue my absurd dreams throughout these first two months. A feat that I don't think most parents can boast. I don't like to brag about that one freely, only when people comment on the possible lack of sleep.

Three, Eli is notorious for squirting in a new diaper within minutes of being changed. I recall one night when I changed him in the wee hours of the morning and he let out a juicy toot onto his clean diaper before I even closed him into it. Since no one was looking...I wiped off the little splats and buttoned him in. I'm only coming clean now.

Four, time flies. I say this because he is going to be two months old this Saturday but also because when he goes on adventures with daddy...that time flies too. And when he naps...that flies too. Luckily, he falls to sleep in his swing for an hour or more in the mornings so you can usually count on getting something done. Some days I get everything accomplished that I set out to do and I'm left wondering what to do next. As if there isn't a list a mile long that I couldn't re-visit and concur.

Five, sometimes Scott is right. I leave this one towards the end so hopefully you all won't get to it. A few weeks ago Scott said..."Erin, go and get a swing." I was dragging my feet on this one mostly because the swings are monstrous. Well not really that big, but at 4 feet high and 2 feet wide, you have to have some place to keep the darned thing. And it isn't exactly portable. Well, I caved and got one. He was right. That swing is what keeps Eli sleeping for so long in the mornings.

Six, crying is ok. Within two weeks of his precious arrival, we met a witching hour. Somewhere between 4:30 and 5:30pm every day, Eli enters a time when he has been completely spent from his busy day of sleeping, soiling diapers, and smiling or studying the world around him....Oh and eating. Can't forget that one. During this time he goes into an inconsolable crying fit where he acts out the word pathetic. He has even crafted a very cute lower lip curl to go with it. I can't help but laugh at him. Yes, at him. At first, we tried holding him because...well what else were we supposed to do. Within two days of holding not working, we decided that crying was his only option and he would do that in his room, without us. So Scott and I deposit him in his cradle, shut the door, and have a little time to ourselves (5-10 minutes at a time). It usually takes him two cycles (5-10 minutes of crying, a burp, and a cuddle) before he gives in and heads off to dream land. If there is one thing that he doesn't get from his mom, it is this reluctance to sleep. This night time ritual is apparently common at this stage and it isn't until later (3/4 months that they stop). I hope so, because I really look forward to reading to him and having that be his night time ritual.

Seven, be lite on the gassy and spicy foods. So my favorite veggie...Broccoli and I love spicy foods. Not 5 alarm fire spicy foods, but curry or wasabi or salsa. The second night Eli was in our life, I dined on Salmon and Broccoli (still in the hospital). Yes, a veggie that doesn't necessarily cause gas in me can apparently cause gas in him. So I've been light on the gassy foods since then. Man I miss eating a heaping pile of broccoli. And Curry. I guess word has travelled quickly about my adventures in stuffing myself with curry. Eli, doesn't like it as much well at least not yet. Lets hope he changes his mind on this one so he and I can visit the curry huts together.

Eight, sing and make ryhmes to make things interesting. Today, I told Eli that we haven't sung a few songs in a while. Like..."Touch the magic button and it toots toots toots". That one is a favorite of mine. And then theres "Mommy, mommy, milk machine. She makes milk for me." Another classic one lined song that I think is hysterical. For those of you who know me and my imagination, I also write songs. About nothing. I hope he enjoys them as much as I do and will come to have as warped a sense of humor as Scott and I.

Nine, never tell them that you can't wait for them to do something. I can wait for him to do things. Otherwise, I'll just be rushing his growing up and before I know it, Eli will be a teenager and bringing home some hot young thing that I'll have to grill to be sure she is good enough for my little boy.

Ten, they become number one very quickly. Scott often jokes that he is now second fiddle. Both of my boys are important to me in different ways. But I will also say that as much as I am in love with Eli, Scott is too. You should see the visable disappointment when Scott has rushed home from work to see Eli only to find that he is sleeping. Luckily for me and Scott, the boys now have their time in the morning together. Eli wakes between 5:30 and 6:30am and Scott will get up with him and feed him and they have man time. Eli is at his best in the morning. And smiles...he has an awesome smile.

So these are just ten things I've learned in two months. Well, these are the ten that I can remember because I'm sure there are a ton more. Stay tuned for the 2 month picture with the shrinking elephant!

By the way, I'm still rocking back and forth. Oh wait, there could be an eye opening coming.

Eli is sleeping

2009-03-05T11:05:00.002-05:00

Eli has been sleeping since 9:00am. HOLY CRAP. I've paid some bills, talked to some friends, wrote a letter for the town clerk, printed some pictures, managed a shower and brushing my teeth, ate breakfast (he was awake at that point), and done some other random things.

He is finally stirring. Well, my days at home are numbered and I'm just going to miss all of this time with him. To think that I'll actually have to use my brain in an intellectual way is something I can't even fathom at this point. And I'll have to remember. Thank god that make note pads and pens.

As for an update on Eli...he is doing very well. He has moments, but they are pretty predictable. This week, he visited Scott at work, went on a car ride to go to sleep, visited the insurance company, and today our plan is to go visit a friend to return a scarf. Although we might save today's errand for tomorrow seeing as he was hoping to go for a walk. Maybe we'll do that while we visit our friend. Who knows, he may get outside and find it to be too cold for a walk and settle for his nice warm room where he can work on his neck muscles. He likes that like a hole in the head.

One Day at a Time

2009-02-11T20:17:00.002-05:00

A whole four weeks today. A WHOLE FOUR WEEKS. Where did it go? Four weeks ago today/Wednesday, at 6:04am, we welcomed Eli Timothy McEnaney into life outside the womb. After 40 cozy weeks, Eli arrived on one of the coldest days of the winter season. Silly devil. Hopefully this will only result in him being a hardy boy who enjoys the outdoors....even the cold.

I can recall taking our steps towards the exit the day we left the hospital. It was hard to leave our cocoon that we came to enjoy after three days in the hospital. I had a pretty good lump in my throat, mostly from complete fear of what we were about to start doing...being parents. It seemed as though the whole parent thing didn't really set in until we started our trek to our car and then to our house. After all, we had these great people looking after us and Eli while in the hospital.

A few days into this parenthood stuff, I remember thinking how AWESOME it was to give birth and to have this person in my life. I wouldn't change one thing about Eli's arrival. And I would do it all over again. What is hard to believe about all of this, is that it has been four weeks today that he was born.

Now the title of this entry is one day at a time and it isn't why you might think. Yes, we take each day as a new one and you don't really know what tricks he is going to pull on us today or tomorrow. Really what this is about is that Eli has taught me about one day at a time. I don't want to rush him and say "I can't wait for him to do this and that". In fact I don't even like to think of him growing even by an ounce.

Just last night Eli smiled at me. I really think he knew what he was doing too. It just brought be to tears. And all he had to do was Smile. Admittedly, this isn't the first time that he has smiled. Last week, Scott said good bye to the two of us and when he leaned over to kiss him good bye, Eli smiled at him. And this week...he smiled at me...a few times. What a joy.

Early on in this parenthood thing I questioned how parenthood was rewarding. Mostly because up until that point, Eli's day consisted of eating, sleeping, and soiling a diaper. It still consists of this, but each day a new bit of goodness comes out of him. Whether he makes an adorable noise (I even like it when he cries) or he follows my face and reacts to it, I love every minute of it.

So what I've learned so far is that a child kind of reminds me to take it each day and moment at a time. I will never have another first smile or first laugh because there is only one first.

Thank you to Eli for sharing his firsts with us.

Cheese cake and Ice Cream = 8 lbs. 10 oz.

2009-01-28T16:20:00.005-05:00

**DUH..note the original post was listed at 8lbs. 9 oz. Yes...he actually weighed 8lbs. 10 oz.

SO it has been nearly two weeks since welcoming little Eli T. McEnaney into this world. What a rush. You all have heard the gory details of labor and delivery. I'll add my one recommendation for getting things started...Snow Shoeing. That will get things going.

I can now understand why women and families opt to video tape their birth. At this point, I have what is in my memory and I'll promise you that I will forget details by the time he reaches 30. (Scary thought). I will say that I couldn't have possibly asked for a better group of people to be a part of my birthing experience. Even Eli helped to get himself out of there. Scott was the most amazing person/team mate in the world. Just when I thought of just resting he would push me again as he knew that I had the guts and strength to do it, even if I doubted myself. Despite the fact that he was technically a little off his due date, I am appreciative of the fact that he came at 6:04am. I was an early baby..not sure about Scott...and I always enjoyed the mornings and breakfast is one of my most favorite meals of the day. I credit that to being born at 8:00am.

So what now, today I didn't muster up a shower and I didn't even brush my teeth. We focused more on catching up on some sleep as he had a bit of a rough go of it last night and wasn't into sleeping. Scott has proclaimed I can no longer eat beef stew. Eli wouldn't stop eating last night. I did manage to bake chocolate chip cookies today. Strange I opted for that over a shower, but I can shower tomorrow.

After leaving the hospital almost two weeks ago, I often wonder if they'll let me back in. Those ladies were awesome. They took such good care of Eli and us and although I wasn't at 100% while in there, they made you feel like yourself and just kept your spirits up. What an awesome group of nurses and doctors. The scariest part of giving birth was probably going home to start your life with this little person. Holy Crap! Last Wednesday, Scott said...Babe, as of today we've been doing this a whole week and as of Friday, we've been doing it a whole week by ourselves. WHOA. To think I've got the rest of my life with this little person. Each Friday might become a bit of celebration as we complete another week of his life without traumatizing him for life.

So my grace period is reaching its end. I finished the cookies, but he is now waking up so I'll have to finish up this post, mostly about nothing. But perhaps it is about surviving almost two weeks on our own. I would love to hear about other stories of parenting to make us feel better, because according to Grammy Potter he is an easy baby. To date, we've only called the Dr. once about some things he is doing that turns out are completely normal. Strange that we would have moments of nervous parenting as new parents.

One thing I do miss is spending cuddle time with the dogs. Scott has taken on that role right now, but I miss having a cuddle with Diesel or Ghillie. They are handling things quite well so far, but we're trying to make efforts to make them feel special.

Well, here is to a post about really nothing at all..just random thoughts and absolutely nothing to do with the title. All I have to say about 8 lbs. 9 oz. is yeah...I did that. And I would do it all over again.

Cheese cake and Ice Cream = 8 lbs. 9 oz.

2009-01-28T16:20:00.001-05:00

ZZZzzzzz

2009-01-04T07:41:00.002-05:00

WAKE UP. That is what I do about 4 times per night. It usually isn't pleasant either. It happens suddenly and for about 5 seconds I lay there wondering what woke me up. Did Scott stir? Is someone in the house? Did my water break? Did the baby do that? From what I can tell it is nothing more than I woke up. All part of the magical mystery of "training you for baby". After the five seconds is up, I manage to creep out of the bed to go to the bathroom. I don't exactly have the urge to go, but I figure I might as well make the most of my time awake. I'm sure there is something in there.

Lets go back to the creeping out of bed part. Basically, when I sleep it is like my muscles all attempt to go back to a somewhat normal state and it HURTS. If someone watched me rolling off the bed (yes that is the most effective and least painful way), they would probably think I was a 100 lb sac of potatoes trying to work their way through the produce isle to be sold. After I stand up, I have to give my body a minute to adjust itself because that stupid nerve is now bugging me from both sides of my A$$ and it hurts to walk. I call that my 10 seconds of feeling 1 million years old. Then I manage to force a step, because the walking actually helps the pain in both sides of my A$$.

For the past several months, the cats have been diligently at their posts in the bathroom listening to the mice in the floor. So after I roll my sac of potatoes out of bed and manage three 1 million year old steps, I'm greeted by two wacko cats staring at the bathtub. This whole thing is strange. Side note: As for the mice in the bathroom, we're currently conquering the basement (I'm sure they're all related) and so far we're down 2. But these mice I'm sure produce babies like rabbits (boy I'd like to give those mothers a piece of my mind) and they come out sooner than we "catch" them.

Dreaming has increased too. First I'll remind most of you that I love to sleep. That can come in the form of overnight, but my most favorite is a nap. I don't normally dream when I'm napping. But I've got a great history of dreaming during those 8 hours over night. For months during the pregnancy, I have been on a dream diet. I had great dreams before and then nothing at all. At least I haven't been remembering any of them. Recently, though, things have picked back up. I've had multiple dreams about being in the hospital and being in the labor process. I'd say this is due mostly to my growing anticipation about mid January. Some are worth sharing with everyone because they're good and some are not worth sharing with people who have a weak stomach. Yeah..those are the more crazy ones and I can't begin to think where I came up with some of that stuff.

After all these disturbances at night, I'm so thankful of Scott. On new years day, I took two naps. One at about 9:00am and one at 1:00pm-ish. Yesterday, I took another after a REALLY bad night sleep. Scott has never ever given me any grief for my napping habits. He is especially good about it now. Mostly because I cry when I tell him how tired I am. I've been having a bit of the pity party lately and he listens. I'll admit to being completely ridiculous, but he is excellent at saying "you're beautiful"or "why don't you take a nap with the dogs" or "why don't you go do something by yourself". I'd also say the smile on his face when he walks into a room and sees this HUGE belly (well huge for me) is something to remember too. I'm guessing most times he does this, I don't see the smile. But I'll catch him every once in a while and smile back. Usually with some bit of sarcasm.

Well, here is to never really getting a good nights sleep. I think it is a bit cruel to train a woman like this. You think mother nature would give you a reprieve just before you're about to never sleep again. But, last night I think I only woke up twice and I'll take that. ANY DAY! At least I'm a good napper. Please don't take that from me.

Twas the night before...

2008-12-24T06:10:00.002-05:00

SO, today I'm supposed to have a baby. Don't get your hopes up, but with 3 weeks to go, the thought crosses my mind just about every night that I go to bed. On Monday, a co-worker said to me "Erin, I think you're going to have it on Christmas Eve". I told her that wasn't going to happen and there are no indications that would prove her point, unless I have an incredibly high tolerance for pain and have been giggling off any real contractions. The funny thing was, she saw me yesterday and said "Good luck tomorrow." What a jokester. That is a funny story that I can't help but enjoy repeating.

The fact is, the distance between my belly and my breasts is slowly increasing. I don't really notice it on the other end. No pressure down there or sensation of a grapefruit. I just notice a basketball sitting on my lap. However, given the fact that I'm growing more may explain the basketball on my lap theory and not actually be the drop. I will say that being the little devil is head down, it can be somewhat debilitating to feel its head smushing into my bladder. Like...enough to make you stop walking because it is such a sharp and sudden sensation. My other favorite sensation is when I get feet sticking out on my left and a bum sticking out on my right. It is going in two places at once. I think it is just about getting crammed for space at this point.

So with 19 days until due date, I tease myself with thoughts that I won't make it. Then I remember that once it is out, you can't ever put it back in. I shared the earlier story with Scott yesterday, and he said that I would have it next week. I keep telling him to stop getting my hopes up.

For all of you who are also losing a bit of sleep over this, I'll share that as of right now there are no indicators that a birth will be happening soon. I do go for another Dr. visit today. About the only update I'll give you from that is my remarkable weight gain and the baby's heart rate.

Have a Merry Christmas everyone!!

Diapers and Wipes

2008-11-29T17:31:00.003-05:00

Today I headed off to the fine city of Albany to get a few things, Christmas shop, etc. Stupid me forgot the cat food though so tonight is going to be tough as the cats will shortly begin to protest their empty or half empty bowls.

Anyway, I went to Target, BJ's, and Babies R' Us and did a little price comparison on diapers. Babies R' Us I kind of ruled out because I predicted they would be more pricey than, say, Target or BJ's. To be honest, I didn't write all of it down because I'm a nimrod and that would be the smart thing to do. I headed to BJ's where I expected the prices to be dirt cheap. After all, it is like meca for bulk goods. I scored a good deal on cereal, but the diapers weren't exactly as exciting and discounted as I was hoping for.

First off, BJ's doesn't carry a variety of newborn diapers and the sizing, I think, is more like hit or miss so you better hope your kid meets the weight capacity. After being less than impressed with the newborn diaper selection, I headed around the corner to Target to see what their offerings were. It was a little better, but I'm looking for bulk here people. In any case, I did a price comparison on pampers and huggies and found huggies to be the more expensive choice, hands down. When I say expensive that translates to $1 to $2 dollars more. I'm a cheap son of a gun now aren't I? HOWEVER, when you think of how many times this kid is going to poo and pee in a day, I'm going for the cheaper option at this point. I bought 92 diapers for the bargain price of $18.99. Considering the stories I've heard, this kid is going to go through that in roughly 9 days, so Pampers is on a 9 day trial period to see if I'm happy with their product.

How did I reach this decision? Well, I took more into account other than price. For this next part, I brought in a consultant....My Mom. Now Diapers have come a long way since changing my 30 year old butt, but seeing as she was home and I knew she would know what diapers Eric and Deena used, I figured this would be a good starting point. So I asked the question, "what do Eric and Deena use?" Huggies. Darned they sure are pricey, I thought to myself. Then I asked well, what if I buy this diaper and the baby turns out to be allergic to it? She asked if Scott or I had any known allergies to fabrics and I said no. Then she said it was pretty unlikely that the baby would so go with the cheaper option. You can always change your mind....after the 9 day trial period.

How did I get to the conclusion that there could be an allergy on its butt? Well, I read way too much about this crap. Basically, I've been researching diapers and if there is any one place that has better pricing. Not really, but in the mean time I managed to read about these mothers and babies whose diaper rash magically disappeared when they changed brands or something. OF COURSE, MY CHILD WILL SUFFER FROM THAT. Why wouldn't it?

So, I toned myself down a notch and just bought what I perceived to be the best deal. After all, if baby poos or pees 10 times a day, that translates to my 92 pack of diapers lasting 9 days, which means that we'll spend 65.32 for one month of this baby pooing and peeing. By the end of 2009, we'll have spent 783.84. That doesn't include tax.

How soon can you start potty training?

TURKEY DAY

2008-11-27T06:42:00.003-05:00

So, Turkeys come with a popper thing that pops when it is done right? So if humans come with a belly button and it pops out, does that mean they're done too? Well I guess for the people in this world who have full time outies, they would always be done...what would that mean? Darn it, I think this means that belly buttons have nothing to do with being done.

Happy Thanksgiving. Yesterday, I was in the grocery store (that is another story/paragraph) and I was picking up my groceries for today's meal (not much...just potatoes and some other stuff). At one point, next to the yogurt section, I began to think to myself what this holiday is all supposed to be about?

When I think Thanksgiving, I think VERY warm house (Gramma Potter's levels out at about 80 degrees. Thank god we are not going to go there, I would have to wear a bikini.) and food. That is the first place my mind goes. Not exactly the intent of the day. Now I believe there has been some hallmark added to this holiday to make us all think for one day what we would be thankful for. Ok, I'll say it, we should be thankful every day...cue inspirational and sappy music now. It is a true statement I suspect and I'm sure we all have moments the other 364 days of the year that we think how thankful we are for something. I look at Scott and my dogs and think that just about every day. But on this day, we've made a holiday to remind our selves to be thankful for something(s).

So back to the grocery store...
I was pushing my cart around and viewing all of the strange faces in the store. I recognized about 3 faces while there. And as I passed the yogurt section, after I realized I forgot my tomato way back in the fresh vegetable section, I had a moment where I thought...what is this all for again? OH...to be thankful. Then I could feel my head well up with pressure as if I was going to splurge out tears in the middle of Hannafords. I snapped out of it quickly because it would have been completely ridiculous for me to do this. Good thing I've got a protruding belly button to explain the complete emotional break down. I didn't want to go there though. Nothing worse than someone thinking or saying..."Oh, that it explains it, she's pregnant!" Poo on them for giving me an excuse of why I'm doing what I'm doing. What is there excuse? By the way, I don't know how I've handled this whole chivalry thing that happens when you are pregnant. I had to come to terms that I should be graceful and kind when someone does that because then I'd be labeled the cranky, ungrateful pregnant lady and they would all say..."she's cranky because of the hormones. Ohhhhh."

So if I could think of some things I'm thankful for today and every day, here is a short list. If I've left something off, well that is because it is 6:50 in the morning and I'm a tad groggy...I laid in bed between 3:00-4:00am with my mind thinking about life...Yeah...not thankful for my brain at 3:00am, by the way.

My thankful list:
Dewey, he is laying here in the desk while I write and he is trying to pretend that his eyes are closed.
Scott
Diesel and Ghillie
The roof over my head. It is a great house with its own set of quirks.
All of my family. Because they love us a ton and they show it by caring and asking and calling and all sorts of other ways...just being there.
Spending time with my family.
Having a family dinner. Any time of year.
Food in my belly
The person in side of my belly
Sweatpants and sweat shirts
My friends and their families. It is amazing how the families adopt you.
Being able to go outdoors and walk/run/breath fresh air
Living where I live
Being able to get to where I need to go...like my family and friends house
Flavored decaf coffee
My bed (it has got to be one of the coziest beds in the country)
My neighbors
People who express some form of chivalry regardless of your physical state. It should be a constant.

There are many other things that I'm thankful for, but the blog entry would be about a mile long. These are my top picks.

So happy thanksgiving. I know this really doesn't have anything to do with the turkey in my oven, but sometimes the conversation has to shift. I hope you all have a good turkey day and enjoy the company you are with, even it is just one other person. Please travel safely.

Voting History

2008-11-05T06:56:00.004-05:00

Yesterday morning I woke up in a completely giddy state of mind over election day. Throughout the day I checked the news sites to see if they had any early results, but was pretty disappointed that at 10:00am...they didn't. DUH. It was only 10:00am and 3/4 of the country was still in bed. I figured...well, New Hampshire voted at midnight...why doesn't everyone else?

My giddy feelings continued through the rest of my day and when the clock was nearing 5:00pm, I was just about coming out of my seat to get out of work and vote. Finally, I could pack up my stuff and head to the polls. As I drove the 15 minute drive to the Shaftsbury Fire House, I couldn't help but think of the situation. It is pretty amazing to reflect on the demographic of the presidential candidates...
The young man from Illinois who comes from bi-racial parenting.
Some old guy that is his cohort.
The other old guy that would be the oldest president, if elected
And the gun toting soccer mom. (I will say that it was never the moose hunting that concerned me with that lipstick wearing pit bull. I am married to a hunter after all!)

I, like the rest of the country, was probably just amazed that we had the people we had on our presidential ticket. Then there is all the seriousness of what they are going to do if elected president, well I'm not getting into that because that would take me weeks to write and it isn't as much fun.

What I also thought about on my way to the polls was that with my vote, I'm sure changing a situation for the little babes kicking in side. I felt in some way that this election and my vote mattered a little more and that I was teaching it something. Like it has any idea that what politics is or what I'm doing. (Although, now a day's there is heavy competition for space between the the baby, the placenta, and the umbilical cord..they are all negotiating their political powers). In any case, it was the bigger picture of what kind of world it would be entering into. After all, it could possibly be born on the day that the president elect is sworn into office...wouldn't that be SO COOL.

Following my vote, I headed home and then to a birthing class (hypno birthing...um..yeah...if this hypno birthing could work on my massive tooth ache I had yesterday, I can only hope that it will have some impact on childbirth. That is for another time), and then home to the doggies. When I got out of class at 9:00pm last night, the other parents to be in the class spoke about that we could all be leaving the hospital and entering a different world. I agreed and headed home to see what the latest news was. By that time, Obama had 200 electoral votes and I think McCain had 90. I went to bed, not feeling confident that Obama won, but just didn't want to sit through all of the political chatter about what is happening. They say the same things over and over anyway, like Americans are deaf and dumb and didn't hear it the first time.

This morning, I get to go in a little later than normal so I thought it would be fun to set the alarm for 6:30 instead of 5:50. Didn't work much as I woke up at 5:30. I tried laying there but between my roaring stomach, Ghillie's whining, and being punched and thrust around inside, I bit the bullet and rolled out of bed. I couldn't turn the TV on until I had my coffee, watered and fed the dogs, and my first breakfast was ready.

The moment of truth arrived and I finally worked up the courage to push the "on" button. A COMMERCIAL. Of course! And then there it was..the announcement of our new president. Well this morning, I don't feel like gloating nor do I think that I'm going to be wearing any pin saying I voted for him (well, because you don't know who I voted for) I do feel like America has overcome something greater than the last 8 years and our crappy economy and reputation. We voted in a black person. HOLY CRAP. Obviously, I didn't grow up in the 60's, but to think it was just over 40 years ago that black citizens were protesting to attend the same schools as whites...that isn't that long when you think about how long America has been around.

I can honestly say that I'm giddy this morning because I think that we finally overcame a pretty big feat and made a bit of a statement that the majority of us are ready to move into another era where we practice a bit of what we preach. As to the minority that didn't want a black man in office, I hope they'll come around. Because Baby McEnaney's life will be effected by it.

**I sound like a liberal communist in some way. I hope I got the point across and my facts were close to being right. After all, I did start writing this at 6:45am. Been dreaming about it all night though.

Happy Halloween

2008-10-25T07:59:00.000-04:00

In celebration of Halloween, I'll share a short story of freakish belly movements. I find this appropriate seeing as our poll just expired and you all had an opportunity to vote on what you think Baby McEnaney is doing in Utero. But first, the freakish and spooooooky tale.

It was a cold and dark October evening. Mostly cold because we don't turn the heat on. (WE DON'T LIKE OIL). I was sitting at the desk, much like I'm sitting here now, with only the lamp to light my key strokes.

At first it was a swish. I looked around. Then a thump. Heart pounding, I felt it again. ON BOTH SIDES OF MY BELLY. "Scoootttttttt", I howled. There was no answer. "Scottttt". Finally an answer. "What?". "Come here!", I demanded. "In a minute dear." (I added the dear for effect).

Scott came in the office to see me sitting at the desk with my shirt pulled up over my belly. "Watch!" He put his hand on my belly at first, and I said "NO, watch." Scott stood there with anticipation of what was going to happen. I sat there hoping that it would happen.

At first it was a nudge to the inside of my belly. THEN, like something was trying to get out or switch position, there was a FULL LIMB that moved across the side of my body. Scott jumped 3 feet from me in fear that it might reach out and suck him inside. (God I hope not, because that would be a lot to haul around).

Scott said that really freaked him out. I think he'll come back for more. I'll make him. Who wants to miss this stuff anyway?

So that is my Halloween tale.

Although there are 4 days left for you to vote on what baby Mc. is doing inside, early polls show that he/she is using the umbilical cord as a bat and is trying to mimic Dustin Pedroia. There is a tie between training for a marathon and wrestling with Ghillie and Diesel. I guess no one thinks this kiddo is going to be a trapeze artist. Phew.

Check the new poll to vote on what the Halloween costume should be.

The impossibility of looking ahead

2008-10-13T16:30:00.000-04:00

Early on in this process I would make proclamations about what I am going to do as a mother. I think it is only natural for a person to set some expectations and general rules when they are planning and preparing for babies arrival. We also get a lot of advice from people who have done this before. Don't get the wrong idea. It isn't that Scott or I don't appreciate the personal experiences of others that have gone through this before us, I think it is natural for one to think they know what they are talking about. And of course we do...we own dogs...and they have trained us and prepared us for being parents. I hear you all say...Yeah, right!

While I don't disagree with that last statement 100% (I do think they have helped and taught us a TON about being concerned for our "kids"), I do say that I've given up on my predictions for what it will be like. Fact is...I DON'T HAVE A DARNED CLUE. As someone recently shared with Scott about dogs (yes,...dog's again) a real dog owner is someone who knows that they are not all alike and they each need an individualized approach to training. I do believe, so do children. That is one thing...I do know.

On to the real topic. In the last 6 months, I've given up on the proclamations. I do stick by a few things that we are at least going to try:

1. Biodegradable/compostable Diapers (at least 80-90% of the time) (Check out gdiapers.com)
2. I will try to make my baby's food using a food mill and ice cube trays.
3. Baby will be carried around in a sling or back pack on turkey scouting trips and or hikes.
4. I'll be going back to work. Even though I know it will probably be one of the most difficult days of my life.

As for life with baby McEnaney, there is one area of my life that I'm sure will be an adjustment. How is it that I can possibly fit running back into my life after baby? It is all of 50 minutes of my day. There are PLENTY of women that I know who have managed to do this. Some of them have gone on to train for marathons while raising small children. I reckon I'm going to keep my sights a little more realistic at this point (remember, I gave up on the proclamations...at least the public ones)...(Until now). I've resolved to running in the Bennington Road Race in May 2009. Baby McEnaney will be approximately 5 months old at that point.

I guess why this race is such a goal for me is that it would mark 1 year since I "suspected" something bigger was going on in my body. Deena (my sister in law) also ran in the race and did really well. She has two kids under 5. I haven't been running throughout this whole process. I did a little bit, but once I backed off a week I didn't go back. I will say that I've been walking almost every day and sometimes up to 50 minutes (which...causes some pain in places that I don't care to share with you all). The most frustrating part of all this is that my legs don't feel it, but other parts do. So there is a big urge to actually run. Instead of running, I usually find the hilliest route possible as it feels AWESOME (I actually like it) to climb a hill. Plus, when you're at the top you usually get to go down and/or there is a really nice view.

When I would read all these silly books about babies development, I was particularly effected by the development of the ears. Having two hyper dogs (one of them being 6 months old), I found myself easily aggravated by their wrestling and bumping into my legs. I would try to comfort them out of the wrestling, but once in a while the holler would come out. Good practice for my kids, I guess. When I felt myself getting aggravated, I would either get Scott to yell or I would find another way to get them out of what they were doing. I resolved that babies first words were not going to be "No! Diesel" or "No! Ghillie" Gosh lets hope instead for Dad or Mom or Uncle Tim/Eric or Grammy or Grapefruit (that might be pushing it). Anything but "NO". I'll hear enough of that later in life.

The other part that effected me about baby having ears and hearing things, was that I found myself listening to a lot more "singable" music. Not always soothing, but something I could sing to. I hope to sing to it when it comes out. My most recent collection of CD's in the car (my studio) is Madonna. Deena and I went to Madonna this past Wednesday and it was AWESOME. I was a little concerned that the base of the music was going to injure it somehow, but I couldn't possibly bring myself to stand outside and listen. THIS IS MADONNA. Baby didn't react so much during, but it was quite active afterwards. Nothing out of the norm though. As the concert ended and we left our seats, I couldn't help but notice two, yes TWO, other very pregnant women. I figured, eh....I'm not the only wild pregnant lady here.

So here is to afterwards. When our life has been turned upside down by a small little person. With each kick, I get more excited. I can't wait to see what this person is going to be like. And here is to my short list of proclamations! I hope to complete them and I hope that you'll all kick me in the A$$ when I think I can't do it. Bottom line, I know I'll do some of them.

Grouse Season

2008-09-27T09:50:00.000-04:00

TODAY, is the first day of Grouse Season in Vermont. That marks a traditional event in the McEnaney household, which is between a boy, a dog, and a friend. The boy woke up this morning before the alarm clock, about 5:40am. I think it was mostly because I was shifting around too much and that made him wake and realize what happens today. In any case, Scott and Mark Tibbetts (the friend) were going to meet at 7:30am to start their grouse hunting adventure. Seeing as the weather was not looking promising, Scott figured an earlier start would beat a potentially threatening band of rain that he spotted on his Doppler radar. You know the Doppler radar that he can pull up on his phone at 5:45am. Don't you want a blackberry too? Now to the important stuff...

Today marks a bitter sweet day. Scott's first day hunting with Diesel-dog! For a few months now Diesel and Scott have formed a bond that is quite strong. Diesel has slowly realized that working with daddy is pretty darned cool and mommy is for fun, cuddles and primping. As opening day grew closer and my belly grew bigger, I got a little more nervous. This little black dog of mine was going to be hunting birds and charging through prickers. My experience with running dogs has been tainted by the mishaps that have happened (you all can recall Tucker's chest injury and the cyst that eventually popped after having surgery..he was with me for the causes of both of those injuries).

So...opening day of grouse season and my little, precious Diesel dog is out wiggling through the woods and sniffing birds. I'm so worried. I'm trying not to think about it. Luckily, Ghillie is here to distract me as he attempts to chew on the wood floor and then, like a smart dog, finds his Nyla bone and rolls around the floor like a child sucking on a bottle.
Just before Scott left this morning, he let the dogs charge up stairs. He came to my bedside and there in his hands was the decorative tin in which Tucker's remains are kept. He had some tears in his eyes...and then mine did too. After Tuck passed and we got his remains back, he promised to spread some of them in locations that were special to the two of them. So today, Scott is in good company...Diesel, Tucker, and Ollie (Mark's two year old Lab). These three dogs wrestled and played together like CRAZY and to this day, Ollie greets our car (with or without dogs) expecting to find his friends.

Dogs to this point have been our training for children. And I often argue that our dogs are so active and intense that they are just like a child. They don't exactly lay around much and if they do, they are either exhausted from a weekend day or on your lap. Either way, it is a rare occasion that they lay down and not be in their crates.

Ghillie is sitting here with me now. I always appreciate one on one time with either dog. They are just a tad more calm than usual and they focus more on your every move. He is sitting in the chair next to the desk. He is still a little clumsy, but a loving dog. Scott and I see a lot of similarities between Ghillie and Tucker, but we've proclaimed that he is his own dog. Ghillie has already showed signs of being birdie and I know before the season is out, the family (all four of us) will head to the woods together. Diesel will be charging through thickets and branches and Ghillie will be right in his steps. Just like last fall when Tucker was teaching Diesel the ropes.

I'm not sure what this has to do with Baby McEnaney, but I do know that the dogs are a big part of this little baby's life, already. I'm sure it can hear me yelling at them when they have gotten into something or each other. What is pretty amazing and scary is that this time next year, we'll have a baby during grouse season. I know that at that point I'll be wondering where the previous 9 months had gone. While the one month of Turkey season is an intense time for the house, I know at heart Scott enjoys grouse season much more. For three months, Scott heads to the woods with a four legged pal and has man time. I can't, although I try, compete with that. As he said the other day, Grouse season got a whole lot shorter when he realized that when the season is done in December, he'll be a dad in a few short weeks. So here is to the Tradition of grouse season. I hope to have an update as to the success of the day, or even more fun Scott can share a tale about how it went.

Naming a child...

2008-09-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

Most of you can appreciate the serious business behind naming a child. Whether it is a dog, a bird, a child, or a cat, there is a lot to consider. You don't want to screw this one up because you can potentially risk years of raised eyebrows. AND, more importantly, the child (whether two or four legged) risks harassment and name calling that may effect the child's self confidence.

For instance, I named a cat...KAT. When I share Kat's name with new people, I often face the raised eyebrow. The cat, gets looks too and I really think that this has impacted him.

What most don't know is that I got the name from the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's. Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn, named her cat "Kat" because she couldn't possibly name a cat something until the animal told her what the name should be. The cat in the movie has a striking resemblance to Kat. They are both yellow tabby cats. Only difference is there was some degree of inbreeding in my cat which makes him an interesting topic of conversation and an easy target for people. He is a little slow. Could it be from his name? I don't know. He never told me.

SO, I hate to bring politics into Baby McEnaney's life so soon, but this isn't so much politics as it is a fun piece for you to enjoy too. Click on the link below to visit the "What would you be named if Sarah Palin were your momma?" site. It is another blog, but I know you'll enjoy it. You can get your name translated. And if you have favorite names that you would like to call Baby McEnaney or your own child (two or four legged), place the name in the box and click and you'll see what the name would be translated to in the Palin family.

http://politsk.blogspot.com/2008/09/sarah_13.html

Some of you know that in addition to us not knowing what we are having, we are also not sharing names. Yes...to avoid the raised eyebrow and nicknames before baby McEnaney arrives. Besides, some of you have requested not to know. You can't tell one and not the rest...somewhere the secret will be leaked.

We are taking suggestions. If you would like to suggest your original name for Baby McEnaney, please go ahead and suggest. We can not guarantee that we'll take your advice!

What circus act is in utero?

2008-09-06T07:07:00.000-04:00

Lately Erin has been wondering if there is anything going on in side her growing waistline. Aside from theses subtle sensations to her bladder that serve as friendly reminders..."Oh you'll have to go again", there really aren't these popcorn sensations or butterflies that you read about. Those were suspected a few weeks ago (about 4-5) and then quiet. Luckily the ultrasound and heart rate monitor at the last doctor's visit confirmed that things were fine. Since then....Quiet.

After a short work week, she was upstairs catching some quiet time from the dogs and day and suddenly....a thump. Then another...and another...and another...and another. "Scoooootttt". Since he was in the middle of a cooking extravaganza out on the back porch, she took the kick show on the road, grabbed the reclining outdoor chair and plopped her self on the back porch for Scott. It got a little quiet at that point.

Just before bedtime, she could feel the little mover and shaker in there boxing around. Then bedtime. Scott quickly went off to dream land even before his head hit the pillow. Erin, the usual reader before bedtime, took to reading the weekly news columns.

If any of you are familiar with the Race for the Cure, you'll probably know that the tee shirt typically has an image of a running character on the front of it..usually in pink and some other color. Now close your eyes and imagine that the legs on the running characters start moving, almost as if they are running in their own version of Race for the Cure. Only this time, it isn't your movement that is giving this image because you're lyeing flat on your back. Yes, 'tis the movement from inside that is the culprit. The shirt practically jumped off my body running this imaginary race.

Erin tried to get Scott to come back to life, but with little success. Only until this morning when the dogs starting singing the Shaftsbury Opera #9, did he have a second opportunity. He asked, "What is this kid doing in there?" Which is where we ask the question....Can you guess what Baby McEnaney is dreaming or imagining? If you're not into commenting on the post, look to the column on the right to vote which activity Baby Mc. is doing.

Boy? Girl? January 1 or 20? 6lbs or 7? You pick

2008-08-28T16:22:00.001-04:00

All of you have been itching at your desks to get in on this action. If you haven't already made up your mind, you will have to start thinking long and hard about what is growing in Erin's belly. And...it is growing. Last measurement of my adjusting waistline...32 inches. Scott....is at 34 inches. Do you think it could be possible that she'll surpass him? I would say so!

SO, here starts another great challenge. Sound the trumpets....The Baby McEnaney Sex, Weight, and Birthday contest has officially begun. To streamline things a bit and to bring this challenge into the new millenium, we've opted for a blog. Yeah, a few years ago I too thought that these blog things were some hidden area of the universe. Consider yourself in the know!

Also, to prove that there is officially a baby growing inside, we've included the ultrasound pics. The top one is the face (for you ultrasound image challenged individuals). The bottom one is the cute little feet that we'll be obsessing over in a few short months.

It has been requested that we include "pertinent information" by the Uncles to be. Here goes:
Starting weight (strictly a guess or what is on my license as a default): 110 lbs.
Last recorded weight: 123 lbs.
Estimated date of conception: On a need to know basis and, frankly, you don't need to know!
Estimated due date: January 13, 2009
Adjusted: No adjusted due date as of yet. Ultrasound tech estimated January 5.
Did Erin and Scott arrive on time?: Erin...was a scheduled C-Section. Scott, considering he is always 10-15 minutes early for everything...take a guess.
When are entries due?: Entries are due by October 16 (Big Daddy McEnaney's 30th) and no later than 4:28:03pm.

We'll post often and as we can learn more about the blogging world, we'll also post some other fun stuff, but like you...we're new to this BLOG WORLD. Happy blogging you crazy blogger-ramas?

To post your vote, simply...Hit "Comment" just below. Please include your name, the gender, the weight, and the date of birth. More important information. Since seeing that the comments didn't default to show to everyone, you will also have to hit "Comment" to view all of the comments. Once submissions have been made, we'll do a post so everyone can view each other's submissions.