A distracting evening. Hana is restless and demands playtime; she took the initiative and, unrequested, just delivered to me a brassiere from the master bedroom. So, a quick entry.
I've lately been giving considerable brain time to the rapid rise of the earth's population and the capacity of this planet to absorb it. Of course, there's been some media coverage recently of the relatively sudden jump in world food prices, covered in full by last week's Economist. And, as we'll be adding two humans to (this moment's) tally of 6,669,180,095, I feel like a slight accomplice in this dire situation. OK, I know, you're not here for a bulletin on the latest inconvenient truth, so I'll steer this post away from a depressing note and will replace it with one of interest: check out this world clock: http://www.poodwaddle.com/clocks2.htm. If you click on the "Now" button, the counter resets. Prepare to be astounded by the relentless progression of worldwide births! Eight months of sore backs and swollen ankles and a day of hell in the delivery room, yet come mid-June, A and B will just be an inconsequential half-second blip on that scoreboard. Where's the fanfare?
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
A Matter of Taste
Right now I'm watching the film Topkapi. This 1964 Peter Ustinov adventure comedy is one of my favorites. I could watch this one and fifty others repeatedly with no diminished delight. I wonder, though, will WT give one solid damn about Topkapi, or any of my other favorite movies, or any of my other favorite anythings? Surely my tastes are not replicated in my genes and will not be picked up instinctively by the next generation. It's a bit arrogant even to wish that they take after me, to predispose B to an interest in soccer and A to international affairs when they might care more for baseball and theater. But can I help it? Can any parent be so hands-off with their kids' upbringing that they don't subconsciously steer them towards their own preferences? The answer is no--you dip them in the Karl pool but let them get out when and where they please. You let them walk out on Topkapi during the climactic jewel heist scene, or even during the opening credits. (Actually I recommend this to everyone as the first 20 minutes are rather tedious). The lesson of this story is that I may have zero in common with my kids except the last name, the number of knees, and the desire to get into two different lines at the movies. But all that matters is that we're in the same car (or bus or train, someday, hopefully) on the way home.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Growing, Growing, Gone!
Kel is running out of oversized tees. Quickly. She's down to one: a white Orlando Sport and Social Club extra large, and even this one is beginning to inch up her stomach. This isn't a plea for help; it's a subtle update on the progress of WT. A week ago A and B were roughly 2.5 pounds each. So, if all goes well, they will double in size in eight weeks. Presumably this means that Kel will inflate to record proportions, can discard her remaining shirt and the giant blue shorts, and may even have trouble tying the ends of her bathrobe belt. Of course, we'll love her all the more and I won't spare hugs, provided I can reach her.
In 56 days, give or take the unexpected, my insensitive jabs will be no more than memories. (Forever preserved in the Archive section of this blog). All that extra weight will be transferred from beneath Kel's shirts to a crib, a stroller, and carseats. And part of that weight will be transferred to hundreds of diapers. Maybe we shouldn't be too eager to see A and B emerge. Let them stay in, where they're quiet, make no mess, and don't poke forks into electrical outlets.
In 56 days, give or take the unexpected, my insensitive jabs will be no more than memories. (Forever preserved in the Archive section of this blog). All that extra weight will be transferred from beneath Kel's shirts to a crib, a stroller, and carseats. And part of that weight will be transferred to hundreds of diapers. Maybe we shouldn't be too eager to see A and B emerge. Let them stay in, where they're quiet, make no mess, and don't poke forks into electrical outlets.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Another doc visit update
Time for an appointment update…Perinatologist visit # 4 day took place last Thursday, April 17-at 26 weeks, 4 days. Again we saw Dr. Busowski, and again we got an excellent report. The tech measured their growth..remarking on what big heads they had and how smart they’ll be as a result..hmmm.. They are still measuring above average- a good 2 weeks or so, at 2 lbs, 7 ounces each. We are always really excited to see how much they weigh.
Here is the Babycenter average weight chart for where we are at:
26 weeks: 14.02 inches 1.68 pound 35.6 cm 760 grams
27 weeks: 14.41 inches 1.93 pound 36.6 cm 875 grams
Baby girl A is still head down and B is breech..the tech scared me a bit about delivery...I said I'd like to avoid a C-section if possible and she said, oh, not me, I have seen too many times where the first one comes naturally and then they aren't able to deliver #2 that way and end up doing a C-section. I know that is a possibility but I wasn't thinking it wasn’t that likely... Anyway, then the doc came in, said that everything is looking good (and big) and just chatted for a few minutes. He is quite funny and personable.
Yesterday was another OB appointment. Dr. C now says I must see him every week (before he would let me go 2 if I wanted to) b/c he says more things can start to go wrong after 28 weeks. Of course, the 1st thing I thought of was the darn cervix checks that he does (rather uncomfortable) but hey, if it’s for the good of the babies, sure-go for it! I asked about types of delivery and he said since A has been head down for pretty much the whole time, she’ll probably stay that way and we can try vaginal if I want but he will do C-section if I’d prefer that. At this point, I am not sure anymore. He did say that only once in his 20 years of practicing has he had to deliver a set of twins both ways- one naturally, the other C-section. He also said he thinks I probably will go to at least 36 weeks, just based on how everything is going now. Another 2 months would be great! For the twins that is. For me...not so much, as things are getting pretty rough, I must say. But if it means they are that much healthier and bigger, and can avoid the NICU, I am all for it. He did say I could probably be induced at 36. That's about it for now!
Here is the Babycenter average weight chart for where we are at:
26 weeks: 14.02 inches 1.68 pound 35.6 cm 760 grams
27 weeks: 14.41 inches 1.93 pound 36.6 cm 875 grams
Baby girl A is still head down and B is breech..the tech scared me a bit about delivery...I said I'd like to avoid a C-section if possible and she said, oh, not me, I have seen too many times where the first one comes naturally and then they aren't able to deliver #2 that way and end up doing a C-section. I know that is a possibility but I wasn't thinking it wasn’t that likely... Anyway, then the doc came in, said that everything is looking good (and big) and just chatted for a few minutes. He is quite funny and personable.
Yesterday was another OB appointment. Dr. C now says I must see him every week (before he would let me go 2 if I wanted to) b/c he says more things can start to go wrong after 28 weeks. Of course, the 1st thing I thought of was the darn cervix checks that he does (rather uncomfortable) but hey, if it’s for the good of the babies, sure-go for it! I asked about types of delivery and he said since A has been head down for pretty much the whole time, she’ll probably stay that way and we can try vaginal if I want but he will do C-section if I’d prefer that. At this point, I am not sure anymore. He did say that only once in his 20 years of practicing has he had to deliver a set of twins both ways- one naturally, the other C-section. He also said he thinks I probably will go to at least 36 weeks, just based on how everything is going now. Another 2 months would be great! For the twins that is. For me...not so much, as things are getting pretty rough, I must say. But if it means they are that much healthier and bigger, and can avoid the NICU, I am all for it. He did say I could probably be induced at 36. That's about it for now!
Monday, April 21, 2008
అం ఎత్నిక్ ఫెఅస్ట్
This blog title is "An Ethnic Feast" transliterated into Telugu. It refers to Sunday's gathering at the Pallavajallas with a few friends, some old, some new. Following my Latin immersion on Saturday, Sunday we explored South Asian cuisine, all prepared in-house.
Indian has been my favorite ethnic fare for some time. Beyond its savory flavors, it is a sensual delight with its exquisite assortment of colors and scents. As in restaurants it's not a budget meal, I had started acquiring a dozen or so common spices and experimenting with recipes at home. Then the natural idea arose: why not gather more hands, utensils, and expertise, and whip up an Indian dinner party?
With Indian food, you can't have too many cooks stirring the pot: many recipes list ingredients occupying half the length of a page and call for chopping and grinding this and sprinkling and stirring that, then adding one prepared mixture to the curry sauteing in the pot...not to mention the rice and naan (pita bread) and on and on...While one could save hours by dining out, there's just no comparison to the frenzied kitchen tango and satisfaction of turning fourteen separate ingredients into a steaming bowl of wonder.
Joining this party was a couple with a 16 month old half-Indian daughter. While mom was shuffling among pots and pans and cutting boards, she took breaks to spoon-feed her daughter a mixture of well-cooked rice and lentils. This, I hear, is the baby food Indians swear by. And why not? Packed with nutrition and no doubt tastier than the blended peas and chicken goop Westerners force down their infants' throats, it points to our over-cautious approach to raising children. And hints at a future blog topic.
Indian has been my favorite ethnic fare for some time. Beyond its savory flavors, it is a sensual delight with its exquisite assortment of colors and scents. As in restaurants it's not a budget meal, I had started acquiring a dozen or so common spices and experimenting with recipes at home. Then the natural idea arose: why not gather more hands, utensils, and expertise, and whip up an Indian dinner party?
With Indian food, you can't have too many cooks stirring the pot: many recipes list ingredients occupying half the length of a page and call for chopping and grinding this and sprinkling and stirring that, then adding one prepared mixture to the curry sauteing in the pot...not to mention the rice and naan (pita bread) and on and on...While one could save hours by dining out, there's just no comparison to the frenzied kitchen tango and satisfaction of turning fourteen separate ingredients into a steaming bowl of wonder.
Joining this party was a couple with a 16 month old half-Indian daughter. While mom was shuffling among pots and pans and cutting boards, she took breaks to spoon-feed her daughter a mixture of well-cooked rice and lentils. This, I hear, is the baby food Indians swear by. And why not? Packed with nutrition and no doubt tastier than the blended peas and chicken goop Westerners force down their infants' throats, it points to our over-cautious approach to raising children. And hints at a future blog topic.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Un Dia Cultural
I just returned from volunteering at the 2008 Hispanic Business Expo at the Orange County Convention Center. I was not a ticket taker or the guy who pedaled people from the far reaches of the grass overflow parking lot to the front entrance. No, I warmed the seat of the City of Orlando's Economic Development Department booth. I smiled once or twice, handed out some flyers, and snuck away occasionally to stroll the corridors of this mega-giant convention hall. Seriously, you could've landed a 777 inside this thing had it been equipped with a retractable roof.
A few observations:
A few observations:
- not many expo goers made it a priority to learn about the Economic Development Department
- Latinos love life, their tunes, and to shake what their mommas gave 'em even while sober as a judge
- the corn arepas from the Colombian booth were blistering hot but muy delicioso
- a day of pacing those aisles is equivalent to a half-marathon and thus the perfect way to tire out your hyper energized Miguelito
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
No Animals Were Harmed
*As of Sunday, Kel is in week 26. I've been delayed in posting these due to protracted efforts to convince the pets to pose nude.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Chinchilla Chat
A brisk and bit dismal start to the week in Orlando.
Yesterday was Lamaze session 2. Who would've thought breathing is so hard? We have three more weeks to get it right.
On Sunday we enjoyed caffeinated* beverages with a certain B and R (or DH, to protect his anonymity) at a Thornton Park establishment adorned with a green mermaid. They (mostly B) author an impressive blog on the struggle with infertility, mixed in with commentary on an enviable selection of topics to which this blog aspires. Luckily, baby talk on this day was kept to a minimum. Instead, we delved into happy times past and present: travels, friends, nature, humor, and chinchillas. Despite the challenge they face, they carry an awesome attitude and radiate an appreciation of the small joys of life. (Presumably so do these two.)
* Yes, moms, Kel had decaf.
Yesterday was Lamaze session 2. Who would've thought breathing is so hard? We have three more weeks to get it right.
On Sunday we enjoyed caffeinated* beverages with a certain B and R (or DH, to protect his anonymity) at a Thornton Park establishment adorned with a green mermaid. They (mostly B) author an impressive blog on the struggle with infertility, mixed in with commentary on an enviable selection of topics to which this blog aspires. Luckily, baby talk on this day was kept to a minimum. Instead, we delved into happy times past and present: travels, friends, nature, humor, and chinchillas. Despite the challenge they face, they carry an awesome attitude and radiate an appreciation of the small joys of life. (Presumably so do these two.)
* Yes, moms, Kel had decaf.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Back from the BBQ
Having just returned from a barbecue get-together at Wekiwa/Wekiva Springs (they really need to make a final decision on their name) the weekend is back into first gear. Close to 20 friends came out despite an initial hiccup: as soon as we got there, the park police turned all others away due to overcrowding. It's in the 80s, people love the outdoors, and what better time than 1PM on a Saturday to enjoy both? Lesson learned.
Tonight we may go test-drive a Rav4, and then finish up our taxes. Wow! Saturday nights have a newfound damper...but what an opportunity to freshen up on the latest IRS regulations!
Tonight we may go test-drive a Rav4, and then finish up our taxes. Wow! Saturday nights have a newfound damper...but what an opportunity to freshen up on the latest IRS regulations!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Driving to Debtville
Our offspring, it's turning out, will require more than a steady supply of food and disposable underwear. Though they're not quite ready to drive a car, nor capable of even seeing one, WT have expressed a strong desire for a new ride. Bowing to their wishes, today we sold Kelly's silver Cavalier coupe, which she's owned since it rolled off the assembly line in 2001. And to provide WT with all the legroom they can stand, we're in the market for a small Baby Utility Vehicle.
As a mere $25,000 is hardly enough to stimulate the local economy, we've also been in the market for a new place to call home. As soon as our charming ready-to-occupy duplex is off our hands* (it's been offered since last April, in which time the asking price has dropped $85K) we'll be ready to occupy someone else's problem.
No doubt about it, 2008 has so far been a rousing year. Of course, we're only thinking of the children. Now if only WT would demand a week long breather in the Caribbees....
*Surely one ice-bound reader from the colder climes would cherish a small slice of sunshine for only $289,000???
As a mere $25,000 is hardly enough to stimulate the local economy, we've also been in the market for a new place to call home. As soon as our charming ready-to-occupy duplex is off our hands* (it's been offered since last April, in which time the asking price has dropped $85K) we'll be ready to occupy someone else's problem.
No doubt about it, 2008 has so far been a rousing year. Of course, we're only thinking of the children. Now if only WT would demand a week long breather in the Caribbees....
*Surely one ice-bound reader from the colder climes would cherish a small slice of sunshine for only $289,000???
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Lamaze Malaise
Due to another inexcusable weekend of slacking, I hadn't reminded the readership that we were heading to our first of five Lamaze classes yesterday. And so we did. As instructed, we hauled along four pillows and a sense of humor (that they did not require for participation but it turned out invaluable).
Seven couples were in attendance. All hetero, incidentally. The night got off to a groan, at least for me, as we were paired off with two other couples and had to run through a series of get-to-know-you questions. (I'm all for making acquaintances, but I'm not at all for this regimented junior high orientation-style drill). We then presented the class with the bios of our new friends, and the ice was broken.
Following this feel-good half-hour, our instructor solicited the seven ladies for a list of their pregnancy discomforts. These ranged from back pain (#1 on the chart) to mood swings to dribbles. This one she saved for last, and I'll save completely from any further discussion.
What came next really put the festivities in high gear. Out of her toy box the instructor pulled a 30 lb. mock-up boob and pregnant belly vest. Each guy was obligated to strap on this straightjacket and express appreciation for the suffering of our partners. Heavy though it was, I had no issue with it until I sat down, causing the full weight of the faux fetus to crash down on the crotch.
The evening ended with a video (doesn't anyone show filmstrips anymore?) of Bill Cosby's routine on childbirth's horror and humor. I suppose this class intends to replace the former with the latter. There are four more to go and we'll do our best.
P.S. No pillows were fluffed during the course of the evening. We're to try again next week.
Seven couples were in attendance. All hetero, incidentally. The night got off to a groan, at least for me, as we were paired off with two other couples and had to run through a series of get-to-know-you questions. (I'm all for making acquaintances, but I'm not at all for this regimented junior high orientation-style drill). We then presented the class with the bios of our new friends, and the ice was broken.
Following this feel-good half-hour, our instructor solicited the seven ladies for a list of their pregnancy discomforts. These ranged from back pain (#1 on the chart) to mood swings to dribbles. This one she saved for last, and I'll save completely from any further discussion.
What came next really put the festivities in high gear. Out of her toy box the instructor pulled a 30 lb. mock-up boob and pregnant belly vest. Each guy was obligated to strap on this straightjacket and express appreciation for the suffering of our partners. Heavy though it was, I had no issue with it until I sat down, causing the full weight of the faux fetus to crash down on the crotch.
The evening ended with a video (doesn't anyone show filmstrips anymore?) of Bill Cosby's routine on childbirth's horror and humor. I suppose this class intends to replace the former with the latter. There are four more to go and we'll do our best.
P.S. No pillows were fluffed during the course of the evening. We're to try again next week.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Weekend Worries
Upon leaving work this afternoon, my boss came by my desk and reminded me that I better enjoy the weekends I have left. I assume he was referring to the Coming of the Twins, and not my impending death from some wretched viral infection or a twisted plan of his to bring me in on Saturdays.
Though I hate to comment on another's personal business in this forum, especially when that person is unaware, one at times has to do things one hates for the sake of keeping one's blog afloat. So...this man has fathered two sons and adopted one daughter from China. The sons are both teenagers and the daughter--with a charming Chinese name that I can't remember and couldn't spell even if I did--will be there soon. His eldest son has found a new hobby: girls. The younger dismisses the importance of homework, and his nameless daughter...ah, I can't recall now, but at any rate, she's no angel either. In summary, from his perspective, a house with three wild kids is a much less appealing place to spend the weekend than his office throne.
I can't say for sure that hungry and restless twins with a combined weight equal to a teenager's years will be less problematic. What I do know, though, is that I won't have to worry about them smoking, mating, piercing, stealing, or cursing at me in Mandarin. Let them work up to that.
Though I hate to comment on another's personal business in this forum, especially when that person is unaware, one at times has to do things one hates for the sake of keeping one's blog afloat. So...this man has fathered two sons and adopted one daughter from China. The sons are both teenagers and the daughter--with a charming Chinese name that I can't remember and couldn't spell even if I did--will be there soon. His eldest son has found a new hobby: girls. The younger dismisses the importance of homework, and his nameless daughter...ah, I can't recall now, but at any rate, she's no angel either. In summary, from his perspective, a house with three wild kids is a much less appealing place to spend the weekend than his office throne.
I can't say for sure that hungry and restless twins with a combined weight equal to a teenager's years will be less problematic. What I do know, though, is that I won't have to worry about them smoking, mating, piercing, stealing, or cursing at me in Mandarin. Let them work up to that.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Battle with Blogger's Block
I've now sat at the laptop for 23 minutes, staring blankly at the wall, my feet, the trees outside, and back at the wall. Neither the wall, my feet, or the trees have changed much during this time; my blank look, on the other hand, continues to sink further into blankness as I struggle to discover the topic for the day. I'm putting my fruitless exploration out of its misery, however, as soccer starts in 45 minutes. I'll resume the wall analysis tomorrow. And you'll get to read all about it!
The Big Event (no, not that Big Event!)
Karl has been nagging me to post a shower summary since he spent those 3 or so hours last Saturday out with the guys on the porch, drinking beer, eating, and chatting about sports, the weather, electronics, and other NON baby-related topics. But hey, I do give them all credit for attending the shower. My brother Jeff expressed many times what a dumb idea it is to have a co-ed shower. But I had agreed all along that they wouldn’t be forced to participate in the typical shower activities of games, present-opening, and especially cooing over my newly expanded belly. The thought was, why shouldn't Karl and the guys be there? He will be just as involved as me in the lives (and diaper-changing) of A&B.
All in all, the day was a success. My mom and good friends Claudia, Liz, and Denise obviously put a lot of time and effort into the planning and I feel very blessed to have such good friends and family. They have also sincerely offered help once the babies are here- we’ll surely take them up on that :)
A party in honor of me is very flattering, really. This may sound silly, but I kept thinking how every person there came just for me, is excited for Karl and I, picked out gifts, and are really hoping for the best for us and for A&B. My friend Sarah (mother of one and with another on the way) tells me it is so important to have a strong support network around when you have a baby (or 2) and I believe she’s right.
And now a brief summary of the afternoon’s events…the theme was ‘2 peas in a pod’ and the invitations, plates, napkins, cups, decorations, and food all matched. Props to the planning committee for the idea and coordination of this- I overheard many compliments throughout the day. Guests arrived around 2 pm and dined on an assortment of sandwiches, cheese, crackers, fruit, and other finger foods. Games, led by the planning committee, included ‘Guess the names Kelly and Karl are considering for the Babies’, a race to diaper a baby doll with one hand, and a word scramble. The gift-opening was filmed by brother Jeff while BINGO was played by the guests. (This was a new one to me) Numbers had been taped to the bottom of each gift. As I opened a gift, I called out that number and the players would cross that number off on their BINGO board. The cutting of the cake concluded the event. Another big ‘thank-you’ to everyone for the gifts and for your attendance. This was a day I’d been dreaming about for some time and finally it was here. The next ‘BIG’ event I am dreaming of? Yes, the birth of A&B, which I am growing more eager for by the day.
All in all, the day was a success. My mom and good friends Claudia, Liz, and Denise obviously put a lot of time and effort into the planning and I feel very blessed to have such good friends and family. They have also sincerely offered help once the babies are here- we’ll surely take them up on that :)
A party in honor of me is very flattering, really. This may sound silly, but I kept thinking how every person there came just for me, is excited for Karl and I, picked out gifts, and are really hoping for the best for us and for A&B. My friend Sarah (mother of one and with another on the way) tells me it is so important to have a strong support network around when you have a baby (or 2) and I believe she’s right.
And now a brief summary of the afternoon’s events…the theme was ‘2 peas in a pod’ and the invitations, plates, napkins, cups, decorations, and food all matched. Props to the planning committee for the idea and coordination of this- I overheard many compliments throughout the day. Guests arrived around 2 pm and dined on an assortment of sandwiches, cheese, crackers, fruit, and other finger foods. Games, led by the planning committee, included ‘Guess the names Kelly and Karl are considering for the Babies’, a race to diaper a baby doll with one hand, and a word scramble. The gift-opening was filmed by brother Jeff while BINGO was played by the guests. (This was a new one to me) Numbers had been taped to the bottom of each gift. As I opened a gift, I called out that number and the players would cross that number off on their BINGO board. The cutting of the cake concluded the event. Another big ‘thank-you’ to everyone for the gifts and for your attendance. This was a day I’d been dreaming about for some time and finally it was here. The next ‘BIG’ event I am dreaming of? Yes, the birth of A&B, which I am growing more eager for by the day.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Blame it on the Shower
A busy start to the week means no entries in three days. Certainly not what our anonymous reader in Littleton, Colorado has come to expect from this blog. It would be a simple excuse to state that I've been occupied by my attention to my helpless wife: massaging her feet, preparing dinner, laundering her giant blue shorts, and reading 18th century French poetry to her from the moment I come home until the sound of said poetry puts her to sleep. None of that would be true; though, I do on occasion keep watch over boiling rice.
In fact, we've been assiduously reviewing in wonderment all of our baby shower gifts, oohing and aahing over each onesie, layette, highchair, diaper rash, ...no, wait a minute, I'm having a flashback to that word scramble.
Kelly just walked in the door and announced "walk pets time!" I prefer "reheat miso soup time!" but as the pets won't walk themselves (well, really we just won't let them), it's time for another sign-off.
In fact, we've been assiduously reviewing in wonderment all of our baby shower gifts, oohing and aahing over each onesie, layette, highchair, diaper rash, ...no, wait a minute, I'm having a flashback to that word scramble.
Kelly just walked in the door and announced "walk pets time!" I prefer "reheat miso soup time!" but as the pets won't walk themselves (well, really we just won't let them), it's time for another sign-off.
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