I love me some Kama photos!

We had a maternity session with Kama on Wednesday. By Thursday night she had already posted a variety of photos on her blog. She is AMAZING!!!! I love her and her work. Here is what we have so far and we are going to get a disk of all the (decent) shots that were taken. So excited to see the rest.

Weekly Update - 36 weeks

How far along: 36 weeks

Weekly Update - 35 weeks

How far along: 35 weeks

Total weight gain: Not sure, I have an ultrasound and my first internal next monday. We'll know then.

Maternity clothes: yes. Once in a while a non-maternity top makes it into the mix, but now often now.

Sleep: I get up about 4 times a night to pee and seem to be sleeping just as lightly as before.

Best moment of the week: My boss was off work this week so it made for a laid back week at work.

Movement: Slowing down. Just big rolls and squirms now, not the kicking and punching like before.

Gender: Girl, we're going to have Paige double check on Monday though.

Labor signs: None

Belly button: Still half and half or flat.

What I miss: Sleeping anyway I want to.

What I'm looking forward to: Maternity photos with Brook on Saturday. Hopefully it will be a decent tempature. We are working with a girl who is just building her portfolio, so she hasn't done many maternity shots.

Weekly wisdom: Take you acid reducer at night before you go to bed or you will just have to find it in the middle of the night to take it.

Milestones: No big ones this week. My labor and delivery gown is finished so we just have to wash it and put it in my bag. Which I started packing.

What's happening with the baby:

What's happening with you:

How are you feeling: This has been a sleepy week. I feel like I'm catching up. We have the nursery all moved around and mostly organized. I have started doing some of her laundry. We have also settled on a name. Her name will be Paisley Allison. Hurray for choosing a name. Now we don't have to disagree on it anymore.

Weekly Update - 34 weeks

How far along: 34 weeks

Total weight gain: +25 lbs, Paige doesn't think I'll reach 30 lbs before this little squish comes out.

Maternity clothes: Maternity clothes or workout stretchy stuff

Sleep: Varies per day. Most of the time pretty good. I woke up at 5am one day this week and thought about not going back to sleep.

Best moment of the week: Baby shower, it was so nice to see everyone and get to chat and catch up. We also scored an amazing changing table on Wednesday, so that was pretty great too.

Movement: Tons, my whole belly jiggles around with her now. Much more shifting, much less kicking and sharp movements.

Gender: GIRL

Labor signs: None, our OB said I may not have Braxton- Hicks and if not, it's no big deal at all.

Belly button in or out: It depends on the day and how she's positioned inside. Most of the time the top of my belly button sticks out and the bottom is still tucked in.

What I miss: Sleeping 8 hours straight, I know that's not coming back for years though.

What I'm looking forward to: Her mural being finished so that we can get her room moved around and situated.

Weekly wisdom: Take it as it comes and love every minute of it. It goes by too quickly.

Milestones: No big milestones this week that I can think of.

What's happening with the baby:

What's happening with you:

How are you feeling: This week has been a good week. We got the first load of baby laundry washed, folded, and mostly put away. We also scored an amazing changing table for really cheap. Once it's in it's "home" we will load that bad boy up with stuff too. I started packing my hospital bag and we also sent in my pre-registration form for the hospital. We need to pick up a few things from Babies R Us or somewhere to make us feel ready for this baby. The big thing is a monitor. Other then that we can get by with what we have. My hospital gown is almost finished too. Mom and I are making one so I don't have to wear their ugly ones.

I'm starting to get uncomfortable. She isn't in my ribs much but she does like to push on my hips. It's a funny feeling. My feet still swell at least a little most days. I also have some days where I have mild nausea. It's nothing bad, just a little annoying. Overall, I'm still feeling pretty good, just tired.

This weekend is Shaina's shower and then I have a photo shoot next weekend and the weekend after. This little squish will be well documented. :)

Weekly Update - 33 weeks

How far along: 33 weeks

Total weight gained:

Maternity clothes: Love them. I haven't worn anything non-maternity this week. So I think I'm pretty much out of them.

Sleep: I'm getting up a lot during the night and recently had to put an extra pillow under my head to help with acid reflux. It's better now. Getting up about 4-5 times a night.

Best moment of the week: Two good days this week, my birthday and a mini shower at work. :) Oh and I got to have lunch with Brook and see her cute little baby bump.

Movement: Still a fair amount, especially after I eat and in the evening when I"m winding down in bed.

Gender: It's a girl and we may even have a name. We'll have to wait and see though.

Labor signs: None yet, Brook says I'll know when Braxton Hicks start, so they must not have started yet.

Belly button in or out: Flat today

What I miss: Not having a belly. :) I was looking at progression pictures and at 4 weeks...., man oh man, do I feel big now.

What I'm looking forward to: This weekend is my baby shower in Ohio. I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone and hanging out.

Weekly Wisdom: Extra pillows are your friend.

Milestones: She could probably function with out much help if she came now.

What's happening with baby:

What's happening with you:

How are you feeling: Feeling pretty good. I am drinking so much water. At night everytime I wake up I feel parched so I drink. I went through an entire water bottle last night and therefore had to get up a million times. I'm just starting to get uncomfortable. Friday was an uncomfortable day. She's been really active and right up close to my ribs but not in them. On Monday I went to the accupuncturist and had her treat me for heartburn. I got a take home accupressure needle on my ear which I take off on Saturday. I've never had one of those. Monday is an appointment so we will see how much weight I have gained and everything. Hypnobabies is going well. We fall asleep to the scripts most of the time but they say that's ok. Hopefully it's still doing its job and we'll be good to go. We recieved two cloth diapers and covers in the mail and practiced diapering a teddy bear. It's gonna take some practice but I'm sure we'll get it. :) All is good in our household. Brad is going to try to get the mural finished this weekend so I will get pictures up once that is done. Baby shower here we come!

Trip to Missouri

We headed to Missouri the weekend of the 18th. It was a long drive, but a very nice visit. And we got a load of stuff for this little bum. I feel much more comfortable about bringing a little one into this world now that we have somewhere to set her down. :)

THANKS! Amy and Allen!

Brad's mom also arranged a baby shower while we were there so we got even more stuff then we expected. So nice! The whole weekend was great.

Weekly update - 32 Weeks

How far along: 32 weeks

Total weight gain: 19 lbs

Maternity clothes: love them! Full panel pants make my day.

Sleep: I'm getting up a lot at night because everytime I get up I'm thirsty and so I drink water which causes me to have to get up again.

Best moment of the week: Hearing that we have a head down baby!

Movement: Lots. She is very active and I'm supposed to start doing movement counts. I don't see how I need to be doing these. It will take about 2 minutes to get those 10 movements in.

Gender: Girly, girl

Labor signs: Might be starting to have some Braxton Hicks. I'm not sure though.

Belly button in or out: Still half way

What I miss: Laying on my tummy. Not having to pee every 30 minutes.

What I'm looking forward to: Baby shower #2 next weekend. Getting her room in order.

Weekly wisdom: If your going to go on a road trip at 32 weeks take enough pillows to build your self a good nest or you will get a bruise from where you leg hangs off the seat.

Milestones: Other then weighing the most I have ever weighed in my life, I don't know that there are any big milestones. Mom says anytime after 32 weeks is a piece of cake so, yea for that.

What's happening with the baby:

What's happening with you:

How are you feeling: Road tripping at 32 weeks is rough. The riding in the car was uncomfortable but not unbearable. However, I think my fellow passengers at times were slightly annoyed with the number of times I had to stop for potty breaks. It was fun to see everyone and spend time with family we don't get to see often. The rest of the week brought some swelling and heartburn. It was a fairly uneventful week. I met the other OB in the practice we go to and she was nice. Brad wanted me to take a picture of her but I forgot. I would be ok with her delivering Squish, but I would prefer our Dr. The mural in Squishy room has been started and all of her stuff is in her room. The crib is on it's way to being finished and my shower is one weekish away. Overall, it's been a good week without too many complaints. I'm ready for spring weather so I don't have to tie my shoes anymore. :)

Weekly update - 31 Weeks

How far along: 31 Weeks


Total weight gain: 14 as of now. Doctors appt on the 23rd.


Maternity clothes: Mostly all of the time.


Sleep: Pretty good. Starting to have some hip pain at night. Maybe I'll add another pillow between my knees and that may help.


Best moment of the week: Heading to Missouri to see family.


Movement: Lots I have a video that I'll post soon.


Gender: Brad will definatly be out numbered by the girls in our house.


Labor signs: Not yet, thank goodness


Belly button in or out: In, well out, well, in and out.


What I miss: Being able to sit all day at work without my tail bone hurting.


What I'm looking forward to: Our trip to Missouri to see family.


Weekly wisdom: The closer you get to your due date the less ready you feel. Especially if you don't have anywhere to lay the baby is she were to come early. :)


Milestones: No big milestones from here until 35 weeks, I don't think.


What's happening with the baby:


What's happening with you:


How are you feeling: I forget because I'm doing week 31 at the end of week 32. I think I was feeling good. Antsy to go on vacation and hoping all the baby shower invites got out. Motivation to teach dance twice a week is getting less but it still energizes me a lot. So if I can get out of the house and get there, I'm good to go. We are working on the Hypnobabies stuff and it's helping me to feel more prepared already. Hoping I will be able to read on the 100 hour drive to Missouri.

Weekly Update- 29 weeks

How far along: 29 weeks

Total weight gain: 14 lbs

Maternity clothes: yes but still rocking some of my pre-maternity tops, I wonder when that will have to end?

Sleep: Getting up more at night but still sleeping well.

Best moment of the week: Possibly have a flipped baby!

Movement: it seems a little less then before, she must be running out of room. Tuesday she was moving ALL around and it was a different feeling then normal. I'm not sure why though.

Gender: girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In, but sometime half in and a little out.

What I miss: Not much, I'm kind of loving being pregnant.

What I'm looking forward to: Our trip out to visit Brads family Feb 18th-21st.

Weekly wisdom: Take your rings off before you have the "oh no, they are never coming off" scare.

Milestones:only really, 3rd trimester.

What's happening with the baby: not doing it

What's happening with you: not doing it.

How are you feeling: Feeling really good. We had a Dr.'s appt on Monday and got to see the baby girl. My placenta has moved out of the way and as long as she flips herself around we will be good for a normal delivery. She's currently hanging out in the Frank Breech position. If she doesn't flip by 36 weeks we get to "talk about our options". We will have an ultrasound that day to check her position, so we get to see her again. I'm up 5 more lbs so maybe, just maybe, Brad will quit worrying about that. From here on out I get seen every two weeks. The nursery is coming along and should be finished this weekend. Then we just wait until we get stuff to put in it. We have our hospital tour on Sunday before the Super Bowl. I'll be nice for both of us to see where we will be delivering. I already know where we will be hanging out afterwards pretty well.

I can't believe that we only have about 10 weeks left! It seems so short now.

Weekly update - 28 weeks

*Note* How do you like those jelly bracelets? One of my dancers gave them to me. :)



How far along: 28 weeks

Total weight gain: I'll find out on Monday.

Maternity clothes:

Sleep: I've been needing lots of it this week. I seem to have hit a wall.

Best moment of the week: All the nursery prep!

Movement:

Gender: Girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Sleeping through the night.

What I'm looking for ward to: Seeing baby girl on Monday when we check my placenta.

Weekly wisdom: Don't think your out in the clear if you make through your first trimester without many "symptoms".

Milestones: The nursery is the major project this week. The new carpet is being installed this Friday.

What's happening with the baby: Don't feel like doing these today.

What's happening with you: Don't feel like it.

How are you feeling: This week is the beginning of the third trimester. I feel really tired this week and could be sleeping most of the time. I didn't have this fatigue in the first trimester and I hope it's just my body fighting off something and I'll be back to normal anytime. However, right now, sign me up for naptime. That's the biggest thing for this week.

Weekly Update- 26 weeks

How far along: 26 weeks

Total weight gain: don't know

Maternity clothes: mostly

Sleep: loving it. This week has been a sleepy week. I went to bed early most nights.

Best moment of the week: Erin talking to the baby and getting kicked in the face. And then singing to her and having her dance all around in my belly.

Movement: Lots. She's working her way up towards my ribs.

Gender: Girly girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: Still in. Not for long though.

What I miss: Nothing really other then my regular clothes.

What I'm looking forward to: A long weekend. Getting things moved out of what will be her room.

Weekly wisdom: Keep healthy snacks at work or you'll snack on crap.

Milestones: We have open eyes and "breathing" starting.

What's happening with the baby: Ear network is becoming more sensitive and she may be able to hear both of us when we are talking to each other. She is breathing small amounts of amniotic fluid to help develop her lungs. She weighs about 1 and 2/3 lbs and is about 14 inches from head to heel (about the length of an English hothouse cucumber).

What's happening with you: Are you rushing around trying to get to childbirth classes and prepare your baby's room while still taking care of all your other daily tasks? Make sure that you also continue to eat well and get plenty of rest. Around this time, your blood pressure may be increasing slightly, although it's probably still lower than it was before you got pregnant. (Typically, blood pressure falls toward the end of the first trimester, and it tends to reach a low at about 22 to 24 weeks.)

Preeclampsia — a serious disorder characterized by high blood pressure and protein in your urine — most often shows up after 37 weeks, but it can happen earlier so it's important to be aware of the warning signs of this condition. Call your caregiver if you have swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, more than slight swelling of your hands, excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, or rapid weight gain (more than 4 pounds in a week). With more severe preeclampsia, you may experience other symptoms. Let your caregiver know immediately if you have a severe or persistent headache, vision changes (including double or blurred vision, seeing spots or flashing lights, sensitivity to light, or temporary loss of vision), intense pain or tenderness in your upper abdomen, or vomiting.

If your lower back seems a little achy lately, you can thank both your growing uterus — which shifts your center of gravity, stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, and may be pressing on a nerve — as well as hormonal changes that loosen your joints and ligaments. Plus, the extra weight you're carrying means more work for your muscles and increased stress on your joints, which is why you may feel worse at the end of the day. Walking, standing, or sitting for long periods, as well as bending and lifting can all put a strain on your back. A warm bath or hot compress might bring relief. (Some women, though, find cool compresses more comforting.) Try to maintain good posture during the day, avoid activities that require bending and twisting at the same time, take frequent breaks when sitting or standing, and sleep on your side with one or both knees bent with a pillow between your legs, using another pillow (or wedge) to support your abdomen.

How are you feeling: Sunday Brad and I went with Mom and Dad to the RV show at the fairgrounds. It was quite a bit of walking and I didn't drink enough water so I had some funny stuff towards the end of the time we were there with my belly. It may have been Braxton-Hicks contractions. They quickly subsided once I got to the car, chilled a bit and drank some water after we got home. This week was the first week I had to deal with uncomfortable ribs. Wednesday I felt like I had a belt or something around my ribcage and I couldn't take a full breath. It lasted about two hours and I haven't felt it again since. I'm sure it will be back though. This week we did lots of playing music and singing for the baby. She really likes it and moves all around. I'm also trying to tap on my belly when music is playing. Hopefully that will help develop her sense of rhythm. Please Lord. Friday evening we went out to dinner for Erin's birthday and got to see her in-laws. That's always a good time. We have had a time choosing the bedding. It's almost as hard as choosing a name for this little kid. Hopefully we (Brad) won't change his mind anymore. Overall, still feeling really good. A little bit more tired but I still have lots of energy and enjoying most of my normal activities without many aches and pains.

Weelky Update - 25 weeks

How far along: 25 weeks

Total weight gain: unknown. Next Dr's appointment on the 31st

Maternity clothes: I am astonished each time I can put on a pair of non maternity pants. :)

Sleep: Still really good.

Best moment of the week: I don't remember, that's what I get for being late on this one.

Gender: Girl

Labor signs: None

Belly button in or out: In

What I miss: Not a whole lot. Being able to read more then a couple pages before I fall asleep.

What I'm looking forward to: Dr.'s appointment, Love hearing that heartbeat.

Weekly wisdom: None today.

Milestones: No big ones this week. Started looking into crib bedding.

What's happening with the baby: Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight - a pound and a half (not much more then an average rutabaga, everyone has held one of those right?), but she is beginning to add some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she'll start looking more and more like a new born. She is also growing more hair, if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

What's happening with you: You and baby are both growing hair. The hair that you would normally shed is sticking around longer than usual, thanks to hormonal changes. Enjoy it while you can, the extra hair will fall out after you give birth. You may also notice that you aren't as graceful as before. It's time for your glucose screening. Your OB will also draw a second tube of blood to test for anemia. If it shows that you have anemia you'll probably be put on an iron supplement.

How are you feeling: Two weeks after, when I'm filling this week out, I'm feeling good. I can't remember how I was feeling right after the new year.

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 - 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. :)

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.

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.