Food, Glorious Food!

I have found that since Little Sister's arrival, finding time to cook and eat has become one of life's little luxuries.  But, as I've posted before, I have to take care of myself so that I can take care of her.  During the week, I find that I usually grab a bocadillo or paella from one of my favorite spots or eat a bowl of cereal and call it a night.  During the weekend, I do indulge my culinary skills to whip up something creative for me and Daddy-O.  Since I'm always on the lookout to find dishes that are easy to prepare, yet pack a nutritional punch, I have recently discovered quinoa (pronounced keen-wah).  I think this is the tastiest export ever from Bolivia.  If you haven't checked out this superfood, you must do so soon.  It's high in protein and fiber, and has a warm, nutty flavor.  Contrary to popular belief, it is not a grain, but closely related to the spinach and beet family...go figure.  It's the perfect side dish, but since it pairs so well with meats and veggies, it can also be the main course.  It can be prepared savory or sweet; served hot or cold; it's extremely versatile.

This past weekend, I whipped up two great meals for some specials friends.  With Daddy-O as my sous chef to prep the onions, tomatoes and garlic, cooking time was minimal.  Check out the recipes below.

Blackened Tilapia with Wilted Spinach & Grape Tomatoes

Quinoa with Satuéed Onions & Garlic

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water or chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large vidalia onion
3 cloves garlic
salt & pepper to taste

1. Bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.  Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is tender and the water has been absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes.
2.  While quinoa is cooking, chop onion into thin slivers.  Mince garlic.  Sautée both in olive oil until the onions are translucent and the garlic is starting to brown. 
3. Once quinoa has absorbed all of the water, stir in sautéed onion & garlic mixture.

Pan Seared Halibut 

2 - 8oz fillets of halibut
1 lemon
olive oil
Carolina Seafood Blend from The Fresh Market

1. Place halibut (skin side up) in a shallow bowl.  Squeeze lemon on top.  Add olive oil.  Add Carolina Seafood Blend seasoning.  Let marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil in pan.  Sear halibut flesh side down for 3-4 minutes.  Flip over and sear skin side down for 3-4 minutes.  
3. Add marinade to the pan.  Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10 minutes.  Fish is ready to serve when it's easy to flake with a fork.

Blackened Tilapia with Wilted Spinach & Grape Tomatoes

4 fillets of tilapia
Blackened Seasoning
1 bag baby spinach
1 thinly sliced shallot
one small crate grape tomatoes - cut in half

1. Place tilapia in shallow bowl.  Squeeze one lemon on top.  Season with blackened seasoning.  Let marinate for 5 - 10 minutes.  Do not let it marinate for too long, or else you'll end up with ceviche because tilapia is so thin.
2. In a nice sized pan, pan sear the tilapia in olive oil.  If necessary, pan sear the pieces in separate batches, but in the end, all pieces should be layered in the pan.
3. In a separate pan, sautée shallots in olive oil.  Add bag of baby spinach and sautée until slightly wilted.
4. Add spinach to pan of blackened tilapia.  Add grape tomatoes to tilapia & spinach.
5. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Bon Appétit

My name is Tshombe...

...and I am a perpetrator.  There, I said it!  What am I perpetrating, you ask?  I'm perpetrating that I'm still pregnant!  Well, minus the throwing up in random parking lots, of course.  I'm perpetrating because on occasion (every weekend), I still sport some of my maternity clothes!  They are so darn comfy.  Truth be told I am probably fooling no one because I do not look the least bit pregnant.  Thanks to gestational diabetes, my 6 week postpartum weight was 20 pounds less than my first prenatal visit.  But, who cares!?!  I cannot stop myself from wearing my "grey prison dress," which was my go to get up after I got off of work and on the weekends.  It's the perfect weight, it's not too clingy, it was even perfect for my daily walks when I couldn't squeeze my big belly into exercise gear.  Yes, I do wish it was a bit more fashionable and didn't make me look like my name is "Inmate #782534R," but, it's a small price to pay for comfort.  I have yet to find a "regular" dress as comfy as this.  I think there's an untapped market for "transition" clothes for new moms to wear after they've given birth, but are too freakin' busy with a baby to care about sporting the latest fashion.  So, what say you ladies?  Am I crazy or have you done this as well?

Me (in The Grey Dress) & Big D

What's wrong with this picture???

This is a picture of Little Sister's crib.  The only thing that's missing is Little Sister!  She has not slept through the night in this crib since...EVER!  But, since it's adjacent to the bed, it is a handy toybox/bookcase/cellphone & MacBook charging station.  I'm at a crossroads because she has outgrown her mini-crib and it is now time to invest in a real crib, but I am torn.  Against the well-meaning advice of numerous family members and friends, Little Sister and I share a bed.  Actually, I now occupy one teeny-tiny sliver of the edge of what was formerly known as "my bed."  She finds a way to take up the entire bed, and has done so since day #1.  I have read all the ominous warnings about the dangers of co-sleeping.  But, co-sleeping is also thought to have benefits as well.  One of the biggest benefits for me is that during the week, the daily rat-race makes it feel as if I get too little time with my pumpkin.  Bedtime is when we wind things down, read a book, giggle, babble, laugh, snuggle and then fall asleep.  I wouldn't trade these few minutes for anything in the world, nor would I think of waking her up out of her peaceful slumber to place her somewhere else.  When I was pregnant I hadn't even considered co-sleeping, but as my nesting instinct was revving up into overdrive and my desire to set-up a nursery dominated every conversation, Daddy-O encouraged me to challenge conventional wisdom regarding putting her in a separate room once she turned 3 months old.  I don't think he was challenging conventional wisdom about having her sleep in her own bed, but oh well.  Some nights it does feel like a scene out of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (remember, both sets of grandparents slept in the same bed?).  But, now that we're all used to it, I wouldn't have it any other way.  The thought of having her sleep in another room outside of my sight causes me much trepidation.  Instead of being concerned that co-sleeping will result in her becoming a dependent and clingy girl, I'm claiming that our close quarters will result in her being able to boldly and confidently go forward in the world because at the end of the day, she knows that she'll come to a home that is nurturing and loving...and by then she'll come home to her own room.  :-)  So, I guess in answer to my own question, "what's wrong with this picture???," the answer is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

Where there's a will...

The old adage goes, "Where there's a will, there's a way."  Lately, I've been thinking a lot about this saying for several reasons.  Since we're winding down the season of Lent, I'm reflecting on God's will for my life.  The Lord's Prayer states, "...Thy will be done," which is a line that I've pondered numerous times as I've dealt with life's numerous twists, turns, ups and downs.  I'm ever so grateful that His will was to bless me with this amazing little girl.

But, I also interpret the word "will" in a more literal sense, such as making one's wishes known for what to do upon your passing.  I've recently been privy to one family's "drama" that has arisen when an elder passed, yet did not make provisions for how their affairs were to be handled.  Unfortunately, grief, strife and family schisms have resulted from efforts to settle matters.  The thought, "where there's a will, there's a way," keeps playing over and over in my head because if there was a will, there would have been a way to resolve these matters while preserving family bonds.

Along these same lines, it is important to let your family and loved ones know what end of life decisions you would like made in the event that you become incapacitated.  Advance directives (also referred to as living wills) express how you want to be treated if you are seriously ill and unable to speak for yourself.  Making your wishes known prevents a possible show down between loved ones who feel that it's in their best interest to advocate for you, but may not be in agreement regarding what to do.

Please remember, you don't have to be as wealthy as Donald Trump or Oprah Winfrey to execute a will.  And completing a living will is free!  Your doctor should be able to provide you with the necessary forms.  Or, for a small free you can find generic forms at Five Wishes. 

But, I guess the most important thing to remember is the importance of communication.  Talking about end-of-life issues and money are two of the most difficult topics to discuss.  But, honest conversations beforehand can prevent unnecessary problems at a time of mourning.  As my mother has made abundantly clear to her kids, "Do not stand over my bed discussing when to pull the plug!"  She sometimes says it in a comical manner, but she has made sure that we're clear about her wishes.  And that's the most important thing.

P.S. As I was looking for resources for the blog post, I learned that April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day.  The website is a fantastic resource!

Isn't it all "me time"?

"Me time" was a foreign concept to me before Little Sister's arrival.  Prior to that, I was a footloose and fancy free, single girl in the city who relished her independence.  I didn't have to answer to anyone, except Skip!, and he was straight after a bellyrub and a treat.  Well, those days are o-ver.  While I love spending time with Little Sister, I'm finding that a few hours of alone time each week helps me stay balanced while juggling work and family responsibilities.  Tonight, Little Sister and Daddy-O got to get in some good bonding time while I visited Bernard, my favorite stylist.  The awesome scalp massage was just what the doctor ordered to help release the tension of the day.  While I am hardly a high maintenance "diva" type, I think I'll be treating myself and sharing my "me time" with Bernard for a scalp massage and style regularly.  Never underestimate the power of taking care of yourself.  As they instruct you on the airline pre-flight instructions, put on your oxygen mask first so that you're then prepared to take care of others.

"Me Time" Headquarters

A mom's best friend...WIPES

I am finding that there are a lot of things that I cannot live without now that I'm a mom.  Some of the stuff is really cool, like the Winkel, but some of the stuff is totally mundane, which brings me to WIPES!  Who knew that there were wipes for EVERY surface of the body?!?  Of course we have wipes for the tushie, which was the extent of my wipes knowledge.  But boy, I have obviously been living a sheltered life...we have wipes for face & hands, wipes to keep my hands clean for diaper changes on the go, wipes to keep her binkie clean, and my favorite...wipes for runny noses.  These have been indispensable during this rough allergy season.  So, I have channeled my inner Mr. Monk and always have wipes on the ready!

Breaking News...Little Sister Is Here ~ 12.12.11

OK, that subject line is VERY tongue in cheek.  By now you ALL know that Little Sister was born into this world on November 4, 2011.  I have been remiss in writing a final missive for a few reasons.  #1 - there is hardly ever a free string of 10 minutes to piece together to write a well thought out e-mail, #2 - I guess I haven't made myself sit down to commit to (electronic) pen and paper my thoughts about childbirth and becoming a parent.  "It's deep" is the simplest thing to say.  But, as I approach my sixth and final week (yes, I am still counting weeks) of maternity leave, I figure I better do this now or else it will never get done. 

So, you've all heard (if you're on Facebook) about the physical aspects of Little Sister's entrance (i.e. the Ring of Fire), but beyond that, I can honestly say it was the most intense experience of my life.  I cannot get the image out of my mind of seeing her for the very first time.  Thinking back, it still has an out of body feel to me (it may be because it was at 5:30a and I was feeling a bit delusional).  I was there, obviously, but I feel like my mind is still processing the enormity of it all.  Her little crooked smile, her coal black eyes, her slick hair; she was the most beautiful little baby I'd ever seen and I gave birth to HER.  As I reflect on that moment, I'll say two things, to which you may disagree, but hey, that's OK too.  #1 - an atheist has never given birth; and #2 if men gave birth, there would be no war.  I say #1 because I am still in awe of the childbearing process.  To think that what started off as a teeny tiny ball of cells grew and developed into a living, breathing, squirming, crying, eating, sleeping and pooping human being is beyond my comprehension.  The only plausible explanation is God.  I state #2 because having gone through this process, I have a new found appreciation for the HARD WORK that goes into bringing a child into being and a better understanding of the frailty of life.  As someone who has worked in the field of public health for years, I had an awareness of infant and maternal mortality issues, but going through this process has heightened my sensitivity to the challenges that exist in bringing a healthy baby to bear.  I think if men had to undergo this process, they would think twice about declaring war and taking life.  On a practical level, this is hard work and I think there would be more thoughtful consideration of taking a life if one had gone through the arduous experience of bearing life.  I don't know, these are just my random musings on life, birth, and my beautiful baby girl.  :-)

So, we're now one month in with Little Sister (she's named after Big Sister) and are enjoying the ride.  I have enjoyed being home with her these past 5 weeks and am so sad to see that my maternity leave is winding down.  My days have been spent feeding, burping, changing, listening to her 'coo' and snuggling with my little pumpkin.  She still hasn't figured out the whole day/night thing, so night time can be a little brutal, but we're hanging in there.  Mommy was here the first few weeks to "show me the ropes" of caring for her and will be back at Christmas to check on my progress.  :-)  I've made up lots of songs lately to keep her amused and distracted.  I've made up a song about the name "Little Sister" the words seem to change with every version, so send me your suggestions on words that rhyme with "Little Sister."  I also have a pretty solid ditty about poopy-poopy diapers, which I think she likes.  :-)  And I just overheard Daddy-O singing to her about being "poop free" while changing her diaper, so watch out Rodgers and Hammerstein, we may be the next great American songwriting duo.  Lots of folks have commented on how fast this time goes by, so I am savoring every moment...from her sweet, sweet cooing, to the the late nite feedings, to the poopy diapers to her first hint of a smile to me yesterday.

By the way, Skip is fine.  We now call him Officer Skip because he is quite protective of the baby.  When I'm feeding her, he sits at my feet on the ready, prepared to take on anyone who tries to get near us.  Recently, I was watching TV and a commercial came on that included a baby's cry.  Skip immediately jumped up, trotted over to Little Sister's crib. got on his hind legs to peer in on her and when he realized that she was asleep and was not crying, he went back to his bed and relaxed.  So, he's adjusting to it all and I can't wait until she gets a bit older and can play with him.

By the way, I probably won't be posting a lot of pictures of Little Sister on Facebook.  Although you guys know that I totally love the internet and FB, I am leery about putting her image out there too much.  I know her cuteness needs to be shared, but FB and the internet is like the wild wild west and once I send it, there's no control over who sees it (despite what we may think about FB's "privacy" settings).  So, I'll probably stick with e-mailing her picture or sending pix via text message.  You can never be too careful...

So, Daddy-O and I thank you all for your words of encouragement, support, advice and gifts.  We know the real work is just beginning, but I can't thank you enough for the love and support you showed me during my pregnancy.  It was an experience that I will carry forever in my heart, but I can honestly say that I am sooooo glad to be done with running to the potty every 5 minutes, heartburn, gestational diabetes, leg cramps, m.i.a. appetite, waddling (instead of walking) and a jacked-up back.  As we approach Christmas, I find myself reflecting on James 1:17 {Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.}...Little Sister is the most amazing gift with which I have ever been blessed and I am eternally thankful to God for blessing us with her.  What a blessing!!!

Much love,

Tshombe...and Little Sister :-)

To everything there is a season... ~ 9.19.11

READ FIRST: http://odb.org/2011/09/19/seasons-of-ups-and-downs/

Hi peeps! 

Brrrr...it's getting chilly out there, which to me means so much.  Not only are the atmospheric seasons changing, but personal season changes are fast approaching as Daddy-O and I approach the new Season of Parenthood.  We are both eagerly awaiting the arrival of Little Sister...we can't wait to see her sweet little face, give her hugs, kisses & snuggles and embark upon the journey of raising this little girl to whom God has entrusted us.  It's an awesome, and totally overwhelming, feeling.  From the moment I found out I was pregnant, her well-being has been at the forefront of my mind.  This feeling is one which I've heard from you parents never really subsides.   I was reminded of this last week when Mommy and I made a quick trip to CA.  As soon as we landed, I had to head to headquarters to network and start building relationships with my west coast peers.  The activities included a dinner meeting (which I thoroughly enjoyed even though I could not partake in the free flowing libations), so I didn't get back to the hotel room until after 9:30p PST.  I was met at the door by Mommy exclaiming, "There you are!  I was about to start calling to find out where my child was!"  So, nevermind the fact that I told her that I had a dinner meeting or that I've lived independently for the past 25+ years, when a parent is out of touch with their chickees, the antennae go up.  I would have been interested to know exactly who she would have called, but I didn't press the issue.  :-)

When I think of seasons, especially the newly arrived Fall season, I think of harvest. And when I think of harvest, I think of all the love and support that you have showered upon and nourished me with as I approach parenthood.  Every kind word & thought, every phone call, every prayer, every card and gift, Bed, Bath & Beyond coupon, and every dinner at Whole Foods has helped to prepare me for this momumental (that was a typo, but I think "MOMumental" is just as appropriate as "monumental") change in season that is fast approaching.  This was particularly evident a few weeks ago when my big sisters and Miss R hosted a beautiful baby shower.  THANK YOU so much to all of you who joined us or send treats and a special thank you for those who made an even larger personal sacrifice to come to ATL from out of town to wish us well.  We had a wonderful time celebrating Little Sister's impending arrival.  Who knew there were so many karaoke addicts among us?!?  :-) Little Sister has a fantastic foundation for her library.  There will not be a lack of reading material in this house, that's for sure!  Many tears were shed as we reflected upon the life of my grandmother AND as we rejoiced for the baby.  Just as the bloom on a flower fades to make room for new blossoms, we've accepted that letting go and saying good-bye is just as important as saying hello and welcoming in precious new family members.

Now that I'm back from CA, Operation Little Sister Preparation is in full swing.  Coming up on the agenda are lots of trips to Target & Buy Buy Baby, more unpacking :-(, childbirth & breastfeeding classes, figuring out carseats, figuring out strollers, deciding cloth vs. disposable, cleaning and NESTING!  With less than 8 weeks left, the reality is finally sinking in that I'M NOT READY!!!  So, be prepared for random e-mails during the middle of the night pondering my child's carbon footprint if I decide upon disposable vs. cloth.  Some of you have already received such late night missives and your reply has been GO TO SLEEP!  :-)

So, I wish you all a happy Monday and I hope that you have a blessed week!

Much love,

Tshombe, Little Sister & Skip!

P.S. In case you're wondering, I'm still wearing my pink tiara.  It has lost a bit of it's fluff, but that's OK.  :-) 

T minus 10! ~ 9.2.11

Hi peeps,

First of all, THANK YOU so much for the love and support you've shown me and my family over the past few weeks as we've coped with my grandmother's passing.  The e-mail messages that you sent were so special and life-affirming of her impact that she had on me and our entire family.  So, I sincerely thank you all.  While I'm sad that she won't be here to see Little Sister grow up, I truly hope that she inherits her spunky, feisty personality.  :-)  Many, many MBS stories were shared over the last few weeks ranging from guns in ovens to selfless sacrifice.  My grandmother had many "dynamic layers" and we're going to miss them all.

Today I hit week #30!  WOOT WOOT!  To be honest, enthusiasm via e-mail is about as much enthusiasm as I can muster these days.  Calling it the "third trimester" is a misnomer; it should be called The Beatdown!  My fatigue is pretty bad, unfortunately.  My doc explained that the baby is sucking up all of our iron to make her red blood cells, so I just have to deal with it.  It's all part of the process that I am "embracing."  But as Miss R says, "for real, for real" I am dog tired!

But, I know who is NOT tired...Little Sister.  She is one active little pumpkin.  She is as snug as a bug in a rug and doing well.  I go to the doc every two weeks now and I'm able to hear her little heartbeat each time.  It's music to my ears.  And as usual, I feel her swirling and twirling about in my tummy.  She has also gotten in a few good jabs, but I'll let her slide.  :-)

So this weekend is the shower!  I'm so excited to see my family and friends.  I haven't been much of a social butterfly since I got pregnant because I had bad fatigue in the beginning and now at the end.  And with changing jobs, moving, and life in general, I've been sticking pretty close to home.  So, I say that to say that I am really looking forward to seeing family and friends from far and NEAR this weekend!  Rumor has it that the karaoke machine is en route as we speak, so watch out now!  Although I'm soooo out of breath these days, I will have to tackle Rapper's Delight again to shock and awe Daddy.  :-)  And, J.D. is gonna have to will herself from her sickbed so that we can give an encore performance of Baby Got Back (Oh my gawd, Becky...look at her butt!).  I've also heard from a reliable source that someone is planning to rock The Bee Gees - How Deep Is Your Love.  I can't wait!  On Saturday night we're planning to have dinner at a wonderful tapas place that I was introduced to earlier this week.  It's called Eclipse di Luna - Miami Circle location (www.eclipsediluna.com).  The food is fantastic and it's a fun atmosphere.  So, you'd like to join us, you're more than welcome!

I wish you all traveling grace as you travel to Atlanta to celebrate Little Sister or wherever you're headed this much needed holiday weekend. 

Much love to you ALL!!!
Tshombe, Little Sister, and Skip!

The Circle of Life ~ 8.20.11

Hi peeps,

This Saturday morning finds me in Miami preparing to attend my grandmother's funeral.  Some were concerned about me flying and others were concerned about me attending the funeral while pregnant, but there was no way that I would miss my saying good-bye to her.  Last night I had the chance to reconnect with so many family members that I haven't seen in years.  I truly feel like Skip! because everyone greets me with a loving bellyrub.  :-)  I am the last grand to FINALLY have my own little one and the mere fact that I'm pregnant falls into the category of "most unlikely of events to happen - like getting struck by lightning or winning the lottery," so after the sheer amazement is expressed, everyone is so happy for me. 

At today's service, The Blackbirds (the 8 grandkids) will stand up to reflect on what Grandma has taught us.  My grandmother wasn't one for deep philosophical discussions, she led by example.  What she gave to me was a love of family.  Long after she had raised her kids, she lovingly and willingly raised her sister's infant after her sister passed and her twin brother's daughter after her mother passed in childbirth.  In addition to taking on the rearing of these two babies, my grandmother was a strong presence in the lives of all the kids who were left behind after these tragedies.  As I now prepare to become a mother, I can now fully appreciate the significance of my grandmother's life.  She never said to us that we must "have each other's back," but her actions instilled that in each and every one of us.  Many thanked my mom and uncles for "sharing their mother" but I know that Grandma wouldn't have had it any other way.  So as we prepare to say good-bye today, I know that she is in heaven smiling down on us all for continuing to have each other's back.  And although Little Sister won't be here for another few months (12 weeks to be exact), I rest easy knowing that she is being born into a family that will ALWAYS have her back.  And that's the most important thing in life.  We love you, Mommy and will miss you dearly.

I hope everybody is having a blessed Saturday and remember, LOVE ONE ANOTHER!

Tshombe, Little Sister & Skip!

No great thing is created suddenly... ~ 6.24.11

"No great thing is created suddenly.  There must be time.  Give your best and always be kind." ~ Epictetus

Truer words have never been spoken.  This quote really speaks to me this week as I enter week #20 - THE HALFWAY POINT!  So far the worst thing about my pregnancy has been THE WAIT!  I cannot wait to see what Little Sister is gonna look like.  Will she have the B lightbulb head?  Will she have BIG eyebrows?   Next year this time will she have Daddy-O's front teeth gap?  Will she be born wearing glasses and reading a book?  Don't laugh...it's not outside the realm of possibilities.  :-)  But, I know the wait is all part of the process and the possibilities are endless...

Little Sister had a fantastic visit from Auntie D last week.  It was so good to see and hug my big sister!  We had a great day after I talked her into ditching her Saturday conference sessions.  I'm all about ditching conferences to shop, eat, relax, shoot the breeze...right Ally-Oop?  :-)  I even talked Daddy-O into ditching work to hang out with us for a while.

So, I started the new gig last week.  Today marks the end of week #2.  Yes, now I'm in the habit of counting weeks for everything.  :-)  I really, really, really, like it.  The people are nice, the work is rewarding and they have a filtered water/ice machine in the break room (it's the little things).  Big Sister has suggested that I buy flavored syrup to make sno-cones at work.  :-)  I've spent the last two weeks getting oriented, meeting with my team and learning more about the organization.  We had our first staff meeting on Wednesday and I shared that I was pregnant.  I knew it was time because I was getting looks like, "Is she or isn't she?," so I put an end to the curious glances.  They were all very excited for me.  I feel like this will be a place where I will work for the next several years. I'm already making plans to foster collaborative relationships between my new team and my former colleagues at the State to work on some "cool stuff."   

Many of you have asked for updates on my grandmother.  She is now in an assisted living facility.  She has good days and bad days.  :-(  Please continue to hold her in your prayers.  Mommy is down in Miami with her.  Keep her in your prayers too.  She'll soon be returning to ATL to begin Operation Grandma Extraordinaire for the 10th time!  :-)

Wishing you all a fun and fabulous weekend.  Stay cool and drink lots of water!!!

Love,
Tshombe, Little Sister...and Skip!

P.S. I was chastised last time for forgetting to add Skip! to the signature line.  SORRY!  It won't happen again.

It's A Girl!!! ~ 6.3.11

OK, I know that's old news for you guys, but I still love to say it.  This week and last week have been pretty awesome.  A lot of firsts for Little Sister.  B is her middle name, first name is undecided.  But, I can give you a hint...it's not Clara, Daisy or Wilbur.  :-)  Little Sister attended her first concert (Incognito) last week with  and had a blast.  She also traveled to Florida for the first time to take Mommy back home.  :-(  We're on our own now until the Fall.  And she heard her grandaddy's voice for the first time when he surprised us in Florida with a haul of mangoes and lychee nuts!!  We were both happy campers.

I had two doc appointments yesterday.  The perinatalogist did detailed measurements of her organs and all is well.  Her brain is perfect.  It looks like a little butterfly.  It's estimated that she weighs 5 oz.  Her little legs look like frog legs.  It's the coolest thing.  Modern technology is amazing.  I had blood drawn for my second trimester testing, which will reconfirm the results from the first round of tests and will test for other potential genetic problems.  But, we're claiming 100% normal results again!  :-)  I go back in 4 weeks to discuss the test results and for a fetal echocardiogram to ensure that her heart is developing properly.  So we are cruising into week #17.

On another note, I'll probably be headed to Miami next week to see my Grandmother.  She's not doing well, so I ask all of you to keep her in your prayers.  One of my greatest wishes is for her to be able to hold and kiss my little pumpkin.  I pray that it is His will for this to happen.

And as Bartles & Jaymes famously quipped...THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Much love,

Tshombe...and Little Sister  :-)

Sweet Sixteen ~ 5.19.11

Hi Peeps!

I missed my weekly update last week because I was on the verge of sharing BIG news, but I wasn't at liberty to share just yet.  So, I held off in sending my weekly missive because I knew that I'd be too tempted to tell if I wrote. 

So anyway, later on that; first let me tell you what's going on with Little Sister.  :-)  Well, The Baby is rockin' and rollin' along into week #16.  Most importantly, I received the results from my first trimester testing.  The risk for Down syndrome for a woman of my age is 1 in 25.  Based on my test results, the risk of Little Sister having this is 1 in 130!  Also, the general pregnancy population risk for a trisomy defect is 1 in 100; based on my test results, the risk of Little Sister having this is 1 in 10,000!  God is good!  THANK YOU all for praying for the baby's good health.  So, my doc feels an amnio is unnecessary, so I won't be taking the risk of doing this procedure.

I think I've felt The Baby kick once or twice.  It was a very quick, but distinct, tap coming from the inside.  It wasn't gas or a cramp, it was someone knocking from the inside saying, "HEY!"  :-)  I haven't felt it since, but I've read that the baby's movement will become much more noticeable in the coming weeks.  Other than that, things have been uneventful...as long as I DO NOT get hungry.  Once I get hungry, it's a whole 'nother story.  Most of you know that when I get hungry, I can get a little grumpy (understatement), but The Baby takes it to a new level.  Now I don't get grumpy, I just hurl without warning.  So, all your advice about keeping saltines close-by has been heeded closely. 

I finally announced that I'm pregnant using the world's best grapevine...Facebook!  The response and love that I received was phenomenal!  My MCC friends were sooooo excited for me.  Mommy said, "Good Lord, do you know all these people?"  :-)  Although I know that everything happens for a reason, I wish I was living in Tampa while going through this because that's where my biggest support system is.  That's not to say that I don't have phenomenal friends here, but I just don't have as many.  My friends here have indulged my selective laziness when I say I don't want to do something because, "I'm pregnant."  I'm enjoying being chauffeured around town.  :-)  THANKS RS!

Some of you guys has asked me about a baby shower and whether I'll be coming to Tampa.  Given the new job, it is highly doubtful that I'll be coming to Tampa any time soon.  Obviously I have to save every available hour of time off for my maternity leave.  So, the shower will be in Atlanta, probably in late September/early October, and you're invited!!  Of course Carmen Jones is on the j-o-b and is coordinating from afar.  I just haven't given it much thought with all that's going on with the new job (and I'm moving to a new apartment on July 1), but I will firm up some plans soon since most of you will have to make travel plans if you want to attend.  Also, everyone I'm writing is someone who is very near and dear to my heart.  If you want to come up to ATL at anytime over the summer, mi casa es su casa.  I'll soon be leaving the swanky highrise (I'll soon have daycare bills to pay), but the new place is just as nice and you will still get a good old fashioned Skip welcome to my home.  :-)

So, I think I've rattled on and on enough for now.  :-)  I can't thank you enough for the friendship, love, well wishes and prayers.  I'm so lucky to have you all in my life and so is Little Sister.

Tshombe

Happy Mother's Day ~ 5.6.11

Hi guys,

Some of you have written asking for your weekly update, so sorry for the delay.  :-)  I'm so glad to know that you're enjoying my little missives about this incredible journey I (we) now find ourselves on.  I've had a pretty good week wrapping up week #13.  That means tomorrow begins week #14 - the start of my second trimester!!!!  WOO HOO!

Mommy arrived on Saturday and I can't begin to tell you what a blessing she has been. She has gone with me to my doctor's appointments and held my hand and marveled at the beauty of modern day technology.  She was in total awe of seeing The Baby for the first time on the ultrasound.  Oh, and by the way, The Baby has inherited my sleep gene.  The technician tried to wake the baby up to no avail.  When the baby did wake up, (s)he moved about for 1-2 minutes, then almost instantaneously went back to sleep.  It was the weirdest thing.  One minute The Baby was moving around, then the next the baby was sound asleep.  That's my girl/boy!  :-)   I had my first trimester testing to test for potential genetic problems.  I am already claiming that my tests will come back 100% normal and this baby will be born healthy, happy and a lil bit sleepy.  :-)  And I thank you for your prayers for the same.

I want to wish you all a Happy Mother's Day!  Mommy has informed me that I cannot celebrate Mother's Day this year (and that I have to cook dinner for her), but that's OK.  It's a blessing and an honor to spend one day taking care of her.  Since she has been here, she has made her world famous oatmeal for me every morning, has dinner ready for me in the evening and ALWAYS has a word of encouragement for me.  She has truly set the bar high for me to emulate.  The Baby will be a true superstar if I can be half the mother to him/her as my Mommy is to me.  *sniff sniff*

So, hugs and kisses to you all! 

Tshombe...Skip & The Baby

Lucky 13 ~ 4.29.11

Hi guys,

Guess what?!?  Tomorrow, The Baby and I complete week 12 and then it's on to WEEK #13 ...also known as the LAST WEEK of the first trimester!!  WOO HOO!  We've been in Chapel Hill, NC this week at a leadership retreat.  The Baby could not have been better once I got here. Week #11's drama continued into week #12 as I made a world tour of throwing up in various and sundry grocery store parking lots last weekend.  Luckily I haven't had any such mishaps here.  The food has been pretty good and the property is very serene, so all is well.

Thanks to Facebook, Miss Deeeeeee saw that I was in Raleigh this week and she commented that she would be here too.  As fate would have it, we are at the same hotel.  So, we've been able to hang out a bit and I was able to share my news with her in person.  Talk about surprised!!!  :-)

So, thank God for seeing us through another week.  We're headed back to Atlanta today and tomorrow Mommy arrives!!!  And then the fun really begins!  :-)

Much love,

Tshombe

A VERY Good Friday ~ 4.22.11

Ladies and gentleman,

I am pleased to announce that I am officially entering WEEK TWELVE of my pregnancy!  I know my excitement may get lost via e-mail, but trust me, if you want to know how I feel, click here and go to 59 sec.   Week #12 is significant because the risk for a miscarriage drops greatly at this point.  I know you've all been praying unceasingly for a healthy outcome for The Baby; reaching this milestone is so significant.  But, according to Mr. B, week 12 means nada because, "Ain't nothing gonna happen to that baby!  You're a B!  You were born to breed!"  Gee, thanks Daddy.  But, considering the fact that this is B grandbaby #10, I think he may be on to something.  :-)

This week was a bit rough in the beginning, but it's finishing up smoothly.  The Baby finally got me (Mommy thinks it's because I was so proud of the fact that I haven't had any morning sickness).  Well, that point of pride was shattered when I threw up in the Publix parking lot on Monday.  I couldn't even find a potted plant to hurl in (Bestie, I know you know what I mean).  :-)  But, I was not going to be defeated...I started feeling sick in Publix because of the smell of the rotisserie chicken, but I was able to make it out with my watermelon in hand.  I swear, I can eat watermelon for breakfast, lunch and dinner, I mean breakfastlunchanddinnah!  Listen, I hear someone's stomach growling...quick, get me some watermelon!  Yes, I had to go there..and you know why?  Cause the rent is too damn high!  :-)

Speaking of, Tampa peeps, thanks for all your realtor recommendations.  I'm gonna be reaching out to folks on Monday because that day is Confederate Memorial Day in the lovely state of Georgia and all state employees have the day off.  So I say, YEE HAW... I can use a day off!  For those of you who don't know, I'm starting to look at selling my Tampa place because life is becoming a bit too complicated and I don't feel like continuing to be a long distance landlord.  As Marvin Gaye says, I got to give it up.  (Can y'all tell that I love YouTube?)

Well lovelies, that's it for now.  Keep the good vibes coming!  The Baby, Daddy-O and I are most appreciative.

Have a blessed Easter,
Tshombe

TEN DOWN! ~ 4.15.11

We are rolling along through another week.  As we chug into week #11, I can faintly see the light at the end of the first trimester tunnel!!!  As you know, I had a chance to see the little pumpkin on Wednesday during my appointment at See Baby.  Looking at the pictures, I think (s)he has probably inherited the Big Feet gene.  The foot was the clearest thing on the ultrasound.  :-)   My next appointments with my doctors aren't until May 5, so hopefully things will remain quiet and uneventful until then. 

Since we're all amongst friends, as most of y'all have suggested and I have dreaded, my boobs are rapidly expanding.  I keep trying to tell them telepathically that I am only getting ready to feed ONE baby, not all the troops in Iraq, but that doesn't seem to be working.  So, I'm torn with whether I should go bra shopping now, or if I need to wait in case they continue to grow.  At any rate, all I can think about is this musical number from Beaches as I contemplate my need for a new Over the Shoulder Boulder Holder.  I swear, if I end up looking like homechick at 26 sec, I will just DIE!!!  :-) 

But, it's all good!  The most important thing is that The Baby is snug as a bug in a rug.  Just keep the good vibes coming!!!

Much love,

Tshombe

Nine Down! ~ 4.9.11

The Baby just completed nine weeks and we're off to week ten!  Unfortunately this week did not pass without incident.  :-(  It was quite the rollercoaster.  I had an episode of bleeding, but luckily this happened right as I was heading to my first OB appointment.  My doctor was beyond phenomenal in calming my frayed nerves.  And what started off as a nerve-wracking appointment ended in all smiles as he showed me my itty bitty baby on ultrasound.  It's truly a miracle and I am so thankful.  I can't thank Dr. T enough for recommending Dr. Brown.  So, I've spent the last few days in bed taking it easy.  Nurse Chip is on the j-o-b as usual and is taking care of his mama.  :-)  Daddy-O has been a trooper too and has happily humored my frequent grocery store run requests for watermelon, watermelon and MORE WATERMELON!!!  :-)

Next week I'm off to See Baby (www.seebaby.org) for another ultrasound and a discussion with the doctor about first trimester testing.  Since I'm AMA (advanced maternal age) - a nice way to say I'm an "old mama," they well probably recommend different tests to make sure that everything is OK with the baby.  I'm torn about this.  If any of you have gone through this (amniocentesis or CVS), please share your experience with me.

So, thanks for all the love, concern and PRAYERS that you've sent my way.  I truly appreciate it!

Love,
Tshombe

In the beginning...

During my pregnancy, I sent periodic update e-mails to my family and friends.  I guess I should have started this blog back then, but who can think straight when they're pregnant?!?  So, now I'm going to take the time to post them on Parenting Under the Influence because this was some of my most witty, heartfelt and emotional writings.  Of course names will be changed to protect the innocent, but if you can figure who folks are, more power to you.  It has been nice re-reading what was basically my pregnancy journal.  I hope you enjoy reliving the experience with me as well.

The Big Day

The day started out like any other day...if any other day usually starts with being in the hospital praying for an anesthesiologist to show up to place one's epidural.  But, in spite of that minor inconvenience, it was the most incredible day of my life and at 5:22a on November 4, my "ordinary day" transformed into the most extraordinary day of all.

Welcome to my blog.  First off, do not call DHS or HRS on me because of the title.  I am parenting under the influence of nothing but love.  I selected the title because I have been told by friends and family that I am going to be a pushover mom; I am totally enraptured by Little Sister.  I call her "Little Sister" because I always wanted one and to protect the innocent.  Check back often to hear about my adventures in life, love and parenting the most awesome little girl I've ever met!