Silly Rabbit...

Oh dear...

2009-07-03T08:38:00.003-05:00

Let me start by saying, I love Jon and Kate Plus 8 but this video made me almost pee my pants.

I HEART Michael Walline...

2009-05-25T18:04:00.004-05:00

My boy and I...

12 weeks old already. He is so precious. I love this picture.

Time flies...

2009-04-23T06:47:00.003-05:00

When you are having fun!

What is happening here?

2009-04-12T19:23:00.002-05:00

Cyndi - Boy (James)
Andrea - Boy (Chase)
Nicole - Boy (Nicholas)
Kristen - Boy (Gabriel)
Me - Boy (Vincent)
Meg - Twin Boys (Gabriel and Nate)
Kim - Boy (Owen)
Michele - Boy (Coming soon!)
Kristy - Boy (Coming soon!)

Hmmmmmm...

"Do you need help little man?"

2009-04-01T09:07:00.001-05:00

My Aunt Debbie sent this to me and I nearly wet my pants. Nothing like a gay man and animal testing to make your sides hurt.

I could never get a handle on the whole punting thing...

2009-03-28T20:14:00.002-05:00

This kid cracks me up. I am right there with him.

BufBloPoFo DAY FOURTEEN

2009-03-28T20:11:00.003-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for DAYFOURTEEN - So are you sad it’s almost done? Are you going to miss all of your fellow participants? Well, your assignment is to give us a farewell speech. I’m continually amazed that anyone decided to play along with the BufBloPoFo. I say you take it easy tomorrow for your last day and just post a quick “so long” to your fellow participants.

The child is sleeping, amazingly enough. Therefore I have time for a lyric post only. This sleep will not last long. To my fellow participants:

Saying goodbye, going away
Seems like goodbye's such a hard thing to say
Touching a hand, wondering why
It's time for saying goodbye.

Saying goodbye, why is it sad?
Makes us remember the good times we've had
Much more to say, foolish to try
It's time for saying goodbye.

Dont want to leave, but we both know
Sometimes it's better to go.

Somehow I know we'll meet again
Not sure quite where, and I dont know just when
You're in my heart, so until then
Wanna smile, wanna cry
Saying goodbye
It's time for saying goodbye.

BufBloPoFo Day 13

2009-03-27T12:43:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 13 - Link to whatever you posted exactly one year ago (or whatever’s closest), and give your readers an update on that topic. If you haven’t been writing for a year, give us a list of three or four things that are going on in your life right now that you’ll want to update one year from now.

I decided to post a video that I put up 2 years ago which was in regard to our future children (I WAS RIGHT!!) as well as a post from last year.

My baby farts like an 80 year old man filled with prune juice and refried beans. I love it. The first day we brought him home I was feeding him and he started farting and Todd and I were laughing hysterically. The laughter stopped rather quickly when I realized he had pooped so much that it came out of his diaper and all over his new pj's and my arm. Ahhh, kids.

As for Bikram Yoga?? That was the first and last time I did Bikram. I can't stand the heat but I love the idea. I am thinking about taking up Yoga since I did it for a few months during pregnancy and really liked it. We shall see. Vincent rules my life right now and as Lisa Vitrano told me on Facebook, "You are merely the milkmaid to the Prince." Ain't that the truth.

BufBloPoFo 09 Day 12

2009-03-25T20:37:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo 09 Topic for Day 12: For day 12 (three more days!) I want to hear your best advice for those of us raising kids.

I am raising a child therefore I will just post a quote.

"Romance fails us and so do friendships, but the relationship of parent and child, less noisy than all the others, remains indelible and indestructible, the strongest relationship on earth."

Theodore Reik

BufBloPoFo 09 Day 11

2009-03-25T20:31:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo 09 Topic for Day 11 Holy crap! 1. Take out your cell phone. 2. Turn it around and take a picture of yourself AS YOU ARE RIGHT THIS SECOND NO CHEATING. 3. Post that pic and describe it. Where are you? Why are you wearing that?

I have a 3 week old. There is poop on my shirt, puke in my hair and I am pretty sure I am still wearing my PJ's from last night. There will be no photo tonight. I have my pride.

That is me peeking out from MJ's left shoulder minus the Easter hat. Pretty much.

BufBloPoFoMonique Day (Day 10)

2009-03-25T20:06:00.002-05:00

For BufBloPoFoMonique day, tell me who inspires you. Who is your hero?

Tim Ward and Julie Burdick. I lost them both within months of eachother and even though it has been years since they left this earth the wound is still raw.

Tim and I met in 1993 when I went to visit Niagara University and watched Little Shop, the show he directed. I could tell immediately we would be good friends and our relationship blossomed into something better than I ever expected. He became my Father away from home and my mentor during my time at NU. We did many shows together during and after college. I loved him dearly and I still do. He lost his battle with a kidney disease in September, 2006 and I was able to talk to him one last time in June. He was excited to be making it to his 69th birthday, his favorite year he told me. He called me "meechele" and I called him "my old man" and to this day his teachings and unconditional love inspire me to do great work and "make something happen" in life and on stage.

Julie I met around 1998 when she started dating my friend Derek. She was gorgeous and had an amazing stage presence and voice. She was cast in Musicalfare's Edwin Drood as Rosa Bud and even at her young age she was a powerhouse on stage. I was smitten with her immediately. Our friendship grew while she was an NU student and we did Oklahoma together at Artpark, our one and only show that we did together. We kept in touch after she moved to NYC and it wasn't long before she got her first tour and worked consistently after that. The last time I saw her was at Tim Ward's memorial where we sang together for the last time. Tim loved Children of Eden (a show that he directed) and he requested that I sing Children of Eden at his memorial. It was the hardest thing I have ever done emotionally but now looking back it is so bittersweet. That song was Tim's favorite and Julie and I got to sing it together. That is something I will always cherish.

BufBloPoFo 09 Day 9

2009-03-22T18:38:00.003-05:00

BufBloPoFo 09 Topic for Day 9: Today’s assignment was to talk about the BufBloPoFo participant below you on the list over there on the sidebar. Today, if the blogger above you on that list was kind enough to ask you a question, answer it! If not, either find a question that was asked of someone else and answer that or, you know, write a post about, um... soup. Look, these topics can’t all be winners, people.

DEAR LORD THE CHILD IS CRYING AND I AM STILL NOT CAUGHT UP!!!

My question was: Now you've been a mom for a whole three weeks now, how are you adjusting to motherhood and is it everything you had expected?

It is everything I expected and more. It is scary, frustrating, wonderful, miraculous, and I am looking forward to so many things I had taken for granted. Halloween, Christmas and Family vacations are things I am really looking forward to more than ever. This year Vincent will be 9 months old for Christmas and he will be picking out a Christmas Tree, hanging Star Wars ornaments with Daddy, Disney ornaments with Mommy and opening gifts. Soon he will be excited about going to bed because Santa will be bringing him toys. It sounds so cheesy but I feel like I am reliving my childhood through him. My bucket list got a lot longer since he arrived and I plan on trying to get through every last one of them. Disney during Star Wars weekends is right up there on top of the list. :)

BufBloPoFo 09 Day 8

2009-03-22T18:31:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo 09 Topic for Day 8: Take a look to the right over there and you’ll see a list of the “BufBloPoFo 09 Participants”. It’s pretty, isn’t it?!? Look at them all! Okay, now find whichever blog is below yours and talk about that dude. If you know them, tell us how you met. If you don’t know them, talk about something you read on their site. Whichever it is, end your post by asking that person a question. (That last part maaaaaaay be important later on...)

Bryan Mahoney. Unfortunately I do not know him, BUT I can safely say he and Michael Jordan really don't look TOO much alike. I love the beard post and if I may, I enjoy the fireman/cop one (very Reno 911) and you are like my husband in the sense that you are blessed to look great with and without a beard!! He loves Ted's Hot Dogs, Duff's and Anchor Bar and Beef on Weck. Him and I would get along JUST fine. My question for Bryan would be, I am assuming you are from out of town based on your post of foods you miss from Buffalo is that correct? What else do you miss and is there anything that would potentially bring you back into Western New York??

BufBloPoFo Day 7

2009-03-22T18:28:00.001-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 7: In recognition of that, you get a freebie for Day 7. It’s like the center square of your BufBloPoFo bingo card where you get to use those creative participant brains of yours and come up with your own topic. And hey, if I like it, I’ll use it for everyone in week two...

I am playing catch up!!!

For my free day, please take note of this product.

DONE!

Lame, I know. Forgive me.

BufBloPoFo Day 6

2009-03-19T21:19:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 6: Tell me about your first home away from home. Tell me about the first apartment you had that wasn’t under your parents’ roof. A dorm? A loft? A cardboard box? Give us a tour.

My first home away from home was a dorm at Niagara University in O'Shea Hall. The rooms were TEENY (about the size of an average bedroom) but 2 people lived in each room. We (I cannot remember her name only that she lived in Mexico, New York) lived on the 7th floor and each had a desk, bed, and closet and that was pretty much it. Bathrooms were down the hall and used by everyone on the floor. Pretty funky and gross. Knowing that I am still paying for that dorm room in my student loans, it was SO not worth it. I only stayed a year and then commuted for the rest of my time there.

If you will excuse me, I need to sleep. Ha. Sleep? What is this word sleep?? :)

BufBloPoFo Day 5

2009-03-19T21:18:00.001-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 5: Who would play you in a movie? Who would play me?

ME - Kate Winslet because I love her.
YOU - Seth Rogan because he is adorable and funny.

Man, this is the most boring blog post ever. Forgive a woman with a cluster feeding infant.

BufBloPoFo 09 Day Four

2009-03-17T19:43:00.002-05:00

Mike, for tomorrow, I think everyone should use their blogs to brag about something. And it can't be your kids or significant other because Katie said she doesn't want to read about that crap.

The first time I went to Disney World I was 1 year old. When I turned 5 I started going once a year until I turned 15. After that the trips were sporadic but I was going whenever I could afford it which wasn't too often. Since my first trip at the age of 1, I can make a safe estimation that I have been to Disney at least 20 times in my 32 years. That is awesome. Sad to some I am sure but I could go another 20 times and never get bored with it.

Sorry Katie but I have to mention that I really hope Vincent loves it as much as I did and do. If Mickey Mouse reaches out to him and he cries, my heart may break a little. :)

BufBloPoFo Day 3

2009-03-17T19:32:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 3: If nothing else, BufBloPoFo is a learning tool. Last year, we learned how to load a dishwasher, how to take a leak, etc. Let’s keep that going this year, but instead of focusing on what people are doing wrong, tell me what you think you do right. Walk me through a process. Give me the step-by-steps. Can you make damn good baba ganoush? Can you tie a bow tie? Can you pour the perfect Guinness??? Teach me how, perfesser.

Michele's sure fire way to get rid of stubborn diaper rash.

First and foremost, when your child is screaming because you are rubbing his tush raw (mainly because that is all he does is poop) your heart breaks. There is nothing worse than hearing that awful howling. Everything I read stated that "the area" needs air. For those of you with boys, you know this is near impossible. Little boys who get "air" also pee all over their Mommy and Daddy's. I came up with a better solution all around.

First, get rid of the wipes completely. Sensitive or not, they are no good for newborn sensitive skin. Although it may seem inconvenient at 2am, a washcloth with warm water will really help in the long run. Gently clean the area and using a hair dryer on low warm, dry his bum bum. Studies show that the hair dryer is also a useful tool to stop babies from crying because of the "white noise" sound. Using premature diapers that no longer fit him, tee pee his pee pee. I am sure there is an easier way, but I have yet to figure it out. Once his bum is dry, apply desired bum cream (A&D for us) and diaper away. Within 3-4 days, the once red and blistered bum bum will be healed and looking like new.

The end.

Did I mention I am exhausted?

BufBloPoFo Day 2

2009-03-15T17:01:00.002-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 2: If you had the power to put together the most perfect, end-of-the-universe, nothing-better-was-ever-made repast, using whatever ingredients you want, and with whomever you’d like as your co-diners, what would you want? Tell me about one little bit, or all fourteen courses. Tell me about venue, about background music, about which box of wine goes best with which flavor of ramen noodles.

Todd, Vincent and I sitting down to the following meal is making me hungry...

Appetizer - Endless Raw Clams

Salad - Wakame Salad by the gallon

Soup - Italian Wedding

Entree - Alaskan King Crab Legs hold the drawn butter

Dessert - Anything chocolate is fine with me

Venue - The patio outside Cinderella's Castle. Shut up.

Background Music - Do I have to say it? The Cinderella Castle Theme would work just fine.

A hearty Shiraz would pair nicely with Beef Ramen. Hmmmm.

I must admit, this posting everyday crap is harder than I thought it would be with a fresh out of the oven child. Wooo. Trying to keep up... I think I can, I think I can.

BufBloPoFo 2009 Day One

2009-03-14T18:58:00.004-05:00

BufBloPoFo Topic for Day 1: For your first day of Blufporbfofoing, tell me the three biggest things going on in your life right now. If you have fewer than three things going on in your life right now, then your assignment is to come over to my house and pack. (Ahem *slacker* cough...)

I. Disability - I am officially considered DISABLED by New York State. That has NEVER happened to me! I have never had any broken bones or accidents that threw me out of work for an extended period of time. I kind of like it. I don't like the pay cut, but you know... take what you can get I suppose.

II. Theatre - This may be the longest I have gone without doing a show. Because we were trying to have a child, I only auditioned for Sunday in the Park with George, which I was cast in as Frieda. VERY exciting. Lou, as usual, was my husband and the cast was amazing. However, I have been without a show since May of last year. I had to drop out of Sunday in the Park with George because...

III. Vincent - Todd and I had a baby!!! A damn cute one too. Vincent Todd Benzin was born on March 1, 2009 at 11:49 am. He weighed 7lbs 5 oz and measured 20 inches long. He is adorable, amazing and we just can't get enough of him. Because of our little miracle, my posts shall be short and sweet but I will attempt to follow the rules.

Oh this is too good.

2009-03-11T19:19:00.000-05:00

My heart aches I love him so much...

2009-03-06T21:48:00.006-05:00

Todd and I are overwhelmed with love for our son Vincent. God he makes my heart ache. 2 Lennon songs we sing to him that express what we are feeling:

LOVE

Love is real, Real is love, Love is feeling, Feeling love, Love is wanting to be loved

Love is touch, Touch is love, Love is reaching, Reaching love, Love is asking to be loved

Love is you, you and me, Love is knowing, we can be

Love is free, Free is love, Love is living, Living love

Love is needing to be loved.

BEAUTIFUL BOY

Close your eyes, Have no fear
The monsters gone, He's on the run and your daddy's here
Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful Boy
Before you go to sleep, Say a little prayer
Every day in every way, It's getting better and better
Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful Boy
Out on the ocean sailing away, I can hardly wait
To see you to come of age, But I guess we'll both
Just have to be patient, Yes it's a long way to go
But in the meantime..
Before you cross the street, Take my hand
Life is just what happens to you, While your busy making other plans
Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful Boy
Darling, Darling, Darling Boy.

I really hope you've been reading facebook and not waiting for me to update this blog...

2009-03-01T21:55:00.003-05:00

better late than never?

ATTENTION PEOPLE OF THE INTERNETS: TODD AND MICHELE HAVE A BABY BOY!!!

Vincent Todd Benzin was born early this afternoon via c-section. Mama, Daddy, and Baby are doing wonderfully, and I can say objectively that he is beyond precious.

baby or bust

2009-03-01T10:19:00.003-05:00

hi all! Michele has trusted me (silly girl) with her blogger password so i can update the throngs of people who read this blog. SO!

last night Michele and Todd went to the hospital and Michele got Cervidil - this morning, the pitocin began. so far, that's all i've got.

i will update as soon as i hear!

xoxo,
lisa (the downstairs neighbor)

39 weeks!!!

2009-02-27T11:08:00.000-05:00

This will be my last update before Baby Benzin arrives. HOLY CRAP!

I am not progressing AT ALL in the cervix department and the baby is at minus 3 station, meaning it is floating and not engaging in my pelvis. So, we are being sent to the hospital on Saturday evening to get a sonogram to see how the baby is lying as well as an internal to see if the baby has moved down at all. The answers to those questions will lead to what happens next. If the baby is in the oblique position (laying diagonally) and still floating at minus 3 we are deemed as unfavorable candidates for an induction and will be scheduled for a c-section the following morning. If the baby has dropped and laying in a regular up and down position, I will be given cervidel Saturday evening and then induced on Sunday morning with pitocin. My Dr. is not hopeful for a natural delivery however.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Baby Benzin is waiting to greet the world! He or she continues to build a layer of fat to help control its body temperature after birth, but it's likely he or she already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

That's all I have for now. Lisa will be updating this blog while we are in the hospital so stay tuned for any updates and news of Baby's arrival!!!!

Induction is up in the air until Thursday**!

2009-02-20T15:55:00.007-05:00

**Turns out our Doctor had minor surgery on Friday and will not be back in the office until Wednesday, so we won't know anything until Thursday. Check back then!!

Let me start off by saying Baby Benzin is a CHUBBY baby. Not because of its weight, just the amount of fat on this kid is unreal and adorable. The cheeks and tummy in particular stood out to me as being so squeezable. As of right now, the baby is weighing in at approximately 7lbs 13oz give or take 6oz. Either way, it is over 7 lbs but not over 8 which is where I needed to be to be induced. I will chat with my Dr. on Monday and see what they think. Here are some pictures from our last sonogram.

Profile:

Foot:

Looking at the camera:
Another Glamour Shot:

Look at those cheeks:

This is an awful picture. It reminds me of Donald from Fat Albert or Bat Boy:

38 weeks!!!

2009-02-19T20:40:00.006-05:00

First and foremost, the Buffalo Theatre community is so small and we consider each other one big happy extended family. Losing someone in that family is painful and this community has had its fair share of losses in the past month. On January 13th we lost Tim White from complications of his dialysis. He was in the show American Rhapsody at Musicalfare Theatre at the time of his death and it came as a shock to everyone of his passing. Today we received another blow. Michael Tosha, Associate Producer of O'Connell and Company passed away while in Cleveland. No word on what caused his death, but he was a wonderful man and will be missed.

Now, on a lighter note...

I am holding up really well for being 9 1/2 months pregnant. I am still working and plan on working until my water breaks or contractions begin. My boss is qualified to deliver a child but has made me promise that he won't have to. Every time he sees me in the office he cracks up and just says, "I really don't think you should be here." The truth is, I feel great! Almost too good. Yes I have aches and pains but for being where I am in the pregnancy, I am doing really REALLY well.

I had an Ob-Gyn appointment today and I lost 5 pounds since last week. Not sure how or why that happened, but the Doc didn't seem too concerned. (Imagine losing weight and thinking of it as a bad thing??) We did hear great news which was I may be induced NEXT WEEK! The Doc is convinced that our child is over 8 pounds and if that is the case, he wants to stop the the cooking process and get the baby out before my chances of a regular delivery are completely nixed. So we have an ultrasound tomorrow to get an estimate of Baby Benzin's size and based on what we find out, we may be parents a week early!! If the sonogram shows that the baby is less than 90th percentile (meaning an average sized baby), we will be pregnant for another 2-4 weeks. On a side note, the baby is still head down and is curled up on my right side with its little feet kicking my left AND while last week the baby had a BABY BOY heartbeat of 132, this week had a BABY GIRL heartbeat of 158. Hm. We shall see!

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week.

Our baby has really plumped up. He or she weighs about 6.8 pounds and is over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). Baby has a firm grasp, which we'll soon be able to test when we hold his or her hand for the first time! The organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb. Wondering what color our baby's eyes will be? We may not be able to tell right away. If the baby is born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If baby is born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time Baby Benzin is 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after the birth, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

Well, that's it for now. Stay tuned for new pictures of the Baby tomorrow!

I'm weird!!!

2009-02-18T06:53:00.004-05:00

This little girl touches my heart. I remember spending hours by myself and making up crap that probably would make other people wonder what the hell was wrong with me. Here, this little girl takes a book with pictures of kittens and just adds captions to each one. She made Todd and I crack up and I completely respect her imagination.

Enjoy!!

37 weeks = FULL TERM!!!

2009-02-12T07:18:00.002-05:00

Holy crap, it could be any day now! Sadly Todd and I are perpetually late to everything so this child may have inherited that unfortunate gene. The baby has not dropped at all and I am so used to the Braxton Hicks Contractions I hardly feel them anymore. Your brain tells you that you are going to be pregnant forever, even though of course I know that isn't the case. Still, it didn't help when I found a program on The Discovery Channel called, "Pregnant for 47 Years." Sigh.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Baby Benzin is full term! This means that if our baby arrives now, the lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though our due date is still three weeks away. Our baby weighs approximately 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if our baby's hair isn't the same color as ours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

I am predicting peach fuzz for this child with a sporty mohawk perhaps? Looking forward to the next few weeks! I am not at the point where I am saying, "If I am pregnant for 1 more day I will kill someone" so I am taking advantage of the fact that I feel pretty darn good! If I am still pregnant a week after my due date, my tune may change a bit. :)

STAY TUNED!!

I am not a dog person BUT...

2009-02-11T07:25:00.001-05:00

This video just about made me into one. Thanks Lou!!

36 weeks and 4 more weeks to go...

2009-02-05T22:51:00.003-05:00

It appears that Debbie Pappas (grrrrr, love you lots) may be correct with her guess of being 2 weeks late. Baby Benzin is comfy and cozy in its warm sauna and has NO intention of coming early. It is still very high and has not "dropped" so Todd and I will be waiting a little while longer to meet this little one. I think February 28th and March 1st are great days to have a baby. Here is hoping.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Our baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. He or she now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. Baby is shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered its body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected its skin during its nine-month amniotic bath. Our baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of that precious first bowel movement. At the end of this week, Baby Benzin will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely Baby Benzin is in a head-down position. But if not, the Doc may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying they will try to coax the baby into a head-down position by manipulation from the outside of my belly.

Baby Benzin is indeed, for now at least, head down and I am measuring right on time. So I didn't have to hear any of this "huge baby" crap today which was nice.

Great movie pregnancy quotes...

2009-02-03T23:01:00.002-05:00

"Where do babies come from?"
"Where do you think they come from?"
"Well. I think a stork, he umm, he drops it down and then, and then, a hole goes in your body and there's blood everywhere, coming out of your head and then you push your belly button and then your butt falls off and then you hold your butt and you have to dig and you find the little baby."
"That's exactly right."

Knocked Up

"Sam! My water broke!"
"Well, we'll get you another one!"

"I've got it! Nurse, call the Anesthesiologist, this woman needs an enema!
"An enema?"
"No, uh, she needs a pedicure!"
"This ain't no goddam beauty parlor!"
"Epitath!?"
"She's not dead, you moron!"
"Epidermus... Uh..."
"Epidural, asshole!"

9 Months

"Ow, ow, fuckity-ow! Bren, when do I get that spinal tap thing?"
"It's called a spinal block. And you can't have it yet, honey. The doctor said you're not dilated enough."
"You mean I have to wait for it to get worse? Why can't they just give it to me now?"
"Well, honey, doctors are sadists who like to play God and watch lesser people scream."

"Can I use the facilities? Because being pregnant makes me pee like Seabiscuit."

"You're pregnant?"
"I'm sorry. I'm sorry... And if it is any consolation I have heartburn that is radiating in my knee caps and I haven't taken a dump since like Wednesday... morning!"

Juno

"It's weird, isn't it? You spend the first nine months trying to get out and the rest of your life trying to get back in."

"Look, you gotta use Lamaze. It works. My sister-in-law used it. You don't use drugs, and it's better for the kid."
"You know, the only people who say stupid things like that are men, because they're idiots!"

"I think being a good father is keeping the mother happy so she doesn't drive the kids crazy."

Look Who's Talking

Nursery is DONE!

2009-01-31T21:40:00.004-05:00

Thank goodness gracious, the Baby's room is DONE and covered in Pooh. :)

Here are some pics:

35 weeks and 35 days to go...

2009-01-29T14:46:00.002-05:00

Bottles are washed, sterilized and air drying. Baby's laundry is done and folded. Nursery is almost completely ready. Um, am I missing something?

I have stopped being ecstatic and started getting anxious. Not nervous, just ready for this kid to be here. I am getting into that period of pregnancy in which you just want to slap people when they say things like, "any day now" or "anything yet" and the everyday asked question, "are you excited?" No. Not at all. I am about to become a parent with the coolest bearded man on the block. Why would I be excited? :)

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Our baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that baby is over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in my womb, Baby Benzin isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of kicks should remain about the same. The kidneys are fully developed now, and the liver can process some waste products. Most basic physical development is now complete — he or she will spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

So many things to look forward to...

2009-01-26T14:11:00.000-05:00

34 weeks!!!

2009-01-22T18:10:00.002-05:00

What a day. What a WEEK! Todd and I had 2 showers over the weekend; one held by my Mother in Law and the other by my Mother, Aunt Debbie, Grama, and Sisters Amanda and Barb. The outpouring of love and kindness shown by both sides of the family was just amazing and Todd and I were quite overwhelmed. We got so many wonderful things and are really giddy imagining Baby Benzin in some of the outfits and being new parents!

On another exciting note, our nursery furniture was delivered yesterday and it is just GORGEOUS! Todd and I stood in the doorway looking into the room and the feeling is surreal. We are about to start such an amazing journey with the best of each of us wrapped up in this little being. In just 6 weeks (hopefully less) we will be holding this little one and our lives will truly begin. Life will never be the same, and we will wonder what our lives were like before Baby Benzin arrived.

Our wonderful friends the Garvey's live downstairs (for now, sniff sniff) and their 2 1/2 year old daughter Maeve has been deemed the Baby Whisperer. In June, 2008 I went downstairs and Maeve, out of nowhere, lifted up my shirt and poked my belly. The next day I found out I was pregnant. Today Lisa, her Momma, asked Maeve what was growing in my belly and she replied, "Girl Baby." I asked what I should name her and she again replied, "Girl Baby." Ok. Girl Baby Benzin it is.

Also, I had my bi-weekly visit today and I was informed that another sonogram has to be done. My Dr. felt my belly and said, "Oh Michele, this is going to be a big baby." So a sonogram will be done in 4 weeks (if I last that long) and if the baby is measuring over 9 pounds, the Dr. will allow me to labor on my own for 4 hours and if there is no dilatation or progress, a C-Section will be done. However, at 32 weeks Baby Benzin was 3 pounds, 14 ounces (approximately) and was considered "average" for its size and age. Assuming babies gain 1/2 pound a week at this point, that would put Baby Benzin at around 4 pounds, 14 ounces as of today. Now if you place a 5 pound anything in a little bag, it will appear MUCH bigger than say if you placed same said 5 pound anything in a duffel bag. He has been telling me I am measuring ahead since the beginning. I go to the sonogram and they have always told me the same thing: "Baby is right on time and measuring normal." Yeah, no shit. On that note...

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Baby Benzin now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Fat layers — which will help regulate body temperature once born — are filling baby out, making baby rounder. The skin is also smoother than ever. The central nervous system is maturing and the lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

33 weeks and 5 days!

2009-01-20T07:15:00.003-05:00

I have been slacking, big time. Todd and I had 2 baby showers this weekend and our Nursery is FINALLY being delivered tomorrow so we have been a WEE BIT BUSY! I will elaborate a bit more later on our wonderful showers. Although another update is due in 2 days, for now:

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week...

This week Baby Benzin weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. Baby is rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and the skeleton is hardening. The bones in the skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for Baby Benzin to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as the brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

Another update and picture (hopefully) in just a few days!!

The Duggers have NOTHING on this lady!!!

2009-01-15T20:45:00.001-05:00

I saw this on my weekly baby email and I thought I would share it with you.

Just a little something to pass the time while you wait for an update and new picture.

Brace yourselves.

A Russian woman holds the record for having the most children. Between 1725 and 1765, she was pregnant 27 times and had 69 children.

32 weeks and 4 days!

2009-01-11T16:07:00.006-05:00

We are at the 8 month mark! Unfortunately women are pregnant for 10 months so I have another 2 months before our "due date" of March 5, 2009. I am pretty sure this will be a February baby so I am thinking another 40 days of pregnancy is in the works. I can already tell I will really miss being pregnant. Yes, yes there are a handful of annoyances that come along with it that I will NOT miss at all, but all in all I will miss it.

There WERE 7 of us who WERE pregnant (Baby F., Baby G., Baby U., Baby C., Baby C., Baby K. and US) and one of us have welcomed a new baby. Congrats to Paschal and Kristen for Little Gabriel who was born on Sunday January 11th, 2009 at 12:45am!! I am NEXT! Then Meg, Kimmy, Michele U., Kristy and Mo will round out the bunch. If I had the money to start it up I am pretty sure I could make a living running a Theatre Day Care.

Ok, here's what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

By now, baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space. Mommy is gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to the baby. In fact, Baby Benzin will gain a third to half of the birth weight during the next 7 weeks as baby fattens up for survival outside the womb. Baby Benzin now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). That gorgeous skin is becoming soft and smooth as baby plumps up in preparation for birth.

DON'T FORGET TO PUT IN YOUR GUESS FOR BABY BENZIN!! THE QUIZ WILL BE CLOSED AS OF FEBRUARY 1ST!!!

LINK IS TO THE RIGHT ----------->

Let's act like celebrities and make a statement!!

2009-01-10T08:05:00.002-05:00

Baby names have come a long way since Jack, Mary, John, Jane, Steve, Sally, Mike and so on. People are really going out on a limb and coming up with some REALLY cooky names. Why it seems like celebrities take the cake on the strangest baby names? Who knows. Here are my top 10 favorite celebrity baby names:

10. Bono - Elijah Bob Patricus Guggi Q
9. Paula Yates and Michael Hutchence - Tiger Lily Heavenly Hirani
8. Jermaine Jackson - Jermajesty
7. David Carrdine - I.P. Freely
6. Jason Lee - Pilot Inspekter
5. Shannyn Sossamon - Audio Science
4. Paula Yates and Bob Geldof - Fifi Trixibelle
3. Angie and David Bowie - Zowie
2. Helen Baxendale and David Eliot - Nell Marmalade

and the WINNER IS...

1. Lisa Bonet and Jason Momoa - Nakoa-Wolf Manakauapo Namakaeha Momoa (pronounced Na-Ko-Ah Wolf Mana-Ka-Ooh-Ah-Po Namma-Kay-Ah-Ha Mo-Moa)

Hmmm. Pilot Benzin? I.P. Benzin? Jermastesy Benzin? None of those work. We will stick with our favorite: Ivanna Mercedes Benzin. That kicks all those celebrity kids collective asses.

This may be the cutest, sweetest 4D baby that ever lived...

2009-01-05T16:30:00.006-05:00

We had our last sonogram appointment today (we think) and Baby Benzin is measuring around 3 pounds 14 ounces (56th percentile) which is LOVELY! Not too big, not too small, just right. As the technician was looking at the baby in the 4D image, Baby Benzin opened its eyes which she said was very rare. She called the baby a "swimmer" since it liked to look at things under the water as well as being a squirm bug. So, here is Baby Benzin in 4D!!!

Baby Benzin with its eyes open and looking sleepy:

Looking grumpy:

Talking on its baby cell phone:

(Note: Because the technician was bouncing the wand around, artifacts were created in the picture which is why it looks like my child has horns.)

We are so in love with this child already. Pretty soon we will be squeezing those little cheeks and holding those little hands. Soon...

31 weeks!! (And Happy New Year!)

2009-01-01T21:44:00.005-05:00

Amazing to think that 2009 is the year Baby Benzin will be born. 63 days from now will be the 40 week mark and 44 days from now will be the 37 week mark. For those of you who don't know 37 weeks is FULL TERM!!! Todd and I will be parents so soon and every day that passes we get more and more excited. Nervous? Yes, of course. I think of the movie Juno when Vanessa (Jennifer Garner) is holding her new baby and asks Bren (Allison Janney) how she looks. Bren replies, "Like a new mom. Scared shitless." However, Todd and I work so well together as a team that my fears melt away as quickly as they come. Our baby showers are coming up in just a couple of weeks and not long after that our furniture will be here. Everything is coming together and with every little step forward we get a bit more giddy about this new Benzin coming into our lives.

On that note, here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

This week, Baby Benzin measures over 16 inches long. He or she weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. Baby Benzin can turn its head from side to side, and Baby's arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath the skin. Baby Benzin is probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

Here is our most recent BUMP picture:

Happy New Year everyone!!!

**ADDED NOTE**

Today Baby Benzin's little foot decided to shove past my stomach muscles and I was able to grab on to his or her heel. It was amazing, wonderful and disgusting all at the same time.

The NEW song of The Count!!

2008-12-30T23:18:00.002-05:00

What happens when you add a 'BLEEP' every time the Count says "COUNT"? Hilarity.

30 weeks and 1 day!!

2008-12-26T09:00:00.007-05:00

Wow. I remember turning 30 and being anxious, depressed, annoyed, and OLD. Now I am 30 weeks pregnant and I feel anxious but have replaced depression and annoyance with feeling thrilled, overjoyed and excited. I cannot believe we will meet this baby in less than 70 days. I woke up with a major sore throat this morning but I feel this baby dancing inside of me and who cares? Life is good, sore throat and all.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Baby Benzin is about 15.7 inches long now, and weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him or her, but that volume will decrease as the baby gets bigger and takes up more room in my uterus. Eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after the birth, Baby Benzin will keep those beautiful eyes closed for a good part of the day. When they do open, Baby Benzin will respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means the baby can only make out objects a few inches from that cute little face.

**UPDATE**
I passed my Diabetes test with flying colors and Baby is doing great.

It is about that time kids...

2008-12-23T15:04:00.002-05:00

Wondering where Santa Claus is right now? Track him HERE!

Wondering if you were a good boy or girl this year? Find out HERE!

A Christmas Miracle to tug on your heart strings:

29 weeks and 4 days...

2008-12-22T11:31:00.002-05:00

73 days to go! As of last night the nursery is fully painted and ready for furniture. We are getting more and more excited as the days FLY by. Todd picked up a cute little PJ set we got for Baby Benzin from Mama Battaglia and we were both giggling and cooing over it. Soon the basinette, clothes and apartment will be filled with Baby Benzin and we are really looking forward to holding/kissing/hugging/singing to/reading to and loving our baby.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

Baby Benzin now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Those strong muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his or her head is growing bigger to make room for that developing brain. To meet increasing nutritional demands, I will need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because Baby Benzin's bones are soaking up lots of calcium, I have to start drinking milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in Baby Benzin's hardening skeleton each day.

"Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body." - Elizabeth Stone

"Who throws a shoe? Honestly?" Austin Powers

2008-12-15T18:47:00.000-05:00

I'd throw a pie!

You know you're pregnant when...

2008-12-11T14:02:00.005-05:00

...you take that first sip of the strange thick orange liquid that is your Glucose Tolerance Test and think, damn this is pretty good! It tastes like Orange Crush minus the carbonation. It was ice cold and quite tasty and even though I was given 10 minutes to finish it I had it all gone in 6. We will find out by our next appointment if I have Gestational Diabetes (pronounced like Wilfred Brimley please) and my Doctor does not fool around. If my sugar is higher than 140 I have Diabetes and that is that. There will be no further testing just a modified diet for the remainder of the pregnancy. I am hoping they don't call me prior to cookies, cake, and all the bad naughty yummy things associated with Christmas and tell me to lay off. That would be crap.

I can't believe it but we are 7 months pregnant today. AND for the first time in 7 months I am measuring SPOT ON! Not too big, NEVER too small... just right.

Unfortunately I am suffering one of the MANY common symptoms of pregnancy which is a severely sore lower back which went bye bye somewhere between last night and tonight. My sciatica is being pinched pretty hard core so I am hitting up a Chiropractor tomorrow and a massage from the lovely Marie Costa on Monday. Hopefully I will stop my bending over/waddling by next week.

A picture is coming, I promise. Just imagine a barn with legs.

Here is what is going on with Baby Benzin this week:

By this week, Baby Benzin weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese Cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of the head to its heels. Baby Benzin can blink those eyes, which now sport lashes. With the eyesight developing, the baby may be able to see the light that filters in through my womb. Baby Benzin is also developing billions of neurons in that glorious brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

I held my breath during this entire commercial...

2008-12-10T21:04:00.000-05:00

We cannot WAIT!!!

27 weeks and 4 days...

2008-12-08T19:28:00.002-05:00

This is kind of silly to be posting this late as I will be putting up another post in a few short days, but anyhoo. We are in our last week of the 2nd trimester. As of Thursday we will be in our 3rd and final trimester and the baby will be here before we know it. Here is what has been happening with the baby this past week.

This week, Baby Benzin weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with his/her legs extended. Baby is sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing its eyes, and perhaps even sucking its fingers. With more brain tissue developing, Baby Benzin's brain is very active now. While the lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if the baby were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on.

87 days to go!!

Hello my baby...

2008-12-07T12:20:00.003-05:00

This is for my dear sweet friend Lou. Enjoy!

Funny videos for the day...

2008-12-04T21:14:00.003-05:00

I went into Wilson Farms, to buy me some grub. I saw him across the way buying a turkey sub...

2008-12-02T18:24:00.005-05:00

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Silent Night, I'll Be Home For Christmas and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. These are just some of my favorite classic Christmas Tunes that I could listen to all day and night (following Thanksgiving only of course). What happened? Why do people feel the need to write NEW Christmas songs? It all started with Dear Mister Jesus. DEAR GOD! How does a child being beaten to death by her parents get us into that holiday spirit? Then we got Christmas Shoes and that HORRIBLY depressing 'Twas Was The Night Before Christmas in Iraq song. The Christmas Spirit, as taught by Charlie Brown and the rest of those adorable Peanuts Gang is as follows:

This rant does have a point.

Todd and I were on our way home when a NEW Christmas song, or at least new to us, came on the radio. We thought it was a joke. It wasn't. This ridiculous awful song is called Same Auld Lang Syne. It has to be the WORST song I have ever heard in my life. I hate to bore you with ALL of the lyrics, but you really need to see these to believe it. Enjoy!

Met my old lover in the grocery store
The snow was falling christmas eve
I stole behind her in the frozen foods
And I touched her on the sleeve

She didnt recognize the face at first
But then her eyes flew open wide
She went to hug me and she spilled her purse
And we laughed until we cried.

We took her groceries to the checkout stand
The food was totalled up and bagged
We stood there lost in our embarrassment
As the conversation dragged.

We went to have ourselves a drink or two
But couldnt find an open bar
We bought a six-pack at the liquor store
And we drank it in her car.

**Note - At this point Todd pointed out how strange it was that the GROCERY STORE and LIQUOR STORE was open, but not THE BAR???

We drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to now
And tried to reach beyond the emptiness
But neither one knew how.

She said shed married her an architect
Who kept her warm and safe and dry
She would have liked to say she loved the man
But she didnt like to lie.

I said the years had been a friend to her
And that her eyes were still as blue
But in those eyes I wasnt sure if I saw
Doubt or gratitude.

She said she saw me in the record stores
And that I must be doing well
I said the audience was heavenly
But the traveling was hell.

We drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to now
And tried to reach beyond the emptiness
But neither one knew how.

We drank a toast to innocence
We drank a toast to time
Reliving in our eloquence
Another auld lang syne...

The beer was empty and our tongues were tired
And running out of things to say
She gave a kiss to me as I got out
And I watched her drive away.

Just for a moment I was back at school
And felt that old familiar pain
And as I turned to make my way back home
The snow turned into rain --

Did you just get the chills with the love and warmth of the Christmas Spirit? Yeah, I thought so.

My living room smells like pine, and I love it...

2008-11-30T20:38:00.009-05:00

For my husband who picked out a beautiful Christmas Tree today:

"All right, listen up guys. 'Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, except... the four a$$holes coming in the rear in standard two-by-two cover formation."
Die Hard

What a gorgeous day. We (The Garvey and Battaglia Clan) drove out to East Aurora to cut down our first live Christmas Tree. It was amazing. The Tree Farm is called Field of Dreams and it was so much fun. Todd found our tree which we came to find out is a Grand Fir Tree and now it is in our living room and the smell is intoxicating.

Here are some pictures:

Todd and Lisa pulling Maeve and Adelaide.

Addy having fun (?) in the Infant Boggin'.

Maeve looking adorable.

Todd cutting down the tree.

LOOK WHAT I HAVE CREATED!!

Mike and Maeve in the Infant Boggin'!!

KTB looking tough.

Now that Thanksgiving is over, this can be posted...

2008-11-28T11:41:00.000-05:00

I posted this last year as well, and it deserves another run.

SNL Christmas Song

26 weeks and 1 day...

2008-11-28T11:21:00.003-05:00

Wow. We have 97 days to go before we meet Baby Benzin. Of course I would be ok with 80 days making this little one a February Baby, but whatever Mother Nature decides is fine with me.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week:

The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. The Baby may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. Baby Benzin is inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his or her lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when the baby is born and takes that first gulp of air. Baby Benzin is continuing to put on baby fat and weighs about 1 pound and 2/3rds and measures 14 inches from head to heel.

Baby Benzin really enjoyed his or her 1st Thanksgiving. Strangely enough, I think Cranberry Sauce was the favorite side dish for our Tiny Dancer. Todd and I are so blessed and we are looking forward to holding and cuddling our little one soon.

My husband is gorgeous and BRILLIANT!

2008-11-23T14:26:00.007-05:00

I went to see Triangles at Road Less Traveled yesterday and the show is BRILLIANT! I am going to see it again because two of Buffalo's most amazing actresses, Lisa Vitrano and Kristen Tripp-Kelley switch roles every night.

The show is spectacular. Seriously, go see it.

Kelly Meg and Bonnie are so incredible and Todd is just perfect.

I spent the entire show watching him and I couldn't help but feel so proud and excited. Hearing people react to him and clap, laugh and just be as excited as I was just made me beam. I was so thrilled that I wanted to tell everyone that the amazing man in the show was my husband and was going to be the Father of my child.

He beat me to it.

My loving and beautiful husband let everyone know in his Playbill Bio which reads, "...is in the early stages of planning a new full scale production with his wife, actress Michele Roberts."

Sigh. He makes my heart melt.

I think I am carrying a 3rd grader...

2008-11-23T11:02:00.004-05:00

25 weeks and 3 days.

I think by 9 months it will look like a teenager is crouching underneath my shirt.

Here is what is happening with Baby Benzin this week. Head to heels, Baby Benzin now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Weight — a pound and a half which is about the size of an average rutabaga. Baby Benzin is beginning to exchange that long, lean look for some baby fat. As the baby does, its wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and the baby will start to look more and more like a newborn. Baby Benzin is also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

"I hope he grows out of that face." - Todd (after seeing our virtual baby)

2008-11-21T22:49:00.002-05:00

I encourage all of you to give this a try. It is good for a laugh.

Have fun!!

Meet our virtual baby:

And I can KKKIIICCCCCK!

2008-11-21T22:23:00.003-05:00

This picture from the Broadway Musical Billy Elliott really made me laugh today. Go figure.

Dear Buffalo Burglars...

2008-11-13T11:21:00.005-05:00

Pick up a pen and fill out a job application. Although this would cause you to live a somewhat respectable life, you will be able to afford your own toys!! Just think, you won't have to break into other peoples cars parked right in front of their house and take things that we, the working folk, worked very hard to EARN. Now, in the case of you vs. me, you broke my window with a bowling ball sized rock and did not get a thing. Sorry I couldn't help you out with making a quick couple hundred which would buy you more crack or whatever it is you crazy kids are doing these days. But again just go to McDonald's, Burger King or Walmart and fill out an application and join the work force! Good luck to you, and thanks for the unnecessary aggravation.

Oh and I took your Pet Rock that you left behind for memories. It misses you. Asshole.

6 months!!!

2008-11-10T22:16:00.004-05:00

Sorry it has been so long. We haven't had time to take a baby bump picture yet, but one is coming soon. We are officially 6 months pregnant with 115 days left until we meet Baby Benzin. Princess or Junior is growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him/her at just over a pound. The baby is almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), and cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but the baby's body is filling out proportionally and will soon start to plump up. The brain is also growing quickly now, and taste buds are continuing to develop. The lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he or she hits the outside world. The skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

As for me, my uterus is now about the size of a soccer ball. JOY!! I have 1 more regular OB appointment and then it is time for the dreaded Glucose Screening. This test which will be at 28 weeks checks for gestational diabetes, a pregnancy-related high-blood-sugar condition. From what I hear, I drink an Orange Crush (syrup only) and then wait an hour for the results of how my body processes the sugar. After that we will be in our 3rd trimester and it will all be downhill from there.

Todd and I are getting more and more excited about meeting Little Miss Michele or TR Junior (Todd's nicknames). He or she is kicking and moving every which way and really loves to hear Daddy singing. To quote Judy Garland, "I've just about got it made."

What I wouldn't give to see this...

2008-11-01T15:43:00.002-05:00

Amazing.

Save the tah tahs!!

2008-10-31T08:20:00.004-05:00

So gross...

2008-10-29T19:13:00.004-05:00

Diastasis Recti 101

I was told to get into the Doctor's office today ASAP because it felt like I was having a very normal Braxton Hicks contraction for the past couple of days. Braxton Hicks can begin at 6 weeks and last your entire pregnancy. I wasn't in any kind of pain, it just felt like cement on my stomach hardened immediately when I stood up. Again, no pain at all it just felt really weird.

My OB asked where the source of the "discomfort" was and I showed him my upper belly from couple of inches below my boobs and one inch below my belly button. He lit up and said he knew what was going on. Then I got a life lesson on one of the most disgusting things I have ever heard or seen before.

Diastasis Recti or separated muscles.

Separation of the stomach muscles is very common during pregnancy, particularly during the later trimesters. During pregnancy, many women experience a separation of their stomach muscles. Known as diastasis recti, this condition occurs when the main abdominal muscles begin to pull apart. The left and right sides of this muscle separate, leaving a gap in between.

It appears that due to my Diastasis Recti, my Colon comes through the gap in my abdominal muscles (shudder) when I am extremely gassy (which is all the time) and stand up, hence the "discomfort" I have been feeling the past couple of days.

To show me how this works, my OB had me lay flat and slowly sit up as if I were doing a crunch. My friends, what appears to be the top of a roof began to appear in my abs that almost formed a perfect triangle. It was so gross. Of course, I made Todd look at it and he had the same reaction I had.

Eventually the muscles will go back to where they are supposed to after the baby is born, THANK THE LORD

Well, I must say that Baby Benzin is worth all the "ewwwwws" and shudders. I can't wait to hold our little dancer. He or she is already bringing the house down.

Awww shucks...

2008-10-28T20:45:00.002-05:00

Thank you, MEG!!! My college buddy Meg, the author behind "Lawyers Do Not Eat Their Young" is caring, wonderful and I adore her. Meg and I have known each other for at least 10 years??? WOW! She is an exceptional human being with a heart of gold, and she is carrying some super sweet twins. I love that we have reconnected and that she is my yoga buddy. Hugs and kisses to her.

The award is accompanied by a meme, which must be answered in one word responses. Here goes

1. Where is your cell phone? Charging

2. Where is your significant other? Rehearsal

3. Your hair color? Brown

4. Your mother? Spunky

5. Your father? Absent

6. Your favorite thing? Cuddles

7. Your dream last night? Forgettable

8. Your dream/goal? Happiness

9. The room you're in? Dark

10. Your hobby? Knitting

11. Your fear? Spiders

12. Where do you want to be in six years? Here

13. Where were you last night? Bed

14. What you're not? Coward

15. One of your wish list items? Health

16. Where you grew up? Grand Island (I know, I cheated)

17. The last thing you did? Grey's

18. What are you wearing? Sweats

19. Your T.V.? Off

20. Your Pets? Sleeping

21. Your computer? Dell

22. Your mood? Relaxed

23. Missing someone? Todd

24. Your car? Scion

25. Something you're not wearing? Shoes

26. Favorite store? Gap

27. Your Summer? Amazing

28. Love someone? Yep

29. Your favorite color? Black

30. When is the last time you laughed? Recently

31. When was the last time you cried? Unknown

And now...the I heart your blog goes to:

WHOEVER wants to respond. I hate assigning homework. Have fun!

21 weeks and 3 days...

2008-10-26T17:03:00.005-05:00

My very dear friend Michael Walline is a photographer who has such a knack for the art and for actor headshots. Today he took some pictures for pregnancy posterity in Forest Lawn Cemetery. They turned out so beautiful. Thanks Michael!!

Baby Benzin now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long - the length of a carrot. In other developments, Baby Benzin's eyebrows and lids are present now, and IF we are having a girl, her vagina has begun to form as well.

21 weeks 3 days down, 18 weeks 4 days to go!!

Charmagne gives me good Chi...

2008-10-20T17:28:00.002-05:00

My friend and talented colleague Charmagne sent me an e-card today that made me smile.

I adore her.

Thanks Charmagne!!

20 weeks and 3 days

2008-10-19T06:52:00.004-05:00

Since we have a bunch of out of town family members who won't see me pregnant, here is a current photo. Please, snicker quietly.

Baby Benzin baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He or she is also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bum bum and about 10 inches from head to heel - about the length of a banana. He or she is swallowing more these days, which is good practice for the digestive system. Baby Benzin is also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in the bowels, and you'll see it in the first soiled diaper.

Joy of joys. Sticky, gooey poop.

One day I will find all of this HILARIOUS!

2008-10-17T19:54:00.007-05:00

People say some really stupid crap to you when you are pregnant and these individuals think saying these things are ok. For example, these are just a taste of what I have gotten:

"You're huge!!"
"I wasn't that big when I was 3 months pregnant. I wasn't even that big when I was 7 months pregnant!"
"Your belly is enormous!"

THESE THINGS ARE NOT OK TO SAY. I don't go up to overweight people and say, "Wow you're really fat" and I certainly don't go up to older people and say, "You're really old and wrinkly!" So why do these individuals think it is ok to tell a pregnant woman how huge she is?? Todd's theory is that they know it is all baby and assume you will take their comments as such. NO. We don't. We hear what you are saying and find it insulting.

Don't get me wrong, I am extremely happy to be growing. It means my baby is doing well and thriving. I have no control over my body and the changes that are happening. I am quite aware, believe it or not, at how my quickly my belly is growing. You don't have to tell me. Next time anyone says it I am going to state an obvious fact about them and see how nice it sounds.

Time and Setting: This evening at our favorite Korean restaurant. Who: Nicest hostess in the world.
This was our conversation:

Her: "Wow, almost time huh?"
Me: "No, 4 more months."
Puzzled, horrified look comes over her face.
Her: "WOW! You look big, don't eat so much!!"

Wow. WOW WOW WOWIE WOW WOW.

People, this is not ok. Have a little couth and think before you speak.

I will post a 20 week picture tomorrow. The nicest Korean woman in the world thinks I look like this:

Are you serious??

2008-10-14T19:50:00.003-05:00

So I see an article on Yahoo that Eva Longoria gained 7 whole pounds this summer!! OH NOOO! She went from weighing 90 to 97! That must really suck. Somehow she gained 7 pounds and is still able to get her ass in a size 0. The title of the article I read was 'The "Desperate Housewife" defends her "rounder" figure, shows off curves in photos.' So I figured I would look at the picture and expected to see a ROUNDER Eva Longoria. Yeah. Ok.

THIS IS ROUNDER?? This is 7 pounds gained?? People thought she was pregnant from looking at these photos?? I quote my best friend Lou when I say, WTF??

Catch Phrase makes people funny...

2008-10-13T06:11:00.004-05:00

A bunch of us played a few rounds of Catch Phrase yesterday and I laughed so hard I was pretty sure I was going into labor. Basically, it is an electronic "hot potato" game. You have a word or phrase that you have to get your team to say without saying any words in the actual answer AND you need to get it done before the buzzer goes off. Hilarity ensues:

Me: Little Italian guy in Goodfella's. (I said Goodfellow's, but the buzzer was about to go off, give me a break.)
Susan: Joe Pesci.
Me: Last name?
Susan: Pesci.
Me: Not a fog but a watery light...
Chris: Mist.
Me: Put it together.
Doug: Pesci-mist??
Kristy: Pessimist?
Me: MORE!
Doug: Pessimistic?
Amazing.

Dave: When you are addicted to something you are an?

Marc: Addict.

Dave: Right.

Marc: (thinking he just said the word) DAVE!!

Dave: No, no. When you are addicted to brown stuff.

Marc: Chocoholic?

Dave: YES!

Brown stuff?? Oh my goodness. I just about lost my mind.

Me: Jesus's Father?
Susan: God.
Me: Not whole but...
Doug: Half.
Me: Marc thought he had this infection?
Doug: MRSA.
Me: Put it together!
All: God half MRSA?
Kristy: God Have Mercy!

Almost peed.

19 weeks!!!

2008-10-09T06:34:00.003-05:00

We are just one week away from being at the half-way mark. Todd and I decided to start documenting the belly growth starting next week, so there will be embarassing photos to come.

According to our weekly "How your baby's growing" emails:

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom about the size of a large heirloom tomato (shown below next to a quarter). His/Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. His/Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on his/her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on his/her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

Yummy. Tomato, Vernix Caseosa and Pickling.

Baby Benzin Update!!!

2008-10-02T14:48:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone!! Todd and I just got home from our 18 week ultrasound and everything looks wonderful. Baby Benzin is healthy and adorable and kicking like a superfreak! Although the technician waited as long as she could, Baby Benzin was NOT cooperating and did not turn on his or her back so we have no profile images to share this time. However, here are some of the shots the technician was able to capture. Enjoy!

Face:

Laying on his or her stomach:
Face with body:

Hey George, lay off...

2008-10-01T15:29:00.000-05:00

Thank you Lisa...

2008-09-27T10:10:00.003-05:00

My friend Lisa Ludwig told me about this video from the movie Step Brothers. It did not disappoint. Enjoy!!

Meredith can suck it...

2008-09-26T05:56:00.001-05:00

For those of you who watch Grey's Anatomy I am sure you feel the same way I do. That icicle should have impaled Meredith. She needs to just SHUT UPPPPPP!

That is all.

Care to guess??

2008-09-18T08:25:00.002-05:00

Check out the link to the right (for ExpectNet) and guess away!

You have 5 months, so no rush.

HEY! I know that woman!

2008-09-16T14:58:00.003-05:00

I am on the Pantene Website for my hairy donation.

Go to this site and do a search (in the lower right hand corner) for 'Michele' and I am 20 pictures in.

Good times.

**See post below for some photos!!**

Today is the day...

2008-09-15T07:23:00.005-05:00

I figure if I blog about what is about to happen I cannot chicken out. 8 inches of my hair is being donated today to Pantene's Beautiful Lengths Campaign. If you have super long hair and are looking to cut it please check out their website here.

I have been growing my hair for 2 years now. It started when Doug asked me to keep it long for Beyond the Rainbow (if I were to be cast, which I was) and it just kept going from there.

The weird thing is, I am really not fond of my hair this long. It is annoying and I am just always putting it up into a ponytail because there is nothing else to do with it. However, that doesn't make it any less hard to part with. What does make it easier is the fact that this Pantene Campaign is a wonderful cause. For those of you who are not familiar, it is for women stricken with cancer and who will possibly lose their hair due to the chemo.

I found out on the website that it takes 6 ponytails to make one wig so I encourage all you long haired beauties to get out there and cry your way through a hair cut. I am sure I will.

***PICTURES***

Before the cut:

Measuring the Hair:

Angel is enjoying cutting that sucker off:

My 9 inches of hair:

Proud Donation:

Best Post Secret ever, and yeah... true. :)

2008-09-08T09:57:00.003-05:00

The ultimate in "Pregnancy Brain"

2008-09-07T13:06:00.002-05:00

I know that my pregnancy has all I have been blogging about lately and for the 4 of you that read my blog, I apologize but this story HAS to be told.

While Todd was enjoying the Bills game and sorting through the mail, he asked me why I opened Lisa's Chase Credit Card statement. I have 2 Chase Credit Cards so I must have assumed it was mine and opened it. I remember looking at my online banking and seeing that the last payment made per the statement was not listed on my account and that the account number didn't match ANYTHING I had on either of my Chase Credit Cards. That didn't stop me. My brain reasoned that the account number may have changed and I just never noticed and the payment must not have posted yet. Not sure how the Credit Company would have posted my payments with a different account number, but it didn't even cross my jumbled brain at the time. As I am trying to figure out how I didn't see that my name had changed to Lisa while I opened it, it dawned on me.

I paid the bill.

I opened my neighbors mail and scheduled a payment online to have it paid. Seriously??

I would love to have my brain back at some point. I bet the Garvey's love my pregnancy brain. If I were them I would be throwing their bills in my mailbox from now on.

And it is settled...

2008-09-03T06:27:00.003-05:00

I have already been looking at cute little outfits for this baby to wear, and Gap Baby seems to be my favorite location thus far. Todd and I were discussing how Baby Benzin will be 7 months old when Halloween rolls around which is PERFECT for Mommy and Daddy to steal candy from the baby. We were throwing around Star Wars Characters HE could dress up as, or Disney Princesses SHE could dress up as but today, I saw it. THE COSTUME of all CUTE costumes. Of course it is Disney Themed, but it just melted my heart. Hopefully, Todd will go for it. Enjoy.

Yeah, pretty much...

2008-08-25T06:11:00.004-05:00

PS - My apologies to my friends and family, but try to be patient. An internal monologue of how hormonal I am would really be more beneficial.

Oh, and for my patient and loving husband...

"Life is a flame that is always burning itself out, but it catches fire again every time a child is born." George Bernard Shaw

2008-08-21T14:20:00.008-05:00

In case you didn't know, Todd and I are going to have a baby!! I haven't really done any posting about this until now, but today we got our first glimpse at our precious baby. Baby Benzin was dancing everywhere and was really giving the technician a hard time, but she was eventually able to get some great photos. As for the technical things, there is definitely only one (THANK YOU LORD) and the baby has a beautiful heart beat of 178 bpm.

We couldn't be happier and more excited.

The baby is SINGING!!

Reason No. 9,852 that I LOVE DisneyWorld. Star Wars Dance Off!!

2008-08-13T07:14:00.001-05:00

Cannot WAIT!

2008-08-11T21:21:00.004-05:00

I did this show in college and I am really looking forward to seeing the movie. I believe my character is being played by Bette Midler (FABULOUS)!!

Is the end of this trailer a sign of things to come?

Happy birthday...

2008-07-27T10:08:00.000-05:00

You shall go out with joy and be led forth in peace. The mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

Isaiah 55:12

I miss you.

Pit Bullshit

2008-07-23T20:28:00.002-05:00

A little bit ago I was in my apartment when I heard a woman screaming bloody murder outside the house. I went to the window and didn't see anything other than a man running with a 2x4 so I ran downstairs without shoes, without a phone and had absolutely no idea what I would do once I got down there. A pit bull had nabbed a neighborhood cat and was ripping him to shreds. The man with the loaded wood was beating the dog pretty fiercely but that dog couldn't care less, it was going to town on that cat. Gary, the cat, eventually got free and ran into our neighbors backyard where it hid under a bush. The woman and dog were instructed to wait until Animal Control and the SPCA got there which she did. In all fairness to her, the dog was on a leash and she was doing everything she could to get that dog away from the cat, but that dog was obviously hungry for pus... well, you get the idea.

Animal Control came and questioned the woman and **poof** they were allowed to go. Um, hello?? The dog has no self control and honestly, that could have been a child. SPCA came but the cat ran away so we were pretty sure it would either find a nice place to die or lick his wounds and come home. He eventually found his way back to Brantford. He has been seen roaming the neighborhood which I think is insane, but whatever.

Today I see this article online:

JACKSON, Miss. — Jackson police are investigating the mauling death of a 3-year-old boy by a pit bull. The child died Tuesday night from the attack by the chained animal in south Jackson, police said. The boy, whom police are not identifying, was taken to the University of Mississippi Medical Center where he died. No one else was injured. The dog, which was shot when it attacked animal control officers, survived and will be evaluated, Sgt. Jeffery Scott, a police spokesman, said.

It will be evaluated??? Are you kidding? KILL IT! It is bad enough to watch a cat being mauled by a pit bull, but a child getting mauled and killed? There isn't a 2x4 big enough.

No. 1 movie that makes me cry...

2008-07-16T07:07:00.001-05:00

Say what???

2008-06-29T08:53:00.003-05:00

I just found out that my Mother reads my blog! She is one of the 2 people that read it (the other being Todd) and I couldn't be prouder.

Welcome to my blog Mom! Nice to have you here!

Love,

Michele

Say hello to my little friend...

2008-06-28T12:43:00.002-05:00

This is our new camera, the Nikon D80. I have a feeling him and I are going to be really great friends. I have to learn how to use him first, but I have faith that we will genuinely learn to love each other someday.

Looking forward to our first date Nikon.

Love,

Michele

Frisbeetarianism...

2008-06-23T06:21:00.002-05:00

is the belief that when you die, your soul goes up on the roof and gets stuck.

George Carlin
May 12, 1937 - June 22, 2008

Thought for the day, courtesy of The Producers

2008-06-11T18:59:00.004-05:00

"I've spent my entire life in the theater. I was a protege of the great Boris Tomaschevski. He taught me everything I know.I'll never forget, he turned to me on his deathbed and said, 'Maxella, alle menschen muss zu machen, jeden tug a gentzen pippy kachen!'

"What does that mean?"

"Who knows? I don't speak Yiddish. Strangely enough, neither did he. But in my heart I knew what he was saying. He was saying, when you're down and out, and everybody thinks you're finished, that's the time to stand up on your two feet and shout, 'Who do you have to fuck to get a break in this town?!'

Dear Iron Man, I love you.

2008-05-03T09:46:00.003-05:00

Todd and I saw Iron Man last night and let me just say this... BEST MOVIE EVER!!! Robert Downey, Jr. is amazing in it, and Stan Lee's cameo is priceless. Here is the preview:

For those of you going to see it, STAY FOR A CLIP at the end of the credits. All of you Marvel geeks, like my husband, will be as giddy as a school girl/boy. I had to ask what the hell that meant, but from what Todd tells me, it sounds pretty damn cool.

Previews included The Incredible Hulk with Edward Norton and Liv Tyler, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull with Harrison Ford, Karen Allen and Cate Blanchett, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian with the original Narnia kids, Liam Neeson, Tilda Swinton and Warwick Davis, and The Dark Knight with Christian Bale, the late Heath Ledger, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Gary Oldman and Michael Caine.

I am really looking forward to one hell of a summer season. We may have to hit 1 movie a week, sometimes 2 to see everything I want to see. But for now, run do NOT walk to see Iron Man. You most definitely will not be disappointed.

For Wally

2008-04-08T06:34:00.002-05:00

An email from my buddy Michael:

Hi everyone- My nephew Tommy's a pretty cool kid- he's got a big brain and an even bigger heart. His best friend Jake's mom has Multiple Sclerosis, and he is supporting her this year (again!) by doing the National MS Society Walk. This has been a difficult year for both Tommy's family and Jake's family- both were involved in the brush fires of San Diego and both nearly lost everything (the press conference President Bush did in San Diego- the one with the helicopter on someone's front lawn? That was my sister's front yard!). So, even through that adversity Tommy is helping out by doing the MS walk to support Jake's mom. For a 13 year old- that's pretty great. Am I pulling at your heart strings a bit? Yup! I hope it will work! Tommy has pledged to get $500 in donations for his part in the walk, and I am asking all of my friends to help. Go to the page linked below to give $1, $5, $20... whatever you can. Let's help bring MS to an end! If you have a blog and would like to put this link up, I'd really appreciate it. If we can get 500 people to donate $1 each, he'll reach his goal! If you donate, don't forget to sign the honor roll so Tommy knows who helped him out. Thanks very much!

Bikram Yoga

2008-03-28T16:51:00.016-05:00

"Bikram Yoga is is a series of 26 postures conducted over 90 minutes, beginning with one warming up breathing exercise, progressing through 24 postures and finishing with one toxin eliminating breathing posture. This series of postures systematically and scientifically works through the entire body. Each posture is completed twice, each leads on from the next, preparing the body. The room is mirrored to allow for greater body awareness and to refine and deepen our postures with easy self-correction. Classes are held in a heated room. The warm room allows for greater flexibility, it minimises muscle strain, lactic acid build up and reduces the chance of injury, allows for greater cleansing of the body and helps build tremendous stamina and endurance."

I decided to start doing yoga not too long ago when I noticed that a Bikram Yoga studio opened very near to my house. My lower back has become an issue, and I needed to start doing something to strengthen it and also prolong the inevitable back surgery. I did some research and this yoga option seemed to be perfect. I signed up for 2 weeks, and had my first lesson today. I understand why they tell you NOT to eat before class. I could have thrown up so easily because of that humidity. The room was set to 105 degrees. Anyway, the first exercise was easy. Pranayama - standing deep breathing.

No problem.

The second exercise was tougher, but still fairly simple. My lower back, or my hamstrings wouldn't quite allow me to go as deep as some of the other women, but I still did pretty good.

Pada Hastasana - Hands to feet pose. Not too bad.

Let's skip ahead, shall we??

I can say with complete confidence, that while I was not as nimble as some of the older, more experienced ladies in the class, I did each of those moves as best as I can. I sweat my ass off, and certainly felt invigorated and excited after class was over. My lower back did not hurt one bit. In fact, it felt great. Let's see if I can get my forehead down to the ground and a leg wrapped around my head. Todd, try not to get your hopes up. ;)

My favorite pose of the morning was Savasana - corpse pose. I did that one the best.

The shiny guy always worries!

2008-03-14T16:39:00.002-05:00

Seeing stars...

2008-02-18T23:44:00.002-05:00

Elizabeth Laidlaw who was recently in the ICTC's A Servant of Two Masters with Todd, owns and operates a restaurant in Chicago with her TALENTED Chef husband Gilbert Langlois. We all decided to go and check it out on our recent trip to the Windy City.

IT WAS AMAZING. I am not even sure where to begin!! I had the Bouillabaisse which was TO DIE FOR, Todd had the Fried Chicken with mashed potatoes and sausage gravy, Hangar Steak, I mean I could go on and on.

Check out the menu and the website here. If you are in the area and feel the need to splurge... RUN, don't walk to the Chalkboard! You will not be disappointed.

Oh...

And while we were there, Mystique and her husband Vern Tessio were sat right next to us. God I love Chicago.

Photo Survey

2008-01-30T16:54:00.000-05:00

1. The age you will be on your next birthday:

2. A place you’d like to travel:

3. Your favorite object:

5. Your favorite food:

6. Your favorite animal(s):

7. Your favorite color:

8. The town in which you were born:

9. The town in which you live:

10. Name of Past Pet:

11. Relationship status:

12. The first name of someone you love:

13. Your middle name:

14. Your last name:

15. A bad habit of yours:

16. Your first job:

17. Your grandmother’s name:

18. Your favorite type of book:

19. One of your nicknames:

20. Favorite TV show: