Friday, May 22, 2009

Where Do I Begin?

Oh dear. There has been so much going on that I don't even know where to start. My mind is just swimming. I feel like everyday it is a battle to remember the basics. We are so slammed.

Let's see. Where did I leave off? Hmm...

-Ben was moved to a toddler bed, and so far we haven't had any problems. He hasn't tried to escape. He hasn't trashed his room. He has been doing a fabulous job. I feel like I am jinxing everything just writing that down, but there it is. He is a champ. Sure he fell out of bed once in the middle of the night (and somehow became wedged underneath the bed) but other than that it has been a completely smooth transition.

-My mom had her Ecocardiogram done and it was pretty miraculous. There is still a problem there, but her heart is functioning at a normal level for now so there is no need for surgery at this point. We were all so sure that surgery was needed that this was absolutely blessed news. Yay!

- Todd and I celebrated 8 years of wedded bliss last week by, oh I don't know, watching tv or something. I can't really remember. HA! If you want a nice romantic anniversary post you can see what I wrote last year for our anniversary here. I don't have it in me today. Don't worry honey, I'm not salty. It has been a good 8 years, but I'm still ticked off at you from the nasty dream I had last night.

-I had my 7 month check up (see belly pic below) and everything is still looking good. I think I am getting another ultrasound at my next appointment to check if my placenta is still lying low. Hopefully it has moved up by now. We'll see. I have noticed that I am really beginning to gain some weight now so I've decided to turn around on the doctor's scale from now on so I can't see what it says. Denial? Perhaps. But, does it even really matter? As long as doc says I'm not gaining too much too fast I'm not going to worry about it. I'll go by my trusty scale at home (which I hardly dare to step on either) for now.
I was thinking that maybe, since this is my last pregnancy (it seems), I could see how much weight I can gain. You know, really plump out. Gain as much as possible. Then I could go on The Biggest Loser (I love that freaking show) and win a ton of money. Sound like a plan? Hmm. Maybe not.

-Okay. The house situation. Here is where it gets stressful. Last you heard the house we had wanted was sold to someone else. So, because it is getting closer and closer to my due date (ACK!) we stepped up our efforts to find a place and called one of Todd's good friends from high school, who just so happens to be a very good realtor, to help us out. He gave us a bunch of new listings to look at that are in our price range with most of the things we are looking for in a house, and also offered to help us sell our house. All without taking any commission. Can you stand it? We are still running our open houses but we are now on the multiple listing for realtors to take a look at. Yay! While it has all been well and good, it has also been a lot of work.

- A week after we lost the last house I was driving through one of my favorite neighborhoods (right on top of Lake Michigan) and saw a for sale sign down one of the streets. I turned around to take a look. It is down a beautiful, quiet, dead end street where all of the houses are probably more than half a million dollars. A place we definitely can not afford to live, but like dreaming about it anyway. When I got to the house that was for sale it was the crappiest house on the block. It looked like it needed a TON of work. I wrinkled my nose and drove on. When I got home I decided to look it up online since I have always loved that neighborhood so much, and what I saw SHOCKED me. The house was selling for almost the same price we are selling our house for. How is that possible??? I had Todd do some checking and we came to find out that it is a foreclosure. Todd and I immediately called the realtors for a showing. We found that the house basically needs to be gutted. The whole heating system needs to be replaced, many of the pipes, walls ripped out, ceilings replaced, the house needs to be checked for mold. There is a huge swimming pool in the back that would need to be ripped out (I would be in a constant state of panic having a pool in my backyard, "where are the boys???" every five seconds). We ended up bringing contractors through to give us estimates of how much it would cost to get this house up and running. It turns out, a lot. But the cost of the purchase price and the construction price is still something we can afford and FAR less than the cost of the other houses in the neighborhood so there is instant equity. The house would be AMAZING when we got done with it.

We had to move FAST. The house was getting a lot of attention because of where it is located and the opportunity that it brings. We started the loan process and getting all the bids from the contractor and the subcontractors. We've been online and to local store constantly looking at countertops, cabinets, carpeting, siding, shingles, you name it, all to get estimates for our construction costs.

In the meantime we have been having a lot of showings for our house. Now that the house is showing up on the realtor's multiple listing the interest is growing. However, I am living in a constant state of chaos. I've had people at the house everyday this week. Sometimes twice a day. Keeping the house clean and presentable while still allowing my boys to live and play in it has been a major challenge. Especially since I have only had a few hours notice for some of the showings. We have a couple of people interested in the house right now, but because they just started looking (and one of them has to sell a house too) they want to look a bit more before putting in an offer.

Life is busy. And stressful.

I keep wondering what I would do if someone bought our house and the construction on the new house wasn't done yet. Where would we live? Could we go and live up at the in-laws' cabin for a while? Will the new house be ready by the time the boys are back in school this fall? Where would we live while they are going to school? The baby will most likely be here before the house is done. Where will I put her? I guess I could get a moses basket for her and she could sleep next to my bed. And maybe keep her clothes (that I don't have yet) in a box in my room. I guess that wouldn't be too bad. Hopefully it would only be for a little while. I don't know.

My head is flooded with paint colors, flooring tile, shower/tub combinations, siding choices, cabinet stains, and carpeting options. I feel a little bit crazy. Sleep has been hard to come by lately. I'm stressed. Last week I was sick again and Todd is convinced that it is because of stress. He vowed not to tell me anything about the new house anymore, but I don't think that helped.

Nothing is even definite yet. We are still in the loan process stage. Waiting for the appraisal to come back at a decent amount, yada, yada, yada. Blaaahhhhhh.

See why I haven't written at all lately?

This really is all good stuff, but is still bringing me so much stress. I feel like Debbie Downer. And I do feel guilty complaining about it. We are so lucky to be able to even have the options we have right now. Todd's job is so secure, he is busier than ever. We are very blessed. But this house stuff (along with a bunch of family stuff that I can't write about) is very stressful. It has left me a little down because I SO want to be soaking up this pregnancy. Never did I dream I would be having a little girl, and I feel so distracted right now that I am not enjoying it to the fullest. Makes me mad at myself.

I am really working hard at just trying to enjoy my growing boys and my growing belly and leaving all the rest to God's will. I can only do what I can do, and there is no need to stress. Right? Right.

So. There it is folks. Aren't you glad I haven't been posting? Haha.

I'm sorry I haven't been around to visit. I will be back again when things calm down. For now we are going to try to get up to the in-laws' cabin this weekend to help put the pier in and do some yard work and such. Maybe when I get back we can all play the name game and you can help us narrow down a list of little lady names. Yay! Girlie names!!!!

I hope you all are well and good, and have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend!

32 comments:

Hilary said...

Wow.. that's a lot of stress. I fear you'd be living in that kind of chaos for much longer than you anticipate if you buy a place that needs such extensive work. Renovations notoriously take at least twice as long (and as costly) as estimated.

Glad to hear that your Mom is doing better. Try to take some time to relax some.

Life in the Crazy Lane said...

Maybe the stress of moving will get the kid out a little early? Not too early of course, but early ...

Mom24 said...

That's a lot on your plate, for sure. I hope you can slow down and try not to stress too much. It all sounds like wonderful potential, even if it is a lot to handle.

I'll be thinking and praying for you. Great news about your mom. We'll be here whenever you feel like unloading, informing, yippi-ing, whatever. :-)

Cassie said...

I'm sorry you are so stressed out right now! Hopefully everything will just fall into place soon.

Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? said...

Oh, my. I can see why you are stressed.

I hope things start to work themselves out and you get to breathe a big sigh of relief soon.

Robyn said...

It is a lot, but it will definetly be worth it. Score on the house though. I hope yours sells soon. You can probably write in a long closing if you have to. I think I'd keep the pool though,they make a lot of great security things for them.

imbeingheldhostage said...

Great news for your Mom, so glad to hear that. And yes, lot of stress, and no, we're not glad you're not posting-- BUT completely understand.

Deep breath and enjoy these moments, not too much longer before life really gets crazy :-)

Unknown said...

Wow, I feel like I need to read this again just to take it all in! I know things are a little crazy for you right now and I can totally relate because they are that way for me too right now (although I can't write about it all yet!)

Prayers that everything works out as it should and that you can relax and enjoy the rest of your pregnancy with that sweet little girl! : )

Kat said...

Please forgive me all. I have been trying all morning to get around to all you lovely commentors but have only managed half. For some reason my computer keeps shutting down on certain blogs. I'm gone for the weekend, but truly do want to get around and see how y'all are doing. I'll try when I get back. Have a great weekend!

Robyn- Nope. No pool for us. Todd grew up with a pool and he thinks they are a huge pain in the butt (I think so too), and in Wisconsin you can't use it 3/4 of the year. You know how it is here. Plus, like I said, I'd be paranoid. Regardless of gates and stuff. ;)

Scrappy said...

Change is always hard, even if it is what is supposed to happen. I hate the feeling that your brain just won't stop. I hope you get some sleep. Don't worry, everything will work out like it should in the end.
*hugs*

tweetey30 said...

Sounds like you have your plate full. Enjoy what you can of your last pregnancy and then happy thoughts with the new house and selling the old one..

Kelly said...

It's ok to feel stressed. Heck, I was stressed by the time I finished reading your post! LOL Great news about your mom though and I'm glad you and the baby are doing well. I hope the whole house situation carries out nice and smoothly for you!!

riahli said...

Wow. That's all I can really say. Wow. I feel stressed just reading this post...life can get so overwhelming sometimes! It will soon calm down though and then the current situation will seem like a distant blur, and won't that be so nice!

ewe are here said...

Sounds stressful, BUT the good news is it's probably all going to work out beautifully in the end. And in the meantime, you KNOW that babies don't actually require much space for the first six months. A basket by your bed and a box or small chest of clothes in the corner somewhere are all you'll need. Heck, Our oldest slept in baskets next to us, and then a closet right outside our room when he was a baby (with the door open); our second as a baby slept on the landing of a rented townhouse because we didn't have a room for him... chest of drawers right next to him... and we've lived in five different places since we started having babies!

It will all work out... it will... you just need to believe it and try to relax so you can enjoy your last few months of planning for a week girl.

Kelley said...

Wow! Lots of stuff. I hope everything works out for you. Maybe this is the house God is giving you in exchange for the other one. I'm glad your Mom is okay.

About enjoying your pregnancy... I sincerely hope you can enjoy the rest of it, but even if things are so crazy you don't really get the chance, your little girl will make it all worthwhile. Mine certainly did, because I didn't enjoy my pregnancy at all. Too much pain.

dawn klinge said...

Well no wonder you haven't been around! My goodness...that's a lot you have on your plate right now. I'm glad you and your family are safe and healthy though. I was a little bit worried about you. Sounds like you deserve a relaxing weekend at the cabin.

tracey.becker1@gmail.com said...

Whew! I'm tired just from reading that.

I'm glad it's all GOOD stress, though. Still, it's stress, so take care of yourself.

Karen Deborah said...

Kat this would be hard for a woman who isn't 7 months pregnant. You approaching the nesting phase, time to be scure and get ready to settle in and give birth. It's really ok you feel like this. a lot of excitement for sure and great opportunity but the timing isn't great. Your right lean on God, in all your way acknowledge him and he will direct your path. The peace of God which passes all understanding WILL keep your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. I think a Moses basket sounds cool. little babies don't need much.
Your brave and strong you'll be fine.

Maggie's Mind said...

Wow, that's a whole lot of busy and crazy all at once! I bet things will fall into place just fine. Can't wait to see how things turn out and whether you do go forward with this new place. Even if it's a lot of options, it's gotta be kinda fun to pick out all the colors and materials you want. Stressful, too, maybe. ;) Hang in there.

Emily said...

Whew! That is stressful!!! I've got my fingers crossed that you get some things settled soon. It's hard to feel so unsettled in general and especially when you're pregnant. Can't wait to see what going on in the name game department!

lime said...

really glad to hear your mom won't need surgery. also a belated happy anniversary. as for the house, well...that IS a stressful thing, especially when you consider there will be a bay added to the mix soon. you'll be fine though. you've got loving family and health. you've got support.

Anonymous said...

Whoa! You DO have a lot on your plate! Congrats on your future girl in the family; that's wonderful! You have a lot going for you, Kat; don't let yourself get too stressed out.

Take care, and have a nice weekend at the cabin!

painted maypole said...

whew. now I'm even MORE tired. ;)

Anonymous said...

Whew! At least there are some bright spots in the midst of all this craziness. I'm glad the bed is working out--and the house around that bed will work out too.

Putting the FUN in DysFUNctional said...

You have a TON of stuff on your plate right now, of course you're stressed! I hope it's not too hard on you and things settle down soon (if that's possible? lol).
Take care!

Anonymous said...

Hello...STRESS. I hope things smooth out soon with ALL of it. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you. In the meantime, take care of yourself and that baby. :-)

Fire Hunt said...

Wow.. that's a lot of stress, but all good things. i have not been on in a long time so it was good to read your blog!

MamaGeek @ Works For Us said...

Well I'm sending good, healthy (and plumping up vibes) your way Kat.

Hopefully the long weekend was a good relaxer.

david mcmahon said...

That's a lot to deal with, Kat, but all in a very upbeat way, which is a HUGE blessing.

All of you are in our thoughts.

Stephanie Wilson she/her @babysteph said...

Wow SO exciting about your house! I can't wait to hear an update!

Steph

just jamie said...

Yikes. And I thought I had a lot going on. Best wishes in this uncertain time. NOT knowing can be so stressful, but your outlook is healthy and positive and it REALLY WILL turn out fabulous. The new house (maybe) sounds like an exciting prospect...

Beck said...

That IS a lot of stress. I hope you're handling it okay.
I HOPE YOU GET THE HOUSE!!!!!!

Words To Live By

Be grateful for each new day.
A new day that you have never lived before.
Twenty-four new, fresh, unexplored hours to use usefully and profitably.
We can squander, neglect, or use them.
Life will be richer or poorer by the way we use today.
Finish every day and be done with it.
You have done what you could;
some blunders and absurdities crept in;
forget them as soon as you can.
Tomorrow is a new day.
You shall begin it well and serenely and with too high a spirit to be
encumbered with your old nonsense.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson