the-coffeys.com

Emotions (in 5 minutes)

2008-10-08T12:15:00.006-05:00

Foiled

2008-10-07T12:25:00.009-05:00

There are two things I've wanted to accomplish while home on maternity leave:

1. bond with Karston (whenever he is awake)
2. get healthy so I can be active/exercise

On Friday my doctor cleared me for everything but jogging. Nathan was a good sport on Saturday and let me drag him out to play lazy tennis for an hour. Lazy tennis is when you don't jog/run to get to the ball. It was difficult for me not to chase after the tennis ball but I did it. I can't even describe my excitement at being able to play lazy tennis and ride my longboard over the weekend. My body has freedom at last!

Then yesterday I dropped Karston off with Louise for an hour while I went to swim laps. Louise has been an au pair with my brother's family for over a year now. When I go back to work Louise is going to watch Karston. Here is a pic of the fabulous Louise playing in the leaves with Ellie last fall.

I bought a month-long pass at the REC center to have access to the pool and gym. I cannot bear to do aerobics at my house. It is not quite sporty enough for me.

Today my plan to drop Karston off with Louise was foiled. Cousin Korbin has pink-eye. You can check out a pic on Rachael's blog. She's planning to put it up soon (if she hasn't already). I imagine this bout with pink-eye is the first of many colds, flus, and sicknesses our kiddos will pass back and forth. For now I'm crossing my fingers Karston won't come down with pink-eye later this week.

Today while Karston farts away in his sleep (seriously they sound like man-farts), I am blogging rather than working out. I cannot wait to hit the gym after Nathan gets home from work tonight and probably the rest of the week until the cousins conquer pink-eye.

Karston's One Month Recap

2008-10-06T10:13:00.003-05:00

Karston just had his 1 month birthday on October 4th. It's been an awesome month with him in our lives. We love him very much even though he doesn't do anything aside from Eat. Sleep. Poop (It's a cycle)

He's an adorable little boy and very good at what he's learned how to do in his one month here on Earth. His most exciting accomplishment in our eyes is his little smile or his coos when he's falling asleep and happy. We love it when he actually looks at us, into our eyes. It's almost as if he's thinking: 'Hey, you guys aren't pros but you're all I've got for parents. Guess I gotta make the best of it!'

He absolutely loves his bath time, Valerie is ecstatic that since he was born, her Washington Redskins are undefeated and claims it's Karston's presence (while wearing his Redskins outfits).

This year for Halloween Valerie and I decided that Karston will dress up.... we bought an AWESOME!!! costume for him, which will remain a surprise until a post on Halloween day!

Stay tuned!

Vote Yes on 8!

2008-10-01T12:26:00.006-05:00

Valerie and I don't live in California anymore, but as one who spent his youth growing up on the sandy beaches of California, I still feel I am a part of that great state. I couldn't say this any better than what has already been said, so I'll quote:

In 2000, by over 61%, California voters chose to pass legislation that read: "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."

Sadly, because four activist judges in San Francisco wrongly overturned the people's vote, California now needs to repass this measure as a constitutional amendment to restore the definition of marriage as between a man and a woman.

The Supreme Court's decision to legalize same-sex marriage did not just overturn the will of California voters; it also redefined marriage for the rest of society, without ever asking the people themselves to accept this decision.

This decision has far-reaching consequences. For example, because public schools are already required to teach the role of marriage in society as part of the curriculum, schools will now be required to teach students that gay marriage is the same as traditional marriage, starting with kindergartners. By saying that a marriage is between "any two persons" rather than between a man and a woman, the Court decision has opened the door to any kind of "marriage." This undermines the value of marriage altogether at a time when we should be restoring marriage, not undermining it.

Proposition 8 is NOT an attack on gay couples and does not take away the rights that same-sex couples already have under California’s domestic partner law. California law already grants domestic partners all the rights that a state can grant to a married couple. Gays have a right to their private lives, but not to change the definition of marriage for everyone else.

Passing Proposition 8 protects our children and places into the Constitution the simple definition that a marriage is between a man and a woman.

Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes...

2008-09-22T20:51:00.001-05:00

Karston learns his body parts:

Karston's Birth Story

2008-09-21T00:40:00.007-05:00

Dear Karston,

I do not have a birth story of my own, so it was important to me to write this down for you. This is your birth story.

At 6:30am I was laying in bed trying to get a few more minutes of sleep before getting up for work when I thought I felt my water break. It was Thursday, September 4, Opening Day of the 2008-2009 NFL football season. I got up to use the restroom and called to your dad, "Nathan, I think my water broke". He responded from his slumber, "What time is it?" After a few minutes I coaxed your dad to get up to talk things through. I was a little confused because I wasn't feeling any contractions yet. This was nothing like a TV drama. I called your Aunt Rachael and she advised that I call the doctor. I had been going to the same doctor who delivered your cousins Korbin and Shannon. The emergency message on Dr. Doppelheuer's machine advised that I call Dr. William Garcia. Your dad called and spoke with Dr. Garcia. I was unhappy to learn that Dr. Doppelheuer was away and since my water broke, I needed to go to the hospital right away even though I wasn't feeling any contractions. Dr. Garcia was worried that if I stayed home I would be exposed to infection.

Your due date wasn't until September 14, so your dad and I had only had partially packed bags for the hospital. We took our time packing and I ate a big breakfast of Honey Nut Cheerios, toast with peanut butter, an orange, a Nutri-grain bar, a glass of apple juice and a bottle of water. I knew once we got to the hospital I would be on an IV and wouldn't be allowed any food. Your dad posted a blog to let friends and family know we were going to the hospital, then he put some music and Hypnobirthing MP3's on his iPod for me, and loaded the car. I knew your Grandma Linda and Grandpa Joe would be up early to go to the temple so I called to let them know we were going to the hospital. I emailed your Uncle Brandon and Aunt Rachael to tell them we were on our way. I joked that I had a sneaking suspicion I was going to miss watching the Redskins at Giants football game that evening. After making it through morning rush hour traffic on I-495, we stopped at a McDonald's near the hospital so your dad could have a few breakfast burritos.

Around 9:30 am we checked in at the hospital and were taken to triage. It was a large area with many beds with curtains between them. The nurses who helped me were Karen and Renee. Karen put a sensor on my belly to listen to your heartbeat. I loved watching it on the monitor. A second sensor was put on me to monitor my contractions. I was surprised to learn that I was having contractions three minutes apart. The nurses couldn't believe I wasn't feeling them. Renee asked questions about my health and filled out forms. Karen told me I was dilated to 4 cm. All 22 labor and delivery rooms at the hospital were full so I would need to wait in triage. I read a book and listened to your dad's iPod.

Sometime after 10:30am, room 313 in the labor and delivery unit became available. Karen rolled my bed from triage to L&D and introduced me to my new nurses, Barbara and Stephanie. When Karen informed Barbara that I was dilated to 4 cm's yet cool and calm, Barbara was really surprised because I wasn't feeling any pain. She had a dry and funny sense of humor and placed a consent form for an epidural on the table next to my bed. I laid on my left side and listened to the Hypobirthing MP3's on the iPod. After 2:00 pm I was dilated to 7 cm's, Barbara was intrigued with how calm I was and had to know what I was listening to on my iPod. I joked that I had one more Hypnobirthing class coming up that weekend and she could attend it in my place if she wanted.

Around 6:00 pm I began feeling contractions. I had stopped listening to the MP3's and lost my concentration and felt pain mainly in my back. By 7:00 pm I began asking questions about having an epidural. I actually signed the consent form. Barbara and Karen's shift ended and I was introduced to my new nurses Susan and Alicia. Around 8:00 pm Dr. Garcia and Susan told me if I had the epidural it was likely I would want to rest for a couple hours before trying to have you. The alternative was that I was fully dilated and could begin pushing anytime. I talked things over with your Aunt Rachael and decided to go naturally and begin pushing.

Each time I felt a contraction I pushed in 3 sets lasting 10 seconds each. Susan and your dad were on either side saying positive things to help me. At one point Susan asked me to roll to my left side between contractions. She said your heart rate was dropping and was using a tactic to keep it from slowing down. I'm not sure how many times I had to roll to my left side but it felt good to be able to lie on my side between contractions. Dr. Garcia came in periodically to check my progress. I wasn't sure if my efforts were helping until Susan asked if I wanted to reach down to feel your head. I was unsure whether I wanted to because I was afraid I would only be able to feel the very top of your head. I was afraid I hadn't made much progress. I decided to feel your head though and found that it felt like it was most of the way out. Doing that gave me renewed energy. Dr. Garcia had just been in the room and left. Susan had to run and get him. I think it took me only three more pushes. Your dad later told me once your head was out Dr. Garcia worked your shoulders back and forth and you popped right out. It was 9:26 pm. I had missed most of the Redskins game but didn't care.

I don't think your dad had it in his agenda to cut your umbilical cord but Dr. Garcia offered so your dad did it. You had been very active in the womb and had put two knots in your umbilical cord. I've learned that about 1% of babies are born with knots in their umbilical cord. If either of the knots had become too tight it would have cut off your oxygen. This often results in a miscarriage. It could also have been why your heart rate was dropping during labor. I think back to your 4D video and how fixated you were with picking up, sucking on, and dropping your umbilical cord over and over again. I imagine you did this for months. We are so blessed to have you. You were cool and calm. You made your first cry when Susan plopped you down on my belly. You were covered in white. I was still in a little bit of shock and didn't know quite what to do or say to you. The natural endorphins had given my body a lot of energy and I was shaking like I was cold. You were perfect. It wasn't until I went back to watch your birth video that I saw the shape of your head. The nurses and pediatricians in recovery kept telling me your head was very bruised. One nurse even said, "hopefully it will be ok." I remember thinking "hopefully?!!" Within two days the cone shape was gone. From the time I began pushing until you were born was a little less than 1 1/2 hours. Susan whisked you away to clean you up and perform your APGAR test (you scored 9 and 9). You were 7 lbs 1 oz and 20 inches long. Dr. Garcia gave me one stitch. Having you was truly an amazing birthing experience.

Love,
Mom

Karston's First Bath

2008-09-12T21:47:00.007-05:00

Valerie and I are a bit biased but we think we have a cute baby. Tonight Karston had his first bath (thanks to Stephanie S. for providing him with all the bath supplies) and he didn't seem to mind. Valerie made the bathroom really steamy and warm so he wouldn't freak out when we undressed him and we gave him a little wash.

Karston's First Football Season

2008-09-10T19:24:00.008-05:00

Well, football season has officially started and it's Karston's first football experience. Valerie, being a huge Washington Redskins fan, is trying to convince me that she is going to instill her diehard fanaticism on Karston. I don't personally have a "team" that I root for but it's painful for me to ever want to willingly root for the Redskins because they are so awful.

Nevertheless, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to take this 'classic' picture of Karston. I guess it is a fitting outfit for him since he was born during the middle of this year's Season Opener, which ironically was the Washington Redskins versus the New York Giants.

Recognizing Baby Cries

2008-09-10T08:21:00.017-05:00

My first frustrating night with Karston home wasn't all that frustrating and I'm sure every parent in the world has gone through the same type of situation.

Last night Karston was "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed." It was great to see him awake so much and BOTH of his eyes open at the same time (usually he prefers the Popeye look). However when it came to trying to get him to go to sleep around midnight he would have none of it!

I tried to console and rock him so that Valerie could get some sleep but he was having a tough time. He kept giving me mixed signals.

I have seen on various sights and have heard from various people that babies have different cries to tell you how they are feeling and what they need.

The Baby Corner has a great reference on infant communication. It lists the following as common types of infant cries:

Basic - A rhythmic pattern formed by a cry, then a brief silence, then a short whistle higher in pitch than the main cry, then another quick rest before the next cry.

Anger - A variation of the basic cry with more air forced through the vocal chords.

Hunger - A low pitched cry that rises and falls with a rhythm. The baby will usually root, suck on his or her hands and can't be calmed down.

Fatigue - A soft, rhythmic cry as the baby tries to pacify and go to sleep.

Boredom - A fake cry that stops when picked up.

Discomfort - A whiny sound like the fake cry, but doesn't stop when picked up. Baby usually needs a diaper change or is too hot or cold.

Pain - Differs from the other types of cries, and it stimulated by high-intensity stimuli. It is characterized by both a sudden loud cry without moaning, and a long initial cry followed by a breathing period.

Last night Karston was making cries that told me he had to burp but it turned out that he was hungry.

It isn't an exact science but it's nice to know typical sounds an infant makes so that you can narrow down what he or she needs.

Karston's First Trip to the Pediatrician

2008-09-08T22:51:00.004-05:00

This morning Valerie, Karston and I made a family trip to the pediatrician for the first time. Dr. Fleming was really great to work with - it helped that she's around our age - easy to relate to.

Karston had his first weigh-in and measured for length (height??). Dr. Fleming noticed he has a dimple on his sacrum so she suggested that we get it checked out at the hospital. She also didn't have records of his test for bilirubin so told us to do that as well while at the hospital. He doesn't look too yellow but it is slightly elevated more than where it should be.

I also forgot my cell phone charger in the recovery room and Val wanted to rent a breast pump until hers comes in the mail. So off to the hospital we went.

The ultrasound on his spine went very well and came back positive so there is nothing to worry about there. His bilirubin test results were supposed to go back to Dr. Fleming so we'll wait to see about that, but I don't think it will be anything serious.

We asked Dr. Fleming for sleeping advice since in his first two nights home Karston hasn't wanted to sleep on his back at all! He even wakes up and pitches a fit if you lay him down on his back. I'm sure it is something that he will get used to since he's been balled up and in an enclosed space for nine months so I'm sure that he prefers that still. Today we got him to sleep in his bouncy chair (thanks great-aunt Stephie!!) and right now is actually napping on his back on the couch between the two of us. So maybe there is hope. He just does not like to sleep in his bassinet. We're hoping to break that trend soon so we can get some much needed sleep!

We've had lots of good friends dropping by and emailing/calling us to congratulate us. We appreciate all of you, especially those who have given us advice (Melissa, Jenny, Rachael, etc.)

Being parents is awesome! We love it! I really like this kid and think we'll keep him! I love bonding with him. When he gets fussy or extremely wiggly, I will put my lips on the side of his head and softly whisper calming words to him and give him soft kisses. It helps to put him to sleep. We think that he really likes me!

My next goal is to teach him to hold his own pacifier in!

Got to go change a diaper!!

Karston's First Night Home

2008-09-07T11:10:00.003-05:00

Last night Karston had his first night in our home. As many new parents have probably experienced, all three of us had a rough night.

The little guy did NOT want to sleep in his bassinet and would only nibble for a few minutes then fall asleep mid-feeding. We went through a number of diaper changes last night and struggled to get his belly full so he'd sleep - so WE could sleep!!

After wrestling back and forth I finally made him some formula - which we didn't want to do since Valerie needs to feed him to keep the milk flowing - and I hand feed him for over an hour to let Valerie sleep.

When that was done we still tried to get him to sleep in his bassinet but he pitched a fit and refused to sleep in it. So, we ended up having him sleep between us on the bed and as soon as we did he was out cold. We don't like the idea of him sleeping between us on the bed but it worked for one night.

Right now, as I write this, he is sleeping in his bassinet, so who knows what his deal is. I'm hoping that we haven't held him too much in his first two days that he has a need for one of us to be holding him.

All three of us are new at this so I'm sure it'll just take some time, eventually we'll get him on a schedule and some of our sanity back.

Right now Valerie is trying to feed him every three hours but when he has been asleep he's been real difficult to wake up from his slumber! We're also trying to get him to be able to sleep through noise and light. C'mon little dude! Work with us!!! Valerie has a tough time sleeping through both so we'd like him to be able to. I have slept through earthquakes in Southern California before, so I hope he gets the gene from me!

Please Welcome Karston James Coffey

2008-09-05T00:03:00.005-05:00

At 9:26 PM in Falls Church, Virginia, Valerie gave birth "naturally" to a healthy boy we named Karston James Coffey.

He weighed 7 lbs. 1 oz. and is 20 inches long.

Valerie didn't have too much pain and never really felt her contractions until the very end. She almost decided on an epidural because she was having lower back tightness but no discomfort with the baby. Later when the doctor was ready to give it to her she decided that since she was so far along (after he told her where she was) she would go for it naturally and get it done.

For a birthing class we used the Hypnobirthing technique, which I already blogged about.

Our sister-in-law, Rachael Heiner, videotaped the delivery while I snapped shots, some of which I have included here.

Here are a number of images I took today at the hospital of little Karston!

OFF TO THE HOSPITAL!

2008-09-04T06:34:00.003-05:00

This morning Valerie woke me up by telling me that she thought her water had broken around 6:30 a.m. (all times Eastern). After consulting our baby guru, our sister-in-law Rachael, and calling a resident doctor on-call, we decided to pack up the remaining things we needed to pack and head off to the hospital!

The crazy thing is: she hasn't had a single contraction yet! Bizarre! We're hoping that they don't have to do pitocin as it speeds things up too fast and doesn't allow your body to naturally release endorphins which help with relaxation of all muscles involved so as to prevent any unnecessary tearing. I think that's her biggest fear: an episiotomy.

More updates in a bit!

A Rare Note from Val

2008-08-22T11:02:00.008-05:00

I feel really thankful. Over the past week I've been the beneficiary of some remarkable service. The first is my fabulous sister-in-law Rachael. I hate the term sister-in-law when I describe Rachael because I've known her for 16+ years. She's my sister and I look to her for advice on many levels-- most recently as my source of all things pregnancy, childbirth, and baby.

Rachael did the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me. She cleaned our townhouse last week before we moved in. I'm not sure how many hours she spent there. It had to have been at least 10. She cleaned our kitchen, wiped out the cupboards, cleaned all the floors, and the bathrooms. She did everything. Considering she has a full-time gig as a corporate executive, a seven-year old and twins under the age of two, this means a lot to me.

I am also thankful to Mike N., Mike Y., Scott, Paul, Corey, my brother Brandon, and my niece Ellie for all their help with our move last Saturday. They started loading the truck at 10:00 a.m. and had delivered and unloaded everything at our new house by 12:30pm. It was amazingly fast. Brandon and Ellie came early and stayed late to help with organizing and cleaning too.

My thanks also goes out to Holly who threw a fabulous baby shower Wednesday night. The food, especially the cake, was out of this world. I appreciate all her planning, inviting, preparing, and cleaning-up. And thank you to my friends from the Capitol Hill Ward who came to celebrate. It was a perfect night!

Last but not least, thank you to Nathan for putting up with my whining, bending over to pick things up for me and rubbing my back for a few minutes every night now. He is the sweetest and sexiest man on earth!

--Val

We Moved In!

2008-08-16T21:56:00.004-05:00

We're exhausted but moved in to our new home - our first home, although from the mouth of our 7-year old niece, it's "a townhome, not a real home."

Valerie and I tackled unpacking the bedroom boxes this afternoon then we watched the Redskins versus the New York Jets at her brother's house.

I promise to get inside pictures up as soon as possible but a) very tired and b) you wouldn't see anything but boxes and boxes - very unattractive.

We've already met some of the neighbors as they seem to be a mix of young couples with young kids and elderly couples.

Now the fun begins, furnishing and maintaining the place. I guess we have finally become the "responsible" adults, with our own place and the exciting bills that go along with said place.

Now its bedtime. I took Monday off so I'll be here unpacking all day long! I know, you're jealous of me!

Moving Day!

2008-08-14T23:39:00.002-05:00

It's here.

Moving Day is upon us.

As I sit here watching women's Olympic gymnastics, I decided to grab the camera and decided to take some pictures of what our living room currently looks like.

Boxes everywhere.

We officially move Saturday morning at 10 am. It shouldn't take a lot of time to load the truck and then unload it 15 miles away from DC in Alexandria, Virginia.

Our street is called Doctor Craik Court. It is a strangely odd name for a street in the United States. At first we thought it was due to the fact that it is near a hospital but we were recently informed of some American history that goes along with our new place.

Evidently our plot of land was once part of a much larger plot of land owned by General George Washington. So who was Doctor Craik? General Washington's personal physician.

Also, a nearby street is called Tis Well Court. Yet another strangely-named street. As you may have guessed, this too has to do with General Washington. 'Tis Well' were the last words of a dying Gen. Washington, as recorded by Tobias Lear.

House Closing!

2008-08-12T09:02:00.008-05:00

We own it!!

This afternoon Valerie and I signed the final papers on our home and are now home owners!! We are very excited.

The 2,400 square foot townhome has three bedrooms, three and-a-half baths, and a good-sized basement. The front yard is relatively small and the back is a nice patio. There is a good, little park behind our complex for the kid to play at and the association has a tennis court and pool.

It is also in one of the best school districts in the area, which is a bonus if we were to stay there for five years or so -- which is definitely NOT in my plans!

The hardest thing to swallow has been the fact that our bank account just went from very full to depleted - but it's a good thing -- "house poor." It's a good investment.

Last night we did the final walkthrough but I forgot to take a picture of us next to the SOLD sign in the front yard so after we signed the papers today I used the wife's camera phone to take a picture in front of the townhome (it's an end unit so we have more room and light than the others).

Redskins Versus Bills

2008-08-09T22:46:00.008-05:00

Tonight Valerie and I went to watch the Washington Redskins host the Buffalo Bills in a preseason NFL contest.

Our real estate agent, Ed Pagett, was kind enough to give us his season tickets for the game.

If you know Valerie that well, you know that she is a die hard Redskins fan. Some of her weeks are determined by how they play that Sunday.

I for one am not a die hard fan of any NFL team, as I grew up in Southern California where both the Rams and Raiders deserted us.

When I married into her family they tried to convert me to a Redskins fan, but let's just say that the Redskins strategies and game plans and I don't get along. So it has been hard to be a loyal fan of a team that week in and week out disappoints my wife and brings heartache year after year.

But I sort of pull for them in the hopes that they will win so my wife will be happy.

Tonight's preseason game was average at best, but her Redskins won 17-14 and that makes her happy.

Here are two photos of her and our child sporting their collective #47 Chris Cooley jersey:

Does Labor Really Have to Be Excruciating?

2008-08-06T00:03:00.007-05:00

I am a big believer of the power of the mind over the body, as I have seen it evident in my daily life.

Tonight I was talking to a friend from high school about labor pains and I was telling her about a number of people I know of who have had "relatively" pain-free deliveries using relaxation techniques ('pain-free', I know, easy for a guy to say, huh?)

I was telling her that some women mentally prepare themselves to have calm, relaxing, natural childbirth chiefly using what is known as HypnoBirthing, or the Mongan Method. Hypnobirthing is a unique method of relaxed, natural childbirth education, enhanced by self-hypnosis techniques. HypnoBirthing provides the missing link that allows women to use their natural instincts to bring about a safer, easier, more comfortable birthing. Emphasis is placed on pregnancy and childbirth, as well as on pre-birth parenting and the consciousness of the pre-born baby.

The point of this post isn't to explain what hypnobirthing is, you can do that on your own time by clicking on the above link or on Wikipedia.

Marie Mognan, the founder of Hypnobirthing, says that our media is partially to blame how women view birth and that they expect it to be painful due to hospital dramas like ER, but that it doesn't have to be painful at all.

Another way mentioned why the western world might view delivery as a painful experience is due to the Bible.

I use the King James Version of the Bible. I know many of you probably use other versions such as the New International Version.

In the KJV Genesis 3: 16 is translated as:

16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

In the NIV the same verse reads:

16 To the woman he said, "I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with pain you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you."

Other versions translate this verse similarly.

Obviously there is a BIG difference in these highlighted phrases.

I wonder why the KJV (in 1604) translators chose the word 'sorrow' while the NIV translators (in 1965)chose the word 'pain.' Both were translated from the Masoretic Hebrew text.

So then, what does the Masoretic Hebrew text have to say about Genesis 3:16?

The Masoretic Hebrew text uses the word `itstsabown (pronounced: its-tsaw-bone') in this spot, which Dr. Strong translates as "worrisomeness, i.e. labor or pain:--sorrow, toil."

It is interesting how in 1604, the KJV translators decided to translate `itstsabown as 'sorrow' while in 1965, the NIV translators decided to use the word 'pain.'

Surprisingly, neither decided to use the word 'toil.'

The point I am trying to make here is that there are other methods of delivering babies which put the emphasis on the TOIL, instead of the pain. They seek to unlock the methods that will allow the woman to be in tune with her body and the baby during delivery.

However, from the Hypnobirthing website:

HypnoBirthing does not promise painless birthing, though many HypnoBirthing mothers do report having a relatively pain-free birth or one that they were able to manage easily. When the cause of pain--fear that constricts the birthing muscles - is eliminated, birthing can be accomplished in a shorter period and much more comfortably. A relaxed mother's body will produce more endorphins, nature's own relaxants. HypnoBirthing mothers may still experience sensations of tightening or pressure; but most describe their birth experience as working with their body through the sensations, and thus avoiding the excruciating pain that is frequently spoken of by women who choose other methods of preparation for birthing.

I am not sure what the reason is behind why women are conditioned to believe that birth has to be an excruciating painful process, perhaps its the media, perhaps its the Bible, perhaps its' another method (word of mouth??).

But, there are women out there who have had relatively painless, and even calm births of their children. Here is just one of many stories that can be Googled. Read at your heart's desire.

If it works - wonderful. If not - that's why there are drugs!

Back from Chicago

2008-08-03T20:01:00.005-05:00

I just spent the entire last week in Chicago for my first-ever professional work conference.

Not to bore you with work-related stuff but I think I fell in love with midtown and downtown Chicago while there. I definitely need to go back as a tourist and take a looksie through all the cool sites that they offer in their fine city.

Since this was my first conference for my job, I didn't know how much down time I would have or not have so I opted to leave my camera home in DC on this trip. I definitely now regret doing that. I found myself in so many awesome photo-ops I kicked myself every time. So in lieu of any photos I would have taken, here is a night shot of the Chicago skyline that I found via Google Images:

There were a few nights that I was able to get out on to the town with some co-workers and on Saturday I went on a Chicago River boat tour with a British co-worker. It was an informative tour that highlighted all of the architecture that lines the riverfront and the stories behind each one of them. I'd recommend the Shoreline Sightseeing Cruise/tour to any visitor.

My sister-in-law and I tried to go eat at Giordano's on Michigan Avenue (also known as the Magnificent Mile) but the wait was an hour and a half! Unreal! I mean, pizza is good and all, but not 1:30-wait good. So we tried another place but that restaurant had a 40 minute wait and we ended up at TGI Friday's. So I didn't get an opportunity to eat at any authentic Chicago restaurant and will have to do that when I go back.

I also tried to go see the Dark Knight at the Navy Pier Imax (as my friend Erik told me that's the best way to experience the movie) but it was sold out ALL WEEK!

That's another thing that I need to hit up when I go back to Chicago... the Navy Pier. From their website:

Historic Navy Pier® is Chicago's lakefront playground. And it's the Midwest's #1 tourist and leisure destination, attracting more than 8.6 million visitors a year.

Navy Pier is the place where all of Chicagoland and tourists from around the world have come together since 1995 to enjoy the beauty and the thrills of a day on Lake Michigan. From rides to restaurants, exhibitions to entertainment, shopping to dining cruises and tour boats Navy Pier has it all - in a location unlike any other!

Of all the things I'll be sure to pack in my next trip to Chicago, my DSLR camera will top the list!

Guess Our Baby's Birthdate!

2008-07-23T18:51:00.012-05:00

Valerie and I have set up an online pool so that our friends and families can enter their guesses on our baby's due date, time, weight and length.

This game is like golf... lowest score wins!

As we've already spilt, it's a boy, so if you choose GIRL as your gender guess you will lose 400 points.

You DO NOT need to register to play. When you click on the link below you will be taken directly to the game page.

Proceed to the top right of the screen and click on "Enter a guess."

Of you register first, you will be able to go back and change your answer.

Here are the point break downs:

incorrect gender: + 400 points if you ignored my instructions and think it's a girl
date & time: + 5 points per hour away from actual birth time
weight: + 5 points per ounce away from actual weight
length: + 10 points per inch away from actual length

To participate, go to ExpectNet.com or go to ExpectNet.com and enter Baby_Coffeybean as the game name in the space indicated on the home page.

The winner MAY get a chance to babysit!!!! :)

Republicans vs. Democrats: the 47th Congressional Baseball Game

2008-07-17T22:47:00.013-05:00

On a whim I went to the 47th Annual Congressional Baseball game at Nationals Park.

Democrats versus Republicans.

Baseball like it was meant to be played.

What? Politicians playing baseball? Yes, it was baseball, not softball. Before you go laughing, know that these politicians are actually pretty good for their age. Most are former college athletes. I was impressed. Read on...

Led by manager Rep. Joe Barton (TX-6), the Republicans came in searching for the five-series sweep against their counterparts. To the winner went the coveted Roll Call Trophy along with bragging rights.

Last year's winning pitcher Rep. John Shimkus (R, IL-19) faced off against Rep. Joe Baca (D, CA-43). This year, the two Congressmen were both tapped to face off again.

Following the amazing defense of 2B Rep. Kevin Brady (R, TX-8), who threw out two Democrats at home plate to preserve an early 3-1 lead, the Democrats' so-called "good luck charm" Madam Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D, CA-8), showed up to the ballpark to a thunderous roar from the third base fans. With the appearance of Madam Speaker Pelosi, the second half of the game turned into a seesaw affair, as both sides put up multi-run innings.

After the Democrats took a one run lead in the top of the sixth, Rep. Chip Pickering (R, MS-3) led off the bottom of the sixth with a game-tying, inside-the-park home run, followed by a triple from Rep. Zach Wamp (R, TN-3).

The GOP put up a total of five runs in the sixth and headed into the final inning with a comfortable 8-4 lead. However, the Democrats weren't ready to call it a night yet.

After the Republicans' lone Senator, relief pitcher Sen. John Ensign (R, NV-1), loaded the bases and allowed a run to score in the seventh, the Republicans brought Rep. Shimkus back in as a relief pitcher. Rep. Shimkus fanned the first two Democrats he faced in relief, but the majority party proceeded to score six runs in the inning to take a 10-8 lead heading into the bottom of the seventh.

After relief pitcher Rep. Bart Stupak (D, MI-1) showed signs of fatigue, the Democrats brought Rep. Baca back in to face the Republicans in the bottom of the seventh. But the GOP was not intimidated by Rep. Baca.

A few intentional walks, and bloop singles aided the GOP in bringing the game within one run to tie. The grandson of one of the greatest Major League managers of all-time, Hall of Famer Connie Mack, Jr., Rep. Connie Mack IV (R, FL-14) strolled into the batters box 0-for-2 on the evening. Looking to make his grandfather proud, Rep. Mack hit a ball between first and second base into shallow right field to bring home the tying run. On an errant throw into the infield, pinch-runner Rep. Adam Putnam (R, FL-12) chugged around third base and headed for home and the GOP's 10th victory.

As the throw came towards home plate, Rep. Putnam was well ahead of the ball and the Republicans took the game 11-10.

The Republicans have clearly dominated the Roll Call Congressional battle with a "franchise" record of 33-14. The Democrats have not won a game since 2000.

The event, which sold tickets for $8, usually raises over $100,000 for local Washington, D.C. nonprofits. The proceeds from tonight's game benefited the Washington Literacy Council and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington.

Images I took tonight are in a folder on Flickr. Since I am far from a professional sports photographer, I decided not to edit them. Sorry.

Rumors of Real Estate

2008-07-14T22:28:00.005-05:00

Valerie and I have spent a lot of hours this past week with a family friend who happens to be a real estate agent. He has worked with her family in the Northern Virginia area for over 20 years.

Now that I have a full-time job and with Valerie's job going well in Georgetown, we have been house hunting in her old stomping grounds of Alexandria. We need to get out of our one bedroom basement apartment soon - preferably before the baby boy comes! I've heard that babies tend to come with lots of "stuff."

With the market the way it is we decided to lock in an excellent interest rate (in hopes that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac issues wouldn't kill us) and found a beautiful townhome in Alexandria.

We have toured it twice and still like it, and met with our real estate agent this evening to go over the preliminary paperwork. We are going to put in an offer and see what the owner comes back with. It may be a long shot, but we are closer to buying our own house! I'll just be happy with a house that we like so Valerie doesn't need to spend hours house hunting anymore and can enjoy her spacious digs for once!

I'm sure the amount we are offering will be countered, but it's a start and if anything, it's been a learning experience and a "dry run." We'll keep looking but hopefully we will be able to find something and move into it BEFORE the little tyke comes.

It's been frustrating for me to think that Valerie and I were born just a few years too late to get into a house in our mid-20s. Other members of our family were able to buy nice homes for a lot less than they are nowadays. The market skyrocketed a bit too early for our situation, unfortunately. Hopefully housing prices keep falling and interest rates don't increase to drastically.

Another issue that has frustrated me was a) not having a job/income for the past few weeks and b)while house hunting, finding gorgeous relatively-new homes in the $280K range in states such as Georgia (NW of the Atlanta beltway), and North Carolina (Raleigh-Durham) where there are good schools, good people and unfortunately no jobs that would hire me. I know. I looked. I applied. Nothing. I was hoping to find something in those areas so we could move right into a gorgeous home, but I guess right now it's the DC metro area and a townhome. Regardless, it's time to build some equity.

So... I am off to sign the paperwork, so Valerie can return it to our agent in the morning and he can get the ball rolling with the art of real estate!

Babies, real estate, new job.... lots to be thankful for!

DC Alley Life

2008-07-12T17:34:00.003-05:00

I haven't been too active in taking photos around D.C. since I have been job hunting and recently started a new job. Today I had some time after shopping for a new wardrobe and thought I'd take some pictures of some of the alley shots near our apartment that have caught my eye over the last few days.

Click on the thumbnails to see the larger images.

New Job, New Horizons

2008-07-07T17:03:00.005-05:00

It's official.

Today I was offered and accepted a full-time job with the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) in Washington, D.C. I am the Public Affairs Coordinator.

My sister-in-law, Rachael Heiner, has worked for ALEC for over a year now and she was instrumental in getting me the job - or at least letting me know it was available and that I would be a perfect fit for the position.

Now...it isn't baseball, it isn't even sports-related, but I spent a good few weeks looking for a sports-related job but kept coming up empty. This is a great opportunity to continue my PR skills, with a great firm.

The American Legislative Exchange Council is the nation's largest nonpartisan, individual membership association of state legislators. My primary responsibilities include updating and maintaining the ALEC website, copy-editing all ALEC publications, creating and editing publications and assisting the Director of Public Affairs in working with the media. I also get to travel to national meetings three times a year in various cities.