The Franken family diary...........

Paddling

2010-06-10T10:14:00.004+02:00

I can't believe i nearly forgot to share these pics with you all!

A few weeks back, Frank decided to take Connor on his first paddling experience. Connor was of course beyond excited about it. We took him to the lagoon here in Toti and the boys had an absolute blast. Frank reckons Connor's 'a natural' at paddling and Connor can't wait to go again.

Just look at these pics:

Good fun!!!

30 Wks and growing......

2010-06-10T10:08:00.003+02:00

This week marks the thirtieth week of pregnancy! Wow i have grown big time as you can see in the pics below.

I am feeling relatively good except for the ongoing tiredness! To be honest I am battling a bit to entertain Connor as I feel I just don't have the energy, but try my best none the less.

So this means only 8 more weeks to go! I am excited to meet the new addition, but wonder how I will cope with my two boys once he arrives. I guess it's normal to feel like this and I guess you just make it work - well I sure hope so anyways.

I have a doc appointment next week, so will keep you posted on our progress.

TFL

27 Wks Update

2010-05-21T09:21:00.001+02:00

All went very well with our appointment yesterday.

Little dude is weighing in at 940grms He was very busy and all his measurements were excellent! We saw his little chest cavity moving up and down which shows he is practising breathing for when he's born - too cute man!

They detected a bit of blood in my urine so will be sending it away for analysis. Doc says it could be a bladder infection but because I had the fever the day before he felt I had to go on an anti biotic (yes again ) to clear up anything until we get the urine results back. Luckily it's not too serious & I am sort of happy to be back on the anti biotic as my chest is starting up again!

Otherwise a great appointment.

And here's my 26wks pics:

Connor's first catch

2010-05-03T13:26:00.003+02:00

The day had to eventually come & our big boy eventually caught his own fish! He was so proud that he demanded pics and wanted to carry the poor thing around a bit! Yes it's only a rock fish but it's still his first catch!

Well done my boy, we are very very proud of you :)

TFR

Things

2010-05-03T10:52:00.005+02:00

Well we are at 25 weeks today & growing very very rapidly! So rapidly that I have decided that only healthy fruit etc is going to pass these lips from today onwards!

Here's some pics taken yesterday:

(Had to take it in mirror as Frank's not here)

And Connor took this well 'interesting' picture from the bottom!!

Connor with his baby in belly :)

Last week I had my sister come and visit with her three boys! Wow what a handful that was, 4 boys to entertain every day, but it was awesome and am already missing them all! Connor had an absolute blast with his cousins & I actually just kept him off school for the week to play with them. Our days were mostly spent on the beach, but also had shopping etc to do!

Here's some of the pics:

TFR

Fishing fishing fishing

2010-04-22T14:38:00.003+02:00

We had Frank's club competition over the weekend & I am pleased to announce that he came second in the comp, which wins us a trip to Mozambique! Although it will only be once baby is born (because of malaria) I am so excited as it's somewhere I have always wanted to see!!!

Connor of course loved every minute of it and jumped in on the action of taking pics! Secretly he thinks all the prizes and fish caught are for him - sweeti pie.

Here's some of the pics:

23 Wks

2010-04-22T14:16:00.005+02:00

Well i am excited to say we had our gynae appointment today at 23.4 wks!

It was so awesome as we got to see little dude opening and closing his mouth (drinking amniotic fluid) and even saw a glimpse of his little tongue! So precious!! He is weighing around 670 grams now & seems to have long legs :)

The funniest thing is he is lying in there with his little ankles crossed which is something Connor did and still does when he sleeps. And of course it goes without saying that Frank does the same thing when he's sleeping!!

I have put on a whopping 5kg since my last visit, which came as a bit of a shock (until I remembered all the creme easter eggs i have been eating) but figure there's no good stressing about it now, will have to just gym extra hard once our little bundle arrives.

I am going for my 4d scan on the 3rd of June which I can't wait for & our next gynae appointment is on the 20th May!

Here's some of the latest hippo pics:

20 Wks

2010-04-08T16:07:00.003+02:00

I am feeling lots of movement now, especially in the evening and am loving every minute of it! It really helps to build a bond once you feel the little life moving inside of you!

On a downer, I have been hit with bronchitis and an ear infection and am really battling to breathe a the moment. Doc put me on some anti biotics and cortizone for my chest, hope they start working real soon! Oh and yes all the meds are preggy safe ;)

Here's my 20 wks pics:

Looong weekend

2010-03-25T08:34:00.002+02:00

Well the weekend past was a long weekend for us with Monday being a public holiday. It was awesome as we went and camped in Scottburgh. Scottburgh isn't very far from us (about 20 min drive) but it was still nice to get away a bit. Connor loved every minute of it & loves sleeping in the tent. The only problem is it was so flippen hot we nearly melted! Luckily we were right on the beach so when the sea breeze did actually blow, it cooled us down a bit. We also spent some time bathing in the rock pools which was very refreshing!\

My mom headed back to the uk on Monday too, but will be returning in July sometime, so it's not long before we see her again :)

Connor has his school photo's today, so we gelled and spiked his hair for the occasion - I will share the pics with you once I get them :) Connor also showed me his smile that he's going to do for the picture & also said he's going to show the cameraman his muscles whilst he take the pic he he he The school holidays start tomorrow until the 12th April but luckily the school is still open for the kids to go play, there's just no 'official teaching', just playtime during the holidays.

I have my detailed scan tomorrow which is where they check all the baby's organs etc, so will share those pics next week too.

Tfr XX

18 Wks pics

2010-03-24T15:57:00.002+02:00

Well I think I am definately growing???

PS Xcuse the marks on my tum ;)

Update on everything

2010-03-15T09:23:00.003+02:00

Ok so a general update since the last post:

Connor's parent's evening was too cute. It wasn't a one on one parents evening as such, more as a group thing. The kids showed us the songs they sing at school & we got to have a look through the work that they have done so far. We had a general chat with the teacher then & apparently Connor's doing very well. Des (Connor's teacher) said that Connor is good with colours and shapes & that he's adjusted to school very well. I am so very proud of my 'big boy'!!

Speaking of proud, Connor did a number two in the loo last night! I know it's not big to many of you, but to us it's ground breaking he he he. Lets hope it was the start of good things :)

Our Joburg trip was awesome. Connor loved playing with his cousins again and it was great getting to see the family again! It was so nice to have some cooler weather too, as it's been so hot here by us that it's nearly unbearable!

On a down side, we were broken in to on the 6th March and the thieves took our two tv's, jewellery, dvd machines and radio. Aaaai what can I say? It sux about the stuff, but the thing that really irks me is the fact that these aholes break in, take what they want & then get away with it!!! I also think it is the builders guys that were here as they were a bit dodgy and whomever broke in, new our big dog as no one would risk coming in with him normally. Unfortunately though, we can't prove it & we don't know where they stay, so we just have to accept it and move on :(

Not much happening here this week. I will be taking Connor to the doctor today as he has had a bad cough for the past two weeks now. I wasn't too worried about it, but he's started coughing more & is wheezing too so decided to rather take him and get some more meds.

Anyways, have an awesome day & hope to update again soon

It's a ......................

2010-03-15T09:10:00.005+02:00

BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wow I am so happy and excited! I thought Frank may be a bit disappointed (as he wanted a daughter) but he seems over the moon. He said he always wanted a brother to play with as a child (he's got 4 sisters) and knows that Connor will love it! Connor is excited already & is asking when 'baby brother' is coming! So exciting, now I can go and get the room and stuff sorted out.

I went and lay on the bed, waiting to be scanned & the doc started. He asked a few minutes later, do we want to try and tell the gender?? To which I replied, I just saw it's another boy ;) Doc was shocked and asked how do i know, so I told him I saw it. He double checked and was surprised that I was right & said 'i guess you have a well trained eye' he he he. Hey if i wanna know, i wanna know right??

Here's the evidence & I don't think there's much doubting it?

And the 17 weeks profile pic:

So precious !!!

The downs blood results came back 1 in 5010, so that's all good!!

Next appointment is the detailed scan on the 26th March 2010, can't wait to see our 'little boy' again :) :)

TFL

This week

2010-03-01T13:46:00.002+02:00

So I mentioned earlier that I had my bloods drawn today & will update you as soon as I get results.

Then tomorrow night it's my big boy's first parent's evening. I will be going alone (with Connor) as Frank's in Jhb for the day. I can't wait to see what he's been doing in class & to hear what his teacher has to say. Of course I know I will shed a tear or two as well as apparently they're all going to sing us some of the song's that they've learned - darn hormones he he he

Then on Wednesday we are flying to Jhb in the afternoon to go visit the family a bit. I can't wait, but I can tell you, Connor is waaay more excited than me. He's been counting the sleeps from 20 sleeps already :) It's going to be awesome seeing everyone again & I hope to get some pics to share with you all too!

Well that's all for now, tfr XX

16 Wks !!!

2010-03-01T13:34:00.003+02:00

Wow it's all becoming real now he he he

I am 16 wks preggers today! I went for the down syndrome blood tests & should get the results by Wednesday. Yes for those who know me too well, I will be phoning tomorrow to get the results early :) I think I feel movement for the past couple of weeks now, but could not say for sure! I am hoping to feel some definate kicks/jabs soon. Here's a bump pic for now:

14 Weeks

2010-02-19T09:30:00.003+02:00

Monday marked the beginning of the 14th week of pregnancy which means I am officially in the second trimester now!

I got a bit of a 'scare' on Wednesday as i looked down at my belly - I think I popped over night. Seriously though, I mean 14 wks??? I guess the rumours are right that u show more with the next pregnancy! Jeepers here's a pic (which to be honest I was trying to suck it all in to prevent looking like a hippo)

So I decided last night that I better be brave and break the news to my little man as he will surely start asking questions soon. So last night just before our bath, I told Connor that mommy has a baby in her tummy. His response was 'why'. So i told him mommy's can carry baby's in their tummy's so that when they're big enough they can come out to be Connor's brother or sister & he can then play with them. So he told me it's a sister not a brother & put his head to my tummy to listen to what the baby is saying (yes this brought out the tears in me). When there was no response from the baby, Connor got a pen and proceeded to tattoo his sister (my belly). All in all it went very well & he seems the least perturbed by it. I also asked him if it is a sister if she's going to have long hair & he said no she will have hair like him but we not allowed to take her to have a haircut he he he.

Anyways, have a great weekend all.

XXX

Connor fishing in Mozam (pics)

2010-02-18T09:17:00.005+02:00

As mentioned in my previous post, I just have to share Connor's afternooon of fishing in mozambique. This was actually in our drive way at home, but there's nothing like the imagination of a little boy......................

First of all we have to get the fishing tackle bag out of the 'boat'

Then we have to paddle like crazy

and more paddling

Sjoe this is tiring work

Once we finish fishing, we must drain all the water out of the 'boat'

Oops, don't bump the head whilst draining the water

When everything is finished and clean, it's time to head of to the 'fishing shop' to buy some more tackle.....................................

And just a pic I adore of my boys!! (no we are not keen soccer supporters, but my sister bought him the kit whilst overseas ;) )

TFL

Things to share..............

2010-02-17T09:37:00.003+02:00

Well since my last post, we had a gynae's visit! All seemed good & baby has certainly grown! We tried looking for the sex (which in hind sight i found hilarious trying to find the sex on a 8cm baby) but couldn't see anything yet. The baby measured a week ahead of the dates, but we are sticking to my original dates as well I am just always right he he he. Our next appointment is 10th March, so holding fingers we will see the gender then. Here's the 13 wks scan pics:

Connor has settled into school & actually looks forward to going in the mornings. I still take him in and sit with him during assembly, but then he goes to class with his teacher after giving me a big kiss goodbye. He is so sweet at the moment, don't get me wrong, he has his bad moments, but overall he's too adorable. Some of my favourite things that he says at the moment are Disonaur (for dinosaur) and when i ask him if he needs a wee he says 'no fanks'. I took some pictures of him pretending to fish in moambiq (I told him his dad was fishing in mozambique and of course now he pretends to go there) so as soon as I have downloaded them, i will share them here.

My brother in law (Ryan) offered to fly Connor and I up to Johannesburg to go visit. So we took him up on his offer and will be flying there on the 3rd of March. Connor will be missing 3 days of school, but I guess it's not too bad????? Can't wait to see the family again!

TFR

Monday and not so blue!

2010-02-08T09:29:00.002+02:00

Wow what a start to the day! I took Connor to school this morning, only for him to give me a kiss at the gate & go into school with his teacher!! I was so proud of my big boy, but couldn't help shedding a tear at the thought of him being such a big boy he he!

The weekend went very well. Friday I picked Connor up and took him for a much needed (ok only in my eyes) hair cut. We then played all afternoon & then went and got some McDonalds for supper! Yip while F's away, we may eat the stuff ;)

Saturday we got up and I sanded all the rust off Connor's bike & then sprayed it with silver spray! I don't want to pat myself on the back here, but I must say i think it looked rather good! We then went and had a shower and then proceeded to the shops. I had promised Connor a shark tattoo (yes the temporary ones) if he filled his reward chart up for the week. (He gets a sticker for eating supper & sleeping in his own bed every night and once he has filled the whole week with stickers, he gets a reward). We of course couldn't find the darn tattoo, but the lil guy settled on a new pair of Ben10 shoes, and Ben10 playing cards. We went past Ouma and Oupa and then headed home! We were exhausted today because the temperature reached 39 degrees today and that is excluding the humidity (which could add another 5 degrees) - draining!!

Sunday we cleaned house a bit and then headed to the in laws for some lunch. Once again it was sooooo hot that we couldn't even play outside as it was just too too hot! We had an awesome afternoon with toys all over the place & then had an early night & headed to bed!!

Frank's coming home today from Mozambique & I can't wait to see the pics of the big fish he caught!

TFR

Weekend

2010-02-04T09:13:00.006+02:00

Last weekend we went to a fishing competition in Salt Rock and we camped there for the weekend! Wow let me just say, the caravan park that we stayed at is one of the nicest we have ever camped in and it was right on the beach. The tidal pool is right in front of the caravan park & you just walk straight on the beach. It was awesome.

It rained on the Friday, but luckily only after we had put our tent and accesories up. The saturday was the competition and shame the fishing conditions sucked! There were 230 entrants into the competition and out of those, only 25 managed to launch due to the massive surf! Frank didn't go out but we supported from the beach. We camped with friends (Daryll & Lisa) and their little boy (Matt) and Connor got along famously & tired each other out!

On our way home on Sunday, we stopped off at the animal farm which was a huge hit with the kids! It's an awesome place and we had a picnic there.

The boys fighting over who goes first he he he

TFR

12 Wks today :) :)

2010-02-01T15:00:00.002+02:00

Well I have made it to the twelve week mark! This makes me feel good as most books now say your are 'officially pregnant' at this stage as most of the dangers disappear from here on out.

I have started to feel alot better already and only have a bit of nausea here & there! Hey I may now secretly start enjoying the pregnancy now as before this I was still too worried to get excited ;) Also the nausea has prevented the enjoyment, which I am hoping will now ease up a bit!

The first of my belly pics was taken last week (at 11wks) and although i am embarrassed to show you how big I am already, I thought I would just prove to you what I have been telling everyone :

Hectic right???

Oh well, the joys :) :)

TFR

Friday 22nd Jan school day

2010-01-25T09:26:00.003+02:00

Wow what a difference a few days make! Connor was taken to school by his daddy on Friday & was full of smiles (ok yes i admit i reminded him that it was tuck shop too). He even gelled & blow dried his own hair so that he could go to school with 'spikes' in his hair!

Connor also started swimming last week. He goes every tuesday and Thursday and of course he loves it! It's a nice break from school too i guess :

Connor's first day at school

2010-01-25T08:57:00.003+02:00

Well it went pretty much as expected. Connor was fine the whole way to school, but once we got there, the wheels started to fall off :( It was heartbreaking having to leave my baby there & I had to fight the urge to either start crying my eyes out, or scoop him up and dash for the door! He was very upset, but according to the teacher, he soon settled in. Day three was by far the worst by means of the thoughts of going to school. What I mean is Connor started crying from waking up in the morning, but by the time he was at school he was fine again. Of course the fact that it was 'tuck shop friday' helped alot & when I went to pick him up there was a huge grin on his face. Too sweet.

Here's some pics taken on the first day:

TFL

9 wks check up

2010-01-25T08:50:00.003+02:00

Ok I am terrible at updating my blog, but just wanted to let you all know that my 9 wks check up (two weeks ago) went really well. The baby measured spot on nine weeks and the due date was exactly what I had calculated (16th August 2010) too.

I was amazed to see the difference that one week can make in the development of the baby. When I was pregnant with Connor, our first check up was at 8 wks and then he was still a bean. Yip just a blog the shape of a bean. This baby had arms and legs already & was busy moving around, it was amazing to see! Frank couldn't make it due to work, but my mother in law came with me & she was so happy to be able to see her next grandchild moving around! Here's our baby's first pic:

Back to the land of the living!!!

2010-01-12T10:22:00.003+02:00

I know it's been absolutely ages since i updated my blog, so thought i better do something about that today!

We have just about recovered from a very busy yet fun festive season! Connor and I were in Jhb for a week where Frank joined us on Christmas eve. We stayed at Michelle and Ryan's place and of course the four boys had an absolute blast playing together! We then headed home (family in tow) on the 27th. Cals, Shaun, Jakes, mum and Lea all came to stay with us and it was awesome having them all here. We kept busy every day doing different things, but I will do seperate posts about that. They all headed home on the 6th Jan and we were left feeling like we'd gone deaf he he.

We have a very big day ahead of us tomorrow which if I have to be honest, I am dreading. Firstly my baby boy is going to school for the first time tomorrow. I have tried to prepare him as much as possible for it, but I think it may be me that takes it the hardest! Once we've settled Connor in at school, we are heading to the gynae for our first appointment. I am approximately 9 wks this week, so just hoping that all will be ok on the scan. I am so so nervous but I guess it's pretty normal.

Anyways, that's all for now - check in soon for an update.

TFR XXX

I got it!!!

2009-12-10T09:21:00.003+02:00

I am so so so happy and no words can really explain how I am feeling right now, but I got my bfp yesterday!!!

So I got my blood confirmation this morning, my count is 3104, which puts me in the 5-6wks time. I don't know how that's possible as I calculate to be around the 4 wks mark, but I am just so happy all is fine! My symptoms are sore boobs, cramping & sore lower back! Just to prove it, here's my tests!!:

Things

2009-12-08T12:52:00.004+02:00

Well we've been keeping relatively busy since my last post. We had a camping weekend in Cape Vidal the weekend that's just gone! It was awesome, such a stunning place. My only complaint was the weather, we had a lot of rain, but when it wasn't raining, it was so so humid it's unbelievable. All in all we had a good time though. Frank was chuffed as he caught two fish, one of 11.5 kgs and the other 9kgs (both are Dorado):

Connor feeding the bokkie's and a pic of the pesty monkey's eating our chips!

Connor of course loved the camping part. He actually went to bed on his own, just so that he could 'dudu in the tent'.!! :)

TTC side i am approx 16dpo today, and starting to cramp. The optimistic thing i have going this month is that i have lower backache (which i don't normally get) which i had when i was pg with Connor. I vowed not to poas until tomorrow, so i will be doing that first thing in the morn. Pls hold fingers for me!

Otherwise we are getting excited now as it's only 10 sleeps until we see the family in jhb! Can't wait!

And now i leave you with a pic of the cutest butt ever:

Bad mom

2009-11-24T12:11:00.004+02:00

Last week I told you about Connor slamming his finger in the car door right? Well on Friday we went to Ant & Kate's for a braai and Connor fell off little Tom's bike & scratched his face on their tar driveway! Shame he screamed when it first happened, but the funny thing was after a few seconds, he was fine!! Even the Debbo's said they can't believe how brave our little boy is! I obviously feel like the worst mom ever letting this happen to him, but I guess boys will be boys!?

Right???

Then to add to me being the worst mom ever, I heard Connor playing in my car yesterday (hooting the horn) so thought I will just finish what i am doing, then will go and put him down to nap (knowing he's quite happy playing in the car). Not even 5 minutes later, I go to look for him & can't find him anywhere. I looked at the back of my car, but couldn't see his head so thought he wasn't in there. In panic mode, i call Anna to ask if she's seen him & she said she thought he was in the car. Back to the car we go and look what we found:

He'd obviously decided he's way too tired, so he'll just have a cat nap in the back of mom's car. Note how he even put his seatbelt on too - man he's precious!

Anyways, on to another topic (feel bad enough already he he he). I think I may have ovulated over the weekend & just hope we managed to get it right!!! Please hold fingers for me.

Our building took a bit of a horrible turn over the weekend. Due to the guys trying to level out the 'bottom garden', our retainer wall dropped around 1m!!! So we now have to first rebuild the retainer wall (on a stronger foundation) before we can carry on with the building. It's a bit of a set back, but luckily we aren't in too much of a rush to get it done!

Frank got his Bakkie, and he's really happy with it, although it does take a bit of getting used to as it's by no means the Audi! It's still really comfy to drive & Connor loves cruising around in the bakkie!

It's only 24 sleeps until we go see the family in Dec - man i can't wait any more!!!

Geeez

2009-11-16T12:39:00.003+02:00

Well I guess a lil update would be nice??

We are into our 9th month now of ttc, and honestly, i am getting tired of it! I am sort of making peace with having only one child & you know what, it's not that bad!

I know it's very negative thinking, but i guess the ttc gets to you after a while. I have dreamed of having a little girl for so long, and I just wish it would happen already!

Ok enough of the soppy stuff. I am not on Clomid any more & decided to do a cycle of soy. We fell pg with Connor on Soy, so lets hope it does the trick this time around.

If nothing, we will be giving it a break until next year!

Shame yesterday my little prince slammed his finger in the car door. It was so so sore & got an instant red bruise which i have never seen before.

We also had a test drive in Frank's new car (which he's getting this Thurs) and I must say, it's very comfortable for a bakkie! I will put some pics up as soon as I get some :)

I haven't posted any pics recently of my little man, so here's a few i thought i would share :

Just being cute:

Sorting through his clothes to find a Ben10 shirt:

At the bird sanctuary:

Exhausted after a play date with Mia:

TFL

Happy birthday my love

2009-11-16T12:38:00.002+02:00

Happy happy birthday Babe, I hope your day is awesome and we can't wait to see you later ;)

We love you very much.

XXX

Thank goodness

2009-11-04T10:43:00.003+02:00

You know it's not every day that we get to thank our lucky stars, but that's exactly what I was doing on Monday the 26th October!!

Frank was in an accident, where a car came off the top highway, (at spaghetti junction) it rolled down the embankment and crashed straight into Frank!!!

All I can say is thank goodness for Audi - it's the second time this type of car has saved him! He walked away a bit stiff, and a bit of whiplash, but no serious injuries!!

The car has since been written off & we are in the process of buying a new car. We're looking at getting a Toyota bakkie.

Here's some pics of our car:

Congrats & stuff

2009-10-26T13:03:00.002+02:00

So it give me great pleasure to say a huge CONGRATULATIONS to my younger sister Carys and her hubby Shaun! I got a phone call on Friday morning asking if hpt's are sensitive (bless her) and I of course just screamed Yippee!! I am so happy for them as they've been trying for a while now & I know how much it sucks when you want something so badly! Wow, I wish you guys a wonderful healthy and happy nine months :)

So I went to the gynae on Friday for another check up too. He basically told me that he's not a fertility specialist, and if i want to see one then i must rather go to the fertility clinic. That sounds harsh & he didn't really say it like that, but you get what i mean.

He said i had either a cyst or a follie on the right hand side. Now this made me sad as i thought i had already ovulated from the left hand side. I am not sure if there'd be visible evidence if i did! He said everything looked fine, so whether that means my uterus lining is also fine I don't know. (yip i know, stupid not to ask AGAIN). So basically the appt was a waste of time. I left there not knowing if I have ovulated, or if I am going to. The other thing is doc said i must give my body a break from the clomid now :( That also upset me as I don't think I will ovulate on my own any more. I may just go the soy route until the end of the year, then take things further in the new year.

On Saturday I dropped Connor off at his Ouma & Oupa's house as I was going to a stork party and shame he fell asleep on Ouma and slept the whole time I was away!

On another note, I am taking some meat to Pick n Pay today hehehe Nope not because i cook so well, but actually because I bought some meat from them yesterday & when I got home I cooked it. When i opened it I smelt it and thought it was suspicious, but cooked it as it had a basting on which i just presumed was what i was smelling. Once it was cooked, I had one taste & realised that I was right - it was off!!!!! Nasty. Now I am taking it in a bag back to them & will be demanding a refund. I mean how the hell can they sell meat that's off?? Wish me luck ha ha ha

TFR

Will post again soon

XXX

Doc update

2009-10-26T12:55:00.002+02:00

Good grief, at long last (and after cortizone and steroids) Connor seems to be finding the road to recovery again! We had a very hectic few nights with him as he just couldn't stop coughing which in turn effected his sleeping. The doctor basically said that because he's been on anti biotics, the infection is now 'coming out'. The coughing is caused by loose phlegm. He told us that if Connor isn't better by Monday (today) we must take him to see a specialist.

Thank goodness that he seems better now than he did. He's by no means 100% yet, but I think he should be by the end of the week!

TFR

Doc AGAIN

2009-10-22T11:23:00.000+02:00

Connor finished his anti biotic on Saturday & seemed fine. UNTIL yesterday! He is none stop coughing & I decided to take him back to his gp. I am getting worried as he's had this cough for about 4 wks now & yesterday he had a bit of fever. Hope the doc gives us some meds that sort him out once & for all.

TTC: Have mega o pains going on, but not a clear + opk yet :)

Will keep you posted on doc results

School

2009-10-21T15:15:00.002+02:00

Well i am very excited to share this bit of news with you. I got a phone call yesterday from one of the creche's that I put Connor's name down on the waiting list & she told me she has a place for him!!! So we went to go & have a look & I must just say, i LOVE it! There is a nice warm, open atmosphere about the place & the people are very friendly. There's loads of things for the kiddies to do & they all look very happy to be there!

Connor ran off with some of the kids & actually cried when i told him it's time to go. He said it's 'his kool' & cried all the way to the car.

I am so happy he got in there & I think he's going to love it. Oh and best of all, they have LOADS of extra murals for the kids for next year, so I can get him started with swimming & gymnastics too!

TFR

Sickly beings

2009-10-14T11:14:00.002+02:00

I took Connor off to the gp yesterday. Firstly because i had the worse hay fever ever, and couldn't sleep because of my itchy mouth. Secondly because Connor has had the flu on & off for the past two weeks.

The diagnosis is: Connor got some anti biotics to clear up his infection as it was going into his tonsils again. He also got some anti histamine which helped to clear his blocked nose.

I on the other hand got some unexpected news. My asthma is back with a vengeance :( I am now on steroids to help my lungs & doc reckons if i don't sort it out now, I will be in hospital for it in less than 6 mnths. So obviously i decided to take the meds - which is for at least two months, then will be reassessed. I also have an ear infection which according to doc looks like big water bubbles in my ear, so got and anti biotic for that & some celestamine for the hay fever! Wow I am feeling like I am falling apart.

The good thing about the appt is Dr. Sookram (man i love this woman) suggested i have my thyroid rechecked as it was a bit over active last time i saw her. She said i won't conceive if that's not right & she understands my 'need' to fall pg quickly he he he. So I had some bloods drawn & should get the results by Friday. Jo (Dr. Sookram) also copied Dr. Wellensiek (gynae) in on the results, so he'll have a copy too :)

Oh and I was discussing the Femara / Clomid debate with Jo. She said that some new results should be coming out by the end of the year that prove that Femara is much less harsh on the body & produces much better results than the Clomid!!!! I will be seeing her next year for the Femara if nothing materialises by then (Dr. Wellensick doesn't know about Femara!!!!)

The other thing is I am not sure if i will keep my gynae appt for next week as it seems a bit futile if my thyroid is over active. Well will keep you posted on the results.

As for now, I am going to have a nap with my lil prince.

I ho I ho it's off to doc i go

2009-10-12T12:03:00.002+02:00

Well the witch arrived a day late (after building up much anticipated hope) on Friday. I even poas in the hope that maybe, just maybe i may be lucky :) Oh well.

So with her arrival, it marks the fifth month for me on clomid. I figured i would do the whole six months on the stuff if anything, just to please my doc & then go for more tests from there.

The very strange thing is I sometimes get cramps, but on Friday, man they were crippling me.

Then the witch confused me even more by disappearing again yesterday afternoon. That means my af was 2.5 days long??? Well that was enough for me & I made an appt to see the doctor on the 23rd October at 14h15. I am of course hoping he finds no irregularities, but also hoping that he finds an answer for something (Ie uterus lining too thin etc).

On the other news, Connor is full of the flu again :(

I was getting so excited, as he actually slept in his own bed on Tues & Wed and only came into our room in the morning. I of course thought this is a good turn & from now on he'll stay in his own room. Boy was that dream short lived. Shame I can't blame him though, he really not feeling too great, so have just been dosing the poor lil chap!

Frank's leaving for Mozambique tomorrow! Yes of course i am green with envy, but the thoughts of joining a 'fishing club trip' were not too appealing, so I am hoping that Connor and I will get our trip to Mozam sometime soon.

Other than that, it's still bladdy raining, but is so so so humid - the joys of living in a tropical area!

TFR

XXX

Mid week

2009-10-07T15:39:00.002+02:00

Hi just a little update:

Well it's midweek already & thought I would surprise you all with another post :)

Not much is actually really happening. Except Frank's paid for all the building materials now, and we will hopefully start our building this weekend! I am actually excited for it :) As for the créche story, we still aren't 100% sure if I am going to do it. Reason being is I am not sure it's what i want to do. I mean to do something like that, you have to do it because you really really want to. Although I love kiddies alot, I am not sure it's what i really really want to do with not much income. Also the long hours worry me as I won't be able to spend the special time with Connor like i do now - so ja back to the drawing board on that idea.

TTC side, around 16dpo today, so the witch should make an appearance tomorrow evening. Now I am cramping quite badly today & not left with much optimism - will keep you posted!

Enjoy your evening all

XXX

My gorgeous beach babe

2009-10-01T14:25:00.002+02:00

Thought I would share the latest pics:

Blame it on the ....................

2009-10-01T13:34:00.003+02:00

Rain!!!

I know it's unbelievable how quickly the time goes by & I just don't get round to my blog :(

Well we had an awesome long weekend spent with Dave & Christeli from Jhb. They actually came down to Scottburgh for the weekend & we ended up going & staying with them!

It was really nice, the kids got to play together and we at least had one nice day of sunshine which we spent on the beach :)

The guys went to the rugga on the Friday night, and obviously got home very late again - they battled to keep their eyes open on Saturday he he he

Connor had a blast with his cuzzie (Amber), I will try and post some pics soon!

Then basically we have had non stop rain since Sunday evening!!!!! I kid you not, it's been alot of rain! I of course phsychologically (sorry can't spell that to save my life) tell myself it's an excuse to eat & stuff everything down my throat ha ha ha

Connor is doing well, but like mentioned earlier, is getting bored sitting at home. I have tried to keep him busy this week so far though! Monday we went to the post office & did some grocery shopping (yeah i know it's boring, but hey at least we get out of the house a bit).

Tuesday we went through to the pavillion - it was awesome spending time with Connor & I ended up getting him a few things for xmas! Well he actually picked the things, but forgot about them by the time we got home, so I put them away he he he. Yesterday we went to the mommy group, but Connor wasn't too keen on playing with the kids this time around! But its alright :)

Then this morning (after a restless evening with Connor) we got up early to pick up Frank from the airport! Everything went ok, except Connor in his own mind had decided that we were going to the airport so WE could fly on the aeroplane! Needless to say we had heartbreak on the way home :( But he knows we will go on a plane 'soon' (his own words) as we will be going to Jhb in Dec!

Hmmm so that's about all so far, will try update again soon!!!!!!!

Oh ttc side: I am CD25 today and approx 10dpo, af is due around thursday next wk. I may poas on Monday IF there's no sign of AF! Hold fingers!

I have been cramping since yesterday, but oddly, on both sides! Hope this is a good sign, but the sane side of me is telling me it may be cysts again!

XXXXX

Well.............

2009-09-21T11:53:00.003+02:00

The weekend has come and gone and it's Monday again :)

Friday we didn't really do too much other than scoff some kfc (man i love that stuff) and watched some tv!

Saturday I took Connor down to the beach in the morning to watch his dad come in after fishing, and we ended up spending the majority of the day there! Wow it was an awesome day. (will post some pics later). Frank was very brave and took Connor in the sea, damn that water is bladdy cold!!! I of course got burned to a crisp again :( I was so so so stupid, but figured we were only going to the beach for a few hours so didn't put sunscreen on! I of course covered Connor from head to toe in sunblock and smeered Frank too - but didn't think of myself! Oh well, at least my body had it's first taste of 'summer sun' and I made a note to self 'cover in sunblock whenever heading to the beach'!!!

TTC side, I ddin't get a +opk this weekend, but we managed to keep up with our 'homework'! I am hoping that i ovulated even though it doesn't show on an opk. Hold fingers everyone!

Oh whilst i am on the chat of babies, I just wanted to say congrats to Shinel & Tak on the birth of their baby girl, Talulah Faye!!! She is absolutely gorgeous and has my broody hormones on over drive he he he.

Check back later, will post some pics :)

XXXXXXX

O Weeekend

2009-09-18T12:28:00.002+02:00

Yippee it's a rainy Friday here and that means movies under a blankie :)

It just so happens that it's the big 'o' weekend, so hoping this weather helps a bit ;)

We've had the builder come and look at our premises, and it looks like we will start building in 2 wks time! How exciting yet nerve wrecking at the same time. I have decided that i will have no more than 20 kids and will offer a full day. There's obviously loads of things that I still have to do in preparation, but I am feeling excited already :)

Anyways, hold fingers for us & enjoy your weekend.

XXXXXXX

General information

2009-09-16T12:05:00.003+02:00

Wow just to find general information to opening a creche is an absolute nightmare - no surprise in this country right?

Anyways, the progress to the creche plan is that Frank suggested we build at the bottom of our garden & put a room & toilets down there for the kids to use. He also said that he'll put up jungle gyms etc!! I am very excited about this but of course a bit nervous.

I have been looking for info on line about it, but still need to do some more research so will keep you posted!

.....................

2009-09-15T13:53:00.003+02:00

The weekend came and went quickly!

Frank worked on Saturday, so Connor and I spent the day cleaning house, playing in the garden and shopping! Connor's always complaining about the sun when he's in old faithful (my car) so I decided to buy him his first pair of sunnies, he loves them :)

Frank then surprised us with a trip down to Southbroom on Sunday! It was an awesome drive and great having time to chat! We went to a restaurant called 'riptide' which is right on the beach. The food was ok, but the view and position of the restaurant is stunning! Afterwards lunch, we took Connor down to the beach and just let him play for a bit. We then finished up with ice creams before heading back home again!

I must say, life at the coast is pretty idylic..........................

This week i am looking into what it takes to open a child minding / creche facility. I still can't get Connor into any schools, so hence my idea. Will keep you posted.

XXX

Friday :)

2009-09-11T13:37:00.002+02:00

It's weekend :) :) Time to have some 'family' time - I think it's something we need right now!

Not much planned really, except we may take Mr. C out for dinner tonight - will see how Frank's case progresses.

Oh and I bought some material today to finally cover our 'poef'! For those of you that don't know - it's an awesome poef, but it's falling apart. The cover is totally ripped off now & there's only sponge in it's place. I don't know how successful we are going to be upholsterers, but hey it's worth a try right?

Anyways, you have an awesome weekend.

Useless

2009-09-08T13:25:00.002+02:00

That's how I am feeling again! I don't know what it is, but I just feel so useless.........................

I think this idle sitting around doing nothing, with no purpose makes it even worse. I need a job or something :(

I phoned the creche that I am hoping to send Mr. C to this morning, and it doesn't look too promising :( The receptionist said they are still only sorting through the 'sibling list' and only then will they attend to the waiting list. I enrolled Connor in March 09 for next year, and they are telling me they're full already!!!! Oh and the ironic thing - there's still a notice on there sign saying '2010 enrolments now open'! I am peeved about this as the creche is on our street and a mere walk away from our house, so I really wanted him to go there.

I guess I will have to go look at other options.........

TFR

Monday's af arrival

2009-09-07T10:49:00.002+02:00

Well just to make sure that my Monday is really blue, AF decided to arrive. I am pretty miserable about it as I was starting to think it could have been the month as I was feeling very nauseas. I guess i just put that down to Clomid side effects again!

This month's plan: Clomid 100mgs (or maybe 50mgs) from cd1-5. Will use the cp around ovulation time & just hold fingers.

Friday & feeling better :)

2009-09-04T11:32:00.003+02:00

Yippee, just in time for the weekend, I am starting to feel human again!

Connor is looking better too, so looks like a good weekend is in store for us :)

I will fill you in on what we get up to next week, but in the mean time I have to share the 'catch of the day' with you.

This is what Frank caught this morning, just off Toti Main beach, it's a salmon of 22kgs!!!!

I don't know why my pic's don't seem to be the greatest quality at the moment, but it's the same camera?

Anyways, I am off to buy some groceries.

Have an awesome weekend all XXXXX

Oh so sick

2009-09-02T11:31:00.002+02:00

Now I hate to complain about having a cold, but damn, I feel like death itself! My nose is totally bunged up and my head is about to explode :( The joys of travelling to different provinces?!?!?

Oh on another note, Mr. C fell off the bottom of his bed last night whilst fast asleep! He's also coming down with the flu and I think he must have been very restless! Needless to say, he woke up with the biggest bump on his head this morning, poor lil man - talk about being in the wars!

No sign of af yet. Did have a bit of cramping, but not too bad. I have the lower back ache though, which is a sure sign of her impending arrival :( Will kup!

XXX

TTC Garb

2009-09-01T13:57:00.002+02:00

Today is cd25, approximately 12dpo!

What this means is af is due more or less Friday, and this cycle, I will NOT be testing early! I will not give in to temptation & I WILL try to be strong he he he. I don't know how long this will last though! ;)

Like i said in my previous posts, my darkest opk was on Thursday, and we only got to bd on Friday evening. So we could still have a very small chance, but I am not too optimistic this month :(

Hopefully next cycle (if there is one) will be more successful!

Tfr.

XXX

Home sweet home

2009-09-01T12:36:00.005+02:00

We are home sweet home again!

We had an awesome time in Johannesburg but just regret at how quickly the time flies by!

It was so nice spending time with my sisters, but I think Connor had the best time with his cousins! It was none stop play from the minute they all woke up!

Connor has become the #1 fan of 'Ben 10'! It was so sweet to watch him in the mornings, he'd get up and run to Cole's cupboard and cry until someone put a Ben 10 shirt on him!

Oh how they pick these things up from their cuzzies! I have also been renamed to 'nicki' now and not mommy any more!

Here's a pic of the hat I had to put on (with Ben 10 on) to get him to fall back to sleep again at 11pm!

One of Connor at the airport, ready to come home, kitted in Ben 10 from the head down!

I managed to get together with Taryn and her family on the Saturday, as well as to see a couple of our mutual friends too! Connor once again had a blast there, running around with all the other kids!

Oh Taryn cut Connor's hair for me too, it's in the "Maddox" style now (almost mohican). I am sure in later years Connor will wonder just what the hell i was thinking, but for now it's adorable :)

Connor's joyous face as he descends the slide:

The weather was a bit colder than here at the coast, but not unbearable.

The boys played quite a bit of soccer whilst we were there & it's too sweet to see them all running around in their 'kits':

And just a few of the cuzzies:

Will update ttc side shortly!

Tfl./

XXX

Dummyless

2009-08-20T14:31:00.001+02:00

Yip that's right, my 'baby' hasn't had a dummy since Sunday night!

Well done big boy, mommy and daddy are very proud of you. You are growing into such a gorgeous special little boy and we love you lots.

XXXXXX

MIA

2009-08-20T13:50:00.000+02:00

Ok so as mentioned, we will be in Johannesburg next week, so I will be mia from here.

You all behave yourselves & I will update when we get back.

Much love to all.

TTC stuff (Boys don't have to read if u don't want to)

2009-08-20T13:36:00.003+02:00

Right so we all know that Frank is away this week right?

Well anyways, before i even thought about it properly, I decided that I am fed up of these excrutiatingly loooong cycles and decided to take the clomid from cd1 - 5 in the hopes that I would ovulate earlier and therefore shorten my cycles.

So yesterday was cd12 and I felt a bit of ovulation pain so decided to poaopk. I was amazed, got the second line nearly straight away and was bummed because I was ovulating and Frank's not here. (Yip typical woman right, my body does what i want it to do & I get upset about it he he he)

Then today (cd13) I felt some more activity in the ovaries so decided to do another opk, this is the result:

I have never had such a dark opk before. Now there is something i haven't mentioned about taking clomid cd1-5 and that is it increases the number of follicles, so the chances of a multiple pg are higher. Not that much higher, but still higher and I can't help but wonder if that is why the opk is so much darker this month (as there's more than one egg being released).

Well anyway, i think we will miss the egg this month as I am only seeing Frank tomorrow night and you normally ovulate 12-36 hrs after a positive opk.

The good side: at least we know what to expect for next month.

XXX

Slack slack slack

2009-08-20T12:40:00.005+02:00

What more can I say, I haven't posted in nearly two weeks now!

Wish I could say it's because I have been so busy, but honestly, i am just slack he he he.

Hmmmm where do i begin?

I eventually finalised my infant massage exam and sent it in on Monday.

I am home alone this week as Frank is in Jhb, Connor and I are joining him tomorrow (Friday) and we can't wait. We are going to spend a week with the family and of course 'the boys'.

We've been experiencing gale force winds here this week, it's been really scary. So of course i let Connor sleep with me whilst Frank is away. The kitty's also hate the wind, so this is our bedroom at night time : (note both cat's in the room & Connor spread out on the bed)...

We went to watch the rugga at ouma and oupa's house over the weekend and it whilst we were there, Connor was showing off some of his musical talent:

Last weekend, we also went to the local carnival. Ummm it was pretty boring really, but Connor loved it. He went on a pony ride - which he loved (even though the pics don't show it) and loved watching the mini aeroplanes and helicopters whilst sitting on daddy's shoulders. This pic is one of my favourites at the moment:

My little rodeo :)

Just a few of some gorgeous pics of my big boy:

Well that's pretty much all the news for now. Just wanted to wish my bro and Claire 'Bon Voyage', I hope you guys have an awesome holiday and can't wait to see the pics ;)

Alone with af!!!

2009-08-07T19:37:00.003+02:00

Well it looks like af is on her merry way! In a way i am sad that I am not pregnant, but in another way, I am glad that she's here meaning I did in fact ovulate! I am so emotional, can't stop the tears for some or other reason (I am never like this normally with af) and feeling alone :( Yip i am feeling sorry for myself.

Yes and on this glorious Friday evening, I am home alone! DH not even answering his phone!!!

Ok now that my vent is done, let me go get something to eat!! I think a whole load of chocolate is in order :)

Enjoy your weekend!!

And some more

2009-08-07T12:15:00.003+02:00

Whilst I am on a roll:

The new Pj's:

Connor with my demonstration massage doll:

Just too gorgeous

With Dad's cap on

This is the new smile. If I ask Connor to smile for the camera, this is the result - just too precious!

Ok I think I am outta here for the weekend now!!

Hope you have a fantastic looooong weekend!

XXXXXX

My 'baby' with his babies

2009-08-07T12:02:00.004+02:00

Thought it was time to share some more pics of my gorgeous boy. So here's some of him with his kitty:

No, I don't let Quincy sleep with Connor, but whenever he see's Connor's door is open, he sneaks in & this is how i find him!

Another BFN

2009-08-07T09:03:00.002+02:00

Well just when i thought my luck was in. No serious af cramps, tender bbs and occasional nausea were amongst the imaginery pregnancy symptoms.

So of course with great anticipation this morning i did a hpt - of course another bfn. I am upset as i really thought it was our chance this month! Oh well guess we need a bit more practice he he he.

So now the next question would be I wonder when exactly the witch is going to show. Today is cd33 - did I even ovulate this month aaarrrgtggghhhh...........

The pressure is on

2009-08-05T10:57:00.002+02:00

All the ttc addicts will know what this is all about............

The pressure to poas before af is due. Here's the run down, I gave in and poas on Saturday (cd27) as I was having loads of ips (imaginary preggy symptoms). Of course it was a bfn :(

As I of course was dissappointed in myself for giving in to my addiction of poas, I decided there and then that I would not poas again until Friday (CD33) IF af doesn't arrive.

Now of course my delightful ttc ladies are putting me under fire by demanding poas action........

Oh what to do, what to do.

I have full on af symptoms & really feel like she's about to arrive, so think i will stick it out until Friday ---------- or will I ;) ha ha ha **evil laugh**

Big boy pants

2009-08-04T13:49:00.002+02:00

The time has come for my 'baby' to turn into a 'big boy'. We bought some underpants for Connor over the weekend & he was super chuffed he he he.

I put them on him today for the first time and man he is so proud :) and keeps telling me he looks like daddy now!

I will try take a pic a bit later and post it here. Needless to say, we had the first accident within the first 10 mins of him wearing them, but so he must learn right?

Mom on the other hand is not so chuffed :( I can't believe that we are starting the potty training process already. Before I know it, my baby will be in high school and I will be left wondering what happened to the years passed.

Talking about school, there is still no space available for Connor to attend Umdoni creche in the last term, but he is enrolled for 2010. So it looks like Connor will still be at home with us until the end of the year - no complaints from me :) We really want him to go to this creche as it's

A) at the end of our road (literally 4 houses away from us)

B) It has a very good reputation, one of the best in Toti.

So the parent interviews start this month for next year, so I sure hope Frank and I 'pass' he he he. I will start putting a questionaire list together in the mean time - yup you all know how I can be :)

Advertising

2009-08-04T13:48:00.001+02:00

I am busy trying to get some advertising done through momsmatter.co.za It's such a good deal, a free listing, as long as you spread the word about the site and it's directories. So mamma's go check it out :)

Well done

2009-07-30T10:47:00.002+02:00

Just wanted to say well done to Marcelle who got her book listed! If you want to take a look, please go here: Baking Maybe's

I just wanted to mention too that Connor slept through last night!!!! He slept from 7pm until 6:20 this morning - wow how awesome it was to get a decent night's sleep. We spent some time on the beach yesterday, so I think the fresh sea air might have knocked him out!

TTc side, not much news really, cd 25 today and this cycle seems to be draaaaging it's feet somewhat. It feels like I have been on the same cycle for a few months already he he he. I think i will perhaps poas next week friday IF af decides to stay away. Hold fingers.............

XXXXXX

Illness???

2009-07-28T11:11:00.002+02:00

Well last night I had the worst tummy ache ever! Now before you all go getting excited, it's not pg related (well at least i don't think so) but I actually think it was from all the biltong i ate LOL!

This morning I am still feeling 'tender' and would love it to be ips, but honestly............ not feeling it much this month :(

I am on cd23 today and am not planning on poas anytime soon. IF I am late, then maybe, otherwise will wait for af to arrive. Sorry to dissappoint, but like I said, not feeling it much this month .............

XXX

Weekend 'no news'

2009-07-28T11:09:00.003+02:00

So the reason I haven't updated recently is there isn't much news to report he he he

Our weekend came and went and was pretty quiet. We had Donna and Darryl over for a chinese braain on Saturday and that was really nice as Connor got to play with Kiara! They so cute...........

Sunday we did a bit of shopping and just did some house chores. Yup I know pretty boring but nice in the long run.

TTC stuff

2009-07-22T14:40:00.002+02:00

Right so i forgot to poaopk on Saturday (I know - really stupid). Sunday's opk was very clear, but not as dark as the control line. Monday's was darker than Sundays, but Tuesday's was the same as Monday's!!! Confused?? Imagine my mind!

One thing that was quite hectic though is the pain I had yesterday. I felt like I could barely walk. Now people in the know say it could have been the egg being released? So I guess we will wait and see!

Either way, i presume i am in the two week wait now - time will tell!

Hold fingers..

Mid week award

2009-07-22T13:08:00.002+02:00

Yup that's right, i got an award from my friend marcelle : http://makingbabies-sa.blogspot.com . Thanks girl, love it!

So with keeping up with the instructions of accepting this award, I will now tell you 10 things about myself that you may/may not already know:

1. I am a poanything addict :)

2. I am a total baby freak, anything to do with or about babies I will be fascinated with.

3. I'm a qualified infant massage instructor (yes I know most may know this already)

4. I am dangerous if let loose in a kitchen, can't cook to save my life!

5. I am the sibling of two brothers and two sisters

6. I have three tattoo's. One on my shoulder of the moon (my birth planetary symbol). One on my right foot which is Connor's birth date in roman numericals, surrounded by flowers. And one on my left ankle of a butterfly.

7. My favourite lucky number is 7. I was born on the 07.07 and Connor was born on the 17.07.2007

8. Recently I can't get enough of prawns - man i love them!

9. I used to be quite the rebel when i was younger, but have since settled down (a bit)

10. I am actually a very shy person until i get to know you (but then once i know you, I won't nor can't shut up!!

XXX

Party pics

2009-07-20T13:36:00.007+02:00

Wow the party was a huge success! All the kids had a blast & Connor absolutely loved having all the 'babba's' (his words) over!

Here's a few pics:

The second birthday.....

2009-07-20T11:43:00.008+02:00

Let me start by saying thanks so much for all the good birthday wishes for Connor - it's great having so many family and friends thinking of him!

Connor's morning started off well, one pressie and a bottle.

I then took Connor to the movies to watch Ice Age 3. It was good except for the fact that the 3D glasses are so big, there's no way of keeping them on a kiddie's face - so Connor just watched is like normal. He fell asleep half way through - but it was all good.

Daddy came home in the afternoon & we gave him his "big pressie" - his Y-Bike! Shame he absolutely loves it!

We then did some party preparation by washing his 'old bikes' so that the friends can ride on them at the party:

After we finished with that, we went and got changed and went to RJ's for dinner. Carys and Shaun drove straight from Jhb to Rj's - so it was awesome having them there for dinner.

Connor played on the climbing frames and had a ride on the dodgems. He had an absolute blast of a time.

His dinner was finished off by mommy asking (more like forcing) the waiters to sing happy birthday to the big boy & blowing out the candles on his ice cream! It was so sweet, then he passed out on my lap.

The rest of our evening was pretty quiet in preparation for the following day.............

Happy birthday!!!!

2009-07-17T14:12:00.004+02:00

Happy happy birthday my big boy!

I can't believe that two years have gone by already since i held you in my arms for the first time!

Everyday is so special because you are in it!! You make mommy and daddy very proud and we hope you have a fantastic birthday weekend!

A few hours old:

23 Months old:

Love you lots

XXXXXXXXXXXX

General stuff

2009-07-15T12:40:00.004+02:00

So a week has gone by since my last post, so I though I would fill you in on the happenings.

Our weekend was very very boring :( We basically sorted out the house the whole weekend, but hey I guess now it looks better!

I've been busy preparing for Connor's birthday party & wow what a mission! Just to get someone who is able to make a motorbike story here in Amanzimtoti is a story on it's own! The preparation is pretty complete now though & we are looking forward to the party.

Connor is just getting so cute, clever and busier by the day. He knows he's having a party & when i ask who's going to come he replies "babba's". It's so funny he thinks all kids are babba's even if they're older than him!

We're still in the process of potty training and i would say so far so good?!? Connor is very confident doing a wee in the loo (even stands on the toilet rim because he want's to stand up) but getting him to tell us when he needs to wee is another story! I guess it will come with time & patience, so for now we just take him to the toilet as often as possible. Of course this potty training started a new fashion trend:

We had Frank's sister visit us over the weekend with Amber (Frank's neice)! Amber is getting so big now and of course Connor absolutely loved her to bits:

I had my hair done this morning & wow I love it. It's getting nice and long now, so hoping the split ends will just stay away. I was going to post a pic of it, but thought it would be way too vain, so I guess you will have to see in the birthday pics I take this weekend ;)

Here's one of my cutie showing just how to eat a chicken drumstick (whilst watching tv of course)

I chatted to mum last night & got her secret scone recipe. So I (yes me) am going to attempt to make them on Friday. For those that don't know, I am a disaster in the kitchen! But I decided last year that I will try and bake something for every birthday that Connor has & this year the decision was made to make scones. Hold fingers that I get it right he he he. Mum & Jakes will be coming out at the end of this year & we can't wait to see them! Connor even chatted with 'gran' on the phone & told her all about his party he's going to have - too precious.

TTC side: Took the clomid from cd 3-7 again this month. Will poaopk from cd13-16 and hoping I will show around cd15 as ovulation again :) Not too sure if I should poaopk from cd12 though as I saw my surge on cd14 last cycle?!?! hmmmm will think about it!

Ok let me get going, will try update more frequently

Update

2009-07-15T12:29:00.004+02:00

Yes i know i am slack, but hey i have been pretty busy!

My birthday was so much fun and the dinner was even better! Sushi & prawns, can it get any better? We went to our local pub after dinner and the wheels really fell off he he he. We ended up getting home after 4am and yeah felt like hell the following day. It was good fun though & I think letting the hair down once a year isn't that bad???

Here's some of the pics from the dinner:

Me and my dearly beloved:

My sister in laws (Karlien and Ivette)

And the Debbo's (Ant & Kate)

So the 33rd birthday has come and gone & the recovery is now complete - lets hope we have a good year ahead!

Thirty Third Birthday

2009-07-07T15:13:00.002+02:00

Yes I know I look younger than 33, but thought i would be honest with the age & surprise you all!
I had a well ummmm interesting year last year! I can't say it was bad in any way, but hoping this year will be a smidgen better :)

My thirty third year started off really well, I got spoiled with coffee in bed with my two favourite guys! Then i was given the most beautiful white gold necklace with a tanzanite pendant - stunning! Thanks so much babe, I love it ;)

What i am hoping to happen in this year:

* I hope my massage classes take off and that I have so many clients, I don't know what to do with myself

* I am really hoping for a bbfp (beautiful big fat positive pregnancy test)

* I am hoping i see my family grow - yes that means you Carys and Thom

* I know my friend will give me a delayed present in Sept ;)

* I hope my hubby continues to strive in his business

* I am hoping to see a bit more of my family!

* I am hoping Connor's transition to school is easy - yeah i know wishful thinking.....

Well my list could go on and on, but to stop myself being sentimental, i will stop here!

I am going to get ready now for our dinner tonight. We are going to our favourite local restaurant called Zanzibar. I will update with pics soon

Thanks for all the birthday wishes everyone - it's well appreciated.

Weekend and af update

2009-07-07T14:45:00.002+02:00

Well like i mentioned previously, our weekend was spent alone! But it was awesome spending my time with such an angel child!

Friday night was pretty boring. We watched a bit of tv and then hit the sacks! Saturday we got up and went to Inanda road and after getting hopelessly lost, we found the party theme factory shop and went and got connor's stuff for his party. Obviously they didn't have ANYTHING resembling a motorbike, so we went with the next best thing. It's bright colours with aeroplanes, boats, trrains and a flying saucer on! I can't believe that I can't find anything with a bike theme, not even stickers or anything! Oh well.

Then we went and picked up Donna and little Kiara and we took the kids to the movies! Unfortunately though, Ice Age was sold out, so we ended up taking them to see Night at the Museum 2 - and they both thoroughly enjoyed it! It was the first time Connor has been to the movies and I was surprised at how well behaved he was! I then went and got us some take outs and we headed home.

Sunday Frank came home and we all went to the circus! Wow it was good fun except when i put connor on a pony for a ride. The guy who put him on the horse 'yanked' him away from me so quickly, that i think Mr. C got a bit of a fright & screamed his lungs out!!! We all went home and had an early night!!

Monday morning my lovely friend af showed her face! I was actually happy that she arrived as I was starting to worry that i was in for another long cycle! Luckily, my cycle was 31 days, which is perfect! Something i found quite interesting was before i had Connor, my lp (luteal phase - the days after ovulation) was 16 days, it looks like we heading down that route too - which is perfect!!!

BFN

2009-07-03T14:13:00.004+02:00

Yup that's what i woke up to this morning, another bfn! I would say I am not too bothered, but honestly, I was hoping for a first cycle bfp ha ha ha. Yes I know it's alot to ask for, but hey a girl can dream right? Seeing as though today is 14dpo, I can only presume that af will arrive over the weekend. I have a feeling that Frank is slightly more bummed than me, but hey at least we get to practice again right???? ;) The strange thing is, i have all the ips (imaginery pregnancy symptoms) possible - guess it's from the clomid?

I have just completed Connor's birthday invitation - what a mission! Do you think i could find any program that has motorbikes on? So ja i just had to 'make do':

So I have been left to my own devices this weekend as Frank decided on the last minute that he's going fishing in the Transkei. Now under normal circumstances, i would be pretty peed off, but he's done so well with his sales that i think he deserves the break! Hope he catches lots!

As for Connor and I well......................... McDonalds for sure tonight (sorry baby ;)) tomorrow we will go looking for his birthday goodies during the day, then will be watching Ice Age 3 tomorrow night. This will be his first time at the movies yippee.......... hope he behaves he he he

Sunday I am hoping to go to the circus, but will go and check out the tickets and show times first!

So with that - have an awesome weekend.

XXX

Stuff

2009-07-01T13:31:00.003+02:00

Just a little update on the going's on in the Franken homestead.

I would like to start by saying Congrats to my dear hubby, he has had his best month of sales this month!!! Well done baby!

I on the other hand am getting rather dispondent about the lack of response for my massage classes! I seriously thought i would have had a better response, but hey i guess i should keep the head up and just persevere!

Connor's doing very well and is getting yet another tooth - so yup sleepless nights once again, but hope it passes quickly. I am in the process of arranging his second birthday party on the 18th July. Well his birthday is the 17th, but the 18th is the Saturday, so makes more sense! The most exciting news about this is Carys and Shaun have decided to come down for the weekend! Yippee i am so glad Connor's auntie and uncle will be here for the bid day!

I can't beleive that it's nearly two years ago since i had him, it honestly seems like just yesterday and yes he is still my baby!

TTCwise, i am on cd 27 today. Feeling very afish. I woke up with a headache that seems to have passed now & have rather tender bbs. Now don't get excited by these symptoms, as remember I took Clomid this month & it gives the same side effects. Personally i think af will be here by Friday or Saturday. Yup i wish i was one of the lucky ones who falls pg in the first month, but some how i don't think i am that lucky he he he. The good part is it looks like a relatively 'normal' cycle! Will keep you posted!

Progesterone Test....

2009-06-29T15:22:00.002+02:00

I had my progesterone test done last Thursday and man what a nightmare!!!

Nurse drew the blood & told me she can't give me the results, they will get sent to my doc where he will then call me.

Only problem is my doc is on leave.... So i went to my doc's rooms & spoke to his partner's receptionist (who by the way is a real b8tch - sorry if anyone knows her personally), she said she can't give me the results & phoned my doc's partner. He then said that the only way he'll give me the results is if i make an appt with him!
So i went back to the lab & told them there's no way i am making an appt just to get results & asked them if i can PLEEZ phone them for the results. They said nope, it's illegal.

Needless to say, I left there fuming & upset. I was also panicking because my doc only gave me a script for one month clomid, that means if af arrives next week, he wouldn't be here to give me another script as he's only back on the 8th.
So, called my doc's receptionist who sorted everything out for me he he he, it's good to have contacts She phoned the other receptionist & told her to give me the results once they are there.
I got a phone call from a very irritated receptionist Friday morning to tell me that my prog results were 51.2 & I definately did ovulate
Oh and as for the clomid, my doc's receptionist said i can go get a repeat from the chemist & tell them that the doc will fill the script once he's back!
Damn i love that woman!

TFR

Computer update

2009-06-24T14:48:00.004+02:00

Well i just got my computer back. It's hard drive crashed & I basically lost everything :( I am so super bummed about it, but on the positive side, at least i have now learned a lesson:

Back up everything!!!

I have yet still to plug the thing in, but to be honest, i am too peed off to do it right now he he he. I will plug it in later & see how it goes.

Frank was in Jhb last night, and will be back tonight. I can't wait, one night alone sux!

I had to take the Audi in for a service this morning, so just waiting on them calling me to pick it up again.

i have a few more pics of Mr. C to share with you too:

The best way to eat meat - with dad's filthy pliers of course:

Just too precious - loving his rugby ball:

And i had to just share that my kittie's now actually sleep next to each other. Not that Cody accepts the kitten yet, but hey we getting there slowly but surely ;)

TTC side: had a bit of cramping this morning. On my chart, it shows that i am officially 5dpo today, that is of course if i ovulated. I will be going for my blood tests tomorrow & will keep you posted!

Enjoy your evening. And my friend (you know who u are) I am thinking of you XXX

He he he

2009-06-22T13:53:00.005+02:00

Ok before you all think i am a super bad mom, obviously i didn't get my little babbaloo tattoed, but he did come with me whilst i got mine fixed, and just thought i would pull your leg!

Here's some more pics of the tattoo venture:

And the finished product:

It was really great because the england rugby team, as well as the springboks were staying at the Beverley Hills hotel in Umhlanga, which was opposite the tattoo shop. So we got to see all the players of both teams - huge excitement!

Friday was pretty quiet, we just watched some dvd's. We got Yes man, and the reading. While i thoroughly enjoyed both flicks, Frank was not tooo keen on The reading.

Saturday after the tattoo, we had Roly (Roland) over for a braai, and to watch the rugga.

Then Sunday was fathers day. Frank got spoiled with breakfast in bed (which Roly also took part in) and then we headed off to see what fish' the guys all caught. There's huge excitement at the moment as it looks like the sardine run should hit us some time this week, so obviously the guys are catching big fish! After the fish viewing, we made our way to the pavillion where Frank got some shirts & a pair of pants for fathers day! We then dropped Roly off and headed to my in laws. We bought Chris (Frank's dad) a cooler box for fathers day, and i must say, he looked very chuffed.

Finally at around 5:30pm, we headed home where we did the usual routine thing of feeding the zoo, then the kid, then bath time, bottle time and bed time.

On the ttc front, we managed to 'cover' Friday, but the rest of the weekend we were too tired! Aai jai jai, yes we are getting too old. Friday's opk was lighter than on Thursday, so i didn't bother to test again. Hold fingers for a 'normal' cycle for me.

Connor's first tattoo

2009-06-22T13:47:00.004+02:00

On Saturday we took Connor for his first tattoo. Yes i know he's young, but he handled it really well ;)

+OPK :)

2009-06-19T12:28:00.003+02:00

I know it sounds crazy, but i was so excited last night about seeing a possible positive opk (ovulation predictor kit) that i just had to share it with you. For those that don't know how they work, opk's usually always have two lines on them. However, when you are about to ovulate, the second line is as dark as the control line. You can see in my pictures below that i started testing from monday (cycle day 11) and last night i got the darkest line yet. I am super stoked that it looks like my body is working with the clomid & i dare to think that this cycle may just be 'normal'.

I will carry on with the opk's until the line goes lighter again, so will post again next week.

Oh a bit of exciting news before i go, i will be going to fix the tattoo on my ankle tomorrow with Mully! I can't wait & there is a small chance that both Frank and I will be getting new tats too!!

Watch this space.

Have an awesome weekend.

19th June

2009-06-19T11:09:00.002+02:00

Well like i mentioned in the previous post, i have been pretty slack with updating my blog, so thought i would do a quick update now.

All's been going well with us on the home front. I have been kept busy with organising my baby massage classes which by the way have been going very well! I was nervous as hell for the first class, but once i got going, it was smoothe sailing!

We went to Mtwalume over the weekend for a fishing competition and it was as beautiful as ever. I took a couple of pics of Connor on the beach near the tidal pool, and you can see the guys fishing in the background:

The fishing was pretty slow with some smaller fish coming out this time. Frank managed to catch 3 snoek and here's a picture of him with his little fishing partner ;)

Here's a nice pic of the guys fishing:

Please excuse my face he he he, but here's a pic of me with my 'babbaloo'. I pulled a funny face to try make him laugh!

Then these are just some pics of Connor - man he's just so cute!

Surgeon check up

2009-06-19T10:54:00.002+02:00

I know it's been ages since i have updated my blog, but i have been kept pretty busy over the past few weeks! Also, my computer bombed on Wednesday, so i am officially computerless! Luckily my dear understanding hubby lets me occasionally use his pc, as long as i understand that if something goes wrong with his computer, IT WILL be my fault he he he.

Anyways, just to update on the doctor visit from the 9th June. Well doc did a thorough exam and seems very happy with the results. He said there is actually no fistula, but his urethra opening is a bit further down instead of on the tip. The meatus (this is the opening which is a slit instead of a hole) seems to be back again, but this time doc says we must not fix it. Apparently he went to a conference with doctors from overseas & the general idea is that they now leave a mega meatus alone. The reason being that as the penis grows with time, the meatus moves up to the tip of the penis & will generally look normal! Had we known this prior to his last op, we wouldn't have operated! BUT we did get the opening closer to the tip with the last surgery, so i am not too upset at having it done.

So the general outcome is: Connor can stand & pee like a 'normal' boy. He will be able to ejaculate and maintain a normal erection so therefore NO MORE SURERY! Yippeeee..........

I was so relieved to hear this & doc is very happy too!

First weekend of June

2009-06-08T11:02:00.003+02:00

I am going to back track a bit to Thursday!

Frank left at the crack of dawn to go to jhb on business. We got up at the usual time and pottered around.

I called about getting my ankle tat fixed up, but think it will have to wait until next week as i can't go there with Connor.

"Ouma" then came to pick us up and take us to the airport where we then picked up Frank's car and went home.

Thursday evening went without any problems and i was in bed by 10pm.

Friday was ok. I was awoken by the glorious arrival of af, right on schedule as my doc appt was today! I will update below ** Connor hasn't really been sleeping very well due to a mixture of problems. First being he is still full of the flu, and secondly he's still teething. Hopefully he'll get back in to the swing of things and sleep through again. I went and got Connor some more meds today in the hopes of actually getting some sleep tonight. Frank called me and told me he won the independent contractor of the year award!!! Well done babe, i am super proud of you!!!

Saturday we went to Mia's first birthday party. It was really sweet, but of course i forgot to take some pics again. We got home around 5pm and started the routine of feed, bath and bed.

I got into bed around 9pm, but once again we didn't get much rest :(

Sunday we went through to the pavillion (as i had promised Connor a fish and a bowl) and i got some................ well actually it's a secret for now he he he. I unfortunately couldn't get the fish nor the bowl, but will search again later.

We picked Frank up around 1pm and Connor was like his shadow for the rest of the day!

I took Connor to the nursery around 4pm (So Frank could sleep a bit) and got him a little fish and bowl. It's too cute & he loves it! Except of course, he tries to climb in the bowl to swim with the fish LOL!!!

** Ok ttc side: Like mentioned above, i had a doc appt on Friday to see what was happening. Of course in typical af behaviour, she arrived in the morning. I still went to see the doc and he said i should definately start on the Clomid again to regulate my body. So our poa for this cycle is to take the clomid cd3-7 and then a prog test on cd21 to tell if i did in fact ovulate or not! Yay it feels good knowing i have a plan, hopefully the body will just co-operate now!

JHB trip

2009-06-08T10:33:00.004+02:00

Sorry, i know i have been super bad at updating but will try my best now:

Jhb was awesome. We had such a good time seeing everyone & Connor loved playing with his Nephews!

On Friday (29th) Michelle treated me to a massage & boy oh boy was it awesome! I think it goes down as one of the best massages i have ever had!

Saturday we went to Taryn & Vern's place for Reilly's birthday party! Connor had a blast playing with all the kids & didn't even have a nap during the day! It was so nice to see all the 'old' friends again!

Saturday night Michelle, Carys & I went to watch Tap dogs at Monte Casino! What a fantastic event - I would definately recommend it! Connor stayed at Michelle's place with the boys and Poppy.

Sunday we went and watched the boys play Soccer in the morning and then Carys, Connor and I went through to Irene Dairy Farm to meet with the girls from mommy! It was so nice putting faces to all the names & we had a really good time! Of course the highlight was meeting Marcelle, whom i have known for the past three years, but only met now! Here's a pic of us with our little ones! :

Monday morning Mich and I took the little ones for breakfast and then fetched the 'big boys' from school. We then all spent the day outside where Connor learned to go down the slide head first - boys will be boys???

The flight home was good, I forgot to ask for a window seat but fortunately no one came to sit there, so Connor could look out the window. He loved the take off, but fell asleep shortly after that. So of course when he woke up when we had just landed, the tears broke out because he wanted to be 'up' again LOL!

Frank was waiting in the airport for us and it was so nice to see him! Connor of course was very happy and gave daddy loves all the way to the car!

So that was our jhb trip - short, yet really really nice!

PS: Sorry not many pics at our camera was on the fishing trip that Frank went on!

Panic............

2009-05-26T09:09:00.005+02:00

Today started off with pure panic because i am thinking of all the things i need to get done today:

* Go get stuff from the shops

* Paint Nails

* Pack my clothes

* Pack Connor's clothes..... and the list goes on!

So I thought before i get going with my list, i would update my blog first!

I have confirmed two mommies at least for the start of my classes, it's so exciting & I am sure i will get a few more before I start!

I think Connor has started to come down with something as he was awake quite a bit last night! I can't be sure, but it also looks like his tummy is sore! Will just keep an eye on it & if any thing progresses, i will whisk him off to a doc in Jhb! Now speaking of my little terrorist, i found some recent pics of him that i would love to share:

So tonight we are flying out to jhb. Wow it's so exciting to spend some time with the family! Connor is going to have a fantastic time & is already crying to go on the plane! There's so much planned but i just can't wait to see everyone really!

I won't have internet access, so will only be able to update you once we get back next week!

On the ttc front: no news really. CD flippen 33 today & no af! Left a message for the doc and hopefully he'll be calling me back today. I think i will suggest another appointment with him rather than just taking more meds, as I am not comfortable taking meds if we don't know the real reason af is missing. I have a feeling that i have endometriosis again, but would have to confirm that via a laparoscopy! So guess i will see what doc suggests first!

Ok let me begin my chores.

Byeeeeee

Thursday & 1 week post op!!!

2009-05-21T11:02:00.002+02:00

Things are looking really good with Connor. His pain is nearly non existent, except for when he urinates in the mornings, then it's clearly painful. It must be because his urine is so concentrated then? Overall i am very pleased with the outcome and ecstatic that it wasn't as bad as expected. This being said though, a bit of bad news. Connor peed in the bath last night & it appeared to me like he has a fistula. The reason being it looked like he was peeing out of two holes. Now Frank has assured me that it can happen with 'normal pee holes' and to just wait and see. My concern is that it didn't look like the urine was coming out of the same place. I have decided to wait and see what happens firstly because there's not much we can do at this stage and secondly because we will be seeing the surgeon in three weeks again anyway!

Well i got my first client call on Tuesday and the mommy seemed very excited & said i should keep her posted. She said she'd email me her details, BUT i am waiting for the email! :( I also put more posters up around gynae and paed's rooms, but still no more calls. I am starting to feel a bit dispondent, but must just persevere.

Some exciting news........ My sister sponsored a flight for me and Connor to go and visit them in Jhb. So i booked the flight and we leave next tuesday evening (26th) and will be home again on the Mon (1st June). I can't wait and I am sure Connor is going to love it. We already have a few things planned. On Friday, Michelle booked us for some massages - ooooh can't wait. Connor will maybe go with his cousin to his day mother for an hour or so whilst we get massaged. I think he's going to love that too as he adores other children! Then friday afternoon I am hoping to get together with some old friends of mine. Saturday evening we are hoping to go watch tap dogs at monte casino, but still need to book that!

Sunday I have arranged a picnic at Irene Dairy farm..... i am so excited for it as I am getting to meet some of my 'cyber' friends from mommy! One lady in particular I have known for years and now finally we are getting to meet one another - how exciting!!!

Ok the cycle. On cd28 today and have a feeling that af is nowhere near. This under 'normal' circumstances would be exciting, except that it's nearly impossible for me to be pg this cycle. I have no idea where i am in the cycle, and don't even know if i am actually on cd28 as i had spotting on the 8th May which could have been the start of a new cycle! So ja, if you are confused reading this, just imagine how i feel he he he. Will keep you posted on any progress though ;)

Ok scooting off to shower eventually ;)

Monday (4 days post op)

2009-05-18T14:11:00.003+02:00

Thank you so much everyone for all the sms's, phone calls and messages!

The weekend went by ok. Connor for the most parts is doing well and only seems to battle when he urinates.

Friday Frank went bait fishing in the evening whilst Connor and I had a quiet tv evening on our own. It turned out however that Frank was back before long as there wasn't many fish!!

Saturday we cleaned up in the morning a bit then went to a friend's (Louis)place for a braai (bbq). It was nice seeing all the friends again & the kids had an absolute blast. Shame Connor fell off Louis bed whilst i was trying to get a nappy etc ready for him & banged his eye again :( I felt awful, but he recovered relatively quickly. Shame he actually looks like an abused child at the moment with all his bumps and bruises! We got home at 7pm and Connor went to bed around 8. He's not been sleeping well because of the op, but we all hanging in there as we know it will get better!! I have been giving him alot of pain meds, as i really don't want the lil guy to suffer too much!

Sunday was an extreme lazy day. I cleaned house most of the day whilst Frank and Connor worked in the garden etc. Our outing was to the shops and back.

Connor only woke up twice last night and i gave him some stopayne around 1am. He then slept until 7:30am this morning.

Today I have been busy with designing my gift vouchers etc and will go 'canvassing' tomorrow for my clients for my practical. I am so excited to get going, yet nervous too.

As for the ttc side..........................

Well it's just not happening at the moment & it's really getting me down. Like i mentioned, more than anything, i just want my body to start funtioning again.

So today is 14 days past my last provera tablet. I was expecting af to show within 10 days of the last tablet, so when that did not happen, i called the doc. Doc said that because i took it to stop the bleeding, i should have my af like a normal cycle. So today is cd25 and i am so hoping that i will have af by the end of this week. I am having incredible cramping down under, so hopefully that's a good sign. Hold fingers......................................

1 day post op

2009-05-15T10:58:00.002+02:00

This morning Connor woke up at 6am really crying.

I gave him some nurofen and then a suppository at around 7:30. It's now 11:30 as I type & he seems to be doing very well. Full of mischief & naughty as ever. The pain seems to be barable at the moment & he's really recovering well! I am so pleased, it's really not as bad as I thought it was going to be. I have just put him down for his morning sleep and he seems really relaxed. I will however keep up the pain meds for a few days, it's only fair!

On the massage side, i started my written exam yesterday & will hopefully get through section one by the end of this weekend. I haven't gotten any clients in yet, but I am keeping the faith. It will all come with good time. I have managed to put posters and fliers up at quite a few places already, so I am very optimistic.

My sister Michelle has offered to fly Connor and I up to Jhb for a few days at the end of this month. Frank is going on another fishing trip, so Michelle said she might come down to us with her boys, but it's a bit of a mission with school etc, so thought it would be easier for us to go there. I asked the doc yesterday if it would be alright & he said it's not a problem at all. It will be great to get the cousin's together again, so i might just take her up on her offer, but will keep you posted.

No real plans for the weekend yet, but will update on Monday.

Op day

2009-05-15T10:34:00.002+02:00

We had a very early start this morning. I woke Connor up at 3:30 am and forced some porridge down his throat. Well it wasn't really forced as he quite enjoyed it.

We then went back to sleep until 6:30 and we got up, had a shower and made our way to the hospital.

When we got there, we were put in the surgical ward as the paed ward was full of pneumonia's and chest infections etc.

There were two other children in our room though, so Connor was pretty relaxed & even offered his bottle and toy to the other little boy (also named Connor). He was too cute, pulled me over to the other Connor when he was crying, obviously to see if i could settle him!

Anyways, he had a premed (valagan) at 9 and went beserk for just over an hour. Then he slowly started getting tired & eventually drifted off to sleep.

At just after 11, the nurse said it's our turn. So i put his little gown on & carried him into surgery. Luckily for me (as my nerves were shot by this stage) he was still asleep, so the aneasthetist put the mask slightly away from Connor's face & he slowly drifted even further in to sleep! It was quite funny because i was watching Connor go to sleep & was slowly inhaling the gas my self. I eventually had to turn away as i was feeling goooooood he he he. So Connor was put under at 11:16. I went and had something to eat & then raced back to the surgery waiting room. I was back in that room in 20 minutes - yes I am paranoid but couldn't stand the thought of Connor waking up alone.

He was gone for 2 hours and by now my nerves were shot. Then suddenly i heard ma ma and knew that was my nu nu. I jumped up as they were wheeling him out of recovery and he grabbed my hand and went back to sleep. He had a good sleep for about 1.5 hours afterwards and only woke up when the doctor came to see us. Dr Shaik said it's a good job that we did the 'correction' as the area where the hole was had a lot of scar tissue & the skin was very thin. This means that within a few years (approx 5 years) the skin would have gotten tighter and tighter and the hole would have moved even higer up his penis.

I was very scared to have a look, but was very releaved when doc said he decided not to put a catheta in. I had a quick peek whilst getting him dressed & was relieved to see it didn't look too bad. Well obviously, it's very swollen and very bruised, but overall no where near as bad as the first surgery.

Doc said we could go home, so Frank picked us up around 4pm and we headed home.

The bath was a bit of a mission, i tried to make him stand in a bit of water so i could just sponge him down, but he wanted to sit - so i just sped up the process & had him out of the bath in 5 minutes! The reason is the doc said the area must be kept as dry as possible, so soaking in the bath is not a good idea just yet.

The bandage is very simple this time. It's basically just some paraffin gauze covered with normal gauze. It's not wrapped around the penis or anything, just simply placed over it to prevent sticking to the nappy.

By 7:00pm, connor was fast asleep again. So I had a quick shower and was in bed by 8:30, passed out!

Connor woke up at 10:40 and then slept until 3am. Then I gave him stopayne & he slept until 6am. ..................................................

2009-05-12T15:39:00.002+02:00

Wow well I am back from the freezing cold Jhb and had an absolutely amazing time! Lets start by Thursday, it took Carys and I a whole three hours to get from Benoni to Randburg! Yup it's crazy, but there was bad rain, a car accident on the highway and best of all Betty the Garmin (Carys and I named her so we could swear at her) took us to the absolute wrong street address!!! Cals once again, thank you sooooo much for bearing with me and being my chaufeur! The course was great, but i felt a bit over whelmed when i left on Thurs eve. It took us approx 2 hrs to get home again and we just spent the evening lazing in front of the tele.

Friday the traffic was much better & it only took us 1hr 20 mins to get to the conference centre. Needless to say, Carys and i were actually early so it was great that Cals got to have some coffee with me before proceeding to work. The course was great today and slowly but surely i started feeling a bit more confident. I spent the night at Chrizels tonight. Chrizel & Ivette went to watch the rugga, so i did a bit of preparation for the presentation we had to do on Saturday.

Saturday morning was great, it took us 20 mins to get to the place as Chrizel lives so close. The presentation went well & i did the discussion and closure part (which i felt went well). I used the topic 'the good and bad times with new baby'. Saturday evening was spent at Chrizel's friend's place. We had some wine and watched some movies. I also practiced my massaging on the two of them - which they seemed to enjoy :)

Sunday the course finished at 3:30 and Chrizel picked me up and took me to Carys and Shaun's place. We had a good 'kuier' and then they dropped me off at the airport.

The flight home was good, very smooth and I was so happy to be at home.

Connor was asleep in the car & when i picked him up when we got home, he screamed blue murder! He hates me!!! He honestly wanted nothing to do with me, so i decided to leave him be & will start the 'sucking up' tomorrow!

XXX

Monday glorious Monday

2009-05-04T15:27:00.002+02:00

Thank goodness the end of this provera is here!! I will be taking my last tablet tonight after dinner and I will be sooooo relieved! The reason you ask??? Well besides the fact that i have possibly gained 5kg's in the past week (I kid you not) and just cannot stop eating, but also the fact that hopefully i will no longer want to rip someone's head off any more!! So from tonight I can expect another af within the next 7 days. I am not feeling too excited for another visit from the aunt herself, but am feeling excited for hopefully a normal cycle again! :)

So the weekend went okish! Friday we had a braai at the Debbo's which was really nice as our terrorists (ooops i mean our boys) got to play together! I have a funny feeling that they are going to give us a hard time when they get older!

Saturday was spent tidying up in the morning, and did some shopping! Frank went to the rugby with Mark, so Justine came over with Mia. Aah man she's such a cute little cuddly princess! Oh i must add a huge congrats once again to Mark and Justine, it's so exciting!

Friday we were all exhausted in the morning (due to Frank's late rondevouz sp?) so we had a good nap mid morning, then headed down to the beach once we woke up. It was good getting some fresh air, but the wind was very cold so we headed home. We stopped by the bakery on the way home where Frank bought me a "peace offering" chelsea bun, and let me tell you, it was impossible to stay angry after that! Mmmmm it just melted in the mouth!

As you can see, i managed to change my layout a bit, so let me know what your thoughts are!

I processed the final payment today for the course that i am going on, so it's full steam ahead. I will probably be staying with Carys on Wed, Thurs and Fri and then Chrizel on Saturday. (This must still be confirmed though). Yes my nerves are reaching breaking point already, so i will be going out to get some rescue tomorrow. Just the thought of leaving my baby is enough to break my heart!!

Oh nearly forgot to mention that Connor got his 6th tooth over the weekend ;) Yay well done big boy!

Well that's all for now.

Tues 28th

2009-04-28T14:45:00.002+02:00

Things changed a bit with regards to my natural route of things mentioned on Friday. The gynae phoned and suggested that i start on Provera (which is basically progesterone) as soon as possible to sort my hormones out. It will basically balance out my hormone balance and then I should **hopefully** be able to proceed with the baby making as soon as my next cycle. So I started on the meds on Saturday and will be taking them for 10 days. There after i should have af 3-7 days after the last pill and HOPEFULLY two weeks later we will head towards the big o again!

We had an awesome weekend spent with lots of shopping, playing and chatting with the in laws!

On Saturday morning I got a huge fright! Connor fell off our bed and fell straight onto his forehead! His head had a HUGE bump, the size of a golf ball and i was so worried! He of course got over it quite quickly, but I think he had a huge headache! (Will put a pic up as soon as possible).

After the 'accident', Isabel, Chrizel and I took Connor to the pavillion and he got very spoiled with me buying him quite a bit of winter clothing :) There was a huge thunder storm on the way home and it came as a huge surprise because when we arrived at the mall, the sun was shining & it was actually quite warm!

Frank got back on Sunday and said he had a really great time camping at the mmc2009! It's great to have him back at home though, and Connor of course was ecstatic!

Yesterday Frank's friend Gareth came round for a braai with his daughter. It was a lovely day and luckily the weather held up nicely!

I just realised today that i will be leaving in a weeks time for Jhb!!! Yes it came as a shock because i would have sworn that i had over 2 wks to go before i fly off! Oh well, i am very excited and really hope it's an awesome course.

I am feeling extremely nauseas and tired from these meds today, so will say cheerio for now so i can go get some rest :)

2009-04-24T15:16:00.002+02:00

Yeah well i couldn't go without adding a bit of exciting news to start the weekend with:)

I just booked for my baby massage course in May! I will be leaving on the 6th and flying back on the 10th May! I will be learning the method of Infant Massage through a company that is internationally recognised. I am soooo excited for it and nervous at the same time LOL!

Honestly i am more nervous about leaving my baby/s for so long! I have never and i repeat, never left Connor for this long! I actually get teary eyed about it because i think he will be cross with me and not be as close to me once i am back! Yes i know this looks crazy in writing, but in real life, it's a huge reality to me! In the back of my mind i know he'll be ok and will forget about my absence very quickly, but it is still upsetting (yes i am a paranoid mom)!

I know my dear hubby will also be taking a bit of strain with bed time etc, but I have faith that you will sort it out well!

Ok so obviously (how ironic) this course had to start the same day as the big o for me, so I guess now more than ever, this cycle will purely be to check if we can get the body funtioning properly!

Right so seriously now

Byeee

Talk about dissappointment.......

2009-04-24T12:49:00.002+02:00

What a way to start the day!

I got up this morning to find Aunt Flo popped her ugly head in for a visit again!! Soooo what does that mean for me? Well for starters, i didn't ovulate last cycle and secondly, my cycle was only 15 days long! So now the serious guns need to be pulled out. The options are a) get clomid script from doc. This is an ok idea as it should regulate my cycle, BUT Clomid increases the chances of ovarian cysts. With my history of cysts, perhaps this isn't a great idea to do just yet?

b) do the natural supplement route for this cycle and see if I can get my body to work properly this way? Yes as you can tell, i love to self diagnose and treat my symptoms he he he.

So the decision is, au naturale!!! Yup will give some natural supplements a chance this cycle and then take it from there. Hold fingers people!!

As for the weekend, not much planned really. I will definately be taking Connor to the pav tomorrow as we need to get him some winter clothes! I can't believe that my "baby" will now be going into size 24-36 months clothes! **Shock** It feels like just yesterday that he was wearing 0 - 3 months!

Much to Frank's disgust we will be having McDonalds tonight too! (he he Frank's convinced it gives you brain tumours).

I am in the process of looking for flights to Jhb as we speak, as i am going to do a baby massage course there next month!

So here's to a good weekend>>>>

Catch up next week ;)

Thurs.............day & Bon Voyage

2009-04-23T14:39:00.002+02:00

Bon Voyage babe!!! Hope you have an awesome weekend with your dad. Frank left today to join his dad at the 'mighty men congress'! I will miss him, but luckily have a special little dude staying with me to keep me company ;)

I caught up with Candy this morning (she moved to aust with her family) and seems all is going ok! We miss you guys and wish you could just come back already!! Also found out a certain friend has a bun in the oven! Official congrats will be sent out after the doc appt, as requested! Anyways, i am super happy for them & wish them a happy healthy 9 months ahead!

TTC: CD15 today. No sign of o really besides some stained cm! Hoping this is a good sign as I really feel lost with the cycle monitoring at the moment!!

Ok bye for now XX

2009-04-21T14:01:00.003+02:00

Well what a waste of time.........................

I went for the interview where they informed that the working hours are from 7:30 - 5 and that i would have to work every alternate public holiday! All this to earn.........................................................................................................................

Wait for it, you going to be jealous.....................................................................

R3000 - R4000 per month!!! **shock, horror** Needless to say, i told them no thanks & left!

Oh well on the positive side, at least I went!

Another bit of bad news today, Frank smashed his car! I am not too sure how bad it is, but he says it's pretty awful! Luckily he's fine though! So now we have to get that sorted out & Frank is wondering if he'll make it with his dad this weekend!

Cals (Carys) I am sorry about your huge disappointment this morning, but hang in there, it will all work out soon!

It's pretty cold here today and I can feel the winter is just around the corner now!

Good luck to everyone who's voting tomorrow, lets hope it goes smoothly!

TTC news, well no news really! Today is cd13 for me! I am not exactly sure when i am going to have the big o day, but hoping it's rather sooner than later! My last cycle consisted of 49 days, which i have never had before, so one can only guess what this cycle will be like! Once i actually figure out these cycles of mine again, we will have a better understanding of where and when to go!

And with that, we will chat on Thursday again :)

Monday update.........

2009-04-20T15:47:00.001+02:00

Hmmm some interesting news, i am going for an interview tomorrow at a company literally just round the corner from our house!!! I am not sure as to what they are offering, but i will keep you posted. The interview is at 12:45!

Weekend and Monday updates...........

2009-04-20T12:39:00.009+02:00

Well the weekend has come and gone once again and time for an update from me!

Friday afternoon, I had some fun with Connor and managed to capture some moments on camera. Yes i love taking pics & I sometimes wonder if Connor thinks the camera is part of my face he he

In these pics he's copying his kitten under the plant & just generally being cute:

Friday evening my mother and father in law (Isabel and Chris) looked after Connor for us whilst we went to Frank's prize giving! The prize giving was good and Frank ended up winning two "trophies", one for the biggest Dorado caught and another for the most improved angler! Well done babe, I am very proud of you. Here's the pics of the trophies he received:

We went to friends afterwards to say howdi and ended getting home just after 1am.

Connor was apparently an angel again (what do you expect with parents like us he he) and gave his grandparents no troubles at all.

Saturday we were all very tired and ended up having a mid morning nap until 1pm. Then we packed our stuff and headed down to the beach. Wow it's such an awesome time spent on the beach and so relaxing (except for Connor running hay wire at least). Then Sunday was spent once again on the beach!

All in all a pretty non productive weekend, but good times spent together.

My Wisdom tooth is still giving me hell though, and I am dreading the fact that i may have to go visit the dentist. For those of you that don't know me that well, i have a terrible fear of dentists, i would rather shoot my big toe off before visiting one!!! So will see what the next 24hrs brings before making the appt Lol!

Speaking of appointments, Connor's next surgery has been booked for the 14th May 2009. He will be having another hypospadias repair done, but this time not as huge a op as the first one luckily! I am of course dreading it already, but it's something that needs to be done to avoid ridicule in the future! We are hoping that this will be the last of the surgeries! So please keep us in your thoughts and prayers on that day! But i will obviously remind you closer to the time!

And with that, that's all for now.

TGIF???

2009-04-17T14:53:00.002+02:00

Well the weekend is upon us babbeee!!
It's time to sit back, relax and enjoy all the the weekend brings. For me it's bringing terrible wisdom tooth ache which isn't too great, but I won't let that get in the way of having a great one!
We are having Frank's fishing prize giving tonight and Mr. C (One of Connor's many nicknames) will be staying with Ouma and Oupa tonight! He stayed with them on Wed evening too whilst we went out for dinner, and he behaved himself relatively well - lets hope he does the same tonight! Secretly Ouma and Oupa enjoy the baby sitting ;)

So with that, you must have a fantastic weekend & we will see you next week.

XXXX

My introduction......

2009-04-17T11:21:00.000+02:00

Well this is the start of my blogging days, how exciting! You will have to bear with me here, as i actually have no idea where to begin with this!

I guess the beginning is to tell you a bit about myself.....................

My name is Nicki Franken and I am a thirty two year old woman. I am currently a stay at home mom (I have a few interests on the side, but will share them later) as i lost my job in September last year. We moved to Amanzimtoti three years ago, and i must admit, this relaxed way of life has definately grown on me :)

My son who's a real sweet heart will be turning two in July! My how time has flown, it feels like just yesterday that i was holding this new little baby in my arms, and now he's a big boy! Well he's still my baby LOL. He's a real beach boy, with blonde hair and blue eyes, will try upload some pics as soon as i figure out how!

I am married to a wonderful man named Jaco (my nickname for him is Frank as that's how we were introduced years ago). We celebrated our third wedding anniversary on Wed 15th April, and I am more in love today than i could ever have imagined. (Sorry pretty sloppy i know he he ) Yes we have our ups and downs, but thats pretty normal right????? We got married in Zanzibar & I couldn't even dream of a more romantic and perfect setting to begin your lives together!

Anyways, we decided on our anniversary that we were going to try for our second child now. The time seems right with me not working etc, and with me not gettting any younger neither lol. I have a few ttc (trying to conceive) plans up my sleeve, but for now will be taking it easy.

I am a sister to two wonderful sisters, Carys and Michelle, as well as sister to two wonderful brothers, Thom and Jakon. The 'boys' stay in the uk, and the 'girls' stay in Jhb. I am the second eldest, Michelle being the eldest, then me, Thom, Carys and lastly Jakon! I used to wonder if my mum was crazy to have 5 kids, but i have since realised, it's so nice to come from such a large family and if we could afford it, would probably do the same!

Speaking of mum, she stays in the Isle of Man with Jakon for now. We're all secretly hoping they'll come back soon, but they'll know when the time is right. ;)

Wow this is easier than i thought.............................

I am an aunt to three very special little boys (Michelle's children) Luke, Cole and Rhys. I don't get to see too much of them as they stay in Jhb, but when we do, it's good fun having all four little boys running around.....

I have four furry pets, two dogs and two cats. I will get round to posting more about them soon.

The reason for me starting this blog is to keep a "journal/diary" of our second ttc journey. As well as to share the every day occurances with you!!

Tfr