Nothing exciting in this post... more for me to remember when my Attiboy gets older...
2 Day Appointment
We went to Cary Pediatrics in Apex. He had lost a little weight (7lb 4oz). My milk had just come in, so I didn't know anything to ask about breast-feeding. At this point he was struggling to sleep at night. We were up with him most of the night. I think he may have been too cold because he went right to sleep when we would put him in our bed.
He was born with a large "storch bite" on the back of his neck and also smalls ones on his right eyelid, forehead and nose. I hated it at first because I knew people were looking at it, but now I absolutely love the one on his forehead. I hope the one on his eye and nose go away. The doctor said they should go away by 18 months.
At this point I was scared to leave him alone at all. Billy had lots to do during the day, between running errands and helping with pole barn, so I just watched TV, fed the baby, and never set him down.
2 Week Appointment
He had regained the weight, and some (7lb 12oz). He was the same length (21 in.).
They reassured us that his eye infection was just a blocked duct.
He had developed a schedule through the night (midnight, 3am, 6ish am, 9ish am) and went to sleep easily after being fed. He was pretty fussy from 3-5pm and I think in retrospect it was a combination of being a little cold and wanting more to eat. He would cluster feed often (eat 2-3 times in two hours and then not eat for 3-4 hours).
He was a crazy wiggly baby during this time - constantly moving and stretching in his sleep.
He LOVED windows and light and was very curious about everything around him.
The only way to calm him when he wasn't hungry was to put him tummy to tummy and sing or hum to him.
At this point I was having a really hard time burping him, I was concerned still about the storch bite on his eye, had questions about his chin quivering, and basically freaking out about everything.
I had finally regained my appetite after a short bout with the baby blues. BABY BLUES AINT NO JOKE! I boo-hooed to Seth singing a horrible karaoke rendition of Adele's Hometown Glory. I was never too worried about myself... I mean, I know myself and I knew I would be okay, but I think I scared my poor mom with my inability to go an hour without crying.
2 Month Appointment - 19 March
5200 g - 11 lbs 7.425 oz
58 cm - 22.83 in
Around the two month appointment, I was feeding him every 2-3 hours, and the doctor fussed at me that it was too much, so we slowly reduced it to every four hours.
He started smiling on purpose around two months and has been smiling a lot ever since. Especially in the mornings, he cannot make it through a feeding without laughing several times. I cannot make eye contact with him or he will stop eating and just smile and laugh.
He slept through the night for the first time on April 7, and has been pretty consistent since.
He still likes to move around and gets bored really, really easily. Walks results in a nap immediately. It became a little much, so we bought the Baby Bjorn babysitter, and he loves it. It makes me feel like I am being lazy sometimes by just putting him in it, but he loves to bounce. Usually when he is especially fussy, I can always calm him by standing up, putting him on my shoulder, and bouncing.
Everyone tells us he is really strong, but I do not have anything to compare him to, so I have no idea. He can do a "baby push up" and hold his head up, but it is still a bit unsteady. He HATES being on his tummy unless we are playing airplane or he is napping on Billy.
3 Month Appointment
6700 g - 14 lbs 12.336 oz
63 cm - 24.8 in
Feedings and bedtime are pretty consistent. He wakes up around 6:30 or 7 ready to eat and then I empty the milk jugs just before I leave at 8. He eats again around 11 and 3, and then I feed him as soon as I get off work. I feed him once more around 9 or 10 and then he goes straight to bed. He usually talks a bit to himself in bed before falling asleep 10-20 minutes later. On rare occasion he cries while trying to go to sleep, but I walk in, give him a pacifier and rub his tummy. Then I leave and he goes to sleep shortly there after.
Pumping at work is going ok. I am not able to build up much of a stash, but if we ever need it, I do keep formula on hand since what I pump is eaten the next day.
Tuesdays I go to basketball so B has him the full day. Wednesdays Billy has practice. Fridays we both have practice, so I take Atti with me to practice and he has his first babysitter, Jessica, to watch him during that time.
He has JUST started paying attention to the books when I read them to him. He LOVES The Rainbow Fish that Manu gave him because it is so colorful.
He loves to talk and coo, and gets especially excited him I imitate him. He also really enjoys the baby mat + toys that the Tebbutts left with us. He doesn't like his swing and I think that is because there is a big bar over him that blocks his view.
As for weight loss, we are not going to discuss that :).
April 15, 2013
Atticus Adventures
I find it really hard to blog... not that I do not have time, because let's face it, if I can watch The Colbert Report and Girls every week, then I can certainly take 30 minutes to blog. The problem is that I just do not have any desire... however I know I would love to go back and read this one day, so I will try.
2013 HIGHLIGHTS
Day 1 - March 8
We drove from Nuremberg down to Lucca.
Visually stunning: nothing compares to driving through northern Italy
Financially stunning: the tolls along the way
Frighteningly stunning: trying to control a 115lb mastiff in the back of a car and breast-feed a baby while an innocent and friendly Italian decides he want to talk to you about italian weather in the rain
Refreshingly stunning: arriving at the most peaceful, artistically decorated, just plain gorgeous cabin in the middle of Italy and realizing you get to stay here for a week
Day 2 - March 9
Found a great market for produce and cheese, explored medieval Lucca, made up our own sign language to order items from the cheese store and deli, had an amazing amazing amazing dinner at a local spot recommended by the landlord.
Day 3 - March 10
Relaxed in our villa.
Day 4 - March 11
CINQUE TERRE - and wouldn't you know that torrential rains resulted in all the hiking paths closed. Had we been able to hike, I think that I would have absolutely love it. Unfortunately were were only able to visit the towns by train and I found it a bit overpriced and overtouristed. Highlight was definitely getting swarmed by Asians wanted to take pictures of Atticus.
Day 5 - March 12
Took off in search of the infamous Dario the Butcher. We found his deli and were treated to the most amazing meat dishes ever... BEEF SUSHI yall! Ventured on to Sienna... interesting, but without a formal tour guide, found it a bit boring.
Day 6 - March 13
Relaxed in our villa.
Day 7 - March 14
Took the train to Florence for an amazing atmosphere and over-priced everything. Would love to tour the city sometime without the little monster in tow. He was fantastic, but I have a new appreciation for seeing a city with a knowledgeable guide after Paris.
Day 8 - March 15
Drove home and enjoyed the views along the way.
CHODOVAR
On a recommendation from our friends we decided to check out the beer spa just over the Czech-German border and boy were we satisfied! After a night away with our boy, two full massages, two beer baths, and a big Czech meal, our wallets were still practically full and our bodies were relaxed.
According to the website, "Beer Baths are an original curative spa therapy combining remedial effects of warm mineral water, beer, ingredients for brewing beer, products of the brewing process and classical as well as special massages. The aim of the baths involves harmonizing functions of the organism, mental rest, recondition and relaxation. The procedures have curative effects on the complexion and hair, relieve muscle tension, warm up joints and support immune system of the organism. For better rejuvenating results I recommend to accompany the original beer treatment with a partial massage aimed at problematic body parts or a full body massage reducing muscle tension."
PARIS
During one tipsy bingo night with the girls, we decided it was time for another getaway to be planned. We wanted our darling Inge to join us, and the only place we could really get her to agree to was Paris... so off to Paris we went. My sweet friends did all of the planning, and they found an AMAZING apartment just down the street from the Lourve. To save money we drove and a friend of one of my friends agreed to let us use his parking spot for the weekend... this led to me pushing my 2 month old in his stroller and towing my bag through Paris after midnight... I couldn't help but be thankful there wasn't anyone around that could judge me. I also broke my "keep it real" communication style goal... the girls were helping me with Atticus's stuff and at times kind of struggling. Instead of asking, I just assumed they were getting annoyed with me and my crap, so I was just all "let me do it". It resulted in minor, minor, minor tension, but it could have all been avoided if I was more straight forward because I would have KNOWN they wanted to help instead of ASSUMED they were annoyed.
We walked and walked and walked. Anyone that knows me, knows that I LOVE to walk, so I was so thankful that these girls were game and soooooo helpful with Atticus. We skipped Musee d'Orsay because of the line, but I really hope to return one day. We did catch the Catacombs (taking a baby through a 2k maze of bones underground may not be the best idea, but wth) and the best of off the beaten path. We enjoyed an AMAZING lunch with FABULOUS decor the first day ... the beef tartare was the best I have ever had.
I will never forget the breakfast beer, the Joan of Arc statue, breast feeding under the Eifel, the guy with the soccer ball at the Sacre Couer, die Inge DRIVING around the Arc de Triomphe, the priest singing in the Notre Dame, getting to know Brandi, and having Inge get annoyed with me because I only wanted to drive the straight drive on flat, open ground.... :)
2013 HIGHLIGHTS
- NC State vs. Duke bball game LIVE
- Getting to watch college basketball for the first time in two years
- Returning to Germany with Atticus - he was wonderful on the plane, our neighbors welcomed us with gifts we will never forget (cute clothes... including an honorary hoodie for the motorcycle club and a "made in Franken" tshirt, hand crocheted blanket, gift card to BabyOne, The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister)
- Bingo Nights with the girls
- Frülingsfest with the Tebbutts before they returned to the US
- Little Luke Tebbutt's baptism
- First vacation with Atticus to Tuscany
- Return to work
- Chodovar Beer Spa
- Paris with the girls
- Basketball
Day 1 - March 8
We drove from Nuremberg down to Lucca.
Visually stunning: nothing compares to driving through northern Italy
Financially stunning: the tolls along the way
Frighteningly stunning: trying to control a 115lb mastiff in the back of a car and breast-feed a baby while an innocent and friendly Italian decides he want to talk to you about italian weather in the rain
Refreshingly stunning: arriving at the most peaceful, artistically decorated, just plain gorgeous cabin in the middle of Italy and realizing you get to stay here for a week
Day 2 - March 9
Found a great market for produce and cheese, explored medieval Lucca, made up our own sign language to order items from the cheese store and deli, had an amazing amazing amazing dinner at a local spot recommended by the landlord.
Day 3 - March 10
Relaxed in our villa.
Day 4 - March 11
CINQUE TERRE - and wouldn't you know that torrential rains resulted in all the hiking paths closed. Had we been able to hike, I think that I would have absolutely love it. Unfortunately were were only able to visit the towns by train and I found it a bit overpriced and overtouristed. Highlight was definitely getting swarmed by Asians wanted to take pictures of Atticus.
Day 5 - March 12
Took off in search of the infamous Dario the Butcher. We found his deli and were treated to the most amazing meat dishes ever... BEEF SUSHI yall! Ventured on to Sienna... interesting, but without a formal tour guide, found it a bit boring.
Day 6 - March 13
Relaxed in our villa.
Day 7 - March 14
Took the train to Florence for an amazing atmosphere and over-priced everything. Would love to tour the city sometime without the little monster in tow. He was fantastic, but I have a new appreciation for seeing a city with a knowledgeable guide after Paris.
Day 8 - March 15
Drove home and enjoyed the views along the way.
CHODOVAR
On a recommendation from our friends we decided to check out the beer spa just over the Czech-German border and boy were we satisfied! After a night away with our boy, two full massages, two beer baths, and a big Czech meal, our wallets were still practically full and our bodies were relaxed.
According to the website, "Beer Baths are an original curative spa therapy combining remedial effects of warm mineral water, beer, ingredients for brewing beer, products of the brewing process and classical as well as special massages. The aim of the baths involves harmonizing functions of the organism, mental rest, recondition and relaxation. The procedures have curative effects on the complexion and hair, relieve muscle tension, warm up joints and support immune system of the organism. For better rejuvenating results I recommend to accompany the original beer treatment with a partial massage aimed at problematic body parts or a full body massage reducing muscle tension."
PARIS
During one tipsy bingo night with the girls, we decided it was time for another getaway to be planned. We wanted our darling Inge to join us, and the only place we could really get her to agree to was Paris... so off to Paris we went. My sweet friends did all of the planning, and they found an AMAZING apartment just down the street from the Lourve. To save money we drove and a friend of one of my friends agreed to let us use his parking spot for the weekend... this led to me pushing my 2 month old in his stroller and towing my bag through Paris after midnight... I couldn't help but be thankful there wasn't anyone around that could judge me. I also broke my "keep it real" communication style goal... the girls were helping me with Atticus's stuff and at times kind of struggling. Instead of asking, I just assumed they were getting annoyed with me and my crap, so I was just all "let me do it". It resulted in minor, minor, minor tension, but it could have all been avoided if I was more straight forward because I would have KNOWN they wanted to help instead of ASSUMED they were annoyed.
We walked and walked and walked. Anyone that knows me, knows that I LOVE to walk, so I was so thankful that these girls were game and soooooo helpful with Atticus. We skipped Musee d'Orsay because of the line, but I really hope to return one day. We did catch the Catacombs (taking a baby through a 2k maze of bones underground may not be the best idea, but wth) and the best of off the beaten path. We enjoyed an AMAZING lunch with FABULOUS decor the first day ... the beef tartare was the best I have ever had.
I will never forget the breakfast beer, the Joan of Arc statue, breast feeding under the Eifel, the guy with the soccer ball at the Sacre Couer, die Inge DRIVING around the Arc de Triomphe, the priest singing in the Notre Dame, getting to know Brandi, and having Inge get annoyed with me because I only wanted to drive the straight drive on flat, open ground.... :)
February 25, 2013
Atticus C Arrington is HERE!
Atticus C Arrington arrived January 20th at 11:50 pm, exactly one week late.
He decided he would spare me the induction scheduled for 7am the next morning, so my water broke at 8pm. After thinking I had peed on myself and throwing my pants into the wash, my contractions started immediately 4-5 minutes apart. I spent 30 minutes on the toilet thinking it was horrible gas pains, and then went to pacing around the kitchen like a mad woman. Maggie and Mom timed my contractions and kept asking for severity. They all seemed super strong to me, as the pain was so strong that my body kept threatening me to throw up at the end of each contraction.
Finally Billy talked my mom into letting him call the doctor. They told us to come on in... Billy went into mad man mode, packing up everything, including my lip glosses (????) and chicken wings and pizza (really????). During this time he knocked my earring holder and all of my earrings all over the floor and ran into the kitchen only to shatter a large glass all over that floor. I screamed "You need to chill!" in the middle of a contraction, and my mom countered with "He is just excited and trying to help." On my exhale I managed to get out "Well he is stressing me out." Thankfully I apologized in the car on the way to the hospital.
Maggie drove Billy and me, and Mom and Butch followed behind. Maggie was so skilled at comforting me through my contractions, letting me squeeze her hand, and managing to safely drive us 45 minutes to the hospital! Mom said she knew when a contraction occurred because Maggie would speed up 10 mph and then a minute later be back down at the speed limit.
Maggie claimed an alien came out of me as we neared the hospital. As she rounded the exit, I begged her to slow down and then when we got to the hospital, sweet Billy was trying to get me dropped at the door, but I yelled, "turn RIIIIIIIGGGGHHHHTTT" in a voice that she couldn't ignore. We got out and made our way to the door, but my legs gave out on me as body collapsed in chills. Mags covered me in her coat and we made it to the door.
They offered me a wheelchair, but I couldn't sit, so Billy and I headed up to the birthing floor at 10:45pm. Now was Billy's time to shine. He was so good and so kind and so encouraging as I tried to pee in a cup and was put into the bed.
The nurse checked me and I was 8cm dilated. I could tell by her reaction that we were in a race against the clock and baby at this point. After two more contractions, I involuntarily started pushing with just the nurse in the room. She told me to try not to, as I was going to strain my cervix, but it couldn't be controlled. I said, "OK, then I am going to poooooooooooooop."
The doctor had not arrived yet, and I could tell the nurse was getting anxious as she called for more help. They were able to get my IV in as I asked for an epidural. The nurse kindly let me know that wasn't going to be an option. I was pretty scared at this point and Billy was so encouraging, yelling "Ohhh shoot this is about to happen. You got this Boo!! This is happening!!!" It was so cute. He continued to try in vain to get me an epidural, but it wasn't going to happen. The doctor arrived and checked me. She said the baby would likely be born that night and not on the 21st. She calmly told me with each contraction we were going to push. After four contractions, intense sweating, intense shivers in between each one, Atticus came flying out. I remember seeing the doctor catch him vaguely and I remember being scared about the placenta coming, but it being painless. Then the happiest moment of the night was watching how excited Billy was. After they let me hold him, we both were shivering so bad that they had to put Atti under a lamp. Billy wouldn't leave his side and there was nothing that could make my heart smile any bigger.
After the birth, the doctor pushed on my uterus, which was really painful and I asked for medication, but since I wanted to try breast feeding immediately, she told me I shouldn't because it could be passed to the baby. I was so thankful I didn't.
Atticus was cleaned up and given his first bath, which Billy filmed. Mom and Maggie came up (for a second time... they came up during the birth, but I turned them away because I was in so much pain).
Nothing could make me happier than seeing them with B and Atticus. Butch came up shortly afterwards and got to meet him and take some pictures for me. After they left, we were moved to our room and reality set in. We had a baby, and it was just Billy, me and Atticus from here on out.
He decided he would spare me the induction scheduled for 7am the next morning, so my water broke at 8pm. After thinking I had peed on myself and throwing my pants into the wash, my contractions started immediately 4-5 minutes apart. I spent 30 minutes on the toilet thinking it was horrible gas pains, and then went to pacing around the kitchen like a mad woman. Maggie and Mom timed my contractions and kept asking for severity. They all seemed super strong to me, as the pain was so strong that my body kept threatening me to throw up at the end of each contraction.
Finally Billy talked my mom into letting him call the doctor. They told us to come on in... Billy went into mad man mode, packing up everything, including my lip glosses (????) and chicken wings and pizza (really????). During this time he knocked my earring holder and all of my earrings all over the floor and ran into the kitchen only to shatter a large glass all over that floor. I screamed "You need to chill!" in the middle of a contraction, and my mom countered with "He is just excited and trying to help." On my exhale I managed to get out "Well he is stressing me out." Thankfully I apologized in the car on the way to the hospital.
Maggie drove Billy and me, and Mom and Butch followed behind. Maggie was so skilled at comforting me through my contractions, letting me squeeze her hand, and managing to safely drive us 45 minutes to the hospital! Mom said she knew when a contraction occurred because Maggie would speed up 10 mph and then a minute later be back down at the speed limit.
Maggie claimed an alien came out of me as we neared the hospital. As she rounded the exit, I begged her to slow down and then when we got to the hospital, sweet Billy was trying to get me dropped at the door, but I yelled, "turn RIIIIIIIGGGGHHHHTTT" in a voice that she couldn't ignore. We got out and made our way to the door, but my legs gave out on me as body collapsed in chills. Mags covered me in her coat and we made it to the door.
They offered me a wheelchair, but I couldn't sit, so Billy and I headed up to the birthing floor at 10:45pm. Now was Billy's time to shine. He was so good and so kind and so encouraging as I tried to pee in a cup and was put into the bed.
The nurse checked me and I was 8cm dilated. I could tell by her reaction that we were in a race against the clock and baby at this point. After two more contractions, I involuntarily started pushing with just the nurse in the room. She told me to try not to, as I was going to strain my cervix, but it couldn't be controlled. I said, "OK, then I am going to poooooooooooooop."
The doctor had not arrived yet, and I could tell the nurse was getting anxious as she called for more help. They were able to get my IV in as I asked for an epidural. The nurse kindly let me know that wasn't going to be an option. I was pretty scared at this point and Billy was so encouraging, yelling "Ohhh shoot this is about to happen. You got this Boo!! This is happening!!!" It was so cute. He continued to try in vain to get me an epidural, but it wasn't going to happen. The doctor arrived and checked me. She said the baby would likely be born that night and not on the 21st. She calmly told me with each contraction we were going to push. After four contractions, intense sweating, intense shivers in between each one, Atticus came flying out. I remember seeing the doctor catch him vaguely and I remember being scared about the placenta coming, but it being painless. Then the happiest moment of the night was watching how excited Billy was. After they let me hold him, we both were shivering so bad that they had to put Atti under a lamp. Billy wouldn't leave his side and there was nothing that could make my heart smile any bigger.
After the birth, the doctor pushed on my uterus, which was really painful and I asked for medication, but since I wanted to try breast feeding immediately, she told me I shouldn't because it could be passed to the baby. I was so thankful I didn't.
Atticus was cleaned up and given his first bath, which Billy filmed. Mom and Maggie came up (for a second time... they came up during the birth, but I turned them away because I was in so much pain).
Nothing could make me happier than seeing them with B and Atticus. Butch came up shortly afterwards and got to meet him and take some pictures for me. After they left, we were moved to our room and reality set in. We had a baby, and it was just Billy, me and Atticus from here on out.
February 24, 2013
My 2 cents
I'm not as good at this blogging thing as Hannah but what I am good at is living life. So I think sharing some of these moments with people give me a chance to give a little incite to the life of the Billz. Atticus C Arrington has entered and changed my life forever. Not having the pleasure of having my father around is what motivates me to be the very best dad around. I admit that sometimes I can cut corners, like laying down to sooth Atticus or allowing Hannah to jump to Atticus's every little cry. I assure you when the bullet meets the bone daddy is there. The little things are so very important and I'm getting better at not being a lazy parent. Atticus is such an amazing kid! Hannah is the closest I've ever came to loving a human this much. Every time I look at him I feel my soul moves and that my friend is life! The "problems" I found to be so aggravating pre Atticus seem to be so miniscule. Things tend to bounce off me at the moment, I'm not sure how long this will last but for the moment things are so clear. Hannah has always been pretty good at time management, me on the other hand.... I kinda do what I want. That has changed.... It's all about the baby! Life will never be the same. Having family around to help the first 4 weeks was a great help for us. When things got a little tough just hand him off to Cha Cha and let her do her magic:) I'm a little nervous about when Hannah goes back to work and it's mano e mano with Atticus. I know things will be just fine when we get our routine machine up and going! See now i'm at the point in this entry where I feel like i'm rambling. Do I sign off or keep talking about myself? Long story short life is good! I love my family, friends and i'm happy. Til next time.
December 31, 2012
2012 Hurricanes
1) DRINKING BUDDY OF THE YEAR
Ben Tebbutt for Billy
2) LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD (longest friend)
Sarah Noland - Friends since middle school... we got to spend time together each time I have visited the US and she drove up for Atticus's shower this month. I am thrilled to get to spend time with her celebrating Spencer's wedding in May.
3) NEWCOMER AWARD - MOST AMAZING NEW ADDITION IN MY LIFE
Die Inge!!! Free spirited, opinionated, strong, fun, open minded, kind
3) HIGH POINT OF THE YEAR
Playing basketball after being retired for a decade
4) LOW POINT OF THE YEAR
Cyprus - struggling to adjust to pregnancy, spent too much money, couldn't pull myself out of the funk
5) BEST HOLIDAY
Walberla
6) SONGS FOR 2012
Mumford - Hopeless Wanderer
LMFAO - Sexy and I Know It (Louie)
Alicia Keys - Girl on Fire
Fun. - Some Nights
Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris - We Found Love
Gotye - Somebody that I Used to Know
7) MOVIES FOR 2012
Les Mis
Hunger Games
Stoked to see Silver Linings Playbook, Zero Dark Thirty, and Lincoln
8) VALENTINE of 2012
Eeeeks I cannot remember
9) BEST RELATIONSHIP of 2012
Mommy... great phone calls and emails
10) Deleted
11) HALLOWEEN COSTUME of 2012
Hot mess... I was too prego to try anything
12) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Huett'n
13) BOOK OF THE YEAR
The Book Thief
14) BEST DECISION MADE THIS YEAR
Hmmm... yet to be determined.
15) PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR
Raise Atticus... travel to Italy, Greece, and somewhere in the Baltic (Norway or Finland)
16) MOST STUPID IDEA WHEN DRUNK in 2012
Erin's Bachelorette Party and falling asleep on the bus on the way home
17) TV SHOW OF THE YEAR
Homeland
18) MOST HONEST and AUTHENTIC FRIEND of 2012
Anna Small
19) BIGGEST CHANGE OF 2012
Pregnancy
20) BIGGEST DOUCHEBAG AWARD
hmmm... douche? Maybe Billz ;)
21) NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION
marathon and keeping it real
22) MOST HUMOROUS EVENT OF 2012
Prague
23) BIGGEST PURCHASE OF 2012
Vacations...
24) DA MISS YA AWARD
Tiffers
25) THE COACH K AWARD FOR BEST ROLE MODEL IN 2012
Probably Ben Borrusch. His work ethic and the way he handles people is impressive and admirable. His ability and courage to speak German also inspires me.
26) THE MAGGIE AUSTIN GENIUS AWARD MOMENT
falling asleep on the bus coming home from Erlangen
27) GREATEST GIFT OF 2012
Coldplay in Hannover!
28) CW AUSTIN AWARD FOR BIGGEST IMPACT
Probably Anna Small again
Ben Tebbutt for Billy
2) LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD (longest friend)
Sarah Noland - Friends since middle school... we got to spend time together each time I have visited the US and she drove up for Atticus's shower this month. I am thrilled to get to spend time with her celebrating Spencer's wedding in May.
3) NEWCOMER AWARD - MOST AMAZING NEW ADDITION IN MY LIFE
Die Inge!!! Free spirited, opinionated, strong, fun, open minded, kind
3) HIGH POINT OF THE YEAR
Playing basketball after being retired for a decade
4) LOW POINT OF THE YEAR
Cyprus - struggling to adjust to pregnancy, spent too much money, couldn't pull myself out of the funk
5) BEST HOLIDAY
Walberla
6) SONGS FOR 2012
Mumford - Hopeless Wanderer
LMFAO - Sexy and I Know It (Louie)
Alicia Keys - Girl on Fire
Fun. - Some Nights
Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris - We Found Love
Gotye - Somebody that I Used to Know
7) MOVIES FOR 2012
Les Mis
Hunger Games
Stoked to see Silver Linings Playbook, Zero Dark Thirty, and Lincoln
8) VALENTINE of 2012
Eeeeks I cannot remember
9) BEST RELATIONSHIP of 2012
Mommy... great phone calls and emails
10) Deleted
11) HALLOWEEN COSTUME of 2012
Hot mess... I was too prego to try anything
12) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Huett'n
13) BOOK OF THE YEAR
The Book Thief
14) BEST DECISION MADE THIS YEAR
Hmmm... yet to be determined.
15) PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR
Raise Atticus... travel to Italy, Greece, and somewhere in the Baltic (Norway or Finland)
16) MOST STUPID IDEA WHEN DRUNK in 2012
Erin's Bachelorette Party and falling asleep on the bus on the way home
17) TV SHOW OF THE YEAR
Homeland
18) MOST HONEST and AUTHENTIC FRIEND of 2012
Anna Small
19) BIGGEST CHANGE OF 2012
Pregnancy
20) BIGGEST DOUCHEBAG AWARD
hmmm... douche? Maybe Billz ;)
21) NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION
marathon and keeping it real
22) MOST HUMOROUS EVENT OF 2012
Prague
23) BIGGEST PURCHASE OF 2012
Vacations...
24) DA MISS YA AWARD
Tiffers
25) THE COACH K AWARD FOR BEST ROLE MODEL IN 2012
Probably Ben Borrusch. His work ethic and the way he handles people is impressive and admirable. His ability and courage to speak German also inspires me.
26) THE MAGGIE AUSTIN GENIUS AWARD MOMENT
falling asleep on the bus coming home from Erlangen
27) GREATEST GIFT OF 2012
Coldplay in Hannover!
28) CW AUSTIN AWARD FOR BIGGEST IMPACT
Probably Anna Small again
Baby Atticus is on the Way
In November my wonderful friends in Germany threw me a Baby Shower. Kelley put it all together with help from Anna, Brooke, and Inge.
Last Saturday, my sister threw me a huge brunch to celebrate Atticus's coming arrival. I was so thankful for all of the amazing gifts and even more that so many people drove to be a part of it.
Last Saturday, my sister threw me a huge brunch to celebrate Atticus's coming arrival. I was so thankful for all of the amazing gifts and even more that so many people drove to be a part of it.
November 14, 2012
...cause it's ladies night and I feel alright...
A little over a year ago I was pretty depressed in Germany and decided I needed to put myself out there if I was going to pull myself out of that funk. Therefore I joined a basketball team and attended my first Chickhaus (ladies expat group) event. I was a bit timid and considered cancelling since, as much as I try to be, I am not exactly a girl's girl. Thanks to champagne and a bartender that gave us free roam of the bar, most of the night is a bit hazy, however I do remember letting completely loose and having an absolute BALL with Ms. Kelley Geris.
While I had met Kelley 8 months earlier, we had not hung out much due to the interesting (to say the least) social dynamics of an expat community. I must say, Kelley has completely livened my German experience. She is never short on witty comments, inappropriate jokes (a compliment in my book), fabulous fashion, enviable decorating or entertaining ideas, drama, and craftiness. Unfortunately, she is returning with her husband, Jesse, to the US in December. Therefore, we decided to recreate our Prague experience (minus broken doors and crazy midget Asians) by traveling down to Munich with our other Real Hausfrauen of Erlangen castmates.
The first night I had organized "The Real Hausfrauen of Erlangen Present... Favorite German Things" party (similar to Oprah's favorite things party) for Kelley. We each bought items that were or represented our favorite things in Germany and gave them to her as gifts. I think it turned out quite well... I gave her a scarf I bought at a market in Budapest to represent the European markets that I love so much. I also gave her chocolate, schnapps, and a stein from the Altstadtbierbrau in Nürnberg (my favorite beer). I slid in some OB tampons as a joke since we cannot find any regular tampons here.
We stayed up past 4am talking and laughing (insert some drama in every now and then)... really a nice night.
Saturday we did some shopping and then went out to dinner and to a small bar for some drinks. Sunday was breakfast and a nice train ride home.
While I had met Kelley 8 months earlier, we had not hung out much due to the interesting (to say the least) social dynamics of an expat community. I must say, Kelley has completely livened my German experience. She is never short on witty comments, inappropriate jokes (a compliment in my book), fabulous fashion, enviable decorating or entertaining ideas, drama, and craftiness. Unfortunately, she is returning with her husband, Jesse, to the US in December. Therefore, we decided to recreate our Prague experience (minus broken doors and crazy midget Asians) by traveling down to Munich with our other Real Hausfrauen of Erlangen castmates.
The first night I had organized "The Real Hausfrauen of Erlangen Present... Favorite German Things" party (similar to Oprah's favorite things party) for Kelley. We each bought items that were or represented our favorite things in Germany and gave them to her as gifts. I think it turned out quite well... I gave her a scarf I bought at a market in Budapest to represent the European markets that I love so much. I also gave her chocolate, schnapps, and a stein from the Altstadtbierbrau in Nürnberg (my favorite beer). I slid in some OB tampons as a joke since we cannot find any regular tampons here.
We stayed up past 4am talking and laughing (insert some drama in every now and then)... really a nice night.
Saturday we did some shopping and then went out to dinner and to a small bar for some drinks. Sunday was breakfast and a nice train ride home.
November 6, 2012
The Pest!
Shall I step up to my high horse again? Na... I will try to stand in place.
Since I am fortunate enough to be in Europe, I feel I should travel European.
We took the train to Budapest - it was CRAZY, especially at 7.5 months pregnant, but that is part of the experience.
We arrived and took another 45 minute bus outside the city to our hotel. I had bought a weekend off of Groupon because it included a spa and Aquaworld - not bad, really enjoyed the comfortable bed (and probably needed it due to Atticus) - but I really prefer to be in the city, in a hostel.
We started the next day in the tourist district and wasted a day... not bad sight seeing, but when I are in a place as unique and alternative as Budapest, I need more than pretty sights. We did the Central Market Hall - nice to see but generic, Parliament - incredible architecture, wandered the streets looking for certain stores I had read about, drank hot wine, stopped into Zappa Cafe, and went into every McDonalds or Burger King so preggs could pee every 30 minutes. Ugh so annoying.
We did visit the Tisza shoe store, and I could kick myself for not buying a pair now. I was so focused on finding a Christmas gift for Butch's son Zach, and so disappointment when they didn't carry a 14 for him that I forgot to look for me or Billy.
We also found a tapas restaurant for dinner that absolutely hit the spot. It reminded me of my first time overseas in Le Creausot where I didn't eat a lot of food, but it was of such quality that it completely filled me up. The prices in Hungary though did not remind me of France AT ALL. I had a 3 course meal (spicy red lentil soup with homemade bread, pork cutlets with fried onions and a sauce I wasn't familiar with, potatoes, and pistacio cake with vanilla bourbon cream) for what converted to about 13 euro. Billy had a four course meal for what converted to about 15 euro (smoked trout on bread with homemade cream spread, soup, duck in an asian sauce, and pistacio cake). Amazing. I also had a fabulous homemade lemonade and Billy's wine was to die for.
Early to bed and early to rise is a pregnant woman's life. So we were off Saturday for Antique shopping... unfortunately Hungarians do not rise so early, so we skipped the Antique district and headed out of the city for the Esceri Fleamarket. We were definitely the only English speakers out here, but this is what Billy and I travel for... to see something real. To see and experience life outside of our comforts. We didn't know which bus or where to get off, but luckily with some fancy hand signals and a map, a bus driver put us on the correct bus and motioned at us when we were to get off.
A food stand welcomed us into the market, and for what amounted to 3 euro we ate chicken wings, pork sandwich, sausage with homemade bread, and hot peppers. We had some difficulties ordering, and Billy got embarrassed for the first time in our marriage when I practically touched someone's food trying to say I wanted some of that, but it was soooooooooooooo good. OMG.
We went to the Castle District for fantastic views of the city, an even more fantastic wine tasting, and topped it off with a late lunch at the best deli I have ever been to. At Mangalica & Társai Húspatika we had something similar to a burger, something similar to a hot dog, and baked cheese and a salad. Ahhhhhhhh.
We finished the evening with the Budapest version of a funnel cake, a long walk, and an evening in the spa at our hotel.
Sunday was WAMP day. I was super stoked because I had read a lot about it. I had hoped for the design fair, but unfortunately it was the gastro fair the weekend we were there. Coffees and jams and cookies and hummus and cream spreads and breads and cheeses and meats... OHHH myyyyy. Billy was in heaven with the local brews - very hoppy makes a very happy Billz.
Next was the market at Szimpla Kert. Sooooooooo cool. I cannot even describe it. I could absolutely kick myself for not going here each day for the atmosphere. We supported the local poor population by enjoying a bowl of some type of meat stew. There was every type of pickled veggie on sale and it was cheap as dirt. I always feel 'not cool enough' at these types of places, but at the same time it is so unpretentious that it just doesn't matter.
We caught our afternoon train back to Germany. Tough ride back, but I will take that any day over car or plane.
Since I am fortunate enough to be in Europe, I feel I should travel European.
We took the train to Budapest - it was CRAZY, especially at 7.5 months pregnant, but that is part of the experience.
We arrived and took another 45 minute bus outside the city to our hotel. I had bought a weekend off of Groupon because it included a spa and Aquaworld - not bad, really enjoyed the comfortable bed (and probably needed it due to Atticus) - but I really prefer to be in the city, in a hostel.
We started the next day in the tourist district and wasted a day... not bad sight seeing, but when I are in a place as unique and alternative as Budapest, I need more than pretty sights. We did the Central Market Hall - nice to see but generic, Parliament - incredible architecture, wandered the streets looking for certain stores I had read about, drank hot wine, stopped into Zappa Cafe, and went into every McDonalds or Burger King so preggs could pee every 30 minutes. Ugh so annoying.
We did visit the Tisza shoe store, and I could kick myself for not buying a pair now. I was so focused on finding a Christmas gift for Butch's son Zach, and so disappointment when they didn't carry a 14 for him that I forgot to look for me or Billy.
We also found a tapas restaurant for dinner that absolutely hit the spot. It reminded me of my first time overseas in Le Creausot where I didn't eat a lot of food, but it was of such quality that it completely filled me up. The prices in Hungary though did not remind me of France AT ALL. I had a 3 course meal (spicy red lentil soup with homemade bread, pork cutlets with fried onions and a sauce I wasn't familiar with, potatoes, and pistacio cake with vanilla bourbon cream) for what converted to about 13 euro. Billy had a four course meal for what converted to about 15 euro (smoked trout on bread with homemade cream spread, soup, duck in an asian sauce, and pistacio cake). Amazing. I also had a fabulous homemade lemonade and Billy's wine was to die for.
Early to bed and early to rise is a pregnant woman's life. So we were off Saturday for Antique shopping... unfortunately Hungarians do not rise so early, so we skipped the Antique district and headed out of the city for the Esceri Fleamarket. We were definitely the only English speakers out here, but this is what Billy and I travel for... to see something real. To see and experience life outside of our comforts. We didn't know which bus or where to get off, but luckily with some fancy hand signals and a map, a bus driver put us on the correct bus and motioned at us when we were to get off.
A food stand welcomed us into the market, and for what amounted to 3 euro we ate chicken wings, pork sandwich, sausage with homemade bread, and hot peppers. We had some difficulties ordering, and Billy got embarrassed for the first time in our marriage when I practically touched someone's food trying to say I wanted some of that, but it was soooooooooooooo good. OMG.
We went to the Castle District for fantastic views of the city, an even more fantastic wine tasting, and topped it off with a late lunch at the best deli I have ever been to. At Mangalica & Társai Húspatika we had something similar to a burger, something similar to a hot dog, and baked cheese and a salad. Ahhhhhhhh.
We finished the evening with the Budapest version of a funnel cake, a long walk, and an evening in the spa at our hotel.
Sunday was WAMP day. I was super stoked because I had read a lot about it. I had hoped for the design fair, but unfortunately it was the gastro fair the weekend we were there. Coffees and jams and cookies and hummus and cream spreads and breads and cheeses and meats... OHHH myyyyy. Billy was in heaven with the local brews - very hoppy makes a very happy Billz.
Next was the market at Szimpla Kert. Sooooooooo cool. I cannot even describe it. I could absolutely kick myself for not going here each day for the atmosphere. We supported the local poor population by enjoying a bowl of some type of meat stew. There was every type of pickled veggie on sale and it was cheap as dirt. I always feel 'not cool enough' at these types of places, but at the same time it is so unpretentious that it just doesn't matter.
We caught our afternoon train back to Germany. Tough ride back, but I will take that any day over car or plane.
Was there an October in 2012? No, really.
Ash came. I forget how much I enjoy her company. Super, super cool girl.
Fuerth's Michaelis Kirchweih
Lina's Birthday
Finished my German 3 class
Guided city tour of Forcheim
Bowling
More doctor's appointments to make sure my baby boy is ok
And Halloween....
Fuerth's Michaelis Kirchweih
Lina's Birthday
Finished my German 3 class
Guided city tour of Forcheim
Bowling
More doctor's appointments to make sure my baby boy is ok
And Halloween....
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