If you consider a family of four a brood...this is the place...
Friday, December 12, 2008
A day full of Christmas
It's coming on fast this holiday called Christmas and we are in the full swing of things from Christmas parties to cookie decorating.
Holden was so very excited to see Santa today. Of course, Santa was on Filipino time and so we had to waste an hour shopping around waiting for him. Holden entertained the elves and fairies with various Tagalog songs and phrases guaranteeing his slot as the first one in line and extra time with the big man in red. Nate calls him "the nation builder" as he is always creating new relationships. It gets him ahead...extra scoops of ice cream, larger cotton candy bundles, etc. He is onto something! Finnley slept right through Santa, but Holden was sure to order some toys up for him too.
Holden was so very excited to see Santa today. Of course, Santa was on Filipino time and so we had to waste an hour shopping around waiting for him. Holden entertained the elves and fairies with various Tagalog songs and phrases guaranteeing his slot as the first one in line and extra time with the big man in red. Nate calls him "the nation builder" as he is always creating new relationships. It gets him ahead...extra scoops of ice cream, larger cotton candy bundles, etc. He is onto something! Finnley slept right through Santa, but Holden was sure to order some toys up for him too.
We also went back to the cake shop to decorate a gingerbread house. You really can't beat having the gingerbread already baked, cut and made ready to decorate. Complete with frosting bottles and sprinkles and accessories. We did our part making a mess and it turned out pretty darn cute.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Adjusting
Adjusting is what we are doing here in the May household. Adjusting to a bed full of 8 arms and 8 legs. One 5 year old who sleeps like a starfish, one snoring daddy, one nursing mommy and one little bundle of grunts and groans. It's a beautiful thing NOW but the first couple of days were a steep learning curve. If there had been a camera on us the first night home it would have been an instant hit comedy routine. I am happy to say Finnley has blessed us by sleeping 4 to 5 hours straight at night. Oh happy day.
We are also adjusting to Nama (Nate's mom) being gone. She was here for 10 days and was such a help making sure Holden felt extra loved during this big transition. He hauled her all over Manila from school to the pool to the aquarium and movie theatre and everywhere in between. The whole family enjoyed time at the bazaar shopping up a storm and a trip up to the Taal volcano in Tagaytay for a restful "Christmas" lunch.
Decorating cookies at the cake shop.
Tagaytay
Out to lunch (Holden loves pushing the stroller and I think Finnley may like the roller coaster ride too)
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
How it all went down!
Warning: there are c-section photos below so if you have a problem with that, don't look! :)
November 27: Thanksgiving night here in Manila we had a lovely dinner with friends and family. Holden was insistent that he get the turkey leg and loved it. We headed over to Makati Medical to check in before dessert was served. For the Philippines it was probably the fastest most efficient process we have ever experienced! They took us up to our room which happened to have no windows, stained carpet (no way is carpet sanitary in the tropics), white vinyl lawn furniture, and lovely bamboo wall paper. HA! Don't mess with a pregnant woman who is going to spend 4 days in the hospital there was no wayI was staying in that room for four days. No way I tell you, I would have decided to keep Finnley inside for a few more days until another room came available. In tears, I asked for another room and luckily someone was checking out that night from another room across the hall. We happily headed back to Thanksgiving and then home to finish packing for the next morning.
November 28: You know after a big meal (like Thanksgiving) you have a tendency to wake up STARVING? Well at 4am that was me, famished but unable to eat or drink anything due to the surgery. We headed to the hospital at 6am. Nate was nice enough to sneak a granola bar into the room and eat it right in front of me. Thanks dear, I'll remember that forever. By 6:30 they were taking me down to labor and delivery for an IV and epidural and when Nate walked in the door in his scrubs they were already cutting away. At 7:06 Finnley Roarke had arrived screaming the whole way out.
The very proud new big brother.
He's a binkie baby from the start
Hands down the best ob in Manila.
Our new family of four!
All in, it was a shockingly easy and good experience which we know are few and far between in Manila! There were a few funny moments, those are to follow soon...
November 27: Thanksgiving night here in Manila we had a lovely dinner with friends and family. Holden was insistent that he get the turkey leg and loved it. We headed over to Makati Medical to check in before dessert was served. For the Philippines it was probably the fastest most efficient process we have ever experienced! They took us up to our room which happened to have no windows, stained carpet (no way is carpet sanitary in the tropics), white vinyl lawn furniture, and lovely bamboo wall paper. HA! Don't mess with a pregnant woman who is going to spend 4 days in the hospital there was no wayI was staying in that room for four days. No way I tell you, I would have decided to keep Finnley inside for a few more days until another room came available. In tears, I asked for another room and luckily someone was checking out that night from another room across the hall. We happily headed back to Thanksgiving and then home to finish packing for the next morning.
November 28: You know after a big meal (like Thanksgiving) you have a tendency to wake up STARVING? Well at 4am that was me, famished but unable to eat or drink anything due to the surgery. We headed to the hospital at 6am. Nate was nice enough to sneak a granola bar into the room and eat it right in front of me. Thanks dear, I'll remember that forever. By 6:30 they were taking me down to labor and delivery for an IV and epidural and when Nate walked in the door in his scrubs they were already cutting away. At 7:06 Finnley Roarke had arrived screaming the whole way out.
The very proud new big brother.
He's a binkie baby from the start
Hands down the best ob in Manila.
Our new family of four!
All in, it was a shockingly easy and good experience which we know are few and far between in Manila! There were a few funny moments, those are to follow soon...
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
7 hours
It's hard to believe but it's true! In under 8 hours we will have something small soft and pink to snuggle up in this basket! We had our Thanksgiving feast, checked into the hospital(more to come on that later) and are now just making last minute preparations before we head back tomorrow morning. Stay tuned...
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Thoughtful
I have been very thoughtful lately.
My mind is full of thoughts about aging, about becoming a mommy and having a newborn around again. Thoughts about the many changes our little family has been through since its start in 2003 and the changes it is about to go through.
It is so hard to even remember life BEFORE the way it is now. Life before Nate, before Holden, before the Philippines and I am sure that in no time it will be hard to remember life before Finnley. It's so strange to think that we have lived here for exactly 2 years now. In so many ways it feels as if we have been here a lifetime already. So long, in fact, that it is home now. Oh, don't be confused I still long for the WEST but more so just the conveniences of it.
I remember so vividly the moment we landed in Manila. I remember looking out the window of the plane as we descended at the shacks and shanties, the lush green tropics, the bay and feeling the heat on the window. I remember stepping off the plane and being consumed by the thick humid air and the distinct smell of non-1st world country. I remember the car ride to the hotel. The insane traffic. The poverty. The complete and utter feeling of dread. I couldn't stop the "what were we thinking?" feeling. BUT! I also remember feeling a challenge, an excitement and a newness. I remember being comforted knowing that as long as I had my little family together it was all going to be ok and that we could overcome anything.
I wonder if Holden will remember being an only child. I'm not sure he will and that in a way brings me to my knees in tears. He has been our entire world for 5 years and I am sad to think that these moments we have had together (just the 3 of us) will not be with him forever. The past couple of weeks have been knowing exchanges between Nate and I. Glances that we both realize our time left with just one child is limited. We are drawing near to the time where life will again shift and change.
We are good with change. It is good and exciting and we have always welcomed the big transitions in life with zeal. We couldn't be more ready and thrilled to welcome Finnley into our lives. But change is change and once you spread your wings it is kind of hard to fit them back in the nest again.
My mind is full of thoughts about aging, about becoming a mommy and having a newborn around again. Thoughts about the many changes our little family has been through since its start in 2003 and the changes it is about to go through.
It is so hard to even remember life BEFORE the way it is now. Life before Nate, before Holden, before the Philippines and I am sure that in no time it will be hard to remember life before Finnley. It's so strange to think that we have lived here for exactly 2 years now. In so many ways it feels as if we have been here a lifetime already. So long, in fact, that it is home now. Oh, don't be confused I still long for the WEST but more so just the conveniences of it.
I remember so vividly the moment we landed in Manila. I remember looking out the window of the plane as we descended at the shacks and shanties, the lush green tropics, the bay and feeling the heat on the window. I remember stepping off the plane and being consumed by the thick humid air and the distinct smell of non-1st world country. I remember the car ride to the hotel. The insane traffic. The poverty. The complete and utter feeling of dread. I couldn't stop the "what were we thinking?" feeling. BUT! I also remember feeling a challenge, an excitement and a newness. I remember being comforted knowing that as long as I had my little family together it was all going to be ok and that we could overcome anything.
I wonder if Holden will remember being an only child. I'm not sure he will and that in a way brings me to my knees in tears. He has been our entire world for 5 years and I am sad to think that these moments we have had together (just the 3 of us) will not be with him forever. The past couple of weeks have been knowing exchanges between Nate and I. Glances that we both realize our time left with just one child is limited. We are drawing near to the time where life will again shift and change.
We are good with change. It is good and exciting and we have always welcomed the big transitions in life with zeal. We couldn't be more ready and thrilled to welcome Finnley into our lives. But change is change and once you spread your wings it is kind of hard to fit them back in the nest again.
Thoughts on turning 30
It's been a long time coming.
Did you know that on my 28th birthday we landed in the Philippines and began this somewhat ridiculous and always adventurous life abroad?
Did you know that on my 28th birthday we landed in the Philippines and began this somewhat ridiculous and always adventurous life abroad?
On my 29th birthday I was was lucky enough to be on the Great Wall of China which is still to date the most amazing place I have ever been.
I had expected something as spectacular and unique on my big 30th, but instead I am pregnant. VERY pregnant and I can say this is as amazing as it can get, the miracle of life.
On the way to school this morning.
Holden: "Mom, is your birthday today or tomorrow?"
Me: "It's tomorrow. Do you know how old Mommy is going to be tomorrow?"
Holden: "Um, 16?"
Me: beaming, "Nope."
Holden: "1600?"
Me: "Uh...nope. I will be 30!"
Holden: "Huh, is 30 older than 100?"
Me: "No Holden, 30 is much much less than 100."
Ah...so here I stand on the cusp of 30 welcoming it w ith open arms!
This is just one of the ways I celebrated 30. Nothing better than good food and kind and thoughtful friends!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Uh Oh
The other night Holden had a choice. Choices are hard because I say it's either one or the other and he hears both. He had 30 minutes before bedtime and he could finish watching a movie he had started earlier in the day OR he could read three books before bed. This is usually a hard choice for him because hello what kid is going to turn down TV but he also loves to read books. He chose the movie and 30 minutes later he traipses into the bedroom with books. Of course I refused. He insisted I told him we could do both (ha!) and continued to argue with me about it. Eventually it came to this.
"You're ruining my life...silence...time passes...Dad!" Poor Dad who hadn't opened his mouth or joined the discussion or even looked up from his computer as the conversation took place. Ah this kid is smart, he knows better than to offend the Mama.
"You're ruining my life...silence...time passes...Dad!" Poor Dad who hadn't opened his mouth or joined the discussion or even looked up from his computer as the conversation took place. Ah this kid is smart, he knows better than to offend the Mama.
The LAST
On Tuesday we had our last doctor's appointment before D-DAY. Baby is doing well, not dropped nor engaged but that is why I am having a c-section so everything is going as planned.
He is still a fierce kicker. The belly button is officially "popped" and the waddle is on! Secretly I am scared my water is going to break while I am out and our driver is overly cautious as he hits the bumps and ruts throughout the streets of Manila. I think he would have a heart attack if I went into labor.
Head size: on target. Stomach: 1 week ahead of schedule. Femur bone: 4 weeks ahead (not my genes!) Estimate weight: 7lbs.
He is still a fierce kicker. The belly button is officially "popped" and the waddle is on! Secretly I am scared my water is going to break while I am out and our driver is overly cautious as he hits the bumps and ruts throughout the streets of Manila. I think he would have a heart attack if I went into labor.
Head size: on target. Stomach: 1 week ahead of schedule. Femur bone: 4 weeks ahead (not my genes!) Estimate weight: 7lbs.
Baby Love
The Fab hosts; Camilla, Kathy, me, Marisa and Vickie*
*who rocks for more than one reason but REALLY because she left her aircon on full blast the ENTIRE time for this baking mommy! :)
I have the most amazing friends...really. Lucky Deuce had his third baby shower last week and it was full of fun; from the therapist they brought in to massage me the entire time to the great gifts, food and laughs! Everyone took part in a progressive story for little May where they could only see the paragraph directly above what they were writing. It took many twists and turns and while some parts were more serious and others were hilarious it was all very fitting and I am touched by how well these women know us! Each paragraph is written by a different person.
Finnley Roarke’s Baby Shower Story
November 10, 2008
There once was a mommy named Melissa, a daddy, Nate, and a big brother, Holden living a happy life in a most ridiculous country…
Where Holden brought in the family income by modeling, Melissa spent the money at greenhills and Nate wears bow ties. Where will Finnley fit in…?
Finnley will go to Macy’s for all of his attire as he will be a clean cut handsome young man, much like his beautiful older brother. However, in order to follow in his older brother’s footsteps there are three fashion rules from which he should NEVER deviate:
1) Never grow a beard like his dad once did
2) Pray you have mums hairline
3) Always wear a pink shirt!
If these rules are followed you will guarantee a fashionable life and therefore always be a big hit with the ladies!
Finnley is a name all will remember! You will stand out in the crowd, everyone wanting to flock to you…how lucky you are that your parents love you so!
They were excited to hear that you were on your way, and even more excited for the arrival day.
They wish you only the best, will love you from the East to the West. You will have a great big brother, father and mother. Fun loving family how lucky can you be a life of adventure, happiness and joy.
Never needing any love because your brother will provide you with joy and wisdom that only an older brother can give. Your mom and pop will give you a lifetime of happiness and security for you to become a very wise young man.
As a young man, I am sure your Manila experiences will give you the patience every mother appreciates. On a trip to Utah…
You will really start to miss all of the Starbucks but you will get a chance to bond with your family and learn from the love of your mom and dad have for one another. You will wrestle with your brother and realize as an adult how much you miss those silly little things. As you travel the world stay close with your family for they love you very much!
They will also be the only people in the world who will bail you out of jail when you call them to collect you from a prison in Goa. Seriously, didn’t your parents teach you anything? You should never ever, ever accept a package from a girl you meet on the beach in Goa, India. No matter how cute she is. EVER.
November 10, 2008
There once was a mommy named Melissa, a daddy, Nate, and a big brother, Holden living a happy life in a most ridiculous country…
Where Holden brought in the family income by modeling, Melissa spent the money at greenhills and Nate wears bow ties. Where will Finnley fit in…?
Finnley will go to Macy’s for all of his attire as he will be a clean cut handsome young man, much like his beautiful older brother. However, in order to follow in his older brother’s footsteps there are three fashion rules from which he should NEVER deviate:
1) Never grow a beard like his dad once did
2) Pray you have mums hairline
3) Always wear a pink shirt!
If these rules are followed you will guarantee a fashionable life and therefore always be a big hit with the ladies!
Finnley is a name all will remember! You will stand out in the crowd, everyone wanting to flock to you…how lucky you are that your parents love you so!
They were excited to hear that you were on your way, and even more excited for the arrival day.
They wish you only the best, will love you from the East to the West. You will have a great big brother, father and mother. Fun loving family how lucky can you be a life of adventure, happiness and joy.
Never needing any love because your brother will provide you with joy and wisdom that only an older brother can give. Your mom and pop will give you a lifetime of happiness and security for you to become a very wise young man.
As a young man, I am sure your Manila experiences will give you the patience every mother appreciates. On a trip to Utah…
You will really start to miss all of the Starbucks but you will get a chance to bond with your family and learn from the love of your mom and dad have for one another. You will wrestle with your brother and realize as an adult how much you miss those silly little things. As you travel the world stay close with your family for they love you very much!
They will also be the only people in the world who will bail you out of jail when you call them to collect you from a prison in Goa. Seriously, didn’t your parents teach you anything? You should never ever, ever accept a package from a girl you meet on the beach in Goa, India. No matter how cute she is. EVER.
That’s why you should only go on five star holidays; you know, the type where you start each day with champagne, strawberries, a bubble bath , a fluffy gown and views of the Seine-don’t you just love Paris?
Paris, as opposed to Puerta Gallera, you know the Christmas vacation from hell! Mosquitoes, rain and pretty much nothing else!
As the little family named May continued on their adventures in Manila, they found they had discovered the best souvenir of all…
A googley eyed baby!!! And they lived happily ever after. The End!
Paris, as opposed to Puerta Gallera, you know the Christmas vacation from hell! Mosquitoes, rain and pretty much nothing else!
As the little family named May continued on their adventures in Manila, they found they had discovered the best souvenir of all…
A googley eyed baby!!! And they lived happily ever after. The End!
Photos and stories from 2nd baby shower coming when I get the photos forwarded to me! hint hint!
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
2 minutes of fun
Who knew that 2 minutes of horse racing could lead to such a great day. We went to the Melbourne Cup today and had a lovely time with loads of ladies in hats and pretties! The race was over in a matter of moments and not one horse that Nate bet on placed but really, where would the fun in winning be? I decided to go with a bright colored "teaser" rather than a hat...I think it offsets the HUGE Buddha belly don't you think? haha
Monday, November 03, 2008
More Holdenisms
From the moment he could put it into words Holden has told us about his dreams. They are usually quite vivid in his recollection of them and we regularly talk about them. A couple of weeks ago he was really upset with Nate the entire day because in his dream he had been captured by a giant crab and "Daddy didn't even save me!"
The other morning he woke up and said, "I sure wish God would send some good dreams my way."
And here is Holden singing a native Tagalog song. Don't expect to understand a bit of it...unless you are Filipino or speak Tagalog but it's cute all the same!
Money Laundering
Nate learned a new definition of money laundering this week when Lina, the helper who does our laundry brought him his dripping wet wallet full of business receipts, cash and credit cards. He stunned us all with his calmness over the whole situation. It must be a new level of zen he has come to accept after living here with all of its hassles and moments or maybe it is just the calm before the storm....watch out!
Luckily "the girls" as we call the staff of 3 that keep our household "running?" were able to unfold and dry out all the receipts which still had ink on them and miraculously the cards have been used they still work. The wallet on the other hand is a lost cause, leather doesn't wash up so well.
C'est la vie, our new motto in life. I am getting it framed and hung.
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