And the countdown begins. Six. More. Weeks. I can’t believe how quickly these 9 months have passed.  You hear a lot of horror stories about pregnancies and one of the first things people said when I told them when I was due (August 25) was an apologetic “ohh, I’m so sorry you have to be pregnant during the summer months. That will be so difficult and uncomfortable.”  My inner dialogue said, “Oh, that’s nice. Thanks for your support and encouragement.” Fact is, it hasn’t been bad at all. Yes, it’s hot.  But really- I wouldn’t be any more uncomfortable if I wasn’t pregnant. When it’s hot, everyone sweats. It’s sticky, and it’s humid.  Those things don’t change just because you’re pregnant. So, I tell this to all you first time moms : If you happen to get pregnant at a time that leaves you bigger than you ever have been in your life during the summer months- It’s really not that bad.  But, then again, I’ve always been an optimist. Things are as bad as you make them out to be.  And, being pregnant? Coolest thing I’ve done in my life so far.

My last blog left off with month 6.. so I’m here to catch you all up on months 7 and 8!  So much as happened since then.

Am I feeling more movement into the 7th and 8th month of pregnancy?

Yes! I feel him every morning and night.  He also responds to John’s voice when he comes home from work.  Which is pretty dang cool. It’s pretty amazing that our little guy already knows our voices. We talk to him a lot.

Anything funny happening during the pregnancy?

My belly button is disappearing. Some women develop an “outtie” belly button.  I haven’t. My belly is just swallowing my belly button.  Also, I never developed the black line that runs from the top of the pubic bone to the belly button, aka “linea nigra.”

I have to go to the bathroom a lot.  During the night I get up about 3-4 times. To put that in perspective- when I’m not pregnant, I don’t get up at all to go to the bathroom.

Do I have a name and am I telling anyone?

Yes. And, No. That will be the one surprise that everyone will have to wait for.  In fact, tomorrow his nursery will be complete. On the wall of his nursery is his name.  I will have to cover it up so that all visitors that come over before he arrives can’t get a glimpse of what we have decided to name him. Why are we keeping it a secret? Because it’s really personal, and we want to keep this between us for right now. And, I don’t want people responding with, “oooh, that’s nice. I once knew a kid in high school that was a total jerk.. and that was his name.”  Really? Thanks. Ruined it.

Have I had any Braxton-Hicks contractions?

These are contractions that you get early on. They aren’t a sign of labor, they are just preparing your body for what is to come. No, I haven’t felt any Braxton Hicks contractions so far in my pregnancy.

What have I done to take care of myself this month?

Prenatal massage to ease my headaches, and prenatal yoga with one of my best friends, Allison Chapin, who was pregnant throughout most of my pregnancy. She welcomed her twin baby girls on June 29th! Welcome Victoria and Isabella Chapin! So excited to see them grow up, and have them such a big part of my son’s life. Who knows.. maybe one of them will get lucky with the new Mr. Asbaty.

Allison and Mike Chapin with their 1 day old twins, Victoria and Isabella Chapin!

What are my favorite pregnancy/childbirth books at the moment?

Hypnobirthing. We just started our hypnobirthing class and LOVE it. This method will allow me to bring myself into a very deep state of relaxation. It will allow my body to do what it’s made to do.. without fear or concern. This will allow me the best opportunity for an all natural birth. Unmedicated. This is my intention. I am not 100% because I have never been through this before so I won’t count anything out. But, I know a lot of women have gone the natural route, and they are still living. I know I can do this. That’s why I am educating myself thoroughly on what to expect and how to manage the pain.

Secrets of the Baby Whisperer. This book was recommended on June 6th, by Kristin Hassan. This was one day before she gave birth to her super sweet baby girl, Violet Marie Hassan. Welcome Violet! Crazy how I was having lunch with her one day (a week before her official due date) and the next day she has a baby.

Violet Hassan

The Hassan Family

The Secrets of the Baby Whisperer is really great at establishing a routine early on.  Like, from day 1. It has a lot of good advice and will adapt it to our lifestyle and our little guy.  I think it’s important to have a routine, and a consistent lifestyle. They say he has a better chance of sleeping through the night earlier than most babies, if you adapt this structure into his life. I’ll let you know how that works out.

Happiest Baby on the Block:

Very cool book and DVD! I realllly hope that these techniques work for my crying baby. The Dr. who established these techniques seems like a magician in the DVD. He introduces the concept of “The calming reflex” that all babies have. He believes that babies are born 3 months too early. But, they have to be born because they are too big to stay in any longer. Because they are so immature for the first three months, its important to imitate sounds and movements that they have felt in the womb for 9 months.  It all really makes sense. But, is it too good to be true?

I also read a book called “Becoming Babywise” which says a lot of the same things that the two book above say.

Right now I am in the midst of reading a book called, “The Vaccine Book.” I have to admit, with all the hoopla surrounding vaccines and autism, it really makes me dig a little deeper into it all.  We don’t have a stand right now, but we will make sure we are completely educated before we put any vaccines into our little guy. It kind of freaks me out.

How is John dealing with my pregnancy?

I’m not sure he could be dealing better. He is such an amazing husband, and will be an incredible dad. He constantly reminds me to slow down, and that I can’t do everything I could do before, now that I’m pregnant. He reminds me to eat well, makes me great meals and really supports me in every single way. I could not ask for more. It’s especially cute when he talks to Baby Asbaty. He talks to him as if he’s a real person. He forgets that he’s inside of me, and forgets that I’m even there. He talks to him about his day, about me, and about how it will be when he joins us. It might be the sweetest thing in the entire world. That is, until I see him with our son.

Am I registered anywhere and when is my shower?

My shower is being held at the restaurant right across the street from where I live. Convenient! I joke that after the shower I will say, “Thank you SO much for coming, now if you could just grab the gift you brought and bring it on over to his room, that would be awesome.” Of course I won’t say that, but it would be cool if my guests read this blog and agreed it was a super cool idea to do that.

I am registered at:

Babies R Us (www.babiesrus.com)

Giggle (www.giggle.com)

Any favorite registry items?

Yes! I absolutely LOVE the glider that we chose. Although a bit expensive, we can definitely get a lot of use out of this glider. It’s one of those chairs that in 7 years, people won’t say, “Hey, isn’t this the chair that you breastfed in?” It’s a great piece of furniture that will be used for a long time.

Introducing our Grano Glider Recliner:

Also, a great item that we have already purchased is our stroller.  I was amazing at how overwhelming looking for a stroller would be! After careful consideration, we decided on the Uppababy Vista Stroller.  I loved the bassinet feature. It’s a great city stroller. It’s lightweight, safe, and pretty much awesome.

Our Stroller: (Silver)

Our High Chair is pretty futuristic. Again, after a careful consideration, we’ve decided on the Bloom Loft Fresco. There are a few reasons why. 1. It’s a 3 in one high chair.  It can be used from birth until toddler! 2. It’s a great piece of furniture. 4. It’s pretty dang cool. Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s 3 chairs in one!

I want to send out a BIG THANK YOU to John’s amazing family. They held a shower in New Jersey (without us ) I really tried to make it possible to be there, but when it came down to it, we just couldn’t get there. We appreciate his mother’s efforts more than we can ever say and because of his amazing family, we were able to buy the glider and stroller that were on our wish list. Thank You Asbaty Family!!

My feelings on giving birth:

The more research I do, the less scared I feel.  The 2 birthing classes we are taking are helping me understand what exactly happens in your body when laboring starts. I’ve learned a lot of very important information during The Bradley Method classes. One piece of information that stands out is the idea of not getting to the hospital too early. A lot of women rush to the hospital when they feel labor pains start. If you do, and you are there early, and they don’t send you home- then you risk a lot of medical intervention. That is not what I want. So, with the help of our great doula, Mrs. Bond, we will be able to determine at what point is best to get to the hospital. I’ve learned that a lot of C-Sections happen in hospitals because the laboring doesn’t happen as quickly as the hospital staff would like.

The one thing that is discouraging is all the women who look at me like I’m crazy for wanting to do this naturally. Like I said, I don’t know what will happen that day, but we can all have our goals when it comes to birth. Whenever I tell anyone that I am really wanting a birth with no intervention, they look at me like I’m crazy and say, “oh, yeah.. I wanted that too.. you think you can do it, but when it comes down to it- you won’t. It’s just too much pain.” Rarely do women say, “That’s really great that you want that.. it will be hard, but it’s been done many times before so you can definitely do it.”  I want to be that woman. I want to be the one who after birth says to other women.. “If you prepare yourself enough for what will be happening, then you can manage the pain. It’s not easy, but it’s possible. I know it because I did it.” If I can’t do it, and something happens that day to change my mind, I won’t be disappointed. I won’t feel like I failed. I’ll know I did everything possible. I’m not doing this to be a hero. I’m doing this to have a baby that is alert, aware, and ready for this world.

How’s my sleeping?

Not that great. I wake up a lot to go to the bathroom. I have to move around a lot to get comfortable. Some nights I sleep great– some nights I can’t sleep at all.

What am I wearing?

I still haven’t bought a maternity shirt. I buy normal shirts, that I don’t care if they stretch out- and they fit perfectly around my round belly. I do, however, still have to wear these awesome maternity jeans with the elastic waist band.  I highly recommend them. To everyone. Perhaps around Thanksgiving time.

Food of choice:

Pretty much anything that John makes. We have been grilling a lot lately, which makes for some awesome meals. As I blog right now, he is making us Grilled Swordfish with a sauce that he’s making up as he goes. Sicilian inspired. Turned out to be: Marinated Grilled Swordfish with a sauce of spring onions, fresh tomatoes, capers, pistachios, and an arugula salad with lemon and olive oil.

For lunch today we had a grilled scallop salad with corn, spring onions, shaved cucumbers, avocado, tomato, basil, lime juice, olive oil, and arugula. It was awesome. So awesome- I took a photo

Baby Asbaty Nursery:

Since I posted my last blog I have been busy getting Baby Asbaty’s room together. I am soooo excited that his room will be pretty much complete tomorrow! I decided to ask  the best graphic designer I know, Sherif Adel who resides in Egypt! (And, is a big bowler and bowling fan!) to do the wall art for his room. I really gave him no direction. I only told him I 1. Don’t want anything to “boyish” or “baby-ish” I wanted something modern, fun, but still have it look like a baby room. I didn’t give him any more than that. What he created was even better than I imagined he would. He nailed it. Here are a few glimpses of his amazing artwork that will be featured on two of the main walls in his room. More photos of his room to come. (When complete)

Design by: Sherif Adel —–WEBSITE: http://www.chubbystudio.com—- EMAIL: design@stonegrafx.com

Vinyl for the wall with Sherif’s awesome design printed by: http://www.wallmonkeys.com

You have to check them out! Such a cool concept.. great quality! Thanks to Jason Weisenthal for providing such a great, creative product!

Sherif’s Design:

Our sweet Crib and Changing table: Argington Sahara Crib and Sahara Changing Table

The next blog update? Quite possibly may be to introduce our little one! 6 More Weeks! Thanks for all your great thoughts, and support!

Until next time,

diandra and Baby Asbaty

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Many people have been asking me how I’m feeling and what I think about being pregnant. This blog post will be all about everything pregnancy.  I never thought I would love being pregnant as much as I do.

From the beginning….

Ah yes.. Sicily.  Vacation spot 2009. Also conception spot for the most important person in both John and my life.  We joke with my parents that if they want any other grandchildren, then they better send us back to Sicily.  We’re kidding. Kind of.

Finding out…

John and I didn’t find out until December 19, 2009.  I had just arrived home from making Team USA for the 12th straight year.  John and I were on our way out the door to our Hannukah Party at my grandma’s.  I didn’t feel any different, so I was sure that I wasn’t pregnant. I even told John- I don’t think we even need to test for it because I don’t feel any different than I have been feeling. He insisted that we take the pregnancy test.

We walked in the bathroom together to look at this special stick.  I kept looking at the test and saying, “No… really!?”  John said, “There are definitely two lines there.”  We were SOO excited.  John claims he knew– he just had a feeling.  We didn’t tell anyone that night, which was hard to do– but both felt the excitement of the beginning of this journey together.

Who we told and when . . .

My sister, Kassy, was the first to know.  We called her immediately that day. She wanted to be the first to know, and I knew I could trust her to not tell anyone before we decided when it was time to.

We decided to surprise my parents on Christmas Eve with the news. We went out and bought “You’re invited to a birthday party” invitations and all I wrote on the invitation was, “August 2010.”  I wanted to see who would be the first to figure it out.  My dad was the first, surprisingly.  He claims he had already written it on his calendar at work. He knew it would be August or September of 2010. I never knew he was psychic. My grandma and mom were so excited and probably were feeling a little bit of, “finally!!”  John and I have been married for 7 years and together for 12. Ever since we got married, my parents have been wanting grandchildren close to them.  I always said, “Who is going to take care of them when I’m bowling!?” Both of them assured me that they would help me continue to have the career that I want.

We told John’s parents during our visit for New Year’s. We gave them the same invitation- They weren’t getting it. Since my birthday is in August, they thought it was a birthday party for me.  They finally got it when I said.. It’s a birthday party– 9 months from now.

One of the first things we did was . . .

Buy pregnancy books! I was so excited to find out what my body would be going through, and how this process all worked. I didn’t buy any pregnancy books until after I knew I was pregnant. I didn’t want to jinx it!

One of the first changes I felt was . . .

The inability to sleep early on.  I think it was a combination of anxiety, since I hadn’t had an ultrasound to see that everything was going ok in there, and the fact that I was feeling more “bloated” than normal. It was a sort of “fullness” in my lower abdomen. I also had a weird metallic taste in my mouth the first month.

Favorite food during month 1 was . . .

Onions! I wanted onions in everything for some reason.

During my pregnancy, i’m really focused on . . .

Eating as healthy as I can. No caffeine, not a lot of sugar, less processed foods, more veggies and fruit.

I decided not to . . .

Exercise throughout the first trimester and even into the second. I started working out towards the end of my second trimester. I didn’t want to risk anything early on. And, I was SUPER tired the first trimester. All I wanted to do is nap!

I really didn’t believe I was pregnant until . . .

We heard the heartbeat for the first time on Feb. 9, 2010. This was an amazing doctor visit.  Although I was feeling a bit different, I really didn’t truly believe another being was inside me until I heard their heartbeat.  It made me feel so much better! My first question to my doctor was, “are you sure that’s not my heartbeat?”

During the second month . . .

I really didn’t want to eat anything. I lost weight during my first two doctor check ups. I couldn’t stand the smell of any food, and couldn’t stand the thought of meat. Which was weird because I loved ribs, steak, and chicken before I was pregnant. I heard that your appetite changes, but whoa! I felt bad when John came home to make something for dinner. I had to leave the room because of the smell. Nothing against his food, everything was just really strong to smell!

I was only nauseous for about 2 weeks over the New Year.  Unfortunately it was the time we went to visit John’s parents in New Jersey.  She cooks a lot, and I couldn’t be in the kitchen when she was even heating things up. All I wanted to do was nap– I felt bad that it came at the time we were visiting them.  I know they understood, however.

I craved queso dip the second month. From On the Border.

During the third and fourth month . . .

I could still fit into all my clothes. I barely looked pregnant and if you didn’t know, you wouldn’t know. I’ve noticed that my hair is growing super fast, as are my nails from my prenatal vitamin, Prenate DHA. I am not nauseous anymore and all I want to eat is Mac and Cheese ! I get occasional headaches and get up a LOT more than I would normally get up to go to the bathroom at night. Still haven’t gained any weight. I am trying to eat but have no appetite! I did get a prenatal massage this month to ease my headaches.  It was during this month, that I won my second professional title.  You couldn’t tell on TV, but I was already 4 months pregnant with Baby Asbaty.  I like to say that he won his first title in the womb. He’s my new lucky charm I like hearing the heartbeat through the dopplar, and I also like to record it on my iphone so I can listen to it whenever I want.

It was during this month that we got to see our baby for the first time. We got a very extensive ultrasound because we were hopeful that it would be the only one we would have to get. We went to the suburbs to visit Dr. Birnholtz.  The first time I saw him on the screen was really emotional. It was the very first time I would ever see my baby.  And, it was very apparent right away that it was a boy. It was just good to know what it was so I didn’t have to wonder EVERY SINGLE DAY. I don’t know how people wait 9 months to find out! I wanted to know for sure.. I’m a planner! Everything looked perfectly healthy from his heart, to his brain, and his body structure.  When the doctor was checking out his brain I asked, “does he look smart?” When I came home, I wrote my son a letter about all the emotions I felt that day when I saw him for the first time. We got some great shots of him giving us the thumbs up, as if to say, “don’t worry about me in here, it’s alll good!”

Right after our doctors appointment we called our families to tell them the good news. I don’t think anyone was happier than my dad, who has been waiting for his boy since I was the disappointment 30 years ago.  Then my sister had two girls… I feel like the least I could do is give him this boy

Then, John and I wanted to buy him his first gift. We went to William Sonoma and bought him the cutest, smallest, pepper grinder. John wanted to get him something that he would be able to use with him in the kitchen. This is the first gift that his dad picked out for him. We plan on getting it engraved with his name and birthdate on it.  I then went to Baby Gap to buy him his very first jean jacket and pair of chuck taylors! It was really fun shopping for the baby that we finally found out was our BOY!

During the 5th month . . .

I felt him move for the very first time! I was on my way home from a charity event that I did with Bo Burton in Connecticut! It felt like a little love tap. Not a really hard kick. It definitely felt different so I know it was him.  John is sooo excited every time I tell him I can feel our baby. He couldn’t wait to feel for himself.

My 7 year old niece, Blaize decided she knows what we should name our baby. Out of the blue one day, she told Kassy, “Aunt Dee should name her baby Gary.” Gary!? Gary!? — not a name that you would think that a 7 year old would come up with.  Turns out that “Gary” was spotted by Blaize at the bowling center earlier that week. He bowled 300.  Apparently she wants us to name our baby after him. Very cute story. When I was bowling the PBA stops on Long Island and in Baltimore, all of my friends had fun referring to him as Gary. “How’s Gary feeling? What does Gary want to eat today? Better buckle Gary up in the car!” It was a cute story that gave him an immediate nickname.

We don’t have a name yet and when we do, we will keep that as the one secret that everyone has to wait until his birthday to find out! Turns out Blaize thought of another name for “Gary.”  She said to Kassy not too long ago, “Buzz Lightyear was the first man to walk on the moon.  Aunt dee dee should name her baby Buzz Asbaty.” So, apparently now it’s Gary Buzz Asbaty. Very cute!!

This month I signed up for our birthing classes starting in June.  The Bradley Method focusing on going the natural route.. at least as long as you can. We will have a doula with us, who will help us deliver him at the hospital.  One of my best friends, Nikki, her mom is a doula and is excited to help us out!

John continues to play guitar for our little guy and sings him songs nightly.  He always talks to him.  My only craving this month was Mac and Cheese still. At least I’m getting my appetite back!

Decided that I wouldn’t be able to travel to Japan at the end of May, per my doctor’s instructions. She was most nervous about me going into labor over the ocean without the ability to stop for help.  Understandable.  Disappointing, but understandable. Fortunately, Koji from Japan has also invited me for next year’s tournament. I love Tokyo!

I didn’t really start showing showing until week 20. It was that week I looked down and though, Oh.. there he is! I had to buy maternity pants finally. They are comfortable and waaay cooler than John or I thought they would be!

Got a very special gift from John’s coworker, Danielle. She handmade onesies (dyed them and all!) and put designs on the front of them.  My favorites are: “My mom can outbowl your mom.” And, the other one has a patch of the outline of Sicily and it says, “Made in Sicily.” So cute and made me teary eyed when I opened them!

During Month 6 . . . .

I can’t believe it’s going so fast! I got his closet done in his room.. we probably won’t work on his room until into July. His closet looks so cute with all the gifts he has already received! When I look in the closet it all feels more real.  I decided to begin my workouts up again with my trainer, Linda. I feel strong enough to, and am not sleepy all the time like I was. She is kicking my butt and definitely not treating me like I’m pregnant!

I had some pain in my lower pelvis area from all my muscles and ligaments stretching out. Although I hoped to bowl the Queens and US Open, I was barely able to get through the national tournament in El Paso. It’s my son telling me “Mom, please slow down now.” So, I will listen to him. It’s time for a little bit of a break.. from competing at least. I will ease into practicing when my muscles are feeling better. I will be ready to come back as soon as I can!

I tried getting acupuncture to ease the pain, but it didn’t help. I just need to rest it and take care of my little boy now. He’s the most important thing! Definitely not sleeping too great these days. I’m not used to getting up so often to go to the bathroom!

As I write this, I am officially 27 weeks! I can’t believe I only have 13 more weeks to go before I can meet my little guy. So excited! I am approaching my third trimester which I hear bring fatigue back. I hope to keep my energy. I’ve been staying active, by working out 3-4 times a week, doing prenatal yoga and I even did a charity walk this weekend! I won’t stop moving because I want to be in good shape for my little guy!

Everything is happening so fast! Tomorrow I will have my last blood test.. and it’s the biggest one. The glucose test. I have to fast for 12 hours (eck) After the blood test we will begin our registry at Babies R Us. Excited to see what I need for this little person. We will also register at this very cool baby story in Chicago called Giggle. www.giggle.com

Thanks for following my pregnancy progress! I can tell you something- I really love being pregnant and seeing my body change every day. Also one thing I’ve noticed– People are WAY nicer to pregnant women.

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I took a trip out to Dyer, IN to visit my mom and grandma this Mother’s Day. I took them to lunch and came back to my mom’s house to spend a little more time with them. Of course they had gifts for me, even though I’m not an official mom.  But most of them were for Baby Asbaty.  Always so generous! One of my favorite gifts of the day were lullaby CD that my mom gave me. They are Michael Jackson, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Queen lullabies.  No singing, all music.  Very soothing! Check them out at http://www.rockabyebabymusic.com

My gift for my mom was symbolic.  I decided to give her a tree to be planted in her backyard that would symbolize the life of my son.  When my sister and I were born, my parents planted tress that represented us.  Now it was time to plant another tree, to represent this great new beginning.  She loved the idea of planting this tree for Baby Asbaty!

When I got home, I received the prettiest wild flowers from John.  Sunflowers, mixed with other colorful flowers was such a sweet gesture.  When he gave them to me he said, “Thanks for carrying our baby.” Aww.

That night we went to see an incredible movie called “Babies.”  If you haven’t seen it yet, I highly recommend it! It’s about four babies that grow up in four completely different ends of the world.  No dialogue. No narration.  All just the babies.  The four locations of the babies documented from birth to one year, is Mongolia, Africa, Tokyo, and San Francisco. The most amazing part of the movie is when you realize that the baby from the middle of Africa, who has no toys, no clothes, and runs around on rocks and dirt- is just as happy as the baby from San Francisco, who has it all.  We are so protective of our babies and this movie makes you realize that they are tough, and will be ok.  The family from Africa taught me that.  Go see this movie!

http://www.filminfocus.com/focusfeatures/film/babies/

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I explained, “If you don’t want to do the story on me because I’m pregnant, I totally understand. I know there are a lot of bowlers out there that lead exciting lives and may be more compelling than the life that I’m living right now.” She insisted that we still do the story on me. She said it would be a good demonstration of how I am balancing this very important time in my life.

Lydia, and her photographer, Sheila, knocked on my door at 8:30am on May 19th. They were in for a long day! And, so was I!

After taking shots of me working on my computer like I do most mornings, she got a few shots of John and I eating breakfast. At 9:20am, we were off to Phenomenal Fitness where I train with my trainer, Linda Gisburne. (http://phenomenalfitness.com) Sheila got a bunch of shots of me boxing, and lifting weights… and after an hour we were off to my place so that I could quickly shower, and head off to my next destination: Hines Veterans Hospital.

I have never been to a Veterans Hospital and what I found there was inspiring. They had two lanes in the hospital that were open to all the patients there. I put on two clinics for them. All were excited to learn more about bowling. Many of them bowl in the Golden Age Games to earn medals. A few veterans that REALLY inspired me were blind. They had bowled before they were blind, so they understood where the ball return was. They found the ball return, stood right next to it, and took one giant step left. (if they were on the left lane) Very impressive that they had such great instincts. Their balls more often than not stayed on the lanes, and they were determined to pick up the pins that were left standing. Their friends were nice enough to tell them which pins were standing.

I left the hospital feeling very inspired. People that have done so much for our country, who have such challenges to overcome, still maintain a healthy, positive attitude. I hope to visit them again one day.

After Hines VA Hospital, we made a stop at the embroiderer who does all my custom embroidery for Kaizen by diandra and the last stop of the day was to my Prenatal Yoga Class with one of my childhood friends, Allison. I have known Allison since we were 12 years old, and despite the fact we only went to school together for two years, we maintained a very strong friendship. Through high school, college, and after college when she lived in California. I feel lucky to have such a close friend who is sharing the same pregnancy moments with me. Although, hers are probably more intense, as she is having twins in July!

Prenatal yoga is a great way for me to relax, and focus on my breathing. I have such busy days, that I think a lot of times I forget to stop and breathe. Prenatal Yoga at Bend Yoga and Movement Studio. (http://bendyogachicago.com)

So that’s just a peek into the day in the life of diandra! Be sure to check out the magazine, Bowling Industry to get a very in depth look at what goes on in the day of diandra.

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My good friend from high school, Tom Hadt, has a brain tumor.  As hard as that was to hear, I’m relieved that his attitude and humor has not changed.  I saw him at our 10 year reunion a few years ago, and then at another benefit.  When I saw him, he told me he’d love it if I would be willing to walk with him in the American Brain Tumor Association Path To Progress Walk being held at Solider Field on May 22, 2010.  This is something I looked forward to for a long time.  I love the chance to contribute to a gret cause.  So, on May 22, 2010 I woke up excited to see Tom, and other high school friends I have not seen in a long time.  The kickoff started at 8:30am.  It was surprising that I was able to find some of my high school friends throughout the 5,000 walkers/runners at this event.  It helped that we all had on bright yellow “Tommy’s Tumor” shirts.

The walk was great despite the gloomy day.  It was a nice opportunity to catch up with old friends while supporting my friend Tom.  I was proud to find out that our group was the biggest team at the event! Tommy’s Tumor raised over $18,000! I had a personal page set up through the ABTA website to raise funds for Tommy’s Tumor.  My goal was to raise at least $100.  I want to send out a special thanks to Guy Pryor who made a small donation and thanks especially to James Strauss who contributed $100 to my page. This means a lot to me because they took it upon themselves to donate to this great cause through my shout out on my facebook page. Very generous of them!

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I’ve decided to start with the most recent news and continue posting in a backwards fashion. I’m not sure if this makes sense, but that’s what I’ve decided to do. I’m sure you won’t mind.

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Don and Paula Carter Mixed Doubles

As I prepared myself for the very last Women’s Series event this year, as always, I was feeling hopeful.  The Don and Paula Carter Mixed Doubles would be my last shot at a title this year.  Who knows when I would get this opportunity again.  Sad because it was all over, I was excited to travel to Denver, CO for a few reasons. 1. My sister and her family live not too far away in Colorado Springs, CO.  2. One of my best friends from high school, Nikki, lives in Denver. 3. It’s a mixed doubles tournament and I love any team tournaments.

Little did I know the week would end with a bright new memory that would be engraved in my mind forever.  Qualifying was 14 games.  After the first day of qualifying, I was in the hunt to make the top 16 cut.  After the final 7 games, I found myself in 12th place.  During the very last game of qualifying I looked up at the leader board.  I was in 16th place- I needed a good game to secure my position in the cut.  I shot 256 to secure that position, and push me up to 12th.

My sister, Kassy, and two nieces, Blaize and newborn Khyler were there all day to root me on.  As was my husband, John, and one of my best friends from high school, Nikki.  With all the support behind me, it was hard not to rise to my best. During the last game, my niece Blaize, gave me something she made for me.  It was a check for $1 billion if i shot a 300 game.  It was priceless, and something I will cherish forever.  As I sat in the bowlers area, I saw her drawing on the standing sheets.  I walked over to her to see what she was writing.  She would circle my name on all the standing sheets and put a star next to my name.  So sweet.

I was excited to make the cut in 12th and even more excited to see who I would be paired up with for the rest of the tournament.  The guys bowled at night and had 7 more games to determine their placing. I went back to the bowling center to watch the guys finish and going into the last game, there were multiple great bowlers that I could have been paired up with.  The last game I decided to stand right in front of Brian Voss’s pair.  I noticed he finished with 279 and couldn’t help but think hmmm, he wasn’t in the cut- and will be now.  I wonder if he just shot 279 to bowl with me.

Turns out he did. They made the announcement of the pairing and I was so excited to hear I would be bowling with a Hall of Famer. I knew I would be comfortable as Brian and I had worked together during clinics in the past. He found me right away, and gave me a hug.  He introduced me to his family who was there to watch.  They don’t come to his tournaments often, but when they do, he says, he always bowls well.  And every single tournament his one sister has come to, he has made the TV finals.  I knew that was a long way away, but it was a nice thought at the time.

After a good sleep, I was ready to go.  One of the first things Brian told me before we started bowling was, “I will try every single shot. I will never give up and I will leave everything on the lanes.” He also mentioned that he doesn’t talk too much when he bowls.  I responded with, “if you don’t want to talk to me for 4 hours while we bowl, I’m totally fine with that.  If you don’t want to slap fives, we don’t have to.”  My main concern was that we were comfortable and were best able to do our job.

We did talk throughout the morning. Some of it was small talk- he talked about his big family, and how his mother (who was there) has 12 grandchildren.  Whenever I felt confused whether I should move, or change balls I would run it by him and he would give me short, simple answers.  I took all his advice to heart, and made moves accordingly.

The morning block brought many, many, many strikes and many, many, many wins.  We only lost 2 games out of 8 which gave us a lot of extra bonus pins.  We moved from 12th the first game, to 14th after the first game together, and then shot right up the standings.  By the lunch break the leader board had us in 3rd.  The top 5 teams make the show.  Still a lot of work to do, a lot of pins to knock down, and a lot of bonus pins that could change everything.  I did know one thing for sure, if we bowled like we did in the morning- we would for sure be in the top 5.

After lunch with Mike Fagan, Jason Belmonte, Nikki, Emily Maier, and John, we headed back to what would be the most important block of the tournament.  The lanes were a bit different, and we found ourselves struggling to get the reaction we had earlier in the day.  The balls I used throughout the tournament so far were The C. System 3.5, and the Wild Card when the lanes were starting to get drier. The pins weren’t falling as easily the second block for us, or for anyone.  (luckily)

So there we sat.. going into the position round.. in 6th place, a few pins out of the show.  It was the first time we had dropped lower than 5th since the beginning of the day.  We knew if we won the match against Tom Smallwood and Jodi Woessner, we would have a good chance at making the show.  Turns out that we could have even gotten to 2nd place- as the scores were super close.

The last game was covered on Xtra Frame and I suggest that if you don’t already have a subscription, you should get one right now.  Check out our final game to make the show. Most importantly, check out the 8th frame!

As I sat throughout the match making sure my heart rate stayed steady and focused on making good shots, I realized that this game could go any direction.  We took an early lead, but the team of Smallwood/Woessner caught us in the middle.  It was neck and neck.  Meanwhile, Wendy and Mika were bowling to our right and shooting a really big game.  They potentially could have gone around us, but to the left of us, Kelly and Eugune were struggling. Could we pass them even if we didn’t win this game and get the extra 30pins?

Then.. it happened… in the 8th frame of a very tight match- Brian went up to throw a shot.  It looked great off his hand but what he left standing was anything but great.  I had just watched Kelly Kulick leave back to back 7-10s on the right lane, next door to us.  Then, Brian goes up and throws a great shot only to leave the 7-10.

I sat right behind him while he shot it.  I watched the entire frame.  As he released the ball hard and straight at the 10 pin, his body language showed he thought he had a chance at bouncing it.  Then, in slow motion- it bounced, and rolled the pins all the way across the deck to hit the 7 pin.  The crowds roar is not able to be described into words.  Everyone in the entire bowling center seemed to see this pickup.  Not often do you watch someone throw at the 7-10, because really, how often is it made?  I’m telling you- every single person in the place saw him make this 7-10.  And, it gave me goosebumps.

Still in the game, we finished out the last game clean but it wasn’t enough to take 30 pins from Smallwood and Woessner.  But it was, however, enough to go around Kelly and Eugene and to hold off Mika and Wendy who trailed right behind us.  We made the show!

I seriously could not have been more excited. Between the fact that I get to bowl for a title with Brian Voss, Hall of Famer, to the fact that my sister, and nieces were going to be able to be there, and that I would be going for my 2nd title ever… I was so elated.  No matter what happened on the show, I was truly just happy to be on it.

The next day, Brian and I went to the bowling center to sign autographs, and conduct our TV interviews.  One thing that caught my attention is when Randy asked Brian if he was trying to go for that 7-10 split. His response will be with me forever.  He said, “Every single time I leave a split I think I’m going to make it.” (I then began to think that was the reason maybe I have never picked up the 7-10)

Show day: When I arrived at the bowling center, I went right to the pro shop where I worked out the two balls that my Brunswick ball rep, Chuck Gardner drilled up for me.  He drilled up two more C. System 3.5′s.  One pin down, and one pin up- both with holes. In case the tv pair was tighter, he wanted to make sure that I had something to pick up early and roll.

After practicing on the pair to the side of the show pair, we were ready to head to the TV pair to practice.  I couldn’t be more excited to see my sister, Kassy, brother in law, Scott, and two little nieces, Blaize and Khyler there to cheer me on.  Blaize made me the cutest sign, too.  I was so excited to be able to bowl on live TV while they watched– especially Blaize, since we have watched the bowling shows live at her house.

The only way I can describe what happened that February day is by saying this:  You know those days where everything just feels right?  Everything fits together? That’s what it was like.  Mentally I felt clear headed.  Physically, I felt ready.  I knew what I needed to do, and I had the tools to do it.  During the warm up on the TV pair, I had an immediate good look hitting around 14 at the arrows with the new C System 3.5 pin down with hole that Chuck had drilled for me the night earlier. I had that look on both lanes but was aware that the right lane seemed a few boards tighter.

Everything on live TV flies by.  Unless you slow it down.  I made conscious effort to make sure that I didn’t rush.  I made sure to go only when I was ready.  I was determined to be me.  It was the best TV advice I have ever received– from Rick Benoit in 2007.  Before I won my very first PBA title, he said to me- “When you get out there, everything goes really quickly and it’s truly a crap shoot. You do have control over one major thing, though.  You can control who you are.  How do you want people to see you?”  I made up my mind that day, that every time I was on TV, I would be sure to make sure people saw me and thought one main thing: that I love what I do. Win or lose, that’s always my goal on TV.  I want people to see me for me- and it’s not always that easy on live TV.

After the first game, and shooting 278 together- I felt very comfortable with both our looks.  I didn’t miss on the left lane which made sense that when Rhino and Shannon came in to bowl us, that they chose to move us around.  The lane choice was always that of the higher seed, so we never had to worry about making that decision.  I like that- the less I have to think about, the better.

Brian asked me before the second match, which lane I want to bowl on.  I told him I am comfortable on both, but if I had a choice, I’d stay on the left since I was 5/5 on that lane.  He explained that I would have to finish then, and get the 10th frame.  I’m fine with that, but we hadn’t changed our lineup the entire time we bowled. I felt comfortable leading off, and I felt comfortable with him finishing.  I didn’t want to change the dynamic of that. So, we didn’t.  I decided to start on the right lane, and had just as good of a look.. shooting back to back 270 games.

Wes and Shannon O Keefe had a hard time lining up- and all of a sudden Brian and I found ourselves in the title match against Jason Belmonte and Michelle Feldman, who had dominated the entire tournament (by a lot!)

What an interesting last match.  It’s always hard to come in from the first position and immediately get it together. I’ve been there- I know.  It’s also hard to climb the ladder from the 5th position.  Both of us were in tough positions. Brian and I got off to a good start, whereas Jason and Michelle got off to a little less of one.  Towards the middle of the game, we were up by 30, with still a lot of game left to bowl. It was hard not to breathe easier when I looked behind my chair and saw my niece, Blaize holding that sign that said, “Get a strike, Aunt Dee.”  I even felt my eyes well up a few times coming back from a shot to see her, and my sister- who was always my role model growing up cheering me on.  Brian and I were so fortunate to have our family there behind us the entire way.

It was at that point that I was able to repay Brian the favor he gave me the night earlier. In the 7th frame, I left the 4-7/10. I never doubted I would get it. The first thought in my head after I saw I left it was, “i’m going to pick it up.”  Thanks to Brian’s lesson in split making during the interview the night before.. I never had a doubt in my mind. People asked if I was trying to get two, or actually trying to make it.  I was most definitely trying to make it.  And, I’m so glad I was able to repay Brian that favor.

After I picked up that split, Brian unfortunately missed a 10 pin in the 8th.  Taking my approach for the 9th shot in the final match, I knew I needed to make a good shot to set Brian up.  It might have been the best shot I threw the entire day- Brian needed the first one in the tenth and 7 pins to win his 25th title, and for me to win my 2nd.  He struck out- and we beat the odds. Coming from 5th place through such a great field of bowlers- to beat the two bowlers who were dominate the entire tournament was truly amazing.

A part of me did feel bad for Michelle and Jason, I am not unaware of their fantastic bowling all week.  No one was. Everyone knew how great they bowled together.  It’s the blessing and the curse of live TV.  Everyone who has ever bowled for a title has probably felt both situations.

What an incredible day.  The outpouring of messages, (72 texts when I got to my phone after the show, and 15 calls) and the incredibly nice notes that were sent from people I didn’t even know… was so touching.  Some said that it was the best show they have seen in a very long time- maybe ever. That really affects me because I want more than anything to be able to display my talent so people want to watch, and to be able to inspire people along the way.

Don and Paula Carter Mixed Doubles

Thanks to all who sent messages, and for who watched our show.. Thanks for rooting us on!

The most inspiring message I received was from Don and Paula Carter.  That, was pretty freakin cool!

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I asked Kelly a few weeks earlier if I could take her to dinner to celebrate. (my way of making sure she didn’t make plans for that night!) She was excited I asked, and looked forward to our little dinner together.  The dinner was anything but little, she would soon find out.

As Stefanie, Clara, Kelly and I headed downtown Denver to a little place called Armida’s (who was famous for their Karoake) the rest of the bunch were already there, hanging banners, balloons, and making sure everyone had the t-shirts I made for them that celebrated Kelly.

The night could not have been any more perfect. Everyone had on their Kelly t-shirts, and yelled “Surprise” when we arrived.  Kelly was in shock.  She didn’t have a clue that everyone planned on getting together to celebrate her.

The night full of Mexican food, Margaritas (for some), and fun Karaoke will be in my memory forever.  I laughed so hard all night enjoying the company of all of my competitors.  Except that night they weren’t my competitors.  They were my friends.  I can’t thank everyone enough for making this party a success.

The night was for Kelly, and by the end of it all- she left with a feeling of sincerity- That although we all compete against one another, we couldn’t have been happier for her breaking the barriers she had broken.

My only regret is that we didn’t get together like that more often during the women’s series.  That’s one fun group of ladies!

Some of the fun can be seen here:

http://www.facebook.com/diandraasbaty?v=app_2392950137&ref=profile#!/video/video.php?v=695844789577

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Below are my personal reviews of the four latest Brunswick additions. I hope that these reviews inspire you to go out and get these balls, because I promise you- they are the best on the market. Brunswick’s R&D department (Billy Orlikowski, Aaron Koch, and Ray Edwards) have spent many hours researching and studying what Brunswick bowlers need.  Thanks for all the hard work R&D staff! Thanks for all the strikes.

+Wild Card

Facts:

-Cover: ConneXion

- RG diff: 0.045

-Out of the box: 2000 Siaair Micro Pad

-Core: Symmetrical Paragon

My opinion:

The Wild Card reminds me most of the old Strike Zone. (And i LOOVED that ball!) It’s medium aggressive, reads the midlane perfectly and is best used on medium -heavy oil where you want your ball to get through the heads clean, read the midlane which yields an increased back-end reaction.

+ Diamondback

Facts:

-Cover: Activator

- RG diff: 0.044

-Out of the box: 2000 Siaair Micro Pad

-Core: Symmetrical Rocket

My Opinion: I’ve always loved my Rattler so when Brunswick decided to come out with their version of a Solid Rattler: Diamondback, I was very excited. I decided to rough buff the balls I drilled and really love how they roll. I used the Diamondback when I was bowling in Vegas at the Team USA Trials. My two favorite drillings for the Diamondback are: Pin above my ring finger, no hole, and Pin above (a little higher) the ring finger with a hole on axis. This ball is smooth. The Diamondback because of it’s Rocket Core and original activator coverstock, makes a more aggressive move at the breakpoint but is still clean through the front. Good for medium to oily lanes.

+Evil Siege

Facts:

-Cover: Propel Pearl

- RG diff: 0.056

-Out of the box: 4,000 Micro Pad Finish

-Core: Asymetrical MACE

My opinion: I always use my Siege. Now I know what to go to when the Siege is hooking too much.  The Evil Siege is cleaner than the C.System 2.5 and is very strong.  It’s one of Brunswick’s cleanest balls with the most angle.  My favorite layout was my pin above my bridge, no hole and secondary pin 70 degrees.  I also drilled one that is stronger on the back, and a bit earlier: pin above my middle finger, secondary pin 45 degrees. Another layout I tried which doesn’t read early, but still hits like a truck is pin under bridge, secondary pin below thumb about 2″ down. The Evil Siege will be a great compliment to the regular Siege. I can’t wait to compete with it!

+C. System 3.5

Facts:

-Cover: CFT 3.5 Reactive

- RG diff: 0.050

-Out of the box: 4000 Micro Pad Finish

-Core: asymmetrical I-Block

My opinion: I have a new love and his name is C. System 3.5. Thanks goes out to the Brunwick R&D department and Carmen Salvino for developing this monster ball.  This is the ball that you will start with on heavy oil when you are looking for a quicker response. You start with this ball, and then you can move to the C. System 2.5 when the lanes start to break down.  This ball hooks and hits unlike any ball I have ever seen. Here are the drillings I chose: (well, Rick Benoit chose)

1. 1″ hole,45 degrees, pin above middle finger 5.5″, This ball gave me more length than the others.

2. no hole, pin above ring finger, 55mb: Rough Buffed

3. pin above ring finger 5″, 45 degree mb

4. I drilled one just like my favorite C. System 2.5 with pin above bridge and secondary pin under thumb

5. Pin in palm, Secondary pin kicked out right, no hole

Thanks, Brunswick!

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To see Blaize’s reaction on Christmas Day, go here: I’ll warn you now: It’s priceless!!

http://s853.photobucket.com/albums/ab95/Kolobolo/Christmas%202009/?action=view&current=20091225073606.flv

Check out http://ontheballbowling.com to learn more about this great company!

Note: Interested in having Sherif and I design a ball especially for you or someone you know? Email me at diandrabowling@aol.com to get more details!

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