After Father's Day I started working on a blog about things I have learned from my dad and hope to pass on or do for Grayden. Needless to say, I got distracted and had yet to finish. But as my dad had to come to our rescue yesterday (which I will go in to detail about later), I remembered I needed to finish this blog and share to all of you what an amazing dad I have and why I hope to resemble him in some way.
I was not fortunate enough to meet my dad's father. He passed away before I was born and I only have the stories that my dad shares with me to imagine what he was like and what kind of grandpa he would have been. From what I hear, I think I would have really enjoyed his company. And I wonder what he would have thought of me. My dad loved him. My dad learned many life lessons from him and I imagine some of those are the ones he passes on to us.
I feel SO grateful that my dad will be here when Grayden is born. I can't wait for them to meet! I am glad that I won't just have to pass stories on to my son, but that he will get to experience my dad first hand. And maybe my dad can pass on some of the lessons to Grayden himself.
So here are some of the favorites:
Sometimes Laughter is the Best Medicine - I have never known someone that has the gift to make people laugh in the toughest of circumstances like my dad. Growing up, my dad ALWAYS found a way to make me laugh, especially when I was crying. Don't get me wrong...he would hug me and hurt with me, but he always knew how to make me laugh. There is something to be said about being able to laugh at your situation. Maybe it helps put it in perspective, or maybe it just eases your pain temporarily, but either way laughter is good for the soul. I hope I can make Grayden laugh...although I wouldn't dare think myself as witty as my dad, but I hope that I can ease his hurting with a little laughter. I imagine as a parent watching your child hurt is one of the hardest things and most helpless feelings, but being able to make them laugh must somehow make you feel better.
Selflessness - We didn't grow up with a lot of money. We didn't drive new cars or go on extravagant vacations, but I don't recall lacking anything. My dad is the pastor of a smaller church, so let's just say he isn't exactly bringing home the big bucks. And there were times that he had to work a second job temporarily to make ends meet. But usually when he took on an extra job is was to provide something my sister or I needed. I can remember one time when he took a job on the side throwing papers in the wee hours of the morning. I went with him a couple of times and slept in the warehouse and the car while he worked. It is humbling to look back as an adult and realize he was probably doing that to give me something I needed. While I slept, he was selflessly working for me. He put away his own pride and exhaustion to provide for us.
You Never Stop Caring - I am a grown woman, and as I mentioned earlier, my dad had to come to our rescue yesterday. I wish I could say that was the first time in my adult life. Our van broke down yesterday in Galveston. So what does my dad do...tells us to go enjoy the beach and he will drive to come get us. Not only did he drive to come get us, he chose to join us for a swim (in his regular clothes) in the ocean before heading back. I was reminded of a time in college when my friends and I drove to Panama City Beach. One of the cars broke down on the way. With the mechanic there telling us it would be over a week to fix it, we called my dad...who said enjoy the week and he would drive to pick us up at the end and tow the car back. And that is what he did. He drove through the night 12 hours, decided not to wake us up and rested in his truck, and then drove us straight back while towing the broken down car. Talk about a good dad!! I can't even begin to list the many times my dad has helped me out. When we need advise or help with something, he is there. It's a love that goes beyond age.
Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover - As human beings, it is hard not to make judgments off first impressions. We make assumptions based on the way people look, talk, etc. My dad was always careful about making any judgments about people without getting to know them. He has always had a way of getting to know people for who they really are. You never know what someone's life has been and why they look or act the way they do. I have to say that this is one of those lessons I try very hard to live by, but probably fail at often. I have seen in life that some of the people that society would never peg as God-fearing Christians are the one's with the biggest servants hearts. They love the Lord and are so grateful for what He has done. It has made me realize that the "cover" may not be flashy and shiny and new, but the "contents" can be rewarding.
Six Ways to Kill a Man - Okay...so not exactly kill a man, but there is nothing funnier perhaps than a dad trying to teach his daughters how to defend themselves military style. There are actually a few things I remember from it, but thankfully have never had to use. I am pretty sure I am going to leave this lesson up to him to teach Grayden.
Be Yourself - My dad never tried to make me be like anyone else. Don't mistake that for him not teaching me right from wrong and instilling morals and values. He certainly taught me those things. But he never tried to make me act like anyone or behave like someone else's kid. For that matter, my sister and I were pretty different and he never compared us. My dad is one of those people that if you ask him how anything is going...church, golf, etc., he will say something like..."it's terrible" and laugh. He will follow it up with something better, but he just doesn't play the "let me impress you with how awesome my life is game". He is who he is. Some love him and some don't. But he decided long ago not to let the opinions of others change him. And that's how I grew up. I am thankful for being taught that at an early age. It enabled me not to compromise who I was for someone else. And it also taught me not to worry about trying to impress everyone.
Our Father's Love - They say the relationship you have with your earthly father directly affects the relationship you have with our heavenly Father. Lucky for me, I have an earthly father that practiced a ton of grace with me. I have done a lot of stupid things. But I have never once felt like my dad didn't forgive me or still love me the same. In the early part of my pregnancy, I had a health scare. I had a previous diagnosis that was apparently not good for pregnancy and so I had to meet with new doctors and have new tests run and it was scary. I remember talking with my dad about it one day and getting emotional. I knew in that moment just by looking at my dad and what he said that he would give anything to fix it. I knew if he could make it all okay he would. As I left his house that day, I immediately thought of God. And I thought if my earthly dad knows how to love me this much, how much more must God love me. God, my creator, the one who made me how I am, the one who died for my sins. How much must that Father love me. I feel sad for kids that grow up with strained relationships with their dads. I wish their dads were showing them the Father's love. I hope and pray that I will be able to show our Father's love to Grayden in that same way of forgiveness, compassion and grace that my dad had with me.
I am often told I am like my father...usually by my mom when I am misbehaving, but by other people as well. No matter how they mean it...I always take it as a compliment. My dad is truly one of the great ones. I will never know why God blessed me with such a good dad, but I will be forever grateful. And I hope I can pass on to Grayden what he has given me.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Friday, June 8, 2012
"My Hump, My Hump, My Hump, My Hump"
The title of this blog is a line from the Black Eyed Peas song called "My Humps" where basically they sing about the girl's "hump" and "lumps" on her body. While I am sort of ashamed I actually know this song, nonetheless, I couldn't help but think of it as I walked through the door of a restaurant this week, at the same time someone was coming out, and when they saw my "hump" they said, "oh, whoa, sorry". Not sorry I was pregnant...sorry they almost ran into my massive hump.
I have often wondered what it must be like to be one of those women who complains because people only stare at her body. I have never had to say to someone, "Hey...I have a face you know." Or anything of the sort. I simply cannot relate to people, or men especially, checking out...as Fergie puts it..."my lovely lady lumps".
But that has all changed. My hump is pretty much the first thing people notice about me now. I never thought I would even remotely be able to relate to people's eyes wondering away from my face until I got my hump.
Some people just out right stare at it. And some say thinks like "whoa" when they almost run into it...or if they haven't seen me in a while and can't believe it's bigger. Even little kids can't help but notice. I was in a restroom the other day and a mother with two little girls was in there. As I was walking out one little girl said, "I think she's having a baby". Some people try to be a little more nonchalant about it. I see people trying to glance down without me seeing. I just want to turn and say, "it's okay...look at it...there is something amazing in there."
My "hump" has this precious life moving around inside, and therefore I am not quite as appalled that people are obsessed with it. In fact, it is the only time I won't be offended if people can't stop staring at my belly. After the baby is born...I will feel totally different. But for now...go ahead. Stare. That hump is my joy...or more so what is causing that hump is my joy!
I have often wondered what it must be like to be one of those women who complains because people only stare at her body. I have never had to say to someone, "Hey...I have a face you know." Or anything of the sort. I simply cannot relate to people, or men especially, checking out...as Fergie puts it..."my lovely lady lumps".
But that has all changed. My hump is pretty much the first thing people notice about me now. I never thought I would even remotely be able to relate to people's eyes wondering away from my face until I got my hump.
Some people just out right stare at it. And some say thinks like "whoa" when they almost run into it...or if they haven't seen me in a while and can't believe it's bigger. Even little kids can't help but notice. I was in a restroom the other day and a mother with two little girls was in there. As I was walking out one little girl said, "I think she's having a baby". Some people try to be a little more nonchalant about it. I see people trying to glance down without me seeing. I just want to turn and say, "it's okay...look at it...there is something amazing in there."
My "hump" has this precious life moving around inside, and therefore I am not quite as appalled that people are obsessed with it. In fact, it is the only time I won't be offended if people can't stop staring at my belly. After the baby is born...I will feel totally different. But for now...go ahead. Stare. That hump is my joy...or more so what is causing that hump is my joy!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Lessons From My Mother
Okay...so my mom sort of made me feel guilty about how my blog is always sarcastic. In fact, I am pretty sure she made a comment somewhere along the lines of how I don't sound like I am happy to be pregnant and excited about the future. My mom is right. Most of my blogs are somewhat sarcastic and finding the humor in the not so glamorous side of pregnancy. Pregnancy is a mix of the surreal miracle of what is going on inside of your body and the awkwardness that comes with it. But I could not be more excited about being a mom, and she knows that. She just wants everyone else to know how happy I am...and for that I love her. She is always looking out for me.
For Mother's Day my dad had myself, my sister and some other ladies in our church make a video talking about what we had learned from our moms. So it made me think about what lessons I learned from my own mother that I hope to carry on.
So here goes...and yes mom, some of them are funny.
Selflessness - I used to think this was an innate trait built in all moms from the moment they conceive. But years of watching the news and working with high school girls has made me realize not every mom is selfless. I am not saying they are bad moms...just that they lack the ability to put their children first above their own needs.
My mom often sacrificed having a new outfit...or a new pair of shoes...and if you knew my mom you would know the shoe thing is a MAJOR sacrifice as she is what I would consider a shoe collector. But if it meant buying something for me or my sister or us needing something for school or some activity, she would gladly forgo something for herself. I never knew how to appreciate this until I became pregnant. And suddenly buying things for our little boy seemed more important than shopping for myself. I certainly think moms should take care of themselves, pamper themselves, have hobbies... I am just talking more about those moments when you have to decide...you or your kids.
My mom brought me forgotten lunches, attended every game and performance, drove me all around, etc. I think you get the picture. She just did without complaining. I can't ever remember her complaining...at least to us kids...about having to do for us. And I often think she missed out on some things in life because she was doing for us.
Blame Dad for All the Bad Traits
We joke about this as a family. Every time my sister or I did something stupid or talked back, our mom's response was, "you are just like your father." Followed with, "I raised you better." I have always found this hilarious. And I have a hunch our little Grayden will be hearing those same words come out of my mouth at some point.
Grace
My mom has a steadfast love for Jesus and I am convinced this is probably what enabled her to have so much grace with us. Don't get me wrong...we got in trouble. But there was always forgiveness. I am pretty sure there were times she just wanted to ground us for life, but she practiced grace. I hope that I practice grace with my son. That I remember he is human and that God will remind me everyday of the grace He has bestowed on me.
Every Now and Then....Dance
One of my favorite memories of my mom is her dancing in the kitchen to C&C Music Factory. Remember them? We were cleaning house...and I was only productive with music on. So I put on my music and instead of mom making me turn it off, she saw me dancing and joined in. I laughed so hard. She just let loose, didn't care if she made a fool of herself, and danced.
Sometimes You Just Have to Let Them Be Who They Are
My mom and I are different in quite a few ways. She was the oldest of her siblings, incredibly responsible and a rule follower. I am the baby of our family, some (my sister) would say spoiled, and think many rules are sort of dumb and are only there for people who can't be trusted. From what I hear and have heard via tape recordings, I was a stinker of a kid. My mom would find me sitting on the dishwasher door licking knives. Weird. I apparently grabbed a fistful of a man's hair once and picked my feet up off the ground, pulling his head back in pain. I guess I was curious. I loved playing sports and doing outdoor projects. I lived in my own world of song and entertainment. She let me pick out a rabbit from the vet that had no ears and no tail because the mom had chewed them off. She let me bring it home and love it. I can think of countless ways my mom just had to let me be me. I am sure there were times she just didn't get me. But she loved me enough to let me be me. She guided me and taught me wrong from right, but she let me have my interests even if she didn't get them.
I know there will be days I wonder if Grayden is really my son...especially when he is a teenager. But like my mom, I will accept that he is not me. He is uniquely him. Made by God for a special purpose different from mine.
You Eventually Have to Let Them Go
This I imagine is the hardest thing as a parent. When I was a teenager, I was very active. Lots of friends. Involved in everything at school I could be...sports, theater, class officer. I wasn't home much. I often feel like I probably missed out on some good memories with my family because I was so busy. There were times my mom would jokingly ask if I didn't like them, but I knew what she meant. They missed me. I couldn't appreciate being missed by my parents until I got older. And now that I am going to be a mom, I already dread the day my son is too busy or too cool for me.
Then comes college. I will never forget the tearful goodbye when my parents dropped me off at Texas A&M University. I chose a college SO close to home, but it felt so far at first. In the beginning, every time I came home my mom would cry as I backed out of the driveway to go back to school. Not because she wasn't proud of me. Not because she wanted me to drop out of school. But because she genuinely missed me. And up until my adult life, I never imagined that she might actually miss me. And I think as an adult I realize just how much I missed them. But they were doing what you have to do...let your kids go out in the world and live. As much as you love them and want to keep them forever in your care and protection, you know they have to grow up and learn about life. I am forever grateful that my mom had the courage to let me go.
Growing up doesn't mean we don't need our moms anymore. Our need just changes. As I face motherhood, I realize how much I will need her. But the need now is for friendship, advice, encouragement. And most certainly, her reassuring me I am a good mom when I feel like I am failing.
Mom...thank you for being a wonderful example of selfless love! I can't wait for Grayden to experience it! Love you!!!
For Mother's Day my dad had myself, my sister and some other ladies in our church make a video talking about what we had learned from our moms. So it made me think about what lessons I learned from my own mother that I hope to carry on.
So here goes...and yes mom, some of them are funny.
Selflessness - I used to think this was an innate trait built in all moms from the moment they conceive. But years of watching the news and working with high school girls has made me realize not every mom is selfless. I am not saying they are bad moms...just that they lack the ability to put their children first above their own needs.
My mom often sacrificed having a new outfit...or a new pair of shoes...and if you knew my mom you would know the shoe thing is a MAJOR sacrifice as she is what I would consider a shoe collector. But if it meant buying something for me or my sister or us needing something for school or some activity, she would gladly forgo something for herself. I never knew how to appreciate this until I became pregnant. And suddenly buying things for our little boy seemed more important than shopping for myself. I certainly think moms should take care of themselves, pamper themselves, have hobbies... I am just talking more about those moments when you have to decide...you or your kids.
My mom brought me forgotten lunches, attended every game and performance, drove me all around, etc. I think you get the picture. She just did without complaining. I can't ever remember her complaining...at least to us kids...about having to do for us. And I often think she missed out on some things in life because she was doing for us.
Blame Dad for All the Bad Traits
We joke about this as a family. Every time my sister or I did something stupid or talked back, our mom's response was, "you are just like your father." Followed with, "I raised you better." I have always found this hilarious. And I have a hunch our little Grayden will be hearing those same words come out of my mouth at some point.
Grace
My mom has a steadfast love for Jesus and I am convinced this is probably what enabled her to have so much grace with us. Don't get me wrong...we got in trouble. But there was always forgiveness. I am pretty sure there were times she just wanted to ground us for life, but she practiced grace. I hope that I practice grace with my son. That I remember he is human and that God will remind me everyday of the grace He has bestowed on me.
Every Now and Then....Dance
One of my favorite memories of my mom is her dancing in the kitchen to C&C Music Factory. Remember them? We were cleaning house...and I was only productive with music on. So I put on my music and instead of mom making me turn it off, she saw me dancing and joined in. I laughed so hard. She just let loose, didn't care if she made a fool of herself, and danced.
Sometimes You Just Have to Let Them Be Who They Are
My mom and I are different in quite a few ways. She was the oldest of her siblings, incredibly responsible and a rule follower. I am the baby of our family, some (my sister) would say spoiled, and think many rules are sort of dumb and are only there for people who can't be trusted. From what I hear and have heard via tape recordings, I was a stinker of a kid. My mom would find me sitting on the dishwasher door licking knives. Weird. I apparently grabbed a fistful of a man's hair once and picked my feet up off the ground, pulling his head back in pain. I guess I was curious. I loved playing sports and doing outdoor projects. I lived in my own world of song and entertainment. She let me pick out a rabbit from the vet that had no ears and no tail because the mom had chewed them off. She let me bring it home and love it. I can think of countless ways my mom just had to let me be me. I am sure there were times she just didn't get me. But she loved me enough to let me be me. She guided me and taught me wrong from right, but she let me have my interests even if she didn't get them.
I know there will be days I wonder if Grayden is really my son...especially when he is a teenager. But like my mom, I will accept that he is not me. He is uniquely him. Made by God for a special purpose different from mine.
You Eventually Have to Let Them Go
This I imagine is the hardest thing as a parent. When I was a teenager, I was very active. Lots of friends. Involved in everything at school I could be...sports, theater, class officer. I wasn't home much. I often feel like I probably missed out on some good memories with my family because I was so busy. There were times my mom would jokingly ask if I didn't like them, but I knew what she meant. They missed me. I couldn't appreciate being missed by my parents until I got older. And now that I am going to be a mom, I already dread the day my son is too busy or too cool for me.
Then comes college. I will never forget the tearful goodbye when my parents dropped me off at Texas A&M University. I chose a college SO close to home, but it felt so far at first. In the beginning, every time I came home my mom would cry as I backed out of the driveway to go back to school. Not because she wasn't proud of me. Not because she wanted me to drop out of school. But because she genuinely missed me. And up until my adult life, I never imagined that she might actually miss me. And I think as an adult I realize just how much I missed them. But they were doing what you have to do...let your kids go out in the world and live. As much as you love them and want to keep them forever in your care and protection, you know they have to grow up and learn about life. I am forever grateful that my mom had the courage to let me go.
Growing up doesn't mean we don't need our moms anymore. Our need just changes. As I face motherhood, I realize how much I will need her. But the need now is for friendship, advice, encouragement. And most certainly, her reassuring me I am a good mom when I feel like I am failing.
Mom...thank you for being a wonderful example of selfless love! I can't wait for Grayden to experience it! Love you!!!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Top Five (things you can only do or say to a woman when she's pregnant)
It has occurred to me that when you are pregnant people do and say things that would never be appropriate to otherwise...and as my doctor said, some are borderline inappropriate to say to a pregnant lady. After experiencing some awkward and funny incidences I decided to make my top five list.
So here it is...TOP FIVE things you can only get away with doing or saying to a woman when she is pregnant.
5. "Wow...you have gotten big!"
1. Someone you really don't know grabbing your belly and hugging it.
So here it is...TOP FIVE things you can only get away with doing or saying to a woman when she is pregnant.
5. "Wow...you have gotten big!"
- I think I would rather people quote "The Humpty Dance" by Digital Underground and say, "Yo fat girl, come 'ere are ya ticklish? Yea, I called you fat." I mean at least that would make me laugh. I have yet to meet any woman not pregnant where that is a compliment. Pregnant women are usually aware of just how big they are getting, however, it's not really offensive. At least to me. The bigger this belly gets, the closer I am to due date. So come on little one and grow!
- Okay...this one has been said to me on more than one occasion. And while it makes me laugh, I also have to wonder if I am abnormally large at this stage or confirm what I fear may be true that this baby is going to be huge. The fact that I was 9 lbs. 12 oz. and my husband was 9 lbs. 2 oz. when we were born does not exactly allow the genetics for a smaller baby. I just keep picturing the birthing scene from the Twilight Breaking Dawn movie. If you haven't seen it, I will spare you the details.
- This could be a compliment to a non-pregnant woman only if followed by "dang girl, you look good." It is only bad for a pregnant woman when followed by the affirmation that you indeed look pregnant from behind. Ha ha. If I started asking women who are not pregnant to let me look at them from behind and then commenting on their backside in any way other than how firm their butt looks, I would lose a lot of friends.
- If I ever went up to a non-pregnant woman and rubbed her belly, well, I might get slapped. Or arrested. I wonder what would happen if when someone rubs my belly I start rubbing theirs, too. This is definitely something you can only get away with doing to someone with child. I honestly get the fascination with knowing there is life inside that protruding bulge. Heck, I rub my own belly all the time. Some pregnant women despise having people touch their stomachs. I really only get weirded out if it's a stranger. I think I have just become used to it. I might make a shirt that says, "$10 to touch the tummy" and start turning a profit on this thing.
1. Someone you really don't know grabbing your belly and hugging it.
- Yes...this happened to me at the flower market. A very sweet lady, who was excited to see my belly, came over and leaned down and hugged it....for a while. The best part was my business partner coming through the doors and witnessing me standing their, hands awkwardly in the air, not sure what to do. I thought she was going to die...of laughter of course. Let's just say that if I came up to any of you and hugged your belly you would think I was a freak. But when someone is pregnant it is totally normal.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Maternity Girl in a Material World
I know I spoke in the last blog about maternity shopping, but this week would have been a new low if it weren't so humorous! Luckily, I had my husband to share in what I like to call the shunning of pregnant women.
I decided to do some real maternity shopping this week. The jeans and shorts are just at that point where using a rubber band to hold them up is not quite comfortable. So my husband and I set out on a mission: find cute, stylish clothes for this ever growing body. How hard could it be?
Here's the run down...
We started at Old Navy because I have found some great summer tanks there in the maternity section and we decided to go check it out again. As we walked in the store, we were surrounded by bursts of color! Spring was everywhere. I sort of felt giddy. That is until my husband reminded me that I needed to be checking out the maternity section. So we walked back and as we get closer, those beautiful colors started fading. The front of the store was just a big tease. What are a pregnant girl's options? Denim. Gray. Khaki. Black. I will say they have great knit shirts and tanks in color. But what about the shorts? I tried on a pair of denim shorts, but on a whim decided to try on some of those brightly colored shorts from the "normal" section in two sizes too big just for fun. The maternity denim shorts were skin tight in the legs, an awkward length and tapered. They must have had size 2 pregnant ladies in mind with those. So I put on the "normal" shorts and decided that I would buy those. I know, I know...they won't last long because they don't stretch, but they were so much more fun!!
Our next stop was the Woodlands Mall. Should have lots of success there, right? As my husband suggested, we hit up some department stores. (Side note: I realize Motherhood Maternity is the only maternity store with plenty to choose from, but quite frankly, they are pricey and still did not have fun spring options like I wanted). So we wandered in to JC Penney and Sears. After having to ask where the maternity section was because it was not visibly marked, we were sent to tiny, back corners in both places. It's like they are saying, "Oh...you're pregnant. Here, let us hide you away from our normal shoppers in this dark corner of our store. Oh and because you have that belly, we are only going to give you three racks to choose from." Yes, once again...denim, khaki, gray bottoms with tops so long and baggy they looked like tents. I felt like they were saying that being pregnant meant you needed to hide yourself for the next few months. And give up all sense of style and fun while you're at it.
Defeated, my husband suggested Macy's. Yes, they may be more expensive, but surely their selection would be larger. The first lady we asked directions from was in the shoe department. Her response was, "I don't think we have a maternity section." I thought to myself NO WAY! That has to be wrong. So I suggested we go ask in the clothing section. We found two ladies working and asked where the maternity section was. I kid you not, one of the ladies looked down at us over her glasses and said snootily, almost scoffing at me, "We don't have a maternity section." And went back to work!!
Well, I am so sorry my husband and I decided to have a family resulting in me carrying a life inside of me. I felt like she was saying, "we don't take your kind around here. Try not to come back until that bump is gone. But once you have the baby, come on back and spend your money on the precious things we have for your baby. Just not for you while you are carrying it inside you."
Fortunately, Matt and I got a huge laugh at my failed attempt to find maternity clothes. I realize I am somewhat picky when it comes to clothes, but I just don't see why I suddenly have to become frumpy. I mean its hard enough to feel attractive when you are expanding everywhere, so can't I at least have cute clothes while it's happening?
The only solution I see at this point is to start my own maternity clothing line. Who's with me?
Side note #2: If you haven't watched movie trailers for "What to Expect When You're Expecting" you need to. I have no idea what the movie will be like, but the trailers sure made me laugh.
I decided to do some real maternity shopping this week. The jeans and shorts are just at that point where using a rubber band to hold them up is not quite comfortable. So my husband and I set out on a mission: find cute, stylish clothes for this ever growing body. How hard could it be?
Here's the run down...
We started at Old Navy because I have found some great summer tanks there in the maternity section and we decided to go check it out again. As we walked in the store, we were surrounded by bursts of color! Spring was everywhere. I sort of felt giddy. That is until my husband reminded me that I needed to be checking out the maternity section. So we walked back and as we get closer, those beautiful colors started fading. The front of the store was just a big tease. What are a pregnant girl's options? Denim. Gray. Khaki. Black. I will say they have great knit shirts and tanks in color. But what about the shorts? I tried on a pair of denim shorts, but on a whim decided to try on some of those brightly colored shorts from the "normal" section in two sizes too big just for fun. The maternity denim shorts were skin tight in the legs, an awkward length and tapered. They must have had size 2 pregnant ladies in mind with those. So I put on the "normal" shorts and decided that I would buy those. I know, I know...they won't last long because they don't stretch, but they were so much more fun!!
Our next stop was the Woodlands Mall. Should have lots of success there, right? As my husband suggested, we hit up some department stores. (Side note: I realize Motherhood Maternity is the only maternity store with plenty to choose from, but quite frankly, they are pricey and still did not have fun spring options like I wanted). So we wandered in to JC Penney and Sears. After having to ask where the maternity section was because it was not visibly marked, we were sent to tiny, back corners in both places. It's like they are saying, "Oh...you're pregnant. Here, let us hide you away from our normal shoppers in this dark corner of our store. Oh and because you have that belly, we are only going to give you three racks to choose from." Yes, once again...denim, khaki, gray bottoms with tops so long and baggy they looked like tents. I felt like they were saying that being pregnant meant you needed to hide yourself for the next few months. And give up all sense of style and fun while you're at it.
Defeated, my husband suggested Macy's. Yes, they may be more expensive, but surely their selection would be larger. The first lady we asked directions from was in the shoe department. Her response was, "I don't think we have a maternity section." I thought to myself NO WAY! That has to be wrong. So I suggested we go ask in the clothing section. We found two ladies working and asked where the maternity section was. I kid you not, one of the ladies looked down at us over her glasses and said snootily, almost scoffing at me, "We don't have a maternity section." And went back to work!!
Well, I am so sorry my husband and I decided to have a family resulting in me carrying a life inside of me. I felt like she was saying, "we don't take your kind around here. Try not to come back until that bump is gone. But once you have the baby, come on back and spend your money on the precious things we have for your baby. Just not for you while you are carrying it inside you."
Fortunately, Matt and I got a huge laugh at my failed attempt to find maternity clothes. I realize I am somewhat picky when it comes to clothes, but I just don't see why I suddenly have to become frumpy. I mean its hard enough to feel attractive when you are expanding everywhere, so can't I at least have cute clothes while it's happening?
The only solution I see at this point is to start my own maternity clothing line. Who's with me?
Side note #2: If you haven't watched movie trailers for "What to Expect When You're Expecting" you need to. I have no idea what the movie will be like, but the trailers sure made me laugh.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
She's Really Let Herself Go
I never know how to take it when someone says, "You don't look pregnant." I want to say thanks, except in my mind I am thinking, "Oh, so they just thought I was getting chubby." I am currently at 14 weeks...you know the phase where you just look like you are getting pudgy around your mid section. When I see people I just want to shout, "I really haven't let myself go. I am pregnant!"
I can no longer suck anything in. I am a person who regularly works out, but you know, as ladies we still have to suck in sometimes. Its an amazing trick. We look instantly thinner and can hold that look for a while. BUT...when you are in your second trimester, there is no more sucking in. And yet, I am not quite at that cute pregnancy belly phase. It's weird. I find myself changing a million times, buying super stretchy skirts, and wearing a lot of cardigans.
So, I broke down and decided to go maternity shopping. As I passed all these cute, bright spring clothes for the everyday woman, I made my way to the maternity section. HORIZONTAL STRIPES in everything???? Really??? I mean I know that a baby bump is the one time it's cute to have a belly, but come on....do I really need to accentuate it with horizontal stripes?
If the horizontal stripes weren't enough to make me laugh, then it was the awkwardness of the pants and the shorts. At first glance, I was not sold. I mean, I want the cute clothes I saw at in the normal sections of Target, Old Navy, the Gap and Forever 21 (yes I still shop there). But nonetheless, I was determined to buy some maternity clothes.
I immediately refused any item with the long belly band attached. I don't like anything too high on my stomach in my normal clothes, so I wrote them off during pregnancy. However, I was forced to try them because there aren't many options when you are preggers. I must admit...as much as it pains me...they were way more comfortable than I expected. And after trying them on repeatedly I have a new found respect for them. In fact, as I am writing this I am wearing a belly band over my non-maternity shorts (which I can no longer button or zip all the way) and feel quite comfortable.
And I have come to a new conclusion: I will be one of those women, after I have delivered this baby, that continues to wear her maternity clothes way past the normal amount of time. And when that happens, then you can come to me and have a little talk about how I have let myself go.
I can no longer suck anything in. I am a person who regularly works out, but you know, as ladies we still have to suck in sometimes. Its an amazing trick. We look instantly thinner and can hold that look for a while. BUT...when you are in your second trimester, there is no more sucking in. And yet, I am not quite at that cute pregnancy belly phase. It's weird. I find myself changing a million times, buying super stretchy skirts, and wearing a lot of cardigans.
So, I broke down and decided to go maternity shopping. As I passed all these cute, bright spring clothes for the everyday woman, I made my way to the maternity section. HORIZONTAL STRIPES in everything???? Really??? I mean I know that a baby bump is the one time it's cute to have a belly, but come on....do I really need to accentuate it with horizontal stripes?
If the horizontal stripes weren't enough to make me laugh, then it was the awkwardness of the pants and the shorts. At first glance, I was not sold. I mean, I want the cute clothes I saw at in the normal sections of Target, Old Navy, the Gap and Forever 21 (yes I still shop there). But nonetheless, I was determined to buy some maternity clothes.
I immediately refused any item with the long belly band attached. I don't like anything too high on my stomach in my normal clothes, so I wrote them off during pregnancy. However, I was forced to try them because there aren't many options when you are preggers. I must admit...as much as it pains me...they were way more comfortable than I expected. And after trying them on repeatedly I have a new found respect for them. In fact, as I am writing this I am wearing a belly band over my non-maternity shorts (which I can no longer button or zip all the way) and feel quite comfortable.
And I have come to a new conclusion: I will be one of those women, after I have delivered this baby, that continues to wear her maternity clothes way past the normal amount of time. And when that happens, then you can come to me and have a little talk about how I have let myself go.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Lazy Lady
I think it best to start this blog with a quote from comedian Jim Gaffigan: "My wife's gotten really lazy, or as she calls it, 'pregnant'."
My husband LOVES quoting this to me these days. Probably because a day doesn't go by that I don't complain about how lazy I feel. I am one of those people that likes being busy. I usually find something to do if there is nothing on my schedule. And I am definitely not a napper. My how times have changed! All I want to do is nap.
My house has never looked so bad. The laundry has never piled up so bad. I finally started doing laundry only to pile the clean clothes up on the guest bed so I didn't have to fold them. Yep. I am that lazy. Every day I have this list of things I should do. And at the end of each day most of the list is still on the list. I am so lazy that this blog was supposed to go out last week. I think I decided to nap instead.
I signed up to be over hair and makeup for the CYT production of Mulan Jr. before I was pregnant. Several of my nieces and nephews were in it and my sister was one of the directors, so I wanted to be a part of it. This past week was tech week and the shows. I certainly didn't feel lazy, but I sure felt exhausted. It was amazing to be part of the show and worth the exhaustion. And now because I was so productive last week and this weekend, I have a new excuse for being lazy...at least for this week.
I guess next week I will be back to pulling the pregnancy card when Matt comes home to find me asleep on a pile of clothes, possible already in my pajamas, and with nothing cooked for supper.
My husband LOVES quoting this to me these days. Probably because a day doesn't go by that I don't complain about how lazy I feel. I am one of those people that likes being busy. I usually find something to do if there is nothing on my schedule. And I am definitely not a napper. My how times have changed! All I want to do is nap.
My house has never looked so bad. The laundry has never piled up so bad. I finally started doing laundry only to pile the clean clothes up on the guest bed so I didn't have to fold them. Yep. I am that lazy. Every day I have this list of things I should do. And at the end of each day most of the list is still on the list. I am so lazy that this blog was supposed to go out last week. I think I decided to nap instead.
I signed up to be over hair and makeup for the CYT production of Mulan Jr. before I was pregnant. Several of my nieces and nephews were in it and my sister was one of the directors, so I wanted to be a part of it. This past week was tech week and the shows. I certainly didn't feel lazy, but I sure felt exhausted. It was amazing to be part of the show and worth the exhaustion. And now because I was so productive last week and this weekend, I have a new excuse for being lazy...at least for this week.
I guess next week I will be back to pulling the pregnancy card when Matt comes home to find me asleep on a pile of clothes, possible already in my pajamas, and with nothing cooked for supper.
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