number 2 [week 37]

Symptoms: Still pregnant over here! My contractions continue to be next to nonexistent. Heartburn is still prevalent in the morning, except for when I substitute my regular fried egg muffin with cheese for a small bowl of Pumpkin Cheerios. I've noticed that my hands and feet have hardly been swollen at all throughout this entire pregnancy, which is such a difference from when I carried Simon. I don't think I'll have to take off my wedding ring this time around!

Cravings: My sweet tooth is still in full force.

Aversions: Honestly, nothing, I want to eat everything, even the stuff I can't have.

Missing: Comfortable sleep, which has just become a cruel joke at this point.

Mood: Up and down. I keep thinking that this baby is coming any day now, and yet here he still gestates. My positivity toward claiming that Boyfriend will come early has turned into negativity in believing that this kiddo is staying in utero until college.

Sleep: As mentioned above, it's not been so great. Restless leg syndrome is back, and foot cramps have returned two nights in a row after an approximate two-week hiatus. Everything is just so uncomfortable. Insomnia has been an issue, too.

Dreams: I'm daydreaming about going into labor everyday, that's for dang sure!

Movement: Wesley's frequency in movements are less, which is completely normal as he is following longer patterns of sleep and less waking time. When he is awake I'm rattled by either his super strong hiccups or his super strong, stretching kicks and rolls that leap in all different directions. He also sometimes feels sideways, which makes no sense, and it's expectantly uncomfortable. I'm reminding myself through the discomfort that all movement is good movement.

Best Moment: Jen and I got "prego pampered" last weekend. We met for a belly date for manicures and pedicures. It felt wonderful doing something special and relaxing for myself while hanging out with Jen. She is due with her fourth--a second girl--about a week before me, so we'll see whose baby makes an appearance first!

Baby Buys: I found curtains for Wesley's room, and now the nursery is officially complete. I can't stop walking in there to enjoy the sight! Photos to come soon.

Other News: My official 38-week prenatal appointment was on Tuesday. I wasn't super excited having to be there, but Eric and I were eager to find out what kind of progress I'd made in the last two weeks. My doctor's exam found that I am dilated 3 cm, effaced 70%, and carrying an approximate 7 lb. bundle of joy. She was surprised that my contractions have slowed down so much, but assured me that it won't be too much longer (because ya know, he HAS TO come out). Even though I've experienced so little swelling, my doctor suggested that I take off my toe ring to avoid the possibility of needing it cut off due to potential swelling in my feet during active labor. I'd forgotten all about my toe ring since it hasn't caused me any discomfort thus far, but with Eric's reminder I obediently took it off that night just to be safe.

Looking Forward To: Do I have to say it? MEETING WESLEY! I'm so ready for you, darling. Please, just come on out to meet us. 

number 2 [week 36]

Symptoms: This baby has gotten lower, and I've upped my waddling game. I know it's not possible, but sometimes it feels like he could fall straight out. Bonuses to my dropping belling include more ease in bending and moving, as well as the ability to walk faster when it doesn't feel like he's so deep down in my pelvis. My contractions have slowed waaaay down, and my energy level has been extremely high over the course of the last 5 days. Don't quite know what to think of that.

Cravings: I have been all over Simon's Halloween candy like white on rice (or brown, I should say, since I've switched due to its lower glycemic index).

Aversions: The junky candy, of course.

Missing: Non-maternity clothes, specifically jeans. By means of some kind of witchcraft, they all feel too big now.

Mood: I've been really hormonal lately, especially toward my poor husband. Maybe because I've been stressing to get everything packed and ready, and he's been joking and silly. I feel bad, but it's hard to control my whirlwind of emotions.

Sleep: Some nights I don't move an inch, others I wake with insomnia. I'd love to just sleep comfortably for an entire day before this baby comes.

Dreams: I had another sort-of break up dream, but it didn't follow its regular pattern. It was dumb regardless.

Movement: Wesley has dropped so much that now he kicks me in my elbow when my right arm is down at my side. He's also traveled inches away from my ribs, thank goodness. It's so strange feeling his movements so much lower in my belly!

Best Moment: Getting labor ready! We got both car seat bases installed in both cars (the infant seat went into my car), and I packed my hospital and diaper bags. I also pulled out all of Simon's newborn size and 0-3 month size clothing, receiving blankets, towels, and wash cloths and got them laundered and put away in Wesley's room along with all of his new items. My dad finished painting and installing the shelves and bedroom door of the nursery, and I began decorating and organizing. All that's left is to put up the curtain rod and the replacement trim piece over the top of the shelves. It's almost all finally together!

Baby Buys: Over the weekend I made some exchanges and got clothing in different sizes, purchased diapers, ordered the rest of the linens needed, and bought all of my postpartum care items for my hospital bag. Shopping is so fun, and I even got to get out of the house on my own!

Other News: I went to my 36-week prenatal appointment on Thursday, and my doctor performed a physical exam to see if this show has gotten started. Wesley was head down, and I was dilated 1 cm and effaced 50%! At 36 weeks with Simon I was also dilated 1 cm but didn't mention anything about effacement, so I'm taking this as a sign that maybe I'm a little further ahead with Wesley. I also had my Group B strep test done and already found out that I'm negative. And, to my astonishment, I learned that I've only gained 0.6 lbs. in the last 4 weeks. I was dumbfounded since I have been a lot less stressed out about carbs but still eating healthy, but my doctor wasn't concerned about Wesley gaining weight. Maybe I'm actually still losing weight with my new diet, and Wesley's taking it all?

Looking Forward To: Going into labor. Wait, did I just say that? I did. I'm ready for Wesley to be here! 36 weeks was as far as I got in documenting my pregnancy with Simon, as I went into labor at 38 weeks before I was able to write my week 37 post. We'll see what lies ahead from here!

number 2 [week 31]

Symptoms: Contractions have become a daily part of life. We got really close to calling Labor and Delivery, since my doctor advised at last month's appointment to call in if I had 6 in an hour. On one night I had a total of 15 contractions in a 2.5 hour period, varying in length and frequency. Eric helped me walk around the house and got me a small snack, which helped slow the Braxton Hicks until they eventually stopped. I knew I wasn't actually in preterm labor, but the idea of calling into Labor and Delivery really scared me in case there was really something wrong. Contractions have continued to occur, less consistently, in the days since.

Cravings: Ice cream has sounded heavenly.

Aversions: We ate a TON of zucchini over the course of the last week. I finally had to tell Eric that I needed a break!

Missing: The ability to break into a jog haha.

Mood: My mood has actually been really great. My emotions and attitude toward my new diet are better and more relaxed. My back is still pain-free. I'm feeling pretty good and focusing on positivity!

Sleep: We were out and about this weekend, so there were no opportunities for naps. Nights have been fine for the most part, with the exception of crampy legs and trips to the potty.

Dreams: Nothing horrific or emotional to report this week! I did have a really random dream, but I don't remember enough of the details to retell it.

Movement: I feel like I'm gestating a linebacker. 'Nuff said.

Best Moment: I attended what was technically my 32-week prenatal appointment (based on my first EDD of November 29th), and Simon joined Eric and me for the first time. Simon was excited to come and was looking forward to hearing Wesley's heartbeat. He asked lots of curious and intriguing questions, like where the doctor would sit, if I would lie back on the table, and "Why is there a sink in here?" Eric had to keep the boy entertained with magazines while my doctor and I ran through the boring stuff of reviewing my birth plan, and we almost struggled to redirect Simon's attention when it was time to use the doppler. I wish I had recorded Simon's expression when he heard Wesley's healthy beating heart; he smiled with wonder and was clearly enthralled with the fascinating sound of his brother's life. The moment was so touching and created an even deeper connection between my two boys.

Baby Buys: I'm gearing up to buy Wesley's Christmas stocking and artwork for his room. Trying to get organized!

Other News: With the change in my diet, I discovered during my doctor appointment that I've lost a pound since my last visit. I wasn't too surprised since I'd noticed my stomach looking tighter in a different way, and two pairs of pants seemed looser in the waist. My doctor wasn't concerned about the lost pound and reassured me that my weight gain has been on track thus far. She did, however, apologize for unintentionally scaring me with my blood sugar results after I explained how emotional the news and changing my diet has been. She complimented me for doing such a great job in taking care of my health and reassured me that eating carbs is fine--and healthy--in moderation as long as they're not simple carbs and are included with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. I realized that I honestly freaked myself out on my own, but I felt so much better after talking with my doctor. My appetite continues to still be kind of small, but I am no longer completely afraid of what to eat.

Looking Forward To: Celebrating the Fall festivities of October!

number 2 [week 29]

Symptoms: This week has been a bad combination of charlie horses and foot cramps and what apparently is called restless leg syndrome (RLS). I've been waking during the night with horribly achy legs, looking for comfort in rolling onto my opposite side and/or changing my leg position. One particularly bad charlie horse woke me in near-screaming pain, frightening poor Eric awake as well. According to the information in the link, iron deficiency may be a cause for RLS. I just started taking iron supplements twice a week since my blood count from my last prenatal appointment was low, so we'll see if those help with both issues over time.

Cravings: The Olive Garden. When doesn't that sound good?

Aversions: I'm trying to eat more protein in the morning, and of course eggs come to mind. And of course, fully cooked eggs are still kind of blah.

Missing: Those dang runny eggs. Eric makes the best fried egg sandwiches! Wah!

Mood: I've been quite emotionally hormonal lately. The water works have been present, as has the 'tude. Oops.

Sleep: Lots of napping occurred over the weekend. I had a week of 2-hour trainings after school Monday through Thursday, which left me feeling super tired on some days. Luckily I had that Friday off and enjoyed a 3-day weekend complete with 3 days of naps. I would've loved to sleep in on one of those days, but that just wasn't in the cards.

Dreams: The break-up dream returned again with an ugly vengeance, visiting this week 2-3 times. The last dream was the absolute worst, causing me to wake up at 4:00 am and leaving me awake for what felt like almost an hour. It was so emotional that I laid in bed and cried, a reaction I've never had before. These nightmares can really just go away and jump off a cliff any time now. I'm so done with them.

Movement: I've been routinely tracking Wesley's kicks and filling out my Kick Count Card as instructed by my doctor. Baby Boy is doing great and making his 10 movements in well under 10 minutes most nights. His rolls and jabs are getting stronger and stronger, making my belly look like a science experiment. Simon and I played with Wesley before bedtime one night, poking at the hard spots where Wesley was parked so that Simon could feel his brother nudge back in response. Those sweet moments make me look forward to the days our boys will spend playing (and no doubt roughhousing) together as best friends.

Best Moment: The week felt like it dragged with extra hours at work, so nothing of noticeable delight really happened. I think I was just super happy to have Eric home over the weekend. I was absolutely fine with him being gone in Tahoe the weekend before and had a lot of fun spending time with family, but for some reason I just missed him so much. Maybe it was just that emotionally hormonal side that I've been experiencing or my subconscious feeling partially insecure with him being so far away while being so pregnant. Whatever the reason, I'm relaxed in knowing that we won't be spending any more nights apart again before Wesley comes--and for a long time after, too. It was comforting having Eric home, and he happily took excellent care of Simon and me.

Baby Buys: Our extra car seat base for daycare came in the mail from my dear friend, Kerry! She wasn't able to make it to my baby shower, but kindly sent a gift from my registry. This will be greatly needed when I return to work, so I appreciate Kerry's sweet gesture so much.

Other News: I've mentioned my low blood count and eating more protein for a reason. Along with my CBC results, my glucose test numbers came back and showed my blood sugar tolerance higher than the normal range. My doctor recommended me for the 3-hour glucose screening test, which required fasting for 8-10 hours and a total of 4 blood draws, one upon arriving at the lab and 3 at the 1-hour, 2-hour, and 3-hour marks after drinking the delicious glucose beverage. My results all came back within the normal range, but my numbers after ingesting the drink were at the high end of 'normal.' As a precaution, my doctor suggested I follow a gestational diabetes diet to help my body in keeping my blood sugar steady. It sucks to be limiting delicious carbohydrates in my diet, but it's better than having to poke my finger to check my blood sugar several times a day. It's been most surprising to me because my sugar levels were completely normal with Simon, but of course every pregnancy is different.

Looking Forward To: Just thinking about meeting my dear Wesley. I catch myself rubbing my belly where he makes his bigger movements, imagining that I'm rubbing his back while holding him in my arms. I know I've still got a considerable time left to wait, but this mommy is growing anxiously excited.

number 2 [week 28]

Hello 3rd trimester! 

I can't believe we've already made it this far!

Symptoms: Tired? Check. Back aches? Check. Reflux? Check. Anxious to meet this boy? Check!

Cravings: Carbs. I'm convinced it's because I'm trying to not eat them. 

Aversions: I wish it were carbs. 

Missing: Energy. Not feeling tired so easily. Moscato. 

Mood: Hanging in there. This past week just flew by, but it was a good one. I really have nothing to complain about and am thankful for life.

Sleep: I grabbed my prego pillow and what do you know--I'm sleeping heavier. I forgot how cozy it was and still have no idea why I stopped using it for a few weeks. Nothing I do makes sense.

Dreams: I dreamed that I was walking around with Wesley, pushing him in a carriage-like stroller. He was wrapped in a swaddling blanket and I couldn't see his face. As I walked, people stopped at my stroller and commented on how adorable Wesley was and that he was the cutest baby they'd ever seen. After several comments I finally reached down to adjust the blanket and see his face. He looked exactly like my dad, but without a beard; and I mean as if my dad shaved off all of his facial hair today. My newborn baby resembled his 59-year-old, bald-faced grandfather. Weird to say the least.

Movement: While catching up on the new season of Dancing with the Stars, Mr. Wesley was shaking his groove thang during the entire 90-minute episode. It was hysterical. Maybe I'll have a little dancer on my hands?

Best Moment: Remember last week when I alluded to knowing a secret? There was a big one that I was keeping: Eric's Aunt Sam flew in to town last Thursday to surprise Ashley for her birthday. The surprise was unveiled at Ashley's birthday dinner, which she was unaware that we were attending. The surprise was a huge hit, and we enjoyed a great night at Red Lobster. Eric was gone at Levi's bachelor party that Friday and Saturday, and Simon and I enjoyed more family dinners, shopping, and having Ashley and Sam spend the night at our house. Eric returned home around lunchtime on Sunday and was able to visit more with Sam and made delicious burgers for dinner. We had a lovely time and are looking forward to her next trip out here for Christmas!

Baby Buys: Sam wanted to get me a baby shower gift, so we went to Buy Buy Baby and she generously bought us our new changing pad for Wesley's room. She also insisted on getting a present for Simon and let him pick out an Octonauts toy at Babies"R"Us. He was over the moon.

Other News: Eric and I went to my 28-week prenatal appointment where I took my routine glucose test and received the whooping cough booster and RhoGAM shot. My doctor also gave me the Kick Count Card to start and a birth plan worksheet to begin thinking about. This trimester marks the final round of this pregnancy journey, and I cannot believe that we are already to this point.

Looking Forward To: Moments of relaxation, wherever I can find them!

walking after dinner with Aunt Sami & Auntie

number 2 [week 24]

Symptoms: Still having lower back and hamstring pain after periods of sitting. Both are becoming a part of temporary daily life. I think my hands have swelled a little bit since my wedding rings are still fitting tighter at times. At this point in my pregnancy with Simon I had removed my toe ring, but I don't think I'm quite there yet this time around.

Cravings: CHOCOLATE!

Aversions: Still not put off by anything. *Yes!*

Missing: I feel like it's just going to be deli meat again and again and again for the next 16ish weeks.

Mood: Really actually feeling fantastic!

Sleep: I got my first middle-of-the-night charlie horses this week, wooot! (Not.) I also had some cramps in my toes the other night before bed. When I have to roll over at night I end up completely waking so I can readjust my body pillow.

Dreams: There hasn't been anything exciting enough for me to remember when I wake up. I have, however, completely daydreamed about salami. No joke.

Movement: Wesley is still a busy little bee. He might be starting to get used to our back-to-school schedule, as I'm feeling him a little earlier in the mornings now.

Best Moment: Thanks to our wonderful friend, Renee, Simon now has his "big brother" bed! There is officially no longer a baby in the house, especially with no crib currently in use! For now, the crib is broken down and hanging out in the living room so it's out of the way for carpet measuring in the nursery. Simon's new bedding and sheets look great on his new-to-him twin size bed, although I still need to find a mattress cover and bed skirt. His room just became way more grown up, and I cannot believe how big my first baby is becoming right before my eyes.

Pregnancy Purchases: Nothing exciting this week, except for a refill on my prenatal vitamins. Yippee.

Other News: I had my 24-week prenatal appointment. My doctor and I discussed birth control options for after Wesley is born and my options and different choices for my childbirth experience this time around. I don't remember if I mentioned that Eric and I signed up for the 'Preparing for Childbirth' class offered by Kaiser. I'm looking forward to learning some breathing and relaxation techniques to ease labor and delivery and my different options for pain management. I would like to deliver naturally this time without an epidural and as little medical intervention as possible, and I really want to have more control over this birthing experience.

Looking Forward To: Sharing about this summer's camping trip! Our last one as a family of three!

first night in his "big brother" bed!

number 2 [week 20]

Symptoms: Halfway mark, holla! I've been feeling pretty good, aside from constant back pain and being tired. I get uncomfortable easy and can feel worn out after simple tasks (like doing the dishes. (Lame, but also ha!)

Cravings: In-N-Out and Del Taco, the latter I don't even like. For some reason, those commercials for The Del Taco make me salivate. Regardless, I've eaten neither.

Aversions: Water is sometimes super delicious, and other times it's yuck.

Missing: Drinking... not water!

Mood: It's been a great and exciting week!

Sleep: There have been a few days that I've skipped my afternoon nap, and I have no idea how I've been able to function during those evenings. Maybe because I'm off work? Mornings are tough, and I sometimes have a hard time getting out of bed.

Dreams: Dang it, I had a super comical/strange dream last night that I cannot remember. I thought about it so much after waking up that I was sure I wouldn't forget. 

Movement: Number 2 has been so incredibly active lately! Movement happens most often while I eat and when I lie down. The little bean has developed some strength and finally made my stomach bounce this week! I absolutely love feeling the tickles, and Eric thinks that he finally felt a little kick.

Best Moment: We had my 20-week sonogram appointment for Baby's anatomy scan and also found out the gender: it's another boy! While I wasn't completely surprised, I was definitely in a small state of shock after learning that Eric and I are going to have another son. Our new boy looked adorable and measured 11 ounces, adjusting his estimated due date one day ahead to November 30th. We invited our dads and Ashley over for dinner and shared the news by telling Simon in front of them. Poor Monkey had been hoping for a sister so badly, and our hearts completely sank to see his disappointment when informing him that we're instead having a brother. He warmed up to the idea later in the evening when he saw the ultrasound photos on my computer and asked to look at them again. We decided that he could choose his favorite photo and we'd print his own copy to keep in his room. That idea excited him immensely, and ever since Simon has happy greeted "Little Brother" in my tummy and come up with all kinds of activities that they will do together as brothers and best friends. I never imagined I'd be a 'Boy Mom,' but this is the blessing that life has given me. Eric and I would still very much like to have a daughter, so we're not ruling out the possibility of having more children just yet.

Baby Buys: Now that we know that Number 2 is a boy, we bought paint for his nursery! The theme will be penguins (to match my 'Baby Birds' idea, Simon was owls), and the paint color we purchased is called Smoked Turquoise. The color scheme of the room will be a combination of turquoise, light blue, grey, black, white, and brown (because of the furniture--crib and glider). I'm excited to get started on his room, after we finish clearing it out of course!

Other News: I also had my 20-week prenatal appointment. My doctor gave me a copy of the sonogram report, which was "as perfect as perfect can be." Even though I'd had to roll over a lot trying to get Number 2 to change positions for clear views of his heart, all of the movement was successful and the doctors were satisfied with all of the photos. We scheduled my September appointment, and I was in and out in a jiffy. Eric had to miss this visit again due to work, but it wasn't a big deal as it was quick and easy. My little boy's heartbeat still sounded great, and I'm continuing to focus on exercise and good nutrition.

Looking Forward To: My maternity photos have been scheduled for August 7th! I've got to find something to wear!

number 2 [week 16]

Symptoms: The congestion has gotten a little better since last week. The indigestion and acid reflux have been a bit worse. Unlike my pregnancy with Simon, I've had horrible prego acne! Simon gave me flawless skin regardless of how often I washed my face. Number 2, however, is making me look worse than any of my pubescent years. This is definitely a different kid! 

Cravings: Cottage cheese. My coworker, Kristen, brought some into work and it's all I can think about.

Aversions: I'm so over scrambled eggs.

Missing: Back on longing for my runny eggs!

Mood: Tired, but happily feeling more and more pregnant by the day!

Sleep: Summer school started this week, so I'm working shorter days and picking up Simon from daycare right after he eats lunch. He goes down for a nap when we get home and I'm trying to get one in for myself as well. I've noticed that no-nap days leave me exhausted in the evenings and asleep by 8:30.

Dreams: Dang it! I had a good dream to share that I cannot remember now.

Clothing: Very comfortable in my summer maternity clothing. I'm still striking out with finding any maternity sleepwear, so the hunt continues. 

Best Moment: My 16-week prenatal appointment was on Tuesday. Eric wasn't able to leave work so I went on my own. It wasn't entirely eventful, but I briefly heard the baby's heartbeat and it was strong and immediate. My doctor and I had a lovely chat, my next two prenatal appointments were scheduled, and I went to the lab for my second trimester screening blood draw. A good visit and healthy progress make me a happy mama.

Pregnancy Purchases: I scored another Facebook find; 7 maternity dresses and 2 maternity tank tops for $30! I think I'm officially set for summer.

Other News: Eric and I finally told Simon about Number 2! I wanted to wait until after this week's doctor appointment to make sure everything was still progressing safely, so we shared the news with him that evening. It's so crazy imagining that my first baby is going to become someone's big brother. It feels great that everyone finally knows our news!

Looking Forward To: The gender reveal countdown is officially on... July 13th come on and get here!

comparing pregnancies at 16 weeks!

number 2 [week 11 & 12]

Symptoms: I got super sick with a cough on top of the worst nausea ever, so weeks 11 and 12 are combined into one post with my photo from last week (which I was barely able to muster up the energy for, hence my miserable expression). I've felt absolutely horrible and even missed work, so I'm cutting myself some slack on this one.

Cravings: Iced tea. I cannot find decaffeinated iced tea (by the bottle or can) anywhere! Eric thoughtfully bought some flavored herbal tea bags for me so I can make my own.

Aversions: Sweet baby peppers! I don't know what happened; we used to be good, then all of a sudden we weren't.

Missing: My old self. Aagghh!

Mood: Pretty pathetic and tired and trying my hardest not to accept any pity.

Sleep: I've been doing a lot of it, as much as I can. It sucks feeling like you could always get more.

Dreams: I'm having a harder time remembering them lately. I dreamed something really funny or odd recently, but I didn't write it down so it's gone.

Clothing: Leaning toward the looser fitting selections as best I can. I feel like I'm showing no matter what I wear.

Best Moment: We had our second prenatal appointment at 11 weeks! Unfortunately, I didn't have an ultrasound, but we did get to hear Baby's heartbeat via a fetal doppler. My doctor performed an exam, I met with the prenatal clerk to fill out paperwork regarding prenatal testing, and I went to the lab for a glucose test and routine blood draw. My lab results have all come back normal, and I'll be returning for my next appointment at 16 weeks.

Pregnancy Purchases: I scored a big bin full of maternity clothes on Facebook for only $25! They're mostly cold weather items, which will come in handy toward the end of my pregnancy and possibly early postpartum. Not everything is my size, so I plan to resell the items that don't work for me. Considering that the entire collection looks to have originally cost hundreds of dollars, I think I got a pretty good deal on the pieces I'm keeping.

Other News: The weekend after my birthday, Eric took Simon and me up to Apple Hill to visit our favorite year-round orchard, Boa Vista Orchards. We also found a new year-round orchard, Mill View Ranch, that has the most adorable play town for kids. This last weekend was Jenny's bachelorette party and I played DD for the evening. Dinner and dancing made for a really fun girls' night.

Looking Forward To: Hopefully feeling better soon, the school year winding down, and more sleep!

 little monkey

us at Apple Hill

Jenny's bachelorette party

number 2 [week 7]

Symptoms: Nausea, nausea, nausea. I've been sick as a dog. Dry heaving, dizziness, barfing (although thankfully not too much), and lots of time spent in bed. I even went home early from work one day because I just couldn't hack it.

Cravings: Chinese food. I decided to be good and get orange chicken from Trader Joe's, even though my heart was really set on Rose Garden.

Aversions: Last week's highly-craved tortilla chips are now a no-go. I also cannot look at another saltine cracker.

Missing: Sushi. I may have been drooling over it at Trader Joe's.

Mood: Pretty miserable, to say the least. It's hard for me to remember if I was constantly this sick with Simon. I'm happy in the brief moments when I feel like myself. And of course, I'm thankful for this little miracle that's torturing me from the inside.

Sleep: I've been impressed that it's been mostly uninterrupted. I think I've woken to go to the bathroom only once or twice.

Dreams: The night before my friend Molly's birthday, I dreamed that she had a new apartment that was really a wine cellar. She was hosting a get-together and her new apartment was literally crawling with cats. For some strange reason she was really excited about the cats; like, more excited about the cats than all the wine. It's funny because Molly is really more of a dog person.

Clothing: Everything's fitting better this week, especially because I've not been bloated like I was last week. I do, however, feel really fat and pudgy by the end of the day no matter what I eat, and then I wake up the next morning looking normal again. I also keep seeing maternity shorts for sale on the Facebook swap pages, but I have no idea what size I am since I've never been big-pregnant during the summer. The weather spiked to an unnatural 90 degrees today, so I'm already terrified of what's to come.

Best Moment: Seeing our little peanut at my first prenatal appointment. It sure is small, measuring less than a centimeter, but it's really in there and its heart is beating. I was so nervous going into the appointment, but everything looked great. Fingers crossed for another great view at my next appointment at 11 weeks!

Pregnancy Purchases: I tried some ginger candy to help combat my constant nausea. The problem is, I don't actually like ginger. I popped a piece while driving and I feel horrible to admit that that piece of candy went flying out my car window just seconds after entering my mouth. I guess it was either littering from a moving vehicle or barfing inside of one.

Other News: I also had a dentist appointment the day after my prenatal appointment; my first dental visit in over 8 years. It went well and I was pleased to learn that my teeth are not in as bad of condition as I had feared. My dentist decided to hold off on x-rays until after I have the baby, and we scheduled a teeth cleaning for June. Oral health is important for a healthy pregnancy!

Looking Forward To: A week of less nausea? (Yeah right.) But maybe some more energy so I can spend more waking time with my boy.

pregnancy [week 36]

Does my facial expression in this photo show how miserable I was feeling?  Because I was.  Trying to smile through contractions isn't the easiest thing, nor is standing or walking.  Unfortunately (yes, I said unfortunately!), the contractions I'm experiencing are still only practice rather than labor so I really haven't felt anything real just yet.  These moments of discomfort are only mild inconveniences for the time being...

I actually felt pretty great the majority of the week.  My energy level was high, like through-the-roof high, and I started getting excited that maybe it was an indicator of news (or baby) to come.  Well, he's still on the inside and my energy eventually weaned, but it was amazing while it lasted.  I almost felt like I was back in the 6th month; feeling big, but still able to function relatively normally.  While all good things must come to an end and I am a little bummed that the end of the week had to end with the return of my sluggishness, I hope that since Simon has yet to make his appearance that I am in for at least maybe one more spurt of energy before labor comes!

When Eric and I went to my 36-week prenatal appointment we found out that all these Braxton Hicks got me dilated to 1 cm!  I was shocked when my doctor checked me as I didn't think any action had started down there yet.  Sure, 1 cm is teeny tiny, but it's the very beginning of the eventual labor process!  I also had my Group B streptococcus test done and got my Tdap booster for whooping cough (Eric got his done the day before my appointment).  All my regular vitals were checked as usual and my doctor assured me that the swelling in my hands and feet (I had horrible cankles that day!) and the 2 pound/week weight gain I've experienced since my last visit are both normal and are signs that my body is preparing for what's to come next.  I'm good to go to continue working until I go into labor, and I visited my HR representative and picked up my disability forms to be filled out by both me and Kaiser.  I'm also trying to wrap up my to-do list and clean up my work space in case I suddenly stop coming in to work (i.e., labor comes instead).  I want to leave work gracefully if it's within my control!

We are finally making some headway with the nursery.  First, we found a glider on Craigslist for only $20!  The wood needs some light polishing and I'd like to reupholster the cushions due to some stains and rips, but they are otherwise still in great condition and are super comfortable.  Next, we found a 4-drawer dresser, also on Craigslist, for $50.  It also needs a small bit of polishing but is otherwise in great shape.  It's definitely a children's dresser based on the design and both it and the glider almost match the shade of Simon's crib.  Then, I went a little crazy at Cost Plus grabbing some owl items that I've had my eye on, like this accent lamp, these drawer knobs, and a few other goodies.  A few more shopping trips to various stores are required, but the room will be finished before long.  I'm so excited for the final product!

At 36 weeks, baby boy is the size of a honeydew... yum!  He is still hovering around the 17.2 to 18.7 inch and 4.2 to 5.8 pound range.  My doctor didn't mention how big she thinks he might be at my appointment and I unfortunately forgot to ask.  He surely is continuing to pack on that cute baby fat and may even already have long fingernails!  To my surprise and complete relief and excitement, Simon began dropping the day after my prenatal visit, which oh my goodness let me tell you... has felt amazing!  No more crowding in my lungs, no more heartburn, way easier breathing, and less rib-kicking!  While the tradeoff is a different feeling in walking with him being so much lower in my pelvis and a more frequent urge to go potty, the empty space in my upper torso is fantastic.  I even feel like I have better range of motion and can bend a little easier!  The frosting on the cake, though, is really the fact that this too is a sign that we are nearing the end of this great pregnancy adventure and getting closer to the start of our journey into parenthood.  There's no telling exactly when Simon will decide to grace us with his presence, but we're not too far off now!   

pregnancy [week 32]

We rang in the new year of 2013 a few days into my 32nd week of pregnancy.  It was just another one of several get-togethers we've attended since I've been pregnant where I wasn't able to partake in a celebratory toast or shot or enjoy a taste of fabulous wine or other spirits, but I've gotten pretty used to it.  Sure, you may catch me jealously sniffing at the fruity aroma of Eric's blueberry beer, but I've chosen to 100% abstain from alcohol consumption while pregnant.  And as I enter my 8th month, I can proudly say that I have stayed true to my vow since learning of my pregnancy.  It truly hasn't been a difficult thing to give up, and while a sip here or there probably wouldn't harm Simon, I'd rather not even take the chance.  I'd prefer to just bring a can of Sprite along with me to a party and pig-out on all the tasty treats!

our first family photo of 2013!

I had this month's prenatal appointment rescheduled for this week to precede my trip with Dad to New Mexico for my grandpa's funeral.  My doctor said my weight gain and blood pressure are perfect, was impressed with my kick count card results and Simon's level of activity, and even complimented me for taking the stairs rather than the elevator.  We reviewed my birth plan and the importance of being aware of what sorts of things will be happening during labor, delivery, and postpartum, and why certain decisions should be made or considered in advance.  I understand that things may not go exactly as planned on D-day, and I am ready to be flexible and change course if needed to keep my son's health and safety a top priority.  I also addressed the issue of travel to New Mexico and my doctor assured me that it is safe to travel by plane up until the time you deliver your baby.  Most restrictions come from the airlines themselves rather than from practitioners, because no airline wants a woman going into labor and delivering a baby on board.  My doctor understood my concerns but gave me the green light to go, even sharing her opinion that I should fly rather than drive.

Had I actually posted this blog on time 2 nights ago (yeah right lol), you would be reading that my dad and I decided to stick with driving to New Mexico due to the expensive prices of airfare and the reduced expense of not needing to rent a car.  But because I am lazy, you are instead going to learn that just hours ago we changed plans and have decided to fly.  After checking out my car to make sure it was in sufficient condition to make the trip, my dad found some things that were in need of replacing and quickly began running out of time to finish everything that needs to be done before we leave.  He felt it best to just book airfare and finish up my car when we return and I agreed.  Eric isn't completely comfortable with me flying, but he wants me to go.  I understand his nerves of me traveling with the baby; honestly, I'm always nervous when traveling--pregnant or not.  But we plan to be as safe as possible, and flying will be a lot less stressful on my body.  With my doctor's clearance, I'm okay with it.  And I found out that I get 5 days of bereavement leave for an out-of-state funeral, which means I'll have plenty of rest and recovery time.  I feel very strongly about going, and I'm very glad that I get to.

Baby is the size of a squash at 32 weeks (and because The Bump did not specify exactly what kind of squash, I decided to be lazy and not buy one).  It's typical for babies to begin positioning themselves head-down at this point, and by my explanation of where I'm always feeling Simon's powerful hiccups my doctor agrees that he is most-likely already in the chest-down position, beginning to prepare for his exit route in the coming weeks.  It would also make sense for him to be feet up considering the beating my ribcage has been taking recently.  He's kicked me so hard, I'm thinking that I actually have bruised ribs!  It's painful to cough or sneeze, lay down or sit up, or even simply breathe.  Eric said he didn't think that the boy is big enough to bruise me, but he has no idea what I'm feeling and how much I'm hurting.  Stiffness in my back and burning in my throat from heartburn and indigestion are still frequent, and my sleep is starting to become interrupted due to discomfort.  But I remind myself as we enter this year of our son's birth that there will be many sleepless nights ahead before we know it.  And because these sleepless nights will include holding my baby boy in my arms, I am sure that somewhere through the exhaustion and weariness I'll find a reason to smile.    

pregnancy [week 28]

Holy 28 weeks/7th month/3rd trimester!  I have entered the beginning of the homestretch of my pregnancy!  Where has the time gone?  As much as it seems like I've been pregnant forever, I can't believe I'm already so far past the halfway mark.  I feel enormously pregnant; I catch myself in the mirror or in the reflection of a window and I'm like, WHOA I'M HUGE!  The belly view from the side is so much different from the belly view from above (and yes, I can still see my toes, but I have to lean forward just a bit).

The photo above is from our 5th Annual Holiday Cocktail Party.  Back in 2008, we decided with our friends that it would be fun to pretend to be fancy one evening and get dressed up to drink and party at our house (I use the word "pretend" because we were in our early 20s and not quite as capable of being truly fancy at the time haha).  I planned the very first cocktail party for the first Saturday of December as a fun way to kickoff the holiday season and figured the first weekend of the month wouldn't conflict with too many company Christmas parties.  Five years later, the tradition has stuck and we have been able to include more and more of our friends each year.  It excites me to know that everyone still looks forward to our annual shindig and enjoys dressing up according to my 'fancy' attire request.  I didn't let being pregnant hold me back from entertaining this year, but I did have to sit out from participating in my famous champagne pong tournament for the first time ever.  It was still a great evening with great food and great friends, and I think Simon enjoyed himself in my tummy!

We had my 28-week prenatal appointment on Tuesday and everything is still progressing normally and healthy.  I took care of my glucose test and RhoGAM shot and got all of my other regular vitals checked.  The nurse commented that my blood pressure was perfect, which set my mind at ease considering all the stress I've been experiencing at work over the last few weeks.  My nurse practitioner assured me that high blood pressure would only be a sign of a major complication with my pregnancy, and stress alone wouldn't cause it to spike (at least to levels that we would be concerned about).  I'm up a total of 19 lbs. and according to this week's video from The Bump, I am supposed to gain another 11 lbs. this trimester.  If I stay on track, that will put me right at my 30 lb. goal!  I also received my Kick Count Card at my appointment so I can record Simon's movement and be aware of anything abnormal.  So far, he has been doing great and is as active as ever!  We booked the rest of our appointments through my 40th week, which is just another reminder of how close we are to reaching the end of my pregnancy and the beginning of our son's life outside the womb.  It's exciting and scary all at the same time!

Our boy is about the size of an eggplant at 28 weeks.  He's still getting the hiccups often and I feel his pounding movements more and more throughout the day.  I'm beginning to wonder if Simon will be born with a full head of hair considering how much heartburn and indigestion I've been having lately.  The burning in my throat is no fun, especially when I'm resting or trying to fall asleep.  Once I am sleep, I'm completely out and haven't been woken by any discomforts yet, thank goodness!  I'm tired earlier and earlier in the evenings, and even get worn out at work pretty easily if I'm running around a lot.  It's no joke that the bigger baby gets, the more room he uses and the less your internal organs have, squishing everything together and making breathing a little tougher.  All aches and pains considered, it's definitely all worth it for the health and safety of my baby boy.  And because I love him so much, I've already begun compiling my list of pains I've experienced and sacrifices I've had to make in preparation for me to throw in his face when he's being a rascal of a teenager.  I can see Simon now, rolling his eyes every time I start off a rant with, "I carried you in my belly for 9 long months...!"

pregnancy [week 24]

I dropped the ball and didn't get a belly picture for 24 weeks.  Work was incredibly insane and stressful, and the recent time change and shift in weather hasn't helped either.  But, I'm not beating myself up about it.  I'm still struggling to post my weekly updates on time, but I figure that it's better to stay consistent with my blog posts than my bump pictures if it has to be one or the other.  I'm trying my best over here!

Since I have no photo to show my current size, I'll try to describe it for you.  I'm at an official 15 lb. weight gain, which my doctor confirmed is on track at my 24-week prenatal appointment.  As my belly rounds out, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to do previously simple things, such as putting on socks, getting up from the couch, and shaving my legs.  My toenails, which have been horribly neglected for the last month, were in desperate need of a trimming but I just wasn't confident that I'd be able to maneuver myself into the proper position to reach each of my toes with the clippers.  So, my darling and wonderful husband was kind enough to cut them for me, being very delicate with each toe and giving me much relief after trimming back my large toenails that were starting to dig into my skin.  No, I did not proposition him for a full pedicure complete with nail polish, but I may be requesting his help in that department again soon.

Back to my prenatal appointment: it was a routine exam covering all the regular basics.  Blood pressure is fine, Simon's heartbeat is still strong, and my pregnancy continues to progress normally without complications.  My doctor measured my belly for the first time but didn't share the number with me.  At my next appointment, I will be taking the glucose test and receiving the RhoGAM shot.  It's been fun not having to deal with any needles at my last few appointments, but I knew the time was soon coming when we'd meet again.  My doctor also mentioned her suggestion that I receive a flu shot and a whooping cough booster (she suggested both for Eric as well), so we'll see just exactly how much they will be sticking me like a pin cushion when I go back in 4 weeks!

One more note to mention is that we had a yard sale last weekend to get rid of a bunch of stuff and clear out the room that will become the nursery.  We only made $35, but the greater priority was getting the junk out of the house rather than trying to turn a profit.  With the exception of a few items, everything we didn't sell was packed up and immediately dropped off at Goodwill when we were finished.  It felt really good to get all of the stuff gone and we are almost done clearing everything out of the soon-to-be nursery.  It's going to be a big organizational process--especially when we start getting baby furniture--but it will be fun to begin shopping and decorating and imagining what the room will be like with Simon actually in it.       

 

At 24 weeks, our boy is about the size of a cantaloupe (yay! a bigger fruit).  I can tell that he is definitely getting bigger by the greater force of his movements and where I'm feeling him kick and punch.  One night, he was beating on me so bad from the inside that I freaked out a little bit and started to cry from the pain.  After about 10 minutes, Simon calmed down and so did I, and I realized that everything was indeed fine and he was just having one of his little active fits.  Other aches and pains I'm continuing to deal with are of course the leg cramps and a stiff lower back, both commonly felt after I wake up.  I've also noticed cramps in my toes getting progressively worse, again once recently bringing me close to tears (thanks, hormones).  I feel like such a baby because this stuff is nothing compared to all the pain that will be coming!  On a lighter note, I'm still not swollen in my legs or feet but I did decide to take off my fitted toe ring in preparation for it to happen eventually.  Now that I think about it, I probably should consider talking Eric into painting my toenails now to keep my feet looking pretty while they still can!  

pregnancy [week 20]

Holy crap, I am at the halfway mark!  It's crazy for me to imagine that I may potentially double in size over the approximate 20 weeks that are left of my pregnancy.  I already feel huge but I know my current size really is nothing just yet.  With my now-obvious protruding belly, I've officially graduated from my belly bands and have fully transitioned into maternity pants... and I'm not looking back!  I found the pair pictured above at Ross last week for $16 and am so in love!  I also purchased a second pair for $9 and will plan to feature them in my belly photo next week.  My new maternity jeans are without a doubt cuter than all of my pre-pregnancy jeans; can I just, like, wear them forever?

We had my fourth prenatal appointment on Tuesday.  Just a routine exam of checking my blood pressure, weight (official gain is 11 lbs. and no one called me fat, woo hoo!), urine, and baby's heartbeat.  My pregnancy is still progressing normally so everyone is happy.  In addition to this appointment, Eric and I also had to return to radiology for a second anatomy ultrasound.  I did not mention before that during our previous ultrasound baby boy would not flip over onto his alternate side to enable the technician to capture all the photos needed for my doctor to review.  Referred to as "technological errors," we were called back in to attempt a second shot, specifically of the umbilical cord.  This time, our tech was able to get a clear picture and as a thank you for "inconveniencing us," gave us a few more photos of baby boy.  Eric and I were in agreement that it was no inconvenience at all; we got to see our son again!  He looked bigger, was even more active, and if possible, appeared even more adorable.     

he's STILL a boy!

Our little man is the size of a banana this week, measuring about 6.5 inches long.  I am happy to report that I am not experiencing many of the normal 20th week pregnancy symptoms, such as swelling, heartburn, and cramping.  Sure, I get aches and pains here and there (especially in my back, which has recently become chair-picky), but it's been at least a month if not longer since I've felt any major round ligament pain.  I sit and prop my feet up as much as possible so I haven't swelled anywhere, either... and my high water intake helps, too.  My appetite has grown and baby boy moves around a lot when I'm eating, as if he's happy to be fed.  Eric still isn't sure if he's feeling anything through my belly other than my echoing pulse, and it seems like every time I grab his hand to experience our boy's now more powerful kicks, the little rascal gets stage fright and stops.  Maybe next week my son will give his daddy the kick we've been waiting for!     

Name update: Eric and I began 'test driving' a name earlier this week.  We both really like this name and even separately came up with a same potential middle name, but we don't want to officially decide on it without considering any other possibilities.  The problem, though, is that we haven't come across any other names that we like!  In any case, we've agreed to keep our 'test drive' name and any others we may discuss between the two of us and will announce THE NAME once we've made a final decision.  Check back soon!