Weekly update - 23 weeks

How far along: 23 Weeks

Total weight gain: Last check +9 lbs

Maternity clothes: Bottoms defiantly, tops not always

Sleep: Pretty decent still, it's been hard to fall asleep but once I'm out I tend to only get up once a night to pee.

Best moment of the week:Christmas in general. It was great to have everyone together. Lots of baby talk, lots of good food, lots of company!

Movement: UM YES. Tons. This week was the first week I felt pressure in my rib cage. Not a great feeling and I can only attribute it to someone thinking they need more room.

Gender: Girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: IN

What I miss: Being able to have a glass of wine once in a while. It's nice to have the option even though I mostly pass it up.

What I'm looking forward to: Our dr's appointment on the 3rd. It's my glucose screen, but also, hopefully, they will tell me I don't have to be on pelvic rest anymore.

Weekly wisdom: I don't really have any words of wisdom this week.

Milestones: No big ones this week.

What's happening with the baby: Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she's more then 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now - such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner - probably won't faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

What's happening with you: You may notice that your ankles and feet start to swell a bit in the coming weeks or months, especially at the end of the day or during the heat of summer. Sluggish circulation in your legs - coupled with changes in your blood chemistry that may cause water retention- may result in swelling, also known as edema. Your body will get rid of the extra fluid after you have your baby, which is why you'll pee frequently and sweat a lot for a few days after delivery. In the meantime, lie on your left side or put your feet up when you can, stretch out your legs when you sit, and avoid sitting - or standing- in one place for long periods of time.

How are you feeling:Feeling good all around. It was a short work week which always makes it drag but it was nice to only be three days of working. I got sick Thursday. Just a cold but it's lingering on. Nothing big this week. Still feeling lots of movement and love actually watching my belly move around. She responds when I play her seahorse toy for her. That is really cool, I think. I get winded if I have to take 2 flights of stairs instead of just one. Brad is quick to grab the heavy things that I try to carry. Which I don't really do much. I am starting to get tired more often during the day, but staying up later at night is easy for some reason. My winter coat is still fitting at 23 weeks. This belly is starting to actually hold my pregnancy pants up. My belly button is still in but pretty shallow. All those little folds that never see the light of day are actually really soft. JJ thinks its the microphone to talk to the baby and will only talk right into my belly button. Sooo cute.

Oh quick story, So we (JJ, Mom and I) were trying to find the baby's heartbeat with a stethoscope on Friday. She was being really active and moving away from the stethoscope, so mom would hear one beat and then she would scoot. JJ wanted to hear whatever it was that Grandma was listening to so mom handed it over. JJ put the things in his ears and the other end where he had seen Mom put it on my belly. He was listening very intently and as he listened, Brad walked up the hall to our room whistling. JJ's head shot up with his eyes as wide as could be and he sucked in his breath. I said "What JJ, what did you hear?". He proceeded to hum the tune that was whistled in the hall back to me. CUTEST THING EVER! I told him the baby was singing for him. One day I'll tell him that story and he'll laugh but it was just tooo cute. Mom and I got a little giggle out of it.

Weekly update -22 weeks

How far along: 22 Weeks

Total weight gain: Last check +9lbs

Maternity clothes: Still same as before, all maternity bottoms, still able to rock some regular tops.

Sleep: Decent, up once a night. Love my snoogle!

Best moment of the week: Dressing up and hanging out with Brad at JD and Nicki's wedding. It was a happy night and I always love dancing with my husband. Did you know he sings through every single slow dance we have ever dance to? The only exception so far has been our first dance at our wedding, but that was because he had to think about the dance. :)

Movement: Yes, lots. She seems to be able to kick me almost anywhere in my abdomen now. She kicks down low on my sides and I've even seen her kick up high by my ribs. Not in the ribs yet though, thanks.

Gender: Girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Not worrying about how to get comfortable while I'm trying to go to sleep.

What I'm looking forward to: Christmas!!!!

Weekly wisdom: If you have to go potty in the middle of the night, just get up and do it when you first wake up. If you don't, you'll just lie in bed pretending to ignore it but never being able to fall back asleep until your get up.

Milestones: No big milestones this week.

What's happening with the baby: At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, she is starting to look like a miniature newborn. Her lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and she's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath her gums. Her eyes have formed, but her irises still lack pigment. Lanugo (fine hair) covers her body and the deep wrinkles on her skin, which she'll sport until she adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Her pancreas is developing steadily.

What's happening with you: You may find your belly is becoming a hand magnet. You may also start to notice stretch marks on you abdomen as it expands to accommodate your growing baby. They can also appear on your butt, thighs, hips and breasts. There's no proof that lotion helps prevent them, but keeping your skin moisturized may help with any itching.

How are you feeling: TMI alert! This week I had some bleeding after B and I had some play time. It wasn't a huge thing and I figured it was just my cervix getting irritated. It freaked B out though. I called the OB and she said pelvic rest until my next appointment, which is Jan 3rd. She wouldn't normally have a problem with it but due to the little bit of placenta previa she wants to check my cervix. B is ok with this due to the fact that this little episode freaked him out.

TMI over. This week has been a "Crystal is very tired" week. We didn't have all of our shopping for the out of town family done and I think the stress of it was making my exhausted instead of the normal antsy and driven. We did however pick up our yearly ornament. It's a little snowman holding a cat. Brad liked it because he says Neala is practically raising our child. Neala is my buddy and naps with me for a while every night before bed. She spends that time draped across some part of my tummy purring her heart out. Squishe will probably be more familiar with the sound of Neala purring then most sounds out of utero. Squishe also has decided that she can kick all over. I'm feeling lots of movement and kicks that I'm not seeing all of. She must be beating up on some of my internal organs. Her kicks are defiantly able to be seen from the outside, even through my thin clothes. With thicker sweaters it's not noticeable yet. It's fun to feel her moving all around and doing her kung fu. I hope I remember this feeling forever.

Weekly Update - 21 weeks

How far along: 21 weeks

Total weight gain: +9 lbs, good job baby girl

Maternity clothes: yes, still some pre-preg shirts but loving the full panel pants.

Sleep: Sleeping has been a bit of an issue this week. When I wake up to make a potty trip, I have a hard time falling back asleep due to movement or whatever. I'm going to have to break out my lavender oil.

Best moment of the week: Seeing squishe in our ultrasound. Mom and I went to my appointment and we got to see her little self and watch her bounce all around.

Movement: Lots, most everyone has felt her wiggling or kicking.

Gender: another confirmation of Girl by our OB.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: IN

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly. If I lay on my belly even for just a minute she kicks away. Mom said I've given her a complex and she won't want to be swaddled because I squish her too much. :)

What I'm looking forward to: Finishing up decorating our tree. A weekend with no big plans.

Weekly wisdom: Don't ask your OB questions that you know the answer to unless your willing to hear the answer you know you don't want to hear.

Milestones: Squishe can hear things outside of just my body and my voice.

What's happening with the baby: Baby now weights about three-quarters of a pound and is 10 1/2 inches long (length of a carrot). You may soon feel like she's practicing martial arts as her initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to her activity as you get to know her better, Eyebrows and eyelids are present now and her vagina has begun to form as well.

What's happening with you: You're probably feeling pretty comfortable. You're not too big yet, and the usual discomforts of early pregnancy are, for the most part, gone. Relax and enjoy it while you can - the third trimester may bring with it a new crop of complaints. Minor possible complaints now may include: an increase in oil production contributing to acne. Also varicose and spider veins. Varicose veins tend to be worse if other family members have them. Prop your feet and legs up whenever possible and sleep on your left side. Spider veins are just a tiny group of blood vessels near the surface of your skin and usually disappear after delivery.

How are you feeling: Heartburn is a little bit of an issue. Usually a Tums will take care of it, so at least that's not too bad. Sleeping has been not great for a few nights this week. I get up about twice a night now. My belly skin feels like its starting to stretch for real, especially when laying on my side. Squishe likes to tap dance on my side at night. My belly kind of looks like a water bed when she kicks, which she is doing a lot. I have noticed also that when I bend over to pick something up or whatever I feel like I have to cough when I stand back up. She must be starting to take up the area that my diaphragm likes to be in. Putting shoes on by pulling my foot up on the bed or chair is getting hard. Guess I'll have to figure some other way out before too long. Overall, still pretty comfortable and not feeling too huge yet.

Weekly Update- 20 weeks

Oh how the belly grows in the evening. This picture was taken later in the evening when my belly is the biggest it seems.

How far along: 20 weeks!

Total weight gain: I thought I was going to find out but my appointment was rescheduled for next Tuesday due to my OB attending a delivery.

Maternity clothes: Exclusively maternity pants or comfy pants at home, still mostly in pre-preg tops.

Sleep: pretty good, still loving that pillow

Best moment of the week: finding out that Brook who is due on April 20th is having a baby girl and I was the only one who guessed correctly. :)

Movement: Not as noticeable as it was a week or two ago, at night, but I get kicks randomly throughout the day, usually a while after eating.

Gender: Girl, we'll have the OB double check again on Tuesday

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Being able to predict what size clothes I wear. I have to take two or three of everything into the dressing room now.

What I'm looking forward to: Trip to Michigan this weekend and appointment on Tuesday.

Weekly wisdom: Carry a water bottle with you everywhere and actually drink out of it. You may avoid getting yelled at to drink more water.

Milestones: HALFWAY!!!!!

What's happening with the baby: She's about 10 1/2 ounces and 10 inches from head to toe (banana). She's swallowing more which is good practice for his digestive system. Meconium is being produced and accumulating in her bowels. We'll get to see it in her first dirty diaper.

What's happening with you: Your uterus is about level with your belly button and you've likely gained around 10 lbs. Expect to gain a pound or so a week from now on. Make sure your getting enough iron. Your body needs more iron to keep up with your expanding blood volume, as well as for your baby and the growing placenta. Time to start signing up for classes. Childbirth education is important, especially if you're a first timer.

How are you feeling: This week has been a good week. I'm feeling tired but nothing out of normal for this time of year for me. My body seems to be changing at a crazy pace lately. I noticed, for the first time, on Wednesday night that when I lay on my side my belly drops to that side. I also am starting to stand a bit differently, more sway backed. I'm trying to make a conscious effort not to let my belly muscles stop working. I haven't worn regular pants to work all week. My appointment that was supposted to happen on Thursday had to be rescheduled. I'm excited to see the baby again. I'm feeling the stretching sensation more often mostly when I change positions. Bending over to get things off the floor when sitting or standing is getting to be not as easy as it used to be. We are still working on baby names and we have really started to read Hypnobirthing. The beliefs of this method are right on with our feelings about childbirth. Overall, feeling good but a little more tired. Trying hard to drink more water and relax.

Christmas Traditions

Do you have any traditions that you do year after year to prepare and/or help you get in the mood for Christmas?

Lots of people start out their Christmas season with some Black Friday shopping. I'm not a big fan of Black Friday. I would rather spend some time lounging in bed on one of the days I get off of work. This may change next year, with a little one to get up with but for now I really enjoy sleeping in, though not as much as my husband. Being a night owl makes him sleep in later then I would prefer but......

One of my traditions is to put the Christmas tree up Thanksgiving day weekend. I love having the tree up and decorated so that I can enjoy it all month. It also doesn't come down until after my little sisters birthday in early January. The only year this hasn't happened is the first year Brad and I were married. We had a real tree so we put it up later and took it down sooner.

Another tradition that has been a part of my life for it feels like forever, is that the first or second weekend of December my family packs into one car, or two now, and head up to Michigan for a dinner concert. My parents started this tradition 25 years ago. Mom was pregnant with my brother, Devin. They have been going almost every year since then and us kids have begun attending with them as we became "old enough". This weekend is the weekend. Everyone is going except the one who was in utero for that first one. Mom and Dad went up this afternoon and Brad, Erin, Jake and I will be leaving right after work to head that way. The five hour drive may be interesting. I haven't made a drive that long since I've been pregnant and before pregnancy I would take Dramamine for a drive of that length. Hopefully it will all be ok.

I'm looking forward to starting new traditions with my new little family. Maybe we can even begin some that will carry on until my baby is ready to begin making her own traditions, maybe even ones that she will carry on herself. Until then, I'm excited about a weekend away with my family and friends. :)

Merry Christmas!

Friends rock my world!

This is Brook and I. We have been friends since High School. We went to college together and even worked together for a while as students. Brook graduated first and got a job. Shortly after I graduated Brook decided it was time to change jobs. When her position became available I applied and got it. It's been fun to work in an area that knows one of my friends so well. We were in each others weddings and have been there for each other through all of the big events in life. Brook is one of those people that we can not see each other for a while and when we do it's just like falling back into each other. One of those friends that pass the test of time. You just plop yourselves back into each others lives. We both know the other is busy and that we love each other and that's good enough for me. I take my Brook time whenever we can both fit it in.


Two years ago Brook's life got even more busy. This little precious bundle of love became a part of her life. Brook gave birth to Corinne late at night and I was there to see Brook and meet this beautiful baby girl as soon as I possibly could. Birthday parties and dinners with that family have changed quite a bit. Our relationship hasn't changed but what we talk about certainly has. :)

A few months ago I let Brook and a few friends and family know in person that Brad and I were expecting our first baby. I had this feeling that Brook was hiding a little something. About 2 months ago, I think, Brook met me for lunch and pulled out some awesome ultrasounds. She is pregnant too!!!!! Her baby's due date is 4 days after my baby's due date. It has been sooo cool to have someone who I'm so close with share in this pregnancy with me.

Yesterday Brook had her ultrasound to find out the gender and, ya know, check out the baby. After she got back she posted on Facebook that the baby was not shy and who wanted to guess if Corinne would have a little sister or brother. The responses started rolling in. EVERY single person guessed Boy, but not me. I just have had this feeling that it was a little girl. Shortly after dinner I got a phone call. Brook let me know that I was the ONLY one! The Only one to guess correctly!

We're having babies together. Baby girls! Oh the play dates to come. The next fun thing will be to see our bellies grow and then to see which baby decides that they will be the first to leave the comfort of their mommy's belly. I can't wait and I love sharing this journey with Brook. It's really soo much fun for me.

Weekly Update - 19 weeks

How far along: 19 weeks

Total weight gain: unknown, I go to the OB on the 2nd so we'll see then.

Maternity clothes: I'm giving up regular pants. I had to wear pre-prego jeans two days this week and used my Be-Band one day. I think I'm done with that.

Sleep: Um, I got this awesome pillow called a Snoogle. I LOVE it! So comfy!

Best moment of the week: Getting a great prego pillow. Seeing my family for Thanksgiving.

Movement: Yes, especially when I am squishing her. Like when I'm laying on my tummy or have my knees pulled up in front of me.

Gender: Baby Girl

Labor signs: None yet

Belly button in or out: In but more shallow then ever.

What I miss: This week was the first week I have missed wine. A glass of wine with Thanksgiving dinner would have been nice.

What I'm looking forward to: Putting up the Christmas tree and the holiday season. Christmas music! Monthly appt with the OB.

Weekly wisdom: Have fun maternity clothes shopping. Stuff a sweater up your tank, put the belly on, enjoy it.

Milestones: Baby will start to taste what I taste. Time to start varying my diet.

What's happening with the baby: Her sensory development if exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you. Your baby weighs in at about 8.5 ounces and measures 6 inches from head to bum (about the size of a large heirloom tomato). Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. Vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

What's happening with you: Think your big now? You'll start growing even faster in the weeks to come. As a result, you may notice some achiness or brief stabbing pain in your lower abdomen - especially when you shift position or at the end of an active day. Most likely, this is round ligament pain. Nothing to be alarmed about. Your skin may be changing, too. Red palms are due to a rise in estrogen. Chloasma or "the mask of pregnancy", a darkening of the skin around your cheeks, forehead and upper lip, is due to an increase in pigment. This can affect other parts of your body including the line running from your belly button to your pubic bone, called the linea nigra. These darkened spots will fade shortly after delivery. In the meantime, protect yourself from the sun, which intensifies the pigment changes.

How are you feeling: This week has been a fun week. We went to see Harry Potter 7 and I only had to run to the restroom once during the 2.5 hour movie. I say that's a success. I spent lots of time with peoples hands on my belly. Thanksgiving and a visit from a friend, everyone wants to feel her kick. She wiggles and squirms, but when I want her to just kick she sooo doesn't cooperate. My appetite is coming on for real now, so I may not have to worry about weight gain anymore. Thanksgiving helped, having all that food around. Black Friday was about getting maternity pants for cheap, so that was great. She really doesn't like me laying on my tummy and puts up a bit of a fight. I get little kicks and things if she is feeling smushed. My skin has felt very dry lately, hands and feet for sure. Good thing I have lots of lotion.

We're having a ............

GIRL!!!!!

Meet our baby girl.

She has all her fingers and yawned and wiggled for us.

Brad is excited, I think, to become a daddy to a little girl. He doesn't exactly know what to expect. But I know he can learn, after all, he learned how to mostly deal with me and I'm a girl.

I have another appointment on December 2nd. I'll get to see the baby girl again! Brad can't come so my mom is going to join me. Hopefully we'll hear only good news.

Dear Crystal,

I am sorry for being more of an ass last night than was strictly necessary.

Love,

Brad

Weekly update - 18 weeks

First shot in comfy clothes, I'm sure there will be others.

How far along: 18 weeks

Total weight gain: Not sure but I think I'm gaining now.

Maternity clothes: Still pretty good. Not fully in maternity clothes, However Saturday I took a trip to get some bras so we are officially in maternity bras. Not to mention going up two cup sizes.

Sleep: Still really good compared to what I thought it would be by now.

Best moment of the week: The 3D ultrasound and visit from Brads sister and Mom.

Movement: Yes, mostly a while after I eat or lay down.

Gender: GIRL!!!! 3D/4D Ultrasound was amazing. So much fun to have everyone there to find out.

Labor signs: None

Belly button is or out: In

What I miss: Not having to try on everything to know if it's going to fit before I buy or wear it.

What I'm looking forward to: Yummy Thanksgiving and a weekend without craziness.

Weekly wisdom: Have friends and family have kids before you. It helps a lot in planning what you have to buy or be given. :)

Milestones: Gender scan and developing bones.

What's happening with the baby: Head to rump, she's about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and weighs about 7 ounces. She's busy flexing her arms and legs - movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. Her blood vessels are visible through her skin, and her ears are now in their final position, although they are still standing out from her head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around her nerves, a process that will continue for a year after she's born. Girls uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. Boys genitals are noticeable now, but he may hid them from your during an ultrasound.

What's happening with you: Hungry? An increase in appetite is pretty common about now. Make it count by choosing meals and snacks that are rich in nutrients instead on empty calories. Bigger, more comfortable clothes are a must now as your appetite and waistline grow.

Your cardio vascular system is undergoing dramatic changes, and during this trimester you blood pressure will probably be lower then usual. Don't spring up too fast from a lying or sitting position or you might feel a little dizzy.

From now on, when you lie down, it's best to lie on your side - or at least partly tilted to one side. Try placing a pillow behind you or under your hip or upper leg for comfort.

If you haven't had a second- trimester ultrasound, you'll probably have one soon. This helps your practitioner check how your baby's growing, screen for certain birth defects, check the placenta and the umbilical cord, determine whether the due date you're working with is accurate, and see how many babies your carrying. During the exam, you might see your baby moving around or sucking her thumb.

How are you feeling: I'm feeling really good. I feel like the end of this week I just started to really begin to look pregnant. Everything is up high enough that I can still wear some of my regular pants. Bra shopping was crazy. I went on purpose to some place that would fit me and have the best knowledge of how my body would continue to change. It worked out and was less expensive then I thought. Other then that we are just absorbing that we are having a baby girl. A little bit of stretching and stuff in my abdomen but still very comfortable in my body.

What will it be?

What kind of parts will you have little Squishy? Will you stand up to pee or sit down? Mommy is guessing you'll be a sitter, Daddy will not guess. He says his feelings change by the minute. We will be finding out very soon, tomorrow at 4:15 pm to be exact! Please don't be modest, everyone is excited to find out what you are.

Weekly update - 17 weeks

How far along: 17 weeks


Total weight gain: +2 lbs total


Maternity clothes: Sometimes, still fitting into most of my pre-prego clothes


Sleep: my OB said it's officially time to start trying to sleep on my sides. If I wake up on my back, it's fine I just have to roll to my side to go back to sleep. Sleeping on my stomach is officially not comfortable without being propped up quite a bit. Sleeping well though.


Best Moment of the week: Our ultrasound with our families.


Movement: Yes, and getting stronger.


Gender: GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!! We found out on Saturday with Mom, Dad, Erin, Jake, Amy and Ethel. It was so much fun to find out all together. I wish everyone could have been there too.


Labor signs: None


Belly button in or out: Getting more shallow, I never thought that would happen.


What I miss: Not feeling like "small" things make me tired.


What I'm looking forward: A week without crazy amounts of things to do and weekend home.


Weekly wisdom: Include your family in things, it's fun to have them around.


Milestones: Found out the gender.


What's happening with the baby:Your baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord - her life line to the placenta - is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (as much as a turnip) and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints and her sweat glands are starting to develop.


What's happening with you: Starting to feel a bit off balance? As your belly grows, your center of gravity changes, so you may begin to occasionally feel a little unsteady on your feet. Try to avoid situations with a high risk of falling. You'll also want to be sure to buckle up in the car- keep the lap portion of the seat belt under your belly, drawn snugly across your hips, and also use the shoulder harness, which should fit snugly between your breasts. You may also notice your eyes becoming drier.


How are you feeling: I'm feeling pretty good. My appetite seems to be increasing. I was very excited to find out that we are having a girl. I always kind of wanted a girl first. My body seems to be changing everyday. The newest addition to the pregnancy changes is my face is getting dry, very strange for me. We had Amy and Ethel in town this weekend and it was tons of fun and good food. I"m still fitting into a few pair of my work pants and most of my shirts still fit. The shirts can be a little too short for my comfort some times, so I have to be prepared to possibly switch shirts before I find what works. Energy is decent but I get winded more easily and I don't think I could really dance now if I tried, without passing out. :)

Winter what?!?!

Welcome to winter, I guess. Friday they are calling for flurries. Can you believe that?! I'm not ready for snow. I'm just starting to look forward to Christmas, but that doesn't mean that snow is in my plans yet.

I mean, who doesn't love wearing sweaters and cuddling by the fire. However, with a belly on the way, I'm not looking forward to growing out of my warm coat and wondering if I'm going to be hot or cold, do I need short sleeves or a parka. Although, in my office you always need a parka.

Actually, I'm starting to really look forward to Christmas. It's my favorite season to decorate for and food to eat. I feel all cuddly and warm during Christmas. Thinking about the Christmas shopping just makes me excited. I mean, what girl doesn't like to shop and who doesn't like to shop for other people. It just makes me smile!

I hope everyone is ready for some cold weather. Get out those scarves and hats. I wonder where mine are?

Weekly update - 16 weeks

How far along: 16 weeks

Total weight gain: unknown. Dr.s appointment Monday so we will see. Brad is supporting more food in my belly though.

Maternity clothes: When I feel like it I wear my maternity jeans. I still have plenty of clothes that fit though.

Sleep: Still great

Best moment of the week: Realizing I was feeling the baby!

Movement: Yes! It feels like muscle twitches. Soo cool!

Gender: We'll know soon. I'm still feeling girl.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In, as is the belly ring.

What I miss: Not having to be so concerned about my weight.

What I'm looking forward to: A holiday next week, hearing the heartbeat on Monday and Amy and Ethel's visit.

Weekly wisdom: Buy used maternity clothes! Gotta love those second hand stores.

Milestones: Ear bones are developing so it's time to start really singing and talking to the baby. Mom bought a little seahorse that plays music so I will play that for the baby at least once a day.

What's happening with the baby: Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double it's weight and add inches to it's length. Right now, it's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long and 3 1/2 ounces. Their legs are much more developed, head is more erect than it has been, and it's eyes have moved closer to the front of the head. Ears are close to the final spot too. The patterning of it's scalp has begun, though locks of hair aren't recognizable yet. That heart is pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day and that amount will continue to increase as the baby continues to grow and develop.

What's happening with you: The top of your uterus is about halfway between your pubic bone and your navel, and the round ligaments that support it are thickening and stretching as it grows. You're probably feeling a whole lot better as you settle into pregnancy too. Less nausea, fewer mood swings, and "glowing" skin contribute to an overall sense of well-being. Soon you may be feeling the most wonderful moments of pregnancy - feeling your baby move. The earliest movements may feel like little flutters, gas bubbles, or even like popcorn popping. Over the following weeks they'll grow stronger and you'll be able to feel them much more frequently.

How are you feeling: This week was a crazy week. Sunday I had a dance show and found that it's not as easy to recover quickly after a dance as it used to be. I also look AMAZING in a leotard at 16 weeks pregnant. (just kidding!) Wednesday and Thursday I stayed home from work because I was having dizziness when I shouldn't be and generally felt like crap. I found out it's because I was probably dehydrated (not really surprised). I"m feeling much better now and am looking forward to my appointment on Monday to find out all about the baby and stuff.

Thankful Thursdays!

I haven't done one of these in a while.

Today is dragging by at work so I thought "why not".

Today I am thankful for:

• Space heaters - we are not allowed to have them in our building but everyone does. If I didn't have one today I would be wearing 2 sweaters.
• My Hubs - We have started reading out loud before bed on the days we go to bed together, so about 3 times a week. We're actually reading the House of Night series (teen vampire) which makes me giggle.
• A healthy pregnancy!
• Naps- I'm in my second trimester but that second wind has not come around yet. I', looking forward to going to bed early tonight.
• New puppies - Erin got her puppy finally. I'm glad it's hers and not mine. I wouldn't want to be going through what she is going through right now.
• Potlucks - I didn't have to buy lunch!
• Dinners with friends
• Upcoming visitors - I love getting to plan some fun things to do with out of town guests. We're looking forward to Amy and Ethel's visit the second week of Nov.

What are you thankful for?

15 weeks - Maternity update

Maybe on day I'll learn to stand up straight in pictures. :) Hello Neala, nice of you to join the picture too.

How far along: 15 weeks

Total weight gain: -1 lbs, I feel like I have put on weight this time, I'm sure the doctor will tell me I'm up some at my appointment on the 8th.

Maternity clothes: I officially bought a pair of maternity jeans. They were wonderful all weekend, so much so that I cried a little inside when I had to put on regular work pants.

Sleep: Sleep is great still. No big issues.

Best moment of the week: Finding out that one of my best friends is pregnant and only 4 days behind me. We've been missing each other at the OBG's by days. I'm soooooooo excited.

Movement: Maybe once a week ago but I haven't felt anything since, so I can't confirm.

Gender: Still feeling girl. Brad and I did the ring on a hair test and when I held the string it indicated girl, when Brad held it it showed boy.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Not wondering if something is going to fit or not. Some things do and some don't so it's always a question.

What I'm looking forward to: A belly that isn't questionable

Weekly wisdom: Hmmm ........ nothing.

Milestones: No big milestones this week.

What's happening with the baby: Baby is now about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). Baby is busy moving amniotic fluid through their nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in the lungs begin to develop. Legs are growing longer then arms and all of his or her joints and limbs can move voluntarily. Baby can sense light through his or her fused eyelids and if you shine a flashlight on your belly baby will even move away from its beam. This week if you were to do an ultrasound you could finally find out what gender that little guy or girl is.

What's happening with you: You've probably gained about 5 pounds by now and are well into the swing of your pregnancy, but may be surprised by an unexpected symptom now and then. Stuffy nose is at the top of that list. It's so common that there is even a name for it: "rhinitis of pregnancy". Some women suffer from nose bleeds as a result of increased blood volume and blood vessel expansion in the nose. Don't be surprised if you and your partner are feeling a little stressed out these days. Many pregnant couples worry about their baby's health and how they'll handle the changes ahead. This is also the most wonderful trimester for most women. Physical discomforts wane and energy is on the rise.

How are you feeling: On Sunday I had the first shortness of breath sensation while singing at church. It was strange to feel like I couldn't breath just from singing. Other then that this week has been good. On Friday I had a GREAT day because spilled the prego beans. I had kind of had a feeling that she was pregnant and just not saying anything (she is the BEST secret keeper) and she IS!!! We are 4 days apart in our pregnancy and hearing about what it's been like for her this time, I'm glad I'm having my pregnancy and not hers. I was really tired this week but I didn't have my down time on Wednesday that I usually have. It made Thursday and Friday really tough. I wasn't too emotional this week, which is good. Overall, good but sleepy week.

Maternity Update Day - 14 weeks

I started this update as Maternity Monday. It worked for...one time. Then I decided that if I'm updating on the 3rd day of that week then your not really getting a good idea of what that week was like for me. Also I'm not really going to get an accurate record of whats happening in my pregnancy. So I'm trying to post the week before update around mid week of the next week. Ex: I was 14 weeks on Oct 16th, my post won't be visible until probably the 27th-ish.

How far along: 14 weeks

Total weight gain: -1lb

Maternity clothes: Not yet but my goal this weekend is to pick up two pair of maternity work pants

Sleep: Actually, like a rock. I'm not waking up much to go to the bathroom and I'm not noticing Brad when he comes to bed, no matter what time. I usually wake up around 3 for the first time and then shortly before my alarm goes off at 6.

Best Moment of the Week: It was a pretty normal week, nothing exciting really happened.

Movement: No feelings yet, but it should be anytime in the next few weeks. I suspect sooner rather then later.

Gender: Still feeling girl. Still need to do the wedding ring test.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: My flat belly. :(

What I'm looking forward to: The Pumpkin Show this weekend. It's a bit of a drive but it's worth it. Plus Katy and her man are coming with us.

Weekly wisdom: Keep trying to embrace your changing body. All those changes are for a good reason. At least this is what I have to keep telling myself.

Milestones: Second Trimester!!!!!! Miscarriage rate drops again!

What's happening with the baby: Baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee and maybe even suck it's thumb. Your baby is stretching out. From bottom to head, baby is about 3 1/2 inches (about the size of a lemon) and weighs 1 1/2 ounces. It's body is growing faster than his head, which now sits on a more distinct neck. By the end of the week, his or her arms will have grown to a length that is in proportion to the rest of it's body. Lanugo (ultra fine, downy hair) is starting to grow all over it's body. The liver is doing it's job and the spleen starts helping in production of red blood cells. Their little hands an feet are more flexible and active, though you probably can't feel those tiny kicks and punches yet.

What's happening with you:Your energy is likely returning, your breast may be feeling less tender and you queasiness may have completely abated by now. The top of your uterus is a bit above your pubic bone, which may be enough to push your tummy out a tad. Starting to show can be quite a thrill, giving you and your partner visible evidence of the baby you've been waiting for. Take some time to plan, daydream, and enjoy this amazing time. It's normal to worry a bit now and then, but try to focus on taking care of yourself and your baby, and having faith that you're well equipped for what's ahead.

How are you feeling: This week has actually been a sleepy week for me. I have wanted to nap most days after work and Thursday spent a good bit sleeping in the evening. I am finally starting to show a little bit. I can still fit in most of my pants but I'm thinking about grabbing a pair or two of maternity pants this weekend. My nausea is almost all gone. I have a tiny bit but just every once in a while. The pregnancy emotions though are awful. I'm much more weepy then I used to be. I need a lot more attention from Brad then I used to also, which is tough for him because I"m not great at letting him know until I'm already sad about it. I'm looking forward to starting to research baby things. We have started picking up things, just little things like onesies and little one piece jammies. I can't wait to feel those little flutters of movement. Overall, doing well.

Girl Talk

Do you remember when you were 14 and all you wanted to do was gossip with your girlfriends on the phone all evening long? Eventually your mom or dad would boot you off, but if you had your way you would stay on there all evening. It didn't even really matter what you were talking about. The topics could range from boys, girls, pets, clothes, school, after school stuff, the fact that your fingernail polish was chipping. Nothing was off limits or taboo. As I grew up the topics became a bit more racy, a bit more all encompassing. I'm still one of those people that feels no topic is off limits.

My girlfriends and I know sooooooo much about each other, it's actually pretty crazy to think about. Sometimes we get in a pattern where every time we get together it's this kind of bonding. One or the other of us needs it, to get something off our chest or be reassured that were not wrong or strange in our expecations in life. Sometimes it will be months until this kind of a session rolls around again. It had been a while for me and, let me tell you what!!! There is nothing like a good gab session with a girlfriend. It's just something that can't be fulfilled by your significant other.

Get your girl talk on!

weekly update - 13 weeks

Picture Fail. We have one for 14 weeks though.

How far along: 13 Weeks!



Total weight gain: My scale is officially broken. I was down one before so we'll see in 2 weeks when i see the doc.



Maternity clothes: Not yet. Some pants are getting tight though.



Sleep: pretty good still. Getting up about twice a night for potty breaks.



Best moment of the week: JJ kissing my baby belly goodnight.



Movement: None yet, but could be anytime.



Gender: Still feeling girl this week.



Labor signs: None yet.



Belly button in or out: In



What I miss: Not questioning everything that goes in my body or wondering if I've had too much caffeine for the day.



What I'm looking forward to: Second Trimester! Come on Saturday!



Weekly wisdom: Enjoy this time. Don't set your expectations too high on what you can handle and what you can't. Just do what you can.



Milestones: My dad buying an outfit for the baby. He is quietly excited but hadn't picked anything up yet. Last night I came home to a little jammie onsie that he had picked out at Little Darlings. It says Happy Camper on it. I hope our little bug will live up to that.



What's happening with the baby: Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips and their body is starting to catch up with their head, which makes up just one third of the body size now. Your baby is almost three inches long and weights nearly an ounce.



What's happening with you: This is the last week of your first trimester, and your risk of miscarriage is now much lower than earlier in pregnancy. Next week marks the beginning of your second trimester, a time of relative comfort for many women as morning sickness and fatigue subside. You may even notice a distinct libido lift around this time. Birth is still months away, but your breasts may have already begun to produce colostrum, the nutrient-rich fluid that feeds your baby for the first few days after birth, before your milk comes in.



How are you feeling: This week has been a tired week. I've been trying to eat more because of the pound I lost between my last two appointments. I'm enjoying the weather and starting to think about maternity clothes for the fall. My belly is rounding out a bit but I don't consider myself showing at all yet. I do need to get a pregnancy pillow and have been looking at the Snoogle as an option. I used to be a anyway I could sleeper. Sleeping on my tummy is beginning to feel different and not as comfortable. I also am noticing that my hands and feet are more dry then they used to be. I wonder if that is pregnancy or weather related. Looking forward to the second trimester and the comfort that comes with making it that far, even though I don't feel like there is even a chance of this baby going anywhere.

Maternity Update - 12 weeks

How far along: 12 weeks

Total weight gain: -1 lb

Maternity clothes: Not yet. OBG said it would probably be another month before I need new pants.

Sleep: Ok. I've been sleeping more soundly. I added a body pillow to our bed this week. It's nice but not necessary yet, I don't think.

Best moment of the week: Seeing the baby jumping bean around at our ultrasound on Monday and hearing the heartbeat twice in one week.

Movement: Not yet. Should be in the next few weeks.

Gender: I have been feeling girl the last week. I still refer to the baby as a boy though. Weird.

Labor signs: None yet.

Belly button in or out: In. I asked a girl at church when her turkey timer popped. She had an outie to begin with. Felt a little silly after I asked but it's one of the thing I've been wondering about. :)

What I miss: Evenings that aren't so jam packed full. I feel really busy right now.

What I'm looking forward to: The second Trimester!

Weekly wisdom: I'm not feeling very wise this week. Just emotional. :)

Milestones: I think the only big milestone is that baby is pretty developed. All the big things are there.

What's happening with the baby: This week the baby is developing it's reflexes. It's fingers will soon begin opening and closing, toes will curl, eye muscles will clench, and it's mouth will make sucking movements. Actually, if you prod your abdomen, your baby will squirm in response, not that you'll be able to feel it yet. It's intestines have grown so fast that they had to hang out in baby's umbilical cord, but now they will start moving into it's abdomen. Baby is now looking unquestionably human; it's eyes have moved from the sides of it's head to the front and it's ears are right where they should be. From crown to rump, your baby-to-be is just over two inches long (about the size of a plum) and weighs a half an ounce.

What's happening with you: Your uterus has grown to the point where your OBG can now feel the top of it low in your abdomen, just above your pubic bone. If your still fairly small and not yet ready for maternity clothes, you've no doubt noticed your waist is thickening and that you're more comfortable in loose, less restrictive clothing. You may feel heartburn more often due to progesterone relaxing the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach. For many women this doesn't begin until later in pregnancy when your uterus is pressing up on your stomach.

How are you feeling: This week was a great week. We had an appointment on Monday and got to see our wiggle worm. Then Thursday was our normal monthly check up. I got to hear the heartbeat for more then three seconds because the baby must not have been jumping around as much or something. We found out that we will have the anatomy scan on December 2nd. I have been feeling pretty good. Nausea still comes and goes. I have also been having a little bit of round ligament pain, or at least that's what my OB says it is. It should be here for a little while now and then go away until closer to the end. I still don't really feel pregnant, but am beginning to worry about what my body is going to look like as this pregnancy progresses. My belly is still pretty flat in the morning and expands as the day goes on. It's also almost time to invest in some new bras. I'm kind of putting it off though, because they are just going to keep growing.

Cloth Diapers

One of the things that Brad and I are very seriously considering doing as parents is cloth diapering our little one. With that in mind, I search and research cloth diapering sites. I recently came across this website clothdiaperblog.com that is doing a give away. So in order to get the ability to enter more then once I am posting about it on our blog. Here's the link if you would like to check it out.


http://clothdiaperblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/medium_connect.jpg

Weekly Update - 11 weeks

Going to a ballet. Good timing Erin, my eyes are shut.

How far along: 11 weeks

Total weight gain: Don't know yet. Two doctors appointments next week, so I will know then.

Maternity clothes: Nothing yet. I did pick up a Be Band for when I can't button my jeans. But I haven't really gotten to any real stage of showing.

Sleep: This week I have been sleeping like a rock but waking up tired. This week two nights I haven't even woken up to go to the restroom throughout the night. I probably need to be drinking more water.

Best moment of the week: Seeing Requiem with Erin. It's been a while since I've had down time with her and it was really nice to spend time with her that wasn't driving to and from work.

Movement: None yet. The baby is supposedly kicking away but I can't feel it yet.

Gender: I had some pretty strong boy feelings at the beginning of the week but they have settled down to just a boy simmer.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Sweets. I'm not having aversions to sweets they just don't sound tasty.

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing the baby at our Monday appointment and then hearing the baby again on Thursday with my mom.

Weekly wisdom: Take a minute every day or every other to check out your body. Notice what is changing and what isn't yet. It's amazing that our bodies can do this. Love it!

Milestones: We started cleaning out the study, in order to move stuff from the office into that room and get the office cleared out for a nursery. We also went into Babies-R-Us for the first time as parents-to-be (shopping for a baby shower). It's a little overwhelming, how many different kinds of pacifiers can really exist.

What's happening with the baby: Your baby is just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a fig. They are also almost fully formed. It's hands will soon open and close into fists and some of the bones are beginning to harden. They are already kicking away more frequently . You won't feel it for another couple of months. Also, the diaphragm is forming and hiccuping is becoming a regular thing.

What's happening with you: If your like most women, you may be starting to feel more energetic now and your nausea may be starting to wane. Unfortunately, you may be suffering from constipation and heartburn. It's all for a good cause, right? Your appetite will likely return soon, and you'll start to gain about a pound a week.

How are you feeling: This week has been a tired week for me. I don't feel like I'm getting enough sleep or exercise. My nephew comes over almost every day and wants to play and play and play and I just want to sleep. I play though and then fall into bed. Salty stuff was the craving of the week. That seems to have tapered off a bit but salty still sounds good. Nausea is mild but I picked up some prego drops to see if that would help or not. I'm trying to be better about drinking my water, I slacked off a bit for a few days. I also noticed the blue veins that they mentioned in the What to Expect book a few weeks ago. Kinda weird to see. Towards the end of the day I have been getting comments about my belly from people that know me really well and know my body, I keep saying it's just gas and they laugh at me.

Maternity Update - 10 weeks

How far along: 10 Weeks!

Total weight gain: I think I'm only going to update this after appointments, If I want to do it more often I have to buy a scale.

Maternity clothes: I bought a maternity shirt but I'm not close to wearing it yet. No bump equals no maternity clothes.

Sleep: Sleep is pretty normal still I'm getting up an average of 3 times a night to pee. It's not bad though.

Best moment of the week: Being told I was "one of them" at book club and knowing that that means that I will have great care while I'm in the hospital.

Movement: None yet that isn't gas.

Gender: Strong feelings of boy. Craving lots of salty and spicy.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Not getting random pains in my growing uterus area. I thought I was done with growing pains in my teens.

What I'm looking forward to: Date night with Brad to see Inception. Might invite some others along and make it a double date.

Weekly wisdom: Gas-ex works miracles!!!! Invest!

Milestones: We did the finger prick test to get ready for the Ultra-screen (test that screens for Downs and Trisomy 13 and 18, I believe). I made Brad be my doctor. He had to clean and stab my finger, clean it after we got the 5 drops of blood we needed and put the band-aid on. It was actually a lot more fun doing it that way then if Brad would have just watched me do it.

What's happening with the baby: Baby is a little over an inch or so long and weighs less then a quarter of an ounce, about the size of a kumquat. Baby has also completed the most critical portion of it's development. The fetal period is a time when the tissues and organs rapidly grow and mature. It's swallowing fluid and kicking up a storm! Baby has tiny nails forming on separate toes and fingers (no more webbing) and peach fuzz hair is growing on it's tender skin. Baby's limbs can bend now too!

What's happening with you: At the next prenatal appointment, you should be able to hear the heartbeat with the help of a Doppler. Before pregnancy, your uterus was the size of a small pear. By this week it's as big as a grapefruit. You may or may not be ready for maternity clothes. If not, your clothes may be becoming uncomfortably tight and your blossoming are straining the seams of your bra. The thickening in your midsection is most likely due to slight weight gain and bloating.

How are you feeling: Feeling better this week. The nausea has faded for the most part. Gas is still a daily thing but I think that's around to stay, or at least that's what I've heard. I'm more moody then I have been. My mood fluctuates a lot. Feeling like I'm looking chubby and not prego. My mom keeps saying that I've got two in there, I think I'm just gassy. :) The first ultrasound only showed one and I hope we stick with that. The last thing I want to do when I get home is laundry, so can I tell you how low I am on work pants! Other then that I'm doing pretty good. I spent a lot of time this week reading for book club and almost finished the book. Not something I would have read had it not been the book that was chosen, but it gave me excuses to be more lazy. We really need to get back in the habit of walking in the evenings, we have defiantly slacked on that.

Maternity Monday - 9 weeks

How far along: 9 weeks



Total weight gain: I didn't get on the scale or get a picture taken this week.



Maternity clothes: Not yet.



Sleep: Starting to get up more frequently during the night. Not uncomfortable yet though.



Best Moment of the Week: Finding out how wonderful the Gas-x dissolving strips are.



Movement: None



Gender: Feeling boy still, I think.



Labor signs: Not yet



Belly Button in or out: In. Contemplating the belly ring... should it stay or should it go now?



What I miss: Not feeling sick half the day or more. Ahhh, I crave the days of no nausea.



What I'm looking forward to: Not baby related, but I'm looking forward to the Ren Fest this weekend.



Weekly wisdom: Enjoy when you are feeling good. Get some things done. You will inevitably return to not feeling great.



Milestones: The baby has graduated from embryo to the fetus stage! Is that exciting, yeah kinda.



What's happening with the baby: Your baby is about an inch long, that's grape sized for those of you who like the comparisons, and weighs just a fraction of an ounce. They are starting to look more human. All essential body parts are accounted for even though they will be doing fine tuning for months. Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers and the valves start to form this week. They have tiny ear lobes and teeth buds. The eyes are fully formed but their eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. The placenta is now taking over producing hormones. Most of the basics are in place so prepare your self for that little babe to start gaining weight.



What's happening with me: You still may not look pregnant even if your waist is thickening a bit. You probably feel pregnant, though. Not only are morning sickness and other physical symptoms out in full force, but you may feel like an emotional pinball. Mood swings are common. Try to cut yourself some slack. For most women, moodiness flares up at around six to ten weeks and eases up in the second trimester. Don't bid farewell to it completely though, it commonly reappears as pregnancy winds to a close.

How are you feeling: This week is the first week that I have really felt pregnant. I had a fair amount of nausea and was pretty sleepy. I also am starting to feel chubby, not pregnant, just like I'm gaining weight and that it mostly shows up when my tummy is full. After I eat I'm all pudgy looking and when I'm all full of ouchy tummy gas. The gas so far has been the worse. It's not the kind of gas that will come out, it just stays inside and makes me hurt. It will get better and I'm lucky that it's taken this long to get to the uncomfortable part so, I'll take it I guess.

Estimated Due Date!

written 9-9-10



Today was the first appointment with our OB/GYN. I've been going to her forever and Brad actually met her at Rusty Bucket a while ago. This was his first time seeing her in doctor mode though. He was a note taking fiend!



We did the expected: pee in a cup, weight, BP, blood draw, all that jazz. She confirmed that we were right about where we thought we were in our number of weeks pregnant. I'll will be pushing this little thing out right around April 16th, 2011. We got to experience seeing our little baby for the first time. It was so cool. Brad just kept saying "What! What! What!". I think he was a little excited. That was a very similar reaction to when we found out we were pregnant. It still feels really surreal. I feel really good compared to what I'm sure I could be feeling. I don't have crazy symptoms. Hopefully I'm not just a late bloomer. :) Anyhow, it's little heart was fluttering away and we even got to see it karate chop and kick at the same time. It was sooo cool.



We also were informed that once you see the heart fluttering away, your miscarriage rate drops to about 5%. So we got the go ahead to tell the people we love the most. :)



Right after our appointment we called Brad's family to let them all know our exciting news. Everyone was very happy to hear that we are expecting. Now we are going to tell our friends and then I will actually get to post these post that I have been writing and saving.



Here is our little squish!

Hi Squish!

Your Daddy and I, (and everyone else that knows at this point)are very excited that you exist and are developing really well. We're very excited to get to go through pregnancy with you. Welcome to our life. Keep on doing really well in there, ok. We love you already, so much!

Love,

Mommy

Maternity Monday - 8 weeks

written 9-7-10



How far along: 8 weeks

Total weight gain: I was down 2lbs when I checked. But not really sure

Maternity clothes: Not yet

Sleep: Decent, Falling asleep well, getting up once a night for a bathroom trip. Napping is becoming my friend.

Best moment of the week: First pre-natal appointment. Seeing the little squish on the ultrasound machine. Brad not knowing where to stand so he doesn't get to see "it all" in a new way.

Movement: none

Gender: Not having any strong feelings. Probably feeling boy more then girl. Not sure.

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Eating anything I want. Like all the yummy cheeses.

What I'm looking forward to: Starting to show a little. I'm trying to love the stage I'm in though.

Weekly wisdom: Enjoy feeling good when you do. It could be fleeting.

Milestones: 1st Ultrasound. Saw the heartbeat!

What's happening with the baby: Webbed fingers and toes are poking out from it's little hands and feet. Our little smush has eyelids that practically cover it's eyes, breathing tubes extend from it's throat to the branches of it's little developing lungs. That little tail is just about gone. In it's brain, nerve cells are connecting to one another, forming primitive neural pathways. He or she is about the size of a kidney bean and is constantly moving and shifting, even though I can't feel it yet.

What's happening with me: You may notice that your bra is getting more snug. Soon you'll likely need a bigger size with better support. Don't be surprised if you go up a cup or two, especially if it's your first baby. Fatigue caused by hormonal changes may be contributing to your sluggishness. Nausea and vomiting can certainly cost you enery. And you may be having trouble getting a good night's sleep at this point, especially if you're uncomfortable or find you need to get up to pee.

How am I feeling: I'm still feeling really good. I'm more able to nap during the day but don't find myself needing one every day or anything. Nausea is still not a very big concern. My boobs are getting bigger and some of my pants just aren't as comfortable as they used to be. I'm not feeling as bloated as I was, but I do feel like I'm floating most of the time due to all this stinking water I have to drink. Good all around.

Thankful Thursdays!

IT'S THURSDAY! Friday junior according to one of the girls in my office. Thank you for it being almost Friday Lord. I'm having a bit of a rough week with pregnancy related stuff.

Anyhow, this week I'm thankful for.......

• This little baby that is growing inside of me. It's now officially a fetus. Keep hanging in there little olive to plum sized baby!

• Deep breathing- Nausea is being a b**** this week. I'm not really having it bad compared to the "normal" pregnancy, but it's still no fun.
• Sweaters - It's getting to be the season for sweaters and I love it.
• New windows - my parents had new windows installed yesterday. They are very nice, it was strange to not hear the storm last night though.
• JJ - I love him. He is sweet and crazy and all boy. We spent some time reading stories last night. Heaven forbid he get under the bed covers to snuggle with his clothes on. :)
• That children don't come out 4 years old. I think Brad and I both need to grow into the parents of a four year old. If they came out with that much energy and spunk, we would be in sad shape.

I'm not feeling super great, so that's my list for today. I hope your day is leaving you feeling better then mine is. Enjoy it. What are you thankful for?

Maternity Mondays- 7 weeks

written 8-30-10

Ahh, not so bloated this week.

How far along: 7 weeks

Total weight gain: I didn't get on the scale today, maybe I'll update it later this week.

Maternity clothes: No but I did find a pair of jeans that I can no longer wear without using the hair band trick.

Sleep: Good for now. Still sleeping which ever way I want to. If I do wake up in the middle of the night I have to go to the restroom, but I don't think I wake up because I have to go.

Best moment of the week: The office figuring it out. I got called out for having a pickle that I didn't even eat. Brad and I had discussed that I wouldn't lie to the office if they called me out on it, but I was going to wait until at least after our first appointment. They were VERY excited for me though and it was fun to let them know.

Movement: none

Gender: This week I have been calling it a girl.

Labor signs: none

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Not having to worry about nausea.

What I'm looking forward to: Our first appointment on the 9th.

Weekly wisdom: Enjoy still mostly having your "normal body". It will go away soon enough.

Milestones: No big ones this week. Baby is about the size of a blueberry.

What's happening with the baby: Hands and feet are emerging from the developing arms and legs. Baby is still considered an embryo because it still has a small tail, which is an extension of the tailbone. Your baby has doubled in size since last week and now measures half an inch long, about the size of a blueberry. Your baby is getting eyelids to cover those eyes, which already have some color.

What's happening with you: Your uterus has doubled in size in the past five weeks, and eating may feel like a chore - or worse - thanks to morning sickness. You may need to pee more then usual, to, thanks to your increasing blood volume and the extra fluid being processed through your kidneys. (You have about 10 percent more blood now then you did before you were pregnant.)

How are you feeling: I'm feeling pretty good still. Naps are wonderful, but not always needed. Eating is a bit of a pain. Getting to full is a really bad idea. It makes for some really miserable time after eating. Nausea comes and goes but breast tenderness seems to be here to stay. Over all though, still feeling pretty good.

Maternity Monday - 6 weeks

written: 8-23-10

I think this pic was taken after I had eaten, so I'm more bloated then normal.

How far along: 6 weeks

Total weight gain: +0 so far according to our scale at home.

Maternity clothes: No bump or anything so no need for maternity clothes yet.

Sleep: I seem to be more fussy at night when I'm getting ready to sleep. I'm not falling asleep as easily as I used to. I can still sleep any way I want to.

Best moment of the week: Not baby related at all, but my sister getting a car.

Movement: Not yet. Gas doesn't count.

Gender: I have been feeling boy since we found out.

Labor signs: nope

Belly button in or out: In. It's pretty deep so I wonder if it will pop or not.

What I miss: Not having to worry about if I'm eating something that is on the no-no list

What I'm looking forward to: Our 1st appointment in 2 weeks and being able to let the cat out of the bag.

Weekly wisdom: Don't push yourself too much. You'll regret it later.

Milestones: We should have a heartbeat this week.

What is happening with the baby: Baby is now the size of a sweet pea! Growing like crazy, baby is starting to sprout eyes, ears, nose, cheeks, and chin. Those little hands and feet -- still webbed like paddles -- might wiggle by week's end, the heart is beating (almost twice as fast as your!), and blood is starting to circulate.

What is happening with you: You've probably stumbled on the truth by now: Thanks to your surging hormones, morning sickness can (and does) occur morning , noon, and night. As you feel yourself turning yet another shade of green, just try to remember it's for an amazing cause -- that rapidly growing baby inside your upset belly!

How are you feeling: It seems that the symptoms that I do have tend to come and go. I'm not having a problem with fatigue. I suspect that this will change soon. I get nauseous during the work week, no actual puking yet though. When I can go at my own pace on the weekends, I don't seem to have many issues with it. Breast tenderness comes and goes too. Although, I am noticing that they have a bit more movement then they used to.