Saturday, October 31, 2009

Tia's first unofficial Halloween

Saturday, October 31st, 2009 – Day 230

Today's Halloween and since I put on the Halloween Bus Party every year, Chris and I will be getting all dressed up and we'll be out and about for Halloween. Being 8 months pregnant, my costume is a plus size, but it fits! For those who don't know, I have had a Halloween Party for 10 years. I thought about not having it because I was pregnant, but being the 10th anniversary of the Halloween Bus Party and it falling on Halloween, I couldn't let my people down! I'm a bit worried to how it will go with my belly though. Will the music be too loud? Will I get hit in my belly from a stranger by accident? Will people be constantly tugging on my belly? Will Tia be annoyed? Will my feet make it all night? So many questions. But since I won't be drinking, I am confident I will be okay. Plus, Chris will be there to protect us. I'm excited - I think it will be fun.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Tia's Going to School

Friday, October 30, 2009 – Day 229

We went and looked at child care facilities. I've been doing some research and had narrowed it down to the the top few places that we wanted to look at. Chris and I took a half day and went and met with the places we had picked. We went to the Goddard School in Fenton and we loved what we saw and heard, but they did not have an opening until November of 2010. The Goddard school in Fenton is the perfect location because it is on my way to work on HWY 141 and it is within 5 minutes of Chris's work. Then we went and met with La Petite Academy just around the corner from Goddard in Fenton. It didn't have that wow affect we had with Goddard, but it definitely was under consideration because of the location and it was a bit cheaper than Goddard. There were a few negatives but nothing that was a deal breaker. Our last stop was the Goddard School in Arnold. It is 10 minutes from our house, BUT an hour from my work and it would be very difficult for me to get there before they closed every day IF Chris wasn't able to pick up our little girl. The plan has been for me to drop her off and Chris to pick her up every day. We walked into the Goddard in Arnold and were in love. It was awesome and they had an opening too. We could start at the Goddard in Arnold and then move to the one in Fenton in November. The other downfall to this is that we plan to move early next year and being stuck until November would not coincide with our plans for child care places in Arnold.

The Goddard School in Arnold just had everything we had hoped for and it really impressed both of us. I loved when we walked in, Chris mumbled so I could hear 'I already love this place better' and I had to agree. It was bigger, brighter and had a gorgeous layout both inside and outside than the Goddard in Fenton. Don't get me wrong, the Fenton location is great too - but it is an older building and not as much land to work with. The Goddard Schools are franchised and so under different managements you get different rules and stipulations. There were a couple things the Goddard School in Arnold had that were more in line with our goals than the one in Fenton. Just so many pluses for Arnold Goddard School that we were even joking that we may have to stay in Arnold for longer.

But with all things, sometimes things happen for a reason. The Director who was giving us the tour of the Goddard School in Arnold said 'we are opening one in Ballwin and I'll be going to be the Director of that one'. I immediately was overjoyed and excited, but apprehensive as I asked the questions 'does the Ballwin location open soon and do they have any openings'...and both answers were perfect. They were opening in January of 2010 and they had one opening. I looked at Chris and he already knew what I was thinking. Ballwin is the area we are hoping to move to and it would be the perfect location for day care, plus we have family and friends in that area that could always help out if we needed to pick-up/drop-off, etc.

What I love about the Goddard Schools is that infants don't share cribs. They only have 8 spots in the infant room and we can decorate our baby's crib with our own sheets, mobile, etc. Plus, it felt so safe and clean in the infant room. I had no doubt that our baby would get the safe care that she needed and at such an early age. What is also nice about the Ballwin opening is that it is going to be the exact same size and layout as the Arnold one. It will have the same rules and policies and amenities. It just sounded perfect. Since there are only 8 spots, I also know that not only will the last spot go quick, but once they are gone, it would be very difficult to get in there in the future.

Chris and went home and talked it over and the next morning, we drove up there with the contract and check and signed up our little girl. With this school, I have no worries about leaving her for the day to go to work when I'm back from maternity leave. Chris feels the same way. Woo Hoo, our little girl is going to school. The other thing I loved about Arnold is that every teacher had a degree and CE in education. This is not common with other child care places. Plus they are one of the only accredited schools and offer infant care to Kindergarten care. Since Ballwin will follow the same pattern as Arnold, we are confident they will be working on that same status.

I drove to work as if I would be dropping Tia off at the Goddard School in Ballwin, and it was perfect! I'm excited!

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Belly Itcher

Thursday, October 29, 2009 – Day 228

I know my belly is growing because I am constantly scratching my belly. It feels great when I itch all around my belly. Someone asked me if I use Cocoa Butter and I haven't. I thought about it once upon a time, but I guess I was waiting for stretch marks or some sure reason to do it. I guess I should definitelhy consider it because it is after the baby is born when I'll wish I had. But as she grows bigger these final weeks, I'll just consider myself to be a belly itcher, because right now, that is exactly what I am.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Yes, I'm Small for Being 8 Months Pregnant

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 – Day 227

I get the same exact reaction from all people who meet me for the first time. They all ask, 'when are you due' and then when I say '12-20'....they have a look of astonishment and say pretty much the same thing 'wow, you are so small' or 'you are tiny for being that far along' or 'you certainly don't look like you are due in December' or 'that's going to be one small baby'. Part of me takes it as a compliment since I haven't gained too much baby weight and then the other part of me wonders why I look so small. With about 7 weeks and a few days left until my due date, I always thought I'd be huge too. So I can't blame them, but what does it mean. I will have to ask my doctor what he thinks. I'm sure I'm normal and just wear the baby belly well since I'm tall and somewhat lean.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Chris is a Natural

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 – Day 226

Tonight we had dinner with some friends. One couple had a 7 month old baby boy with them and boy was he a cutie. It really heightens my baby mode when I am around other babies. Chris held this little boy for a while and it was just so sweet seeing Chris as such a natural with kids. I am so lucky to have someone who wants kids as much as I do and who is so natural around them. I can't wait to see him with Tia - but I already know he'll be a great daddy.

Monday, October 26, 2009

A Whole New World

Monday, October 26, 2009 – Day 225

Chris and I are figuring things out as best as we can. We are both extremely analytical and together, we can come up with the best solutions (most of the time). Trying to figure out how many car seats/pumpkin seats that we needed was actually quite fun. It was like a light bulb went off in both of our heads when we realized we only really need one pumpkin seat and two car bases. We pretty much did a high five in our own revelation. We've had many of these moments as we've gone along. So much fun discovering the steps of this journey together. I can't wait to watch us putting on diapers for the first time. Last time I changed a diaper was my little sisters and I think for Chris, it was his brothers. Let's see Sam is 17 and Brandon is 16 - that is a long time since we've changed a diaper. So this should be extra fun, lol

Sunday, October 25, 2009

We Have a Crib

Sunday, October 25, 2009 – Day 224

Written by Baby Daddy:

Thanks to everyone's gift cards and cash from the baby showers, Angie and I were able to purchase a crib this weekend. I never realized how expensive baby furniture is, but the set we purchased can grow with our baby girl. The crib is a 4 in 1 and actually converts from an infant's bed all the way to a teenager's bed. We both agree that the color is gorgeous. Anyway, we will start to move the baby's stuff in to the spare bedroom soon. Daddy just has some touch-ups to do.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Results from Diabetes Test

Saturday, October 24, 2009 – Day 223

I went to a doctor's appointment yesterday and my doctor wasn't there because he had a delivery to do at a different hospital. But I was able to see the nurse practitioner. I asked about my 3 hour Gestational Diabetes test results and she let me know that they came back okay. The first 3 blood tests were in the clear, although the last blood test was slightly elevated. There is nothing much I can do, although she said if I wanted to take some precautionary measures, I could watch my sugar and carb intake. I might try, but I love sugar and carbs a little too much. But I'll try ;) All else looked good. My weight and blood pressure came back great. I got to hear Tia's heartbeat and it is at 145. What was so cute, was that Tia had the hiccups. So we would hear the fast swoosh heartbeat and then a loud boom. At first, the practitioner thought it was her kicking, but when we heard a steady boom, she conferred that Tia did have the hiccups. It was so cute.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Plus Size Costumes

Friday, October 23, 2009 – Day 222

I went to the costume shop and decided I wanted to find Chris and I's costumes so I wouldn't have to scramble at the last minute. I looked at the Pregnant Nun costume, but could not fathom myself wearing that head piece all night. I originally wanted to be a disco ball, but logistically, it just wasn't going to be an easy task. I think the bun in the oven is a cute costume, but I sort of wanted to do something not maternity. I tried on a bunch of costumes and found one I sort of liked. I'm going to be a St. Pauley's girl. I had to get the Plus Size costume which is hysterical. I think I look like a house, but at least I look half way flattering. I got Chris the Laderhosen costume and it is perfect for him. I guess when you will be 8 months pregnant on Halloween, desperate times call for desperate measures.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

I'm Getting Excited - Baby Room

Thursday, October 22, 2009 – Day 221

Today, our roommate and cousin, Jeremy, closed on his new house. He moved most of this stuff out of our house today and I'm overjoyed. Don't get me wrong, he was an easy and great roommate, but now I can start getting the baby room ready. I have everything stacked up neatly in our office just waiting to be put into the baby room. I can't wait to hang up clothes, get the crib all ready and have everything perfect for when Tia arrives. Of course, we need to clean and possibly do a small bit of touch ups on the walls, but it is almost time! We aren't going to paint the walls because it is a neutral color right now that will be perfect. Tia's bedding and decor will be perfect to accent the room for her. Only a matter of days....yay!

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

The Tiredness is Starting to Kick in Again

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 – Day 220

Of course the first trimester, I was so tired all the time it was nuts. I've had a ton of energy this past trimester, but now that I'm fully into my 3rd trimester, the tiredness is setting in again. Luckily, it hasn't hit me during the day, but I have a feeling it is only a matter of time. It is more at night - I get home and I'm ready for bed earlier than 9:30 which has been my bedtime for the past few months. I am not looking forward to being tired at work, that is the worst. But I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Maybe it will skip me!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Inny or Outie

Tuesday, October 20, 2009 – Day 219

My inny belly button is becoming an outie. I always knew this would happen but it is really weird. I can't imagine what it will look like in the weeks to come. I was so afraid what my body changes would be during pregnancy. But not much has changed except my belly so I can't complain. I have gained 20 pounds so far.

Monday, October 19, 2009

My Dogs Are Barking

Monday, October 19, 2009 – Day 218

Okay, pregnancy has been pretty easy so far, with nothing to really complain about. But seriously, my dogs are barking! I'm talking about my feet hurting so bad. Even just standing barefoot in the kitchen - they hurt badly. My most comfortable shoes have become uncomfortable too. I know this is part of it but ugh! So I went out and got some new cushy shoes. They aren't pretty but they seem to be more comfortable thus far - guess we'll see. I've heard it gets worse too.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Daddy's Finally Starting to Move Around

Sunday, October 18, 2009 – Day 217

Written by Baby Daddy:

Well, a week and a half after surgery, I'm finally able to barely move my leg. Until now, I couldn't even get it to budge. I worked from home all last week and will be returning this week on crutches. I'm sort of worried that I will not be able to get comfortable at work sitting all day. Currently, I have to be on a couch or bed with my leg being completely supported or else it starts hurting. Since Angie will be taking me to and from work, I'll be stuck there all day if I find it too intolerable to sit in a chair. Hopefully I'll be able to walk on my own in a few weeks. I still need to take pain medication before I go to bed since I have a hard time sleeping now. I've never been one to lay on my back and not move at all throughout the night. The longer the recovery takes, the more fearful I become of returning to soccer. I just keep thinking that I never want to go through this again...it's so inconvenient! My soccer days may be numbered. :( Maybe I should un-retire from bowling.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Tia One Day


Saturday, October 17, 2009 – Day 216

A friend of mine sent this picture to me and Chris the other day - isn't she adorable. She said that her mannerisms and her personality reminded her of me and Chris in some ways. Plus she loves to bowl. Also, there were some features that reminded her of me and Chris too. We both thought it was super cute. The hair cracks me up, because my hair does look like that, although I straighten mine every day so it looks naturally straight. Although, my close friends all know my true hair!

Only 9 weeks to go everyone - can't wait to meet her!

Friday, October 16, 2009

Baby Clothes and More Baby Clothes

Friday, October 16, 2009 – Day 215

I think everyone knows I have amazing friends, but what I'm also lucky is to have many friends who have had little girls before me. I already received several bags of clothes from one of my friends a month or so ago, then earlier this week another girl friend gave me 2 bins and 4 bags of clothes...and she says she has 4 more bags to give me. Well, of course I'm super excited, so I got home and took them all out and categorized them by age group. Boy are there a ton of baby clothes. It is amazing! I seriously think baby Tia will be good on clothes until she is 4 years old. Of course, there will be certain clothes I see and want to buy and it is always fun getting clothes from friends - but Tia is going to be stylin with new and old clothes for sure. Baby clothes are so much fun.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Reserved for Expectant Mothers


Thursday, October 15, 2009 – Day 214

Since I've been pregnant, I see the signs that say 'Reserved for Expectant Mothers' and I ask myself - can I park there. But I never did because I was afraid people would see me and think I was not really pregnant. But I finally took advantage of my pregnancy status by parking in one of those front row spots. I was so excited! I'm in my last trimester in my 8th month - I think I deserve to park there. I'll definitely take advantage of this new privilage if it comes my way.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Gestational Diabetes Test - Take 2

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 – Day 213

I went in this morning for the 3 hour diabetes test. It was actually more like 4 hours. I got there at 7:00am and they made me drink some orange sugar water again. It isn't as bad as some people say, thankfully. I believe it is because I don't drink soda much and don't have a preference between brands. I think those who can tell the difference between coke and pepsi and other sodas were probably more sensitive to the taste. After the sugar water, they took my blood. Then after another hour, they took my blood for the 2nd time. Then another hour, they took my blood for the 3rd time and finally after another hour, they took my blood for the 4th and last time. Most people know that I hate giving blood. I actually did a great job of avoiding giving blood until I was about 22. I know, I know. The doctors I'd pick would tell me to go give blood and I wouldn't go and just change doctors. That is how much I hated giving blood. But one doctor knew my trick and brought in the nurse to take blood during my first appt. I stuck with that doctor for a long time. But since then, I've had to give blood probably 10 or so times. But today, I gave more blood than I've ever done and it really didn't bother me. I think because of the motivation behind giving blood - all for my baby!

I pray I don't have diabetes, but I guess we'll see when the results come back.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Unveiling my Belly Finally


Tuesday, October 13, 2009 – Day 212

I really thought when I got pregnant, I'd be taking pictures of my bell every week. But I have not done that probably because I really didn't have much of a belly to work with. Now, you can see my belly unveiled. It is 'cute' and many people are still saying they can't believe I'm due in December. I still am amazed I only have a little over 9 weeks to go. But I'm really excited that the days are numbered.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Baby Showers Rock!


Monday, October 12, 2009 – Day 211

Yesterday was my second baby shower and let's just say that my little girl made out like a bandit! I just love all of the girlie stuff and all of the pinks and browns. So many cute things and a lot of stuff we need. It makes me just so eager to get her baby room started. For those who don't know yet, her name is going to be Tia. Some of my girlfriends got some embroidered items with her name - too cute! Everyone was saying how she is going to be the best dressed baby and my friends and family are definitely making sure of it - lots of wonderful clothes. For the girls who put it together, they did a fantastic job - I have awesome friends (and family).

Another highlight of today was getting to meet my Great Nephew. My sister Nan, her daughter Tori and Tori's new baby boy Seth were in attendance. Seth will be four months soon and he was a cutie to hold and get to know. There were two other babies there today too. Oh soo cute! I am definitely in baby mode, that's for sure.

Chris was super excited to see all of the gifts and baby things - it made him even more excited to welcome little Tia to the world. He keeps saying 'I can't wait' and it always makes me smile!

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Helpless Daddy

Sunday, October 11, 2009 – Day 210

Written by Baby Daddy:

Surgery is out of the way now and let me tell you, it was not a fun experience....well at least the recovery. The surgery itself went very well. They made me feel very comfortable and I didn't feel a thing (not even the shot I had to get in my groin). The recovery part definitely sucks. The shot wore off a day later and that's when the discomfort set in. I can't really do anything and it hurts to move my leg even the slightest bit. I look like a big goof when I'm trying to carry anything from one room to the next. I have stuff wrapped around my neck, carrying other things in my mouth, and have a shopping bag with strings to carry lunch from the kitchen to the living room. It's harder than I thought getting around on crutches. Lucky for me, I have an awesome wife that is taking care of me. I feel so bad having Angie do all these things for me while pregnant. She has been taking excellent care of me and keeping her beautiful smile the entire time.
Another downside to the surgery is the uncomfortable factor. I have a hard time sleeping at night because I cannot move and have to keep my leg propped up. I never seem to get a good nights sleep. I didn't want to mention this, but I know Angie would have posted this if I didn't. I also have to wear these white (extremely tight) stockings on both legs. They're supposed to keep my blood from clotting. Angie says I look like a stripper with them on.....haha.
One final note that was frustrating. I had my first physical therapy appointment on Friday. My mother picks me up and takes me there, but they are closed. I call them and they said that they did not have me down for my first visit until Monday. One of the most important things that needed to be done on my first visit was to get my bandages changed. I guess I'll just have to wait until tomorrow. I called a different rehab place that same day and cancelled all my other appointments. I was so mad.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Gestational Diabetes Test for the 2nd Time

Saturday, October 10, 2009 – Day 209

I got the results of my gestational diabetes test and I had an elevated result, which basically means I failed it. So I have to go next week and take the 3 hour long test. It does not sound fun...basically having my blood taken every hour and having to drink that sugar water again. They said that 140 and less is normal and my test result was 155. So we'll see this next time around. I pray I don't have diabetes...but I guess I'll take the punches if/when they come.

Friday, October 9, 2009

30 Week Doc Appt

Friday, October 9, 2009 – Day 208

My doctor's appointment went well today. Everything is on course and looking good. Her heartbeat was between 140 and 150. My weight gain is at 20 pounds since I got pregnant, but he says that's right where he wants me to be. Blood pressure was good and everything else was good. So all is well and on course. I go back in two weeks and then every week from there on out. It's like a countdown! Only 10 more weeks.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Ouch - Che-Wa-Wa

Thursday, October 8, 2009 – Day 207

I've had leg cramps, but I think I got the mother of all leg cramps the other night. I woke up in tears of pain. I could not get it to go away. I used some friends advice, but nothing seemed to work. It was horrible. Luckily Chris was not home - he was down at his dad's house for the night. In the morning when I got out of bed, I couldn't even walk on my leg. And then, for the next few days, my leg was very hard and stiff. Ouch! I guess it is all part of it.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

House on the Market - On Hold

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 – Day 206

After a discussion the other night about what we want to do with putting the house on the market, we concluded that we are going to wait a bit longer. With the baby within a few months away and Chris with a torn ACL (surgury tomorrow), we've decided we want to take the pressure off and focus on our health the next few months and enjoy being a family when she arrives. Of course, we are excited to move...but we don't want to add any stress the next couple months that isn't necessary. Honestly, I'm so much in baby mode that it doesn't bother me at all to endure the long drive to work. (1) because I go on maternity leave mid-December and I won't have to drive an hour to and from work for 3 months. (2) We are so comfortable in our house and it would be a bit chaotic trying to focus on baby while trying to move, get settled, etc. and (3) right now my main focus is baby!

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

I Love Baby Showers

Tuesday, October 6, 2009 – Day 205

The first baby shower took place this past weekend for some of my family on both sides. Boy do I love getting the cute gifts, clothes, essentials...it makes me that much more excited to get a baby room set up. We got a ton of great gifts and I could tell that Chris was super excited too. It is crazy how much baby stuff there are out there, but I guess when you have babies these days, it's essential. Only a few more weeks until we can start working on her baby room. It is so exciting!

Monday, October 5, 2009

The Tired Factor is Setting in Again

Monday, October 5, 2009 – Day 204

Third trimester is now here and the tired factor has already started to set in. I am finding that my energy is not as full throttle as the past couple months and I have to go to bed at a decent time in order to withstand a full day of work, etc. The other thing is eating. When I first became pregnant, I had to make sure I ate every few hours or else I'd get a nauseous feeling. Well, that is starting to creep back too. I find myself really hungry between breakfast, lunch and dinner. So I've been stocking up on the snacks. But all of this is worth it and I hope she's getting the nutrition she deserves!

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Brrrrrr.....It's Sure Cold Inside

Sunday, October 4, 2009 – Day 203

I completely understand that pregnant women get a little bit warmer than usual, but just recently, Angie has been freezing me out of the house. Last week, the temperature was in the low 60's and she had the A/C running. Better yet, just the other night, the A/C was on but not running so when the outside temp got down to 48 with the inside of the house at 66, the heat never kicked on. It didn't really matter because she was still hot! Isn't it usually the man's job to keep his significant other warm? When I woke up, I was asking her to hold me to keep me warm. I sure felt helpless. On the flipside, I guess our heating bill will be pretty cheap this winter.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Designated Driver

Saturday, October 3, 2009 – Day 202

If there is one thing my friends can definitely benefit from while I'm pregnant - it is me being the Designated driver. Today we are going to the Cardinal's game and I'm picking up 4 girls on my way. I'm excited to get out and about with the girls to the game!

Friday, October 2, 2009

Happy Hour

Friday, October 2, 2009 – Day 201

Well, although I'm pregnant, I attended a Happy Hour tonight for work. It is always interesting to be around others who are drinking and normally I'd have one or two. But I didn't mind, but I tend to focus on the food. I had some bavarian pretzels with cheese sauce - boy were they good. All I can say is that it is a cheaper when you are pregnant and I still get home very early :)

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Gestational Diabetes/Glucose Screen Done

Thursday, October 1, 2009 – Day 200

Today, I got my screen done and it wasn't as bad as I've heard. I had to drink down an orange sugar drink, but to me it tasted just like orange soda. Perhaps, because I don't drink much soda, I'm not that picky on tastes. I know many people who can tell the difference between coke and pepsi, but I've never cared enough to try to compare. So I bet that is why the orange soda didn't both me much. I did have to wait an hour until I was able to give blood, but it went by fast. I hate giving blood, but I do have to admit that it wasn't bad. A tiny little prick and done. I pray the results come back okay and I don't test positive for anything to be alarmed about.