2 Week Post Pregnancy Poll!

How far along? 2 weeks and 1 day since my C-Section
Total weight gain/loss: The day I delivered Macy I topped the scales with a 57 lbs weight gain.....whoops! I am happy to report that I am now down 45 lbs with only 15 lbs to drop!
Maternity Clothes? Yep, I am still wearing my maternity pants. I tried to squeeze my fat butt into some of my old jeans and I was unsuccessful.
Stretch Marks: Thank goodness I only I have the stretch marks on my hips that I developed early on in my pregnancy. All and all I am pleased that I am not covered in stretch marks after my 57 lbs weight gain.
Sleep: For the most part Macy does ok during the night (or at least she has over the last 4 nights.....knock on wood). I don't mind getting up with her during the night but I do wonder what it's like to go a whole 8 hours with uninterrupted sleep!
Best moment this week: Every moment I spend with Miss Macy. Already I can see developmental changes in her!
Food Cravings: Well, I have cut out junk food and I mostly eat Special K because it's quick and not bad for you
Gender: Still in shock that I had a baby girl!
Belly Button in or out? It's in but right now my belly has the consistency of a bowl of mashed potatoes
What I miss: Being able to leave my house for more than an hour at a time without planning when I will feed Macy next
Weekly Wisdom: Motherhood is so much different that I expected. I am more patient than I thought I would be, when she cries I want to cry with her because I hate that she is upset, changing dirty diapers is REALLY not that bad, breast feeding is harder than I thought, I miss her when I am more than 5 minutes away from her (even when I am taking a shower!) and I love her more than I ever imagined.

Update on Macy

Yesterday was Macy's two week doctors appointment. Everything is going great with my baby girl except she is not gaining weight as quickly as the doctor would like. Her birth weight was 8 lbs 4 oz and yesterday she weighed in at 7 lbs 12 oz (last week she was down to 7 lbs 3 oz). Apparently, I am feeding Macy too much which is causing her not to gain adequate weight. Sounds backwards, right??! Well, Macy is basically using me as a human pacifier (I am not joking when I say she wants to feed all the time!) and is wasting too many calories by sucking. Since she is nursing non stop, my body doesn't have time to produce enough milk for her which explains her slow weight gain. The doctor told me to let her cry and only feed her every two to three hours and not on demand like I was. Sounds simple, but I am having the hardest time letting her cry. It breaks my heart to see her fussing. She makes the sadest little faces that just melts my heart! Thankfully I have Jason to help keep me strong. I have to bring Macy back to the doctors next week to weigh in. If she hasn't gained an acceptable amount of weight by then the doctor suggested I supplement formula at least once a day.

I will be sure to have an update next week on Miss Macy's weight gain!

...And Baby Macy Ryan Meier Makes 3!!

It's been a busy two weeks and unfortunately I have neglected updating my blog. Since my last post I am happy to report that Jason and I have welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world......and things didn't go as I originally planned! Macy Ryan Meier came into this world on December 8, 2009 at 4:48 pm weighing 8 lbs 4 oz and she was 19 inches long. Here is a breakdown of events over the last two weeks:

December 3 - Jason and I meet with Dr. Shoemaker and he informed me that my cervix was progressing and the baby was in head down. He decided that on Monday December 7th I would meet with him again and I would be induced that night. He promised me that I would have a baby by Tuesday December 8 which was wonderful news to us! Jason and I immediately called our parents and they booked their airline tickets out to Texas for the birth of the baby. All I had to do was wait and complete my last preparations for the baby. The weekend was surreal knowing that it would be our last weekend of peace for some time.

December 7 - I had a doctors appointment at 2:30 so I spent the day packing our hospital bag of all the essentials. I also spent the morning remembering my coping techniques that I learned in Lamaze class. I made sure I remained calm and didn't freak myself out about pushing a baby out my crotch later that day. Jason and I headed up to Corpus a little early so we could get something to eat before I would be admitted into the hospital. I was anxious and nervous about what the day had in store for me and I even cried a little on the way to my doctors appointment.

Jason and I meet with Dr. Shoemaker for my examination and sadly I hadn't progressed any since my last appointment and the baby hadn't dropped as low as he would have liked. He told me he wanted to meet with me the following Monday which was December 14 (and both of our parents would have already been back in FL!) to discuss induction then. I was reluctant to speak up but I reminded him of his promise that I would have a baby no later than December 8th and based on that information our parents bought plane tickets. He decided to send me for a growth ultrasound since they previously had been concerned about the size of the baby. It was neat to see my baby for one last time. Once the doctor received the results of the ultrasound he was shocked at how big the baby was measuring......9.5 lbs! After much discussion with the doctor, we decided that a C-Section was the only way to go. I was not thrilled with the idea of a C-Section but I scheduled my appointment for 4 PM on Tuesday December 8th.

On the car ride home from the hospital I cried a little. I was really bummed about having to have a C-Section. I didn't want the long recovery time and plus I was just scared of surgery!

December 8th - I woke up early that day and enjoyed a low key morning with my parents while Jason slept. Before I knew it it was time for me to start getting ready for my big day at the hospital. I had to be at the hospital by 1 PM to get registered and get prepped for surgery. Finally around 4:30 they wheeled be back to surgery. I was given a spinal tab that numbed me from the waist down and some other drug that I don't recall the name of. The anesthesiologist referred to it as "the happy drug" which is exactly what it was. As soon as that drug hit my system I could feel it. I immediately wanted to sleep and I think my eyes rolled back in my head a few times. Unfortunately, the drug took away my ability process my emotions. I had envisioned for months that when I heard "It's a boy/girl" would be the greatest moment of my life but instead I was too much in a daze to process the moment. I did manage to stay alert when they pulled the baby out. Jason got a great picture of me seeing the baby for the first time although I will admit I vaguely remember the moment.

After the baby was born she was whisked up to the nursery and Jason stayed with her the whole time. I was wheeled back to recovery for about an hour or so. This is when my memory really began to fail me. At some point I was taken to my room and was able to hold my baby for the first time. I am really disappointed that I don't remember holding her at all that night. I do know that I did become sick from the pain meds and I threw up....which was not nice considering I just had major surgery a few hours before! Poor Jason, he had to hold the bucket while I threw up!

The first few days in the hospital I was sore, more so than I was prepared for. There were a few moments that I thought I would never have another child because the pain was too much. The first time I got up to walk were the most painful steps of my life! Both my mom and Jason were a huge help to me, the even helped me to the restroom and to the shower. I never thought that my mom would be bathing me at the age of 28! The nurses who took care of me were also great. They really encouraged me to get out of bed and walk around, which made my recovery so much easier. I was really shocked at how well I healed and how quickly I felt like my old self after surgery and I quickly forgot the pain.

Macy and I were discharged late on Friday December 11. Lucky for me, my parents were still in town so it helped to have them around while we made the transition to a family at home.

Here are some pics of the last two weeks....

Me getting ready for surgery:

Me seeing Macy for the first time:

Macy's first picture:

Macy leaving the hospital:

Please say a prayer for my cervix....

In about 30 minutes I am heading to the doctors for my 39 week appointment. Please send your thoughts and prayers to my cervix so I am not at 0 cm and I can meet my baby!! I am wishing and hoping that I have made some progress since last week. However, I don't think that will be the case......I haven't felt any contractions or cramps yet.

I thought about calling the cops......

Last night I kept waking up to the sound of motorcycles. The noise went on until 2:00 AM and lasted for a few hours. My neighbor has a Harley Davidson and I thought for sure he was having a motorcycle party. I think I called him every curse word in the book. I was totally annoyed that A) he would have a party on Sunday night and B) they would be so inconsiderate to run their motorcycles at 2:00 in the morning. DIDN'T THEY KNOW I WAS 9 MONTHS PREGNANT??! After a few hours of trying to sleep through the noise I was ready to call the cops. Thankfully I was too lazy to get up and get my cell phone and I drifted back off to sleep. It was then that I noticed that wasn't motorcycle engines I was hearing.......that was ME snoring. I think even alone and in the dark my face turned bright red out of embarrassment. Thankfully I realized where the noise was coming from before I called the cops on myself. I would have really felt silly then!

Nursery Update

We are about 95% done with the nursery (good thing since the baby might be here next week!!). We have a few more things to finish up. We need to buy new closet doors since they are currently BRIGHT red (thanks to the previous owners - yuck). Hopefully we will be able to replace them this upcoming week......and they will be white! I also have some shelves that I would like to hang on the wall above the chair.

Anyway, here are some pictures I have taken of the nursery....

This is Exactly How I Feel

A friend of mine from an internet forum that I frequent sent me a post about her feelings she had the day before she was to be induced. I couldn't have said it any better myself, she has completely captured my emotions right now. While I am super excited to have this baby I am really sad to think I might not be pregnant this time next week. In actuality, I am shocked at how I feel. The last few weeks I thought I was ready to move on to the next stage and have this baby. Just last night I was telling Jason that I can't wait until I go into labor. But now that reality is sinking in I am having second thoughts. Yes, I can't be pregnant for the rest of my life but I did find comfort in thinking I had three weeks left in my pregnancy.

Anyway, enjoy this post from my friend Kate's blog. It is a letter she wrote to her daughter the day before being induced:

"Dear Lily,

You would think after nine months of carrying you, I'd be more prepared for this day. Well, I'm not. I'm still in a bit of disbelief that by this time tomorrow, I will probably be holding you in my arms instead of my belly. I think I'm just not ready to let you go yet.

In a lot of ways, though, I couldn't be more prepared. Your daddy and I have been busy these last few months getting your nursery ready, putting together things like swings and strollers for you, making arrangements for your daycare and your health care. All all of that is done, Lily.

I can't tell you how excited we are to meet you --to see your face for the very first time. I can't wait to hold your tiny hand for the first time or to feel your soft newborn skin for the very first time. Right now I can only imagine the little girl you're going to be. I don't know if you'll be easygoing like your dad or crazy anxious like your mom, but I do know you're going to be your very own little person, and I'm going to love watching every minute of it.

But for now, I really love having you right where you are. It hasn't always been easy to be pregnant, but those difficult moments are lost among the amazing ones. I love carrying you with me everywhere, knowing you're always here with me. I don't know, I guess I love not having to share you with anybody else right now. Right now it's just you and me.

But I know that it couldn't last forever. And I know we're about to move on the the best part. But I just wanted you to know how much I loved this time that we've had together.

See you very soon, baby girl.

Love,
Mama"

After reading this post, I was in tears. This is exactly how I feel. I was beginning to feel a little guilty because I afraid I wasn't excited as I should be. Luckily, I have a week to prepare for the concept of having a baby outside the womb (and a week to enjoy the remainder of my pregnancy)!

37 Week Doctors Appointment

I just got back from my 37 week doctors appointment (well, 36 weeks and 5 days) and they informed me they may want to induce me at 38 weeks if my cervix is ready. The doctor did say that they definitely won't let me go past my due date. Apparently, the baby is measuring big and it might be best to help move things along.

Stupid me didn't realize that 38 weeks is next week! It wasn't until I got in the car to call my mom that she reminded me I am 37 weeks pregnant right now.......which means next week I will be 38 weeks pregnant. That news flash hit me like a brick wall! Holy crap, I could have a baby as early as next week!! I don't want to get my hopes up, but it would be perfect timing to have the baby next week when both my parents and Jason's parents are in town for Thanksgiving.

I also spoke with my doctor regarding my birth plan. I told her I am not 100% sure I want an epidural. I want to keep an open mind and prepare myself for a natural child birth. I figure that way I will be mentally prepared if God forbid the epidural doesn't work or I am too far along in my labor to receive one. My doctor did mention that the epidurals administered at my hospital are given in small doses so I will have the ability to respond to what my body is telling me (i.e. - PUSH!!).

I will know more at my next appointment which is next Wednesday.........HOLY CRAP!!

Again.....I am a Crazy First Time Mom!

Once again I called my OB to come in for an unscheduled visit yesterday. This time I was concerned about my swelling (which hasn't let up since week 24 in my pregnancy), my border line high blood pressure reading of 135/80 and my dull headache. I have read up on the internet that these are all symptoms of preeclampsia. Of course, reading up on any disorder will change a normal, level headed person into a hypochondriac, which is exactly what happened to me. Even though my next doctors appointment was two days later I kept thinking of the horror stories people have told me about what can go wrong during pregnancy.

Luckily, my doctor was very accommodating and had me come it right away. After being checked out nothing was wrong with me. My blood pressure was back down to a normal reading of 108 over some other number that I have since forgotten. I felt a little silly about freaking out over my high reading I got at Wal-mart but she assured me those machines are notorious for giving false readings......that made me feel a little less crazy!

The good news is the baby has dropped and is ready in position. I also got to hear the heartbeat which was 144 beats per minute.

I always feel like a bit of a drama queen when I call or come in for a unscheduled appointment. I have a fear that my doctor's office thinks I mistake their phone number for the complaint hot line. Honestly, I don't mind being uncomfortable just as long as the baby is healthy and so am I. I think I apologized to my doctor 100 times in the 7 minute visit I had with her!

Anyway, I will leave you with a picture of my swollen ankle. I have also included a picture of me with skinny ankles to prove that I am not a freak of nature! I am REALLY embarrassed to post this on my blog, but I want to document the good, the bad and the ugly of my pregnancy. I should also apologize for my ugly toes.....I haven't gotten a pedicure is quite some time. I am not about to put my feet and ankles on display in public! Maybe one day Little Baby Jason will have a great appreciation of me! And yes, those are fat rolls on my toes

I missed my last Lamaze class :(

I had signed up for various child birthing classes and one of which was a Lamaze class that took place every Sunday for 4 weeks. Jason was not super excited about going but I LOVED it!! I really think they should rename the class to "Massage/Watch a Birth Video" class!! I could have lived without the videos but the massages were great! I am seriously trying to plot a way that Jason and I can spend every Sunday at Lamaze class - it was that relaxing! Jason and I were faithful attendees until this last weekend. I think with the excitement of my baby shower and my mom in town, Lamaze class completely slipped my mind!! I felt super guilty about not going afterwards. On Monday, I ran into one of my classmates while shopping at Babies R' Us and she let me know I didn't miss much which made me feel a little better.

I also attended a Breast Feeding class which I would recommend to any new mother to be. Breast Feeding is a more work than I originally thought and I feel better off for attending the class. I decided that Jason didn't have to attend this class with me since it mostly would be only women but I was wrong! I was the only person there who didn't have their husband or boyfriends with them, which was completely shocking to me!!

The last class we signed up for was the Hospital Tour. That class would have been great but I had to stand for two hours straight......there weren't enough chairs. I spent most of my time concentrating on not passing out and not on what the tour guide had to say. But the class was completely worth it when we visited the nursery! It melted my heart to see all the brand spanking new babies!!

36 Week Poll!

How far along? 36 weeks and 3 days. 25 more days to go!

Total weight gain/loss: I am up 40 lbs :(

Maternity Clothes? This weekend I broke down and bought some nursing bras. Other than that, I refuse to waste any more of my money on maternity clothes. I am saving up to spend my money on new skinny girl clothes once I drop the weight!

Stretch Marks: Well, I am afraid to see myself in front of a full length mirror these days so I haven't done a stretch mark inspection in quite some time. I am hoping that I haven't developed anynew stretch marks this week

Sleep: Not so good these days. I am typically a light sleeper and I have now developed a snoring problem. I wake myself up every few minutes when I start to snore.

Best moment this week: This past week was a GREAT week for me! My mom came out to visit, I had a baby shower and we are 99% done with the baby's room!

Food Cravings: Mac n' Cheese

Gender: I am thinking a boy this week

Labor signs: No, I wish! I have Braxton Hicks contractions but I don't count those as labor signs

Belly Button in or out? Neither, it's flat

What I miss: Being 40 lbs lighter! I also miss quality sleep

Weekly Wisdom: Don't let yourself feel too miserable......having a baby is a blessing from God. Sometimes I have to tell myself this three or four times in a row in hopes I can brainwash myself into believing it ;)

I will leave you with a picture of my belly I took last week at my desk. I should note that I am not a good self photographer......but it's the only picture I took that wasn't a boob shot!

I had my Baby Shower this past Sunday!

This past Sunday was a GREAT day! Not only was my mom in town visiting but I also had a baby shower. It was thrown by my wonderful friends Nubia, Stephanie and Sara and they did a GREAT job! It was held at one of the ballrooms at Texas A&M University - Kingsville. The menu was Thanksgiving inspired so we had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and corn. I couldn't have asked for anything better! I am very thankful to have such great friends that came to my shower!

We spent the afternoon playing games and telling funny stories (mostly about my husband). I brought my new camera but unfortunately, I did not check the batteries before leaving the house and it was completely dead. Thankfully Nubia had her camera so I will be sure to post pics when she emails them to me. I will be interested in seeing the pictures. Hopefully I don't look like too much like a drag queen!

Exactly 1 month to go!

Today is November 12 and the baby's estimated due date is December 12......wow, time has flown by! I can't believe that I am four weeks out from my due date. It seems like last week I just found out I was pregnant. I am confident we are ready for the baby (well, as ready as we will ever be). We have bought all the essential items for the baby including a breast pump, a car seat, a crib, a pack n' play and some clothes. After today I think I will officially be done with the baby's room! I just need to paint the bead board that we had professionally installed (I finally got Jason to cave and hire help!).

As anxious as I am to meet the baby part of me is already missing being pregnant. I know it sounds crazy, as most women complain non-stop while being pregnant. Yes, I am uncomfortable with my swelling, weight gain and frequent stops at the bathroom but knowing that our baby is safe and sound in my body gives me a sense of contentment. As long as the both the baby and I are healthy then I feel I have no reason to complain.

I will miss feeling the baby move in my belly. It never fails, I could be completely annoyed by someone at work or from a driver who cut me off but as soon as I feel the baby wiggle a sense of calmness comes over me. It's like a gentle reminder not to sweat the small stuff!

35 Week Poll

How far along? 35 weeks and 2 days. Only 33 days to go.....close to one month left. Yikes!
Total weight gain/loss: I would really like to say "no comment" but I will be honest and say 38 lbs. I have been eating HORRIBLY lately!
Maternity clothes? Ugh, I hate maternity clothes. One day (hopefully soon!) I will be able to wear my skinny girl pants again.
Stretch Marks: Surprisingly, with my weight gain I haven't gotten any new stretch marks :)
Sleep: Much, much better these days!
Best moment this week: Hearing the baby's heartbeat at 156 bpm. Also, feeling the baby move never gets old. It always brings a smile to my face.
Food cravings: French toast.......yuuuummmm
Gender: I still really have no idea. Sometimes I am convinced it's a boy and other times I think I am having a girl
Labor Signs: Just Braxton Hicks contractions
Button in or out? In
What I miss: Having normal size feet and ankles
Weekly Wisdom: Enjoy the remainder of the pregnancy and keep a positive outlook. Even though I am not comfortable, misery is half of what I make of it!

32 Week Doctor's Appointment

I just got back from my doctor's appointment and I am happy to report that everything is going well! Thankfully my swelling has been better the last few days so the doctor is no longer concerned about my water retention. However, I have developed carpal tunnel in my wrists and fingers which he informed me will only get worse from here on out. The good news is that my carpal tunnel will subside a few weeks after my pregnancy is over......or at least it should. I'm relieved that everything is on track and my discomfort will only be temporary.

The baby is progressing normally and had a steady heartbeat at 149 BPM. During my exam, the doctor had me place my hand on my lower abdomen and press down. I was relieved to know that the hard thing I was pressing on was the baby's head! I asked about the odds of the baby flipping at this point in my pregnancy and the doctor informed me that it's unlikely the baby will be breech or transverse. Yay! One less obstacle to a vaginal childbirth! I have had nightmares about having a c-section (well, to be fair I have also had nightmares about a vaginal delivery but the recovery time is much less!). Fingers crossed that 4 lb. Baby Jason stays head down!

The Baby has a 66.6% Chance of having Brown Eyes

According to this website, http://museum.thetech.org/ugenetics/eyeCalc/eyecalculator.html, the baby has a 66.6% chance of having brown eyes, a 20% chance of having blue eyes and a 13.3% chance of having green eyes. Fingers crossed that the baby is not "blessed" with my boring, dominant gene, brown eyes!

Although, this calculator could be a load of crap too. My parents, who both have brown eyes, have a son (my brother) who has blue eyes. The odds of that happening were 9%. So my baby's 33.3% chance of having blue or green eyes is looking much better!

32 Week Poll!

How far along? 32 weeks and 4 days. Only 52 days!
Total weight gain/loss: Up 31 lbs. But once the baby is born I can just divide my weight by two, right?
Maternity clothes? I am sooo sick of wearing the same three outfits over and over
Stretch Marks: Still on my right hip. Knock on wood I don't develop any more!
Sleep: Good, considering I am 8 months pregnant
Best moment this week: Getting the baby's car seat. Thanks mom!
Food cravings: Still Dr. Pepper
Gender: Hmmm, today I think it's a girl?
Labor Signs: Nope
Button in or out? In for now
What I miss: Having a bigger wardrobe
Weekly Wisdom: Be thankful that I am healthy and so is the baby

31 Week Poll!

How far along? 31 weeks and 4 days. 59 more days!
Total weight gain/loss: Up 29 lbs....I am sad to say I had another bad week when it comes to weight gain :(
Maternity clothes? I hate my maternity clothes
Stretch Marks: Just on my right hip and a few on my butt
Sleep: I miss normal people sleep. It will be years before I know what that feels like
Best moment this week: Feeling my first round of hiccups from the baby. It was a weird sensation to feel them in my butt! I should view that as a good sign that the baby is head down!
Food cravings: Anything that has sugar (which explains my weight gain)
Gender: Oh gosh, I can't make up my mind now.
Labor Signs: No, hopefully I have a while before I have any
Button in or out? In, although I don't think for much longer
What I miss: Normal size feet and ankles
Weekly Wisdom: I will appreciate my non-pregnant body so much more after the baby is here! I hate to complain but I am starting to get pretty uncomfortable these days!

I can't believe I am sad!

I just received a call from my Doctor's office wanting to cancel my appointment tomorrow due to an emergency. Of course I agreed (mostly because I had another appointment scheduled on October 21) but now I find myself sad that I won't get an update on the baby's progress. I was really looking forward to going to the doctor's! I can't believe how this pregnancy has turned me into a completely different person. I use to loathe the doctor and would look for any excuse to avoid going, especially the girl doctor. Now I have a cancellation handed to me and I'm upset? Weird......

Oh well, I guess I will have to wait one more week until I go to the doctor. Let the countdown begin!!

Did we bite off more than we can chew?!

This weekend Jason and I headed to Lowes to purchase the supplies needed to install the bead board and crown molding in the baby's room. I knew the project would be time consuming but I didn't realize what a PITA it would be! FYI - it is much harder than it looks!!

Right now we have up three four foot panels of bead board up and one piece of crown molding incorrectly cut. If it weren't for the liquid nails we used to install the bead board I would be tempted to throw in the towel and forgo the bead board idea. However, once we applied the liquid nails to the wall we were committed to finishing the project! I'm afraid that once everything is said and done the bead board will look like Jason and I installed it ourselves......aka - GHETTO. I find myself wondering what were we thinking??! It's obvious that Jason and I shouldn't quit our day jobs and become carpenters! I'm trying to talk Jason into hiring someone to complete our mess, I mean project, but he is not on board with that idea. While it's not impossible to install bead board or crown molding yourself, it is one huge headache that I rather someone else deal with. Plus I am not much help seven and a half months pregnant. Ahh, I will be relieved once we are complete with the nursery!

Anyway, here are some pics of the nursery before the bead board and crown molding. Please don't mind the painters tape that is still up or the lack of a mattress in the crib. I am happy to say we have since taken down the tape and purchased a mattress! Also, I have purchased another lamp shade for the lamp (I hated the one that came with the lamp) and I plan on painting the pedestal table white. I will be sure to post pics of the nursery after the bead board and crown molding is installed........but at the rate we are going that might be in a few years! I do promise that once everything is said and done the room will look much better than it does in these pics!

Baby's First Halloween!

Unfortunately, I will have to wait a whole year before I can indulge in picking out a teeny tiny Halloween costume for the baby. But that isn't stopping me from looking early!! I came across some of the cutest baby costumes. I will definitely have to keep them in mind for next year!

This costume is adorable! I think it is my favorite of the four. It can be purchased from SpiritHalloween.com for $39.99
I thought this costume was cute but I have a feeling that next year, my 10 month old child will refuse to wear anything that swaddles him/her! That's too bad because my little dog has a hot dog suit as well.......they could be twins! It can be purchased at Target.com for $16.99 (which is also where I purchased my dog's hot dog suit).

I love this costume! However, if I have a little boy the bunny suit might not be gender appropriate. It can be purchased for $44.60 at 1PartySuppliesandFavors.com

This costume can be purchased at Nordstrom.com for $49.99. This costume reminds me of a trip I took to New York City when I was a kid. My mom refused to buy me a bubble bee suit from Macy's that I thought I just had to have. I am still upset to this day you never bought me the bubble bee suit Mom!!

I am soooo looking forward to Halloween shopping next year!! I am going to enjoy dressing my child up like a Barbie Doll before they develop their independence and no longer let me pick their outfit. But then again, if our kid is anything like my husband, I have a feeling the baby will refuse to go along with the plan and end up naked!

30 Week Poll!

How far along? 30 weeks and 4 days. 66 more days to go!!
Total weight gain/loss: Up 26 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yes, and I am tired of them already!
Stretch Marks: On my right hip and I think I am starting get get some more on my butt :(
Sleep: Better this week
Best moment this week: Finding good deals on baby items at Ross. However, we still have a TON of stuff to buy! Also, I heard the baby's heartbeat at 150 beats per minute.
Food cravings: I REALLY want a pumpkin muffin from Panera. Sadly, there are no Panera's any where in South Texas
Gender: I still think it's a girl
Labor Signs: Thankfully no!
Button in or out? In
What I miss: My range of motion. I feel like an elderly woman!
Weekly Wisdom: I know without a doubt I will do what is best for the baby. Nothing else will come before the baby's best interest.

Wow, Time Flies!

As of today it has officially been 2 years, 2 weeks and 3 days since Jason and I got married!! I was looking back at some of our wedding pictures and I can't help but feel a little sad. At the risk of sounding superficial, I am afraid that I will never have a body that resembles my old self!




But seeing this pictures does make me happy. September 15, 2009 was the happiest day of my life, it could have been any more perfect!

Things I didn't know prior to pregnancy!

There are many things that have occurred over the course of this pregnancy that I was unaware would happen 7.5 months ago. Here's a list of a few things that pop into my head:

• I didn't know my ankles and feet would swell to a freakish size. At this point, it maybe more profitable to quit my job and tour with the circus. I never thought I would see the day where my toes have fat rolls. I am waiting for stretch marks to appear on my feet.....seriously
• I didn't know that I would grow hair everywhere on my body. If only I could transfer my special hair growing powers to my husband, then he might have a full head of hair.
• I didn't know that people would lose all tact when commenting on my pregnancy. I thought I was going to hurt the guy behind me at Walmart who insisted I needed a second opinion because he was sure I was having triplets. At that point I was only 24 weeks into my pregnancy. I hope I don't run into him at week 39.
• I didn't know I could love someone so much who I never met. This child has changed me into a better person but also a more insecure person. At night, I have nightmares that I won't be a good mother.
• I didn't know that I could be such a planner. My carefree (aka irresponsible) life has now been replaced by lists and budgets. I lie awake in bed wondering how we are going to pay for our child's college. Oh my God, I have turned into my parents (well maybe not my mom regarding the budget part!).
• I didn't know I could cry over a commercial. I have lost it a time or two on a commercial that has featured a new born baby.
• I didn't know I would have a stuffy nose my whole pregnancy. I blow my nose at least 5 times a day.
• I didn't know that I would be so content gaining 25 lbs in 7.5 months. I am proud to gain the weight if that means the baby is healthy. However, under normal circumstances I would totally be freaking out and hitting the treadmill.
• I didn't know that "nesting" would start so early in pregnancy. I keep telling myself the baby will not inspect the closets or the dust in the cabinets upon his/her arrival. But I have become adamant that everything be just right for when we bring the baby home.
• I didn't know that buying baby products could be so overwhelming! Wow, it's amazing how many options of bottles, breast pumps, wipe warmers, etc. there are out there.
• I didn't know how unaware of my belly I would be. I notice when I open the refrigerator that my belly gets in the way (hmmm, maybe that is a sign I should close the door!). Also, a few times I have tried to squeeze in between two people and I end up bumping off one person and into the other like a ping pong ball.......so much for grace!

This pregnancy has opened my eyes to a completely different viewpoint on life than I had 7.5 months ago. It will be interesting to see how much my viewpoint changes over the upcoming 7.5 months!! I bet it will be a REAL eye opening experience!!

29 Week Poll!

How far along? 29 weeks and 4 days. Only 73 more days!!
Total weight gain/loss: I am up 25 lbs. Oops, I ate a TON of sweets last week, including 75% of Jason's birthday cake
Maternity clothes? Ugh, I have very few clothes that fit me anymore. I refuse to buy anymore maternity clothes.........be prepared to see me in the same 3 outfits!!
Stretch marks? Still just on my right hip
Sleep: Not too good these days.
Best moment this week: Finding out I don't have gestational diabetes!
Food cravings: Still Dr. Pepper
Gender: This week I am thinking it's a girl
Labor Signs: Nope!
Button in or out? In
What I miss: Having normal size ankles. Seriously, my ankles are the size of a 2-liter of soda!
Weekly Wisdom: Enjoy everything about my pregnancy.....even the swollen ankles!!

Funny How Things Change!

Yesterday I was thinking about myself 1 year ago and boy how things have changed! Prior to my pregnancy I knew I wanted a baby but I was afraid that I was too selfish of a person ever to love a baby more than myself. In my mind, having a baby meant sacrifices not only monetarily but emotionally and physically as well. I was convinced that I wouldn't be half the mom my mother is. I remember thinking "Gosh, it will really suck when I have a kid and I can't buy the new shoes I want because the baby needs diapers" or "Hmmm, having a kid will really cut into my social life." Hearing those thoughts now makes me cringe. I am embarrassed to admit that I once thought like that!! Even without ever meeting my little one I know without a doubt my baby will come first in my life. I can't wait until the baby is here so I can spend my time home with the baby seeing all his/her milestones first hand. I now envision my Saturday nights with Jason and I sitting in our living room, with the TV in the background, playing with baby. What a far cry for our Saturday nights a year ago! The funny thing is, given the choice, I would gladly sit at home with our baby vs. going to a bar (well, that is on a regular basis.....never say never!). In a way it makes me sad that I was too self centered to see that loving someone else more than yourself provides a better satisfaction in life.

I might not be as great of a mother as my mom but I know without a doubt I will give my all to making my baby's life as wonderful and safe as possible! Only 75 days until the baby is here!

28 Week Poll!!

Sorry for the lack of posts in my blog in the past month. I have been distracted by other things in my life but I promise to become a regular poster again!

How far along? 28 weeks and 3 days. Only 81 more days to go!!
Total weight gain/loss: I am up 21.9 lbs (not quite ready to say 22 lbs)
Maternity clothes? Without a doubt YES!! I think at this point even my flowy non-maternity tops no longer fit
Stretch marks? Just on my right hip. I am waiting for another stretch mark explosion to happen any day now
Sleep: Oh gez.......NO! I don't think I have slept more than 8 hours over the last week and a half. I know it's getting bad when complete strangers comment on how tired I look.
Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move. I don't think that will ever get old! Also, we finally got the baby's room painted but I HATE the color - I see more painting in my future!
Food cravings: Dr. Pepper. I know it's not recommended that pregnant women drink caffeine but that is SERIOUSLY ALL I WANT!
Gender: Hmm, I am not so confident it's a boy anymore. Either way I will be happy with what God gives us!
Labor Signs: None, thank goodness
Button in or out? Still in
What I miss: Sleep!! But, it might be years before I get any
What I am looking forward to: Holding our baby for the first time
Weekly Wisdom: Don't sweat the small stuff. As long as the baby has love the baby will be happy!

24 Week Poll!

How far along? 24 weeks and 3 days
Total weight gain/loss: I have more or less maintained my weight. Monday morning I was up 17.6 lbs.....down from last week
Maternity clothes? Yes, and I would really like some new ones. However, I have better things to spend my money on
Stretch marks? Still on my right hip. I *think* I am starting to get one by my belly button. I am hopeful it's not really a stretch mark
Sleep: This week my sleep was OK
Best moment this week: I had my first baby dream. Up until now it has just been pregnancy dreams
Food cravings: Milk.....yep, milk. I haven't had a glass of milk since I was about 4 years old!
Gender: I don't care one way or the other but I still think it's a boy
Labor Signs: No!
Button in or out? In
What I miss: Not much this week. I am happy with the way things are
What I am looking forward to: I know I say this every week but hopefully this week we will start on the baby's room
Weekly Wisdom: Enjoy this phase of pregnancy. It won't be too long before I will be uncomfortable!

23 Week Poll!

Sorry, I have been MIA on my weekly polls. Mostly it was because I was in denial about the amount of weight I had gained. I have been doing better, as the past two weeks I have been able to maintain my weight.

How far along? 23 weeks and 3 days
Total weight gain/loss: I am officially up 18.4 lbs
Maternity clothes? Yes, and I have had to retire a few pants that no longer fit!
Stretch marks? Yes. So far they are just on my right hip although I think they are getting deeper :(
Sleep: It's on and off. Most nights I get up to pee at 2:30 AM and can't fall back asleep
Best moment this week: I can now see the baby moving from the outside!! It's great to look down and see my belly jump!
Food cravings: Dr. Pepper......I have snuck a few lately (which is bad I know)
Gender: I am convinced it's a boy at this point
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out? In
What I miss: Having motivation to work out
What I am looking forward to: Getting the baby's room finished
Weekly Wisdom: Don't eat too much crap!

Here is a picture of Jason and I in San Antonio this past weekend

Aren't These the Cutest Things Ever??!

I think I am going to take up knitting. While searching one of my favorite blogs Spearmint Baby, I came across two of her post that included the cutest baby items ever!

The first item is a crocheted hat. If we are blessed with a baby girl I am TOTALLY going to dress her in this hat. It can be purchased from the Etsy seller Sparkle Berry Crafts:

The second item is knitted booties that are just adorable. They can be found on Josi Croche. Regardless of the sex, I HAVE to have these knitted All Stars.....if only I can find a place to buy them!!

I Had my 4th and Final Ultrasound Today.....

It was bittersweet to have my final ultrasound today. I was excited to see my baby once again but I also was sad to know that was my last peek at the baby until it's birthday. The ultrasound lasted for a total of 23 minutes but it was the best 23 minutes of my day! Jason and I were able to see our little one yawning and waving for the camera. The baby wasn't too active and the ultrasound tech mentioned that he/she was probably falling in and out of sleep. I am proud to say that our baby is growing, and as of today weighed 15 oz., just shy of 1 lbs.

For those of you who were waiting to hear the sex of the baby, you will have to wait a little while longer!! Jason and I didn't find out the sex. I am somewhat surprised we had the willpower to stay strong!!

After my ultrasound Jason and I meet with my doctor, Dr. Shoemaker. He assured me that my pregnancy is progressing as expected and I am right on track. I feel really comfortable with my doctor. He is great at putting my concerns at ease.

As I was pulling out of the parking lot I couldn't help but feel complete joy. It would be great if I could visit the doctor everyday and experience the euphoric high I get from the reassurance that things are on track. I then had to laugh to myself, pre-pregnancy I couldn't think of anything worse that having to visit my OB-GYN. Funny how things change.....

Here is some pics from my ultrasound. The first picture is the bottom of the baby's foot. It you look closely, five toes can be made out. The second picture is the profile of our beautiful baby!!

This ALMOST Makes me Want to Find Out the Sex!!!

I came across this website searching the web and they sell the cutest baby clothes!!! Looking at all the adorable outfits ALMOST makes me want to find out the sex of our little one. But, I am determined to have will power and wait until December.
The website is http://www.shrimpandgritskids.com/default.asp and I will definitely be visiting the store come December!!

Meet the Big Brother and Big Sisters!

Jason and I have three dogs that we treat like they are our own children. They are very spoiled but will make for a great big brother and sisters!

Lady:

Age: Who knows, she is a stray that was dropped off at our house.
Hobbies: Jumping fences, cleaning Lucky and The Little Girl daily, chasing rabbits, going for rides in the car and pleasing Jason and I
How will she handle the baby: She will think she is the mama!! Lady is very nurturing and we will have nothing to worry about with her.



Lucky:

Age: Will be 6 in December. He is becoming an old man
Hobbies: Sleeping, pooping, cleaning his man parts (or lack thereof), hanging out in the AC, going for walks and cuddling
How will he handle the baby: Lucky will do well. He will be curious at first but will adjust just fine. Lucky is very laid back and isn't bothered by much.


The Little Girl:

Age: Will be 4 in November
Hobbies: Pooping indoors, barking, terrorizing Lucky and eating
How will she handle the baby: I think The Little Girl will do so-so with the baby. She will be happy to have a baby in the house but she will definitely have to be separated. She bites everyone she meets but she is misunderstood!! Biting is her way of letting you know she likes you. Thankfully she doesn't bite hard but we will need to keep her away from the baby. Biting the baby is not ok!!

It's Offical.....I am a Crazy First Time Mom!

On Tuesday of this week I began to worry because I hadn't felt the baby move much. Initially I wasn't too alarmed. I read in my "What to Expect When Expecting" book that not feeling consistent movement before the 24th week is completely normal. However, I began reading various websites and began self diagnosis......which is never a good idea. I got myself so worked up that something terrible had gone wrong that my rationalization skills went out the window.

I ended up calling my doctor and I told them my concerns about not feeling the baby. They were VERY understanding and told me to come in right away. Once I got there, they immediately took me to the back where they weighed me (yikes!), took my blood pressure and tested my proteins. Next I heard the best sound in the world.....it was the baby's heart beating strong at 142 beats per minute!!! I almost lost it when I heard the "whoosh, whoosh". It was instant relief!! Needless to say, I was super embarrassed for my overreaction and apologized a million times to the doctor. She assured me that it was ok and she's glad she was able to ease my mind by having me come in.

I guess this is just a glimpse of what's yet to come.......I will be the stereotypical first time crazy mom!!

I Have Come Up With a Solution Regarding the Windows

After a week of research and brainstorming I have come up with a solution regarding the windows in the baby's room. I (or shall I say my mom) thought of a much cheaper solution that will look great. We decided we are going to purchase Levolor Blinds from Lowes and build a frame out of trim to be placed around the window. I figure the trim pieces will help mask the fact that the window coverings are actually blinds and give the windows a more finished look. This will take some ghetto magic to pull off but it's worth it given the fact we will save over $1,000.00!!

Here is a picture of the Levlolor Blinds:

What's great about these blinds (other than the price) is they can be cut to a custom size while you shop!

We Purchased the Crib!!

I was really bummed a few weeks ago when we tried to order the crib I wanted from Babies R' Us. We were given an automated message that the crib had been discontinued but we would receive an email when the updated version of the crib was in stock. We entered our email but I figured the updated crib wouldn't hit the shelves before my due date. I decided I should start looking for alternate cribs but nothing really caught my eye.

I am happy to report that we received the email that the crib has been restocked!! Jason just called to let me know he purchased the crib and it should arrive in the next week. I am blown away by his willingness to buy the crib without me nagging him for weeks on end. Like I said in a previous post, the baby has found a place in his heart!

Here is a picture of the crib again:

19 Week Poll!

How far along? 19 weeks and 3 days
Total weight gain/loss: I think I am at 9 lbs. Although, I haven't weighed myself in a few days.....I'm scared!
Maternity clothes? Yep, I have decided not to buy anymore unless I am forced to
Stretch marks? I think I am getting a few more on my hips :( I'm sad because I still have at least 15 more lbs to gain. Jason has told me after everything is said and done, I can get the laser surgery for stretch marks.
Sleep: Good but I keep sleeping on my back which is not good!
Best moment this week: Feeling the baby. Everyday the connection I feel to the baby just gets stronger and stronger.
Food cravings: Italian subs and Italian Ice. Hmm, maybe I should move out of South Texas...
Gender: Good question
Labor Signs: Nope, not yet
Belly Button in or out? In
What I miss: Not being fat
What I am looking forward to: Seeing our baby
Weekly Wisdom: I am starting to really enjoy being pregnant. There is NOTHING else I would rather be doing

I Purchased a Diaper Bag!

Diaper bags never really got me excited like other baby items have. To me they always seemed ho-hum. Today I was randomly searching Rue La La and came across the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boutique. I found a cute diaper bag (and a great price too) that will coordinate with the stroller/car seat we are planning on buying. Here's some pics:

This is the stroller/car seat combo we are considering:

I was planning on splurging on a designer diaper bag but after the headache I am going through trying to find cheap window coverings I have reconsidered. This diaper bag will do just fine!!