Don't get me wrong, it's not horrible. Ev & his friends (plus some hired help) have updated the house to a livable point. When they moved in, the house needed a AC unit, windows, tile, popcorn ceilings removed etc. They also renovated the kitchen and guest bathrooms. They finished that list and kinda just pushed the decorating and landscaping to the side. I don't feel like this is considered calling them out because they put so much work into the house but stopped because there was much bigger fish to fry (opening the gym.)
Now it's up to Thor and I to revamp the place. First we needed a direction. I'm thinking south...
To Mexico!! Not literally, (I couldn't chance making the drive through Mexico in my third trimester) but I shall bring Mexico to me via shipping & small shops I hope to eventually find in this town. More than just Mexican influences, some Spanish, Tuscan and Mediterranean all mixed together.
I think my Aunt Valerie (Dad's sister) has had a huge influence on my interest in interior design. As far back as I can remember she has renovated their homes with a "Casa" feel to it. Essentials include: terra cotta, hand painted mexican tiles, wrought iron, and large furniture pieces from reclaimed wood in different shades. Bold splashes of orange, teal, navy blue, red and yellow to liven the place up just enough to not pass the point where its overwhelming. Of course, the area that they live in is known for this style. Coastal California is known for this style of homes, the "Modern Haciendas."
I've started on landscaping as well. I'm using succulents and veneer cut stones to border the patio. It's not completed, but thats what we're starting with. Our patio furniture comes tomorrow and the gazebo should be here sometime this week. Everything's coming together!
Even the nursery is close to being finished. Just waiting on the carpet to be installed before updating with pictures.
Lee Ila is ready to come out. Well, not really, but I'm ready to meet her. Her movements feel like she's scratching at my insides. I've experienced Braxton Hicks contractions in the last few weeks but they are infrequent, irregular and feel like mild cramps.
When we met with our midwife, we were pleased to hear the baby doing just fine. She taught us how to feel the difference between Ila's butt and face. Most shocking news, Ila's tall! Who would've known...
I especially like the quality and quantity of information given to Evan and I about what options are available. The midwife explained in full detail of the procedure of a few tests and allowed us to decide if we wanted to do it. Being low risk makes it easy for me to turn tests down.
Ev and I have also started our Bradley Method classes. So far so good, lots of homework, not really but we still haven't read the articles we were assigned to read last Tuesday. There's relaxation exercises we are suppose to be doing daily, but don't, not till I wake up in the middle of the night and feel cramped and need a good stretch. We'll get to it eventually ;)
~ Quick Pregnancy Update ~
I've gained 9 lbs from the date of conception.
My skin has broken out and semi-scarred from "popping" but finally healing.
I already had spider veins and they have not gotten any worse.
I have yet to grow varicose veins.
My belly button is officially an outie.
My nails and hair has never been longer.
I waddle.
No stretch marks... (knocks on wood.)
We look forward to our February visitors and accomplishments on the house. I'll update with pictures soon as I can.
