Harrison has a cold and he says, "My nose has a problem with the many things in it."
I made Harrison a grilled cheese and asked him if he wanted Muenster, Cheddar, or American; he got so excited and said: "I want Monster Cheese please!" For the rest of the day, Harrison would tell me how "dewishus" his "monster sandwich" was.
Harrison's current Wish List for Christmas:
The Moon
An animal that can talk without moving its lips
A great big rocket ship that flies to the moon
A watch
This kid makes me smile.
-Katy
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Harrison the Hero
I know there is much to update everyone on: Libby is three months old and so precious and Harrison is growing up so fast it's incredible. Time is surely flying and now we are on our first family trip in Raleigh, North Carolina. Matt's here on business and we all tagged along for two reasons: (1) so I could see one of my best friends who goes to law school at UNC Chapel Hill, and (2) so we could travel to Blythewood, SC this weekend and let Mickey and Papa meet Libby and see Harrison.
Today Harrison, Libby, and I were cooped up inside all day due to the cold weather and the fact that Libby felt like she might have a fever. Libby had a four hour nap in the afternoon, and she was back to her normal cheery self, so Matt and I decided to go Chuck E. Cheese so Harrison could run around and have a little fun today. While we were there, a little boy got lost in the tubes and started screaming and crying for his parents. Harrison went to the save the day. Here's Harrison's version of the story:
"When I was a superhero, then I just made the path and then I helped him get out, then I was at Chuck E. Cheese, and I helped the boy. That's how I helped the boy. "
The mom called Harrison her hero and told him that he had saved her little boy's birthday. It was a proud moment and definitely one for the blog. Of course, there have been so many other moments that we have failed to record the past three months. We will try to get better!
Love,
Katy proud mother of "Super Harrison"
Today Harrison, Libby, and I were cooped up inside all day due to the cold weather and the fact that Libby felt like she might have a fever. Libby had a four hour nap in the afternoon, and she was back to her normal cheery self, so Matt and I decided to go Chuck E. Cheese so Harrison could run around and have a little fun today. While we were there, a little boy got lost in the tubes and started screaming and crying for his parents. Harrison went to the save the day. Here's Harrison's version of the story:
"When I was a superhero, then I just made the path and then I helped him get out, then I was at Chuck E. Cheese, and I helped the boy. That's how I helped the boy. "
The mom called Harrison her hero and told him that he had saved her little boy's birthday. It was a proud moment and definitely one for the blog. Of course, there have been so many other moments that we have failed to record the past three months. We will try to get better!
Love,
Katy proud mother of "Super Harrison"
Monday, October 27, 2008
Harrison's First Blog (by HJC)
Here a story that Harrison told to Mommy today. Enjoy!
A snake came and bit my brother. Then the there were superhero snakes fighting the bad snake. Next there was a super super super big big snake. Then there was a bad snake. Two. No lots of bad snakes. There were bad guys and superhero guys and they fight each other. Just four ones.
The bad guys fight, then the good guys fight. Then the bad guys and the good guys are thirsty. Then they were tired. After they were tired, they were hungry. After they were hungry they had juice to drink and after the juice they had water.
Monday, October 13, 2008
The Storytellers
Storytelling has been a long tradition in my family. Harrison is an amazing storyteller. He has an incredible imagination and loves to learn new words when we create stories together. We have a game that we play in the car. It's eye spy, but with a twist. Some times I will spy a car or a school bus, and when Harrison guesses what I'm thinking about, we talk about where the car or bus is going, who's inside, and what their day will be like. Some times the plot twists and turns until we're discussing pirates and princesses, other times we make up stories about normal characters with interesting lives.
A couple of days ago Libby was sitting in my lap. She was melting my heart with her coos and grins. Then I asked if she would like to tell me a story. She wiggled around, her eyes grew wider and beamed, and she grinned from ear to ear before letting out a long stream of coos and ahhs. I know it was the inflection of voice and not my request for a story that prompted this adorable behavior, but I hope that in a few years I will have another little storyteller creating tales with me and her brother about princesses and the superheros who save them.
A couple of days ago Libby was sitting in my lap. She was melting my heart with her coos and grins. Then I asked if she would like to tell me a story. She wiggled around, her eyes grew wider and beamed, and she grinned from ear to ear before letting out a long stream of coos and ahhs. I know it was the inflection of voice and not my request for a story that prompted this adorable behavior, but I hope that in a few years I will have another little storyteller creating tales with me and her brother about princesses and the superheros who save them.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
R.I.P. Puppy
Yesterday was a day of milestones for the Comber family. Harrison pooped in the toilet without having an accident for the first time, a potty-training victory! Libby turned 8 weeks old and has been smiling and cooing like a champ. And, our Harrison learned his first lesson about loss.
I noticed Puppy was very still while I was preparing Harrison's lunch (ironically, lunch was leftover shrimp.) As the smell of the sea drifted from our oven, Puppy's unnaturally curved body caught my eye. I moved his bowl, Puppy's body moved with the current, fins still, his face turned toward the water's surface. I called Matt. When he answered, I could only say one word.
"Puppy."
"Oh no."
"Yeah."
Silence.
"How do I tell Harrison?"
After discussing the possible ways to break the news, I decided to tell Harrison after lunch. The idea of shrimp made me nauseous. I made two plates, and after taking a bite, I threw out my portion and sat back in my chair wondering how Harrison would take the news and thinking about what may have caused this untimely end. The bowl was clean. We fed him regularly. The temperature...oh. The temperature. The temperature in our house had dropped dramatically the night before. We hadn't turned on the heat until that morning.
After Harrison had finished his lunch, he sat in his chair licking ketchup off his finger. He put a dot of ketchup on his nose, looked over at me, and laughed.
"Harrison?"
"What?"
"Puppy died."
"Oh." he laughed again and put more ketchup on his nose. Then, he stopped. His bottom lip jutted out, and he began to process the news. Then he began to cry. "But, I will miss him."
Harrison ran to me, tears streaming down his face, and hugged me tight. "I love you, Mommy."
After holding him a bit, I talked to Harrison about burying Puppy in the front yard. We bundled Libby, put her in the car seat, and went outside. The garden frog sits near the front door and his name is Jeremy Fisher. Harrison decided to bury Puppy next to Jeremy and we went to work digging the hole together.
"Goodbye Puppy." I said.
"I will miss you." Said Harrison.
I noticed Puppy was very still while I was preparing Harrison's lunch (ironically, lunch was leftover shrimp.) As the smell of the sea drifted from our oven, Puppy's unnaturally curved body caught my eye. I moved his bowl, Puppy's body moved with the current, fins still, his face turned toward the water's surface. I called Matt. When he answered, I could only say one word.
"Puppy."
"Oh no."
"Yeah."
Silence.
"How do I tell Harrison?"
After discussing the possible ways to break the news, I decided to tell Harrison after lunch. The idea of shrimp made me nauseous. I made two plates, and after taking a bite, I threw out my portion and sat back in my chair wondering how Harrison would take the news and thinking about what may have caused this untimely end. The bowl was clean. We fed him regularly. The temperature...oh. The temperature. The temperature in our house had dropped dramatically the night before. We hadn't turned on the heat until that morning.
After Harrison had finished his lunch, he sat in his chair licking ketchup off his finger. He put a dot of ketchup on his nose, looked over at me, and laughed.
"Harrison?"
"What?"
"Puppy died."
"Oh." he laughed again and put more ketchup on his nose. Then, he stopped. His bottom lip jutted out, and he began to process the news. Then he began to cry. "But, I will miss him."
Harrison ran to me, tears streaming down his face, and hugged me tight. "I love you, Mommy."
After holding him a bit, I talked to Harrison about burying Puppy in the front yard. We bundled Libby, put her in the car seat, and went outside. The garden frog sits near the front door and his name is Jeremy Fisher. Harrison decided to bury Puppy next to Jeremy and we went to work digging the hole together.
"Goodbye Puppy." I said.
"I will miss you." Said Harrison.
****
We all miss Puppy. Harrison still goes into the kitchen and looks over where Puppy's bowl used to be. Puppy was a great first pet, despite the brief time he was with us.Puppy Nemo Comber
Rest In Peace
Beloved Fish and Inspiration
March 2008-October 7, 2008
Rest In Peace
Beloved Fish and Inspiration
March 2008-October 7, 2008
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Disappointment (by HJC)
So we went out late last night as a family to pick up shin guards for Harrison's first soccer game scheduled for today. I was so surprised with the vast selection of tiny shin guards for kids his size-- or even smaller! The cutest things I've seen.
I also noticed that equipment like shin guards, soccer socks, cleats and soccer balls have come a long way in the past 23 years. I don't remember even having a shin guard that fit until I was about 16, and by that time, I was too cool for shin guards, and would cut up my old ones to create the most minimal shin pads I could get away with. Not only that they would never fit, but they were just an added thick pad of clothe that wouldn't prevent from bruises if and when I ever was kicked in the shin. Now the shin guards fit perfectly onto a boy who is only 40" tall, with the following features "1. K-resin shell provides high impact, resistance and durability; 2. Honeycomb holes provide more ventilation and air breathability; 3. Lining material for comfortable wear and durability; 4. Fixed ankle sock; 5. EPE foam insert for ankle protection." I think he could be kicked by all 140 pee wees and never get a bruise.
So Harrison was up late with all the excitement, and I was worried he wouldn't be awake early enough to get to the field by 8am. He fell asleep around 10:15 pm with visions of soccer balls bouncing in his head. I went downstairs to see if there was anything posted on the web site about a rain cancellation. Sure enough, I first noticed the 2 new emails-- one from the PASC and another from the head of Pee Wee. "September 6 Games Cancelled Due to Hanna" the subject lines read.
I was shocked that they called all the games for the day, as I knew that the storms weren't due until the afternoon, and that only rain showers were expected in the morning hours. I was also disappointed. We were looking forward to this day for so long, and it hasn't rained for so long, and a hurricane decides to arrive on the day of one of my son's biggest milestones ever-- his first soccer game!
I stayed up late since I didn't have to get Harrison to the field early. This morning, Harrison comes into our room at 6:30 carrying my cell phone with its alarm sounding. Not only was Harrison wide awake and ready for soccer, he already took off his pajamas, put on "soccer clothes," and begging for me to wake up. I described to him that there was no game today because it was raining and he seemed to understand. However, when we looked out the window and saw no rain, it was very frustrating to me, and Harrison couldn't really understand it completely.
We are going to play some indoor soccer today, and hope that another week will help us to touch up Harrison's skills before getting to game day. He's going to be amazing. Watch out Freddy Adu.
I also noticed that equipment like shin guards, soccer socks, cleats and soccer balls have come a long way in the past 23 years. I don't remember even having a shin guard that fit until I was about 16, and by that time, I was too cool for shin guards, and would cut up my old ones to create the most minimal shin pads I could get away with. Not only that they would never fit, but they were just an added thick pad of clothe that wouldn't prevent from bruises if and when I ever was kicked in the shin. Now the shin guards fit perfectly onto a boy who is only 40" tall, with the following features "1. K-resin shell provides high impact, resistance and durability; 2. Honeycomb holes provide more ventilation and air breathability; 3. Lining material for comfortable wear and durability; 4. Fixed ankle sock; 5. EPE foam insert for ankle protection." I think he could be kicked by all 140 pee wees and never get a bruise.
So Harrison was up late with all the excitement, and I was worried he wouldn't be awake early enough to get to the field by 8am. He fell asleep around 10:15 pm with visions of soccer balls bouncing in his head. I went downstairs to see if there was anything posted on the web site about a rain cancellation. Sure enough, I first noticed the 2 new emails-- one from the PASC and another from the head of Pee Wee. "September 6 Games Cancelled Due to Hanna" the subject lines read.
I was shocked that they called all the games for the day, as I knew that the storms weren't due until the afternoon, and that only rain showers were expected in the morning hours. I was also disappointed. We were looking forward to this day for so long, and it hasn't rained for so long, and a hurricane decides to arrive on the day of one of my son's biggest milestones ever-- his first soccer game!
I stayed up late since I didn't have to get Harrison to the field early. This morning, Harrison comes into our room at 6:30 carrying my cell phone with its alarm sounding. Not only was Harrison wide awake and ready for soccer, he already took off his pajamas, put on "soccer clothes," and begging for me to wake up. I described to him that there was no game today because it was raining and he seemed to understand. However, when we looked out the window and saw no rain, it was very frustrating to me, and Harrison couldn't really understand it completely.
We are going to play some indoor soccer today, and hope that another week will help us to touch up Harrison's skills before getting to game day. He's going to be amazing. Watch out Freddy Adu.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
What we are in for.....GOL! (by MJC)
It seems like yesterday when we were in the hospital and watching Univision futbol matches as we awaited the birth of our first born, our dear Harrison. Since then, Harrison has grown into a very active 3 year old, and he is ready to play his own brand of soccer-- the Phoenixville Area Soccer Club U-6 Pee Wee League.
To prepare us as parents, and I as an assistant coach, I read up on the soccer club's home page to find what to expect. Here is what the experts say about coaching 3-5 year olds playing soccer:
To prepare us as parents, and I as an assistant coach, I read up on the soccer club's home page to find what to expect. Here is what the experts say about coaching 3-5 year olds playing soccer:
- Most players cry immediately when something is hurt. Some cry even when something is not hurt.
- No matter how loud we shout, or how much we "practice" it, they can not or will not pass the ball.
- Somebody will come off the field in need of a toilet. Somebody will stay on the field in need of a toilet.
- The only player to hold a position is the goalkeeper (if you play with one). Don't even consider teaching positional play.
- Twenty seconds after the start of a game, every player will be within 5 yards of the ball.
- Several players will slap at the ball with their hands, or pick it up. Several parents will yell at them not to do that.
- A model rocket that is launched from a nearby field will get 99% of the player's attention. By all means, stop whatever you are doing and go watch for a couple of minutes!
- During a season, you will end up tying at least 40 - 50 shoe laces.
- They will do something that is absolutely hysterical. Make sure that you laugh!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Housebound
"You need to write a blog. We can't let my Olympic weeping story be the first thing people read." Matt said this after we ate dinner and settled down for a night of relaxing with the kids.
"What in the world do I have to say or write about?" I thought. I've been practically housebound for the past two weeks recovering from surgery. The highlights from the past 14 days (besides spending time with my daughter and son) include friends and family coming to visit, going to church, a quick stop at a party for a friend of ours, time at the Combers, and a trip to the Rite Aid.
Harrison and Libby are amazing. Harrison has been getting into trouble more often to get our attention, but when it's just the three of us, he's incredibly helpful. Libby is so awesome to watch. It's amazing how she can break my heart with a yawn or a toothless grin.
I've been working on getting Libby on a routine and learning how to balance my time and energy with two kids. Matt's been Mr. Incredible with helping me around the house and his two week paternity leave was a HUGE blessing. When he went back to work on Tuesday, I was so afraid to be left alone, to be outnumbered, to be housebound with two kids. Thankfully, I had major help.
On Matt's first day back to work, he came home early and we went to the Combers to celebrate Gerry and Adia's birthday. Even though the kids were well behaved and I achieved getting both of them to take a nap at the same time, I was surprised to find that I was exhausted before I could say "Happy Birthday." On Wednesday, Matt's mom took Harrison for the afternoon. Thursday, Matt worked from home and friends from my high school brought us dinner (thanks Bri, Justin, and Avery!), and today Harrison's friends came to play in the afternoon and I was able to talk to their mom for a while. Hooray for adult conversation! It was a great way to end my first week as a stay-at-home mother of two.
This has been an insane 16 days since Libby's birth, but I can't imagine or remember what it would be/was like without her in my life. It's an amazing experience that's for sure.
-Katy
"What in the world do I have to say or write about?" I thought. I've been practically housebound for the past two weeks recovering from surgery. The highlights from the past 14 days (besides spending time with my daughter and son) include friends and family coming to visit, going to church, a quick stop at a party for a friend of ours, time at the Combers, and a trip to the Rite Aid.
Harrison and Libby are amazing. Harrison has been getting into trouble more often to get our attention, but when it's just the three of us, he's incredibly helpful. Libby is so awesome to watch. It's amazing how she can break my heart with a yawn or a toothless grin.
I've been working on getting Libby on a routine and learning how to balance my time and energy with two kids. Matt's been Mr. Incredible with helping me around the house and his two week paternity leave was a HUGE blessing. When he went back to work on Tuesday, I was so afraid to be left alone, to be outnumbered, to be housebound with two kids. Thankfully, I had major help.
On Matt's first day back to work, he came home early and we went to the Combers to celebrate Gerry and Adia's birthday. Even though the kids were well behaved and I achieved getting both of them to take a nap at the same time, I was surprised to find that I was exhausted before I could say "Happy Birthday." On Wednesday, Matt's mom took Harrison for the afternoon. Thursday, Matt worked from home and friends from my high school brought us dinner (thanks Bri, Justin, and Avery!), and today Harrison's friends came to play in the afternoon and I was able to talk to their mom for a while. Hooray for adult conversation! It was a great way to end my first week as a stay-at-home mother of two.
This has been an insane 16 days since Libby's birth, but I can't imagine or remember what it would be/was like without her in my life. It's an amazing experience that's for sure.
-Katy
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
There's no crying in the Olympics! (by MJC)
There I was, sitting with my daughter in my arms watching women's gymnastics. Shawn Johnson gets the gold. Her mom cries and is embraced by her father.
I wept.
There is just something about the pride and joy of her parents that got me thinking of watching Libby succeed in life. What will it be like to watch her graduate high school, or college? What will it be like to watch her land a great job and enjoy a career? To walk her down the aisle? To see her with her own family someday?
I am overwhelmed by my little girl's promise for her future, and that I can witness it all and root her on from the sidelines, just like the parent of an Olympian. If she becomes like Shawn-- young, bright, pretty, well spoken, respectful, and hard working-- I am sure I would also be crying for all the world to see.
Libby already holds a gold medal in my book. She is beautiful. She is patient with us as parents. She looks at us with amazement and love. And I stare back and wish her all the joy and success that life can bring.
I wept.
There is just something about the pride and joy of her parents that got me thinking of watching Libby succeed in life. What will it be like to watch her graduate high school, or college? What will it be like to watch her land a great job and enjoy a career? To walk her down the aisle? To see her with her own family someday?
I am overwhelmed by my little girl's promise for her future, and that I can witness it all and root her on from the sidelines, just like the parent of an Olympian. If she becomes like Shawn-- young, bright, pretty, well spoken, respectful, and hard working-- I am sure I would also be crying for all the world to see.
Libby already holds a gold medal in my book. She is beautiful. She is patient with us as parents. She looks at us with amazement and love. And I stare back and wish her all the joy and success that life can bring.
Monday, August 18, 2008
No Laughing...an update by MJC
So it's about 9:30 pm last night, we are watching Olympics and trying to get the kids to fall asleep. Falling asleep to the Olympics has been Harrison's latest bedtime routine since staying with his Grandma for four days, so we're sticking it with it. It also allows us to catch the Games. Harrison has taken all the pillows off the couches and has laid them in front of the TV, and has curled up with a blanket all "comfy cozy" as he says (a saying from a Blues Clues episode). As he sits there, Katy and I laugh at one of Libby's cute characteristics.
Harrison interrupts, "I don't like laughing...no more laughing Daddy."
It reminded me of my childhood dinners when my siblings and I would get rowdy at the dinner table and my dad would yell at us, "Stop it. No laughing, no smiling, no showing your teeth!"
As you could imagine, it was hard not to chuckle at the comment, and very soon Harrison was laughing himself and tickling me and all our laughing resumed.
But this was one small funny moment I wanted to share with you. It illustrates the little guy trying get attention instead of Libby. I think we are doing okay with that, but of course a newborn will always demand constant attention, so it will never be "equal."
What we are doing more and more is letting Harrison know we love him. We always did this before, but it seems that it is happening more since we need to reinforce it with all the attention that is shifting away from him. And in turn he tells us he loves us, and he tells Libby he loves her, and all is well with the world in those little fleeting moments.
Just a little update for you. Note the time. Those little fleeting moments are what keep us going with little sleep. So I hope Harrison has more in him...
Harrison interrupts, "I don't like laughing...no more laughing Daddy."
It reminded me of my childhood dinners when my siblings and I would get rowdy at the dinner table and my dad would yell at us, "Stop it. No laughing, no smiling, no showing your teeth!"
As you could imagine, it was hard not to chuckle at the comment, and very soon Harrison was laughing himself and tickling me and all our laughing resumed.
But this was one small funny moment I wanted to share with you. It illustrates the little guy trying get attention instead of Libby. I think we are doing okay with that, but of course a newborn will always demand constant attention, so it will never be "equal."
What we are doing more and more is letting Harrison know we love him. We always did this before, but it seems that it is happening more since we need to reinforce it with all the attention that is shifting away from him. And in turn he tells us he loves us, and he tells Libby he loves her, and all is well with the world in those little fleeting moments.
Just a little update for you. Note the time. Those little fleeting moments are what keep us going with little sleep. So I hope Harrison has more in him...
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Even "superheroes" need a percocet, a shower, and a couple of hours of sleep once in a while...
Warning: This blog is going to be completely random due to percocet and the quick blurbs of sleep I've been getting lately. I watched the Olympics last night! As I nursed my daughter (every hour at ten til the hour) I got to see all the coverage re-runs... it was inspiring. I want to be an Olympian when I grow up.
I just took my first shower since coming home on Friday, and it was glorious! Libby's taking a nap, Harrison's playing independently (!!!), and I'm actually on the internet while Matt watches Libby. I feel almost spoiled. :-)
I noticed that as my belly slowly disappears, so are my ankles...ah the joys of water redistribution after pregnancy. My belly is disappearing b/c my uterus is shrinking back to its normal size. Matt saw my uterus during my surgery by accident (which was pretty freaking hilarious). The sighting was prompted by the doctor (a man who saw at least ten uterui/uteruses (?) that day before mine) exclaiming "Wow! Look at that uterus!" Apparently, it's a fine looking organ.
"I could see four more coming in the future with that one!" he said.
I didn't have the heart to tell him that he would never see my uterus again since Libby will probably be our last.
The C-section wasn't nearly as traumatizing as Harrison's, mainly b/c I knew that it was going to happen. My friend Allen has this great story about how he was awake during his wisdom tooth extraction and how cool it was to hear and see everything that was going on without feeling anything. Despite the fact that a baby and not a tooth was being extracted from my body, the experience was on a slightly larger scale, but feeling my organs being shifted and hearing the doctors dialog as to everything that was going on, was indeed pretty cool.
The recovery however: not cool. In the hospital, the nurses and Matt (see the Super Hero blog) were somewhat amazed at how quickly I was progressing, and I was super proud. But here at home with the little to no sleep and a three year old who desperately wants my attention, the pains of recovery are worse and I had to take my first percocet last night. I feel somewhat defeated, but every time I look at Harrison and Libby it feels so incredibly worth it.
So I have six weeks of recovery. The first two weeks I'm not even allowed to walk up the stairs (unless absolutely necessary) or drive, or well, anything. My doctor described like this: "During your first two weeks you are a queen, the next two weeks you are a princess, and the last two weeks you'll start to behave like a commoner."
How do you behave like a queen with a three year old? Matt is doing the best he can to help, and he's an amazing dad. But, I see him burning out without getting enough sleep. Harrison wants the same amount of attention we're giving Libby, and we are still learning how to balance. His Aunt Reen (hooray for family) took him out yesterday and his cousin came over to play and see the baby, so that was good.
Okay. That's my update. I'm going to see if Libby's awake and ready for lunch before the spell ends and the quiet goes away. Much love to everyone who sent love and prayers our way after Libby's birth! Thank you!!!
I just took my first shower since coming home on Friday, and it was glorious! Libby's taking a nap, Harrison's playing independently (!!!), and I'm actually on the internet while Matt watches Libby. I feel almost spoiled. :-)
I noticed that as my belly slowly disappears, so are my ankles...ah the joys of water redistribution after pregnancy. My belly is disappearing b/c my uterus is shrinking back to its normal size. Matt saw my uterus during my surgery by accident (which was pretty freaking hilarious). The sighting was prompted by the doctor (a man who saw at least ten uterui/uteruses (?) that day before mine) exclaiming "Wow! Look at that uterus!" Apparently, it's a fine looking organ.
"I could see four more coming in the future with that one!" he said.
I didn't have the heart to tell him that he would never see my uterus again since Libby will probably be our last.
The C-section wasn't nearly as traumatizing as Harrison's, mainly b/c I knew that it was going to happen. My friend Allen has this great story about how he was awake during his wisdom tooth extraction and how cool it was to hear and see everything that was going on without feeling anything. Despite the fact that a baby and not a tooth was being extracted from my body, the experience was on a slightly larger scale, but feeling my organs being shifted and hearing the doctors dialog as to everything that was going on, was indeed pretty cool.
The recovery however: not cool. In the hospital, the nurses and Matt (see the Super Hero blog) were somewhat amazed at how quickly I was progressing, and I was super proud. But here at home with the little to no sleep and a three year old who desperately wants my attention, the pains of recovery are worse and I had to take my first percocet last night. I feel somewhat defeated, but every time I look at Harrison and Libby it feels so incredibly worth it.
So I have six weeks of recovery. The first two weeks I'm not even allowed to walk up the stairs (unless absolutely necessary) or drive, or well, anything. My doctor described like this: "During your first two weeks you are a queen, the next two weeks you are a princess, and the last two weeks you'll start to behave like a commoner."
How do you behave like a queen with a three year old? Matt is doing the best he can to help, and he's an amazing dad. But, I see him burning out without getting enough sleep. Harrison wants the same amount of attention we're giving Libby, and we are still learning how to balance. His Aunt Reen (hooray for family) took him out yesterday and his cousin came over to play and see the baby, so that was good.
Okay. That's my update. I'm going to see if Libby's awake and ready for lunch before the spell ends and the quiet goes away. Much love to everyone who sent love and prayers our way after Libby's birth! Thank you!!!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
First Night with Two Kids
Well, I think the high that comes from witnessing the miracle of birth wore off last night. Two things happened that made for a night of nearly no sleep for Katy, and a night of little sleep for me.
1. Harrison goes to sleep at 5:30pm for a "nap" and is out for the night. Which we realized meant he would wake up super early, maybe 4:30am if we're lucky. Well, with a screaming little sister to wake him up at 3:30am, that's when he woke up, and was wide awake and ready to play! Daddy-- not so ready. And Libby well, she had her own issues (see #2).
2. Katy had a craving for pizza--with peppers and onions. I thought nothing of it, until Libby had the worst indigestion and gas and meant for an all-nighter for Katy, and I was lucky enough to catch some winks during her feeding times. And I got to change some pretty gross diaper "explosions" all while holding off Harrison who wanted to see what was going on. But Libby finally settled down for a nap a few moments ago around noon. But her naps have been short and infrequent since yesterday afternoon.
Poor Katy is doing overtime trying to keep Libby fed. I am glad that Libby is eating well, as she needs to gain the weight she lost in the hospital, but I hope Katy can keep up the pace. It is almost as if Katy has been constantly feeding her since about midnight last night.
Then there is Harrison. The word "rammy" could describe it, but a word like "defiant" also comes to mind. He and I are not communicating well, partly due to my impatience and lack of sleep. But he is now off to the park with his Aunt Reen and hopefully that will lead to a much needed nap at a normal time, and get him back to a regular sleep cycle. It also gives me a bit of a break from him beating me up.
Please keep us in your prayers. Pray of course for sleep but also patience through the tired and weary hours to deal with two kids who have been cranky the last 12 hours themselves.
Sorry this wasn't as nice a blog as some of my previous. But we all must take the good with the bad, and out of the most challenging of circumstances comes the most blessed moments... so stay tuned for those...
1. Harrison goes to sleep at 5:30pm for a "nap" and is out for the night. Which we realized meant he would wake up super early, maybe 4:30am if we're lucky. Well, with a screaming little sister to wake him up at 3:30am, that's when he woke up, and was wide awake and ready to play! Daddy-- not so ready. And Libby well, she had her own issues (see #2).
2. Katy had a craving for pizza--with peppers and onions. I thought nothing of it, until Libby had the worst indigestion and gas and meant for an all-nighter for Katy, and I was lucky enough to catch some winks during her feeding times. And I got to change some pretty gross diaper "explosions" all while holding off Harrison who wanted to see what was going on. But Libby finally settled down for a nap a few moments ago around noon. But her naps have been short and infrequent since yesterday afternoon.
Poor Katy is doing overtime trying to keep Libby fed. I am glad that Libby is eating well, as she needs to gain the weight she lost in the hospital, but I hope Katy can keep up the pace. It is almost as if Katy has been constantly feeding her since about midnight last night.
Then there is Harrison. The word "rammy" could describe it, but a word like "defiant" also comes to mind. He and I are not communicating well, partly due to my impatience and lack of sleep. But he is now off to the park with his Aunt Reen and hopefully that will lead to a much needed nap at a normal time, and get him back to a regular sleep cycle. It also gives me a bit of a break from him beating me up.
Please keep us in your prayers. Pray of course for sleep but also patience through the tired and weary hours to deal with two kids who have been cranky the last 12 hours themselves.
Sorry this wasn't as nice a blog as some of my previous. But we all must take the good with the bad, and out of the most challenging of circumstances comes the most blessed moments... so stay tuned for those...
Friday, August 15, 2008
Our little Squeakers (by MJC)
So as if Libby isn't a good enough nickname, she has another-- Squeaker. She has gotten this due to her cooing which sounds more like a squeak. Like she swallowed one of those plastic stuffed animal squeaking bulbs. It is the cutest thing.
She is home now and sleeping most of the day. Harrison fell asleep as well, so now we're enjoying a little peace and quiet. And some squeaks from time to time.
She is home now and sleeping most of the day. Harrison fell asleep as well, so now we're enjoying a little peace and quiet. And some squeaks from time to time.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Super Woman
I just wanted to comment on how amazingly Katy is recovering. When I saw her first thing this morning she was sitting up, which I was surprised to see, but still not able to stand. Well, her "intense" nurse got her up, into the bathroom, walking around and feeling almost normal. In a couple hours, she got out of bed on her own, went to the bathroom, got dressed into normal people clothes, and rushed back to help me with a screaming Libby. I did a double take. It was as if she was in full swing.
I know there is a long recovery period, but tonight Katy was able to go from laying down at about 120 degrees to sitting up at 90 degrees without holding onto anything, just a straight sit-up motion. It was amazing to see after major abdomenal surgery just 24 hours prior. The nurse and I looked at each other as if to say, "Wow!" Purely Super Woman powers, I'm sure. Harrison would be happy to know his Mommy is a super hero.
I am really proud. Katy looks great, she's eating well, and she's nursing Libby well. It is so great to see, after all the hardships she endured with Harrison's birth. I am looking forward to a few weeks down the road when she and I will be working out and jogging together with the tandem stroller in tow....or we can just play Wii together. That works for me.
I know there is a long recovery period, but tonight Katy was able to go from laying down at about 120 degrees to sitting up at 90 degrees without holding onto anything, just a straight sit-up motion. It was amazing to see after major abdomenal surgery just 24 hours prior. The nurse and I looked at each other as if to say, "Wow!" Purely Super Woman powers, I'm sure. Harrison would be happy to know his Mommy is a super hero.I am really proud. Katy looks great, she's eating well, and she's nursing Libby well. It is so great to see, after all the hardships she endured with Harrison's birth. I am looking forward to a few weeks down the road when she and I will be working out and jogging together with the tandem stroller in tow....or we can just play Wii together. That works for me.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Libby arrives!
Whew....so after 40 weeks, 4 days, and about 12 hours of waiting, we finally met the little girl we were so eager to meet. And Harrison became a big brother.
Well, then came the miracle. Say what you want about c-sections, but a birth is a birth is a birth, and it was amazing and miraculous. I peeked over the curtain this time and saw the head!!! Just her head as they lifted her out. Then, they whole body was out and bingo! A girl!!!! Yay! Libby!
Elizabeth Luwynn Comber was born today at 5:39pm, weighed 7 lb 15 oz, and was 20 inches long. She was born in the Chester County Hospital, West Chester, PA via cesarean section.
It was a long day. Katy was up early with a bit of nervousness, and while I was awake from 4am-6:30am, I slept in until about 8:30am. We got things together and out the door at 10am, dropped Harrison off at Grandma's, and arrived at the hospital at 11:15am. When we were set up in the pre-op room we were told things were backed up due to many emergency c-sections. Since we had dealt with an emergency C-section with Harrison, we totally understood and were willing to wait. I even joked with Katy that she was lucky that she wasn't in pain from dealing with contractions. Kind of strange to be having a baby and not be experiencing any contractions. The hospital staff was very apologetic and accommodating, and finally at around 4:30 they were prepping us for the O.R.
I in my scrubs and Katy in her gown, we just settled down for a little c-section surgery. Why I thought it would be easy or routine after experiencing it once I do not know. It was like everything happened differently. At about 5:30pm they finally came and got me as I sat nervously in the pre-op room. By the time I arrived, the procedure was half over! The one thing that was the same was that the anesthesiologist had the same quirky sense of humor as the one we had with Harrison. The down side-- our doctor was obviously on the end of his shift and had seen his fair share of c-sections for the day. I don't even think he said a word to me during the surgery.
Well, then came the miracle. Say what you want about c-sections, but a birth is a birth is a birth, and it was amazing and miraculous. I peeked over the curtain this time and saw the head!!! Just her head as they lifted her out. Then, they whole body was out and bingo! A girl!!!! Yay! Libby!
I was able to hold her and Katy was able to get a quick look at her before they whisked her away to the nursery for weighing and measurements (again, different from when Harrison was born, where it was all done in the O.R.) I went with Libby to the nursery and saw her get weighed. Almost 8 pounds.
She looked great. Her color was a beautiful pink, she had a full head of dark hair, and her cry was soft but present. She doesn't cry much-- just like her big brother.
The next couple hours Katy sat in recovery room as Libby was cleaned up and warmed in the nursery. I raced around calling folks and meeting family and bringing them back to see Libby through the nursery window. The whole time Katy sat by herself in the recovery room. I really feel bad that I let that happen. Next time, I'll do better, honey, I promise. Then Harrison came and met Libby and that was special. He also got to see his mommy. As of now, the four of us have not been in the same room. But tomorrow, that will be a special treat.
A little after 8pm folks headed home, I ate a quick dinner, and headed back to spend time with my two favorite girls. Obviously, the long and traumatic day took its toll on them and they both drifted in and out of sleep as I watched my new little one with wonderment and awe. She seems so perfect, and life is good. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to pray for Katy as the pain will begin with the recovery from major surgery. And pray for Harrison as he spends the next couple days with small intervals of visits with mommy in the hospital.
As for me, I'm on cloud nine and my adrenalin is wearing off. But the thought of more precious moments to come will help me fall asleep and await a new day, filled with joy of welcoming Libby into this world.
Monday, August 11, 2008
The Last Day
Libby is definitely coming tomorrow. How weird is that? I know exactly when my daughter will come into the world. If I don't go into natural labor (chances are slim) by the morning, Libby will be delivered via C-section at 11:30 tomorrow morning.
My resolution to not be disappointed about having a C-section has been hard to keep. I just read my friend's blog about birthing her daughter and I felt a twinge of envy. It's hard to keep reminding myself that this does not make me less of a woman. That, in my situation, this is what's best for my daughter. That I tried my absolute best to avoid the procedure, but there were other plans.
We tried pretty much everything to induce labor. Walking and swimming everyday for hours, eating spicy food, squatting, doing lunges, Chinese food, etc... Maybe I should have scrubbed the kitchen floor...
Hmmmm. Where did I put that bucket?
Today after my pre-op appointment (blood work, meeting the anesthesiologist, getting a physical and answering medical history questions) I took Harrison to get some lunch and we had a picnic at the park. It was so much fun running (yes, the picture of pregnant me running is pretty funny) around and playing with Harrison in the beautiful weather. We stayed out for a couple of hours and until it was time to go home and take a nap. On the way back to the house we discussed what was going to happen when Mommy goes to the hospital.
Harrison's eyes widened when we spoke about Libby and her arrival. His brow furrowed when I told him that I would have to stay in the hospital for a while. His mouth turned from pout to smile when I told him he would sleepover at Grandma's his first night without Mommy. After much discussion, Harrison confirmed that he was ready to be a big brother, that he would be alright while Mommy was away, and that he was excited for tomorrow to come.
Tonight at dinner, Matt commented that it was a bit sad that this was our last night as the three Combers, and it was definitely bittersweet. The end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Our family commencement.
Libby, we are so excited to meet you. Safe travels tomorrow. You are loved, and we are blessed.
My resolution to not be disappointed about having a C-section has been hard to keep. I just read my friend's blog about birthing her daughter and I felt a twinge of envy. It's hard to keep reminding myself that this does not make me less of a woman. That, in my situation, this is what's best for my daughter. That I tried my absolute best to avoid the procedure, but there were other plans.
We tried pretty much everything to induce labor. Walking and swimming everyday for hours, eating spicy food, squatting, doing lunges, Chinese food, etc... Maybe I should have scrubbed the kitchen floor...
Hmmmm. Where did I put that bucket?
Today after my pre-op appointment (blood work, meeting the anesthesiologist, getting a physical and answering medical history questions) I took Harrison to get some lunch and we had a picnic at the park. It was so much fun running (yes, the picture of pregnant me running is pretty funny) around and playing with Harrison in the beautiful weather. We stayed out for a couple of hours and until it was time to go home and take a nap. On the way back to the house we discussed what was going to happen when Mommy goes to the hospital.
Harrison's eyes widened when we spoke about Libby and her arrival. His brow furrowed when I told him that I would have to stay in the hospital for a while. His mouth turned from pout to smile when I told him he would sleepover at Grandma's his first night without Mommy. After much discussion, Harrison confirmed that he was ready to be a big brother, that he would be alright while Mommy was away, and that he was excited for tomorrow to come.
Tonight at dinner, Matt commented that it was a bit sad that this was our last night as the three Combers, and it was definitely bittersweet. The end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Our family commencement.
Libby, we are so excited to meet you. Safe travels tomorrow. You are loved, and we are blessed.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Revelation
I was listening to a sermon in church today and I realized something. If I keep harping on the fact that I probably won't experience the birth the way I want, Libby's life would start out as an unmet expectation. I refuse to let my daughter's life to be met with disappointment with the situation. I'm giving it up to God, He knows my daughter better than anyone ever will, He's in full control over my daughter's life and how she will come into the world. I'm letting this go.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Harrison's Day (by MJC)
Since yesterday was Katy's due date (8-8-08), and the baby didn't come, it was her day. My mom took us out for lunch at Nudy's, we went shopping for last minute things at Babies R Us, we relaxed, and we ate dinner and watched the opening ceremonies of the Olympics with my parents.
Today was Harrison's day. We started with "grilled cheese" crackers in bed (normally a definite no-no given the crumb factor), then went out to the park to play ball, play on the jungle gym, and take a walk (also a mission to induce labor). We went out to lunch at Isaac's (complete with Harrison's favorites-- from pickles to cookies). We came home and went swimming at the pool, took a nap, had dinner, and went for a walk in town and stayed out late eating ice cream. He is now sleeping as we watch the Olympics.
On the way to the park, Harrison randomly blurted out, "I like Santa better."
Katy and I looked at each other. "Better than whom, Harrison?"
"I like Santa better than God," he said.
We were shocked at this. First of all, it was very random. Second, we hoped his love for Santa really didn't outweigh a love for God. We talked about it with him, and told him why God is so much better than Santa because "God made Santa. Santa wouldn't be around if it wasn't for God." I think Harrison either understood that, or realized we didn't like his initial sentiments. After a little back-and-forth from Harrison, he finally revoked his previous statement by saying "I like God. He is my BEST friend!" Katy and I, while hoping we didn't force Harrison to say something insincere about God, hope he grows to love God more than anything else, including Santa.
All in all, both days were good family days and fun for all of us. Supposedly, tomorrow is my day. I wonder what that will involve?
Today was Harrison's day. We started with "grilled cheese" crackers in bed (normally a definite no-no given the crumb factor), then went out to the park to play ball, play on the jungle gym, and take a walk (also a mission to induce labor). We went out to lunch at Isaac's (complete with Harrison's favorites-- from pickles to cookies). We came home and went swimming at the pool, took a nap, had dinner, and went for a walk in town and stayed out late eating ice cream. He is now sleeping as we watch the Olympics.
On the way to the park, Harrison randomly blurted out, "I like Santa better."
Katy and I looked at each other. "Better than whom, Harrison?"
"I like Santa better than God," he said.
We were shocked at this. First of all, it was very random. Second, we hoped his love for Santa really didn't outweigh a love for God. We talked about it with him, and told him why God is so much better than Santa because "God made Santa. Santa wouldn't be around if it wasn't for God." I think Harrison either understood that, or realized we didn't like his initial sentiments. After a little back-and-forth from Harrison, he finally revoked his previous statement by saying "I like God. He is my BEST friend!" Katy and I, while hoping we didn't force Harrison to say something insincere about God, hope he grows to love God more than anything else, including Santa.
All in all, both days were good family days and fun for all of us. Supposedly, tomorrow is my day. I wonder what that will involve?
Friday, August 8, 2008
The gift of time
My doctor gave me more time to go into labor! I'm excited about the opportunity and the extra time to have the experience, but I was kind of attached to the idea of meeting lil Libby today. So it might be today, might be tomorrow, but if not, they will schedule my C-section for Tuesday.
I need a nap!
I need a nap!
Kicked out of bed...
Libby has been pretty routine. I know when she'll be the most active, especially at night. For the past two weeks she starts to wake me up between 4:00 and 4:30. She wakes me up at other times too, but when I get up at 4:30 to stretch and use the bathroom it is difficult for me to go back to sleep.
Last night Harrison crawled into bed with us in the middle of the night. He must know that something is up because Harrison is usually a pretty sound sleeper. When I got up, I walked around a bit and looked at the bed. There he was, sprawled out in a position similar to when he slept with us as a newborn. Hands over head, snoring lightly, knees out and feet together. He's much bigger now so I had to move him in order to get back in bed, and for half an hour, just as I did when he was new, I watch his eyelids flutter as he dreamed, listened to his breathing, and felt his heartbeat close to mine. He is my first born. He is my heart. And his little world is about to be rocked.
Libby must have felt me paying attention to her brother b/c she began kicking like no other. The spell broke and I remembered the little things I need to get done before my doctor's appointment today, so I got out of bed, did some laundry and decided that this moment needed to be documented. At 8:30 today, my doctor will tell me my options. Will this be the day my little one makes her debut?
Last night Harrison crawled into bed with us in the middle of the night. He must know that something is up because Harrison is usually a pretty sound sleeper. When I got up, I walked around a bit and looked at the bed. There he was, sprawled out in a position similar to when he slept with us as a newborn. Hands over head, snoring lightly, knees out and feet together. He's much bigger now so I had to move him in order to get back in bed, and for half an hour, just as I did when he was new, I watch his eyelids flutter as he dreamed, listened to his breathing, and felt his heartbeat close to mine. He is my first born. He is my heart. And his little world is about to be rocked.
Libby must have felt me paying attention to her brother b/c she began kicking like no other. The spell broke and I remembered the little things I need to get done before my doctor's appointment today, so I got out of bed, did some laundry and decided that this moment needed to be documented. At 8:30 today, my doctor will tell me my options. Will this be the day my little one makes her debut?
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Waiting...
Well, I had my ultrasound yesterday. Libby grew from being in the 45th percentile to the 75th percentile in one month's time! Her head measured 41 weeks large while her body measured approx. 39 weeks and 6 days. She's already 8 pounds 9 ounces, and I'm starting to come to terms with the fact that my chances of a V-BAC are slim.
Harrison was 9 pounds 1 ounce and he was too big for me to deliver, so with Libby so close to her brother's weight already, I'm thinking that I need to start praying for either a miracle birth or just a safe delivery via C-section. Either way, all I really want is a healthy child.
With everyone praying for me and encouraging me, I feel so supported. However, I can't help but think that I would be letting other people down or some of my friends and family members wouldn't understand my decision if I opt for going for the C-section instead of attempting a risky V-BAC with the high chance of needing a "C" during labor and delivery.
My hope is that the decision will become clear when the time is right.
Gotta go; I have a LOT of thinking and praying to do.
Love,
Katy
Harrison was 9 pounds 1 ounce and he was too big for me to deliver, so with Libby so close to her brother's weight already, I'm thinking that I need to start praying for either a miracle birth or just a safe delivery via C-section. Either way, all I really want is a healthy child.
With everyone praying for me and encouraging me, I feel so supported. However, I can't help but think that I would be letting other people down or some of my friends and family members wouldn't understand my decision if I opt for going for the C-section instead of attempting a risky V-BAC with the high chance of needing a "C" during labor and delivery.
My hope is that the decision will become clear when the time is right.
Gotta go; I have a LOT of thinking and praying to do.
Love,
Katy
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Food Critic (by MJC)
Harrison could be so many things when he grows up, and we discussed this today with him, and he told us that he is going to play baseball. When we asked him what Libby will do when she grows up, he said that she is going to watch him play baseball. Well, I can honestly see that he already has a natural pitching arm and the tall lanky build that lends to being a major league pitcher. And he has a love for the game. I saw that when he stayed out and played whiffle ball with my brothers and me for nearly a full hour without losing interest. And he was our batting practice pitcher. Not bad for a 3 year old.
But as I think about it, it is amazing how much potential this little guy has and I wonder what his future holds for him every day. He could be a doctor, and has shown that he loves to make us all feel better playing doctor and checking our hearts and temperatures and blood pressure and giving us shots. He even told us with great certainty that Libby is coming Thursday after giving Mommy and Libby a check-up. He could be a writer with his wild imagination and amazing love of story telling. Not to mention the crazy dreams he has, which must be a hereditary gift from his mother.
He could be a pilot, a teacher, a mechanic, a journalist, the president of the US, a chef....anything really. That just amazes me-- how much I long for the day he finds out what he wants to be. I'm still figuring that out. I am sure my parents didn't watch me playing in the house developing insurance exams. But when I was young I don't know if I ever believed I could do great things. I think Harrison does. And I believe he can.
But the latest of his talents was revealed today at the dinner table. Food Critic. Tonight must have been a blue moon, as I made dinner. And it wasn't breakfast for dinner. I wanted to make the breast of chicken that I had bought a few nights back. The thought of grilled marinated chicken sounded amazing to me. So I came up with a marinade out of the little ingredients we had available. Soy sauce, garlic, a splash of A-1 sauce, and fresh pineapple. I have to say I feel that I executed it well, and Katy did a great job with the frozen chicken fried rice and the fresh broccoli, and I knew we were in for a treat. I just hoped that Harrison liked the marinade. As he grabbed the pineapple slices off the serving plate and put them in his mouth still hot, I figured he would probably like the flavor of the pineapple.
He ate a few pineapple pieces, and then took a bite of the chicken before Katy and I had a chance to sit down or serve ourselves. And out came a very enthusiastic comment. "Daddy, you are the best cooker I ever saw!" I never felt so proud. A 3 year old food critic loved my meal. My ego swelled and I thought that maybe I should even go into business with my brother Shane, a chef at a little place in New Hope, Esca. And then I came back to the real world.
We ate and the meal was good. Harrison shared the same sentiment to his mother for making the broccoli and fried rice. "Mommy, your the best cooker, too!" He said, and Katy and I agreed that sharing that title wasn't a bad thing when you are the parents of a 3 year old. But it just goes to show you that Harrison has so much more real good food to experience to have! As he does, maybe his talent will make him a great food critic. For now, I'll take my one good review and quit while I'm ahead for a little while.
*disclaimer- I wrote this blog in the dark at 10:30 at night, exhausted, and without my glasses. Please forgive any misspellings, poor grammar, or typos. But let this be a tribute to my dedication to this blog and capturing the great moments my family shares.
But as I think about it, it is amazing how much potential this little guy has and I wonder what his future holds for him every day. He could be a doctor, and has shown that he loves to make us all feel better playing doctor and checking our hearts and temperatures and blood pressure and giving us shots. He even told us with great certainty that Libby is coming Thursday after giving Mommy and Libby a check-up. He could be a writer with his wild imagination and amazing love of story telling. Not to mention the crazy dreams he has, which must be a hereditary gift from his mother.
He could be a pilot, a teacher, a mechanic, a journalist, the president of the US, a chef....anything really. That just amazes me-- how much I long for the day he finds out what he wants to be. I'm still figuring that out. I am sure my parents didn't watch me playing in the house developing insurance exams. But when I was young I don't know if I ever believed I could do great things. I think Harrison does. And I believe he can.
But the latest of his talents was revealed today at the dinner table. Food Critic. Tonight must have been a blue moon, as I made dinner. And it wasn't breakfast for dinner. I wanted to make the breast of chicken that I had bought a few nights back. The thought of grilled marinated chicken sounded amazing to me. So I came up with a marinade out of the little ingredients we had available. Soy sauce, garlic, a splash of A-1 sauce, and fresh pineapple. I have to say I feel that I executed it well, and Katy did a great job with the frozen chicken fried rice and the fresh broccoli, and I knew we were in for a treat. I just hoped that Harrison liked the marinade. As he grabbed the pineapple slices off the serving plate and put them in his mouth still hot, I figured he would probably like the flavor of the pineapple.
He ate a few pineapple pieces, and then took a bite of the chicken before Katy and I had a chance to sit down or serve ourselves. And out came a very enthusiastic comment. "Daddy, you are the best cooker I ever saw!" I never felt so proud. A 3 year old food critic loved my meal. My ego swelled and I thought that maybe I should even go into business with my brother Shane, a chef at a little place in New Hope, Esca. And then I came back to the real world.
We ate and the meal was good. Harrison shared the same sentiment to his mother for making the broccoli and fried rice. "Mommy, your the best cooker, too!" He said, and Katy and I agreed that sharing that title wasn't a bad thing when you are the parents of a 3 year old. But it just goes to show you that Harrison has so much more real good food to experience to have! As he does, maybe his talent will make him a great food critic. For now, I'll take my one good review and quit while I'm ahead for a little while.
*disclaimer- I wrote this blog in the dark at 10:30 at night, exhausted, and without my glasses. Please forgive any misspellings, poor grammar, or typos. But let this be a tribute to my dedication to this blog and capturing the great moments my family shares.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Farmers' Market
My friend Bri posted a link to Local Harvest: this great site will tell you about any farmers' markets located in your area. It's awesome and it's a great way to support local farmers! I found the Phoenixville Farmers' Market website using local harvest and it sounds like an amazing place. I really want to check it out on Saturday. If we go, I'll write a review for all you locals.
My Super Kids
Last night I had a dream that Libby had super powers. She could shoot fire from her hands and she had gills so she could breathe under water. She had to sleep in a mini-fridge to regulate her body temperature. Man, I hope I have crazy dreams like this after she's born! :-)
When I woke up, Matt had left for his Bible study and Harrison was very quiet. It was 8:30 and I was amazed that he let me sleep in. When I opened his door, I expected a huge mess. Instead, there he was-- perched on his bed reading one of his books. When I sat next to him, he started summarizing on the contents of each page as if he was reading to me. I can't wait to start teaching this little guy to read!
The book was about a surprise party, and I wondered if Harrison remembered that his daddy's surprise party was today. Matt's office threw us a baby shower. I told Harrison about it yesterday, and I was somewhat amazed that he kept the secret. I didn't think that Matt would be surprised at all (he's never surprised...about anything! Which is pretty annoying for a wife who loves to surprise people.) and he was!
The shower was great, and the people in Matt's department were so incredibly generous to us. Libby got a teddy and a gift certificate to Babies R Us and Harrison received an "I'm the Big Brother" t-shirt. Thanks everyone for such a great time!
When I woke up, Matt had left for his Bible study and Harrison was very quiet. It was 8:30 and I was amazed that he let me sleep in. When I opened his door, I expected a huge mess. Instead, there he was-- perched on his bed reading one of his books. When I sat next to him, he started summarizing on the contents of each page as if he was reading to me. I can't wait to start teaching this little guy to read!
The book was about a surprise party, and I wondered if Harrison remembered that his daddy's surprise party was today. Matt's office threw us a baby shower. I told Harrison about it yesterday, and I was somewhat amazed that he kept the secret. I didn't think that Matt would be surprised at all (he's never surprised...about anything! Which is pretty annoying for a wife who loves to surprise people.) and he was!
The shower was great, and the people in Matt's department were so incredibly generous to us. Libby got a teddy and a gift certificate to Babies R Us and Harrison received an "I'm the Big Brother" t-shirt. Thanks everyone for such a great time!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Our little Birthday Santa
Harrison was a night owl last night. When I arrived home at 7:30pm, he was just waking up from his nap, so I figured one of two things would happen: 1) he would eat dinner and go right back to sleep watching a movie, or 2) he would be up very, very late. When he had a major meltdown due to getting water in a sippy-cup rather than bottled water, I figured it would be the latter.
Yesterday was my brother Shane’s birthday, and while we celebrated it Monday, Harrison and Mommy bought the present yesterday to drop off at my mom’s for him to receive when he returned from a night at the Police concert. We came up with a great themed present to go along with his night of Police, and while I made up the card, Harrison wanted to wrap the presents. I didn’t understand what he was saying at first “I WANNA WAP ‘SENTS!” Finally, he was able to slow down and tell me that he wanted to get wrapping paper to wrap Shane’s gifts. So, we went up stairs and picked out the least feminine looking gift bag we could find, and two pieces of “wrapping paper” or tissue paper, we came down stairs, and I taught Harrison how to wrap a gift in a gift bag using tissue paper.
I then told him that I was going to go to Grandma’s to drop it off for his uncle. “Uncle Shane’s at Grandma’s?” He asked as his brow curled up and his head titled to one side.
“No, Uncle Shane is at a concert, but I am going to leave it for him to open when he gets home.”
With this I could tell his little mind was racing with questions and trying to piece it all together. But then he said something that was truly hilarious and imaginative. “Like Santa?” He said and then smiled, like he knew that what just came out of his mouth was adorable.
Katy and I laughed and agreed that it was kind of like a Santa-mission, leaving a present for someone to open later without us there. Then Harrison indicated that he wanted to play Santa. Despite my urge to reply with a quote from A Christmas story, “No Ralphie, you played Santa last year,” I refrained. I looked at my watch, then at Katy and said, “It’s 9:30...What do you think” Again, Katy thought it a great plan for him to play Santa, then fall asleep on the drive home, so we went along with it.
I don’t know if I ever saw him so happy. He smiled, laughed, and jumped up and down. He was so happy it was cliché. But it showed me in a real concrete way that giving can be so much fun. And that is mostly why I agreed to take Harrison out at 9:30 at night, despite the neighbors looking at me like I was crazy for taking a 3 year old out at such a late hour.
Our mission was successful. Go to Grandma’s, print card, leave it for Shane. Harrison even got a bonus—leftover birthday cake. A little stale, but good. However, I believe this was a mistake on my part. Too much sugar, too late. The thought crossed my mind, but my irrational side said It is so late and he is so tired that he will still fall asleep. On the drive home, I kept looking in the rearview to see that his eyes were wide open. Uh-oh, too much stimulation + too much sugar = up way too late. When we got home, he wasn’t asleep, and he was bargaining for 5 minutes (which is never 5 minutes). It turned out to be nearly 11:30pm before he finally went to sleep. One of the latest nights he has ever had. But, as I think back, being Santa is a very important job and requires one to stay up late. The small price to pay is his Christmas-in-July hangover that my wife will need to deal with today. Merry Christmas, Katy!
Yesterday was my brother Shane’s birthday, and while we celebrated it Monday, Harrison and Mommy bought the present yesterday to drop off at my mom’s for him to receive when he returned from a night at the Police concert. We came up with a great themed present to go along with his night of Police, and while I made up the card, Harrison wanted to wrap the presents. I didn’t understand what he was saying at first “I WANNA WAP ‘SENTS!” Finally, he was able to slow down and tell me that he wanted to get wrapping paper to wrap Shane’s gifts. So, we went up stairs and picked out the least feminine looking gift bag we could find, and two pieces of “wrapping paper” or tissue paper, we came down stairs, and I taught Harrison how to wrap a gift in a gift bag using tissue paper.
I then told him that I was going to go to Grandma’s to drop it off for his uncle. “Uncle Shane’s at Grandma’s?” He asked as his brow curled up and his head titled to one side.
“No, Uncle Shane is at a concert, but I am going to leave it for him to open when he gets home.”
With this I could tell his little mind was racing with questions and trying to piece it all together. But then he said something that was truly hilarious and imaginative. “Like Santa?” He said and then smiled, like he knew that what just came out of his mouth was adorable.
Katy and I laughed and agreed that it was kind of like a Santa-mission, leaving a present for someone to open later without us there. Then Harrison indicated that he wanted to play Santa. Despite my urge to reply with a quote from A Christmas story, “No Ralphie, you played Santa last year,” I refrained. I looked at my watch, then at Katy and said, “It’s 9:30...What do you think” Again, Katy thought it a great plan for him to play Santa, then fall asleep on the drive home, so we went along with it.
I don’t know if I ever saw him so happy. He smiled, laughed, and jumped up and down. He was so happy it was cliché. But it showed me in a real concrete way that giving can be so much fun. And that is mostly why I agreed to take Harrison out at 9:30 at night, despite the neighbors looking at me like I was crazy for taking a 3 year old out at such a late hour.
Our mission was successful. Go to Grandma’s, print card, leave it for Shane. Harrison even got a bonus—leftover birthday cake. A little stale, but good. However, I believe this was a mistake on my part. Too much sugar, too late. The thought crossed my mind, but my irrational side said It is so late and he is so tired that he will still fall asleep. On the drive home, I kept looking in the rearview to see that his eyes were wide open. Uh-oh, too much stimulation + too much sugar = up way too late. When we got home, he wasn’t asleep, and he was bargaining for 5 minutes (which is never 5 minutes). It turned out to be nearly 11:30pm before he finally went to sleep. One of the latest nights he has ever had. But, as I think back, being Santa is a very important job and requires one to stay up late. The small price to pay is his Christmas-in-July hangover that my wife will need to deal with today. Merry Christmas, Katy!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Bending Down: Reason 101 for why I can't wait for this child to be born.
Today I thought I had timed everything perfectly for Harrison's nap. I would wear him out at "Aunt" Tricia's house while he played with Jayden, run a few errands, and bingo! A sleeping Harrison in the car seat on the way home. He fell asleep as soon as we turned into the neighborhood, and I breathed a sigh of relief. Yes! I can take a nap and maybe have some "me" time to write and journal about all the emotional stuff I've been going through lately. Um. Yeah.
We pull into the parking spot in front of our house. There are men with weed-whackers and lawn mowers in our front yard. Maintenance day. Totally forgot. Harrison miraculously stays asleep. What an angel! I take my keys, my purse, and Harrison's bag out of the car, and I have to make a decision--leave Harrison in the car for a split second to unlock the tricky front door or attempt to unlock the door with a 33 lb three-year-old in my arms. It's hot. I decide to risk it and I pick up Harrison with my arms full and position the keys so they are ready to unlock the door.
I get to the door. I look at Harrison (still asleep), I take a second to give the men yelling across the parking lot a withering stare, I shift Harrison to position him onto my left hip, and I raise my right hand to unlock the door.
I drop the keys.
Less than gracefully (read: about as graceful as one can be while 38 weeks preggers and a sleeping toddler in her arms), I somehow attempt to dip Harrison and squat down to retrieve the keys. Harrison squirms a bit. Still asleep. I grab the keys from the floor and very awkwardly stand up. I get the key into the lock. Turn the key. The key "CLICKS."
Harrison wakes up.
Now, as I take a moment to write this, Harrison is protesting his nap by shouting down the vent that links his room with the kitchen (our intercom system). I told him that he can't leave his room until he takes his nap, and I'm really surprised that he's actually listening to me about that. I'm going to go check on him now, but I just want to say I really don't want to be pregnant anymore. Come out Libby... please???!!!
We pull into the parking spot in front of our house. There are men with weed-whackers and lawn mowers in our front yard. Maintenance day. Totally forgot. Harrison miraculously stays asleep. What an angel! I take my keys, my purse, and Harrison's bag out of the car, and I have to make a decision--leave Harrison in the car for a split second to unlock the tricky front door or attempt to unlock the door with a 33 lb three-year-old in my arms. It's hot. I decide to risk it and I pick up Harrison with my arms full and position the keys so they are ready to unlock the door.
I get to the door. I look at Harrison (still asleep), I take a second to give the men yelling across the parking lot a withering stare, I shift Harrison to position him onto my left hip, and I raise my right hand to unlock the door.
I drop the keys.
Less than gracefully (read: about as graceful as one can be while 38 weeks preggers and a sleeping toddler in her arms), I somehow attempt to dip Harrison and squat down to retrieve the keys. Harrison squirms a bit. Still asleep. I grab the keys from the floor and very awkwardly stand up. I get the key into the lock. Turn the key. The key "CLICKS."
Harrison wakes up.
Now, as I take a moment to write this, Harrison is protesting his nap by shouting down the vent that links his room with the kitchen (our intercom system). I told him that he can't leave his room until he takes his nap, and I'm really surprised that he's actually listening to me about that. I'm going to go check on him now, but I just want to say I really don't want to be pregnant anymore. Come out Libby... please???!!!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Dazed and Confused
My doctor from last week must have written a note in my file: "Cries at the mention of a C-section."
My doctor this week was a major advocate for V-BAC. He was encouraging and friendly towards the idea. He told me that my chances were good (still 60%) and that Libby was much smaller than Harrison, so the delivery may have a completely different outcome.
For the past few days, I have been trying to come to terms with the possibility of a C-section. So I mentioned the idea of scheduling one next week on the day I turn 40 weeks pregnant. Dr. Mansfield said it was possible, but that I should wait until my appointment next Friday to make my decision. He also scheduled another ultrasound to get more information about Libby's size and weight so that the decision making process is an informed one. Last week they gave me a paper on V-BACs and repeated C-sections that I have to sign by next Friday to let them know I have committed to a decision.
The paper says that V-BAC has less risks than a repeated C-section, but that if I have to have a C-section during labor that is even riskier. So next Friday, if Libby doesn't show up before then, I will have to make the decision of whether I should have them break my water or go in for a C-section. The reason for my title--I have no idea what to do.
Thanks to everyone who has written and has offered their prayers and support. My prayer for right now is that Libby will either come on her own time before next Friday or that the information we get next week will clarify which is the best and safest choice for me and Libby.
My doctor this week was a major advocate for V-BAC. He was encouraging and friendly towards the idea. He told me that my chances were good (still 60%) and that Libby was much smaller than Harrison, so the delivery may have a completely different outcome.
For the past few days, I have been trying to come to terms with the possibility of a C-section. So I mentioned the idea of scheduling one next week on the day I turn 40 weeks pregnant. Dr. Mansfield said it was possible, but that I should wait until my appointment next Friday to make my decision. He also scheduled another ultrasound to get more information about Libby's size and weight so that the decision making process is an informed one. Last week they gave me a paper on V-BACs and repeated C-sections that I have to sign by next Friday to let them know I have committed to a decision.
The paper says that V-BAC has less risks than a repeated C-section, but that if I have to have a C-section during labor that is even riskier. So next Friday, if Libby doesn't show up before then, I will have to make the decision of whether I should have them break my water or go in for a C-section. The reason for my title--I have no idea what to do.
Thanks to everyone who has written and has offered their prayers and support. My prayer for right now is that Libby will either come on her own time before next Friday or that the information we get next week will clarify which is the best and safest choice for me and Libby.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Middle Name Scrabble
As Matt so aptly put it: "It's like we've been playing scrabble for the past three days..."
I really want a middle name for Libby that honors both my sister and my grandmother. My sister's name is Wynn and my grandmother's name is Mildred Louise. Matt totally squashed the idea of two middle names and so we've been trying to think of the perfect combination of the two names. We think we have it! But, it's going to be a surprise. HA!
Hey, we gave you the gender and the first name... we have to have something to tell you. :-)
Love,
Katy
I really want a middle name for Libby that honors both my sister and my grandmother. My sister's name is Wynn and my grandmother's name is Mildred Louise. Matt totally squashed the idea of two middle names and so we've been trying to think of the perfect combination of the two names. We think we have it! But, it's going to be a surprise. HA!
Hey, we gave you the gender and the first name... we have to have something to tell you. :-)
Love,
Katy
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Breakfast for Dinner
The Comber family likes to have breakfast for dinner nights. Breakfast is Matt's specialty and sometimes he likes to give me the night off.
This morning Harrison knocked on our door to say "good morning" and told us he made something for us. He brought in an Ikea storage container and told us it was a pizza. The pizza was called a "Macaroni and Cheese" pizza. After we pretended to gobble and swallow the delicious invention, Harrison made a "Breakfast Pizza." Toppings included eggs, sun (yes, he said sun. As in the bright star our planet revolves around), pepper, cheese, sauce, salt, more cheese, special cheese, more salt, and more cheese. What can I say? The kid loves cheese.
The breakfast pizza sounded so good (minus the extra salt) that Matt and I decided to research recipes on how to make such a concoction. The recipes we found were basically the same and I was surprised to see that so many recipes existed.
The recipe I settled on was from Cooks.com which I pretty much followed to a tee. I substituted cooked turkey bacon for the sausage and added bell peppers and onions. I also doubled the amount of cheese per the request of you-know-who. It was AWESOME! For an added bonus: the slices are super filling, so we have leftovers for breakfast tomorrow.
This morning Harrison knocked on our door to say "good morning" and told us he made something for us. He brought in an Ikea storage container and told us it was a pizza. The pizza was called a "Macaroni and Cheese" pizza. After we pretended to gobble and swallow the delicious invention, Harrison made a "Breakfast Pizza." Toppings included eggs, sun (yes, he said sun. As in the bright star our planet revolves around), pepper, cheese, sauce, salt, more cheese, special cheese, more salt, and more cheese. What can I say? The kid loves cheese.
The breakfast pizza sounded so good (minus the extra salt) that Matt and I decided to research recipes on how to make such a concoction. The recipes we found were basically the same and I was surprised to see that so many recipes existed.
The recipe I settled on was from Cooks.com which I pretty much followed to a tee. I substituted cooked turkey bacon for the sausage and added bell peppers and onions. I also doubled the amount of cheese per the request of you-know-who. It was AWESOME! For an added bonus: the slices are super filling, so we have leftovers for breakfast tomorrow.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Middle Naming (by MJC)
Today was a great day for our family, although it started off rough. I left for work a little earlier than usual, needing to put in some extra hours. This seemed to upset Harrison, who cried, "I miss Daddy" for nearly an hour after I had left.
To help calm him down, we decided that Harrison and Mommy would come to Bala Cynwyd to have lunch with Daddy and see his office. So we went out to lunch at The Adobe Cafe in Manayunk/Roxborough and had a great time as a family, then went to work with Daddy, where Harrison got a new puppy friend, and little frog, and got to meet some new people. Everyone there loved the treat of seeing the little Comber, and his mommy too.
Harrison and Mommy then went home to get a visit from our friend Susan who came bearing gifts as well-- a blanket for Libby and a dog dressed as a Phillie (and now known as Chase Utley). Soon afterwards, Aunt Reen and Uncle Jim took Harrison to the Kimberton Fair! He rode in a race car. on a helicopter, on a horse of the merry-go-round, and even won a prize fishing-- his very own Pink Power Ranger, despite Reen and Jim insisting he get something a little more boy friendly. Sure enough, he wanted the pink "super hero" so that is what he came home with.
While Harrison was at the fair, Mommy and Daddy had their last "date" before Libby comes. We went out to downtown Phoenixville, walked around and ate at Molly Maguire's Irish Pub. We enjoyed good food in a nice quiet corner of the restaurant. We discussed what Libby's middle name would be. This is our latest controversy-- will it be Wynn or Louise? Or, as Katy suggested, both. Two middle names? After Harrison wasn't even given one middle name, only a middle initial? (We couldn't decide on the many names we liked beginning with the letter J and decided that he can chose what the J stands for when he is older).
So how about combining Wynn and Louise into one name? Out came a piece of paper as we wrote down as many different combinations imaginable-- from Luwynne to Wylie to McWynn (combination of Wynn and Mickey, Katy's sister's name and her grandmother's nickname). We left with a piece of scrap paper filled with very odd looking name combinations. We did decide on one thing-- if the baby is born on July 29th, my oldest brother's birthday, her middle name will be after him-- Shane (or Shayne).
Such is the crazy fun we had on this, the 38-week mark of Katy's pregnancy. We are down to the home stretch. We can see the finish line, but we are not quite sure Libby can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even if she does come sooner rather than later, we might have to pick out letters from a hat containing W, Y, N, N, L, O, U, I, S, and E, and see what name is spelled out.
Back when we were dating, we used to play a lot of Scrabble, so that may be the best strategy. As long as we hit the double-word score!
To help calm him down, we decided that Harrison and Mommy would come to Bala Cynwyd to have lunch with Daddy and see his office. So we went out to lunch at The Adobe Cafe in Manayunk/Roxborough and had a great time as a family, then went to work with Daddy, where Harrison got a new puppy friend, and little frog, and got to meet some new people. Everyone there loved the treat of seeing the little Comber, and his mommy too.
Harrison and Mommy then went home to get a visit from our friend Susan who came bearing gifts as well-- a blanket for Libby and a dog dressed as a Phillie (and now known as Chase Utley). Soon afterwards, Aunt Reen and Uncle Jim took Harrison to the Kimberton Fair! He rode in a race car. on a helicopter, on a horse of the merry-go-round, and even won a prize fishing-- his very own Pink Power Ranger, despite Reen and Jim insisting he get something a little more boy friendly. Sure enough, he wanted the pink "super hero" so that is what he came home with.
While Harrison was at the fair, Mommy and Daddy had their last "date" before Libby comes. We went out to downtown Phoenixville, walked around and ate at Molly Maguire's Irish Pub. We enjoyed good food in a nice quiet corner of the restaurant. We discussed what Libby's middle name would be. This is our latest controversy-- will it be Wynn or Louise? Or, as Katy suggested, both. Two middle names? After Harrison wasn't even given one middle name, only a middle initial? (We couldn't decide on the many names we liked beginning with the letter J and decided that he can chose what the J stands for when he is older).
So how about combining Wynn and Louise into one name? Out came a piece of paper as we wrote down as many different combinations imaginable-- from Luwynne to Wylie to McWynn (combination of Wynn and Mickey, Katy's sister's name and her grandmother's nickname). We left with a piece of scrap paper filled with very odd looking name combinations. We did decide on one thing-- if the baby is born on July 29th, my oldest brother's birthday, her middle name will be after him-- Shane (or Shayne).
Such is the crazy fun we had on this, the 38-week mark of Katy's pregnancy. We are down to the home stretch. We can see the finish line, but we are not quite sure Libby can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Even if she does come sooner rather than later, we might have to pick out letters from a hat containing W, Y, N, N, L, O, U, I, S, and E, and see what name is spelled out.
Back when we were dating, we used to play a lot of Scrabble, so that may be the best strategy. As long as we hit the double-word score!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Waiting for a new arrival (by MJC)
I'm restless. I am not sleeping much, and when I finally do, I don't want to wake up in the morning and go to work. When I'm at work, my mind is distracted with the thought that the baby is due any minute. I do have a lot to do at work, but I find it very difficult to concentrate.
I've tried to make myself busy when I am up late. I straightened up our room and organized Libby's clothes by size. A pile for NB, a pile for 0-3 mos, a pile for 3-6 mos, etc. The smell of Dreft reminded me of how much I love the smell of a baby. I never realized it was the Dreft until last night as I took the clothes out of the dryer and caught a big whiff. Such a sweet smell, it made me anxious for her to be here already! A little girl. A daddy's girl.
At work today, after hours, I even spent time drafting the email I will send to my colleagues once the baby is born, in the few moments I will have to gain access to the internet when I peal myself away from Katy and the baby following the birth.
I can tell Harrison knows change is brewing. I step into the house and he starts scaling the furniture, hugging me, clinging to me, punching me. Whatever he can do to get attention, he is already doing it. I sure hope he doesn't feel any resentment towards the baby. So far, he has been excited about her coming, and nice to Libby inside Mommy's belly. I'm just afraid that the couple days of Mommy and Daddy being away at the hospital might make those feelings change towards pure jealousy. But I hope that's not the case.
I've been easing my restlessness with my addiction to facebook and Wii. So trendy of me, I know. But anything to keep my mind from worry and anxiety. So as I wait these next 2 or more weeks, send word of how you are doing. Because in a few weeks, I won't know anything else in the world exists besides my family.
I've tried to make myself busy when I am up late. I straightened up our room and organized Libby's clothes by size. A pile for NB, a pile for 0-3 mos, a pile for 3-6 mos, etc. The smell of Dreft reminded me of how much I love the smell of a baby. I never realized it was the Dreft until last night as I took the clothes out of the dryer and caught a big whiff. Such a sweet smell, it made me anxious for her to be here already! A little girl. A daddy's girl.
At work today, after hours, I even spent time drafting the email I will send to my colleagues once the baby is born, in the few moments I will have to gain access to the internet when I peal myself away from Katy and the baby following the birth.
I can tell Harrison knows change is brewing. I step into the house and he starts scaling the furniture, hugging me, clinging to me, punching me. Whatever he can do to get attention, he is already doing it. I sure hope he doesn't feel any resentment towards the baby. So far, he has been excited about her coming, and nice to Libby inside Mommy's belly. I'm just afraid that the couple days of Mommy and Daddy being away at the hospital might make those feelings change towards pure jealousy. But I hope that's not the case.
I've been easing my restlessness with my addiction to facebook and Wii. So trendy of me, I know. But anything to keep my mind from worry and anxiety. So as I wait these next 2 or more weeks, send word of how you are doing. Because in a few weeks, I won't know anything else in the world exists besides my family.
Libby Update
So I just got home from an emotional visit to the doctor's office. I went hoping to hear that I was somewhat dilated or that my chances of a V-BAC were high. Instead, I got the "prepare for a C-Section" information sheet and the doctor told me that my chances of a natural childbirth were about 60 percent. Sixty percent is pretty good, but as soon as the doctor told me that I needed to prepare for the possibility of a C-section I started crying.
I know I sound selfish and melodramatic, but natural childbirth is something I've always wanted to experience. When the doctor started talking about the possibility of a C-section, I felt grief. Childbirth is a rite of womanhood--or at least that's how I see it, and it's not that I frown upon women who choose medication or schedule C-sections, but for me, it's as if I didn't birth the child. With Harrison's C-section I grieved over the way he came into the world and celebrated him simultaneously. Talk about an emotional roller coaster.
I guess when it comes down to what's most important, the priority of Libby's health and safety tops my experience in the delivery room, and it's better that I prepare for this now than right before she comes into the world-- whether through the door or the window.
I know I sound selfish and melodramatic, but natural childbirth is something I've always wanted to experience. When the doctor started talking about the possibility of a C-section, I felt grief. Childbirth is a rite of womanhood--or at least that's how I see it, and it's not that I frown upon women who choose medication or schedule C-sections, but for me, it's as if I didn't birth the child. With Harrison's C-section I grieved over the way he came into the world and celebrated him simultaneously. Talk about an emotional roller coaster.
I guess when it comes down to what's most important, the priority of Libby's health and safety tops my experience in the delivery room, and it's better that I prepare for this now than right before she comes into the world-- whether through the door or the window.
Monday, July 14, 2008
Anxiety Dream
Last night I had one of my crazy anxiety dreams. A strange woman gave me a cookie. The cookie was made of gingerbread and shaped like a little baby. I began to eat around the face of the cookie and I heard Libby crying. I stopped eating and went to check on my baby. Libby's hair and the tip of her ear were missing. I looked at the cookie in my hands and the cookie began to cry along with my daughter. It was the same cry. I woke up.
What was that all about? Matt laughed when I told him about it, but I'm still a little spooked.
Matt's going to Madison, WI today and coming back Thursday night. Please pray that Libby waits for Daddy to come home!
What was that all about? Matt laughed when I told him about it, but I'm still a little spooked.
Matt's going to Madison, WI today and coming back Thursday night. Please pray that Libby waits for Daddy to come home!
Sunday, July 13, 2008
The Reading Philies and the Kitchen Sink (by KAC)
The two aren't related... at all. Except the fact that we did go to see a Reading Phils game the same week our kitchen sink drama ensued. Oh how arrogant I was when I thought I had fixed the sink all by myself. We even went to enjoy the Reading Phils game on Thursday without plumber "snakes" and plungers dancing around our heads.
It was my first game (that I can recall) at Reading's First Energy Stadium. The Reading Phils have a slew of mascots, an unbelievably clean stadium, fireworks after each run, film clips from Napoleon Dynamite and countless other film references to celebrate little victories.
The first inning was about an hour long. The top half was a quick "1,2,3" and then the pitcher for the rival team decided to work on his pitching mechanics by walking the Phils until they were up by nine. They even started to run out of fireworks due to the lengthy high scoring first inning, and after a while, watching the game seemed more like watching a team practice. Thankfully, we went with some great people and had a really fun time talking, eating, and watching the mascots.
One of the mascots was "Recycling Man." No kidding. The guy was dressed all in blue, wore a blue wig, had a blue face, and ran around the stadium collecting plastic bottles from the spectators. Recycling Man has now become a favorite subject in Harrison's drawings, and I'm so glad he has picked a superhero who is dedicated to saving the world one recyclable at a time.
The next night was Friday. I was really exhausted, so I hadn't even contemplated dinner. I turned on the water in the kitchen and as the water flowed down one drain of our double sink, the water level in the other sink began to rise. Matt came home to find me, red faced, in my "plumbing outfit" (read: one of Matt's old white undershirts and maternity jeans) with a plunger in my hands.
Now it's Sunday. My brother-in-law, Jim, and my sister-in-law, Maureen, came over to help most of Saturday afternoon/night and Matt is still snaking and wet-vaccing to unclog a drain that even the Blob wouldn't be able to navigate through.
Other than the plumbing situation, we had a terrific weekend. As Matt became acquainted with our house's water drainage system, Harrison and I worked on organizing his room and his playroom for when the baby comes. I wanted Harrison to have his own space and to become accustomed to maintaining his space and his things, so we took the time to arrange furniture and toys to his liking. It was awesome to see Harrison decide where things should go and categorize his belongings, and I think it was a special time for him to establish some sense of security during this time of big changes.
I would blog about the church picnic we went to today and the other fun times we had this weekend, but the activity in the kitchen has quieted down, so I should go check on my husband. Good night readers!
It was my first game (that I can recall) at Reading's First Energy Stadium. The Reading Phils have a slew of mascots, an unbelievably clean stadium, fireworks after each run, film clips from Napoleon Dynamite and countless other film references to celebrate little victories.
The first inning was about an hour long. The top half was a quick "1,2,3" and then the pitcher for the rival team decided to work on his pitching mechanics by walking the Phils until they were up by nine. They even started to run out of fireworks due to the lengthy high scoring first inning, and after a while, watching the game seemed more like watching a team practice. Thankfully, we went with some great people and had a really fun time talking, eating, and watching the mascots.
One of the mascots was "Recycling Man." No kidding. The guy was dressed all in blue, wore a blue wig, had a blue face, and ran around the stadium collecting plastic bottles from the spectators. Recycling Man has now become a favorite subject in Harrison's drawings, and I'm so glad he has picked a superhero who is dedicated to saving the world one recyclable at a time.
The next night was Friday. I was really exhausted, so I hadn't even contemplated dinner. I turned on the water in the kitchen and as the water flowed down one drain of our double sink, the water level in the other sink began to rise. Matt came home to find me, red faced, in my "plumbing outfit" (read: one of Matt's old white undershirts and maternity jeans) with a plunger in my hands.
Now it's Sunday. My brother-in-law, Jim, and my sister-in-law, Maureen, came over to help most of Saturday afternoon/night and Matt is still snaking and wet-vaccing to unclog a drain that even the Blob wouldn't be able to navigate through.
Other than the plumbing situation, we had a terrific weekend. As Matt became acquainted with our house's water drainage system, Harrison and I worked on organizing his room and his playroom for when the baby comes. I wanted Harrison to have his own space and to become accustomed to maintaining his space and his things, so we took the time to arrange furniture and toys to his liking. It was awesome to see Harrison decide where things should go and categorize his belongings, and I think it was a special time for him to establish some sense of security during this time of big changes.
I would blog about the church picnic we went to today and the other fun times we had this weekend, but the activity in the kitchen has quieted down, so I should go check on my husband. Good night readers!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Heavenly morning (by MJC)
This morning went so well it was heavenly. I woke up early and made croissants for hosting my men's group. I have always said that croissants are a heavenly pastry-- they are like buttery clouds of dough with a golden brown crispiness that melts in your mouth as the air within the pastry breathes across your lips. Ahh, how delicious the start of the day was.
It continued with a great Bible study with the guys and good conversation. After they left, I did something different. I took some time to go back upstairs and sit in bed with Katy as she continued to sleep. I rested my head on her belly and felt the baby swimming and kicking around. It was the most peaceful 5 minutes in a long time.
Then I decided to leave for work. But as I walked towards the stairs, I heard Harrison talking. "This is a shirt," he said to himself. It was a moment that I had a decision. Go on to work and ignore what could be a very adorable scene, or open the door to see what he was up to. I opened the door. He looked up at me and smiled. "This shirt is mine," he said to me, holding up a hand-me-down polo shirt which looked like a 3T version of a shirt my dad had worn back in the mid-80s. And so started a great conversation and fun time with Harrison.
I finally asked if he wanted to go potty before I changed his pull-up and his clothes. "No," he said firmly.
"Do you have to go potty?" I asked, knowing that he would answer no, but still hoping his answer would be different. He refused and yelled as I picked him up and brought him to the bathroom. His yelling and screaming was nearly playful, but at the same time he was refusing and he seemed scared. I said the first thing that came to mind, "Don't worry, the toilet is your friend."
As I stood him in front of the porcelain, he looked at me with a wrinkled brow. "Toilet is NOT my friend!" He insisted.
However, as I got him ready to go, my not-so-talented ventriloquist act broke out with a muffled and high-pitched squeal. I lifted and closed the toilet seat. "Hi, Harrison! How are you!" Harrison laughed then climbed onto the brim. "I'm thirsty," the toilet continued. So Harrison soon started to quench the thirst of his friend and also tried hard to push to feed his friend's hunger (but to no avail). We waited and pushed while reading stories and poems.
"I can't do it! I can't make the toilet not hungry!" he exclaimed after pushing real hard.
"That's okay, Harrison. You did very well. You gave your toilet a drink, and you can feed him later when you get the urge. Just let mommy know when that urge comes, okay?" He nodded, gave me a hug, then flushed. "Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhhhh....Thank you, Harrison," the toilet shrieked as Harrison laughed.
I was so proud of him for that. That he finally warmed up to going potty first thing in the morning, which has been one of the hardest times, yet most crucial time, so they say. But he gave me more hope that he is getting there in his time, in his own way. And he has a friend that he needs to make sure never goes hungry.
It continued with a great Bible study with the guys and good conversation. After they left, I did something different. I took some time to go back upstairs and sit in bed with Katy as she continued to sleep. I rested my head on her belly and felt the baby swimming and kicking around. It was the most peaceful 5 minutes in a long time.
Then I decided to leave for work. But as I walked towards the stairs, I heard Harrison talking. "This is a shirt," he said to himself. It was a moment that I had a decision. Go on to work and ignore what could be a very adorable scene, or open the door to see what he was up to. I opened the door. He looked up at me and smiled. "This shirt is mine," he said to me, holding up a hand-me-down polo shirt which looked like a 3T version of a shirt my dad had worn back in the mid-80s. And so started a great conversation and fun time with Harrison.
I finally asked if he wanted to go potty before I changed his pull-up and his clothes. "No," he said firmly.
"Do you have to go potty?" I asked, knowing that he would answer no, but still hoping his answer would be different. He refused and yelled as I picked him up and brought him to the bathroom. His yelling and screaming was nearly playful, but at the same time he was refusing and he seemed scared. I said the first thing that came to mind, "Don't worry, the toilet is your friend."
As I stood him in front of the porcelain, he looked at me with a wrinkled brow. "Toilet is NOT my friend!" He insisted.
However, as I got him ready to go, my not-so-talented ventriloquist act broke out with a muffled and high-pitched squeal. I lifted and closed the toilet seat. "Hi, Harrison! How are you!" Harrison laughed then climbed onto the brim. "I'm thirsty," the toilet continued. So Harrison soon started to quench the thirst of his friend and also tried hard to push to feed his friend's hunger (but to no avail). We waited and pushed while reading stories and poems.
"I can't do it! I can't make the toilet not hungry!" he exclaimed after pushing real hard.
"That's okay, Harrison. You did very well. You gave your toilet a drink, and you can feed him later when you get the urge. Just let mommy know when that urge comes, okay?" He nodded, gave me a hug, then flushed. "Gulp! Gulp! Ahhhhhh....Thank you, Harrison," the toilet shrieked as Harrison laughed.
I was so proud of him for that. That he finally warmed up to going potty first thing in the morning, which has been one of the hardest times, yet most crucial time, so they say. But he gave me more hope that he is getting there in his time, in his own way. And he has a friend that he needs to make sure never goes hungry.
One Little Victory Goes a Long Way
Since Matt has had a pretty rough day, I REALLY didn't want him to come home to a clogged sink! Thanks to the internet and my brother-in-law (Thanks Jim!!) I was able to fix everything before Matt arrived home! Hooray! And, now I know how to fix a garbage disposal.
Thanks God for minor victories!
Thanks God for minor victories!
Can I pull my hair out...please?
I clogged the kitchen sink, and the garbage disposal, trying to make a nice home-cooked meal from scratch. Matt's still at work and I'm watching videos on how to unclog a garbage disposal on youtube.com.
On top of that, Matt and I just had a brief conversation on how we are going to make ends meet if I stay at home. I'm trying to believe in God's provision, but it's difficult, and now my meatloaf is burning...
AH! Okay. It didn't burn. But the timer was going off and I'm now in melodramatic mode. I kinda want to cry; thankfully, I have Harrison the Entertainer around. He's amazing. Okay, dinner time.
On top of that, Matt and I just had a brief conversation on how we are going to make ends meet if I stay at home. I'm trying to believe in God's provision, but it's difficult, and now my meatloaf is burning...
AH! Okay. It didn't burn. But the timer was going off and I'm now in melodramatic mode. I kinda want to cry; thankfully, I have Harrison the Entertainer around. He's amazing. Okay, dinner time.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Re-Birthing Class (by MJC)
Okay, so it wasn't a re-birthing class. It was a child birth refresher course. It happened tonight at 7pm, even though I had totally forgot about it until 5:35pm when Katy called me at work and asked, "Do you know what the date is?"
"Yeah it is July 8th"
"Do you remember what we were supposed to do tonight?"
"Uh..." The date rattled around in my brain until finally something clicked. "Oh crap. The refresher course!"
Needless to say the next hour and a half were very crazy as I tied up the loose ends of a very very hectic day to try to get home quickly enough to make it to the class on time. Tardiness is not an option for me. I'd rather not show than to be 10-30 minutes late. We also needed to find someone to watch Harrison during the class, until 9:30pm. So my mom was the most available, but I knew she had just watched my nieces for a full 11 hours and was exhausted. We tried all other options but settled on dear old Grandma. Harrison does love it at her house. My mom is a true God send at those critical times. Thanks, mom.
I have to say that although this was a refresher course, I felt like we are less prepared now than the first time around. Katy and I still want a natural childbirth, but with the C-section the first time it is as if all the cards are against us, and as if we didn't experience a true birth the first time. But in reality, we experienced a great deal with Harrison's birth. We found that we cannot control what will happen. We can hope, pray, plan, and prepare for the best, but also be ready for the worst. With such a tumultuous first labor experience, we are thinking that God might shine brighter on us this time around.
I definitely found that the weight of what we are embarking on-- being parents to two kids at the same time-- is starting to sink in. It is going to require so much more energy, so much more sacrifice, so much more teamwork and creativity, that we have to be ready for it. I should be ready now! And we have to make sure Harrison is ready for this. Yikes. The little guy's world is about to change!
We came back to pick up Harrison and he was so well behaved that he seemed to glow with perfection, as if he knew that all night I was thinking "I don't think this kid can handle it." I think his subdued, tired, and loving demeanor was a way of him responding to my worries with, "I will be just fine, Daddy. I'm a big boy."
It is hard to fathom how my little girl is going to come into this world. It is hard to envision how the labor will play out and if everything will go as planned. It is impossible to know what Libby's personality will be like or how Harrison will react to it all. It is even hard to prepare fully for such a momentous change in our family. But I'm trying to rely on the One that always remains constant. The One that will give us all we need. The One that helps us when we feel helpless. The One that loves us when it feels like there is no love left to give. The One that keeps things all together. The One that will make my family blessed-- maybe not as I hope or plan it to be-- but as it is meant to be. I hope to trust in that, and to trust in Him.
"Yeah it is July 8th"
"Do you remember what we were supposed to do tonight?"
"Uh..." The date rattled around in my brain until finally something clicked. "Oh crap. The refresher course!"
Needless to say the next hour and a half were very crazy as I tied up the loose ends of a very very hectic day to try to get home quickly enough to make it to the class on time. Tardiness is not an option for me. I'd rather not show than to be 10-30 minutes late. We also needed to find someone to watch Harrison during the class, until 9:30pm. So my mom was the most available, but I knew she had just watched my nieces for a full 11 hours and was exhausted. We tried all other options but settled on dear old Grandma. Harrison does love it at her house. My mom is a true God send at those critical times. Thanks, mom.
I have to say that although this was a refresher course, I felt like we are less prepared now than the first time around. Katy and I still want a natural childbirth, but with the C-section the first time it is as if all the cards are against us, and as if we didn't experience a true birth the first time. But in reality, we experienced a great deal with Harrison's birth. We found that we cannot control what will happen. We can hope, pray, plan, and prepare for the best, but also be ready for the worst. With such a tumultuous first labor experience, we are thinking that God might shine brighter on us this time around.
I definitely found that the weight of what we are embarking on-- being parents to two kids at the same time-- is starting to sink in. It is going to require so much more energy, so much more sacrifice, so much more teamwork and creativity, that we have to be ready for it. I should be ready now! And we have to make sure Harrison is ready for this. Yikes. The little guy's world is about to change!
We came back to pick up Harrison and he was so well behaved that he seemed to glow with perfection, as if he knew that all night I was thinking "I don't think this kid can handle it." I think his subdued, tired, and loving demeanor was a way of him responding to my worries with, "I will be just fine, Daddy. I'm a big boy."
It is hard to fathom how my little girl is going to come into this world. It is hard to envision how the labor will play out and if everything will go as planned. It is impossible to know what Libby's personality will be like or how Harrison will react to it all. It is even hard to prepare fully for such a momentous change in our family. But I'm trying to rely on the One that always remains constant. The One that will give us all we need. The One that helps us when we feel helpless. The One that loves us when it feels like there is no love left to give. The One that keeps things all together. The One that will make my family blessed-- maybe not as I hope or plan it to be-- but as it is meant to be. I hope to trust in that, and to trust in Him.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Our Little Pee-Wee Soccer Player (by KAC)
We just signed up for Pee-Wee Soccer. I can't wait to see our guy in uniform!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Pregnancy Update (by KAC)
Here's a quick update on Libby!
It was confirmed last Tuesday during an ultrasound that we are definitely having a GIRL!! Hooray! She is approx. 5 lbs 6 oz. and her due date is still around 8.8.08. The fact that Libby is at the average weight mark was excellent news b/c that increases my chances of having a natural delivery instead of a C-section.
Matt's mom and Harrison came with me for the ultrasound. It was Marian's first time seeing an ultrasound, and I was so excited to share that experience with her and Harrison! Libby"waved" to them every time the technician showed her profile. :-)
I'm so eager to meet her! Plus, I'm really over feeling so awkward all the time and feeling like people are watching my belly as if it where a time bomb every time I go out somewhere. I do think, however, that I will miss the feeling of her dancing inside my belly whenever I play my favorite CDs and Harrison talking to my belly and giving Libby kisses.
Elizabeth (middle name) Comber, we are so excited about you!
It was confirmed last Tuesday during an ultrasound that we are definitely having a GIRL!! Hooray! She is approx. 5 lbs 6 oz. and her due date is still around 8.8.08. The fact that Libby is at the average weight mark was excellent news b/c that increases my chances of having a natural delivery instead of a C-section.
Matt's mom and Harrison came with me for the ultrasound. It was Marian's first time seeing an ultrasound, and I was so excited to share that experience with her and Harrison! Libby"waved" to them every time the technician showed her profile. :-)
I'm so eager to meet her! Plus, I'm really over feeling so awkward all the time and feeling like people are watching my belly as if it where a time bomb every time I go out somewhere. I do think, however, that I will miss the feeling of her dancing inside my belly whenever I play my favorite CDs and Harrison talking to my belly and giving Libby kisses.
Elizabeth (middle name) Comber, we are so excited about you!
Birthday Withdraw (by KAC)
As Matt and I mentioned before, Harrison just turned three a few days ago.
He had a blast! We celebrated three times over the span of two days. We started his birthday off by baking cupcakes together. Harrison poured the ingredients into the bowl and even broke an egg! We had so much fun baking together, and decorating the cupcakes turned into a messy but great event.
Harrison's first party was with his friends from church and his cousins Isabel and Adia. We went to Markie's Mini-Golf in Phoenixville and they were so accommodating and friendly while we treated Harrison and his friends to eleven holes of miniature golf and cupcakes. If you're thinking that eleven holes is off by seven, you're right! Our party of five toddlers and a five-year-old played all over the course (thankfully, the course was pretty empty) and ran from the 7th hole over the "creek" to the 14th hole and resumed playing. Over all, the somewhat controlled chaos lasted for about half an hour and then it was time for cupcakes and presents.
Immediately following our golf outing, Harrison's Aunt Reen and Uncle Jim hosted a birthday party for Harrison and his grandma, who shares Harrison's birth date, at their house in Chester Springs. The whole Comber clan was there to celebrate. This, of course, meant lots of great presents. Do you see where I'm going with this?
Harrison's third party was the next night, July 4th, and we had a birthday dinner with my parents, my sister Wynn, and her boyfriend Brian. After dinner, Harrison opened presents (one of the presents was the Wii Sport, the latest object of affection for both my guys) and we had birthday cake and watched the movie Cars until it was time to go.
Now, the day after. Harrison experienced major birthday withdrawal. Harrison woke up wanting birthday cake. He looked around at all his new presents and asked if we were going to give him any more. When the answer was, "No, Buddy the birthday is over." Harrison proceeded to gather as many presents as he could--hot wheels, bubbles, a kite, etc. and disappeared into the study. When I found Harrison, he had wrapped all the small toys with tissue paper and placed them into a gift bag so that he could open more presents later. Now, thankfully, the withdraw has receded and Harrison is happy playing and enjoying the gifts from his third birthday.
Thanks to everyone who made Harrison's big day so special!
Love,
Katy
Bio 101 (by KAC)
While my Yankee husband makes me grits for breakfast (amazingly good grits if you can believe it) and my child plays with his new hot wheels, I am going to relay the topic of conversation that occurred this morning as the Comber family discussed the basic difference between boys and girls.
This morning started with a knock on our bedroom door. Every morning begins this way as Harrison lets us know that he is awake and ready to start the day. Unfortunately for Harrison his parents weren't as willing to start the morning.
In my current pregnant state, between my bladder waking me up in the middle of the night and racing thoughts keeping me awake, it was difficult for me to get a full night's sleep last night, and with the recent addition of the family Wii Matt was in the same sleep deprived state this morning. Since pregnancy trumps late night golfing, Matt got up, stumbled to the door, and let in a burst of energy we call Harrison.
Harrison ran to the crib to inspect the latest gifts given to his soon-to-arrive little sister. One by one we pulled out onesies and burp cloths from a large gift bag until we had formed a small mountain on the bed. Thanks to my sister-in-law Holly and her daughter Evelyn, we counted enough clothes to last us the first six months of Libby's life! It was exciting to see the tiny outfits and dresses. Pinks and yellows and greens. Ruffles and terry cloth. Soft pajamas with ducks and giraffes and alligators. It made me feel one step closer to being prepared for this little girl.
Among the gifts for Libby, Holly had also included a book for me about the postpartum stage of childbirth. Entitled, After the Baby's Birth... A Woman's Way to Wellness: A Complete Guide for Postpartum Women, the book gave me another boost of confidence as to my level of preparation. Harrison and I flipped through the pages and looked at all the newborn babes, and when we came across a picture of a boy, Harrison pointed and said, "Adia."
The boy did bare a slight resemblance to Harrison's female cousin, but we decided to correct him. "No, Harrison, that's a boy."
"That's a boy?"
"Yes, see he has a penis."
"Boys have penis?"
"Yes."
"Does Isabel have a penis?"
"No, girls don't have penises."
"What do they have?" Harrison took in this new information, squinting his eyes as he pondered, and then asked sympathetically, "They just have a hole?" Harrison gestured to his bottom. I thought, okay, this is the beginning of a series of talks. Lets keep this one simple.
"Girls have a vagina."
"A ge-aye-na?" Then he laughed as if it was the silliest word he'd ever heard.
"Vagina. Yes. That's one thing that makes boys and girls different from one another."
"Oh." Harrison nodded, pensive at first, and then he asked his favorite question, "Why?"
"That's how God made us." There. A simple, yet very complex statement.
"Okay." Pause. "I'm hungry." Lesson over.
Now I'm blogging and waiting to eat grits with my two favorite guys, and wondering about future conversations. I pray that future conversations about men and women will allow Harrison to grow up as a Man who understands the gift of gender differences, the gift of marriage and sex, the gift of the women God will put in Harrison's life. I pray for Harrison's future relationships and companions, influences and mentors, and for his future wife. That they love and respect each other as equals and partners. That celebrate their differences. That they treat each other as gifts from God and never take one another for granted. That is my prayer and the grits are ready.
This morning started with a knock on our bedroom door. Every morning begins this way as Harrison lets us know that he is awake and ready to start the day. Unfortunately for Harrison his parents weren't as willing to start the morning.
In my current pregnant state, between my bladder waking me up in the middle of the night and racing thoughts keeping me awake, it was difficult for me to get a full night's sleep last night, and with the recent addition of the family Wii Matt was in the same sleep deprived state this morning. Since pregnancy trumps late night golfing, Matt got up, stumbled to the door, and let in a burst of energy we call Harrison.
Harrison ran to the crib to inspect the latest gifts given to his soon-to-arrive little sister. One by one we pulled out onesies and burp cloths from a large gift bag until we had formed a small mountain on the bed. Thanks to my sister-in-law Holly and her daughter Evelyn, we counted enough clothes to last us the first six months of Libby's life! It was exciting to see the tiny outfits and dresses. Pinks and yellows and greens. Ruffles and terry cloth. Soft pajamas with ducks and giraffes and alligators. It made me feel one step closer to being prepared for this little girl.
Among the gifts for Libby, Holly had also included a book for me about the postpartum stage of childbirth. Entitled, After the Baby's Birth... A Woman's Way to Wellness: A Complete Guide for Postpartum Women, the book gave me another boost of confidence as to my level of preparation. Harrison and I flipped through the pages and looked at all the newborn babes, and when we came across a picture of a boy, Harrison pointed and said, "Adia."
The boy did bare a slight resemblance to Harrison's female cousin, but we decided to correct him. "No, Harrison, that's a boy."
"That's a boy?"
"Yes, see he has a penis."
"Boys have penis?"
"Yes."
"Does Isabel have a penis?"
"No, girls don't have penises."
"What do they have?" Harrison took in this new information, squinting his eyes as he pondered, and then asked sympathetically, "They just have a hole?" Harrison gestured to his bottom. I thought, okay, this is the beginning of a series of talks. Lets keep this one simple.
"Girls have a vagina."
"A ge-aye-na?" Then he laughed as if it was the silliest word he'd ever heard.
"Vagina. Yes. That's one thing that makes boys and girls different from one another."
"Oh." Harrison nodded, pensive at first, and then he asked his favorite question, "Why?"
"That's how God made us." There. A simple, yet very complex statement.
"Okay." Pause. "I'm hungry." Lesson over.
Now I'm blogging and waiting to eat grits with my two favorite guys, and wondering about future conversations. I pray that future conversations about men and women will allow Harrison to grow up as a Man who understands the gift of gender differences, the gift of marriage and sex, the gift of the women God will put in Harrison's life. I pray for Harrison's future relationships and companions, influences and mentors, and for his future wife. That they love and respect each other as equals and partners. That celebrate their differences. That they treat each other as gifts from God and never take one another for granted. That is my prayer and the grits are ready.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Three Years a Father (by MJC)
It was almost 3 years and 9 months ago when I received a call from my wife with an urgent message to return home from watching the football game. If the Eagles weren't losing by five touchdowns at the time, I might have been more hesitant. But I knew it must be something critical. I could hear it in her voice.
As I rushed into the apartment, Katy stood there, still. She stared at me until I stopped and looked into her eyes. "You are going to be a daddy," she said with a quivering voice. She wrapped her arms around me and it took me a moment to embrace her as well. Just the same, it took me some time to embrace the fact that I was to be a father at the young age of 25.
Now, at the age of 28, I have found that these three years have aged me considerably. I had been married only four months before we found out we were expecting, and sure enough our life changed dramatically and seems to have been in constant flux since. There have been times of frustration and times of amazing joy. And even those hilarious moments and those anxious moments seem to meld into the good times.
Oh- and now we are expecting again-- in only 5 weeks.
Harrison is a riot. I hope to remember all the crazy moments and one-liners Katy and I have laughed about for hours. There are so many ways he makes me proud with his love for sports-- especially baseball. The way he can list at least 4 different Phillies. The way he knows that his baseball glove goes on his left hand (but still asks to be sure). There is the way he loves to eat. The way he loves to sing and dance. The way he learned the words to "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" on the way home from the beach. The way he runs, with his head thrust forward and his arms pumping at two times the speed of his legs. The way he can pitch a hittable wiffle ball, and hit a well-thrown pitch. He makes me proud that I once counted that he got a three on a mini golf hole. He always skips 7 when he counts to 10. Whenever he sees the letter "H" he says, "look at my name!" The way, although he tests my patience with his lack of listening, he will always give me a hug and a kiss when I ask for one. The way he whispers "Hello Wibby" to Katy's belly. The way he laughs contagiously. The way he says "Gran-ma" and feels just as at home as I do at her house. The way, after a long day at work or a long business trip he will yell, "Daddy!" and come running to me and clings to my leg.
And so, after three years of all the ways I have fallen in love with this kid, there is yet another one coming to my world, and will win my heart for countless different reasons. I look forward to the day I see her and begin to list out those ways.
As I rushed into the apartment, Katy stood there, still. She stared at me until I stopped and looked into her eyes. "You are going to be a daddy," she said with a quivering voice. She wrapped her arms around me and it took me a moment to embrace her as well. Just the same, it took me some time to embrace the fact that I was to be a father at the young age of 25.
Now, at the age of 28, I have found that these three years have aged me considerably. I had been married only four months before we found out we were expecting, and sure enough our life changed dramatically and seems to have been in constant flux since. There have been times of frustration and times of amazing joy. And even those hilarious moments and those anxious moments seem to meld into the good times.
Oh- and now we are expecting again-- in only 5 weeks.
Harrison is a riot. I hope to remember all the crazy moments and one-liners Katy and I have laughed about for hours. There are so many ways he makes me proud with his love for sports-- especially baseball. The way he can list at least 4 different Phillies. The way he knows that his baseball glove goes on his left hand (but still asks to be sure). There is the way he loves to eat. The way he loves to sing and dance. The way he learned the words to "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" on the way home from the beach. The way he runs, with his head thrust forward and his arms pumping at two times the speed of his legs. The way he can pitch a hittable wiffle ball, and hit a well-thrown pitch. He makes me proud that I once counted that he got a three on a mini golf hole. He always skips 7 when he counts to 10. Whenever he sees the letter "H" he says, "look at my name!" The way, although he tests my patience with his lack of listening, he will always give me a hug and a kiss when I ask for one. The way he whispers "Hello Wibby" to Katy's belly. The way he laughs contagiously. The way he says "Gran-ma" and feels just as at home as I do at her house. The way, after a long day at work or a long business trip he will yell, "Daddy!" and come running to me and clings to my leg.
And so, after three years of all the ways I have fallen in love with this kid, there is yet another one coming to my world, and will win my heart for countless different reasons. I look forward to the day I see her and begin to list out those ways.
A Fish Named Puppy (by KAC)
"I have a story" he says. His big hazel eyes tell me to pay attention. This is important.
"Okay, Kiddo let's hear it."
"I'm not Kiddo. I'm Harrison Comber." I start to smile, but he's serious, so I restrain.
"Okay, Harrison Comber. Tell me your story."
"One day...one day...uh. One day I was a boy. I was a boy and I had a dog and went to the park. There were giants playing baseball against fireworks and the fireworks turned into cows and the cows turned into a cake."
"What kind of cake?"
"A cow cake!" Of course. Silly question.
We were sitting at the park watching a man walk his black lab. It was a beautiful day for a picnic and fun in the sun. Harrison had just discovered the sand volleyball court and was filling a Silo cup with sand in attempts to build a sandcastle sans water and wasn't having much luck when the man and his dog walked by. The dog was just old enough not to be a puppy-- still playful but trained to stay by his master's side. Harrison yearned for a dog. His eyes and his beautifully creative story made that very obvious.
In case the story's intent was lost on his poor mother, Harrison then said, "Mommy, I have a question."
"Okay."
"How bout we get a dog?" His question was more an exclamation and his eyes lit up with possibility.
Unfortunately, due to timing and finances, a dog was out of the question. I had to think fast.
"What if we get a fish, and we name the fish puppy?"
Harrison thought over his mother's proposal. His brows furrowed and his bottom lip shot out a bit as he concentrated. Finally, he laughed loudly and infectiously.
"Okay!"
We threw away the remains of our picnic, emptied the volleyball court sand out of our shoes and headed to the pet store. An hour later, after thorough study of each Beta fish, Harrison selected the pet we fondly know as "Puppy."
This is one of many family stories we hope to document and share with friends and family. I only wish I had started this blog sooner so that we could have documented the beginning of Harrison's life up to this point. Now our son is three years and two days old and is expecting to be a big brother in August. Hopefully I will be more diligent in chronicling Harrison and Libby's adventures in the future. :-)
"Okay, Kiddo let's hear it."
"I'm not Kiddo. I'm Harrison Comber." I start to smile, but he's serious, so I restrain.
"Okay, Harrison Comber. Tell me your story."
"One day...one day...uh. One day I was a boy. I was a boy and I had a dog and went to the park. There were giants playing baseball against fireworks and the fireworks turned into cows and the cows turned into a cake."
"What kind of cake?"
"A cow cake!" Of course. Silly question.
We were sitting at the park watching a man walk his black lab. It was a beautiful day for a picnic and fun in the sun. Harrison had just discovered the sand volleyball court and was filling a Silo cup with sand in attempts to build a sandcastle sans water and wasn't having much luck when the man and his dog walked by. The dog was just old enough not to be a puppy-- still playful but trained to stay by his master's side. Harrison yearned for a dog. His eyes and his beautifully creative story made that very obvious.
In case the story's intent was lost on his poor mother, Harrison then said, "Mommy, I have a question."
"Okay."
"How bout we get a dog?" His question was more an exclamation and his eyes lit up with possibility.
Unfortunately, due to timing and finances, a dog was out of the question. I had to think fast.
"What if we get a fish, and we name the fish puppy?"
Harrison thought over his mother's proposal. His brows furrowed and his bottom lip shot out a bit as he concentrated. Finally, he laughed loudly and infectiously.
"Okay!"
We threw away the remains of our picnic, emptied the volleyball court sand out of our shoes and headed to the pet store. An hour later, after thorough study of each Beta fish, Harrison selected the pet we fondly know as "Puppy."
This is one of many family stories we hope to document and share with friends and family. I only wish I had started this blog sooner so that we could have documented the beginning of Harrison's life up to this point. Now our son is three years and two days old and is expecting to be a big brother in August. Hopefully I will be more diligent in chronicling Harrison and Libby's adventures in the future. :-)
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