Controversial Reading: Baby Wise

It's the most controversial book since the Bible.

Ok, well, maybe not quite. From my knowledge people don't burn Baby Wise to prove a point. But if words were fire this book would be up in flames.

It's a book so many people swear by. In fact I've heard more moms say the principals of this book worked wonders for their child more than any other book. Even more so than the Dr. Sears whatevertheheck book. I've heard raves from "my baby is so happy now" to "It was a lifesaver." But I've also heard the other end of the spectrum-- THIS BOOK WILL KILL YOUR BABY.

Not an exact quote, but close.

I haven't read Baby Wise or any other baby books for that matter. I swear, the easiest way to make a bunch of money these days is to write a book about baby advice and BOOM! You're rich! I hate that there are so many books with so many contradicting facts and principals and just decided to skip the whole book thing and learn by trial and error.

Then I went back to work.

And my daughter stopped sleeping 5-6 hours and instead has gone back to waking up every 2 hours. And I am a zombie. And being a zombie with 45+ hours of work to do every week just isn't good. Especially when you're operating heavy machinery like cars, or breast pumps.

This has been going on for long enough. Long enough for me to know it's no longer a growth spurt, or a phase (well maybe it's a phase to some degree, but I'd rather it not continue for months). My grandmother told me that if there's something that's stressing you out either do something about it to fix it or get over it, but there's no use stressing or complaining about it. So I've decided I need to do SOMETHING.

What am I doing? We're sleeping in the guest bed in her room. She wakes up every two hours and it takes me awhile to go back to sleep. Sometimes she'll wake back up the moment I set her down and climb back into bed. When I first returned to work I fell asleep with her in bed with me and she nursed throughout the night. Before that she'd sleep 5-6 hours so I'm wondering if that formed some kind of habit, and on top of that, perhaps being in her room is waking her up. If she sleeps with me, I can't sleep. If she doesn't, I'm up every two hours and it takes me a good while to fall back asleep, so I'm at an impasse.

The past week and a half I've started a new bed time routine where we give her a bath, massage her, get her in her nighttime diaper, read her a story and feed her, but then I'm like 'What now?' I usually feed her until she's asleep then set her in her crib but I think putting her in her crib awake is the trick. So I tried that but then she cries and cries until you pick her up. Then I feed her again and... You get the idea.

I need to try something new to see if it helps. I'm not asking for a full eight hours of sleep. Heck, four hours straight at this point would be nice. It's effecting my work, and that's really not good. In fact, it's very, very bad. So bad that I had the worst live shot experience of my life last week but didn't dare pull the "but I have a 4-month-old who isn't sleeping yet" card. But maybe I should have, because I'm sorta on the you-know-what-list right now because of it. And one bad move takes ten good moves to make up for it. So by this time next year, if I'm lucky, I'll be out of the dog house.

My husband says it's not the end of the world if she goes to bed late and wakes up all night for the first year, but that's greatly because he isn't waking up with her, or going to work after a half-nights sleep.

So, I'm desperate. And I'm considering turning to this raved about/ cursed book for ideas and answers.

I've probably read an entire book worth of facts on why I should stay away from the book--given to me by people who haven't read the book themselves, but hate it anyway. So I think it's only fair to read the actual book now, with an open mind, to see the other side and form my own opinions of it.

I know the book is about schedules and many are against schedules but truth is, sooner or later my daughter will be starting childcare and the only way someone watching multiple kids can accomplish things I'm sure, is to have some sort of plan. It doesn't mean I'm going to take the advice as scripture, or put Lil' J on a strict eating routine we can't deter from and starve her in the process. It's just that we're going to try something new. Because what we're doing now aint working out. At least not for me. And considering the fact that I provide the food and shelter for all of us right now, I think my opinion rules.

Some people are ok with having their children sleep with them, or wake up through the night for over a year, but I'd rather find out whats working for the other set of the population who have children don't need that.

I know this may just be a time in life where I have to survive with lack of sleep, but I can't just go along with that not knowing if I can do something else that can make this situation better for us all.

Besides, I'm pretty sure Lil' J would be happier with a happy, healthier, well rested mommy.

I just bought the book on Ebay for 99 cents. If it sucks I'll tell you about it. Then burn it.

Any other books you recommend while I'm at it? A friend from work with her second baby, also a 4-month-old said baby 411 has lots of tips and different routines to try. I think I'll buy that one too.

I Will NOT Pick My Kid's Nose!

You know how there are some things that people say "I'll NEVER do this... or that..." I'm sure we do that the most when it comes to planning for future children. We start when we're young.

"No mom, I'm not going to spank my kids"... "I'm going to let my kids eat all of the candy they want!"

Sure sure. Then when we get older, we make plans and say things like "I'm not going to get the epidural" or "I'm not going to force my kid to play such and such sport" or even something like "I'm not using those leash-things on my kid, " (I'm not).

Well, I try REALLY hard not to do that (often), but there's ONE thing I think I won't, can't/ WILL NOT be able to do.. And that's pick/ wipe/ TOUCH my kid's boogers with my BARE HANDS!

I've actually been meaning to write about my odd disgust since reading this post by my friend Mallory. I'm amazed by how moms can do this! Not that there is anything wrong with it. I commend you! Really! She shares a story of wiping a booger from her kid's nose and putting it... Well, you'll have to read it to see. I LOVE the story because it's so funny and I can just picture it happening, but I can't see myself grabbing that booger!! I'm not calling moms who do that gross... My mom did it to me... it grossed me out when she was doing it. It's just. not. me!

I don't have a problem with poop... Even puke I'm ok with (even more so that spit actually) but I HATE snot and I HATE boogers!!

Everyone keeps telling me it's normal, and say things like "Well, you wouldn't just leave it there!" Ok.. No, maybe I wouldn't. But if I didn't have a tissue I would. Maybe I'll be sure to ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS have tissues.

I can't even stick my fingers in my own nose, much less someone else's!

I worked in daycare for YEARS, and yes, I had to wipe snotty noses... But you'd better believe there were about 5 layers of tissue between my hand and their drippy face. And I honestly don't think it'll be much different for my own child.

I'm not going to swear I'll never do it, but I will put it on my list of things I doubt you'll catch me doing. In fact... I already have a plan in tact. My first child Snoop... He's going to help me.

If I'm ever in the predicament where there's a loose booger and/or snot and no tissue near by, Snoop will have to do the honors of licking it clean for me.

And if we're out in public away from my furry hero... My poor kid may just have to stay crusty booger-faced until we get to a stack of moist towelettes.

And for those of you who are making bets already... Tell me, did you think you'd pick boogers with your bare hands BEFORE having kids? Or was that a new found bravery once you had your first child?

The Train (Wreck) of Thought

I remember when I was in high school someone telling me men think about sex every seven seconds. I never really understood how that could be possible. I mean, what exactly would that thought process be like?

Dude example #1: "Hi! nice to meet you, my name is Jeff..." 'And girl, you are looking SO FLY in those jeans, if we weren't in public I'd...'

Or maybe it's not always as blatant, but just triggered by things. I mean, women aren't around ALL the time!
Dude example #2: 'Now the mathematic equation of Y over SEX... X...'

Or perhaps it's an obvious word that triggers it the most.
Dude example #3: "Sure mom, I'll run to the store and pick up some chicken breasts"...'Breasts, oooh, boobs boobs boobs!!'

Who knows?

Maybe they (who? I don't know, the people who take the time to calculate this stuff) averaged it out and came to the conclusion of seven seconds. Because I can't imagine a guy at a strip club, then a priest thinking about sex the same about of time.

...Either here nor there, I think I'm starting to get it. No... Really understand where they're coming from. That having your train of thought jolted every few moments to one particular subject over and over isn't exactly fun. But for me, the process goes more like this:

Example #1: At the mall
"Ooh, these jeans look good on me, and they're on SALE!" 'YESSSS! ...But will I be able to still fit in them after I have a baby? ...Baby, I want one!'

Example #2: At home, when random pregnancy facts strike!
'Ok, so I've gotta get ready for work. Alright, first I'll hurry and brush my teeth again... And floss, that'll help prevent gum diseases... Diseases like Periodontal disease... Periodontal disease can cause premature birth.... Better floss extra good'

Example #3: At work when I get the fever.
"I love your outfit!" 'Oooh and her shoes are cute too. But I hate shoes, they never have my size.. Are my feet seriously going to get bigger when I'm pregnant?!?... Pregnant, aww!'

So needless to say, babies are almost always on my mind right now. I started this blog to help diffuse the baby steam in my brain. Little did I know after posting nearly every day for eight months I'd still have lots to talk about. Baby Makin(g) Machine has always been my place to dump that all out. But I didn't know that even here, it could become overload... At least for the 5/11 people who have responded so far on my poll. So, when I'm thinking about other interesting things besides babies, pregnancy and getting pregnant. I'll consider writing about it. Maybe getting my new DSLR will help.

How does that sound?

Photo by NY Times

The Fabulous Nurseries!

I love to dream. Especially about expensive baby decor. Ok... Not really. Actually after this incident, I'm pretty sure we'll be getting all of the furniture for first baby's room off of Craigslist.

I don't mind though. I'd rather make things myself... I think.

But Danielle invited me to not only participate, but HOST her Fabulous Friday over on her blog: Now That's Just Fabulous.

The topic... None other than "Fabulous Nurseries." So I decided to play a game. I pretended like I was given a gajillion dollars to plan a nursery of my dreams. The one above is just one example (of like 10 on my guest post).

Believe it or not I didn't go over the top with my choices. I guess I'm kind of a Plain Jane kind of girl. ..Ok not really that either. I don't know how to describe my taste. But if you're been dying to know know my visions of baby decor head on over. Let me know what you think of my choices, and play along too! Pretend you got a gajillion dollars and share your favorite finds! Let me know the link so I can come see! Plus, I need more ideas (so what if it could be more than a year away!)

The 400th Follower Giveaway Part 5

My vacation is still going well! A big thanks to those who have been asking. I know my husband is wishing I didn't bring my computer right about now, and I'm surprised with how much work goes into writing all of these features! Yikes! ...But it's fun, and I'm so happy to see you're all enjoying it!

Before you get all sad thinking this is the last giveaway I'm holding... Hold your tears... I've decided I'm going to do one more after this... This evening, another LIVE giveaway! The last one was so fun and I was expecting it to last a week or so and so many people missed it cause it went so fast! SO... I'm planning on doing another LIVE GIVEAWAY tonight at 7pm MST. ...Be there (here) or be square!... Although my giveaways are open to enter through next week tonight will be the finale of me posting them!

I'm still trying to round up a few more sponsors for it to end with a BANG, but I also wanted to do one more traditional giveaway for those of you who are traditional. So, on to the tradition...

Learning is fun right?--Sure, but making it a game can make it REAL fun.
23. That's exactly what Emily at Second Story Window has in mind when she's creating games for kids. They are teachers designing unique, colorful, and exciting activities for teachers, parents, homeschoolers, and most importantly, kids. All of their games are in the form of PDF files which makes it wonderful because you can get it right away! I browsed through her site and spotted this cute rhyming game to play cops and robbers... What kid wouldn't think that's a fun way to learn to rhyme? But there are LOTS more games! And the winner of this prize gets a $20 gift card to the shop! So check it out and let me know which games you'd pick!

Ok, I'm really trying not to be bias, and it could be my baby fever talking, but this next prize is SOOOOO cute!
24. You love little babies in Swaddles right? Oh man I know I do... They look like little baby burritos! Well, now you can make your own baby burrito at home (or help your friend make one) cause Loving Baby Inc. Is giving you the choice of your very own swaddle blanket!.. And let me tell you these are CUTE! Oh, and there's even some evidence that swaddling is good for babies.
The Perfect Swaddle!" Guaranteed to soothe your baby to sleep. This blanket is crafted from high-quality, luxurious 100% cotton flannel giving your baby a higher quality of life by providing a soothing, secure, comfortable and cozy environment. It promotes feelings of calm and relaxation, increasing the quality of sleep for both parent(s) and baby. It contour's baby's head, neck, shoulders and body for a secure, comfortable and long lasting wrap. Reduces crying and increases depth and length of sleep. Promotes "back to sleep" position reducing the risk of SIDS.
Sold yet? Enter away!

The next item up for grabs is something I SO wish I was winning, cause seriously I'm going to buy some...
25. Menstrual Beads from Doulahara's Etsy Shop. ...And before you look at me on the other side of the screen all strange (yes I get that reaction when people read the name of this prize) hear me out! Ever lose track of where you are in your cycle, want an easy way to remember when you're fertile so you DON'T do it on that day... or so you DO cause you wanna make a baby? Well, this is a unique and natural way to keep track! Here's how they work...
It's really simple! Every day, you move the charm over by one bead on the strand, beginning with the first day of your period.
-The strand of beads begins with one bead, that represents the day your period begins. There is a low likelihood of becoming pregnant on this day.
-The next 6 beads represent the infertile days of menstruation. There is a low likelihood of becoming pregnant on these days.
-The next 12 beads represent days when you are very likely to become pregnant if you have unprotected sex.
-The final 13 beads represent days when there is a low likelihood of becoming pregnant.
-In this final section of 13 beads, the 8th one represents the 26th day of your cycle--if your period ends before reaching this bead more than once in a year, you may not be a good candidate for this method of fertility awareness.
Note--These are set to work for women who have cycles between 26-32 days. So check out her site and let me know what other cool stuff you find!

And last but not least in my LAST "traditional" giveaway post for my 400th Follower Giveaway... Something for Jr.
26. I can't help but think of my puppy when I see things like these, but I'm so happy to know that chew-toy-like things don't go out of style just cause you have a human baby! Ok, I'm kidding, but really... I know from my younger siblings and working in daycare that teething can be a beast! Well, Krista from Discovery Toys is coming to the rescue with this prize-- A Yummy Teether. This prize with help your little one with those little pains coming through the gums! It's five teethers in one that will encourage sensory exploration as it soothes and comforts your teething tot. Stimulate baby's gums and ease the pressure that builds as teeth begin to appear. Five uniquely textured heads and light scent provide a range of sensations. 4" (10cm) long. Appropriate from Birth-Toddler.

So there you have it! Just leave a comment for your first entry! That's it!! No requirements, just leave one comment and you're in! BUT if you want something specific for one of these prizes let me know which color/style you like. Go ahead... Leave a separate comment for each choice, that'll up your odds! Here's other ways to up your odds:

You get extra entries by letting me know:

-*NEW* Tweet: "LIVE Giveaway tonight at 7pm MST on @babymakinmachin's blog! 25+ Prizes already! http://tinyurl.com/nzmfpn (Please RT)!"
-You subscribe to my blog
-Become a Facebook Fan for my blog
-You favor my blog on Technorati
-Vote for me on Top Baby Blogs (just click the link) and click my link again.. (It's a little too simple.)

-You Tweet/ Facebook about this contest (every day you tweet is an extra entry!) Please say: "Check out this 400th follower giveaway by @babymakinmachin 25+ prizes! http://tinyurl.com/nzmfpn (Please RT)!"

-You follow my blog (worth 2 entries so leave 2 comments)

-You share your favorite "mommy moment" post you wrote this month (2 entries) - please comment on the "mommy moment" post with your link then let me know you did it here!
-You post about this contest (2 entries)

-Leave a comment on one of my posts for Conceive Magazine (2 entries for each comment on a different post)
-Leave a comment on one of my posts for MyBrownBaby (2 entries for each comment on a different post)

-You have my blog button (3 entries, so leave 3 comments)

-Vote for my blog in the 2009 Bloggers Choice Awards (worth 5 entries! So leave 5 comments)

-Vote for my blog in the 2009 Black Weblog Awards (worth 5 entries!)

Again, Please leave a comment for each extra entry! That way you up your odds!

**I'm using Random.org to choose the winners. This contest closes midnight Friday July 17th**

The 400th Follower Giveaway Part 2

CLOSED

Well, Day 1 seems to be going well! One thing I forgot to mention is when all of these are ending. I haven't decided if it's going to be a week from now or two weeks from now. I'm thinking it'll be a week from now, cause I'll be out of town again in two weeks... So we'll see.

I hope you're having fun with this! I know I am... And this is really a fun way to thank you for all of the advice and encouragement you've given me... You ROCK! I'm hoping one of the days to have a LIVE giveaway, and the 5 or so items I give away that day will be given to random number commenter. The only thing is that goes better with comment moderation "on" and I'm visiting with family so I'm not sure I'll have much time to do that, we'll see! If I do do it, it'll probably be either Thursday or Friday... Just an FYI.

But on to day #2, which are mommy-themed items or gifts!:

Our first prize for you today...
6. Is "Baby's First Journal" from Lindsay at Glow Baby. It's an amazing idea... A comprehensive place for you to log your baby's schedule. You can track their eating, sleeping and diaper-changing schedules for your newborn. It's easy to use, and portable, and if you're one for a routine... This can help in developing that daily routine I often here is important for babies! And guess what? This is only the beginning for this company, Glow Baby will soon be launching a full suite of scheduling tools designed to help both parents of newborns and families simplify their lives. SO... if you're thinking of having a baby soon, or you have a friend who is.. This could be great for getting them started!

Lindsay has been kind enough to donate TWO of these journals. So check out her site, and let me know which color you'd like to win!

Speaking of just getting started... So is this giveaway. The next item we have for you..
7. A year subscription to JustAskBaby.com. Ever wonder what you baby is thinking or why he or she keeps crying? I know I wonder all the time what they're thinking when they're staring at me. Just Ask Baby's enlightening videos on babies' feelings will give you insight into your baby's social, emotional and intellectual development during their first year. Each video also gives you tools for good parenting to help you guide your child from milestone to milestone through their early childhood development.

This website is a unique website that let's parents see from a baby's perspective, and they say it's all based on science. You can also upload your own logs and milestones for your family to see! I've been browsing the site out myself, and you can get a free 15-day trial too. So if you like it, you're going to want to get the hook up with this giveaway! Let me know one interesting thing you saw on the site and you're in!

And if that isn't enough to get you excited, I have a few more things for you... Have a little girl, or a friend having one? Then listen up!
8. Heather from GeorgiaBlue's Etsy makes BEAUTIFUL little clippies for little girls. They don't slip. And trust me... She knows that works. She has a two year old and an eight year old herself, and both wear them. She says her two year old Georgia has some pretty fine hair but when she wears the clippies she looks so cute and they even stay in place!.. From what I hear that can be a challenge with some kids. her eight year old wears them too, to accent funky buns or she picks out sassy clippies to pull her hair to one side in. They are well made and all ends are heat sealed to prevent fraying. I looked at her site and couldn't pick out my favorites cause there are SO many.. But guess what? She's not going to limit you either! The winner gets a $25 gift certificate to her shop and can buy all the cute clippies they want! Check out her site and let me know which style or set you like in the comments section!

Still haven't had enough? This one is great if you have a little boy or girl or have a friend who's having one!...
9. This next prize is from Hippo Baby. With stuff you HAVE to have... No really, they have some CUTE stuff! The boutique offers unique, useful, & memorable gifts for Baby, Mom, & Daddy too. One thing I thought was cool was a chew-toy necklace that mom can wear... Now why didn't I think of that? But what I have for you is also cool.. and one of their newest items... A BandanaBib... That's right, your little guy OR gal is going to be eating in STYLE! I really like this striped one pictured but there are so many cute ones! So go check it out, and let me know which one you want!

This next prize is so adorable I literally can't stand it!...
10. A little giraffe-shaped rattle from Bundled's Etsy Shop. It's a sweet little giraffe rattles in bold prints make for tons of gentle fun for your little one. Soft cotton fabric bodies are easy for baby to grip, shake and chew. Little jingle bells on the inside and soft fabric loop ears and tail make for a "not to loud" distraction too! Mix and match with a Roll-Up or washcloth set for a perfect baby shower gift... Seriously, I kinda want to get one for Snoop. I'm SURE he'd love it! So... Have a baby or dog you want to get one of these for? Check out her site and let me know you're favorite color and if I draw your number it's YOURS!

And last but not least for today...
11. I don't know about you but sometimes I did wonder if there was a yummy way to make breast milk better. Well, HardierLime's Etsy Shop is here to hook you and your ladies up too if you know what I mean! One of you will be winning a small bag of Mother's Milk Enhancing Cookies. Oh, and I may have to chat with you about your reaction to this stuff too!.. It could make a fun post later. Heidi said her best friend had twin girls a few years ago and introduced her to the basic recipe for Lactation Cookies when she had her daughter last year. She says she's taken the general recipe and improved it, and has since made it many times. Everyone is different, but as an exclusive pumper, she says she's always seen good results after just a day of enjoying these delicious cookies.

Now you can make Lactation Cookies yourself with just a few extra ingredients you already have in your kitchen, without running all over town to find the specialized ingredients, spending a lot for the small amounts needed for the recipe or taking the time to measure everything out. It’s all in one mix, from her kitchen to yours!

So check it out and tell me which flavor you want so you can eat some yummy treats and get your baby some yummy milk!

So there you have it! Just leave a comment for your first entry! That's it!! No requirements, just leave one comment and you're in! BUT if you want something specific for one of these prizes let me know which color/style you like. Go ahead... Leave a separate comment for each choice, that'll up your odds! Here's other ways to up your odds:

You get extra entries by letting me know:

-You subscribe to my blog
-Become a Facebook Fan for my blog
-You favor my blog on Technorati
-Vote for me on Top Baby Blogs (just click the link)

-You Tweet/ Facebook about this contest (every day you tweet is an extra entry!) Please say: "Check out this 400th follower giveaway by @babymakinmachin 25+ prizes! http://tinyurl.com/nzmfpn (Please RT)!"

-You follow my blog (worth 2 entries so leave 2 comments)

-You share your favorite "mommy moment" post you wrote this month (2 entries)
-You post about this contest (2 entries)

-Leave a comment on one of my posts for Conceive Magazine (2 entries)
-Leave a comment on one of my posts for MyBrownBaby (2 entries)

-You have my blog button (3 entries, so leave 3 comments)

-Vote for my blog in the 2009 Bloggers Choice Awards (worth 5 entries! So leave 5 comments)

-Vote for my blog in the 2009 Black Weblog Awards (worth 5 entries!)

Again, Please leave a comment for each extra entry! That way you up your odds!

After typing all of this out I've decided each day of this contest will run exactly one week. So yesterday's will go until Monday July 13th at midnight, this one will end Tuesday July 14th at midnight and so on! Enter away and have fun! Tomorrow I'll be doing more fun giveaways for all women.. With or without babies! And if you missed yesterday's giveaway, just look below! Good luck!

**I'm using Random.org to choose the winners. This contest closes Tuesday July 14th**

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 Good Cause

When I first started noticing blogs I saw it as an interesting way to express oneself. Not necessarily to anyone in particular either. A lot of blogs I came across were for the purpose of self-expression, or a way to ventilate one's opinions on a particular topic or two that's crossed their mind.

I started this blog as a way to put down my feelings about taking on the next milestone in life. What was a journal and hobby has become a true joy an treasure. But what's better... I've met some of the most amazing people though blogging which I wouldn't have had the opportunity to come across otherwise.

I'm a journalist. And one of the things I pride myself in is doing stories that help and inspire people. Stories that move people to action. It's not me, but the people I meet and interview... The people in my stories that bring about the greater good in the world.

Just recently I've started to realize that same movement is visible... If not more so in the blogging realm. Never have I crossed paths with so many inspiration people trying to do good in such a short time span.

One example of this is with Danielle, the woman who re-designed my blog. She's offering her design services for free to a lucky donor who gives toward helping starving children in China.

You see... Due to limited resources, many government orphanages in China can’t afford to purchase formula powder. Instead, babies are given substitutes like sugar water or rice powder to ease their hunger pains. As many of you mothers know, these substitutes do not provide the nutrition a child needs, and the result is malnourishment, sickness, and underdevelopment.

I won't go into all of the details but I hope you'll consider going over here and donate what you can, no matter how small. One hundred percent of the money goes toward the New Day Foster Home's Formula Project! I'm going to give up one fast-food meal this week so I can chip in!... It'll be good for me, and these children. And hey... Your contribution could also get you a new free blog design!

Is it just me, or does like just seem so inspiring at times? I've always been a believer in the fact that people are good. And sometimes running into little things like this just go to show that! What other blogs/ people/ things inspire you? I love inspiration!!

The Way to Break the News

NO I'm not pregnant, I'm just getting prepared for that day which may come soon or one day far far from now I have no clue! Hey, that's what this blog is all about!

I know I threw out the topic before in this post of sharing baby makin' time (or TTC for some of you). It seemed like a lot of you didn't. I don't think I will either... It takes away the surprise you know? (But still... No, I'm not). But when the deed is done and you're with-spawn, when did you share the news?

I hear 3 months is the general guideline, just in case there's a loss. I can understand that, but at the same time that's 3 months excitement out the door!

I guess it depends how open I am to disclosing the ups and downs of my pregnancy. I know people who told everyone (announcing on Facebook) the moment they found out!! I think I'll be somewhere in between. I want to keep it secret for as long as I can so we'd have time to soak it in. Then leak the news to parents and best friends, then maybe once I begin to get phat (yes I spelled it that way on purpose) I'll tell people I work with. Oh, and I don't think I'll be able to help but leak the news here on my blog right away either--Well, after family is informed... It's my diary for goodness sakes, I can't help it if people read it! (If you work with me you'll be sworn to secrecy) Hmm, what would you do if you were me? And what did you do?

Ok and next important matter to discuss... HOW to tell. I've always thought it would be cute to think of a cute way to tell my husband and our parents but I know if I don't think of it WAY in advance I'll just blurt it out... Which is ok too but I think it would be fun to do something cute.

I'm not sure if he'll be the type to count down to the test date and want to know right away... I imagine he'll forget and I'll be the one alone with my count downs and tests, which is a better set up for a surprise. And what better way to share such exciting news than with a surprise?!

I've heard a few cute things like setting little shoes next to his shoes on the side of the bed. Leaving the test out for him to find. Michelle wrote a whole post with cute ideas!

I already know how I want to tell our parents! I'm not sure if they read my blog... Pretty sure they don't for the most part so I'll share ok?(and if you are reading don't peek!)-- I want to have a normal phone conversation with them, then when we're hanging up say "bye grandma" and hang up, and see how long it takes for them to call back. I dunno, it's an idea I heard of awhile ago and I thought it would be cute.

But other than that I have no idea where to start for ideas, and I'm kind of scared to even research any right now cause I may get too giddy and I don't need giddy right now... I need serious, level headed! So help me out! What did you do? Or what do you plan to do? What's the cutest idea you've heard?! Let's stock up!!

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And the winner of the Cloth Diaper Giveaway brought to you by DiaperKits.com is Lucky number Carrie of Make it Count! Woohoo! Get me your information!

I also have not one or two but THREE more giveaways coming up! So stay tuned!! And if you have something you're interested in sponsoring here for a giveaway email me at babymakingmachine@gmail.com

The Adversary

Is that was it is telling me now may not be the right time, or is it from my head, or even the Good Guys? Other than that I know there are some quote unquote: Worldly-- Sources too.

Take Sex and the City for example (I watched the TBS version ok?) These four women are obviously all in different stages of life. One is a successful columnist, dating the same guy forever... They finally get married and she's like in her 40s. Another woman is a sex addict, doesn't even really want a serious relationship, much less a marriage and kids and nearing 50. Then there's the career-driven lawyer woman with a kid and so-so marriage and the happily married professional gone stay-at-home mom with a couple of kids.

I know it's a TV show ok? But in watching this show I thought how cool it was to see different women in completely different situations and being totally happy with where they were. All of them were in their mid 30s plus. AND they were living in New York City!! (I've gotta get there).

Then, last week I turn on Larry King. Beyonce is on (love the girl) and talking to him about being a newlywed and what not--How they keep their relationship private etc. (smart girl). Well what got me was when Larry King brought the question of kids to the table. She told him of course she wanted kids, but she's so young and has so much more she wants to accomplish first while she's young. She's only 27... Wow! That's 4 years older than me!

It's not that I can't accomplish things after having children but sometimes I think I've come so far so fast--What can I do with another few years?

Then I have days where I get on the phone with one of my best friends (the not yet pregnant one). We both get each other COMPLETELY on the topic of kids--Wanting them, husbands not, friends having them--Jealousy. Well lately her husband seems to be coming around and we were talking about that when I got on one of my rants about how after kids you can never go back.

I told her: "I love looking at cute little babies and toddlers with their families but then I think of what it'll be like 5 or ten years from then, we don't stare and adore those families at church right now, or the parents with teenagers. We just like the cute little babies, but what about when they grow up? We can't just go back to being married without kids. When even they move away then there's college and weddings and grand kids to worry about! It never ends!!"

After spilling my brains of the topic I constantly dwell over the only thing she could say was "That's true. I never thought of it that way." I was a little upset... She was suppose to disagree with me or tell me it didn't matter. But nope... "I never thought of it that way," was it.

I told the same thing to another friend who recently had a baby (who I happen to babysit and love--More on that coming later) and lucky for me he said "You say that all in 30 seconds but it happens in a span of over 20 years, it doesn't all come at you at once." Although an obviously observation, it calmed me a little. It's just weird to think I've lived just over 20 years myself and the next 20 could be dedicated to other people-- Selfishness gone. I'm not sure what I think of that.

The Talk

After my last post I really started to think... A lot. And the more I thought about it the more I talked about it, and the more I talked about it the more emotional I got. I'm not sure if my hormones are going haywire or if it's just me but my mind has shifted from thinking about "the urge" to thinking more seriously about the whole baby makin' thing. I'm looking more seriously at my baby bucket list thing now too because the time line which I pictured myself being able to complete it is quickly shrinking. That's right... You're eyes aren't betraying you, I think I really will need to start looking for one of those time lines with sperm swimming towards an egg. No, I'm not kidding if you find one let me know, I want it... Because I may be exchanging my remanding 2 years of birth control for something a little less effective. I'm not going to say when in case I change my mind tomorrow. But if I find that widget I keep talking about maybe I will. *smile* Ok, maybe not.

But I am excited, because now I feel like I have a date... A plan, and this whole parenting this is starting to feel less like an "us vs them" thing to me, and more like a reality. One thing that was left in the comments section that really struck me was "I think it's one of those things of when you're ready, you'll know," The Blond Duck said. "Kinda of like getting married. You want to be as sure as you were walking down the aisle."

That really struck home with me. Never have I been so sure about something in my life more than I'm sure of marrying my husband. I know there's a difference between being nervous and scared, and being unsure. I'm not feeling unsure, not this time--But that is scary.

Hmm, the more I think about it the more I think I may not tell you when it's baby makin' time because then there's no surprise! I like surprises! Plus, I think if I talk about it too much I'll either 1. Not be able to get pregnant for like 6 six years or 2. It will be LAME when I do, because it'll just be like "Finally... You've been talking about it forever!"

I will tell you it's not like tomorrow or anything... And if things don't take right away we'll be cool with that too. And hopefully I won't change my mind tomorrow.

Hmm, what do you think? Did you share your baby makin' timeline?

Oh, but I have to tell you a funny story but warning: it could be TMI.

When we were having this "Talk" hubby said "Well, we're going to have to start doing it more cause at this rate it would take us about eight years."

The Words Aren't Needed...

Oh the temptation! WARNING: Don't bring your babies to work unless you want me to plot ways to steal them!!

Things I'm Looking Forward to Pt1

The Nursery:
One thing I CAN'T WAIT to have is a nursery. I don't know why but I've always dreamed of having a decked out room for a little baby. I want a matching bedroom set with a really cute fancy crib, and a fun theme. I thought it would be easy to decide what kind of stuff I'd like but as I was Googling images to add here I realized how picky I am. One thing for sure... I'd NEVER be able to decorate on my own. I suck at matching things and I'll either have to choose a picture out of a magazine and order the complete package, or hire a designer. I think I have more of a sophisticated taste in design. I don't like a lot of frills or wallpaper design print stuff. I like stripes, argyle, and dark colored beds (using the word "crib" gives me the creeps unless it's regarding a house).

If I were to find something I like now, I'd choose something like this for a girl:
And for some reason right now I really like this hot air balloon room for a boy, although I think I'd rather do a sort of golf-related like the second one.
Of course in an ideal world I'd take one from the top and one from the bottom and squish them together in a room for twins...

Anyway, who knows what my taste will be like by the time I actually give birth?! Don't you love how I'm posting all this stuff about kids and I have no idea when I'll actually have one? I'm a weirdo, and obviously a tad bit bored.

The Surprise... Really?

Lately I'm addicted to Discovery Health and love watching crazy operation shows... So it's no surprise when I saw the title "I didn't know I was pregnant" I was all about TiVoing that!

Four different women, four surprising pregnancies (one of them was pregnant with twins!). None of the women knew they were pregnant until they were in labor...One of them didn't even know until after the baby was born in the toilet! They didn't have any symptoms of pregnancy... No cravings, negative pregnancy tests, not much or no weight gain. Must be nice eh? They all had different reasons for thinking they either couldn't get pregnant or surly weren't pregnant.

I've heard of things like this happening before but I wasn't sure if I really believed that could be possible--Not knowing for nine months? Ok, maybe if you're very large already, but a lot of these women weren't.

One of the ladies thought she was going through menopause. She had an 18 year old daughter that was about to go away to college. Next thing you know, one night she's got a stomach ache, she thinks she's dying and falls to the floor. Her husband gets a peek at her whooha and is like "Woah, we're having a baby!" She delivers it right then and there. By the time the paramedics get there the baby is out! Of course they took them both to the hospital to make sure they were OK.

The one question I had in my mind during this show was "Do they get some kind of hospital discount or something?" I mean, it's not like they had all of the perks of a normal delivery. Heck, the one lady did it all in the bathroom at home. That's gotta reduce the hospital fees.

Anyway, good news is all of the babies and mommies were ok. If you missed it and want to see more info go here.