Two Topics

1. The Washing Machine

Did you ever wonder what the inside of a washing machine actually looked like? Well, on Sunday we got to find out. M had started a load of laundry and then left to walk the dog. When she returned she thought the washer was done, but when she opened the lid all I heard was, "Why has the washer stopped? It's still full of water." I went into the laundry room and sure enough the washer was full of water and clothes, and it had stopped right before the drain and spin cycle. We played around with the knob, tried different settings, and said a few curse words. Then, almost at the same time, we said, "Time to ask Google." What did we do before the wonderful world of Google? So, we Googled it and found out the safety device had probably broken - you know that little opening that says the door is closed and it is now safe to spin. M read online a little and I got the screwdriver and the next thing you know our washer looked like this....




We found the device, used some duct-tape (if you can't duct it...), and put it back together. It worked like a charm. Problem solved. We did order the part online and will replace it when it arrives later this week. The part cost $26.00. I love having a brave and resourceful wife.

2. Yes, we are just having one child.

I actually had someone ask me if we were planning on having more children. I haven't finished cooking baby #1 and they are already asking about baby #2. The answer is clear -- no. Just one baby for us and here are some reasons why:

a. Neither one of us are spring chickens.

b. We like to make and save money - a lot. It is like a game to us. How much can we save? How much can we make? If we move this account here we can make .25 percent more. How many months until we reach our next goal? About twice a month we sit down and review all of our money, and we make ourselves feel good. I think we do this because we have both been in places were we didn't have any money and we don't want to be there again.

c. Trying to conceive is one of the most stressful things I have ever done. The cycles of two weeks and then two more weeks, the peeing on sticks, the constant pressure, the need to leave work at a moment's notice, and the expense. We were so lucky that it only took us six months but those were a long six months, and I can only give major props to those whose struggle for years. They are strong people who deserve respect.

d. We're not concerned about only having one because we both have loving, awesome families who support us and will support our babygirl and make sure that she never feels alone in this world.

e. Did I mention we weren't spring chickens?

E-

P.S. 31 weeks and I feel good. My back aches daily, but nothing too severe. My clothes are getting tighter (that sucks) and I toss and turn at night, but overall -- I still feel good. 7 weeks till she is fully cooked, and 11 weeks is the longest I will remain pregnant.