#24 Wine Making becomes Baby Making

Originally, #24 on My Chesapeake List was to make my own wine at Carafe.  Guess what?  They went out of business!  So, without changing my list too much, I will just make one substitution.  I want to write about giving birth at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center.

This journey began back in March when I found out I was pregnant.  I was out playing Bunco and remember being extremely tired.  I didn't want to eat dessert, I didn't want to play...I just wanted to sleep!  The next day I took a Dollar Tree pregnancy test and those double pink lines popped up FAST.     I immediately started the search for an OBGYN.  My coworkers recommended Drs. Powers, Linder, and Rector with Total Care for Women.  I had to meet with each one of them before I could pick one to be my doctor.  I chose Dr.  Rector to oversee the last few weeks of my pregnancy, but switched to Dr. Linder towards the end for reasons I will expand on in the next paragraph.

My pregnancy was filled with nausea, heartburn, weight loss, sleep deprivation, and hypertension.  The nausea went away at the end of first trimester.  Heartburn reared its ugly head in 3rd trimester, but I was able to counteract it with TUMS and Zantac.  I did lose 10 pounds at the beginning of the pregnancy and kept it off until the last month when I was put on bed rest.  Also, sleep deprivation was another problem I had from 2nd trimester through the end.  I had to take half a Unisom every night to get my rest.  All of these problems paled in comparison to the problems I had with hypertension.  First, they changed my meds for something that was safe for pregnancy.  I was able to stay on that medication and dosage for most of the pregnancy.  During my 3rd trimester, things got crazy.  I was stressed out about anything and everything (who would cover my classes at school, how would we survive with a newborn, how would this work financially, etc) which caused my blood pressure to rise.  The doctors changed my meds, upped my dosage, and ordered me to do weekly non-stress tests.  It was during this time that I met with Dr. Linder.  I was put on bed rest at 36 weeks and was frustrated that I would have to wait at least another month before having this baby.  Dr.  Linder, unlike Dr. Rector, was comfortable with the idea of inducing me at 39 weeks.  I was so happy that I wouldn't have to waste too much of my maternity leave just sitting around with no baby to show for it.

On Tuesday, November 5, my husband and I went out for our "last supper" as a childless couple.  We had a delicious meal at Texas Roadhouse and then headed to the hospital to start the induction process.  Showing up to the hospital to be induced is a lot like checking into a hotel.  We walked calmly into the hospital with our suitcase and pillows, took the elevator to Labor and Delivery, and checked in at Registration.  Once I got into the room, changed my clothes, and got into bed, the "fun" started.  I got an IV, hooked up to monitors, and was given drugs to thin out my cervix.

The next morning, they started me on Pitocin.  Dr. Powers was on call and he broke my water.  This caused my contractions to intensify, so I was given an epidural.  That was heaven!  I was able to progress from 1 to 4 cm pain free.  However, the baby's heart rate dropped and doctors rushed into the room.  I was turned on my side and put on oxygen.  I could only see my husband's face as he was standing up against a wall looking scared and clueless.  The baby's heart rate did improve, but not enough to satisfy my doctor, so I was sent to the OR for a c- section.  I remember telling my husband that once the baby was born he should go with her to take pictures, be with her during those first few moments, etc.  However, I totally freaked out on the OR table and wouldn't let him leave my side.  The next thing I remember is waking up as the doctors were finishing sewing me up.  I had been put to sleep after the baby was born and (according to my husband) was snoring on the OR table.  Afterwards, I was wheeled into recovery, given pain meds, and was able to hold my daughter for the first time.

Once I was stable, I was moved to my own room on the maternity ward.  This is where things got hectic for me.  On one hand I was elated to be a new mom, receive visitors, and bond with my baby.  On the other hand, my recovery and adjustment to motherhood was not so smooth.  I have never been a patient in a hospital, so I didn't know what to expect.  I was visited by doctors, nurses, consultants, and other staff at all hours of the day and night.  The nurses were awesome in taking care of me and my baby.  However, I just didn't have a moment's peace to calm down.  This didn't help my blood pressure at all.  I was also trying to get the hang of breast feeding.  I tried for about a week before my husband and I decided to exclusively formula feed.  Breast feeding in the hospital as a new mom is a stressful experience.  You want to do it and you feel all this pressure to do it right.  Even with the help of the Lactation Consultants, I couldn't get my baby to latch on my right side nor could I produce much on that side.

We stayed at CRMC from Tuesday night thru Saturday late afternoon.  I was never so happy to bust out of a place in all my life.  However, I was also scared to do so.  I was leaving 24/7 care.  I was going to be on my own to figure out this whole painting thing.

It's been two weeks since my baby was born and things have calmed down.  I go to my doctor tomorrow to check my blood pressure (which I believe has improved since I have been home) and talk about things.  I'm more at ease about taking care of my daughter.  I believe that the doctors and staff at the hospital had a huge role in making sure I started my new life as a mother off on the right foot.

My review/suggestions:
1.  The hospital food is delicious!  Enjoy the room service too.
2.  Don't be afraid to ask questions or be your own advocate.  They will work with you.
3.  Be courteous and respectful to the staff.  They work long hours in taking care of you and your baby.  A little kindness goes a long way.

#23 Tea at With Flair Tearoom

Wow!  7 months since my last post! Being pregnant took a lot out of me (more about that in a separate post), so I wasn't able to focus on my blog as much as I wanted.  When I decided to review my list, I noticed that I had actually done an activity without realizing it!  On October 19, I had my baby shower at the With Flair Tearoom.  My mother and coworker were the hostesses and they did an amazing job.  Each guest had chicken salad on a croissant, with fruit, and sweet bread.  Our waitress gave us a tea menu we could order from.  My friend and I split a pot of peppermint tea (side note: I used to not like tea, but have grown to like hot tea during my pregnancy) with lunch.  For dessert, the owners made us a delicious cake!  All of my guests were in the large front room at With Flair which gave us plenty of room to socialize and move around.  After lunch and some games, I opened my presents.  We were able to end the shower in 2 hours time, right when they close at 2pm.

My review/suggestions:
1.  The tearoom is a great place for small to medium size gatherings
2.  The owners are great to work with.  They will make sure your event is everything you want.

#17 and #49: Flea Market and Chesapeake History Book

When I created this blog, I thought it would be a good way to bring some excitement to my life.  Well, it turns out I have no problem making things exciting and hectic around here.  I found out last month that I'm pregnant and due in November!  Between the morning sickness and lack of energy, I've been trying to take things slow.  However, I'm almost out of my 1st trimester and spring is here.  Things are definitely picking up and I'm excited to tackle My List!

First, I finally finished the Chesapeake history book by Raymond Harper.  Originally I had ordered it back in December through Amazon, but they were unable to deliver it.  I really wanted my own hardback copy so I could get him to sign it, but I just downloaded it on my iPad instead.  The book is 288 pages, broken into 11 chapters, and covers the years of 1775-2002.  I really liked how Harper examined the different sections of Chesapeake and how they came to be.  However, I didn't like how the book focused so much attention on Berkley and South Norfolk.  While I know that's where Chesapeake's roots are, I feel like other sections, like Western Branch, were only briefly mentioned.  It was difficult to follow along with all the people and places in South Norfolk that Harper mentioned.  I've only driven through the area a few times and there's so much that has changed over the last 50 years.  Reading the book, I appreciated how Harper tries to take his reader back in time to a golden age of sorts.  I think one thing the City of Chesapeake or South Norfolk Civic League could do is develop a walking tour (or maybe even a trolley bus tour) of the area--pointing out places and sites from Chesapeake's history.  I would totally sign up for that kind of thing!  

Speaking of South Norfolk, last weekend my husband and I went to the Flea Market.  Yes, it's on my list, but he's the one who really wanted to go!  We used a $5 gift certificate I earned from my Recycling Perks program and drove over to 2425 Bainbridge Blvd.  I honestly didn't know what to expect when I got there because I've never been to a flea market.  I would compare it to an indoor garage sale with a few (very) small business owners.  A lot of the stuff looked like it had been bought at a garage sale and was trying to be resold.  We found 2 chicken cookie jars on sale for $5 each.  With the coupon, we were able to get both for just $5.  We gave the jars to my mother-in-law who has a rooster/chicken motif in her kitchen.  

Lastly, this pregnancy has made me realize I will have to change some things on my list.  For example, I won't be able to go to the Wine Festival this year and singing in the community choir will also be difficult.  I will need to edit the list as I get closer to my due date.  Stay tuned for updates!

#16: Play Putt-Putt at Lunar Mini Golf

Last Sunday, February 24, my husband and I went on an afternoon date.  We had lunch at Jalapeno's in Western Branch (best Mexican food in the area!) and then walked around Chesapeake Square Mall.  It had been awhile since I had been to this mall, and I was interested to see what had changed.  I totally forgot that Lunar Mini Golf was in the mall until I walked by it.  My husband was less than thrilled to go in, but after I reminded him it was on My List and we just had a discussion about doing more things on the list, he went in with me.  

Now, it may seem odd that a mini golf place is inside a mall.  I've always played mini golf  outside.  Does anyone remember Putt Putt?  We had one in Newport News where I grew up and I miss it.  I have been to an indoor, black-lit mini golf place at the oceanfront, but just considered it a tourist trap since it was in Virginia Beach.  Well, Lunar Mini Golf is located at the JcPenney/Sears end of Chesapeake Square Mall and seems to be one of the biggest attractions there. 

Apparently mid-Sunday afternoon is a busy time for them.  After paying and receiving our putters and balls, we started our game.  Everything is black-lit, so while the room is dark, there's enough light to see each of the 18 holes.  The course moves from easy to challenging holes.  I started the game ahead of my husband, but he caught up with me by the end.  Here are pictures of our score cards.  We're no Tiger Woods.

We could have played 2 more rounds, but all the little kids running around and cutting in line were too much to handle.  On the way out the door, I picked up this flyer of information:

 

Here's my review and suggestions:
Lunar Mini Golf at Chesapeake Square Mall is fun for adults and kids.  Use your own common sense when deciding whether you want to take your younger children.  I recommend playing all 3 rounds to maximize your fun.  However, I would pick a less crowded time, so you're not bumping into people and vice versa.  If you've been shopping at the mall and then decide to play a round of golf, put your bags in your locked car.  I had my purse with me, and after a few holes, I put it on a chair in their "party zone."  I was uneasy about it, but nothing happened.  Lastly, just focus on playing and having fun, not your score.  It's just a game!

For more information, please check out their website.

#48 Painting Pottery and a Progress Report

I love it when my list of things to do coincides with what my friends are doing! My friend Melissa, who at the time didn't know anything about my blog, organized a girls night out to paint pottery.  She took care of setting up the date and time and reserving the room, so all we had to do was show up, paint our pieces, and pay for it.  Honestly, the less I have to think when doing these things, the better!  

On January 19th, I met up with Melissa and her friends at Glazenfyre on Kempsville Road.  Now, I must confess that I have painted pottery before and I've even been to Glazenfyre as well.  In the past,  I've always chosen easy, small, and inexpensive pieces, so I decided to change things up this time.  I selected a large chip bowl and a small wine cork stopper (note: the stopper can also be used as a drawer pull).  

Picking my paint colors was the hardest thing for me because I'm such a perfectionist.  I didn't know what to pick, I wasn't sure how it was going to look, and I was apprehensive about how it would turn out.  All these thoughts were running through my mind until I just picked something.  For the chip bowl, I went with 2 colors to keep it simple.  I also used the same colors for the wine cork and just had to pick out a green color for the grapevine leaves.  

After several coats of the purple paint and  taking my time on the small wine cork, I finished with this:

I paid for my pieces and left them at the store to be fired and glazed.  About a week later, I was able to pick up my pieces.  I was shocked to see the results! My chip bowl is awesome!  

I didn't take an after pic of the wine cork because it's very close to how it looks in the before picture, just glazed.  

My review: Glazenfyre is a great place to paint pottery.  The staff are helpful, friendly, and accommodating. If you're looking for a girls' night out, family fun time, or some individual quiet time, you'll find it here.  For more information, you can visit their website.  Lastly, I'm grateful to my friend Melissa, who organized the whole event.  Here's a pic of the ladies.  I'm on the far right :)

Progress Report:
I'm currently reading my Chesapeake history book by Raymond Harper.  It's been a slow read, but there's a lot of good information in there.  I'm looking forward to sharing my review soon.

I haven't decided what I should tackle next.  My husband and I are in the middle of drywalling our family room, so maybe I should take a home improvement/decor class at Home Depot or Lowes? 

Update: Yes, I'm actually doing stuff!

Happy New Year (19 days later)!  Back in December I ordered a Chesapeake history book from Amazon.  I waited and waited for it to be delivered, and finally got an email from Amazon saying that they didn't have any in stock.  I was bummed about that because my plan was to have the author, Raymond Harper, autograph it.  Oh well, maybe I can at least get a picture taken with him this year (I found out he's on the planning committee for Chesapeake's 50th anniversary, so meeting up with him shouldn't be that difficult).  In the meantime, I've downloaded his book to my iPad, so I can get started reading it and tackling "the list" :)

Later tonight, I'm meeting up with a few ladies to paint pottery!  My friend Melissa organized the event and invited me.  I totally took her up on the invitation because I'm all about doing things as they come along.  Also, I didn't have to do all the leg work like calling the store, setting up a date/time to go in, etc.  Now, to be honest, I have painted pottery before, but I've only done small pieces (i.e. vases and coasters) in the past.  Tonight, I plan on doing a bigger piece.  Check back later for a post! 

#29: Christmas Wagon Ride

On Friday, December 28, my husband and I went to Acquibob Farm in Chesapeake for a Christmas wagon ride.  It's located off Tyre Neck Road in Western Branch.  We made the mistake of turning onto Saunders Lane and stopping at the first house.  We were warmly greeted and even got half-way inside their house before we realized that we had totally crashed some one's retirement party!  After wishing them "congratulations," we quietly made our exit and continued down the long dirt and gravel road to the farm. The road was lined with Christmas lights and I knew we had reached the right spot when I saw the stables.

 When we got to the large barn, we were greeted by Judy and Curtis who informed us that it would take about 10 minutes to hitch up the horses.  They wanted to see if we actually came (because they've had no-shows) before they got the horses all ready.  We waited in the large barn and this is my husband's "I-can't-believe-you-dragged-me-out-here" face. 

 

At first, he wasn't as excited as I was to go on this adventure.   Truth be told, I think he was nervous about the horses.  You see, my Jersey boy husband has never touched a horse before.  He had no idea what to expect with this "wagon ride."  I didn't either, but that's part of the fun! (And yes, he's wearing a Virginia Tech hat with a University of Virginia hoodie). 

 While we waited in the barn, I saw this sign.  I didn't know they were doing a coat drive too.  If I had, I would have brought some extra coats to donate. 

This is the barn where we waited for the horses.  You can see the wagon in the middle of the picture.  Yes, I should have zoomed in.  I can only hope that my photography skills will improve the more I write this blog. 

Judy and Curtis got the horses hitched up and we were just amazed at the size of the horses.  Simba and Prince are Belgian horses and weigh 2000 pounds each.  When I first saw them, they reminded me of Clydesdale horses, but not nearly that big.

The wagon ride was not what I expected.  I thought the farm and the field would be all decorated with Christmas lights.  The only lights and decor I saw was on the stables and on the road leading up to the farm.  However, what we experienced was so cool!

We got in the wagon and Judy drove us around the field.  We were lucky to have a moonlit ride and saw all the cows and horses on the farm.  As we were coming back to the barn, we saw a mama cow and her "newly born" calf.  Judy and Curtis told us that the calf had been born in the last 3-4 hours! Riding in the wagon under the stars and being out in nature, reminded me just how lucky we are to live in Chesapeake. 

When we returned to the barn, we thanked Judy, Curtis, Simba, and Prince.  Here's documentation of my husband's first horse-petting experience:

He's so excited that he's even thinking about taking horse riding lessons!  If we do, I'll be sure to document it here on the blog.

If you'd like to take a wagon ride at Acquibob Farm, here are some helpful hints:
1.  Call ahead to reserve your day/time.  (Note: I won't post their contact information here.  You can Google it)

2.  Dress accordingly for the weather.  It was less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit when we went.  I wore shirt, jeans, tennis shoes, coat, scarf, gloves, and 2 layers of socks.  I'd recommend wearing long underwear if you have any.  

3.  Pay for your ride in cash.  I don't know if they take other forms of payment, but cash is always best in these situations.

4.  In my opinion, these rides aren't for toddlers/little kids.  It seems like they would get tired, bored, cold, or some combination thereof.  However, you know your kids best, so make your own decision. 

5.  They offer 2 types of Christmas wagon rides--on the farm and through the surrounding neighborhoods--ask about each one when you make your reservation.

6.  They will be offering rides around Valentine's Day (day and evening) and tractor-pulled hayrides in the fall, so if you can't make it out to the farm by the end of the year, you've got options!

Final Review: Acquibob's Christmas wagon rides are a great way to escape from the holiday craziness.  Take a break with your family, your sweetie, or just yourself and enjoy the outdoors for a bit!