Day 2

Day 2….I have made it almost 48 hours…and I am typing this, so obviously Gregory has not tied me up yet.

Funny thing is when you are on bed-rest, there seems to be a lot more time to write; about random stuff. So, you might be hearing a bit more from me this week.

Did you know that Jake and Vienna from the bachelor broke up? I am shocked!! There are reasons why the Menvielle household does not have a T.V. However, at times like this, I think it might be a nice luxury. Usually, I go downstairs to the clubhouse to watch my favorite programs if I have the urge, but Gregory won’t let me go down there because there is a treadmill and elliptical. He doesn’t trust me; smart man…

All joking aside, I do realize that I have to be careful what I say/write in this blog. People who don’t know Gregory and I might read my blog and think that we are absolutely INSANE!!...well, there might be some truth to that.

A lot of people might think that Gregory is somewhat “insensitive” when it comes to me and me being pregnant. I mean, who calls their wife “Panamax” and makes ship horn noises when they try to roll over in bed? Well, Gregory does, and it makes me laugh! Gregory also knows that unless it is absolutely necessary, I can carry my own bags, carry the groceries, put up a pantry door and do lots of heavy work (even WHILE pregnant) and if he tries to stop me, I might beat the shit out of him (not kidding). I have always been independent and I always will be independent, because that is who I am…and that is why Gregory loves me.

I can’t think of many men who could spend a night in the ER after an Ironman because their wife is in a coma and wonder if they are going to make it; then allow them to continue to pursue their dreams even if it scares the crap out of them every time I toe that race starting line. But, that’s the beauty of our relationship, Gregory demonstrates his love for me by letting me weather my own storms in order to learn and grow. It’s harder on him than putting his foot down, saying no and protecting me. He does not shelter me and I grow from that. Let me tell you, I am a MUCH different person that I was 3 years ago and I can look back and say that I was crazy; but, how would I know that if I wasn’t given the room, support and love to grow?

It takes a strong man to deal with me; I am not easy to get along with at times, and sometimes it is hard for me to admit I need help. But, bless my husband, because he knows exactly what I need when I need it. He is also brings out the best in me; even when I am on bed-rest. He is my best friend and realizes that sometimes all the material things in the world will never replace a good conversation.

I truly am fortunate. After a week like last, I could be down in the dumps, but to be honest, I am ok. I am not devastated, broken or torn down. Yes, I am tired and drained, but, I have over a year to plan with my husband how to overcome my visa issues. That is much more than what many others have. I may have spent more time that I like in a hospital, but Emma is still in my belly cooking; it does not matter how much discomfort and pain I may be in, she is #1 at this time. That is part of being a mom…nothing means more than your child and family. And as for my grandpa….well, words cannot describe the loss and the sadness I feel today when my family will put him to rest. But, I also can smile, because I can remember him for what an amazing man he was.

My Pop (grandpa) was one of the most determined, motivated, and stubborn men that I knew. Yet he was so kind and gentle, often taking an afternoon to just sit and watch birds. He had such an aura about him; he would wink at me always reminding me “I know what you are up to kiddo.” He was also very smart; an intellectual man whose charm and intelligence made you love him. These memories and stories I will treasure and look forward to sharing with Emma when she is old enough.


This is one of my favorite pictures taken during our last visit to France. It is the beach at Dieppe. My pop fought on this beach during WWII. It puts so much into perspective; words cannot describe. He will be missed dearly.

So there you have it; day 2 bed rest from the Menvielles. Everyone is accounted for and hanging tough! We are an optimistic bunch, sick I know…