Pantyliner for Pregnancy

Monday, November 30th, 2009 - Day 260

For those who have been pregnant before will be the ones who understand the power of pantyliners. I'll say that I've been one of the lucky ones who hasn't used pantyliners since high school and hasn't needed them throughout my pregnancy until these final few weeks. But with most pregnancies, especially near the end, there is a need for pantyliners bigtime. I was apprehensive about going to buy some because the vision in my mind of what pantyliners would look like were a very thick, uncomfortable spongelike pad that would not feel very natural.

To my surprise, I found the perfect pantyliner. Always Pantyliners Flexi. They come in packs of 50 and the box is super small which means they are thin. They are adhesive and mold to the shape of your underwear. I love them and don't even notice I am wearing one. So if you are looking for a good, thin pantyliner - try these.

2 Weeks & Counting

Sunday, November 29th, 2009 – Day 259

Written by Baby Daddy:

We're only 2 weeks away now and I'm so excited. After seeing those latest ultrasound pictures, I can't wait to meet our daughter. It's truly amazing how far technology has come that they can get a picture like that now.
I have the carseat already buckled up in my car and plan on stopping by the fire station sometime this week to have them inspect it. I don't remember where I heard it, but they say that roughly 80% of people do not have there carseat properly strapped in. I definitely do not want to be a part of that statistic. I'm also going to start packing my overnight bag for the hospital pretty soon just in case our baby decides to come a little early.

Lots of Great Food - mmmmm

Saturday, November 28th, 2009 – Day 258

Tia and I definitely took advantage this holiday season with all of the good food that was available. At every Thanksgiving gathering we went to, we had 2 helpings and boy was it all good. I love mashed potatoes, homemade noodles, turkey and dessert. My mom had pot roast and my favorite Thai noodles. It was all yummy and I definitely ate more as a pregnant girl than I would have otherwise. We definitely out ate daddy! Since we won't be having too much great family cooking at Christmas time since we will be at home this Christmas with our newborn, I was happy to take advantage while I could at Thanksgiving! mmmmm

Seriously, the Potty Breaks have Doubled

Friday, November 27th, 2009 – Day 257

I already went to the bathroom a zillion times a day and at least 5 or 6 times during the middle of the night, but now that she's dropped and has her head on my bladder, I go twice as much. It is crazy how often I go to the bathroom. Especially during the middle of the night, I go every 30 or 40 minutes. I just hope it doesn't get worse but I think it will as it gets closer. My appetite has gotten bigger now that she's moved down a bit. But according to the doctor, she is head down and getting in position. So knowing that things are progressing, having to go to the bathroom ALL the time is worth it. Chris laughs because he thinks I go through one roll of toilet paper every night and I don't think he's far off! Thank goodness for bulk purchases from Sams.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thursday, November 26th, 2009 – Day 256

Today is Tia's first unofficial Thanksgiving and we have a lot of family gatherings the next few days. Today we'll be hitting my mom's house for lunch, Chris's mom's house for dinner, tomorrow my dad's family for lunch and then Chris's dad's family for dinner. We went to dinner with Chris's Aung and Uncle last night and the other 3 - 4 Christimas gatherings we usually have aren't happening this year due to everyone's crazy schedules. But no matter what, Tia is going to get plenty of Turkey and mashed potatoes the next few days. Mmmmmm

I love my baby Tia!

Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 – Day 255

Today we had our ultrasound and it was so great. My mom and mother-n-law also joined and we were all overjoyed when we got to see our little girl. The first time the sonographer showed her face, I bursted out with tears of joy. She was beautiful and it just made me even more excited.



I think we all enjoyed the ultrasound very much. They made sure that she was in fact a little girl and measured her to be only 5 lbs and 4 oz, which is a super small baby.

After the ultrasound, they hooked me up to a machine that measured Tia's heartrate as well as contractions since she is measure on the small side. Her heartbeat was very steady and they were hoping to see some spikes in her heartrate which would be a good thing. For about 10 minutes, the heartbeats were pretty steady around the 138 to 142 range. The nurse comes in and gives me four mini candy bars to eat and once I ate them, Tia's heartrate started to spike up to the 158 to 162 range. When the nurse came back in about 10 minutes later, she was pleased with the results.

The doctor then came in and measured me to be 1 centimeter dialated and 50% thinned. She said that the baby's heartbeat was perfect and that I am having contractions (which I don't feel). So everything is going accordingley and even though she's measuring small, they still plan to take her a week early.

Which means 2 weeks from Sunday or Monday, we may meet our little girl! I can't wait.

She's a Girl, Right?

Tuesday, November 24th, 2009 – Day 254

So my mom said my belly looks like I'm carrying like I'm having a boy. The scary thing about my mom, is that she is usually dead on when predicting baby genders. So it scares me because EVERYTHING we have is pink and for a little girl. And we all know that sonographers aren't 100% all the time. We wouldn't be upset if they were wrong because we just want a healthy baby, BUT we'd definitely have to scramble to change the color schemes and return some of the girl items. A few other people have made comments that I look like I'm having a boy too. I am hoping we can confirm it tomorrow at our ultrasound.

It's So Hot in Here!

Monday, November 23rd, 2009 – Day 253

As I enter my final weeks of pregnancy, one thing has certainly gone up and that is my temperature level. I've still been wearing short sleeved shirts and still it never ceases to amaze me that I can get a hotflash or two while I'm working. I have a ton of projects that I'm trying to get finished and there are some times when I get a little hot but this week, I start sweating. Before pregnancy, I never sweat, but things are different now. My coworkers laugh at me because they can see the 'glistening' on my face and arms. It does make me laugh, but wfew - it feels so hot! So this is what hotflashes feels like.

Short Week Ahead

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009 – Day 252

I'm looking forward to a short week this week. I have Thanksgiving and the day after off, but took Wednesday off as well for doctor's appointments. I'm really looking forward to this week just seeing family, eating a lot of food and of course going to my doctor's appointment. Wednesday, I'll have my 36 week ultrasound and will be measured for the first time to see how baby is doing. I love short weeks!

Nesting in the Baby Room

Saturday, November 21st, 2009 – Day 251

I don't exactly think I'm nesting, per say, but I am excited that I get to fix up Tia's baby room. We got her crib all decorated last week, but this week I put all of her clothes in the dresser, put some clothes in the closet, and organized some other stuff. I had Chris help me pick out a shelf to match the bedroom set to put in the closet for the diapers, burpclothes, ointments, wipes, toys, etc. I just love how it is turning out. We went today and got some shelves for the wall to place picture frames and other cute trinkets. We also got a curtain rod for the valance. Oh it is looking so good! We do have a few more items to get but I love how the room is and how perfect it will be for our little bundle of joy!

Tia's Heartbeat

Friday, November 20th, 2009 – Day 250

I went to the doctor today and they gave me the Strep B test. I really am not sure exactly what it is all about but hopefully I won't have positive results. My doctor was in emergency surgery so I saw the nurse practitioner instead. I was supposed to have my cervix measured, but she said since I haven't had any contractions that we would wait until next week.

As one of my gifts from my work shower, Tia received a gift card to Build-a-Bear so I went to Build-a-Bear and bought a recorder. The recorder is for kids to record sayings and then put the recorder insider their bears. I didn't buy a bear or any accessories, I just bought the recorder and took it to my doctor's appointment today. When we heard Tia's heartbeat, I used the recorder to record about 10 seconds of her heartbeat. Now, once she's born - Chris and I can go to Build-a-Bear and buy a bear we think would be perfect for her and place the recorder inside. Tia can hear her own heartbeat anytime she wants. We've heard it is very soothing.

Plus, I get to hear her heartbeat without going to the doctor. It is so cute.

What a Great Idea - Is it a Boy or Girl?

Thursday, November 19th, 2009 – Day 249

One of my best friends from college and her husband are expecting their first child and they just hit their 22 week mark. They had their ultrasound to find out the sex of their baby and instead of them finding out there, they had their sonographer put the gender in an envelope and she sent it directly to a local bakery. The bakery will make a cake and the batter will be dyed blue for boy and pink for girl. My friends are having a party next week and at the party with some of the friends and family, they will cut into the cake and find out what they are having. Isn't that a great idea. I love it! I can't wait to find out what they are having...will Tia have another best girlfriend or a future boyfriend?

Teaching for Junior Achievement

Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 – Day 248

The company I work for does an annual Junior Achievement in a Day event where we teach an entire school for a day. Last year, I co-taught Kindergarten with my co-worker Karry. It was my first time and it was a bit overwhelming, BUT was so rewarding and a great experience. This year, we decided to teach 1st grade so we'd recognize many of the students that we had last year. Unfortunately, Karry was out sick and not able to teach, so I had to teach by myself for the majority of the day. At first, I was scared to death, but I just embraced it and decided that it is what it is and no sense in getting nervous. I think I did pretty well considering and my boss arrived about the 4th activity and she helped teach activity 5 as well. It was a really fun time and although my feet really hurt, it was another rewarding day. Many of the students were loving my belly and hugging/touching, naming, asking questions and loving Tia.

Tiredness is Back

Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 – Day 247

I knew that the 3rd trimester would bring on the tired stage again but I was pleasantly surprised that it really hadn't started until my final month. I'm definitley having to go to bed earlier and no matter how much sleep I get, I'm still very tired. It hasn't affected my work because work has been crazy busy lately. Not to mention getting ready for maternity leave, work will continue to be crazy until my last day. I hope it doesn't get worse though - I don't want to be sluggish when I need to have energy!

Linea Nigra

Monday, November 16th, 2009 – Day 246

Before I was pregnant, I had heard that since I'm darker skinned, I'd have the chance of developing a line down my belly. Well, I definitely have this and according to my doctor, it is called Linea Nigra. I have always had a really big birth mark just below my chest. The birthmark is huge, and I've always called it an upside down Christmas tree because that is what it looks like. To give you an idea of how big it is, I'd guestimate it as being the size of a piece of pie. The line I've developed during pregnancy runs from this birthmark all the way to my belly button then all the way down to my hoo-hah. It divides my belly perfectly in half. It is sort of neat.

Rams Game

Sunday, November 15th, 2009 – Day 245

Written by Baby Daddy:

Today Angie & I went to the Rams game compliments of Lisa (thanks Lisa!!). I wasn't expecting a good game at all, figuring it would be a blow-out by the Saints, but was pleasantly surprised. We still lost, but it came down to a final endzone pass that was incomplete. It was a great time other than the clowns sitting about 6-7 seats down from us. There were 2 couples and I literally think that Angie & I got up about 16 times to let them go by. The girls were very rude as they would walk up when my back was turned and instead of saying "excuse me" they would tap me on my shoulder and I certainly never heard a "thank you" when they walked by. Finally, on their last trip by us I didn't get up and barely moved my legs. I mumbled out loud to Angie when they were right in front of us about it being pretty ridiculous that they're having a pregnant woman get up that many times. In my mind, they were close enough to the middle that they could have gone out the other side at least a couple of times. Maybe I'm just being a grouchy old man, but I get very defensive when Angie & baby are with me.

FastTrack Class

Saturday, November 14th, 2009 – Day 244

Today, Chris and I attended a pregnancy class. It is called FastTrack and covers all the basics in 8 hours. We aren't the type to over educate ourselves and we didn't want to attend a class once a week for a month or anything like that. So we did the FastTrack class. It was very insightful and there were 9 other couples who attended. It is always nice to hear that others have the same concerns as us and we all have the same questions. There was one couple expecting identical twins - I thought that was neat. 5 of the 10 couples were all due on December 28th. I was happy we attended because it really answered some of the questions I had about the hospital and a few other things. The tour was perfect because now I know where to instruct family/friends to go if they decide to visit us in the hospital. I was disappointed we didn't get to see any babies in the nursery, they were all in the rooms with their mommies. But all in all, I would recommend it to any expecting couple delivering at St. Lukes.

Sitting on the Sidelines

Friday, November 13th, 2009 – Day 243

Since I'm the event planner for my company, I plan all of our teambuilding staff events. For today, I planned our staff to do Demolition Ball which is an annual tradition since I've been with Technology Partners. What it is - you are in a mini bumper car with a plastic ball scoop. Five people are on each team and the point is to get this woofle ball to a goal at each end of the cart. It is a blast, but you do get bumped around and nearly whiplash. It is so funny to see the personalities that come out of these competitions. We do a round robin tournament and one team wins.

I had to sit on the sidelines today and watch which was fine with me. Yes, there were moments where it was hard because I love playing, but seeing some of the people get jolted around - I was happy that I was watching and baby was safe.

The Crib is Beautiful

Thursday, November 12th, 2009 – Day 242

I could not hardly wait. I have had so much going on every night that I could not wait until I had a night free to work on the baby room. Our crib was finally up and I was obsessed with working on it first and foremost. We didn't have a mattress, so I went to Mattress Giant to get a crib mattress and they didn't sell any, hmmm. So I went to Babies-R-Us and got a Serta Perfect Sleeper crib mattress, got a mattress pad and was on my way home to get it started. Chris had a work dinner, so it was all me getting the crib started. I got home put the mattress in the crib and got our sheet/crib set out and decorated the crib. Chris got home and put together the mobile that goes with it and we put that on there too. Oh it looks so good. I love it! So excited!

The Waddle is Here

Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 – Day 241

Everyone still tells me how small I am and honestly, I do feel small compared to some of the 8+ month pregnant girls I know. I have been moving around easily and I haven't had too much trouble getting up. However, I've hit that stage where I'm waddling around - I feel like a duck. Getting out of bed or out of a car is tougher and I feel a lot of pressure in my lower abdomen. I still have 5 weeks to go - and I know it is only going to get harder.

Hands are Swelling

Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 – Day 240

Doctor always checks my ankles to see if my feet have swelled. Although, my shoe size is a size bigger, there really hasn't been much swelling in my feet. Now my hands are a different story. I've been noticing the past few days that it has been tough to get my wedding ring off at night. This morning I woke up and it wouldn't even go over the front of the knuckle. I had to dig out another ring to wear in place of my wedding ring. I read in a baby calendar that the third trimester is a good time to take your rings off due to swelling, but I really didn't think it would apply to me. Boy was I wrong.

Not only that, but I bowled last week and my thumb kept getting stuck in the thumb hole. It would pop off and loft real high before thudding on the lane. Everyone was worried I was going to go with the ball. I made it through the night but it wasn't pretty. Tonight, I got there early and took my ball to the pro shop to get the thumb hole drilled out. He drilled out the hole and I went and bowled a few balls, but my thumb kept getting stuck. So I went back in there again and he drilled it out even more. After throwing one ball, it was still getting stuck, so one last time he drilled it out and this time it was perfect. Next week may be a different story.

I Love Birthdays

Monday, November 9th, 2009 – Day 239

Most people who know me know that I love birthdays. Today is mine and it was the best one yet. My amazing husband got me flowers and a beautiful card, then he took me to one of my favorite restaurants - Kobe. We both stuffed ourselves - but it was worth it! He even helped baby Tia buy mommy a birthday card that was adorable.

I'm 32 and life is going great. I think the best present of all is Tia. I am so excited to meet her and birthdays for myself just really aren't the greatest thing now - I have a new purpose and the moment she is born will be the first birth-day of many birthdays for our baby girl.

Baby Room is Coming Together

Sunday, November 8th, 2009 – Day 238

Written by Baby Daddy:

Well, I'm finally putting the finishing touches on Tia's room. I washed all of the baseboards with a sponge and then repainted them all. I also washed the bedroom & closet doors and touched them up as well. I just finished repainting the closet and touching up the bedroom walls as we speak. Next I'm going to vacuum & then steam clean the carpet. Once that is done, we'll finally be able to start moving our little girl's stuff in. Angie and I are very excited!!

Cravings? That's My Excuse

Saturday, November 7th, 2009 – Day 237

Everyone is always asking me if I crave anything and the truth is that I really don't. I'm always hungry and I eat whatever is around, but I really don't 'have to have' any particular thing. I will say that this kid takes after daddy, because most of the things I'm in the mood for are white pasta, chickens, chocolate, cereal, and things that Chris loves. I love red pastas, steak, sweets like runts, and ever since I got pregnant I usually want what Chris is having.

I went into work today to work on our company computers. I took over all of our Technical Support duties a couple years back for my company and I do this in addition to my normal roles and I've been trying to get all of our 33 computers up to date before I go to maternity leave. But it has been hard because I can only do it when people are out for the day or away from their computers for a lengthy amount of time. So I decided to come in on a Saturday to get the remaining computers done and completed so I can work on my other tasks before I leave for a few months.

What is funny is that I don't crave anything BUT if it is in front of me, I tend to want it. I did a somewhat funny thing today while I was at work. I peaked in some of my coworkers drawers for candy. Of course only those who I knew usually have a lot of candy. I saw large bags of halloween candy and I did steal a bag of m&ms or two. I had to laugh at myself.

It will be interesting to see how I am with any future pregnancies - will I have cravings OR will they love foods I like? I guess time will tell.

All Good at the Doc

Friday, November 6th, 2009 – Day 236

Today started my weekly appointments with the doctor. I've gained 3 pounds from 2 weeks ago and am about 25 pounds so far. Her heartbeat sounded great, my blood pressure was good and my measurements were on par. He did say that she was a small baby which is just fine. He said that the birth will be easier on me and baby and those who have very large babies have a harder time, so look at it as a positive thing. Starting next week, they'll start measuring my cervix and get a 'closer' view of my progress. If all goes as planned, then she will be here before 12-20. My mom sister Sam and sister Nan will be happy because they are leaving for Thailand on 12-24. Plus I'm super excited to meet my little Tia. The final stretch is here - I'm nervous, scared, excited, apprehensive and overjoyed all at the same time.

Almost 6 Weeks Left

Thursday, November 5th, 2009 – Day 235

On Sunday, I will have 6 weeks until my due date. It just sounds crazy that 10 months is flying by. I have a doctors appointment tomorrow and every week after that. I can't believe I have to go every week, but I guess that is part of it. I hope things are going well and all is well with Tia. Last time, I was at about 25 pounds in weight gain, which I have heard is pretty normal.

I've been trying to get all of my to-dos done at work so I can start preparing for maternity leave, it just seems crazy how time is flying by. I can't wait until Tia is here, but I'll be on maternity leave for 12 weeks and I want to make sure I leave everything perfectly executable for all of my back-ups. I guess we'll see how it goes!!

I'm Pregnant - Not Dead

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009 – Day 234

Seriously, being pregnant has its pros and cons. One perk is that no one will let you pick up, carry, or move anything. I feel so hopeless sometimes. My boss and I went to our company's storage unit to get a box of messenger bags I needed for a Service Project we are doing and she had to carry them for me. I just wanted to take it from her, but every time I attempted, she wouldn't let me. Even for the Halloween Bus Party, my friends wouldn't let me do a thing. I had a coworker deliver a box of business cards to me and when I told her what employee they were for, she wanted to deliver them for me so I didn't have to lift anything - okay a small box of business cards can do no harm. I'm picking up my 14 pound bowling ball for pete's sake. Although, I have to admit, it is nice having the royal treatment. Even with Chris having his recent surgery, our friends are the same with with him as well. Only a few more weeks to go - I might as well milk it for what I can, right?

Bowling for Preggos

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 – Day 233

I haven't bowled in 4 weeks because Chris had ACL surgery and I've been taking him to and from work/Physical Therapy. Plus I wanted to be home in the evening to help him with anything he may need. Now that he is pretty much self sufficient enough to hobble around and get what he needs, I went back to bowling tonight. First of all, there is another girl pregnant in the league. She is the youngest and I'm the second youngest in the entire league. Although, her new sub and my new sub are both youngins too. She is having a girl as well and is 4 weeks ahead of me. So tonight our teams were playing each other. It was literally preggo vs preggo and we are both lead off bowlers for our teams. She is a lot bigger than I am and I was amazed that only being 2.5 weeks away, she was bowling. She made it a game and a half and had to leave because her back was hurting her. I did fine the first game - a bit rusty, but had a pretty good score. Then my hands were swelling and my thumb was too big - the ball kept sticking on my thumb and I almost went with the ball a few times. I wasn't doing that great score-wise, but I was just concerned about bowling with safetly. But the kicker was my thighs were burning. I felt like I was on the leg spreader machine at the gym all night doing about 100 sets. I couldn't believe how sore my uppper inside thighs were. I think being away from bowling for over a month, they were not stretched out. I have 5 more weeks of bowling - so hopefully I'll be able to make it!

Watch our for My Belly

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 – Day 232

So Halloween was a lot of fun, even though I wasn't able to drink. Chris was hobbling around and I was waddling around, so we were quite the pair. Chris doesn't drink much anyways and of course I wasn't able to drink, so we were more low key than usual. Being completely sober, I was well aware of when my belly was being touched, rubbed, bumped or fondled. Of course early on, several people touched my belly and were gentle, but as the night wore on and people started to drink more, the gentleness wasn't quite there. Of course, I don't mind if people touch my belly, even if I don't know them...but I would always hope that people would be gentle and not be too hard when they tug at my big ole belly. There were a couple girl friends of mine who were a bit intoxicated and they would poke, pinch, tug, and be a lot harder on my belly than I was comfortable with. I know they had good intentions, but there was a time or two when I was actually somewhat worried that they hurt my Tia girl. Finally, by the end, if I saw one of these girls coming, I'd cover my belly like I was hiding a football and say 'she's sleeping right now'. It did the trick, but wow - you'd think the first 100 times they got to fondle my belly would have been good enough. I knew who I could be comfortable around to touch my belly, even at the end of the night and those girls/girls were A-Okay to rub my Buddha belly. It is amazing how worried I get with Tia and she isn't even born yet. Even Chris was worried at times. I think he would have lunged at anyone who dare hurt or hit my belly by mistake. There was a fight or two that broke out and Chris was great in trying to guard Tia from harm. He's going to be such a great dad. A big worry wart, but I can appreciate that.

One Step at a Time

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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'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!

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!

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 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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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 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!

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.

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!

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 :)

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.

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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.