Empty Nest

This probably isn't what they mean by nesting: an air mattress, two pillows, and a dog bed. But that's what we've got for the time being. Our car and our belongings are on their way to Texas. We have a fridge full of food and a dirty apartment to deal with. Thanks to my folks, though, and their stellar packing job (the movers actually *complimented* us on the packing job) all 4150 lbs. of our belongings are on their way to the Lone Star State.

For me, this has been a melancholy week. Goodbyes around every corner. Clients are hard enough, but the goodbyes with co-workers and friends have begun and are managing to keep me off kelter. Daddy P is in a totally different mental/emotional place, and is just 100% excited to get the hell outta this state. Three more work days and my goodbyes will be over, and I will be able to focus whole heartedly on the fun of returning to my long lost friends.

Undulating Stomach and Boxes

For the first time this week, Daddy P and I watched Baby G do the wave (by herself, surrounded by fluid and grossness, through my stomach). It was at once fascinating and totally disgusting. Since then I find myself caught up in the new hobby of stomach-watching. I will just sit for minutes on end staring at my stomach, hoping to catch her moving around.

Meanwhile, my folks flew out here this weekend to help us pack. At first, I thought this was a truly nice gesture. Now I realize that we were saved by these people and owe them a grandchild. Oh wait -- done. Perfect timing. There is no way that 29 weeks pregnant Mamacita and still-one-handed Daddy P could have done this in less than two weeks of solid packing. My stamina this week took a nasty turn, and I have suddenly found it hard to bend over and pick things up. This is a very disturbing development if you ask me. Last week -- I swear, just last week -- I was nimble and agile, and able to do just about anything that needed doing. Now? When I bend over to pick something up I have to do this plie/squat thing or else my head fills with blood and I feel like my stomach and head will explode simultaneously. This baby's getting too big. Maybe she's ready to come out.

Help Daddy P get a job

If you are finding yourself really in the middle with this whole election thing... and you really like Daddy P... and you don't mind having your vote influenced... then think about voting for Obama. He's said that he will make the space program a focus of his presidency. Here's an excerpt. (And this pertains to Baby G because she will need an employed Daddy to help Mommy put food on the table...)

And we have to do more than provide short-term relief. We have to secure our long-term prosperity and strengthen America's competitiveness in the 21st century. One of the areas where we are in danger of losing our competitive edge is our space program. When I was growing up, NASA inspired the world with achievements we are still proud of. Today, we have an administration that has set ambitious goals for NASA without giving NASA the support it needs to reach them. As a result, they've had to cut back on research, and trim their programs, which means that after the Space Shuttle shuts down in 2010, we're going to have to rely on Russian spacecraft to keep us in orbit.

We cannot cede our leadership in space. That's why I will help close the gap and ensure that our space program doesn't suffer when the Shuttle goes out of service by working with Senator Bill Nelson to add at least one additional Space Shuttle flight beyond 2010; by supporting continued funding for NASA; by speeding the development of the Shuttle's successor; and by making sure that all those who work in the space industry in Florida do not lose their jobs when the Shuttle is retired – because we cannot afford to lose their expertise.

More broadly, we need a real vision for space exploration. To help formulate this vision, I'll reestablish the National Aeronautics and Space Council so that we can develop a plan to explore the solar system – a plan that involves both human and robotic missions, and enlists both international partners and the private sector. And as America leads the world to long-term exploration of the moon, Mars, and beyond, let's also tap NASA's ingenuity to build the airplanes of tomorrow and to study our own planet so we can combat global climate change. Under my watch, NASA will inspire the world, make America stronger, and help grow the economy here in Florida. That's what this election is all about. It's about raising our sights, seizing this moment, and reclaiming our destiny in this country. And yet, at a time when the stakes could not be higher – when the challenges facing our country could not be greater – my opponent is talking about Britney and Paris. Well, I think the American people deserve better. Senator McCain and I have real differences and that's what we should be talking about – because we have a real choice to make in November.

And what has the thumb done for you, you ask?

Made me dinner. Yum! Daddy P took full advantage of his new range of motion. He is quite excited, needless to say. I decided to spare you pictures of his indescribably yucky hand.

Instead, more on mother skills! My newest cupcake venture included fondant! It was tricky, and I need a lot more practice, but they turned out pretty cute...



Our friend Melissa has connected us with a doula in Austin that she knows. I hadn't ever thought of using a doula before. But today, I started thinking. You hire a wedding organizer to make sure that your wedding goes well, and what's on the line for THAT event? Your train being carefully placed behind you? Your make-up looking good? I mean, this is way more important -- uh, human LIFE people! -- so why wouldn't I pay someone to tell me what is supposed to happen next and how the heck to make my back hurt less.

Daddy P spent the evening researching doulas on-line. The research he found isn't really very rigorous, but there does seem to be a correlation between doulas and shorter labor, less use of epidurals, breastfeeding, etc. It all started out as me looking for a massage, and now we might have a doula! Sounds good to me! (Thanks, Melissa!)

Hooray for opposable thumbs

This morning I went to the doctor and was greeted with good news. It seems my wrist has shown some significant healing, at least enough to free me from the cast I've spent the last 8 weeks in! I am now sporting a much lighter and much less restrictive removable splint. The best part about the splint is that I am able to bend my thumb a little, and can actually use it to hold things somewhat. With that, I have officially rejoined the ranks of the multi-thumbed! Look for Mamacita to receive considerably more pampering now that I am able to cook and do dishes once again.

The visit wasn't a complete success, however. My wrist is not totally healed, and I am not cleared for lifting or athletic activity. My left hand is probably half as big as my right due to the muscle atrophy. I am also having trouble bending my digits in the direction that they traditionally go. So, fear not, grandma and grandpa R. You will still be needed to pack our stuff for our move to Austin :)