AMH

Well, things are getting interesting in our little IVF world. A few weeks ago, I had several blood tests done to test different things (fertility-related). One of them was called an Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test which gives an indication of ovarian reserve. There were a couple others, including a thyroid test (I have to watch for this since my mom had thyroid problems a few years ago...but no longer does...). RESULTS: all normal. REACTION: shit, man. It's a good thing these are normal, but frankly, it makes this whole journey more complicated and confusing. If my reserve is ok, why am I not pregnant? I know it's not a definitive test that gives specific answers, but it's frustrating nonetheless.

In house news: we're in the process of interviewing and getting estimates for carpet, painting, ceramic tiling, and exterior work. The stager told us that we'd be doing ourselves a favor by siding the mansard roof (see photo). Admittedly, it is ugly, but it seems like it would be a HUGE job to do what was recommended. But at this point, if this is what it takes to sell this house, we're all for it. The problem is, we need to have a gutter built along the top of it (or extending out what's already there to the right of it). That takes some serious construction, the kind that needs permits and shit. It's becoming less and less desired as we get guys out to look at it, so this is still under serious debate. Hopefully, we can get a lot of this work going next week and have it finished by the end of the week so we can have the house back on the market.

Bailey (dog) is doing so much better. I'd say she's pretty much back to normal. There have been no more incidences of her being startled and waking up in a cramped position. She wakes up from napping and is moving just as she was before. That's a HUGE relief to us. It was awful seeing her like that.

Kate said that Salsa (the cat who's living in her basement) is having a rough time right now. She cries all day and night, but still won't come upstairs (there's a cat door!). Kate and Rob both spend time down there (the kids do as well), but with the kids in school, it's much quieter. The other cat, Lucy, goes up and down there all the time, but Salsa will not come out, so she sits and cries. It's pathetic. Once we move, we'll be taking her in (much to Paul's chagrin). Yet another reason to sell this house ASAP.

I went ahead and gave Paul the Wii for our anniversary. He was surprised but quite happy! We debated hooking it up here or waiting until we move, but as my family so lovingly pointed out to me many, many times, we might be here in this house for another year so why not hook it up now? I'm still stuck on that being here another year part.... Depressing.

If anyone has a chandelier to get rid of or sell, let me know! We're looking for one to paint, but it has to be a specific design (per Mr. Martha "Paul" Stewart himself). I've been scouring garage sales and almost had one last weekend, but got there 5 minutes too late. Story of my life.... ☺

Gustav is hitting us now, so no scooter riding for a few days. Hopefully by the weekend, I'll be out and about! STAY DRY!