Sunday, November 1st, 2009 – Day 231
Written by Baby Daddy:
There's so much going on right now, it's almost hard to decide what to do next. Angie and I have been taking one step at a time which definitely helps. The Halloween Bus Party was a great success and is now behind us. I'm in the middle of some training at work which will be finished this week. We have almost all of our furniture for the baby room now. Once I finish the touch-ups, we'll be able to move all of the baby's stuff in. We have a new TV coming in since our old roomie owned the previous entertainment center. We just finished up picking out a daycare for our little girl. I'm finally starting to move around on my own a little better, although full recovery is going to take a while. It's really nice having everything come together.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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 :)
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.
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.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Corduroy Pants are In
Wednesday, September 30, 2009 – Day 199
For me, corduroy pants are the in thing now because I found some from Kohl's that are maternity pants with the stretchy belly band and they rock. I bought a khaki and light brown color and went back tonight and got black and dark brown. I just love them! I can't tell you the last time I bought corduroy pants, but it has been a very long time. Now that my belly has emerged, I am just digging all of the maternity pants and tops that I have. Comfort is key!
For me, corduroy pants are the in thing now because I found some from Kohl's that are maternity pants with the stretchy belly band and they rock. I bought a khaki and light brown color and went back tonight and got black and dark brown. I just love them! I can't tell you the last time I bought corduroy pants, but it has been a very long time. Now that my belly has emerged, I am just digging all of the maternity pants and tops that I have. Comfort is key!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Spicy Foods are the Best
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 – Day 198
Most of you all know that I love spicey food! I love hot salsa, hot sauce, hot wings, etc. Bring it all on. I had a couple friends tell me that they had an aversion to spicey foods when they were pregnant. I was a bit worried in the beginning, but I've had no aversions to any types of foods including spicey food! Mmmm A friend of mine makes awesome salsa and tonight, she gave me two huge containers of it and let me know that they were a bit spicier than her last batch. I was super excited! Another time I eat spicey food is Mexican. For instance, tonight I had a craving for chilli cheese burrritoes from Taco Bell. Of course, each one is fully dipped in 3 to 4 packets of fire sauce. Boy are they good. So, I'm pleased that baby loves spicey foods too.
Another friend did give me a tip, however. She was telling to watch it during breast feeding because it will affect the baby then. Good to know!
Most of you all know that I love spicey food! I love hot salsa, hot sauce, hot wings, etc. Bring it all on. I had a couple friends tell me that they had an aversion to spicey foods when they were pregnant. I was a bit worried in the beginning, but I've had no aversions to any types of foods including spicey food! Mmmm A friend of mine makes awesome salsa and tonight, she gave me two huge containers of it and let me know that they were a bit spicier than her last batch. I was super excited! Another time I eat spicey food is Mexican. For instance, tonight I had a craving for chilli cheese burrritoes from Taco Bell. Of course, each one is fully dipped in 3 to 4 packets of fire sauce. Boy are they good. So, I'm pleased that baby loves spicey foods too.
Another friend did give me a tip, however. She was telling to watch it during breast feeding because it will affect the baby then. Good to know!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Lots of Hiccups
Monday, September 28, 2009 – Day 197
I love my little baby, but this girl gets hiccups at least 4 or 5 times a day. At first, I thought it was the cutest thing. However, there are times, I admit, that I'm thinking 'honey, can you stop for me'...but that's when I'm either working or sleeping. I've read up on hiccups and babies - they are normal. What they also say is that if she has them that much now, she will most likely have them that much when she is born. The poor thing! But I do know that when she does have the hiccups, people are able to feel them if they place their hand on my belly. I was happy to hear that the hiccups have nothing to do with food. When someone asked what type of foods I was eating, I was worried because I love all the bad food I eat and I did not want to have to stop. But I've done my fair portion of research and no signs point to what type of food I'm eating, wfew! But I do feel bad for this cutie patootie because when she gets them, she moves around a lot and Chris and I both think it is because she gets annoyed by them. Aw!
I love my little baby, but this girl gets hiccups at least 4 or 5 times a day. At first, I thought it was the cutest thing. However, there are times, I admit, that I'm thinking 'honey, can you stop for me'...but that's when I'm either working or sleeping. I've read up on hiccups and babies - they are normal. What they also say is that if she has them that much now, she will most likely have them that much when she is born. The poor thing! But I do know that when she does have the hiccups, people are able to feel them if they place their hand on my belly. I was happy to hear that the hiccups have nothing to do with food. When someone asked what type of foods I was eating, I was worried because I love all the bad food I eat and I did not want to have to stop. But I've done my fair portion of research and no signs point to what type of food I'm eating, wfew! But I do feel bad for this cutie patootie because when she gets them, she moves around a lot and Chris and I both think it is because she gets annoyed by them. Aw!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Mommy's Not the Only One Hobbling Around
Sunday, September 27, 2009 – Day 196
Written by Baby Daddy:
A couple of weeks ago I'm playing soccer Sunday night like always. The ball goes over my head and I'm getting ready to play it off of the boards. I'm completely stopped, waiting for the ball to bounce to me. It takes an awkward bounce and goes to my right. I turn to go after it, and that's when it goes downhill. My knee pops and I immediately collapse. The ref who was halfway down the field said he heard it and also said "I think that was your ACL." I had no idea what he was talking about since I have never had any kind of injury before. One of the most severe things that has caused me to see a doctor was strep throat....pretty weak. Anyway, anyone who knows me knows that I never go to the doctor otherwise. I decided to wait and see how my knee felt in a week. One week goes by and I still cannot bend my knee back. A bunch of people at work see me limping around and basically scare me into getting an MRI. Good thing because it revealed that my ACL was in fact completely torn. My only option now is surgery, because ACL's do not heal themselves. It gets even worse, I'll be on crutches for 2 weeks, will not be able to drive for a month, and will not be back soccer for about a year. I think this could have been a career ender for me. I cannot afford to have another injury like this while taking care of our baby girl. I feel so bad for Angie. Now she has 2 babies to take care of!
Written by Baby Daddy:
A couple of weeks ago I'm playing soccer Sunday night like always. The ball goes over my head and I'm getting ready to play it off of the boards. I'm completely stopped, waiting for the ball to bounce to me. It takes an awkward bounce and goes to my right. I turn to go after it, and that's when it goes downhill. My knee pops and I immediately collapse. The ref who was halfway down the field said he heard it and also said "I think that was your ACL." I had no idea what he was talking about since I have never had any kind of injury before. One of the most severe things that has caused me to see a doctor was strep throat....pretty weak. Anyway, anyone who knows me knows that I never go to the doctor otherwise. I decided to wait and see how my knee felt in a week. One week goes by and I still cannot bend my knee back. A bunch of people at work see me limping around and basically scare me into getting an MRI. Good thing because it revealed that my ACL was in fact completely torn. My only option now is surgery, because ACL's do not heal themselves. It gets even worse, I'll be on crutches for 2 weeks, will not be able to drive for a month, and will not be back soccer for about a year. I think this could have been a career ender for me. I cannot afford to have another injury like this while taking care of our baby girl. I feel so bad for Angie. Now she has 2 babies to take care of!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Week 27 Down - Starting Week 28
Saturday, September 26, 2009 – Day 195
I can't tell if I think it has gone fast or slow. I am an instant gratification sort of person, so I'm usually in the mentality that I can't wait for things to get here. BUT with pregnancy, I know it is a journey and every step is an awesome bonding experience so I think 9/10 months is a perfect length of time. Then I think it has gone by super fast and I can't believe I'm in my 3rd trimester already. Although, I really didn't start my pregnancy until Month 3 since I was 8 weeks pregnant when I found out. But all in all, I'm at 7 months and my belly is big enough for people to know I'm pregnant. 3 months to go. Chris wanted to know why it isn't 9 months like we've been programmed to think pregnancy is and trying to explain the first month of pre-conception, etc was not my forte.
But looking it up online is explained like this: We all know that pregnancies cover a period of 40 weeks, and if you consider 4 weeks to be a month then you would be correct in saying that a pregnancy covers 10 months. On average though there are actually 4.33 weeks in every month according to the Gregorian calendar that the world goes by. However, neither of these calculations is actually accurate. The way your health care provider will calculate your due date by doing the following: Add nine months and seven days to the date which you started your period (LMP). This would be about 7 days if you were on a 28 day cycle.
So calculating the due date by counting the date of my last period, it would be 40 weeks. Although, I didn't have one, so my due date is measured by the size of baby when I found out I was pregnant. It is a bit confusing and when it hits 36 weeks and I tell people I'm 9 months pregnant, they are going to wonder why I'm not currently in labor. Although - most moms already know it just means I've hit my final month.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Stress & Pregnancy
Friday, September 25th, 2009 – Day 194
I consider myself to be a pretty even keeled person who rarely stresses over things. I actually think I work better under pressure and a little stress here and there. But I guess everyone has a day or two from time to time where the stress level is a bit higher than normal. I wanted to find out how stress directly related to pregnancy, so I did a search. Doesn't look good. Says Stress results in the perception of emotional strain as well as physical responses, such as an increase in heart rate or stress hormones. Some findings have shown that during the first trimester and postpartum stress is felt more deeply, or at least has a greater effect on physical factors.
There seems to be some buffering from the severity of stress in the second trimester and even more so in the third trimester, although no one knows why this is. For instance, one study found that heart rate is less affected by stress (that is, the numbers aren't as high) in expectant mothers during the second and third trimesters compared with women who aren't pregnant. Regardless of the studies, however, it's fair to say that a pregnant woman's emotional response to stress may still be severe.
Well, to me, that doesn't sound good. So to deal with stress, I'll just have to make sure that I don't let things get to me. I want my baby to be safe and sound in her oven and growing normally. I consider myself to be a very happy person pretty much all the time so if I get stressed once in a while, I guess that is okay.
I consider myself to be a pretty even keeled person who rarely stresses over things. I actually think I work better under pressure and a little stress here and there. But I guess everyone has a day or two from time to time where the stress level is a bit higher than normal. I wanted to find out how stress directly related to pregnancy, so I did a search. Doesn't look good. Says Stress results in the perception of emotional strain as well as physical responses, such as an increase in heart rate or stress hormones. Some findings have shown that during the first trimester and postpartum stress is felt more deeply, or at least has a greater effect on physical factors.
There seems to be some buffering from the severity of stress in the second trimester and even more so in the third trimester, although no one knows why this is. For instance, one study found that heart rate is less affected by stress (that is, the numbers aren't as high) in expectant mothers during the second and third trimesters compared with women who aren't pregnant. Regardless of the studies, however, it's fair to say that a pregnant woman's emotional response to stress may still be severe.
Well, to me, that doesn't sound good. So to deal with stress, I'll just have to make sure that I don't let things get to me. I want my baby to be safe and sound in her oven and growing normally. I consider myself to be a very happy person pretty much all the time so if I get stressed once in a while, I guess that is okay.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Halloween for Pregnant Girls
Thursday, September 24th, 2009 – Day 193
Most of you know I do a Halloween Party every year called the Halloween Bus Party www.halloweenbusparty.com. I started it in the year 2000 and this year will be my 10 year anniversary. It was originally my hope to wait until after the Halloween Party this year, as well as our trip to Thailand before we got pregnant. But she couldn't wait and we wouldn't change anything on when we got pregnant this year. We are overjoyed and of course our trip to Thailand can wait. The Halloween Bus Party is a different story. I thought about not having it, but being my 10 year anniversary - I just couldn't do that to all of those 300+ people expecting to attend. So I'm going to have it and already several people have signed up. I've already started the planning process and it is all coming together.
What is ironic about the Halloween party is that I can never decide what I'm going to wear until the last minute. So I already have a hard time deciding what I'm going to wear. But this year, it is even harder because I'm going to be 8 month pregnant. I know of all of the typical pregnancy costumes like the Baker and the Bun in the Oven, Pregnant Nun and Priest, paint my belly like a basketball or fishbowl or watermelon. But I just can't settle on what I want to be. I really want to be something unique. Something that everyone says 'wow, that's clever'. I saw a disco ball costume that was really neat, but it looked like a lot of work. I have a few ideas, but getting it accomplished is going to be the hard part. I'm open to ideas!! I have to be able to still organize the bus party, as well as get onto the buses with ease. But no matter what, I'm sure it will be a lot of fun.
Most of you know I do a Halloween Party every year called the Halloween Bus Party www.halloweenbusparty.com. I started it in the year 2000 and this year will be my 10 year anniversary. It was originally my hope to wait until after the Halloween Party this year, as well as our trip to Thailand before we got pregnant. But she couldn't wait and we wouldn't change anything on when we got pregnant this year. We are overjoyed and of course our trip to Thailand can wait. The Halloween Bus Party is a different story. I thought about not having it, but being my 10 year anniversary - I just couldn't do that to all of those 300+ people expecting to attend. So I'm going to have it and already several people have signed up. I've already started the planning process and it is all coming together.
What is ironic about the Halloween party is that I can never decide what I'm going to wear until the last minute. So I already have a hard time deciding what I'm going to wear. But this year, it is even harder because I'm going to be 8 month pregnant. I know of all of the typical pregnancy costumes like the Baker and the Bun in the Oven, Pregnant Nun and Priest, paint my belly like a basketball or fishbowl or watermelon. But I just can't settle on what I want to be. I really want to be something unique. Something that everyone says 'wow, that's clever'. I saw a disco ball costume that was really neat, but it looked like a lot of work. I have a few ideas, but getting it accomplished is going to be the hard part. I'm open to ideas!! I have to be able to still organize the bus party, as well as get onto the buses with ease. But no matter what, I'm sure it will be a lot of fun.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Ouch - Leg Cramp
Wednesday, September 23rd, 2009 – Day 192
Okay, there are a lot of great things about pregnancy, but one thing that I could definitely do without are the leg cramps. I have been taking potassium pills to help, but it never fails - in the middle of the night - I sit up, grab my leg and start rubbing. All the while, trying not to scream out in pain so I don't wake up Chris. All I can say is ouch. I know they are very common, but I didn't get them until now and it seems like every night I get one or sometimes two. But, I know it is all worth it in the end.
Okay, there are a lot of great things about pregnancy, but one thing that I could definitely do without are the leg cramps. I have been taking potassium pills to help, but it never fails - in the middle of the night - I sit up, grab my leg and start rubbing. All the while, trying not to scream out in pain so I don't wake up Chris. All I can say is ouch. I know they are very common, but I didn't get them until now and it seems like every night I get one or sometimes two. But, I know it is all worth it in the end.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
She Gets Hiccups
Tuesday, September 22nd, 2009 – Day 191
I know everyone who has been pregnant says 'wait until she gets hiccups.' Well, I finally have felt her have hiccups. Chris was feeling for her and talking like he does every night to see if she'll move. He said 'is that your heartbeat?' I felt my heartbeat and it wasn't what he was feeling and then it dawned on me that she has hiccups. She had them for quite some time. Then the next day, she got them during the middle of the night. It is so precious, but I've heard that as she gets bigger, the hiccups are more noticable and if I'm trying to sleep, they can be disruptive. But it still just seems so precious.
I know everyone who has been pregnant says 'wait until she gets hiccups.' Well, I finally have felt her have hiccups. Chris was feeling for her and talking like he does every night to see if she'll move. He said 'is that your heartbeat?' I felt my heartbeat and it wasn't what he was feeling and then it dawned on me that she has hiccups. She had them for quite some time. Then the next day, she got them during the middle of the night. It is so precious, but I've heard that as she gets bigger, the hiccups are more noticable and if I'm trying to sleep, they can be disruptive. But it still just seems so precious.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Feel Like Al Bundy
Monday, September 21st, 2009 – Day 190
I find myself with my hand partly down the front of my pants waiting to feel baby all the time. Now keep in mind that my pants are much higher than they were before. Every time I do, I feel like Al Bundy. But I just love feeling her move around. She is an active one too. I'm not sure about all the other soon-to-be babies out there, but my little girl is extremely active. I love it and so does her daddy. I know as she gets bigger, she won't be as active because she'll have less room. No matter what, I'm sure I'll still feel like Al Bundy always trying to feel her move.
I find myself with my hand partly down the front of my pants waiting to feel baby all the time. Now keep in mind that my pants are much higher than they were before. Every time I do, I feel like Al Bundy. But I just love feeling her move around. She is an active one too. I'm not sure about all the other soon-to-be babies out there, but my little girl is extremely active. I love it and so does her daddy. I know as she gets bigger, she won't be as active because she'll have less room. No matter what, I'm sure I'll still feel like Al Bundy always trying to feel her move.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Mommy & Daddy Brain at Its Finest
Sunday, September 20th, 2009 – Day 189
Written by Baby Daddy:
Last week Angie had a work even at Eckert's Farm and she had a "Mommy Brain" moment while talking with fellow employees. She was in charge of organizing the event so when people came up, she welcomed them to the event and was getting them to register for a prize. While she was talking to one couple, they had asked her how many people were registered to attend and she replied, "there are 262 people registered to vote." They both looked at each other with confused expressions, while myself and another co-worker of Angie's busted out laughing.
There was also another instance the other night where Angie said to pull around to the "packed barking lot" instead of the obvious.
Now I can say that it's not just happening to her as I've had a few moments of my own. We were pulling up to our friend Lisa's house and I asked Angie if she was home when her car (it's her only car) was sitting right there in the driveway. I'm not sure what was going on there. I keep telling Angie that I did that to make her not feel as bad, but she's knows better.....Darn!!
Written by Baby Daddy:
Last week Angie had a work even at Eckert's Farm and she had a "Mommy Brain" moment while talking with fellow employees. She was in charge of organizing the event so when people came up, she welcomed them to the event and was getting them to register for a prize. While she was talking to one couple, they had asked her how many people were registered to attend and she replied, "there are 262 people registered to vote." They both looked at each other with confused expressions, while myself and another co-worker of Angie's busted out laughing.
There was also another instance the other night where Angie said to pull around to the "packed barking lot" instead of the obvious.
Now I can say that it's not just happening to her as I've had a few moments of my own. We were pulling up to our friend Lisa's house and I asked Angie if she was home when her car (it's her only car) was sitting right there in the driveway. I'm not sure what was going on there. I keep telling Angie that I did that to make her not feel as bad, but she's knows better.....Darn!!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Entering My Third Trimester
Saturday, September 19th, 2009 – Day 188
I can't believe my third trimester is here! It seems like it has gone so fast and before I know it, it will be time for delivery. I was thinking that 9 months seemed like an eternity, but I do think it is the perfect amount of time. It really is a great time to bond with baby, get things mapped out, and of course bonding time with my hubby. I'm going to be starting my every two week appointments too. But I'm glad to be hitting the backstretch. She's growing fast and I can't wait to meet her.
I can't believe my third trimester is here! It seems like it has gone so fast and before I know it, it will be time for delivery. I was thinking that 9 months seemed like an eternity, but I do think it is the perfect amount of time. It really is a great time to bond with baby, get things mapped out, and of course bonding time with my hubby. I'm going to be starting my every two week appointments too. But I'm glad to be hitting the backstretch. She's growing fast and I can't wait to meet her.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Gestational Diabetes Test
Friday, September 18th, 2009 – Day 187
My doctor told me its time to go get tested for gestational diabetes. I hate giving blood, but knowing this whole process if for my baby - I'm up for the task. Of course I'm praying I don't test positive because it doesn't sound like something anyone would want, but 10% of pregnant women test positive. My grandfather had diabetes but after he became a large in his later years. Hopefully, I okay. I'm planning on going sometime next week to get this done. I'll keep everyone posted on the results.
My doctor told me its time to go get tested for gestational diabetes. I hate giving blood, but knowing this whole process if for my baby - I'm up for the task. Of course I'm praying I don't test positive because it doesn't sound like something anyone would want, but 10% of pregnant women test positive. My grandfather had diabetes but after he became a large in his later years. Hopefully, I okay. I'm planning on going sometime next week to get this done. I'll keep everyone posted on the results.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Babies R Us - Outrageous Shipping
Thursday, September 17th, 2009 – Day 186
I am new to Babies R Us but of course I love having a registry. The first purchase was made from our registry and it was by my dad. He was instructed by my Grandma to go get something big and of course he is a mommy's boy so he gave me a ring to discuss. I just told him to get one of the 3 furniture items from our registry. Chris and I are super excited about the furniture we picked out for our baby girl because the crib converts into a queen headboard/footboard which is perfect because we have two sets of queen mattresses. But this means that she can use this set of furniture her entire young life...maybe even 18 years. So to us, the furniture, although a big expensive, is worth the investment. My dad lives in Springfield, IL and I wasn't even thinking about shipping or anything like that mainly because I wasn't quite sure what it all entails. So my dad goes on the registry and picks out the large dresser for $359. But what happened when he went to pay was Babies R Us tacked on $160 in shipping charges and $40 in taxes. So his bill came out to be over $550 dollars. Of course, had I known, I would have had him mail us a check, we would have gone up to Babies R Us down the road from us and purchased it there. The sale went through and eventhough my dad tried to cancel, it was too late and the item was shipped.
So I'm writing this more to let people know that if you see something on our registry and don't want to pay for the shipping, let us know - we'll pick it up at the store near our house. We hate hearing about people having to pay outrageous shipping. Sorry dad!
I am new to Babies R Us but of course I love having a registry. The first purchase was made from our registry and it was by my dad. He was instructed by my Grandma to go get something big and of course he is a mommy's boy so he gave me a ring to discuss. I just told him to get one of the 3 furniture items from our registry. Chris and I are super excited about the furniture we picked out for our baby girl because the crib converts into a queen headboard/footboard which is perfect because we have two sets of queen mattresses. But this means that she can use this set of furniture her entire young life...maybe even 18 years. So to us, the furniture, although a big expensive, is worth the investment. My dad lives in Springfield, IL and I wasn't even thinking about shipping or anything like that mainly because I wasn't quite sure what it all entails. So my dad goes on the registry and picks out the large dresser for $359. But what happened when he went to pay was Babies R Us tacked on $160 in shipping charges and $40 in taxes. So his bill came out to be over $550 dollars. Of course, had I known, I would have had him mail us a check, we would have gone up to Babies R Us down the road from us and purchased it there. The sale went through and eventhough my dad tried to cancel, it was too late and the item was shipped.
So I'm writing this more to let people know that if you see something on our registry and don't want to pay for the shipping, let us know - we'll pick it up at the store near our house. We hate hearing about people having to pay outrageous shipping. Sorry dad!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
One of My Best Friends is also Pregnant - Yay
Wednesday, September 16th, 2009 – Day 185
One of my best friends called me yesterday and told me she is 3 months pregnant. We had a great conversation about good books we've read, some of the funny pregnancy stupids stories, acne, guessing the gender, flutters/kicks, etc. It just is crazy how life changes and I look back to when she and I were in college days, when we lived together and just the last times we've partied together. Boy have we had some great times. It is really great that she and her husband have gotten pregnant - I know they've been trying. I have another BFF who I also am praying for to get pregnant soon. Heck, why don't all of my BFFs get pregnant all at the same time - now that'd be something. Although my older BFFs might shoot me!
One of my best friends called me yesterday and told me she is 3 months pregnant. We had a great conversation about good books we've read, some of the funny pregnancy stupids stories, acne, guessing the gender, flutters/kicks, etc. It just is crazy how life changes and I look back to when she and I were in college days, when we lived together and just the last times we've partied together. Boy have we had some great times. It is really great that she and her husband have gotten pregnant - I know they've been trying. I have another BFF who I also am praying for to get pregnant soon. Heck, why don't all of my BFFs get pregnant all at the same time - now that'd be something. Although my older BFFs might shoot me!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Ouch - That's what that is?
Tuesday, September 15th, 2009 – Day 184
Okay, I hate to bring up such a bad topic, but I honestly did not know what hemorroids were until now. I have heard the term, I know a zillion people who have had them, but I personally did not know (same with heartburn). However, I was telling Chris that I needed to talk to my doctor because I have a 'situation' down there. Luckily, I can talk to Chris about anything so when I told him what was going on - he said 'oh that's called hemorroids'. Well, I had no idea and honestly, I wish I had no idea because it is not a day in the park. But in all of my pregnancy books, they tell you that it is very common for pregnant women to get hemoroids. Darn the luck, I thought I'd slip by without that ailment. Well, I will still be bringing it up with my doc at my next visit and see if he has any remedies. Ugh!
Okay, I hate to bring up such a bad topic, but I honestly did not know what hemorroids were until now. I have heard the term, I know a zillion people who have had them, but I personally did not know (same with heartburn). However, I was telling Chris that I needed to talk to my doctor because I have a 'situation' down there. Luckily, I can talk to Chris about anything so when I told him what was going on - he said 'oh that's called hemorroids'. Well, I had no idea and honestly, I wish I had no idea because it is not a day in the park. But in all of my pregnancy books, they tell you that it is very common for pregnant women to get hemoroids. Darn the luck, I thought I'd slip by without that ailment. Well, I will still be bringing it up with my doc at my next visit and see if he has any remedies. Ugh!
Monday, September 14, 2009
A Friend's Baby Shower
Monday, September 14th, 2009 – Day 183
Went to a friend's baby shower yesterday and now that I'm pregnant, I have a bigger appreciation for them. It was a very nice shower and it was well attended, as was expected since my friend Meghan has 46 cousins. Of course there was the cutest little girl there who had brown hair, brown eyes and was very vocal. She was very entertaining to watch and said the cutest things. It just made me start to ponder what our little girl will look like. It is such a crazy thing to try to guess what she looks like, but part of the fun. My friend Meghan is a few weeks ahead of me and is also registered at Babies R Us. I think she got a lot of great gifts and she thinks she's having a boy...they didn't find out the gender. Another possibly boyfriend for my soon-to-be angel.
Went to a friend's baby shower yesterday and now that I'm pregnant, I have a bigger appreciation for them. It was a very nice shower and it was well attended, as was expected since my friend Meghan has 46 cousins. Of course there was the cutest little girl there who had brown hair, brown eyes and was very vocal. She was very entertaining to watch and said the cutest things. It just made me start to ponder what our little girl will look like. It is such a crazy thing to try to guess what she looks like, but part of the fun. My friend Meghan is a few weeks ahead of me and is also registered at Babies R Us. I think she got a lot of great gifts and she thinks she's having a boy...they didn't find out the gender. Another possibly boyfriend for my soon-to-be angel.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Bonding Time with Baby
Sunday, September 13th, 2009 – Day 182
Written by Baby Daddy
It's neat to see my wife getting bigger because I know our little girl is growing. I do speak to her all of the time and often tell her she is just like her ornery mother! I think she likes to play hide and seek with daddy, but sometimes she kicks and moves a ton. I got some advice the other day about changing diapers from the guy we bought our rings from at the Diamond Shop in Clayton. It is amazing how the news of an upcoming baby brings about lots of conversation about babies. He proceeds to tell me that when I am home with the baby, particularly if I take off for a couple weeks, that I should always change the diaper. To not let my wife change it the entire time I'm there. The reason why is because it is bonding time that baby gets with daddy that he otherwise would not get because daddies can't breastfeed and take off for an entire maternity leave, usually. So by changing the baby's diaper, it is minutes/hours/days spent one-on-one to bond. I thought it was a great way to look at getting extra bonding time with my baby.
Written by Baby Daddy
It's neat to see my wife getting bigger because I know our little girl is growing. I do speak to her all of the time and often tell her she is just like her ornery mother! I think she likes to play hide and seek with daddy, but sometimes she kicks and moves a ton. I got some advice the other day about changing diapers from the guy we bought our rings from at the Diamond Shop in Clayton. It is amazing how the news of an upcoming baby brings about lots of conversation about babies. He proceeds to tell me that when I am home with the baby, particularly if I take off for a couple weeks, that I should always change the diaper. To not let my wife change it the entire time I'm there. The reason why is because it is bonding time that baby gets with daddy that he otherwise would not get because daddies can't breastfeed and take off for an entire maternity leave, usually. So by changing the baby's diaper, it is minutes/hours/days spent one-on-one to bond. I thought it was a great way to look at getting extra bonding time with my baby.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Irritability Factor
Saturday, September 12th, 2009 – Day 181
So pregnancy has been smooth sailing up until this week. The irritability factor finally has set in. I'm not sure if it is my clothes, but it just seemed like I could not get comfortable for 10 or so minutes at a time. I had a crazy busy work week, one day working for 12 hours, so that may have been a factor. All I know is that I was determined to get to the store and buy bigger pants and a bigger bra (yes again). When I cross my legs, which I love to do, it makes my belly cramp and so I'm not able to do that very long. My maternity pants that I bought a few weeks ago are now too big. A week or so ago, I still had a small bump, but she's finally emerged and my belly is in full force - yay. But I think this means she is going to get bigger and quicker now. I'm excited about her growth, so the irritability factor is worth it.
So pregnancy has been smooth sailing up until this week. The irritability factor finally has set in. I'm not sure if it is my clothes, but it just seemed like I could not get comfortable for 10 or so minutes at a time. I had a crazy busy work week, one day working for 12 hours, so that may have been a factor. All I know is that I was determined to get to the store and buy bigger pants and a bigger bra (yes again). When I cross my legs, which I love to do, it makes my belly cramp and so I'm not able to do that very long. My maternity pants that I bought a few weeks ago are now too big. A week or so ago, I still had a small bump, but she's finally emerged and my belly is in full force - yay. But I think this means she is going to get bigger and quicker now. I'm excited about her growth, so the irritability factor is worth it.
Friday, September 11, 2009
More Time with Daddy
Friday, September 11th, 2009 – Day 180
As most of you know, Chris - my hard working husband, has had two jobs since I've known him. He works a full 40+ hour work week at Fabick and then a part time 3 days per week at Home Depot. He was supposed to quit over a year ago and he kept pushing it off from April 15th, to September 15 to December 15th. This entire year, I've just figured he'd push it off...but since baby will be coming soon, Chris has decided more time at home with me and baby are what he wants. He has plans to give his notice soon and I can't tell you how excited I am. He already works hard and he'll love having even more time at home spending quality time with me and the his little pot pie.
As most of you know, Chris - my hard working husband, has had two jobs since I've known him. He works a full 40+ hour work week at Fabick and then a part time 3 days per week at Home Depot. He was supposed to quit over a year ago and he kept pushing it off from April 15th, to September 15 to December 15th. This entire year, I've just figured he'd push it off...but since baby will be coming soon, Chris has decided more time at home with me and baby are what he wants. He has plans to give his notice soon and I can't tell you how excited I am. He already works hard and he'll love having even more time at home spending quality time with me and the his little pot pie.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
My Belly has Emerged
Thursday, September 10th, 2009 – Day 179
The weekend before last, I was still not showing enough for people to be confident in asking me whether I was pregnant or not. But somewhere during this past week, my belly has popped. Someone who saw me from one weekend to the next, like my mother-n-law, were amazed at the growth. I think my baby girl is finally tired of everyone saying how small my belly is, so she's making her presence known. I had the check-out lady from Wal-Mart ask me if I was pregnant. She has been the first and only person to ask me. So I'm 6 months pregnant and no one has been confident enough to ask me...well that is all about to change. My belly has grown beyond my boobs, finally. Besides noticing it, my belly itches all the time, so I definitely know its growing. Yay! I love it.
The weekend before last, I was still not showing enough for people to be confident in asking me whether I was pregnant or not. But somewhere during this past week, my belly has popped. Someone who saw me from one weekend to the next, like my mother-n-law, were amazed at the growth. I think my baby girl is finally tired of everyone saying how small my belly is, so she's making her presence known. I had the check-out lady from Wal-Mart ask me if I was pregnant. She has been the first and only person to ask me. So I'm 6 months pregnant and no one has been confident enough to ask me...well that is all about to change. My belly has grown beyond my boobs, finally. Besides noticing it, my belly itches all the time, so I definitely know its growing. Yay! I love it.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Flowers for the Pregnant Girl
Wednesday, September 9th, 2009 – Day 178
The other day, Chris and I were at Trader Joe's getting some cases of wine for a company event I was organizing. We are at the check-out and the lady behind the register says 'well when you drink all of this wine tonight, I just want you to know that we are open at 9:00am tomorrow if you need to pick up more.' I told her it wouldn't be me drinking all of this wine, while rubbing my belly. But told her that perhaps my husband, as I pointed at him, would possibly drink it all - and we laughed. She then asked when we were due and what we were having. We told her all that we knew. She was so excited for us and was really sweet. We paid our tab, walked out of the store pushing the cart towards our car, when all of a sudden, we hear someone behind us saying 'excuse me, excuse me.' I recognized the voice as the lady at the cash register. When I turned around, she was holding a huge bouquet of flowers saying 'these are for you, congratulations on your little girl.' We were both so shocked, we didn't even know what to say. I know I said thanks, but didn't give her the appreciative thanks she deserved. How sweet was that and just because I was pregnant! The flowers sit on my desk at work. When people ask me where I got them, they are amazed at the stories. I am already spoiled because I have two bouquets of flowers already on my desk from my sweet hubby. So now my desk looks like a nursery! I'm lucky!
The other day, Chris and I were at Trader Joe's getting some cases of wine for a company event I was organizing. We are at the check-out and the lady behind the register says 'well when you drink all of this wine tonight, I just want you to know that we are open at 9:00am tomorrow if you need to pick up more.' I told her it wouldn't be me drinking all of this wine, while rubbing my belly. But told her that perhaps my husband, as I pointed at him, would possibly drink it all - and we laughed. She then asked when we were due and what we were having. We told her all that we knew. She was so excited for us and was really sweet. We paid our tab, walked out of the store pushing the cart towards our car, when all of a sudden, we hear someone behind us saying 'excuse me, excuse me.' I recognized the voice as the lady at the cash register. When I turned around, she was holding a huge bouquet of flowers saying 'these are for you, congratulations on your little girl.' We were both so shocked, we didn't even know what to say. I know I said thanks, but didn't give her the appreciative thanks she deserved. How sweet was that and just because I was pregnant! The flowers sit on my desk at work. When people ask me where I got them, they are amazed at the stories. I am already spoiled because I have two bouquets of flowers already on my desk from my sweet hubby. So now my desk looks like a nursery! I'm lucky!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Our Little Pot Pie
Tuesday, September 8th, 2009 – Day 177
Sometimes when I wake up in the middle of the night, I find myself laying on my back. Although I try to stay on my sides - I can never help how I wake up. But sometimes, when I do wake up on my back, I can tell that she has moved into a little ball that sits on the very top of my belly. It almost resembles a volcano because some how, she has curled up in the fetal position and is in a little ball. It is the cutest thing. I'm not sure how she can get up there so high on my belly. I can feel her butt, head and sometimes her limbs. But as soon as I start she feels me, she'll move and then she's gone back deeper inside my belly. But I just love it. I told Chris about it and to see if he wanted me to wake him up the next time. He said yes. So last night I woke up early in the morning and there she was again, in a little ball on the top of my stomach - like a belly on top of a belly. I woke Chris up as fast as I could and he got a chance to see and feel her in that position. He just couldn't believe it. He kept feeling her butt and head and then she must have woken up and moved out of sight. But he was so excited to be able to see her like that. He said, it was like she was a little Pot Pie. So now he's been calling her his little Pot Pie - so cute.
Sometimes when I wake up in the middle of the night, I find myself laying on my back. Although I try to stay on my sides - I can never help how I wake up. But sometimes, when I do wake up on my back, I can tell that she has moved into a little ball that sits on the very top of my belly. It almost resembles a volcano because some how, she has curled up in the fetal position and is in a little ball. It is the cutest thing. I'm not sure how she can get up there so high on my belly. I can feel her butt, head and sometimes her limbs. But as soon as I start she feels me, she'll move and then she's gone back deeper inside my belly. But I just love it. I told Chris about it and to see if he wanted me to wake him up the next time. He said yes. So last night I woke up early in the morning and there she was again, in a little ball on the top of my stomach - like a belly on top of a belly. I woke Chris up as fast as I could and he got a chance to see and feel her in that position. He just couldn't believe it. He kept feeling her butt and head and then she must have woken up and moved out of sight. But he was so excited to be able to see her like that. He said, it was like she was a little Pot Pie. So now he's been calling her his little Pot Pie - so cute.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Baby Loves 3 Day Weekends
Monday, September 7th, 2009 – Day 176
Since mommy and daddy love 3 day weekends, of course baby does too. Although, on this holiday, Labor Day, I put everyone to work. I had a company event that I wanted to set up for at work because no one would be there and I wouldn't have time the next day during work hours to set up. So we went to Sams, Trader Joes and some other places, then went to my work and moved boxes, set up catering tables, drink tables, etc. It took us about 4 hours to get everything ready. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful husband to help me! But Labor Day is still nice because we got to sleep in and spend extra time together as a family.
Since mommy and daddy love 3 day weekends, of course baby does too. Although, on this holiday, Labor Day, I put everyone to work. I had a company event that I wanted to set up for at work because no one would be there and I wouldn't have time the next day during work hours to set up. So we went to Sams, Trader Joes and some other places, then went to my work and moved boxes, set up catering tables, drink tables, etc. It took us about 4 hours to get everything ready. I am very lucky to have such a wonderful husband to help me! But Labor Day is still nice because we got to sleep in and spend extra time together as a family.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
The Most Beautiful Thing I've Never Seen
Sunday, September 6th, 2009 – Day 175
Written by Baby Daddy.
I haven't even seen our baby yet, but I already know that she is going to be the most beautiful baby in the world. Today we went to Katma's for a BBQ and everyone was wanting to feel our baby girl kick. I think everyone was able to except for my poor sister (sorry Amber). Baby was also serenaded by Amber & my brother Dakota....the "Growing Pains" theme song. Anyone who has ever unfortunately heard my sister sing knows that she CANNOT SING AT ALL. I'm sure baby was covering her ears.
Written by Baby Daddy.
I haven't even seen our baby yet, but I already know that she is going to be the most beautiful baby in the world. Today we went to Katma's for a BBQ and everyone was wanting to feel our baby girl kick. I think everyone was able to except for my poor sister (sorry Amber). Baby was also serenaded by Amber & my brother Dakota....the "Growing Pains" theme song. Anyone who has ever unfortunately heard my sister sing knows that she CANNOT SING AT ALL. I'm sure baby was covering her ears.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
In all my Dreams, I'm Pregnant
Saturday, September 5th, 2009 – Day 174
They say you have more vivid dreams during pregnancy, and I can attest, it's true. Almost every dream seems so real. And in every dream, I'm pregnant. It's amazing to me how that happens. Last night, I dreamt I could see her entire leg sticking out of my belly. In the dream, I had Chris take a picture of her leg and her foot. Then she kicked while we were taking the picture and she kicked - her foot hit my boob and caused a hole just to the left of my nipple and milk started coming out. Isn't that weird the things we dream about. Later in the dream, Chris and I got into a huge fight because he was telling me I was trying to sneak wine at dinner. He said he saw me have 3 big gulps of white wine and in the dream I denied it. We fought over it all night. It just makes me laugh.
They say you have more vivid dreams during pregnancy, and I can attest, it's true. Almost every dream seems so real. And in every dream, I'm pregnant. It's amazing to me how that happens. Last night, I dreamt I could see her entire leg sticking out of my belly. In the dream, I had Chris take a picture of her leg and her foot. Then she kicked while we were taking the picture and she kicked - her foot hit my boob and caused a hole just to the left of my nipple and milk started coming out. Isn't that weird the things we dream about. Later in the dream, Chris and I got into a huge fight because he was telling me I was trying to sneak wine at dinner. He said he saw me have 3 big gulps of white wine and in the dream I denied it. We fought over it all night. It just makes me laugh.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Doctor says Everything is Perfect
Friday, September 4th, 2009 – Day 173
We had our 25 week doctor's appointment today and the first thing they do is measure my weight. I was not sure how much I had gained but was hoping it wasn't over any norm. Looks like I've only gained 12 pounds so far in this pregnancy...of course I can't tell if that sounds like a little or a lot, but I'm sure at least 5 of those pounds has to be in my boobs! But she's growing more rapidly now, so I'm sure I'll start gaining more weight as she progresses. Doc said it is exactly where he wants me to be, so that is always good to hear. He said our ultrasounds were perfect and there weren't any sort of negative signs. We talked about some other stuff, but it looked like all is great - yay! We did get to hear the heartbeat again and I thought I was going to do so well and not tear up, but nope - the tears of joy started to fall. But I'm happy to hear all is going great and we are on schedule. He said that our due date is even more confirmed as 12-20, so that is good to know.
We had our 25 week doctor's appointment today and the first thing they do is measure my weight. I was not sure how much I had gained but was hoping it wasn't over any norm. Looks like I've only gained 12 pounds so far in this pregnancy...of course I can't tell if that sounds like a little or a lot, but I'm sure at least 5 of those pounds has to be in my boobs! But she's growing more rapidly now, so I'm sure I'll start gaining more weight as she progresses. Doc said it is exactly where he wants me to be, so that is always good to hear. He said our ultrasounds were perfect and there weren't any sort of negative signs. We talked about some other stuff, but it looked like all is great - yay! We did get to hear the heartbeat again and I thought I was going to do so well and not tear up, but nope - the tears of joy started to fall. But I'm happy to hear all is going great and we are on schedule. He said that our due date is even more confirmed as 12-20, so that is good to know.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Does my baby speak spanish?
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009 – Day 172
So I was over at Lisa's house tonight watching TV and eating a ginormous pizza she got from Sam's. I was flipping through channels through all 100 of them a few times and nothing looked good. She didn't have a preference either. I was in the 80's when I realized there was something good on an earlier channel. I was thinking it was channel 16, so I typed that in and noticed it was on a commercial. So we sat there and waited and when the series came on, I said, no this isn't it. So I went up to channel 17 and it was on a commercial with a white pregnant women sitting on a park bench, so we sat there and waited again. All of a sudden I hear Lisa laughing hysterically and by that time I finally caught on because she said 'the Spanish channel, I hope baby can translate'. It was one of those, you had to be there moments, but I was laughing so hard I was in tears. Every day I do something just so airheadish. But we have some good laughs. Of course I blame it on the pregnancy stupids. Now I have friends who do some funny stuff from time to time and I blame it on the sympathy pregnancy stupids. It's great having a reason to be an airhead, which is so far from my usual self. But every day, I do at least one or two things and I just have to laugh at myself! I'm sure it will get worse as time progresses. Oh baby!
So I was over at Lisa's house tonight watching TV and eating a ginormous pizza she got from Sam's. I was flipping through channels through all 100 of them a few times and nothing looked good. She didn't have a preference either. I was in the 80's when I realized there was something good on an earlier channel. I was thinking it was channel 16, so I typed that in and noticed it was on a commercial. So we sat there and waited and when the series came on, I said, no this isn't it. So I went up to channel 17 and it was on a commercial with a white pregnant women sitting on a park bench, so we sat there and waited again. All of a sudden I hear Lisa laughing hysterically and by that time I finally caught on because she said 'the Spanish channel, I hope baby can translate'. It was one of those, you had to be there moments, but I was laughing so hard I was in tears. Every day I do something just so airheadish. But we have some good laughs. Of course I blame it on the pregnancy stupids. Now I have friends who do some funny stuff from time to time and I blame it on the sympathy pregnancy stupids. It's great having a reason to be an airhead, which is so far from my usual self. But every day, I do at least one or two things and I just have to laugh at myself! I'm sure it will get worse as time progresses. Oh baby!
Putting the House on the Market
Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009 – Day 171
Last weekend, we worked super hard to get more stuff done at our house. Chris has been working his booty off every chance he gets and almost everything is done. I helped with some stuff and we are both excited to how it is looking. We took photos and I've already started adding the pictures to the house selling website that we are creating to sell by owner. I think sometime Labor Day weekend, we should be able to officially put the sign in the yard. Even if we aren't able to sell before baby is born, we won't paint the spare bedroom because we are hopeful that we'll be able to sell sometime in the near future. But it is very exciting to think about how the layout would be if we were. I'm excited to get the new furniture in there and put some of the decorations up - it is going to look so cute. But I'll have to wait until we move into a new home...I'll just have to be patient.
Last weekend, we worked super hard to get more stuff done at our house. Chris has been working his booty off every chance he gets and almost everything is done. I helped with some stuff and we are both excited to how it is looking. We took photos and I've already started adding the pictures to the house selling website that we are creating to sell by owner. I think sometime Labor Day weekend, we should be able to officially put the sign in the yard. Even if we aren't able to sell before baby is born, we won't paint the spare bedroom because we are hopeful that we'll be able to sell sometime in the near future. But it is very exciting to think about how the layout would be if we were. I'm excited to get the new furniture in there and put some of the decorations up - it is going to look so cute. But I'll have to wait until we move into a new home...I'll just have to be patient.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Maternity Leave
Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009 – Day 171
A coworker came back for her first day back to work from maternity leave. She originally was going to take 6 or 8 weeks, but changed her mind to take the full 12 weeks. It was great to see her and get a few tidbits about her maternity leave, but I could tell it was hard for her to return. I noticed she called home a few times in private and didn't put any pictures of her beautiful little girl up. I think it was hard for her to even talk about being back and leaving baby at home with Daddy. I wonder how I'll do when I return from maternity leave. I've heard so many different scenerios and it is hard to say which category I'll fall in. Seeing my coworker back definitely makes me very sympathetic to her because it could very well be what I go through. I guess time will tell. I am planning on taking the full 12 weeks. I don't think there is a price I could put on the time I'm able to spend with my baby. I'm excited about every minute of maternity leave and having that time to bond with my baby girl. I'm also excited that Chris will be taking some time off as well to spend with us as we grow closer as a family. I'm so excited, I just can't even explain how I feel about what I have to look forward to.
A coworker came back for her first day back to work from maternity leave. She originally was going to take 6 or 8 weeks, but changed her mind to take the full 12 weeks. It was great to see her and get a few tidbits about her maternity leave, but I could tell it was hard for her to return. I noticed she called home a few times in private and didn't put any pictures of her beautiful little girl up. I think it was hard for her to even talk about being back and leaving baby at home with Daddy. I wonder how I'll do when I return from maternity leave. I've heard so many different scenerios and it is hard to say which category I'll fall in. Seeing my coworker back definitely makes me very sympathetic to her because it could very well be what I go through. I guess time will tell. I am planning on taking the full 12 weeks. I don't think there is a price I could put on the time I'm able to spend with my baby. I'm excited about every minute of maternity leave and having that time to bond with my baby girl. I'm also excited that Chris will be taking some time off as well to spend with us as we grow closer as a family. I'm so excited, I just can't even explain how I feel about what I have to look forward to.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Shopping for Baby's Room
Tuesday, September 1st, 2009 – Day 170
I went to Hobby Lobby yesterday and I went in for the purpose of buying something I needed for work, but then I saw all of these cute pink and chocolate brown baby items that were just darling. I grabbed a few items and some wall decorations, before I knew it, I had about 5 or 6 things in my cart. Chris was meeting me there because we were heading to dinner afterwards, but he was running a little late (Fabick finally ended their strike! wfew!). But I said 'don't worry honey, the longer you are, the more I'll be buying for baby'. He thought that was pretty darn funny, but it was even better when he showed up and we came across this frame together that said 'My Prince did come, his name is Daddy' and Chris just thought it was the cutest thing ever. Of course we got it too! See honey, it isn't as easy as you think!! I said the infamous 'I didn't have the intention of buying these things'...and he said 'isn't that what shop-a-holics usually say'. We had a good laugh. But he liked everything and I spent less than $75 bucks and of course I NEEDED it all, right mommies? lol I'm super excited to work on a baby room - just have to buy that next house first!
I went to Hobby Lobby yesterday and I went in for the purpose of buying something I needed for work, but then I saw all of these cute pink and chocolate brown baby items that were just darling. I grabbed a few items and some wall decorations, before I knew it, I had about 5 or 6 things in my cart. Chris was meeting me there because we were heading to dinner afterwards, but he was running a little late (Fabick finally ended their strike! wfew!). But I said 'don't worry honey, the longer you are, the more I'll be buying for baby'. He thought that was pretty darn funny, but it was even better when he showed up and we came across this frame together that said 'My Prince did come, his name is Daddy' and Chris just thought it was the cutest thing ever. Of course we got it too! See honey, it isn't as easy as you think!! I said the infamous 'I didn't have the intention of buying these things'...and he said 'isn't that what shop-a-holics usually say'. We had a good laugh. But he liked everything and I spent less than $75 bucks and of course I NEEDED it all, right mommies? lol I'm super excited to work on a baby room - just have to buy that next house first!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Kicking at my Pantline
Monday, August 31st, 2009 – Day 169
It is amazing how fast I am growing. I think it is going to continue now that I've finally started to show. I bought these maternity pants about a month ago and had not worn them yet. I put them on this morning and they felt pretty good...a little snug, but nothing too tight. But then I had breakfast, a big glass of juice and was off to work. It was about half way to work that I realized how tight my pants felt and as I do during my days, it always tends to feel tighter and tighter as the day wears on. I was sitting at my desk today and I was 100% sure that she was kicking at my pantline. It was all along horizontally the pant line that was semi-cutting into my belly. I could not help but laugh. I'd stand up and she'd stop, but the minute I would sit down again, there she goes kicking...so cute. It is the little things that are too cute.
It is amazing how fast I am growing. I think it is going to continue now that I've finally started to show. I bought these maternity pants about a month ago and had not worn them yet. I put them on this morning and they felt pretty good...a little snug, but nothing too tight. But then I had breakfast, a big glass of juice and was off to work. It was about half way to work that I realized how tight my pants felt and as I do during my days, it always tends to feel tighter and tighter as the day wears on. I was sitting at my desk today and I was 100% sure that she was kicking at my pantline. It was all along horizontally the pant line that was semi-cutting into my belly. I could not help but laugh. I'd stand up and she'd stop, but the minute I would sit down again, there she goes kicking...so cute. It is the little things that are too cute.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Daddy's Ornery Baby
Sunday, August 30th, 2009 – Day 168
Written by Baby Daddy.
Now I know this may sound funny since our little baby girl hasn't even been born yet, but she seems to be teasing daddy. I've been talking to her every night since our baby calendar said her hearing should be fully developed. For the first couple of weeks, I thought it was absolutely amazing that she would start moving when I talked to her. Now, she will be moving/kicking a bunch and Angie will call me over to see. I then start talking to her and she stops cold turkey. Even better yet, there have been several instances where she wasn't moving at all, I would talk to her and she would give me a couple of really good back to back kicks and then nothing again. It's almost as if she is saying "Leave me alone daddy.....I'm trying to sleep!" Haha. It looks like she is taking after mommy with regards to her orneryness.
Written by Baby Daddy.
Now I know this may sound funny since our little baby girl hasn't even been born yet, but she seems to be teasing daddy. I've been talking to her every night since our baby calendar said her hearing should be fully developed. For the first couple of weeks, I thought it was absolutely amazing that she would start moving when I talked to her. Now, she will be moving/kicking a bunch and Angie will call me over to see. I then start talking to her and she stops cold turkey. Even better yet, there have been several instances where she wasn't moving at all, I would talk to her and she would give me a couple of really good back to back kicks and then nothing again. It's almost as if she is saying "Leave me alone daddy.....I'm trying to sleep!" Haha. It looks like she is taking after mommy with regards to her orneryness.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
6 Months Down
Saturday, August 29th, 2009 – Day 167
Tomorrow is officially 6 months down. It seems like the days are flying by and she'll arrive before we know it. My bump has definitely grown and she seems to be vertical now instead of side to side the way she was for a long while. I am just wondering if she is still breech or she's started getting into position, as my doctor says. We have our 25 week doctor's appointment on Friday so we'll hopefully find out how she's doing. I wonder what my weight gain will be this time. Last time was about 8 or so pounds, and I really don't think I've gained much weight since last month, but who knows. It is very exciting though how fast pregnancy is flying by. I've enjoyed it thus far and I know I've been lucky to have an easy pregnancy so far, unlike other women, and hopefully the remaining 3/4 months will be the same. I wonder if my due date will change? It is set for December 20th as of now which was set when we found out we were pregnant. We didn't get to talk to our doctor when we got our last ultrasound pictures, so this appointment this week, he'll go over how she's progressing, any red flags, how things are going, etc. I pray everyday that she's progressing accordingley and all is well. It is just so exciting!
Tomorrow is officially 6 months down. It seems like the days are flying by and she'll arrive before we know it. My bump has definitely grown and she seems to be vertical now instead of side to side the way she was for a long while. I am just wondering if she is still breech or she's started getting into position, as my doctor says. We have our 25 week doctor's appointment on Friday so we'll hopefully find out how she's doing. I wonder what my weight gain will be this time. Last time was about 8 or so pounds, and I really don't think I've gained much weight since last month, but who knows. It is very exciting though how fast pregnancy is flying by. I've enjoyed it thus far and I know I've been lucky to have an easy pregnancy so far, unlike other women, and hopefully the remaining 3/4 months will be the same. I wonder if my due date will change? It is set for December 20th as of now which was set when we found out we were pregnant. We didn't get to talk to our doctor when we got our last ultrasound pictures, so this appointment this week, he'll go over how she's progressing, any red flags, how things are going, etc. I pray everyday that she's progressing accordingley and all is well. It is just so exciting!
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Remote Control Test
Friday, August 28th, 2009 – Day 166
I had heard that if you put a remote control on top of your belly during the later stages of pregnancy, the baby will kick it completely off. We decided to try it even though we are only at 6 months. It is amazing what we saw. She tried her very best to kick the remote off, but instead it just moved up and down and around. It was so neat to see her moving so much. We've been doing it the past couple days now and it is like she can tell there is something sitting on there and she wants it off. It is so cute.
I had heard that if you put a remote control on top of your belly during the later stages of pregnancy, the baby will kick it completely off. We decided to try it even though we are only at 6 months. It is amazing what we saw. She tried her very best to kick the remote off, but instead it just moved up and down and around. It was so neat to see her moving so much. We've been doing it the past couple days now and it is like she can tell there is something sitting on there and she wants it off. It is so cute.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Grandma is Knitting
Thursday, August 27th, 2009 – Day 165
My mom took a knitting class at the local church (by mistake), but instead of quiting the class when she found out what they meant by 'bring two needles with you', she decided to embrace it and go. She'd been working on a baby blanket for her soon-to-be granddaughter. But look at that ball of yarn, lol - I love my mom.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
The Joys of Pregnancy
Wednesday, August 26th, 2009 – Day 164
I'm definitely in full force with my pregnancy brain/stupids. I know a lot of my friends get a kick out of it and yes it does make me laugh too. Some of the things are just down right silly. I ran into the counter the other day - ouch - but it was more of how I did it...I knew it was there but did it anyway.
The latest thing is this check. I paid my dues for bowling and this is how I wrote out the check. The President of our league brought it back over and asked if it was missing anything. I didn't see anything wrong with it at first, but then I noticed the missing amount! What!?! How can I forget that - that is pretty important. But then I decided to take a picture of it and then handed the check back to the President. Ugh - Angie, it still is not filled out. We had a great laugh about it. Oh mommy brain! lol
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Getting Ready for Baby
Tuesday, August 25th, 2009 – Day 163
It seems like time is just flying by. I need to get in gear and start researching for classes and signed up. I have heard that if you wait too long, they fill up and you have your class just before pregnancy and sometimes if the baby comes early, you don't end up going to the class. I have so many things I want to do before she arrives and it is just amazing that I'm almost 6 months and I still have much to do. We are delivering at St. Lukes and I've heard nothing but great things about it. Great nurses, your own room. Your bed turns into the birthing table, etc. I like what I've heard. I am very scared of the whole birth experience and hearing some stories about giving birth, but I know it will all be worth it in the end. Just scary to think about the worse case scenarios, but I think that we all do that!
A friend who is a nurse was giving me the tip of telling my doctor not to cut down there, to let me tear naturally. It made perfect sense and I am definitely going to tell him. Tearing naturally has a faster recovery time and will actually tear less than if you are cut. If you get cut, it will tear easily and cause a bigger tear than if you had torn naturally. She had a million other things to say that really opened my eyes, but was great to hear. It didn't scare me but being a nurse, she had some insight that I was happy to hear.
It seems like time is just flying by. I need to get in gear and start researching for classes and signed up. I have heard that if you wait too long, they fill up and you have your class just before pregnancy and sometimes if the baby comes early, you don't end up going to the class. I have so many things I want to do before she arrives and it is just amazing that I'm almost 6 months and I still have much to do. We are delivering at St. Lukes and I've heard nothing but great things about it. Great nurses, your own room. Your bed turns into the birthing table, etc. I like what I've heard. I am very scared of the whole birth experience and hearing some stories about giving birth, but I know it will all be worth it in the end. Just scary to think about the worse case scenarios, but I think that we all do that!
A friend who is a nurse was giving me the tip of telling my doctor not to cut down there, to let me tear naturally. It made perfect sense and I am definitely going to tell him. Tearing naturally has a faster recovery time and will actually tear less than if you are cut. If you get cut, it will tear easily and cause a bigger tear than if you had torn naturally. She had a million other things to say that really opened my eyes, but was great to hear. It didn't scare me but being a nurse, she had some insight that I was happy to hear.
Monday, August 24, 2009
I Can Still Hang with the Big Dogs
Monday, August 24th, 2009 – Day 162
The girls weekend at the lake was a great time. I really wasn't sure if I'd be able to hang with the big dogs, but I think I did pretty well. Friday night we stopped into Dog Days to get our normal Insane Taco, and although they didn't have it on the menu anymore, we enjoyed a nice lunch with 5 other girls. We got to the house we were staying at and joined the remaining 7 girls and some other friends. It was really fun to sit and talk, catch up, we even karaoke'd and were up dancing around the house. I was up until almost 2 - I thought that was pretty good considering everyone was having a great intoxicated time and I could not partake in the drinking festivities, but I didn't let that stop me from having fun. Saturday we were at the pool and went boating and I was up until after midnight. Sunday we decided to stay down at the lake and drive back early and we were boating all day - I was excited to get the sun and baby seemed to like the boat ride. It was a great time!
The girls weekend at the lake was a great time. I really wasn't sure if I'd be able to hang with the big dogs, but I think I did pretty well. Friday night we stopped into Dog Days to get our normal Insane Taco, and although they didn't have it on the menu anymore, we enjoyed a nice lunch with 5 other girls. We got to the house we were staying at and joined the remaining 7 girls and some other friends. It was really fun to sit and talk, catch up, we even karaoke'd and were up dancing around the house. I was up until almost 2 - I thought that was pretty good considering everyone was having a great intoxicated time and I could not partake in the drinking festivities, but I didn't let that stop me from having fun. Saturday we were at the pool and went boating and I was up until after midnight. Sunday we decided to stay down at the lake and drive back early and we were boating all day - I was excited to get the sun and baby seemed to like the boat ride. It was a great time!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Daddy's 1st Outfit
Sunday, August 23nd, 2009 – Day 161
Written by Baby Daddy.
Lucky for us, Angie has several friends who have just recently had little ones of their own so we were told not to buy many outfits (boy or girl). Melissa had so kindly donated a ton of clothes & other misc baby items (Thanks so much Melissa!), but I still wanted to get at least 1 newborn outfit for our daughter that was from daddy. I came across this when Angie and I were at Old Navy, and I just couldn't resist. Angie found the matching beanie hat that made it complete. Did I do good or what? Seeing all these outfits makes it that much harder to wait for our little one to be born. I am just so excited and words cannot justify it!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
At the Lake with the Girls (and baby)
Saturday, August 22nd, 2009 – Day 160
Our annual girls trip is this weekend and it is something that we’ve done every year with virtually the same 10 or so girls. It literally takes us about a month or so to just get our schedules in order and find a weekend so we can all commit to going to the lake. We planned this trip back several months ago – that’s just what it takes – but so worth it.
The house we stay in is absolutely gorgeous and I’m thankful every time I’ve stayed there that I’ve had the opportunity. Most of the time I stay in the bunk room with 5 or 6 other girls. It always reminds me of camp and just a fun time. But this year, I was a bit worried about the sleeping arrangements and same as camping, I was worried I wouldn’t sleep. I’ve relied very much on sleeping pills and drinking to put me to sleep at the lake, but this year without either – I can picture myself up at every noise. Plus I tend to stay on the top bunk and going up and down to use the restroom as much as I need would be treacherous. Luckily, for me, the host has offered me one of the bedrooms so if I need to turn in early, get away from the noise or be close to the bathroom – I can. My friends are so good to me!
I’ve grown since the float trip but will be attempting to wear the same swimsuit, so I hope I fit! I guess we’ll see. I’m excited to get away with the girls for our annual trip. It is always a great time out on the boats, the pool, the restaurants/bars, shopping, etc.
Our annual girls trip is this weekend and it is something that we’ve done every year with virtually the same 10 or so girls. It literally takes us about a month or so to just get our schedules in order and find a weekend so we can all commit to going to the lake. We planned this trip back several months ago – that’s just what it takes – but so worth it.
The house we stay in is absolutely gorgeous and I’m thankful every time I’ve stayed there that I’ve had the opportunity. Most of the time I stay in the bunk room with 5 or 6 other girls. It always reminds me of camp and just a fun time. But this year, I was a bit worried about the sleeping arrangements and same as camping, I was worried I wouldn’t sleep. I’ve relied very much on sleeping pills and drinking to put me to sleep at the lake, but this year without either – I can picture myself up at every noise. Plus I tend to stay on the top bunk and going up and down to use the restroom as much as I need would be treacherous. Luckily, for me, the host has offered me one of the bedrooms so if I need to turn in early, get away from the noise or be close to the bathroom – I can. My friends are so good to me!
I’ve grown since the float trip but will be attempting to wear the same swimsuit, so I hope I fit! I guess we’ll see. I’m excited to get away with the girls for our annual trip. It is always a great time out on the boats, the pool, the restaurants/bars, shopping, etc.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Can You Feel Her?
Friday, August 21st, 2009 – Day 159
So many people have rubbed my belly and a couple have attempted to try to feel her movement, but really only Chris has been able to feel her. He has a ritual of talking to her and she’ll respond – it is the cutest and I love the way his face lights up. The other night, she was kicking up a storm and I asked Lisa if she wanted to feel her and she said yes. Lisa put her hand on the top of my belly and I covered her hand with mine (seems to help), and low and behold and pretty powerful kick. Lisa jumped back a bit and was like, wow. So I took her hand again and put it on the same spot and we waited a few seconds and then another big powerful kick. Lisa sat down in her chair with a stunned face and said ‘wow, I thought I’d feel a small tap, but not a powerful kick like that – so weird.’ I think it caught her a bit off guard, but she was happy to have felt her. I know it is different for me since I love knowing she’s moving around and active. Lisa said it was cool to feel her, she just didn’t realize how powerful her kicks/jabs were. I know it is like an alien is alive in your belly, because that is how I felt at first – but I treasure every movement from her. I just love it!
So many people have rubbed my belly and a couple have attempted to try to feel her movement, but really only Chris has been able to feel her. He has a ritual of talking to her and she’ll respond – it is the cutest and I love the way his face lights up. The other night, she was kicking up a storm and I asked Lisa if she wanted to feel her and she said yes. Lisa put her hand on the top of my belly and I covered her hand with mine (seems to help), and low and behold and pretty powerful kick. Lisa jumped back a bit and was like, wow. So I took her hand again and put it on the same spot and we waited a few seconds and then another big powerful kick. Lisa sat down in her chair with a stunned face and said ‘wow, I thought I’d feel a small tap, but not a powerful kick like that – so weird.’ I think it caught her a bit off guard, but she was happy to have felt her. I know it is different for me since I love knowing she’s moving around and active. Lisa said it was cool to feel her, she just didn’t realize how powerful her kicks/jabs were. I know it is like an alien is alive in your belly, because that is how I felt at first – but I treasure every movement from her. I just love it!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Double D’s – No Way!
Thursday, August 20th, 2009 – Day 158
Tonight I had Chris take me shopping. I almost passed out the other day because my bra was so tight and I felt claustrophobic. I hadn’t gone out to get any new bras and had just been wearing my normal 36 small C bras, well it was finally time to get some bigger coverage for my girls. I have never been fitted for a bra, but since I had grown so much, I decided ‘what the heck’. Chris was with me while the two ladies from Victoria Secret got their measuring tapes out and started their work. One said 36 and then she said Double D. I looked at Chris and his eyes nearly popped out of his head – guys are so funny. I was a bit in shock too. I mean I’ve heard of friends who had Double D’s and I’ve karaoke’d at the bar Double D’s but I never thought I’d ever have Double D’s unless I paid for them and I would never go that big!
So the ladies bring us back and she grabs some 36DD bras and decided to grab some 36D bras too. I go into the dressing room and tell Chris to follow along to help me and I start trying on these new ginormous bras. The 36Ds did not fit at all. They were so tight and I felt the same as I did before – like I had a corset on that was getting tighter and tighter. I sure as heck was not going to pay $40 or $50 for a bra that made me feel that way. So I tried on the 36DD bras and the cups fit very well, except they too were super tight around my chest. So I snuck out and grabbed some 38D and 38DD bras. The 38D bras did not fit in most of the bras, but there was one that was a convertible strapless (what I always buy) that fit pretty well (for now)…so I went with that one. I did try on the 38DD bras and they were a good fit, but I think I have a month or so before I need one with so much coverage.
Chris was super cute about the whole deal. I think he got a real education about bras that he never thought he’d get. He didn’t know what underwire was and kept commenting on how it looks so uncomfortable. He suggested I get one without it and I said that was near impossible unless it was a sports bra. He learned about straps, styles, colors, and the best SIZES. I asked if he was going to tell all of his friends I have DDs now and I didn’t quite get a straight answer – boys! Lol I’m just happy I’m more comfortable now in my new bra! Ah!
Tonight I had Chris take me shopping. I almost passed out the other day because my bra was so tight and I felt claustrophobic. I hadn’t gone out to get any new bras and had just been wearing my normal 36 small C bras, well it was finally time to get some bigger coverage for my girls. I have never been fitted for a bra, but since I had grown so much, I decided ‘what the heck’. Chris was with me while the two ladies from Victoria Secret got their measuring tapes out and started their work. One said 36 and then she said Double D. I looked at Chris and his eyes nearly popped out of his head – guys are so funny. I was a bit in shock too. I mean I’ve heard of friends who had Double D’s and I’ve karaoke’d at the bar Double D’s but I never thought I’d ever have Double D’s unless I paid for them and I would never go that big!
So the ladies bring us back and she grabs some 36DD bras and decided to grab some 36D bras too. I go into the dressing room and tell Chris to follow along to help me and I start trying on these new ginormous bras. The 36Ds did not fit at all. They were so tight and I felt the same as I did before – like I had a corset on that was getting tighter and tighter. I sure as heck was not going to pay $40 or $50 for a bra that made me feel that way. So I tried on the 36DD bras and the cups fit very well, except they too were super tight around my chest. So I snuck out and grabbed some 38D and 38DD bras. The 38D bras did not fit in most of the bras, but there was one that was a convertible strapless (what I always buy) that fit pretty well (for now)…so I went with that one. I did try on the 38DD bras and they were a good fit, but I think I have a month or so before I need one with so much coverage.
Chris was super cute about the whole deal. I think he got a real education about bras that he never thought he’d get. He didn’t know what underwire was and kept commenting on how it looks so uncomfortable. He suggested I get one without it and I said that was near impossible unless it was a sports bra. He learned about straps, styles, colors, and the best SIZES. I asked if he was going to tell all of his friends I have DDs now and I didn’t quite get a straight answer – boys! Lol I’m just happy I’m more comfortable now in my new bra! Ah!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
She Calms Me Down
Wednesday, August 19th, 2009 – Day 157
I think most people know me as a pretty even keel person. I don’t get worked up that easy and I’m pretty mellow most of the time. At work, I’m always professional and I never let anything get to me to where it shows on the outside. I take work as a passion I have and with everything I do, I use stress and pressure as a driver to do the best job that I can. I seldom ever show I’m stressed and honestly, I never really get stressed. But now that I’m pregnant, I’ve done some pretty silly things that I would have never done before. It is like I’m going faster than my mind can think and make some stupid little errors that I would have never made before. Even friends have commented (okay laughed) at how Angie, who never makes mistakes or grammatical errors in emails tends to do it a lot these days and better yet, just saying funny things that I would normally never say. I find it comical most of the time, except when it comes to work.
I had a typo in an email at work for an event we are hosting. I sent it out to the entire staff and soon realized there was a typo (which is a huge pet peeve of mine – and I never ever do that). I fixed the email, but somehow resent the exact same email that had the misspelling, so now there were two misspellings out there. Then I send an apology email saying – there was a typo and I will send them the correct email without the typo. What did I do, I sent them, for the third time, the same email with the typo. What on earth was I doing – this was so unlike me. Finally, I get the real one out there and follow-up with an email blaming the pregnancy, to which all the guys laughed and all the girls understood. I just wanted to crawl in a hole or have a very stiff Capri-son.
So this is not the only thing and now more than ever, I have found myself a bit stressed at times. Almost on cue, when I get stressed, my baby girl starts kicking me and of course it brings an instant smile to my face and all of my stressful thinking just washes away. It is so hard to describe what it feels like – the smile is on my face before I even realize it. All of a sudden it dawns on me that I have a big grin on my face – and all because of my little angel. So I am glad that she can calm me down when I need.
I think most people know me as a pretty even keel person. I don’t get worked up that easy and I’m pretty mellow most of the time. At work, I’m always professional and I never let anything get to me to where it shows on the outside. I take work as a passion I have and with everything I do, I use stress and pressure as a driver to do the best job that I can. I seldom ever show I’m stressed and honestly, I never really get stressed. But now that I’m pregnant, I’ve done some pretty silly things that I would have never done before. It is like I’m going faster than my mind can think and make some stupid little errors that I would have never made before. Even friends have commented (okay laughed) at how Angie, who never makes mistakes or grammatical errors in emails tends to do it a lot these days and better yet, just saying funny things that I would normally never say. I find it comical most of the time, except when it comes to work.
I had a typo in an email at work for an event we are hosting. I sent it out to the entire staff and soon realized there was a typo (which is a huge pet peeve of mine – and I never ever do that). I fixed the email, but somehow resent the exact same email that had the misspelling, so now there were two misspellings out there. Then I send an apology email saying – there was a typo and I will send them the correct email without the typo. What did I do, I sent them, for the third time, the same email with the typo. What on earth was I doing – this was so unlike me. Finally, I get the real one out there and follow-up with an email blaming the pregnancy, to which all the guys laughed and all the girls understood. I just wanted to crawl in a hole or have a very stiff Capri-son.
So this is not the only thing and now more than ever, I have found myself a bit stressed at times. Almost on cue, when I get stressed, my baby girl starts kicking me and of course it brings an instant smile to my face and all of my stressful thinking just washes away. It is so hard to describe what it feels like – the smile is on my face before I even realize it. All of a sudden it dawns on me that I have a big grin on my face – and all because of my little angel. So I am glad that she can calm me down when I need.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
She’s Grown
Tuesday, August 18th, 2009 – Day 156
According to my baby calendar, she is about 7.9 inches long crown to rump plus her legs and we’ve seen the ultrasound pics – they are long. Chris loves to talk to her and watch her respond. I do truly believe that she can recognize his voice because it never fails. What was interesting last night was that she was moving around and I could feel jabs/kicks down near the bottom of my belly and in the same breath up past my belly button. Not sure how she is positioned but it just seemed like she was stretched out and seemed extremely long. Some kicks/jabs are bigger/stronger than others and some are faint. I just love it and love how Chris can now feel baby respond and even better yet, he can see her move just by looking at my belly. I’m starting to pop a bit, but I still feel on the small side – I just wonder how she fits down there.
According to my baby calendar, she is about 7.9 inches long crown to rump plus her legs and we’ve seen the ultrasound pics – they are long. Chris loves to talk to her and watch her respond. I do truly believe that she can recognize his voice because it never fails. What was interesting last night was that she was moving around and I could feel jabs/kicks down near the bottom of my belly and in the same breath up past my belly button. Not sure how she is positioned but it just seemed like she was stretched out and seemed extremely long. Some kicks/jabs are bigger/stronger than others and some are faint. I just love it and love how Chris can now feel baby respond and even better yet, he can see her move just by looking at my belly. I’m starting to pop a bit, but I still feel on the small side – I just wonder how she fits down there.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Music to Her Ears
Monday, August 17th, 2009 – Day 155
I’ve noticed that when there is loud music, baby starts to kick a little and when it stops, so does she. I am so excited that she likes music because I love playing guitar and singing. I was singing/playing the Climb by Miley Cyrus and baby was just dancing around. I want to believe she’s dancing down there or at least enjoying the musical tones – at least that is what I tell myself!
I have enjoyed testing out my theories and hearing stories of others. My aunt was talking about her baby having the hiccups and ironically right when she was trying to go to sleep. Or seeing a foot imprint. It is all so excited and such a bonding experience.
I’ve noticed that when there is loud music, baby starts to kick a little and when it stops, so does she. I am so excited that she likes music because I love playing guitar and singing. I was singing/playing the Climb by Miley Cyrus and baby was just dancing around. I want to believe she’s dancing down there or at least enjoying the musical tones – at least that is what I tell myself!
I have enjoyed testing out my theories and hearing stories of others. My aunt was talking about her baby having the hiccups and ironically right when she was trying to go to sleep. Or seeing a foot imprint. It is all so excited and such a bonding experience.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Baby Responds to Daddy's Voice
Sunday, August 16th, 2009 - Day 154
Written by Baby Daddy.
I've made it a regular routine now to talk to our baby girl every night before bed. According to our baby calendar, not only can she hear, but she can now recognize our voices. I'll get close to Angie's tummy & tell our girl that "Daddy's here." I find it amazing that when I do this, she's seems to respond by moving around (even when she was not previously active). I tell Angie that she's showing off for Daddy. I've also noticed that I can now see our baby move now....how exciting!!
Written by Baby Daddy.
I've made it a regular routine now to talk to our baby girl every night before bed. According to our baby calendar, not only can she hear, but she can now recognize our voices. I'll get close to Angie's tummy & tell our girl that "Daddy's here." I find it amazing that when I do this, she's seems to respond by moving around (even when she was not previously active). I tell Angie that she's showing off for Daddy. I've also noticed that I can now see our baby move now....how exciting!!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Little Brown Baby
Saturday, August 15th, 2009 - Day 153
I am really hoping for a little brown baby. It is hard to say what our little bundle of joy will look like. I am thinking she'll have dark hair because Chris has jet black hair and most people think I do too, although mine is just brown. But there is a lot of it, so it looks darker than brown. Chris has hazel eyes with a small blue dot and I have brown eyes, so hard telling what her eyes will look like. But what I'm wondering is what her skin color will be. I am half Thai and get my olive skin from my mom. My dad is white as can be, so I get my Caucasian mix from my dad...and I do get quite pale in the winter time. Chris is half Caucasian and half Italian. You would think he'd have more color from being half Italian, but he is more fair than dark complected. So it is a toss up whether our little girl will be fair or olive skinned. I am really hoping we do have a little brown baby!
I am really hoping for a little brown baby. It is hard to say what our little bundle of joy will look like. I am thinking she'll have dark hair because Chris has jet black hair and most people think I do too, although mine is just brown. But there is a lot of it, so it looks darker than brown. Chris has hazel eyes with a small blue dot and I have brown eyes, so hard telling what her eyes will look like. But what I'm wondering is what her skin color will be. I am half Thai and get my olive skin from my mom. My dad is white as can be, so I get my Caucasian mix from my dad...and I do get quite pale in the winter time. Chris is half Caucasian and half Italian. You would think he'd have more color from being half Italian, but he is more fair than dark complected. So it is a toss up whether our little girl will be fair or olive skinned. I am really hoping we do have a little brown baby!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Old Navy Maternity Clothes
Friday, August 14th, 2009 - Day 152
I went to Old Navy to check out their maternity clothes, I was excited to see that they had pants that fit me pretty well. I had already purchased a ton of capri pants from Kohls and Macy's, but someone brought up a good point - what about fall. I hadn't found any long pants that fit and that I liked. A friend gave me a tip that Old Navy had maternity clothes. So yesterday I stopped in and every pair of pants I tried on fit perfectly. I was so excited. It is crazy how excited I get about maternity clothes - pregnancy brings out a whole new side of me. I haven't grown too big yet, but I know that any day now, I'm going to be as large as a house, so having places to buy clothes is nice. I've been to Motherhood Maternity, but didn't see anything I liked, but perhaps as I get bigger my view will change.
I went to Old Navy to check out their maternity clothes, I was excited to see that they had pants that fit me pretty well. I had already purchased a ton of capri pants from Kohls and Macy's, but someone brought up a good point - what about fall. I hadn't found any long pants that fit and that I liked. A friend gave me a tip that Old Navy had maternity clothes. So yesterday I stopped in and every pair of pants I tried on fit perfectly. I was so excited. It is crazy how excited I get about maternity clothes - pregnancy brings out a whole new side of me. I haven't grown too big yet, but I know that any day now, I'm going to be as large as a house, so having places to buy clothes is nice. I've been to Motherhood Maternity, but didn't see anything I liked, but perhaps as I get bigger my view will change.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Baby's First Bank Account
Thursday, August 13th, 2009 - Day 151
I wouldn't say that Chris has a potty mouth, but if he's upset - there are a few choice words that do come flying out of his mouth. Soccer, bowling, video games, road rage are a few of the items that 'force' him into a rage where he'll blurt out a cuss word or two. Now that baby is on the way, we are trying to get this habit stopped in time...and I have to admit I say a word here or there when I bowl bad.
So we are going to have a cuss jar. We'll have it ready to go for when/if Chris (or myself) ever say a cuss word in the house or around baby, he/I will have to put in a particular amount of money. In preparation for this, we'll both be required to have change/cash ready to go that will sit next to the cuss jar - so there's no excuse to donate once we've violated the rule.
All the money generated from the cuss jar will go into Baby's first bank account and you just never know, she may be rich before she's 5. Although, I do have to admit Chris has been better now that baby is starting to hear. We do have some good laughs over the idea, but I think it is a great idea and I'll be eager to see how much actually goes into the baby's first bank account from the cuss jar.
I wouldn't say that Chris has a potty mouth, but if he's upset - there are a few choice words that do come flying out of his mouth. Soccer, bowling, video games, road rage are a few of the items that 'force' him into a rage where he'll blurt out a cuss word or two. Now that baby is on the way, we are trying to get this habit stopped in time...and I have to admit I say a word here or there when I bowl bad.
So we are going to have a cuss jar. We'll have it ready to go for when/if Chris (or myself) ever say a cuss word in the house or around baby, he/I will have to put in a particular amount of money. In preparation for this, we'll both be required to have change/cash ready to go that will sit next to the cuss jar - so there's no excuse to donate once we've violated the rule.
All the money generated from the cuss jar will go into Baby's first bank account and you just never know, she may be rich before she's 5. Although, I do have to admit Chris has been better now that baby is starting to hear. We do have some good laughs over the idea, but I think it is a great idea and I'll be eager to see how much actually goes into the baby's first bank account from the cuss jar.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Thunder Rolls
Wednesday, August 12th, 2009 - Day 150
The other night there was a big storm. About 4:30am a huge crash of lightning hit down right next to the window, or at least that is what it sounded like. My heart was beating so hard and I know my doctor said to be careful not to get my heartrate too high because it puts the baby at risk, so I was worried. I was trying to feel for a kick or a jab, but I didn't feel anything. Then about 6:00ish the thunder was very often and loud. Every time thunder would roll, my little girl would start kicking like crazy. For at least 20 minutes or so, she probably kicked at least 100 times. In one hand, I was worried she was scared, but in the other hand, I really got spoiled because I got to feel her kicking so much. I am not sure if it was because when the thunder would hit, my heart rate would rise and possibly that is what she was hearing OR perhaps it was a direct result of the thunder.
The other night there was a big storm. About 4:30am a huge crash of lightning hit down right next to the window, or at least that is what it sounded like. My heart was beating so hard and I know my doctor said to be careful not to get my heartrate too high because it puts the baby at risk, so I was worried. I was trying to feel for a kick or a jab, but I didn't feel anything. Then about 6:00ish the thunder was very often and loud. Every time thunder would roll, my little girl would start kicking like crazy. For at least 20 minutes or so, she probably kicked at least 100 times. In one hand, I was worried she was scared, but in the other hand, I really got spoiled because I got to feel her kicking so much. I am not sure if it was because when the thunder would hit, my heart rate would rise and possibly that is what she was hearing OR perhaps it was a direct result of the thunder.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Oh Babies - Just Love Seeing Them
Tuesday, August 11th, 2009 - Day 149
A group of girls from work were at lunch with me today when a girl comes in with a 4 year old, 2 year old and a 6 week old. They were sitting right in front of me and every few seconds at least one of her girls were looking at me. I could not help but melt when they did with their cute little smiles. The 6 week old little girl was precious. She was so tiny and it just made me want my little girl even more. The mother looked at me and told me that I didn't even look pregnant...which seems to be the typical response anymore. The girl she was having lunch with was also pregnant and I asked when she was due and she said 'Any minute' - it was cute. She seemed like she is hoping for her to start any minute. She is hoping the spicy food she was about to eat would trigger something.
Then later in the day, my coworker had a friend come in who has a 6 month old. I saw the 6 month old when she was only 5 weeks old - she was so tiny. I got to hold her today and pick the brain of the mom about daycares, newborn questions, breastfeeding, etc. I seem to take advantage of that when I have the chance.
But there is one thing for - I am definitely in baby mode!
A group of girls from work were at lunch with me today when a girl comes in with a 4 year old, 2 year old and a 6 week old. They were sitting right in front of me and every few seconds at least one of her girls were looking at me. I could not help but melt when they did with their cute little smiles. The 6 week old little girl was precious. She was so tiny and it just made me want my little girl even more. The mother looked at me and told me that I didn't even look pregnant...which seems to be the typical response anymore. The girl she was having lunch with was also pregnant and I asked when she was due and she said 'Any minute' - it was cute. She seemed like she is hoping for her to start any minute. She is hoping the spicy food she was about to eat would trigger something.
Then later in the day, my coworker had a friend come in who has a 6 month old. I saw the 6 month old when she was only 5 weeks old - she was so tiny. I got to hold her today and pick the brain of the mom about daycares, newborn questions, breastfeeding, etc. I seem to take advantage of that when I have the chance.
But there is one thing for - I am definitely in baby mode!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Don't Make Me Call Grandma
Monday, August 10th, 2009 - Day 148
Isn't this the cutest bib. As we all know, Chris's mom Kathi is super excited about the arrival of her first grandchild. She bought this bib and a few other things including a Christmas outfit.
I do love how excited she is. I even named her 'Katma' which I think is perfect. I know my little girl is going to be spoiled by her grandma Kathi and the rest of the family. When we got the results of our last ultrasound to whether we were having a girl or a boy, we called Kathi first because we knew she would have the best reaction. She never disappoints because when we called her, she was already crying in joy and she hadn't heard the news yet. It was so sweet.
I know that Katma will take good care of her little grandbaby when she gets to watch her.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Daddy's Blog
Sunday, August 9th, 2009 - Day 147
Written by Baby Daddy:
This weekend Angie, myself, & baby had a float / camping trip. The forecast was for HOT, HOT, and more HOT weather. Lucky for us Lisa K (Liza) brought an A/C unit down which made the camping portion that much more enjoyable. We had the cooler loaded up with good food & alcohol (juice boxes for mom). Our little girl must have been excited as well because she was quite active. I could feel a lot of movement and a hard spot which sort of felt like her head. She seems to move around so quickly so sometimes its hard to catch up with her. She's starting to take after mommy.....always active.
Written by Baby Daddy:
This weekend Angie, myself, & baby had a float / camping trip. The forecast was for HOT, HOT, and more HOT weather. Lucky for us Lisa K (Liza) brought an A/C unit down which made the camping portion that much more enjoyable. We had the cooler loaded up with good food & alcohol (juice boxes for mom). Our little girl must have been excited as well because she was quite active. I could feel a lot of movement and a hard spot which sort of felt like her head. She seems to move around so quickly so sometimes its hard to catch up with her. She's starting to take after mommy.....always active.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Newborns - When is Okay?
Saturday, August 8th, 2009 - Day 146
Here is my blanket question to all of the former expectant mothers...What, in your opinion, is the rule of thumb for taking the newborn out of the house the days after you get home from the hospital. I have not formed my own opinion and I always find it useful to hear what other mothers feel is good. Now, will I take your advice - maybe not/maybe so, and I would hope if I don't, you won't be offended. I asked some friends the past week and one said about a week and then it is okay so you can help build the immunities because he feels that the baby's system is the strongest at that time. Then I had another friend say that she stuck to a 30 day rule because babies are the most prone during that time.
I don't agree or disagree with either, because as I said I don't have an opinion yet. Plus I can't tell you what my emotional or recovery state will be after I have this baby. But I would like to hear what you did in your situations. I'd prefer suggestions or examples of what you did...please refrain from saying 'people MUST...' or 'it is horrible if...', etc. I do not want this to turn into a battle of what is right and wrong - only suggestions/advice/opinions, please.
The reason why I am asking is because since our baby is due in December, there is a chance it could be 5, 10, maybe more days before Christmas. Of course, we most likely won't be making it to all 9 of our family Christmas's this year (yes, that is 9 places we usually go), but if we wanted to get out on the day we were feeling up for it, then when is okay. I can tell you that although I am a planner, we won't be making any committments for Christmas this year in advance. It will most likely be a gameday decision because depending on how I feel, how I'm recovering and how things are going those first days/weeks home from the hospital will determine our schedule and likely it will be the day of that event that we'll decide.
I'm sure we'd weigh the options out too, will there be any sicklings there, how many kids will be there, do they have pets, will it be crowded, how far do we have to drive, etc...I'm sure we'll have a lot weighing on our minds BUT say we were up for it, when, in your opinion, would it be okay - 5 days or more, 10 days or more, immediately, 30 days, etc. OR do you feel that we should not go anywhere and suggest that we stay at home and if we choose to have guests, we can. Heck, I'd probably be okay if someone wanted to postpone a gathering until January to get out of that 1-3 week newborn stage.
Comments are welcome! Right now, we are due December 20th...so you can base your advice/opinion on that date knowing that Christmas Eve & Christmas Day are 4 & 5 days after that.
Here is my blanket question to all of the former expectant mothers...What, in your opinion, is the rule of thumb for taking the newborn out of the house the days after you get home from the hospital. I have not formed my own opinion and I always find it useful to hear what other mothers feel is good. Now, will I take your advice - maybe not/maybe so, and I would hope if I don't, you won't be offended. I asked some friends the past week and one said about a week and then it is okay so you can help build the immunities because he feels that the baby's system is the strongest at that time. Then I had another friend say that she stuck to a 30 day rule because babies are the most prone during that time.
I don't agree or disagree with either, because as I said I don't have an opinion yet. Plus I can't tell you what my emotional or recovery state will be after I have this baby. But I would like to hear what you did in your situations. I'd prefer suggestions or examples of what you did...please refrain from saying 'people MUST...' or 'it is horrible if...', etc. I do not want this to turn into a battle of what is right and wrong - only suggestions/advice/opinions, please.
The reason why I am asking is because since our baby is due in December, there is a chance it could be 5, 10, maybe more days before Christmas. Of course, we most likely won't be making it to all 9 of our family Christmas's this year (yes, that is 9 places we usually go), but if we wanted to get out on the day we were feeling up for it, then when is okay. I can tell you that although I am a planner, we won't be making any committments for Christmas this year in advance. It will most likely be a gameday decision because depending on how I feel, how I'm recovering and how things are going those first days/weeks home from the hospital will determine our schedule and likely it will be the day of that event that we'll decide.
I'm sure we'd weigh the options out too, will there be any sicklings there, how many kids will be there, do they have pets, will it be crowded, how far do we have to drive, etc...I'm sure we'll have a lot weighing on our minds BUT say we were up for it, when, in your opinion, would it be okay - 5 days or more, 10 days or more, immediately, 30 days, etc. OR do you feel that we should not go anywhere and suggest that we stay at home and if we choose to have guests, we can. Heck, I'd probably be okay if someone wanted to postpone a gathering until January to get out of that 1-3 week newborn stage.
Comments are welcome! Right now, we are due December 20th...so you can base your advice/opinion on that date knowing that Christmas Eve & Christmas Day are 4 & 5 days after that.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Baby on Board - Float Trip This Weekend
Friday, August 7th, 2009 - Day 145
Watch out Meramec River Floaters this weekend! My bump may not be very large, but I can name two other things though - my boobs. They are continuing to grow and of course I'm not complaining, but my swimsuit is still the swimsuit I bought last summer and wore on last year's float trip. I'm still very excited to go and hang out with everyone. Sun and water sound so nice!!! I bought a ginormous tent online and Chris, Lisa and myself booked our own site with electricity, so we can plug in an air conditioning unit for comfort. I was afraid if we slept in the late night area, I would not be able to fall asleep because of the late night partiers or worst yet, the snorers. So being away from that area, having an air conditioning unit running and being very very close to the bathrooms - it is my hope that I won't have any problems sleeping or being comfortable. Guess we'll see!
Watch out Meramec River Floaters this weekend! My bump may not be very large, but I can name two other things though - my boobs. They are continuing to grow and of course I'm not complaining, but my swimsuit is still the swimsuit I bought last summer and wore on last year's float trip. I'm still very excited to go and hang out with everyone. Sun and water sound so nice!!! I bought a ginormous tent online and Chris, Lisa and myself booked our own site with electricity, so we can plug in an air conditioning unit for comfort. I was afraid if we slept in the late night area, I would not be able to fall asleep because of the late night partiers or worst yet, the snorers. So being away from that area, having an air conditioning unit running and being very very close to the bathrooms - it is my hope that I won't have any problems sleeping or being comfortable. Guess we'll see!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Baby and I are so Lucky
Thursday, August 6th, 2009 - Day 144
I could have never guessed how excited Chris would be about us being pregnant. I knew he wanted kids badly (we talked about kids on our first date), but nothing prepared me for how he is throughout this whole journey. He is absolutely amazing! I sometimes think he is more excited than me and I'm pretty darn excited. I love that Chris wants to bond with the baby and he calls the baby by the names we've been throwing around to try them out for size. He has talked about parenting when she is a newborn all the way to how he will be as a disciplinarian. He's gotten into the registering and every decision of this process. He's gone to every doctor's appointment and I love that he squeezes my hand when he sees the tears in my eyes in joy. Baby and I are extremely lucky and every day that passes I'm even more confident that he's going to be the best dad ever, and I was already confident before we got pregnant. Possibly, most men are this very same way, but I have heard stories of other husbands who called it 'it' until the baby could talk back OR that they are not into the pregnancy until the baby is actually born. From the moment I saw Chris's face when I said, we may be pregant while holding the home pregnancy test, I knew I was extremely lucky to have Chris as my husband and baby daddy!
I could have never guessed how excited Chris would be about us being pregnant. I knew he wanted kids badly (we talked about kids on our first date), but nothing prepared me for how he is throughout this whole journey. He is absolutely amazing! I sometimes think he is more excited than me and I'm pretty darn excited. I love that Chris wants to bond with the baby and he calls the baby by the names we've been throwing around to try them out for size. He has talked about parenting when she is a newborn all the way to how he will be as a disciplinarian. He's gotten into the registering and every decision of this process. He's gone to every doctor's appointment and I love that he squeezes my hand when he sees the tears in my eyes in joy. Baby and I are extremely lucky and every day that passes I'm even more confident that he's going to be the best dad ever, and I was already confident before we got pregnant. Possibly, most men are this very same way, but I have heard stories of other husbands who called it 'it' until the baby could talk back OR that they are not into the pregnancy until the baby is actually born. From the moment I saw Chris's face when I said, we may be pregant while holding the home pregnancy test, I knew I was extremely lucky to have Chris as my husband and baby daddy!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
My Routine for Kicks
Wednesday, August 5th, 2009 - Day 143
Now that I can feel her moving around and jabbing/kicking, I've come up with a routine every night before I go to bed. I get ready for bed, take my prenatal, then lay on my back and put my hands over my belly to feel her kick. Last night I could feel her very strongly. It is amazing how someone so small can kick or jab so hard. There was a strange feeling last night where it was like she put her foot on the lining of my belly, then dragged it a few inches to the left. It gave me the chills and made me think - oh boy, this is only going to be the beginning of tons of strange movements by my little girl. It is still such an amazing thing to feel her moving around. I just love that bonding experience and I know Chris does too. I do have a stethoscope to listen to strange and unknown sounds down there.
It isn't like I expect her to say 'hi', but just trying to listen can be an experience in itself. I know people always say that is the best part about being pregnant is feeling the movements, the kicks, the jabs...and boy were they right!
Now that I can feel her moving around and jabbing/kicking, I've come up with a routine every night before I go to bed. I get ready for bed, take my prenatal, then lay on my back and put my hands over my belly to feel her kick. Last night I could feel her very strongly. It is amazing how someone so small can kick or jab so hard. There was a strange feeling last night where it was like she put her foot on the lining of my belly, then dragged it a few inches to the left. It gave me the chills and made me think - oh boy, this is only going to be the beginning of tons of strange movements by my little girl. It is still such an amazing thing to feel her moving around. I just love that bonding experience and I know Chris does too. I do have a stethoscope to listen to strange and unknown sounds down there.
It isn't like I expect her to say 'hi', but just trying to listen can be an experience in itself. I know people always say that is the best part about being pregnant is feeling the movements, the kicks, the jabs...and boy were they right!
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Baby Showers are Set
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009 - Day 142
Well, it looks like the baby showers have been set. We have one for Chris's Mom's side of the family along with my dad's side of the family. We have one hosted by my friends. We have one for Chris's dad's side of the family. And one for boys and girls hosted by Chris's Aunt. I am really excited about all of them and look forward to them all.
It is always hard with Chris and I's families. Both are so large and all live in different states. So having two baby showers in St. Louis and two in Illinois will be the perfect blend. Of course, there will be many who are invited to more than one and they can choose whichever one, if any, they can attend. All I know is that this baby girl is going to be spoiled!!
Well, it looks like the baby showers have been set. We have one for Chris's Mom's side of the family along with my dad's side of the family. We have one hosted by my friends. We have one for Chris's dad's side of the family. And one for boys and girls hosted by Chris's Aunt. I am really excited about all of them and look forward to them all.
It is always hard with Chris and I's families. Both are so large and all live in different states. So having two baby showers in St. Louis and two in Illinois will be the perfect blend. Of course, there will be many who are invited to more than one and they can choose whichever one, if any, they can attend. All I know is that this baby girl is going to be spoiled!!
Monday, August 3, 2009
One More Modeling Gig
Monday, August 3rd, 2009 - Day 141
Most of you know I've been doing modeling for about 10 years now. My favorite gig is for Harley Davidson through RK Stratman. I've been modeling for RK Stratman for 7 years now and have been in over 30 catalogs over the years. Not only are the shoots fun, but they treat me like family and I love all of them.
They contacted me about their upcoming photoshoot in August and I had to break the news that I am pregnant and may not be able to model this time around, which would be the first issue I've missed in 7 years. But, luckily, for me and baby, they want me to come to this shoot and model. So my modeling days aren't quite over yet. Hopefully the pictures won't turn out bad with my baby bump. It isn't huge but I think it has grown a bit over the past day or so. It is crazy how that happens. So technically, this is baby's first modeling gig!
Most of you know I've been doing modeling for about 10 years now. My favorite gig is for Harley Davidson through RK Stratman. I've been modeling for RK Stratman for 7 years now and have been in over 30 catalogs over the years. Not only are the shoots fun, but they treat me like family and I love all of them.
They contacted me about their upcoming photoshoot in August and I had to break the news that I am pregnant and may not be able to model this time around, which would be the first issue I've missed in 7 years. But, luckily, for me and baby, they want me to come to this shoot and model. So my modeling days aren't quite over yet. Hopefully the pictures won't turn out bad with my baby bump. It isn't huge but I think it has grown a bit over the past day or so. It is crazy how that happens. So technically, this is baby's first modeling gig!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Daddy's First Blog
Sunday, August 2nd, 2009 - Day 140
Written by Chris Norris "Baby Daddy."
Angie came up with a great idea. She said that I can publish my own blogs so I decided to write one once a week. Tonight was a very special night for Daddy because I got to feel our baby girl move for the first time. Angie had said several times before that she could feel her moving, but when I put my hand on her belly I could not feel anything other than Angie's heartbeat. It was a different story tonight though. I could feel several sharp jabs / kicks and when I did my chin must have hit the floor because Angie was laughing at my expression. I was definitely not expecting to feel anything, especially since in Angie's previous post, you can see that her bump is only a couple of centimeters at best. It's really hard to believe that she is 20 weeks now. I am extremely excited and cannot wait to feel our daughter move around as she gets even bigger!
Written by Chris Norris "Baby Daddy."
Angie came up with a great idea. She said that I can publish my own blogs so I decided to write one once a week. Tonight was a very special night for Daddy because I got to feel our baby girl move for the first time. Angie had said several times before that she could feel her moving, but when I put my hand on her belly I could not feel anything other than Angie's heartbeat. It was a different story tonight though. I could feel several sharp jabs / kicks and when I did my chin must have hit the floor because Angie was laughing at my expression. I was definitely not expecting to feel anything, especially since in Angie's previous post, you can see that her bump is only a couple of centimeters at best. It's really hard to believe that she is 20 weeks now. I am extremely excited and cannot wait to feel our daughter move around as she gets even bigger!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
20 Weeks - Finally have a Bump
Saturday, August 1st, 2009 - Day 139
Today marks 20 weeks down and half way to go! Finally felt like taking a picture now that I have a little bump to show. Comparable to others at 20 weeks, it doesn't look like much, but I can sure feel her moving around. This week was a great milestone because not only did we find out what we are having, a little girl, but we also were able to tell our friends and family too. Everyone is super excited for us and now we can call the bump a she instead of it. Can't believe we are at the halfway point, but it feels good to know that all is going accordingly. It has been a great journey so far and I am so excited for the rest of the weeks to unfold.
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