Big Things Are Happening
I still enjoy playing video games, sleeping in, and being a little goofy. But, every-so-often I’m struck by the very “grown-up” things going on in my life. Preparing for a newborn is probably the biggest example.
February
Jocie is pregnant and set to deliver in early February. She hasn’t experienced much nausea or morning sickness and things seem to be right on track. The uncertain sonographer told us it will be a girl. This is our first child, and we are very excited.
Getting Ready
So with a little one on the way, our home project focus has shifted. I had intended to replace a piece of drywall above the bay window next (after finishing the floors). But, instead I’ll be building some massive shelves to store the amazing amount of baby stuff we have / will be getting. We’re converting the office into a nursery, not to mention baby-proofing some of the house. There’s a lot to do!
My Posts
You’ll have to forgive me when I surprise you with the occasional post about setting up a baby gate, or finding the right crib. This is a major change for us, and I’m sure it’ll trickle down to what I write about. I’m really looking forward to sharing some of the baby-oriented-home-improvement challenges and successes with our OPC readers (and getting your knowledgeable feedback)! Don’t worry. I’ll still demolish things, chop wood, and ____________________.
(insert manly activity)
What do you think? So what words of wisdom do you have?
Image courtesy of Raphael Goetter
October 4th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
No words of wisdom. (All my kids have fur!) Just a very heartfelt congratulations!
October 4th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Words of wisdom? Hmm…
1) Babies are tougher than you think!
2) Get as many sleep-in mornings as you can before February
3) Enjoy
Congratulations
October 4th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Ethan,
Congratulations! I remember when my daughter was born, it is a life changing experience. Also, re: uncertain sonographer, just because they didn’t see “it” doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Chances are they are right and it’s a girl, but it could go either way.
Also echo comment above about sleep, but I wouldn’t worry about it too much. The lack of sleep is so worth it.
October 4th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
No advice here either - I just want to say congrats and good luck!
October 4th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Ethan,
Congratulations!! If you can get away before February take a short trip and enjoy each other. After February things will most certainly change. No pressure on baby proofing for awhile as the little bundle of joy won’t be able to get into things for months. Have fun with the nursery and welcome to the club!
October 4th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
I’ll be turning to you for tips in a couple years. So ’til then, congrats!!
October 4th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
How wonderful for you! Mazel tov!
I guess my “words of wisdom” (aka two cents worth) are:
- You’ll need a lot less STUFF than you think you will; For example, I know plenty of fancy changing tables that are passed along practically unused, because the floor or bed or sofa usually ends up being more convenient.
- Plan to exchange at least half of the cute outfits that you’ll receive as baby gifts for onesies and pajamas and practical clothes for when she’s no longer a newborn, because she’ll grow out of the newborn stuff in a heartbeat.
- Plan now for several spots throughout the house to stash diapers and wipes, and later for several spots throughout the house to stash toys.
- Don’t go all hyper sanitary on her, which is one of the things that seem common to new parents. Kids are actually healthier in the end if you let their immune systems develop without sanitizing everything in sight.
- Get a baby sling so that you can “wear” the baby but still have two hands free, especially during those times when she does not want to be put down no matter what you do.
OK that’s enough of this grinning grandma’s ramblings!!
October 4th, 2008 at 11:37 pm
Hey Ethan and Jocie,
A Hearty congratulations to you both again. In reading your post, I realized I have a gate that you guys may be interested in. It’s a pressure mounted one that opens and closes without having to take it down or climb it (hands free). It hard for little ones to climp because it’s metal and the bars go up and down. We used it for our daughter’s room to keep her in and the dog and cat out. That way once she started climbing out of her crip which took awhile, we didn’t have to worry about the steps. Then she figured out how to pull something over to stand on and climp over. It’s white so let us or Fred and Kim know if you are interested. Sorry to babble just a topic I enjoy.
October 5th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Yippee! Without a doubt, the baby posts will be my favorite ones…sorry to everyone there. I’ll enjoy watching you two grow your family! WOOHOO!
No advice other than to go with YOUR gut. YOUR instinct is probaby right and best for YOUR baby. And no matter what you decide, you can find an expert who will agree. (cause the experts never agree, so someone is bound to feel your way)
Enjoy that tiny baby…she’ll (or he’ll) be turning 6 before you know it…sigh.
October 6th, 2008 at 8:54 am
Thanks for all your thoughts and kind words. Jocie and I are definitely going to enjoy our sleep-in mornings while we still can.