Week In Review

I can't believe I actually have the opportunity to post on a Sunday...

Since I didn't get to do my Weekend Wrap-Up post last week (because I have been super busy) I'm going to do a week in review post.

Last Saturday I met a friend of mine for brunch. She's recently engaged and of course very excited. We don't get to see each other much because we both lead very busy lives so it was great to stop and make time for each other, catch up, and be girly girls! Lots of giggling, eating, and some window shopping was thrown in. I was very honored that she wanted my take on planning a wedding. We have very different styles but I think I was able to give pretty good feedback about handling other people’s opinions, competitive friends, and creating the day of your dreams! I am super excited for her and her fiancé and I know her wedding day will be filled with fun, love, and good times.

After brunch I attended the Women's luncheon for the Women's group at my church. While I am not a part of the Women's group per say I like going to fellowship and learn from other Christian women. I feel like we are bombarded with too much mumbo-jumbo that it's good to be surrounded and grounded by those who share your beliefs and {for the most part} lifestyle. One day in the very distant future I plan on joining the Women's group as a full member- attending meetings, planning events, etc. - but for now I am taking in all the advice, stories, trials, and tribulations of good Christian women that have come before me. We went to a local Italian restaurant and had salad, broccoli, salmon, sausage and peppers, and stuffed mushrooms- just to name a few- served buffet style.

Right after the luncheon (which I attended with my mom) we raced over to the furniture store to meet my dad and hubby before they closed. We made it with 5 minutes to spare. We were able to order the baby's crib and dresser and it's in stock and ready for us to pick it up! By this time I was getting exhausted and I have no idea what happened Saturday night. Sunday night pretty much follows suit- after church who knows what we did…

On Monday we received some awesome news… the second baby expected in our family was born! {I can’t find my blogger post about this}This is so exciting. I love seeing our extended family grow and continue on. This summer’s baby #2 is a boy! That brings the baby boy count up to 2 and everyone is wondering if our little bundle of joy is going to continue the trend or break the mold J

On Tuesday we attended the last installment (maybe) of classes we registered for to prepare for our little one. The rest of the week went by in a haze… wake up, go to work, get home, relax, eat, sleep- rinse and repeat. Friday brought in a whole new set of fun and I can’t wait to tell you about it!

Preparing for baby!

This past week we have made a few more steps towards preparing for our little bit.

On Saturday we finally ordered the crib! Most mama-to-be's who aren't even as far along as I am would cringe if they wait until 6 weeks before baby is due to order a crib- especially when most crib orders take 10 to 12 weeks! But the crib we order is in stock and we just have to pick it up!

We got both pieces shown in the picture above (in espresso). This is great but even if we had to wait I wasn't too concerned because the crib was going to be in the baby's nursery and not our room- baby however would be in our room. So, I registered for a bassinet and hopefully someone will be kind enough and gift it to us- if not I am grabbing up some coupons and going to get one!

On Tuesday, we went our last installment of baby classes. It was called breastfeeding basics. I really want to breastfeed for as long as possible and I have done a lot of research on this topic. I have quite a few resources already lined up (including my momma who breastfed both of her kids!) and I am feeling quite confident that I will be successful at it. I know I have heard quite a few stories from moms who felt like their babies didn't want to be at the breast, moms who felt like their milk 'couldn't come in' and a whole host of other stories. The class was taught by a lactation consultant who explained all of the reasons a mom would feel this way and what they could do to solve the issue. I know it may not necessarily be the easiest thing in the world but my husband promised to support me and I won't give up after the first few tries. I also found out that they give you a list of local lactation consultants in your baby's bassinet at the hospital so I'll have even more resources by the time I am ready to begin.

My husband was deathly afraid of being the only guy in the class and seeing some other woman's boobies (I highly doubt that one!). All but 2 of the women there had a support person with them and we all stayed full clothed. The only boobs he saw was the women in the video they show you and I'm positive he's over it now. In order to demonstrate proper positioning and latching techinques, we did have hands on demos with a plush boob and baby doll. It was very unassuming and not as uncomfortable as I thought! I didn't get a picture of the practice boob but here was our baby:



I think I want to do the natural birth class as well. Some days I feel like I can do it, othere days I feel like I can't. Ideally I think I want to go as long as possible without meds so that they don'taffect the baby too much- but pain is pain and childbirth pain is nothing to play with! I keep meaning to give the hopsital a call to see if they have any classes left this month. I know it's getting down to the wire- but I think I want to give it a shot.

Today, hubby is supposed to do some more painting in the baby's room. I really wish I had taken before pics, but I guess during and after pics will do. Here's to a busy weekend!

34 weeks!

I am so tired and at times I feel so heavy. I'm sure it's partly to do with the fact that I was up on the computer last night. But that was only because I felt like I couldn't sleep. I've always been a night owl. According to my parents, I used to fight in order to not go to sleep at night. I feel like this one is developing the same pattern. I just hope my baby will want to entertain themselves all night while mom and dad gets rest.

According to The Bump: Baby can recognize and react to simple songs... time to start practicing your lullabies! In fact, baby will recognize frequently sung tunes after birth and probably find them soothing. less cute news: She now urinates about one pint per day. Get the diapers ready!

According to Baby Center: Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. His/her fat layers — which will help regulate his/her body temperature once s/he's born — are filling him/her out, making him/her rounder. Baby's skin is also smoother than ever. The central nervous system is maturing and lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.


Pregnancy: 34 weeks!

Gender: Team Green

Name: One day while out at dinner we decided we weren't going to leave the table until we had a concrete name. Then the restaurant closed...

Weight Gain: I'm uncomfortable with my 17 pound gain- but what are you gonna do?! Baby needs it. I think what bums me out the most is that after baby comes - I'll actually have to work out!

Sleep: *rolls eyes*

Feeling: Overwhelmed. Tired. Round.

Health: My only reassurance that I am not losing my mind are my doctor's appointments stats. Maybe it's because I have fallen off my water drinking wagon :/

Movement: O yea! On more than one occasion I felt baby move with purpose when my husband walked into the room and started talking. I am convinced that baby recognizes daddy's voice and reacts!

Belly: Last night while it was on my mind I measured the circumference of my belly. 40 inches... whoa!

Next appointment: 5 more days! so excited!

Overwhelmed

My post today was supposed to be a few things.

1.       It was supposed to be posted earlier

2.       It was supposed to be about another baby prep class

3.       It was supposed to be about my recent baby purchase and lastly,

4.       It was supposed to include some stuff about my weekend.

So clearly I have a lot going on and quite frankly it’s a little overwhelming. Truth be told I get overwhelmed with my to do list about once every 4 to 6 weeks so this is nothing new. However, once you throw in pregnancy induced exhaustion and laziness this amplifies this overwhelmed feeling. My husband asked me to write and everything down and we will begin to cross everything off together (I<3 him!). While I would love to start this list right here, right now- you might stop following me forever.

I'm so overwhelmed, I keep mixing up the days of me and hubby's engagement anniversary!

So, tomorrow we celebrate. 4 years ago tomorrow I had no idea what I was in store for. Hopefully I can capture this story again to share with you all. In the meantime- I panic... and create another list...

More random thoughts

Celebrity pregnancies

I know I told you about my celeb pregnancy crush- Tia Mowry Hardrict, who welcomed her baby boy Cree earlier this month- well I'm about to get another. Nia Long is pregnant! I thought she has always been a very talented and gorgeous actress and I like how she is not always all over the news entangled in drama and gossip. When someone asks who would you want to play you in a movie about your life- I've always answered Nia Long (sometimes Sanaa Lathan and maybe possibly Vanessa Simmons but anyway) and now she's expecting like I am! She is absolutely stunning in these pictures... She and Tia and my pregnancy inspirations!

Can I go off on a tangent really quick? Of course I can... I like Nia, Tia, and Sanaa for a baby girl... just saying. But we won't be using any of those because- I have a cousin named Tia, Sanaa is easily mispronounced and while Nia was formerly a front runner- I don't think it's gong to make it.

One of the very things I like about these two actresses (their ability to remain private while still in the spotlight) is the very things that's killing me right now. I wish there were more pictures of them in public and normal (not posed at awards shows) so I can completely copy their style. For now this will have to do:

                                               
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 Babymoon

I'd like to think of this as a more recent phenomenon. I think of it as a way for the hotel and hospitality industry to capitalize on more marketing ploys to generate more revenue- but I like the idea!

It started out as the phrase used to described the period of time that parents spend with their newborn baby but more recently it has evolved into the last trip you take as a family of two before coming a family of 3. Much like your honeymoon is your first trip you take as a husband and wife. I like the idea because well I like vacations and it wouldn't hurt to go away for a weekend or weekend (whatever the budget allows) and enjoy your spouse in a way that you probably never will again. Even if you take trips with just the two of you at any point after the baby is born- I don't think parents ever fully relax and get worry free because no matter who you leave as a babysitter (even the most trusted individuals) you will be worrying about how your child is doing. You may know that he or she is well taken care otherwise you wouldn't have left your child/children with someone who wouldn't take care for them but I get the feeling that I would personally worry over something like is my child on his or her best behavior, and they scared at night without mommy or daddy in the other room, are they comfortable not sleeping in their own bed (or if the person is house sitting) are they comfortable knowing mom and dad aren't in the next room. I for one like family vacations and wouldn't really want to go too many places without my children- I want them to experience the world as I am!

I have also heard stories about how you may unintentionally hate your husband for a period of time after the baby is born. It may be no fault of anyone's but a lack of sleep can do that to you... so why not lock in some lovey-dovey time while you are still sane?!





Wish this was us!

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Birth announcements

I think I want to consider doing a birth announcement. Don't get me wrong- there won't be a sole person on this earth who will not know that we had the baby but I like the formality of sending an announcement. it will mainly be a keepsake for me and the immediate family and it will be sent to a few people in me and my husbands lives that aren't close enough to meet the baby sometime in the near future. My husband has amassed a lot of colleagues from his career and his alter ego performances and the majority of his relatives live out of state. I have a handful of friends that I will likely want to send one to and very extended family that will likely want to hear the news as well.

I don't know the specifics and etiquette for sending out announcements so I'm taking a wild stab at this.

1. I will include a picture from our newborn photos. I've already talked this over with my resident photographer and he is willing to do the newborn photos. Now, I have to get my hubby on board for this and figure out how soon after the birth these need to be done. I already have a few concepts in mind and my brother left the 'studio' set up in my house so we can jump right in!

2. I need a design. I think this will actually be based on the sex and name of the baby. I have been casually perusing some sites but haven't come up with anything yet- just getting ideas flowing in my head. Once I see something really striking- I'll post it to my pinterest board to create the perfect card.

3. I need to figure out when they go out. Like if I wait a month after the baby is born, is it pointless at that point? If so, I would be under a huge time crunch while recovering and learning how to be a mom... stressful! AND if I wait too long I could just do Christmas cards- but that just takes the fun out of baby announcements. I love pictures and for baby's first year book I already know I am doing monthly growth photos and holiday photos. So before the year is out baby will have 1,2, and 3 month photos along with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas pics! So throwing in newborn photos should be easy...right?!
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I stink at word games!

Okay, I really wanted to show you that I knew how to do something cool with my new iPhone! LOVE IT!
 

33 weeks!

I feel like Thursdays come way too fast now. While I want to meet and see my baby and get to know him or her- I don't want my little one out yet. My baby doesn't cry, is always comfy and fed and I like it like that! Last night baby was playing so hard that I thought I would never fall asleep! I had to have my husband witness this and he couldn't believe how strong he or she has gotten- he's so excited to meet little one too!

According to The Bump: Baby is now the size of a honeydew! Things are heating up inside as well: Baby may grow up to a full inch this week alone, and his or her brain is developing like crazy. Pretty soon, s/he'll be able to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing. Also, his or her bones are hardening, and s/he's started to keep his or her eyes open when s/he's awake.

According to Baby Center: This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds and has passed the 17-inch mark. S/He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him or her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a cone head-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.


Pregnancy: 33 weeks

Gender: Team Green

Name:

Weight Gain: 3 more pounds from the last doctor's appointment bringing the total to 17 pounds of pregnancy weight.

Sleep: All week this has been a harrowing task. I feel like it takes forever for me to get into a comfortable position. The baby also like to play around for a while when I lay down so it's a little distracting feeling the baby doing his or her thing cause I like to lay awake and enjoy it. Hubby usually comes to my rescue and rubs my back so I can feel better and fall asleep faster.

Feeling: Sluggish. I did get to the gym on Monday and that was great! I haven't worked out in about 4 weeks and I needed this. I only ran into two problems- the first it was so difficult to get my sneakers on I had to take a break before I started my workout and two our local heatwave has not made it possible for me to want to work out again. I just want to be in the air conditioned indoors with lots of water. I am also afraid of getting swelling and also getting over heated so I'm going to say it's better to be safe than sorry.

Health: It's wonderful! At today's doctor's appointment my blood pressure measure 110/60- it can not get better than that... no pre-e for me! I honestly thought this was going to be an issue for me because my diet isn't exactly the best and most of the people in my family are on blood pressure meds. My fundal height was right on target at 33 inches, baby's heart rate was in the 130's and according to my doctor my GTT results came back "100 % normal"! I've also increased my water intake and my plan is to try to stay on track.

Movement: Lots! My little bit is not a lazy one (not like his or her mama). I read on one of my pregnancy apps (yes I have more than one!) that I will probably feel little bit's feet get caught in my ribs... and I do. Most of the time it's not painful- just uncomfortable. I can also feel when the baby "rolls". It's a weird feeling at times.

Belly: I said this already but my fundal height is on target. There are times when I feel absolutely huge and other times I feel like I am carrying a neat little ball in front of me. I guess it all depends on what position the baby is laying.

Next appointment: August 1st. It's a few days early because we will be traveling for my family reunion but I also get an ULTRASOUND!!! I am so freaking excited because I haven't seen our baby since about 18 weeks. The only thing that has kept me sane is feeling my baby- but imagine if you when without seeing your child for 17 weeks (if you have children)! And college students do not count... I mean little infant babies. Exactly! you would loose your mind too :)

This week's obsession

The past two weeks I have been slacking on with my obessions. First, I didn't post one obsession due to my extended weekend and my obsession last week was totally about being a foodie. So, I going to try to get back on track.

Belly Casts!

Initially, I thought this was a cute but unnecessary idea. Actually I still feel that way. I like it as a reminder of how your belly was during your pregnancy and captures that memory in a way that a 2-D photo cannot. The problem is after you cast your belly then what?? Here are some ideas that I've seen on the interwebs: Hang it in the nursery, flip it over and use it as a chips and dip serving tray, display it at your baby shower.

These are all great ideas (side eye to the chips and dip platter... I don't foresee anyone eating out of my boobs) but I think it will outgrow the 'nursey' by baby's first birthday although it is a really cute idea for the gift table centerpiece at the shower. After that, I have no where to put it. I would like to keep it- but storing it seems like it's going to be a problem. We haven't cleaned out the second bedroom yet and have no idea where we are going to put that stuff.. let alone my baby belly :/

I really like this kit from Maternitique because it is a little on the modest side- kind of like the cast is wearing a shirt. There are some casts where your boobs are really prominent and that just doesn't sit all that well with me. I mean it gets to the point of casting how you look- but not if this is actually going to be seen by other people.

I also can't exactly justify the cost. Especially if I can't keep it forever. So I think this one will just stay an obsession.

The Class:2

On Sunday we had our final Childbirth prep class. This week we got to tour the maternity floor. Your maternity stay starts with at the PET (I forgot what this stands for and goggle isn't helping) unit. You get evaluated (maybe the "e"?) and checked out and a decision is made whether to keep you for L&D, send you home, or send you to antepartum unit. It wasn't a big hoopla except the millions of families in the waiting area. I even overheard someone say "there's a whole bunch of pregnant women walking through here"... I didn't get a glimpse of THAT genius.

Then we saw a delivery room all set up and ready to go. It was pretty small and not really what I expected. I think TV does that to you. I loved the show 'One born every minute' on lifetime and either this hospital is way ahead of the game or the hospital I am delivering at is way behind the game. Unfortunately you can't watch episodes on line any more but their L&D rooms were way fancier which is why the L&D room where I will be delivering isn't what I expected. We didn't get to see an 'after the baby is born' room but our instructor said they are private. She also said they remodeled some rooms so hopefully if we get one of those it will make our stay a bit more comfy.

Next stop was newborn nursery. All those people who were in the PET unit waiting room seemed to have migrated to the newborn nursery (at least that what it seemed like). Inside the nursery must have been the cutest room full of people (and by that I mean babies) I have ever seen! This too calmed my fears because when the instructor kept saying that they will take my baby to the nursery I kept think o no they won't! I don't care what needs to be done. They can gather up all their materials and schlep it to my room and do what you need to do in here with us. But actually seeing how they babies were ok made me feel better. I knew they weren't going to torture my child but I just didn't like the idea of someone else taking him or her from me to do whatever they do. What if my little one was cold or tired or just wanted his or her mommy and you people have him or her in there ignoring my cutie patootie?! Well the babies were all fine, no one was screaming or being ignored and there was a set of twins in there whose dad looked so overwhelmed trying to rub on both of them at the same time. It was too cute! So cute- it made me cry. Yes I cried standing in the window of the newborn nursery staring at some babies I don't even know.

It was an overwhelming feeling knowing that my baby will be in there shortly with my husband rubbing on him or her! I tried to scope out as much as I could. Each baby holder (for lack of a better description) was clearly label with baby's name, birth date, parents, and birth details (like time, weight, etc). Underneath each bassinet (there you go...that's it!) was a two tiered draw stocked with blankets, diapers, and a whole bunch of other supplies. Some of the baby's had ink on their feet from being stamped, you could see the ID bracelets on each one, and they all had on the cutest baby hats! It's exciting and scary at the same time!

After our tour, we talked some more about the birth process and went in depth into C-sections. We then did an exercise where each of the moms were given a card that had an action or phrase on it. During our practice contractions we were supposed to act our or say whatever is on the card and our partners had to help us work through it. My card said "refuse to breathe" and my husband guess right away. He immediately yelled at me to "KEEP BREATHING"! Some of the other husbands had looks of concern and bewilderment on their faces. One guy outright said "I don't know what you are supposed to be doing". It was good practice for the big day and I think my hubby will remain calm and be an amazing and supportive birth partner.

She also taught us how to swaddle a baby although it wasn't part of the curriculum. Hubby got it right on the first try on the practice baby! This reminds me to add blankets and swaddlers to our registry. I am now aggravated that it didn't occur to me to take any pictures of anything during the past two classes- especially of my hubby swaddling the baby doll :( By then end of this class I had made up my mind that I want to do the natural birth class to see if I can take a stab at it or at least use a reduced amount of medication but these classes are so expensive!

All in all I would say we are just a little bit more prepared about what to expect in the overall grand scheme of things- but we don't know what will happen to us specifically.

Weekend Wrap-Up

So clearly I've been so busy I didn't post these past couple of days. The busiest thing for me right now is work. I'm trying to train my boss (go figure) how to do my work ( a very long story that I will have to save for when the time is right). As well as get a lot of things done before I leave (11 business days and counting) so that I don't have a mess to come back to.

Thursday I was in meetings all day and one of our co-workers going away party (we love having cake and ice cream!) to send her off to her new job. This is precisely why I didn't post my 32 week post until yesterday. I ended up staying at work late to catch up on things I couldn't get to during the normal work day. when i got home that night I was pooped and spent the entire evening on the couch catch up on almost 2 weeks of past due All My Children episodes (I'm going to miss that show when it's gone) so after watching 8 hours of AMC (less commercials) I went to bed. This caused me to be extremely sleepy the next day and did not help my work productivity at all.

Friday of course ended early and for the first time in weeks- I left on time. It wasn't because I was all caught up on work or finished all my duties/answering emails, etc... it's because I needed Rita's in my life asap. So off I went! The rest of Friday is a blur...

Saturday morning I slept late. I wasn't awoken by noisy neighbors, ringing phones or anything! I actually woke up on my own (after a 5 am bathroom run) and it felt soooo good. I wish I could wake up on my own everyday. This is funny because I immediately started cleaning my bedroom. I just needed to get this done- it had been bothering me for a while now. I took every thing I could out of the bedroom and cleaned it from top to bottom. Then hubby came in and moved all the furniture so I could could really get all the cracks and crevices. He started teasing me that I was nesting but I didn't care I needed to get the dust out of every corner of the room. After my big bedroom cleanup we hung out at his friends house for the rest of the evening.

Sunday's church service was a much needed reprieve from the nonsense that is my life. After church hubby and I grabbed snacks and headed over to the second part of our childbirth prep class. We got to tour the hospital and when we stopped at the newborn nursery- I cried. I really cannot believe my baby will be in there in 2 months! My meanie husband walked away from me :/ This whole thing is still so unreal to me- yet amazing at the same time. After class we headed out for a light dinner and a stop at destination maternity. I really feel like I am running out of clothing options now. I have about 6 or so maxi dresses that have been in heavy rotation since June and I want to wear something different now. I picked up another dress but everything is was waaay above my price range. Why on earth is A Pea in the Pod so expensive!!! I want to meet someone who has purchased maternity clothes from there and found out what their justification was for spending $325 on a dress that you are not getting married in?! Then I went to their website. The tag line says where celebrity moms-to-be shop. So then why is it in my neighborhood?? I can't assure you my husband is as close to celebrity my block sees...ever!

Anyway my lack of a shopping haul made me in need of a serious fix. So hubby went out and got the perfect thing:

They were having a sale buy 2 get 1 free! So now I get Rita's every night for dessert :) I also made a promise that in order to have Rita's i have to do some form of exercise. So, I am giving myself a pep talk to go to the gym.

Sunday night I was laying in bed and I look up at the ceiling and horrifically discover that of all the cleaning I did int he bedroom- I didn't do the fan blades... great! This bothered me til I fell asleep and now I'm pissed because once I get up there to clean it small particles of dust are going to land on surfaces like the dresser which I just cleaned! I know this is going to happen anyway but I figured I had until the weekend before any surface dust would be seen!!!! SMH!

So now if I get up and go to the gym now I can be rewarded handsomely tonight with a bowl of a mix of mango, wild black cherry, and coconut water ice :) and all will be right with the world again!

32 weeks!

So I know this post is a few days late but I'm pregnant and this is my blog so I can do that right?

I can't beleive I am writing my 8 month post. And again my widget is ahead of my actual progress I don't know why- maybe it's letting me know what's to come. Last night my hubby said that time has come to a crawl. I think he is insane! The closer I get to delivery- the sadder I get that me and my baby will be separated from each other :( I'm still surveying friends who have had children in the past year about their birthing experience. I recently talked to a high school friend who gave birth 13 months ago at the hospital I'm going to deliever at. It made me feel a little bit better about the situation as a whole. I am coming to the realization that no matter what happens the doctor along with the hospital staff know what they are doing and will do what they know how to do to keep me and my baby safe- even if it isn't this picture perfect made for TV birth.

By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds- the size of a large jicama -and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, s/he'll gain a third to half of his or her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as s/he fattens up for survival outside the womb. S/he now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.



This is a jicama- Yea I didn't know what is was either!

Pregnancy: 32 weeks!

Gender: Team Green

Name: Undecided

Weight Gain: No reports from last weeks update.

Sleep: I hate waking up to an alarm clock. It makes more tired throughout the day. I like waking up on my own better.

Feeling: Low tolerance and high annoyance. I'm pretty surre it's from sleep deprivation. I also see the tiniest hint of a stretch mark on my upper thighs. I'm kicking my moisturization regime into high gear. I also saw something ( I can't remeber where) that strecthing helps stretch marks. I haven;t dance in a month so I need to get back to some sort of physical activity.

 

Health: My water intake has increased but it's still not where it needs to be.

Movement: Baby is still active. My hubby tries to wake up the baby whenever he feels like talking to him or her. I think I'm going to start waking hubby up in the middle of the night to talk to him on behalf of the baby.

Belly: Big.

Next appointment: July 21st. 

This week's obsession

Smoothies!



Okay, I know this isn't exactly a baby product- but I can't get enough of these (and I'm pregnant so there!)! There is this little deli shop steps away from my job that makes the best strawberry banana smoothies. One day I am actually going to ask them what they put in it besides strawberries and bananas. I also enjoy Rita's Misto Shakes (try bahama mama).  I'm trying my best not to have one everyday - so far I've only had one this week- because they are LOADED with sugar and calories which is not good for weight gain and the risk of gestational diabetes. Normally I try to justify it by walking to go get one- which will burn some of the calories I consume.

Lately I feel like I've fallen off the healthy pregnancy wagon so I've been trying to increase my water intake and replace most of the beverages I have with meals with water. I'm not at my goal yet but I am increase my daily intake little by little everyday. So here's to healthy drinking!

The Class

On Sunday we attended our first childbirth preparation class. It was interesting to say the least.  But first things first:



The food situtation must always known.

The instructor has a long history of medical experience from NICU to a school nurse- and she is also a certified lactation consultant. She has 4 teenage daughters all of which were delivered vaginally; I think she said one was unmedicated, and two were born in the hospital in which we are going to deliver. So, I see how she can be qualified to teach this course because she will be able to speak from a wide range of experiences.

We began by doing our introductions- I think the couple the furthest along was 36 weeks and the couple who had the furthest to go is due October 22. Then we did an exercise where all the dads went into one room and the moms in another and we had to make a list of 10 good things about pregnancy and 10 bad things. 2 things were on both groups positive list and that was feeling the baby moving and eating whatever we wanted. The guys came up with a positive list that included always having a designated driver, and getting household projects done (aaww what sweet hubby’s we have) and a negative list that included having too many pillows in the bed (funny!). We then learned about 3 stages of labor- pre labor, then the first, second, and third stages (go figure!) and then broke down what happens in each stage for mom , baby, and dad too. Within each stage some basic anatomy was thrown in there as well as common terms. Simple enough right? Well then we had to watch a video…

Horrified. I have no idea why. I knew this was coming and not only have I seen a childbirth video before, but I’ve also seen a live vaginal birth (and a cesarean birth) from my days while I was in medicine. I think it was different for me this time because my number is coming up soon. I don’t particularly care for the unknown especially knowing that the unknown is going to be a painful process. Before we conceived, I had heard and read about a wide range of different experiences about pregnancy- some good, some bad- but there was comfort in the fact that there are a wide range of remedies for pregnancy ailments, aches, and pains. I felt like if I have morning sickness I can deal with it through the various nauseous remedies available like eating light meals frequently, ginger, preggie pops, staying in bed (or over the toilet), whatever. With childbirth I don’t feel like there is enough options available to me to overcome this without being drastically traumatized. Sure millions of women have done it for thousands of years and I’ll get through it but there is just something about passing a human through my body that makes me incredibly nervous and downright scared. All the women in this video had unmedicated vaginal births which is kind of what I want. So what makes a women who is terribly scared of the childbirth process want an unmedicated vaginal birth?… the internet.

So there are two ways the baby is coming out: through the vagina or through the belly. Here is my thought process about this whole situation. It may not be your way of thinking but it’s mine and I am going to work it out over the next couple of weeks. And if I don’t I better go with God!

Cesarean birth

Pros                                                                                                                               

Pretty much pain free.                                                                                                

Little to no effort if it schedule if not emergent

Vagina remains in tact

Cons

It’s major surgical procedure

I’ve never had surgery

I don’t know how my body will react to the anesthesia

Longer recovery time

Scarring
I don't know how my baby will react to the anesthesia

Vaginal Birth

Pros

Faster recovery time than cesarean

Opportunity to immediately bond with my baby

It’s the way nature intended it to be

If unmedicated- the baby will not be affected by drugs

Cons

Could cause vaginal and perineal trauma (from ripping)

Painful (maybe)

Vagina may not be the “same”

With 4 pros for the vaginal birth and 6 cons for the cesarean birth- clearly for me, vaginal is the way to go (unless there is a health risk that brings about the need for an emergency-C. So how do I address the cons to help have the most positive experience possible? Perineal massage can reduce the chances of ripping. We all know baby’s head has to get out so why not start preparing for it to come out? The massage is intended to stretch the vaginal opening so that baby’s head can fit through. Some mothers have also suggested sex to help with the opening (among other things) (and I'm not above trying that!)

The epidural is the most common “pain killer” used for vaginal births- easy fix for pain right? Well, I’m not convinced. There are some side effects that do not appeal to me. The first and major issue I have with it is that it sometimes can affect the baby in a not so pleasant way. Some babies become drowsy and this interferes with their ability to nurse right away. Is it necessary for the baby to eat right away? No, (according to the instructor) but I want to because it will help with bonding. Sometimes the epidural can be spotty or not work at all. In that case I now have unless drugs in me and my baby's system. Epidurals (if it actually works) not only takes the pain away but also any feeling you have period. So that means no walking for a period of time and you can't feel yourself pushing the baby- how am I supposed to get him or her out if I  can feel 'em?!

There are alternative drugs such as Demerol and Stadol but these are narcotics and is intended to only take the edge off and won't take the pain away completely- and still affects the baby.

Then there are alternative methods like birthing balls, water births, hypnobirthing, etc. I haven't yet had the opportunity to research all of these methods and I feel as if I have no time to. Ideally I would like to do a water birth (however I don't think the hospital I am delivering at allows it) or at least labor in water (I will find out if this allowed and I don't mean a shower). I have heard very good things about it and the only con that I came across would be that it can sometimes relax the mom to a point where labor slows down (and that is not the point).

So do you now see why I am so conflicted- trying to achieve (for the most part) a healthy and safe delivery as well as a healthy and happy baby?? We have another class on Sunday that includes a tour of the hospital, more in depth talk about cesareans, and some other things I forgot. We will see what comes of this. Pray.

Weekend Wrap Up

I felt really busy this weekend but can't remember too much about it. The main highlights of the weekend were taking my maternity pictures, going to 'childbirth prep' class and my first baby shower!

I don't want to post an unedited picture from the shoot but can I just say my brother is amazing! I had so much fun with him and of course I was super comfortable with him because he's been my best friends his whole life! I will likely post one or two pics just so you guys can be awed in amazement :) okay, okay, here is a sneak peek:

Childbirth Prep class was a bit harrowing and this warrants its own post. I started writing it shortly after I got home because I had to get some of my thoughts out before I forgot them.

My first baby shower was a total surprise thrown by my co-workers! It was so cute especially because I am the party planner of my department so they were on their own trying to surprise me. Needless to say I have to take the disposable camera to get the film developed, because no one remembered to bring a camera. hahaha! So I'll be posting those another day too :) There was cake (yum!) snacks, games, and gifts! I feel very blessed to have people apart of our lives who love us and want to cherish our blessings as well.

My parents also came over for dinner on Friday, a meeting on Saturday, and church on Sunday just about rounds out this weekend's festivities.

I love weekends =)

2 random thoughts

This post is consists of random things that I wanted to tell you but likely do not really warrant a post of their own.

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My celebrity crush right now is Tia Mowry-Hardrict. Maybe it's the pregnancy thing but I'm loving her right now. She always looks put together, very glamorous, and is real about her pregnancy. She even talks about how she's grateful that she's not having twins and respects her mama even more now. She's in a long line of celebs who put their nude pregnancy photos out there for everyone to see. I'm going to do a maternity shoot (hopefully sometime in the next couple of days) but I am not sure if I will be sharing the shots with the world... I may post the decent ones here but I think they are brave for showing it off. Some pregnant women don't feel very sexy during their pregnancies and I think it's wonderful that they show it can be a very beautiful time.

Right before the holiday weekend, she had her baby boy. I'm pretty sure she name him Cree. I am so happy for them. She and her sister have a show coming out this August and I a) can't wait to see it and b) hope they document the pregnancy and Tamera's wedding.

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Extreme Couponing has change my life. I happened to stumble upon this show when they were advertising with previews and I recorded an episode (it came on too late for a pregnant woman) and I was immediately hooked. I learned so much about how to manage my grocery finances better from watching this show. When I originally started clipping coupons I never intended to start stock piling until I came across some can't refuse deals. I don't have much but this is a sample:

The sauces will be great for when we need quick meals after baby is born. I know part of the secret is to make meals and freeze them to be popped in the oven whenever- but {both}my freezers can only hold so much. Secondly- the salad dressing is going to be used all summer. So far we have have about 4 or 5 cookouts/impromptu gatherings and it's come in handy every time.

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Okay,

That's all for now.

31 weeks!

This nervous feeling never goes away. My weekly countdown is now in the single digits, for real! I had a doctor's appointment this morning and all is well. We discussed who would deliver my baby, cord blood banking, and more! In case you didn't know, there are 3 doctors in the practice. I asked the nurse today how do they determine who goes to the hospital when and she broke it down for me. The only thing I am a little leary about it the weekend schedule. If I were to deliver on a weekend any on call doctor could deliver the baby- and I am just not happy with that. She did state that my doctor would do membrane stripping to sort of help labor get started but a) that may not work and b) I'm really not into intervening unless medically necessary to start labor. My doctor did however agree that if all is well- once baby comes out they will wiped him or her off a little and put baby on my chest and allow baby's cord to stop pulsating on it's own! I like that because more of the baby's cord blood can get circulated in his or her body. This makes me very happy.

Doesn't this baby look squished?! Anyway... According to babycenter.com:

photo courtesy of babycenter.com

This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. S/he can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his/her skin. S/he's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

Pregnancy: 31 weeks!

Gender: Team Green

Name: Undecided

Weight Gain: I lost a pound (or 2!)- I can't believe it. I think that last weight check-in was a fluke.

Sleep: My husband isn't getting any... poor guy.

Feeling: Tired and winded. But I love it when the little one stretches and takes my breath away =)

Health: My blood pressure was 120/68. This is really good considering. I do have to get a lot better with drinking water.

Movement: Baby is definitely more active at times. The doctor showed me where baby's body parts are and it turns out that last night hubby was talking to the baby's feet!

 

Belly: Big.

Next appointment: July 21st. 

Weekend Wrap-Up

Yes, my weekend has finally come to a close :( Which is pretty good considering is hump day!

Friday

Half-day Friday's at work never get old :)

However Friday morning induced a little panic... we are officially in the single digit weekly countdown (9 weeks and 6 days to go...)

We had lunch at one of hubby's friends house. Then lunch turned into dinner and the entire afternoon was accompanied by laughs. His daughter is getting married this weekend. I'm not going but I love weddings anyway! His wife showed me all of the do-it-yourself projects they are doing and it took me back to my wedding.

Lastly, my hubby is the sweetest man ever! Look what he surprised me with:

Okay, well sort of. He didn't actually bring it home- which I am relieved about because I want to get some more home projects (read: nursery) out of the way before this. There is also a portion of my maternity leave where I will be required to pay into some of my benefits and that added in with the expense of a new baby- I want to wait before we add more bills into the household. The last time he bought a car he waited until I gave the go ahead so he figured he would do the same again this time (thank goodness he did). The dealership was even going to give him a bow to put on it...awwwwww!

Dear Sweetheart,

You are the best husband ever and you are going to be a great dad! I love you and thank you for thinking of "us".

Love,

Sweatpea


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Saturday

My cousin's baby shower was on Saturday. We had lots of fun and I even won a prize!

I normally wouldn't step foot in a Starbucks- but since someone else is paying... tall vanilla bean frappacino please!

I just checked the website to make sure I had my sizes right (and I didn't) and saw they now have coconut creme frappacino... I'm changing my order :)

She and I took pictures of our bellies but I think she might kill me if I posted a picture of her pregnant. Speaking of which- my other cousin had the first summer baby 2 weeks ago! (I can't remember if I told you or not).

After my cousin's shower we were supposed to be state hopping between 3 states but a last minute change of plans by hubby's best friends left us state hopping only two states.

We still had fun though. I love visiting his friends- they are always good for laughs. We stayed one night at one friends house and another night at a different friends house.

This brings us to...
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Monday

We headed home to my Aunt's 4th of July cookout. It was originally scheduled for Sunday but it rained so she pushed it back one day. This was perfect for us because we actually got to make it :) I love hanging out with family. My dad's family was always huge (in numbers) and there is something comforting about this to me. My grandma's sister is like 90 something and she was the oldest of 17 (nope she wasn't there- she's not doing well in her old age) but to have my grandma's sisters and brothers there with some of their descendants is always entertaining.

Did I ever tell you about how much I LOVE Rita's coconut ice? Yum!

That night we stayed at my parent's house. Our block usually has a huge fourth of July celebration until the wee hours of the morning and we just weren't up for it this year. So we had a sleep over at my parent's. They love it when all of the children are under their roof...day or night.

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Tuesday

This is my extended weekend. I did it for memorial day and if I weren't going to be on maternity leave I would do it again for Labor day. It was the smartest thing I could ever think of... extending my already long weekend by another day. *Life's simple pleasures*

Hubby was very patient with me all.day.long. We went wherever I said I wanted to go. This included home depot. We finalized the paint for baby's room and picked up the primer. We also decided that we are going to do a chair rail in the room. I knew you could do almost anything yourself but the amount of "stuff' available to you in these hardware superstores is amazing! I've never really been past the paint aisle. When we got to the lumber section I was floored and inspired! When I own my own home... I'm going to be a stapling gun wielding do-it-yourself fixer upper. Actually, I'll just supervise what hubby does, but it's all the same... isn't it? This is what we picked out...

I know you can't get the full gist of it from this picture, but maybe you can get an idea from my pintrest board. We also went to IKEA- picked up a few things and turned one of the living room walls from

to

We needed a change of scenery and this was a quick and easy way to do it.

Now that the weekend is over- it's back to the grind at least for another day and a half!

Happy Independence Day!