What's happening with the baby:
The baby is 8.4 inches from crown to rump and weights 1.2 pounds. He's starting to produce white blood cells, mostly for combating disease and infection. He may start to respond to touch and sounds. Hiccups may be felt soon, like a jerking motion.
We had another doctor appointment last Thursday. My belly is measuring at 24.5 inches. It should measure an inch for every week, and I was only 23.5 weeks. So far it looks like Cooper could arrive a little early, since he even measured big at the ultrasound. I have to go in for my 1 hour glucose screening, which is the initial test for gestational diabetes. His heartbeat was loud and clear, at 133-135 bpm. We got a bunch of free stuff...I can't believe he'll be so tiny to fit those diapers! Everything else is looking great!
Cooper is moving a lot these days. He still has his cycles of quiet and then times where he moves a ton, but his kicks are really strong now. My belly moves quite a bit and it so strange to feel movement on both sides (I guess he's big enough now). He's also able to reach my ribs. I'm very ticklish on my sides, so I laugh a lot when he kicks me there!
The other night he was making my belly jump. It started out at slightly regular intervals, but then became more sporadic. Hiccups maybe? I think he was playing jump rope with the umbilical cord, or maybe leapfrog with an imaginary friend. Whatever it was, I got sooo motion sick from it! It was awful. I had to get up and keep walking around to avoid the motion sickness. I hope it wasn't hiccups because I don't want to get motion sick every time he has them!
I cannot stop cleaning!! I think I make more of a mess than I actually clean, but I seriously can't stop!
Belly pics have been updated.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Friday, December 28, 2007
23 weeks, 5 days: Baby Shower and Christmas
What's happening with the baby:
The baby is about 8 inches from crown to rump and weighs almost 1 pound. The body is becoming proportioned more like a newborn, but the skin is still wrinkled because the baby still has more weight to gain. Lanugo hair on the body sometimes turns darker.
We had a wonderful time back home in Denver this year for Christmas! It was a VERY busy weekend, but we still enjoyed ourselves.
Our flight arrived late because of weather and holiday travel on Friday night. So we didn't go to bed until almost 2 am. Then my baby shower was the next morning at 10:30, so we started the weekend a little sleep deprived.
My shower was beautiful! I had lots of fun and I was so glad I could visit with everyone! My favorite part was the food (amazing quiche and berry parfaits!) and decorating the onesies. Everyone was so creative. I am sad that Christopher's mom and grandma didn't make it and that Raeann couldn't come. Thank you to everyone who was able to make it and for making my shower very memorable!
The rest of the weekend was spent running from one meal to the next trying to make sure we spent as much time as we could with everyone. Saturday evening we had dinner at Hops and it was delicious!!! I'm so glad Mikael and Che agreed to drive a little further so we could go to our favorite restaurant!!
Sunday we had lunch with Raeann and then had a big family dinner at my sister Lisa's house for my sister Savannah's 21st birthday (which was really on Christmas). We had a really great time and the home cooked food was so good...yum to Italian!!!
Christmas Eve was for the mothers. We first saw my mom for a few hours and then visited with Christopher's mom and grandma for several hours. It was really great to see everyone!
Christmas was beautiful!! It snowed about 8-10 inches!!! It was SOOO COLD, but a wonderful change from Christmas in California. We had an excellent breakfast with my dad, brother and sister, but we couldn't stay long because it was snowing so hard. Dinner was with Heather and her family, and although it wasn't my traditional Christmas dinner, it was so much fun to share in someone else's Christmas tradition. Her family is hilarious and has some super funny stories!! My stomach hurt so bad from laughing. We really enjoyed ourselves.
On Wednesday before we left we stopped by to spend some time with Mikael and Che. Maile is so adorable!! It was so much fun to watch Christopher with her. He is such a natural and I am even more excited for Cooper to come!
Our flight was an hour delayed coming back so we didn't get home until after 9:30 pm. I had to get up the next morning for work, so that wasn't any fun!
The weekend was very exhausting!! Plus I never sleep as well as I do in my own bed with my own pillow. I think I'm still recovering!! Honestly though, I had a very hard time leaving. Colorado is home to me and although I was coming back to my daily routine and life in California (which I love), it just isn't the same. We are looking foward to moving back next year!!
The baby is about 8 inches from crown to rump and weighs almost 1 pound. The body is becoming proportioned more like a newborn, but the skin is still wrinkled because the baby still has more weight to gain. Lanugo hair on the body sometimes turns darker.
We had a wonderful time back home in Denver this year for Christmas! It was a VERY busy weekend, but we still enjoyed ourselves.
Our flight arrived late because of weather and holiday travel on Friday night. So we didn't go to bed until almost 2 am. Then my baby shower was the next morning at 10:30, so we started the weekend a little sleep deprived.
My shower was beautiful! I had lots of fun and I was so glad I could visit with everyone! My favorite part was the food (amazing quiche and berry parfaits!) and decorating the onesies. Everyone was so creative. I am sad that Christopher's mom and grandma didn't make it and that Raeann couldn't come. Thank you to everyone who was able to make it and for making my shower very memorable!
The rest of the weekend was spent running from one meal to the next trying to make sure we spent as much time as we could with everyone. Saturday evening we had dinner at Hops and it was delicious!!! I'm so glad Mikael and Che agreed to drive a little further so we could go to our favorite restaurant!!
Sunday we had lunch with Raeann and then had a big family dinner at my sister Lisa's house for my sister Savannah's 21st birthday (which was really on Christmas). We had a really great time and the home cooked food was so good...yum to Italian!!!
Christmas Eve was for the mothers. We first saw my mom for a few hours and then visited with Christopher's mom and grandma for several hours. It was really great to see everyone!
Christmas was beautiful!! It snowed about 8-10 inches!!! It was SOOO COLD, but a wonderful change from Christmas in California. We had an excellent breakfast with my dad, brother and sister, but we couldn't stay long because it was snowing so hard. Dinner was with Heather and her family, and although it wasn't my traditional Christmas dinner, it was so much fun to share in someone else's Christmas tradition. Her family is hilarious and has some super funny stories!! My stomach hurt so bad from laughing. We really enjoyed ourselves.
On Wednesday before we left we stopped by to spend some time with Mikael and Che. Maile is so adorable!! It was so much fun to watch Christopher with her. He is such a natural and I am even more excited for Cooper to come!
Our flight was an hour delayed coming back so we didn't get home until after 9:30 pm. I had to get up the next morning for work, so that wasn't any fun!
The weekend was very exhausting!! Plus I never sleep as well as I do in my own bed with my own pillow. I think I'm still recovering!! Honestly though, I had a very hard time leaving. Colorado is home to me and although I was coming back to my daily routine and life in California (which I love), it just isn't the same. We are looking foward to moving back next year!!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
22 weeks, 4 days: Preparation for 3 am feedings
What's happening with the baby (since I forgot to do this on the last entry):
The baby measures 7.6 inches and weighs 12.3 ounces. The muscles are getting stronger every week now, and the eyelids and eyebrows are developed. The baby's acrobatics are pretty constant, and since he responds to sound, rhythm and melody, singing and talking to him my cause him to move. After he's born the same sounds will soothe him.
Baby Cooper has decided that I need preparation for 3 am feedings. This comes only 4 months early! For the last several nights, at 3 am on the dot, he has kicked me so hard that I've woken up. So then he proceeds to kick for at least an hour, sometimes more, which makes it very difficult for me to go back to sleep. I am SOOO tired!! I guess it's only the beginning of several years of sleep deprivation.
It doesn't help that I seem to be fighting a slight cold. I never felt like I got sick, only that I had allergies. No fever, or aches or anything. Then all of sudden my head was stuffed up and now I'm fighting a cough.
Christopher and I were sitting on the couch just being lazy last night. He laid his head next to my belly and starts talking to me. All of sudden, Cooper starts kicking like crazy! I guess he loves his daddy's voice. So cute.
Can I just say how excited I am to go home for Christmas!! I am really looking foward to seeing everyone. Only a couple more days!!!
The baby measures 7.6 inches and weighs 12.3 ounces. The muscles are getting stronger every week now, and the eyelids and eyebrows are developed. The baby's acrobatics are pretty constant, and since he responds to sound, rhythm and melody, singing and talking to him my cause him to move. After he's born the same sounds will soothe him.
Baby Cooper has decided that I need preparation for 3 am feedings. This comes only 4 months early! For the last several nights, at 3 am on the dot, he has kicked me so hard that I've woken up. So then he proceeds to kick for at least an hour, sometimes more, which makes it very difficult for me to go back to sleep. I am SOOO tired!! I guess it's only the beginning of several years of sleep deprivation.
It doesn't help that I seem to be fighting a slight cold. I never felt like I got sick, only that I had allergies. No fever, or aches or anything. Then all of sudden my head was stuffed up and now I'm fighting a cough.
Christopher and I were sitting on the couch just being lazy last night. He laid his head next to my belly and starts talking to me. All of sudden, Cooper starts kicking like crazy! I guess he loves his daddy's voice. So cute.
Can I just say how excited I am to go home for Christmas!! I am really looking foward to seeing everyone. Only a couple more days!!!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
22 weeks: My stomach is squished
We went to my work holiday party on Friday. It was a lot of fun! I got out on the dance floor with my little pregnant belly and danced for a bit. Whew...that was hard work! It's a whole different story to dance with no ab muscles!
My sister had her baby on Friday, too. She had a baby girl, Anabella Jade. She went to the hospital when she started having contractions at noon. By the time she got there it was too late to get an epidural so she had Anabella at 3:30 pm all natural.
My stomach has been officially squished up below my ribs. It's weird to get hunger pains there and even stranger to feel full so soon after I eat. I can barely eat anything in one sitting! I have to eat multiple small meals now. I guess it's healthier that way, anyhow!
We decided on a name! It seemed crazy to use Christopher Jr. because of the birthdays and possible identity issues later. So we decided that if we have another boy we will name him Christopher. The first boy we have will be named Cooper Jacob! At first I wasn't sure if we chose the right name because there are so many names out there! But this week I had a couple dreams that convinced me...
Dream #1:
I had a dream that my mother-in-law called him "Meeks" for a nickname (I have no idea where that came from). I got so upset, I started yelling, "His name is Cooper!! Don't call him anything but Cooper!! Cooper, Cooper, Cooper!!" So funny...I guess I wanted to say the name over and over to convince my self.
Dream #2:
I was living with a family who had a little 2 year old girl and 7 year old boy. I have no idea why I was living with them or where Christopher was. So their little boy started playing tricks on me and made my bath water super hot so that I couldn't take a bath. So I dumped a whole bathtub full of Doritos in for his bath! Then I said "Cooper, no more playing tricks." His mother then suddenly tells me, "Well you can't name your son Cooper if there is already a Cooper in the house." I turned to her and simply said, "I've already chosen a name and he will be named Cooper. It doesn't matter if I already live with a Cooper."
Updated belly pics are posted. And check out this link. It's so funny, we elfed ourselves!
Elves
My sister had her baby on Friday, too. She had a baby girl, Anabella Jade. She went to the hospital when she started having contractions at noon. By the time she got there it was too late to get an epidural so she had Anabella at 3:30 pm all natural.
My stomach has been officially squished up below my ribs. It's weird to get hunger pains there and even stranger to feel full so soon after I eat. I can barely eat anything in one sitting! I have to eat multiple small meals now. I guess it's healthier that way, anyhow!
We decided on a name! It seemed crazy to use Christopher Jr. because of the birthdays and possible identity issues later. So we decided that if we have another boy we will name him Christopher. The first boy we have will be named Cooper Jacob! At first I wasn't sure if we chose the right name because there are so many names out there! But this week I had a couple dreams that convinced me...
Dream #1:
I had a dream that my mother-in-law called him "Meeks" for a nickname (I have no idea where that came from). I got so upset, I started yelling, "His name is Cooper!! Don't call him anything but Cooper!! Cooper, Cooper, Cooper!!" So funny...I guess I wanted to say the name over and over to convince my self.
Dream #2:
I was living with a family who had a little 2 year old girl and 7 year old boy. I have no idea why I was living with them or where Christopher was. So their little boy started playing tricks on me and made my bath water super hot so that I couldn't take a bath. So I dumped a whole bathtub full of Doritos in for his bath! Then I said "Cooper, no more playing tricks." His mother then suddenly tells me, "Well you can't name your son Cooper if there is already a Cooper in the house." I turned to her and simply said, "I've already chosen a name and he will be named Cooper. It doesn't matter if I already live with a Cooper."
Updated belly pics are posted. And check out this link. It's so funny, we elfed ourselves!
Elves
Friday, December 14, 2007
21 weeks, 5 days: Adventures in Registering
Everybody keeps saying I'm glowing--it feels great! I have to say that I do feel really pretty lately. My skin is the best it's ever looked, my hair is thick and shiny, I have long, strong nails and the cutest baby bump! But...I dread clothes shopping!
I had to buy some more pants because the ones I bought a few months ago are feeling tight and uncomfortable. So much for those things growing with you. Everything that's out right now is so big and frumpy! I want to look cute and wear my normal looking clothes...just in maternity. Is that so hard to ask?!? Why am I limited to black, brown, blue, white and baby pink clothes? I love color, so this is hard for me. Plus I'm hot all the time and CA isn't that cold, so I can't even wear the sweaters they have on the racks. I just want my clothes to look great on me so everyone can see how pretty I feel!
I finished (I think) registering this week. Christopher didn't want to do all the small stuff, and I don't blame him, I didn't really want to do it either. So I decided to take two of my girlfriends, Caren and Jennifer, with me. Caren's daughter will be 4 in April, and Jennifer's daughter just turned 2. So they've done this before.
We had a great dinner and then headed over to Baby's-R-Us. It was so funny to watch them go at it. I think they enjoyed it more than I did! They were impressed with some of the things that have come out since they had their children and made sure that I registered for those things. All I heard is:
-You'll need this, oh and scan one of these...okay make it two
-Do you think she'll want this? (Caren) Oh, she'll definitely want that. (Jennifer)
-Scan this, scan this, Salina over here, scan this.
-Here, just give me the scanner
It was hilarious and by the end I had no idea what I registered for and if I got enough of everything. I have since gone back on the registry and taken 10 of the 15 hats off, and registered for some smaller onesies because he only had big ones! I would have had a naked baby with a hat on him!!
Jennifer tried to explain how to make the baby's bed and it seemed like I had to put about 10 things on the bed before I would be able to lay the baby down...and then Caren said, "Don't forget the...", yeah I don't know what she meant or remember what she said. They proceeded to talk about the best way to do and finally agreed (I think). They are just going to have to come over to make the bed for me! :) Thank you so much girls!!!!
Christopher and I went the next day to get all the big stuff. We are very similar in our likes/dislikes and how we shop. The decisions were easy and fast. We were both relieved that it was fast and easy, with no arguments.
I haven't added anything to the Target registry yet because I heard that the return policy is awful. I don't expect to return anything, but if he ends up being a big baby and newborn onesies don't fit or if he hates certain nipples/pacifiers, I would be stuck with items I can't use because of Target's policy. I also found out that Target discontinues a lot of their stuff on a regular basis...so I don't want to make it a headache for anyone.
I had to buy some more pants because the ones I bought a few months ago are feeling tight and uncomfortable. So much for those things growing with you. Everything that's out right now is so big and frumpy! I want to look cute and wear my normal looking clothes...just in maternity. Is that so hard to ask?!? Why am I limited to black, brown, blue, white and baby pink clothes? I love color, so this is hard for me. Plus I'm hot all the time and CA isn't that cold, so I can't even wear the sweaters they have on the racks. I just want my clothes to look great on me so everyone can see how pretty I feel!
I finished (I think) registering this week. Christopher didn't want to do all the small stuff, and I don't blame him, I didn't really want to do it either. So I decided to take two of my girlfriends, Caren and Jennifer, with me. Caren's daughter will be 4 in April, and Jennifer's daughter just turned 2. So they've done this before.
We had a great dinner and then headed over to Baby's-R-Us. It was so funny to watch them go at it. I think they enjoyed it more than I did! They were impressed with some of the things that have come out since they had their children and made sure that I registered for those things. All I heard is:
-You'll need this, oh and scan one of these...okay make it two
-Do you think she'll want this? (Caren) Oh, she'll definitely want that. (Jennifer)
-Scan this, scan this, Salina over here, scan this.
-Here, just give me the scanner
It was hilarious and by the end I had no idea what I registered for and if I got enough of everything. I have since gone back on the registry and taken 10 of the 15 hats off, and registered for some smaller onesies because he only had big ones! I would have had a naked baby with a hat on him!!
Jennifer tried to explain how to make the baby's bed and it seemed like I had to put about 10 things on the bed before I would be able to lay the baby down...and then Caren said, "Don't forget the...", yeah I don't know what she meant or remember what she said. They proceeded to talk about the best way to do and finally agreed (I think). They are just going to have to come over to make the bed for me! :) Thank you so much girls!!!!
Christopher and I went the next day to get all the big stuff. We are very similar in our likes/dislikes and how we shop. The decisions were easy and fast. We were both relieved that it was fast and easy, with no arguments.
I haven't added anything to the Target registry yet because I heard that the return policy is awful. I don't expect to return anything, but if he ends up being a big baby and newborn onesies don't fit or if he hates certain nipples/pacifiers, I would be stuck with items I can't use because of Target's policy. I also found out that Target discontinues a lot of their stuff on a regular basis...so I don't want to make it a headache for anyone.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
21 weeks: Pretty, Pregnant and Graduating
What's happening with the baby:
The baby measures 7.2 inches crown to rump and weighs about 10.5 ounces. The fetus is steadily gaining fat to keep warm. Growth rate is slowing down, but organ systems, like digestion, are continuing to mature. A waxy film, called vermix caseosa, is being produced by the baby's oil glands and covers the baby's skin to keep it supple in the amniotic fluid. Buds for permanent teeth are beginning to form.
I'm officially done!! I have my masters now!!! It was a beautiful day for graduation and it was a great ceremony. The CEO from Fox was our speaker and he was hilarious. He also had some great advice. My favorite--"See what no one else can't, and do what no one else won't."
It was great to have my dad out here. We didn't do much since I'm not up for running around all crazy for a few days. Besides the weather wasn't typical CA weather and was little chilly with rain. We were low key the first day and stayed home to make dinner. We went to a work going away party in Long Beach--free coke and cranberry juice for the pretty, pregnant and graduating!
Graduation day entailed quite a bit of driving (about 2 hours each way to Malibu). For dinner we went to Lazy Dog Cafe (one of my faves out here). Since I couldn't drink I decided to have a non-alcholic drink--a jamaican lemonade. My dad decides to order the same thing. You should have seen the look on his face when it showed up. This is a typical girly fruity looking drink. It's not at all what he expected and it was even funnier when he took a drink. Classic.
Today we took him down to the beach to see the ocean, then watched the Broncos game, then had burgers at Islands. All in all it was a great visit!
The baby was so cute today...he made me laugh with all his moving around. He kicked (or maybe head butted) me really hard and made my whole stomach move. It was wild! Christopher then tried to feel...but the baby always calms down when he puts his hands on my belly.
The pictures below are of the Pepperdine campus in Malibu, Christopher and I, and me and my dad and brother at the ceremonies. Chris got some other great pictures, so I'll load them on shutterfly and post the link (that way if you absolutely must have a picture you can order one). I didn't get any pictures of me dressed nice or with my pregnant belly. I was so hungry and it was a mad house...I was just looking for the fastest way to leave.
The baby measures 7.2 inches crown to rump and weighs about 10.5 ounces. The fetus is steadily gaining fat to keep warm. Growth rate is slowing down, but organ systems, like digestion, are continuing to mature. A waxy film, called vermix caseosa, is being produced by the baby's oil glands and covers the baby's skin to keep it supple in the amniotic fluid. Buds for permanent teeth are beginning to form.
I'm officially done!! I have my masters now!!! It was a beautiful day for graduation and it was a great ceremony. The CEO from Fox was our speaker and he was hilarious. He also had some great advice. My favorite--"See what no one else can't, and do what no one else won't."
It was great to have my dad out here. We didn't do much since I'm not up for running around all crazy for a few days. Besides the weather wasn't typical CA weather and was little chilly with rain. We were low key the first day and stayed home to make dinner. We went to a work going away party in Long Beach--free coke and cranberry juice for the pretty, pregnant and graduating!
Graduation day entailed quite a bit of driving (about 2 hours each way to Malibu). For dinner we went to Lazy Dog Cafe (one of my faves out here). Since I couldn't drink I decided to have a non-alcholic drink--a jamaican lemonade. My dad decides to order the same thing. You should have seen the look on his face when it showed up. This is a typical girly fruity looking drink. It's not at all what he expected and it was even funnier when he took a drink. Classic.
Today we took him down to the beach to see the ocean, then watched the Broncos game, then had burgers at Islands. All in all it was a great visit!
The baby was so cute today...he made me laugh with all his moving around. He kicked (or maybe head butted) me really hard and made my whole stomach move. It was wild! Christopher then tried to feel...but the baby always calms down when he puts his hands on my belly.
The pictures below are of the Pepperdine campus in Malibu, Christopher and I, and me and my dad and brother at the ceremonies. Chris got some other great pictures, so I'll load them on shutterfly and post the link (that way if you absolutely must have a picture you can order one). I didn't get any pictures of me dressed nice or with my pregnant belly. I was so hungry and it was a mad house...I was just looking for the fastest way to leave.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
20 weeks, 4 days: We're having a...
We are very excited to announce that our first child is a BOY!!! I know everyone was dying to know and since my dad is coming out for graduation we can tell him in person. So we thought everyone else should know, too. The money shot is below...he is a big flasher!! I don't think we'll suddenly be surprised with a girl. The poll had 18 votes, and 61% thought we were having a girl and 39% thought we were having a boy.
We had the ultrasound tech put the sex in an envelope for us and we were going to make it special and go out to dinner. But we barely made it home before we ripped it open!! When we first found out, I couldn't quit walking around saying "We're having a boy!!"
We haven't finalized any names yet, but we are thinking about:
Christopher Lee Jr (Depends when he makes his debut. Due date is 4/20, Chris' birthday is 4/16)
Cooper Jacob
Che calls it a little hot dog and has big dreams of our little boy falling in love with their little girl Maile (who wouldn't fall in love with her...she's such a cute little thing!). But Christopher and Mikael feel like it's a little incestuous. I guess they see the kids more as cousins.
We had the ultrasound tech put the sex in an envelope for us and we were going to make it special and go out to dinner. But we barely made it home before we ripped it open!! When we first found out, I couldn't quit walking around saying "We're having a boy!!"
We haven't finalized any names yet, but we are thinking about:
Christopher Lee Jr (Depends when he makes his debut. Due date is 4/20, Chris' birthday is 4/16)
Cooper Jacob
Che calls it a little hot dog and has big dreams of our little boy falling in love with their little girl Maile (who wouldn't fall in love with her...she's such a cute little thing!). But Christopher and Mikael feel like it's a little incestuous. I guess they see the kids more as cousins.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
20 weeks, 2 days: Doggie vs. Daddy Showdown
And on the right we have Daddy! So gentle, so patient, so persistent.
On the left, Doggie, Scout! So wild, so clumsy, and can't-pay-attention-to-any-one-thing-ever.
Daddy takes the first move and places his hand on mommy's tummy! Without missing a beat, Scout immediately begins pawing at daddy's hand...and the battle begins!
Daddy shoves Scout aside...and, oh no, did he miss feeling the baby for the first time?!?
Not to be deterred, Scout jumps back on the couch and rests her head on daddy's hand and then begins to nudge it away with her nose!! She can't let daddy win!
Excitement is building, and daddy is getting desperate, so daddy tells Scout, no! and shoves her away again.
Scout just keeps coming back for more...now she starts chewing on daddy's fingers!
Mommy steps in and saves the day! She gently pins Scout down and allows daddy to FEEL THE BABY MOVE FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!
:) Christopher finally felt the baby move and he was so, so excited. He said it feels like a little tap, but I think it feels like giant punches, kicks and I'm positive the baby thinks my bladder is a trampoline. Christopher can't wait to feel it again!
On the left, Doggie, Scout! So wild, so clumsy, and can't-pay-attention-to-any-one-thing-ever.
Daddy takes the first move and places his hand on mommy's tummy! Without missing a beat, Scout immediately begins pawing at daddy's hand...and the battle begins!
Daddy shoves Scout aside...and, oh no, did he miss feeling the baby for the first time?!?
Not to be deterred, Scout jumps back on the couch and rests her head on daddy's hand and then begins to nudge it away with her nose!! She can't let daddy win!
Excitement is building, and daddy is getting desperate, so daddy tells Scout, no! and shoves her away again.
Scout just keeps coming back for more...now she starts chewing on daddy's fingers!
Mommy steps in and saves the day! She gently pins Scout down and allows daddy to FEEL THE BABY MOVE FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!
:) Christopher finally felt the baby move and he was so, so excited. He said it feels like a little tap, but I think it feels like giant punches, kicks and I'm positive the baby thinks my bladder is a trampoline. Christopher can't wait to feel it again!
Monday, December 3, 2007
20 weeks, 1 day: Crotch Kicker
Dear baby,
Mommy loves you dearly. I know that quarters are kind of cramped right now and it will probably get worse before it gets better. If mommy could give you a bigger apartment, she would. So I am asking you, please, please stop kicking mommy's crotch!! It makes me have feel like I have to go to the bathroom every 2 minutes. Can't wait to see you soon!
love,
Mommy
Mommy loves you dearly. I know that quarters are kind of cramped right now and it will probably get worse before it gets better. If mommy could give you a bigger apartment, she would. So I am asking you, please, please stop kicking mommy's crotch!! It makes me have feel like I have to go to the bathroom every 2 minutes. Can't wait to see you soon!
love,
Mommy
Sunday, December 2, 2007
20 weeks: Christmas in Denver!
What's happening with the baby:
The baby measures 5.6 to 6.4 inches crown to rump and weighs about 9 ounces. The baby can definitely hear sounds now, the mother's voice, heart, and stomach growling as well as sounds outside the mother's body. It will cover its ears if a loud sound is made near the mother and it may even become startled or 'jump'. The baby is moving often now, twisting, turning, wiggling, punching and kicking.
We're going home for Christmas this year!!! This is the first time since we moved to CA over 5 years ago that we will be seeing our family on Christmas. My sister Savannah turns 21 on Christmas day and Heather wants to throw me a baby shower so we thought it's a great time to come home. Plus, since Christopher quit his job (yay, finally!!) we both can get some time off.
We put our tree up earlier than usual this year because I'm in a Christmas spirit. I even baked cookies last night (so what if they were out of the Pillsbury pre-made cookie dough roll!). Scout is super curious about the tree. I wasn't able to decorate the bottom 1 ft or so of the tree because she kept stealing the ornaments. Now she just walks up to the tree and munches on the bottom branches and tries to pull the tree skirt out. It's funny to watch.
Okay...back to doing a little more homework (for the last time!). I just need to finish studying for my final. I updated my belly pics for the 20 week picture. I included a clothed one because Che was asking about it. (By the way if you haven't seen Maile's latest pics, she is quite possibly the prettiest little girl in the world!)
The baby measures 5.6 to 6.4 inches crown to rump and weighs about 9 ounces. The baby can definitely hear sounds now, the mother's voice, heart, and stomach growling as well as sounds outside the mother's body. It will cover its ears if a loud sound is made near the mother and it may even become startled or 'jump'. The baby is moving often now, twisting, turning, wiggling, punching and kicking.
We're going home for Christmas this year!!! This is the first time since we moved to CA over 5 years ago that we will be seeing our family on Christmas. My sister Savannah turns 21 on Christmas day and Heather wants to throw me a baby shower so we thought it's a great time to come home. Plus, since Christopher quit his job (yay, finally!!) we both can get some time off.
We put our tree up earlier than usual this year because I'm in a Christmas spirit. I even baked cookies last night (so what if they were out of the Pillsbury pre-made cookie dough roll!). Scout is super curious about the tree. I wasn't able to decorate the bottom 1 ft or so of the tree because she kept stealing the ornaments. Now she just walks up to the tree and munches on the bottom branches and tries to pull the tree skirt out. It's funny to watch.
Okay...back to doing a little more homework (for the last time!). I just need to finish studying for my final. I updated my belly pics for the 20 week picture. I included a clothed one because Che was asking about it. (By the way if you haven't seen Maile's latest pics, she is quite possibly the prettiest little girl in the world!)
Thursday, November 29, 2007
19 weeks, 4 days: Are you irritated by kisses tonight?
Oh, the stretching, how awful this feels! I swear my ab muscles are pulled apart already!! It hurts so much on my upper abs, plus I feel like I'm bruised from the inside from all the kicking this crazy kid does! I'm complaining, but I'm still smiling...in reality, I love it all!
Christopher is super sweet. He tucks me into bed every night, and has done so since we started dating. Here are the steps to tucking me into bed:
1. Salina yells, 'Goodnight!' across the house
2. Chris says 'I'm coming!' across the house.
3. Salina crawls into the unmade bed and waits patiently with all the lights still on
4. Chris comes in the room, makes the bed on Salina.
5. Chris kisses Salina's forehead and then her lips.
6. Chris turns the lights off, says 'Goodnight, I love you. Have a good day tomorrow."
7. Salina says 'Goodnight, I love you too."
Well last week, I told him that for no reason at all I am getting irritated by the kissing before bed. So he says that's okay and now this is how the tucking-in goes:
Follow steps 1-4.
Insert new step before 5, we can call it 4P for pregnancy:
4P. Chris asks 'Are you irritated by kisses tonight?" Salina says yes, no, or which kiss she is irritated by (lips or forehead).
Step 5 is modified based on Salina's answers.
Follow steps 6-7.
So cute! I love how understanding he is being with my strange requests and crazy emotions!
Christopher is super sweet. He tucks me into bed every night, and has done so since we started dating. Here are the steps to tucking me into bed:
1. Salina yells, 'Goodnight!' across the house
2. Chris says 'I'm coming!' across the house.
3. Salina crawls into the unmade bed and waits patiently with all the lights still on
4. Chris comes in the room, makes the bed on Salina.
5. Chris kisses Salina's forehead and then her lips.
6. Chris turns the lights off, says 'Goodnight, I love you. Have a good day tomorrow."
7. Salina says 'Goodnight, I love you too."
Well last week, I told him that for no reason at all I am getting irritated by the kissing before bed. So he says that's okay and now this is how the tucking-in goes:
Follow steps 1-4.
Insert new step before 5, we can call it 4P for pregnancy:
4P. Chris asks 'Are you irritated by kisses tonight?" Salina says yes, no, or which kiss she is irritated by (lips or forehead).
Step 5 is modified based on Salina's answers.
Follow steps 6-7.
So cute! I love how understanding he is being with my strange requests and crazy emotions!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
19 weeks, 3 days: Trapped!
Oh my, what a week! We had turkey dinner last week, which was very good. It was really great to see Jason! I was so tired after I was done cooking, though. This year Christopher really stepped up and helped out since I couldn't lift the turkey up to clean it, pull it out of the fridge, or put it in the oven. It was fun to prepare some of the dinner together.
I had my final presenatation for Strategy last night. It went really well and I'm looking foward to being done with class next week. My dad and brother are flying out for graduation and I can't wait to see them both!! I honestly can't believe I'll have a masters. Where did the time go?? And what did I do with myself before school started?!?
We had our prenatal appointment on Monday. It was super quick and a waste of time. We were in and out in 30 min. The good news is that I've only gained 5 lbs total--which the doctor said is perfect for how far along I am. It's a good thing the baby has better eating habits than I do, or I'm sure I would be triple that! The baby just doesn't like sugar all that much, so I eat lots of fruit and veggies.
The nurse had a really hard time finding the heart beat this time because the baby kept moving all over. She finally got it--143-145 bpm. The doctor also couldn't believe that I feel movement every day now. The baby is getting stronger all the time (and I love the little animated baby at the top of the blog...it looks so cute now!). I think the kid is doing aerobics or karate in there! Yesterday the baby kicked so hard I sat up straight and took notice. It was almost painful, but more just surprising. So strange to have part of your body move involuntarily.
I think I have opposite of body dysmorphic disorder (and I don't intend to make light of this disorder...I just have no other way to describe it). People with this disorder can get pre-occupied with an imagined problem with their body. I'm the opposite. I think I look completely normal. When I look in the mirror, I see the same Salina I've always seen. It's like I can't see myself pregnant. Well, until yesterday morning. I caught a glimpse of my profile as I walked by the mirror to get in the shower and I had to back track! I thought, that can't possibly be me--that woman definitely looks very pregnant!! Did I just get a belly overnight?? I even used to look at my belly pics without really seeing them, or I guess I didn't see them as me. Not anymore...I'm obsessed with my cute pregnant self now. Especially since it feels more like a pregnant belly--it's getting harder now.
Last night in class for the first time I physically could not bend at the waist. I used to be able to, or at least I still had a range of motion somewhere near my waist. Not anymore, I guess. I dropped something on the floor while I was sitting down and I went to bend over to pick it up. My body just stopped, mid-way. So weird. I had to scoot to the end of my chair and move my legs to pick the item up.
The no bending at the waist got in the way again today! We have to scan our parking passes to get in the parking garage for work and I dropped mine ouside of my car just below my car door. So I opened my car door and realized I couldn't bend down to get it. I also couldn't get out of my car because I couldn't squeeze out with my belly. Good thing I had carpooled with coworkers--one of them got out and got my pass for me. Otherwise I would have been trapped!
I had my final presenatation for Strategy last night. It went really well and I'm looking foward to being done with class next week. My dad and brother are flying out for graduation and I can't wait to see them both!! I honestly can't believe I'll have a masters. Where did the time go?? And what did I do with myself before school started?!?
We had our prenatal appointment on Monday. It was super quick and a waste of time. We were in and out in 30 min. The good news is that I've only gained 5 lbs total--which the doctor said is perfect for how far along I am. It's a good thing the baby has better eating habits than I do, or I'm sure I would be triple that! The baby just doesn't like sugar all that much, so I eat lots of fruit and veggies.
The nurse had a really hard time finding the heart beat this time because the baby kept moving all over. She finally got it--143-145 bpm. The doctor also couldn't believe that I feel movement every day now. The baby is getting stronger all the time (and I love the little animated baby at the top of the blog...it looks so cute now!). I think the kid is doing aerobics or karate in there! Yesterday the baby kicked so hard I sat up straight and took notice. It was almost painful, but more just surprising. So strange to have part of your body move involuntarily.
I think I have opposite of body dysmorphic disorder (and I don't intend to make light of this disorder...I just have no other way to describe it). People with this disorder can get pre-occupied with an imagined problem with their body. I'm the opposite. I think I look completely normal. When I look in the mirror, I see the same Salina I've always seen. It's like I can't see myself pregnant. Well, until yesterday morning. I caught a glimpse of my profile as I walked by the mirror to get in the shower and I had to back track! I thought, that can't possibly be me--that woman definitely looks very pregnant!! Did I just get a belly overnight?? I even used to look at my belly pics without really seeing them, or I guess I didn't see them as me. Not anymore...I'm obsessed with my cute pregnant self now. Especially since it feels more like a pregnant belly--it's getting harder now.
Last night in class for the first time I physically could not bend at the waist. I used to be able to, or at least I still had a range of motion somewhere near my waist. Not anymore, I guess. I dropped something on the floor while I was sitting down and I went to bend over to pick it up. My body just stopped, mid-way. So weird. I had to scoot to the end of my chair and move my legs to pick the item up.
The no bending at the waist got in the way again today! We have to scan our parking passes to get in the parking garage for work and I dropped mine ouside of my car just below my car door. So I opened my car door and realized I couldn't bend down to get it. I also couldn't get out of my car because I couldn't squeeze out with my belly. Good thing I had carpooled with coworkers--one of them got out and got my pass for me. Otherwise I would have been trapped!
Sunday, November 25, 2007
19 weeks: Belly Stares
What's happening with the baby:
The baby measures 5.2 to 6 inches from crown to rump and weighs 7 ounces. Skin is developing and transparent, appearing red because the blood vessels are visible through it. Creamy white protective coating, called vermix, begins to develop.
I went out shopping today, just to get out of the house. It was nice since I've stayed home the entire turkey day weekend in hopes of avoiding all the crazy Christmas shopping. That and I was doing lots of homework. Can you believe I only have 2 weeks left?!? I can't wait!
In California, everyone stares. I mean really stares. They stare you up and down and when you look at them, they just continue staring. I guess everyone is really curious about each other. Well, I realized today that I wasn't being stared at anymore...just my belly was!! I've always stared at preganant women, thinking wow, amazing that that can happen--look how pretty they look. Well, now that I'm on the opposite end, it's a strange feeling to just have your belly stared at. Guess I definitely look pregnant!
I had a craving the other night. I tell you, I must stop watching TV. Any time I see a commercial for food, I instantly crave whatever I'm seeing. I've never been this easily manipulated by advertising before! So I send Christopher to the store (he practically begged me to go--seems he thinks my job is to carry the baby and his is to make midnight runs to the store for me). I tell him I really want kit-kats and he asks if there is anything else. Uh, yep, chocolate milk and grape juice, please. He does a double-take, smiles and says uh, okay, be back in a few.
Kit-kats: yum, yum, yum (ate one that night)
Chocolate milk: mmm, not as good as I thought. I had it after lunch the next day and it reminded me too much like Ensure protein drink that I drank in the first trimester to curb the hunger.
Grape juice: Oh. my. gosh. SO GOOD!!! I had a glass with dinner and I don't think anything has tasted so good in my life!!!
Our doctor appointment is tomorrow. Let's see how long I have to wait this time for a 10 min appointment. I think these appointments are a waste of my time!
The baby measures 5.2 to 6 inches from crown to rump and weighs 7 ounces. Skin is developing and transparent, appearing red because the blood vessels are visible through it. Creamy white protective coating, called vermix, begins to develop.
I went out shopping today, just to get out of the house. It was nice since I've stayed home the entire turkey day weekend in hopes of avoiding all the crazy Christmas shopping. That and I was doing lots of homework. Can you believe I only have 2 weeks left?!? I can't wait!
In California, everyone stares. I mean really stares. They stare you up and down and when you look at them, they just continue staring. I guess everyone is really curious about each other. Well, I realized today that I wasn't being stared at anymore...just my belly was!! I've always stared at preganant women, thinking wow, amazing that that can happen--look how pretty they look. Well, now that I'm on the opposite end, it's a strange feeling to just have your belly stared at. Guess I definitely look pregnant!
I had a craving the other night. I tell you, I must stop watching TV. Any time I see a commercial for food, I instantly crave whatever I'm seeing. I've never been this easily manipulated by advertising before! So I send Christopher to the store (he practically begged me to go--seems he thinks my job is to carry the baby and his is to make midnight runs to the store for me). I tell him I really want kit-kats and he asks if there is anything else. Uh, yep, chocolate milk and grape juice, please. He does a double-take, smiles and says uh, okay, be back in a few.
Kit-kats: yum, yum, yum (ate one that night)
Chocolate milk: mmm, not as good as I thought. I had it after lunch the next day and it reminded me too much like Ensure protein drink that I drank in the first trimester to curb the hunger.
Grape juice: Oh. my. gosh. SO GOOD!!! I had a glass with dinner and I don't think anything has tasted so good in my life!!!
Our doctor appointment is tomorrow. Let's see how long I have to wait this time for a 10 min appointment. I think these appointments are a waste of my time!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
18 weeks, 2 days: My belly moved!!
I saw the baby move from the outside today!! I also felt it move when my hand was sitting on my belly. It was so amazing!! I can't wait for Christopher to feel it.
We went out to dinner tonight to celebrate and relax, since Christopher had a bad day at work. We went to Claim Jumpers, which for you Coloradans, is a steakhouse with GIANT portions. I mean the plates are more than a foot long and everything is giant sized. It's like eating in the giant sized Mario world!
Pre-pregnancy Claim Jumper meal:
Me: Order baby back ribs and a salad first. Eat the entire salad, then 2 bites of the mashed potatoes, 1 bite of the garlic cheese toast, and 2 ribs. Push my plate away and be stuffed to the max.
Christopher: Order steak, and a cup of soup first. Eat all of the soup, both pieces of the garlic cheese toast, 1 of his cheese potato cakes, and 1/4 of the giant steak.
Post-pregnancy Claim Jumper meal:
Me: Same order as above. Eat entire salad, 75% of the mashed potatoes, both pieces of garlic cheese toast, the entire rack of ribs, and 2 more bites of the potatoes. I began eying Christopher's steak and he quickly says "Back off, you can't have any of mine." He started smiling at me and suddenly I am very aware of how pregnant I must look with an empty plate, fingers dripping with bbq sauce and devouring his steak with my eyes. So funny!
Him: Same ritual as above, while warding me off from stealing his steak.
At any rate, we had a good time and a great meal.
And thanks to soon-to-be Grandma Jacqueline for all the wonderful cards and first baby blanket! You are so thoughtful!
I posted the 18 week belly pic if you're interested.
We went out to dinner tonight to celebrate and relax, since Christopher had a bad day at work. We went to Claim Jumpers, which for you Coloradans, is a steakhouse with GIANT portions. I mean the plates are more than a foot long and everything is giant sized. It's like eating in the giant sized Mario world!
Pre-pregnancy Claim Jumper meal:
Me: Order baby back ribs and a salad first. Eat the entire salad, then 2 bites of the mashed potatoes, 1 bite of the garlic cheese toast, and 2 ribs. Push my plate away and be stuffed to the max.
Christopher: Order steak, and a cup of soup first. Eat all of the soup, both pieces of the garlic cheese toast, 1 of his cheese potato cakes, and 1/4 of the giant steak.
Post-pregnancy Claim Jumper meal:
Me: Same order as above. Eat entire salad, 75% of the mashed potatoes, both pieces of garlic cheese toast, the entire rack of ribs, and 2 more bites of the potatoes. I began eying Christopher's steak and he quickly says "Back off, you can't have any of mine." He started smiling at me and suddenly I am very aware of how pregnant I must look with an empty plate, fingers dripping with bbq sauce and devouring his steak with my eyes. So funny!
Him: Same ritual as above, while warding me off from stealing his steak.
At any rate, we had a good time and a great meal.
And thanks to soon-to-be Grandma Jacqueline for all the wonderful cards and first baby blanket! You are so thoughtful!
I posted the 18 week belly pic if you're interested.
Monday, November 19, 2007
18 weels, 1 day: Ultrasound
What's happening with the baby:
The baby measures 5.5 to 5.6 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 5.25 ounces. The growth spurt is tapering off, but reflexes are kicking in. It can yawn, stretch, make facial expressions, even frown. Taste buds are beginning to develop and can distinguish between sweet and bitter tastes. The baby will suck if it's lips are touched, and it can swallow, and even get the hiccups. The retinas have become sensitive to light so if a bright light is shined on the mother's abdomen, the baby will move to shield its eyes.
We had our ultrasound today! The heartbeat was 133 bpm. The baby measured a few days ahead, so the estimated due date based on measurements is April 16th--Christopher's birthday!! But, I doubt the doctor will move the official due date since the baby will come when it wants!
The baby was so cute moving all around with it's tiny hands and feet. It took about an hour and we got tons of pictures. And for those of you who are dying to know...we were able to get the money shot--but you'll have to weight until Christmas! (Now I have to do extra proof-reading on the blog to make sure I don't slip!)
Here are some great pictures:
Profile:
Peek-a-boo:
Long legs:
The baby measures 5.5 to 5.6 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 5.25 ounces. The growth spurt is tapering off, but reflexes are kicking in. It can yawn, stretch, make facial expressions, even frown. Taste buds are beginning to develop and can distinguish between sweet and bitter tastes. The baby will suck if it's lips are touched, and it can swallow, and even get the hiccups. The retinas have become sensitive to light so if a bright light is shined on the mother's abdomen, the baby will move to shield its eyes.
We had our ultrasound today! The heartbeat was 133 bpm. The baby measured a few days ahead, so the estimated due date based on measurements is April 16th--Christopher's birthday!! But, I doubt the doctor will move the official due date since the baby will come when it wants!
The baby was so cute moving all around with it's tiny hands and feet. It took about an hour and we got tons of pictures. And for those of you who are dying to know...we were able to get the money shot--but you'll have to weight until Christmas! (Now I have to do extra proof-reading on the blog to make sure I don't slip!)
Here are some great pictures:
Profile:
Peek-a-boo:
Long legs:
Thursday, November 15, 2007
17 weeks, 4 days: Puppies for Sale!
Another weird dream...
I had a dream I was sleeping and I woke up on our couch with a heavy blanket on me. I was very confused and Scout was doing her crazy kangaroo hops all over the living room. I look down, and no more baby bump. I'm also feeling very tired.
Christopher comes walking through the door with our 'bundle of joy'. I realize at some point I have given birth, but I have absolutely no memory of it. I ask him, "Did I give birth?" He said, "Yes, last night. It went really fast and after about 3 hours I brought you home. You fell asleep so I went back to the hospital." I think 'What?!? I don't remember it and I went home 3 hours later? Is that even possible?' He promptly hands me the blanket with our 'bundle of joy' and I open it to find 6 tiny beagle puppies!! Then he takes the blanket and puppies away from me and sets them on the floor. Scout begins licking them and feeding them.
At this point I am so weirded out, but Christopher nonchalantly says "They're all healthy. Scout is a very proud mama and I'm sure she's thankful!" Again, I am so confused and ask "I gave birth to puppies?!? Where's the baby?" Christopher says, "Well sure, Scout can't have puppies of her own! The baby's at the hospital and I'm going back to bring the baby home this afternoon." I ask how I got pregnant with puppies, and he says it was because I kiss Scout all the time. Then he promptly kisses me on the head and leaves, I guess to get our baby!
I think to myself, 'Let me get this straight. I was a surrogate mother for my dog because we got her spayed. I first gave birth to 6 tiny beagle puppies because I kissed my dog too much, then I gave birth to a baby? And I have absolutely no memory of this?!? What the hell is wrong with my husband?"
I woke up very confused and had to go to the bathroom very badly. I think I'm obsessed with my dog. First I breastfed her, and now I'm having her puppies?!?! Enough with the dog already! (By the way, I know for a fact you don't get pregant by kissing too much!)
I had a dream I was sleeping and I woke up on our couch with a heavy blanket on me. I was very confused and Scout was doing her crazy kangaroo hops all over the living room. I look down, and no more baby bump. I'm also feeling very tired.
Christopher comes walking through the door with our 'bundle of joy'. I realize at some point I have given birth, but I have absolutely no memory of it. I ask him, "Did I give birth?" He said, "Yes, last night. It went really fast and after about 3 hours I brought you home. You fell asleep so I went back to the hospital." I think 'What?!? I don't remember it and I went home 3 hours later? Is that even possible?' He promptly hands me the blanket with our 'bundle of joy' and I open it to find 6 tiny beagle puppies!! Then he takes the blanket and puppies away from me and sets them on the floor. Scout begins licking them and feeding them.
At this point I am so weirded out, but Christopher nonchalantly says "They're all healthy. Scout is a very proud mama and I'm sure she's thankful!" Again, I am so confused and ask "I gave birth to puppies?!? Where's the baby?" Christopher says, "Well sure, Scout can't have puppies of her own! The baby's at the hospital and I'm going back to bring the baby home this afternoon." I ask how I got pregnant with puppies, and he says it was because I kiss Scout all the time. Then he promptly kisses me on the head and leaves, I guess to get our baby!
I think to myself, 'Let me get this straight. I was a surrogate mother for my dog because we got her spayed. I first gave birth to 6 tiny beagle puppies because I kissed my dog too much, then I gave birth to a baby? And I have absolutely no memory of this?!? What the hell is wrong with my husband?"
I woke up very confused and had to go to the bathroom very badly. I think I'm obsessed with my dog. First I breastfed her, and now I'm having her puppies?!?! Enough with the dog already! (By the way, I know for a fact you don't get pregant by kissing too much!)
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
17 weeks, 3 days: Let's get it on
Some pregnancy books say the baby can hear the outside world now, but some say it won't happen for another couple of weeks. Either the following story is a coincidence, or the baby can hear things now!
I was driving to work today and flipping through the radio stations. I coudn't really find anything I wanted to listen to, especially now that some of the radio stations in CA are changing their music style. I keep forgetting to put CD's in my car, so I usually have to settle for something on the radio and listen to those annoying DJ's. I stopped on the song "Let's get it on", which I wasn't in the mood to listen to. The baby starting groovin' like crazy! Lot's of pokes and wiggles--it made me laugh out loud! Just to see if it was because of the song, I changed the station and sure enough, all quiet on the belly front. I change it back to the song and the kid is a dance machine!!
Of all songs for a baby to like--"Let's get it on"?? I think it's hilarious. I called Christopher to tell him and after he hung up on me (I hope by accident), he called me back. I told him and he started laughing too. I think it could be a boy based on the choice of music, afterall Christopher also loves that song. Of course if the baby is dancing then I would guess it's a girl, since I love to dance! Guess we'll know in about a week!
I was driving to work today and flipping through the radio stations. I coudn't really find anything I wanted to listen to, especially now that some of the radio stations in CA are changing their music style. I keep forgetting to put CD's in my car, so I usually have to settle for something on the radio and listen to those annoying DJ's. I stopped on the song "Let's get it on", which I wasn't in the mood to listen to. The baby starting groovin' like crazy! Lot's of pokes and wiggles--it made me laugh out loud! Just to see if it was because of the song, I changed the station and sure enough, all quiet on the belly front. I change it back to the song and the kid is a dance machine!!
Of all songs for a baby to like--"Let's get it on"?? I think it's hilarious. I called Christopher to tell him and after he hung up on me (I hope by accident), he called me back. I told him and he started laughing too. I think it could be a boy based on the choice of music, afterall Christopher also loves that song. Of course if the baby is dancing then I would guess it's a girl, since I love to dance! Guess we'll know in about a week!
Sunday, November 11, 2007
17 weeks: Just realized *WHERE* babies come from
What's happening to the baby:
The baby measures 4.4 to 4.8 inches from crown to rump and has doubled in weight in the last two weeks, now weighing 3.5 ounces. Fat is beginning to form helping the baby's heat production and metabolism. The lungs are beginning to exhale amniotic fluid, and the cirulatory and urinary systems are working. Hair on the head, eyebrows, and eyelashes is filling in.
Have you noticed the animated fetus is getting bigger and not so creepy looking? Pretty cool...except it's poor leg is tangled in the umbilical cord. Oh, and the baby is getting fatter...too bad I can't blame the baby for the extra 3 lbs that showed up over the last week! Yeah, you read that right, 3 lbs in one week!!
Today was very productive. I cleaned the house (really just picked up since the maids came this week), did the laundry, walked the dog, went grocery shopping, finished all of my homework, met with my group for school, got a pedicure, made dinner, and even squeezed in a nap! I feel really good.
I'm so sad...I got my first stretch mark a few days ago. And it's on my boob!!! How unfair is that?!? I swear with the dark, bumpy nipples and now the stretch marks radiating from them, I'm waiting for them to start blinking so as to entice the baby 'here it is, you can't miss me!' Not lovin' this part of pregnancy!
This weekend I really thought about *where* the baby comes from and I don't see how it's going to be possible to squeeze an entire human out of that little thing! I guess my body will figure it out. So I've decided it's time to start preparing myself for the pain of labor:
Yesterday I went and got my first bikini wax while being pregnant. You see, my belly is in the way and I can no longer reach with a razor (how long till I can't shave my legs?!?!). Since I am very girly and firmly believe in grooming myself, I just can't let it get all wild! Especially since the pre-natal vitamins and hormones make all of my body hair grow on super-speed. I've had many bikini waxes and although it's uncomfortable, it's not really that bad. My opinion has completely changed!!! It was so painful I wanted to cry. Apparently the area is a lot more sensitive while being pregnant. So after the 25 minutes of torture, I've now had 2 days of discomfort and pain. No fun. I'm rethinking the whole grooming thing.
You can see the updated belly pic now. I think my belly is changing shape...maybe I lost some bloat and gained some baby?
The baby measures 4.4 to 4.8 inches from crown to rump and has doubled in weight in the last two weeks, now weighing 3.5 ounces. Fat is beginning to form helping the baby's heat production and metabolism. The lungs are beginning to exhale amniotic fluid, and the cirulatory and urinary systems are working. Hair on the head, eyebrows, and eyelashes is filling in.
Have you noticed the animated fetus is getting bigger and not so creepy looking? Pretty cool...except it's poor leg is tangled in the umbilical cord. Oh, and the baby is getting fatter...too bad I can't blame the baby for the extra 3 lbs that showed up over the last week! Yeah, you read that right, 3 lbs in one week!!
Today was very productive. I cleaned the house (really just picked up since the maids came this week), did the laundry, walked the dog, went grocery shopping, finished all of my homework, met with my group for school, got a pedicure, made dinner, and even squeezed in a nap! I feel really good.
I'm so sad...I got my first stretch mark a few days ago. And it's on my boob!!! How unfair is that?!? I swear with the dark, bumpy nipples and now the stretch marks radiating from them, I'm waiting for them to start blinking so as to entice the baby 'here it is, you can't miss me!' Not lovin' this part of pregnancy!
This weekend I really thought about *where* the baby comes from and I don't see how it's going to be possible to squeeze an entire human out of that little thing! I guess my body will figure it out. So I've decided it's time to start preparing myself for the pain of labor:
Yesterday I went and got my first bikini wax while being pregnant. You see, my belly is in the way and I can no longer reach with a razor (how long till I can't shave my legs?!?!). Since I am very girly and firmly believe in grooming myself, I just can't let it get all wild! Especially since the pre-natal vitamins and hormones make all of my body hair grow on super-speed. I've had many bikini waxes and although it's uncomfortable, it's not really that bad. My opinion has completely changed!!! It was so painful I wanted to cry. Apparently the area is a lot more sensitive while being pregnant. So after the 25 minutes of torture, I've now had 2 days of discomfort and pain. No fun. I'm rethinking the whole grooming thing.
You can see the updated belly pic now. I think my belly is changing shape...maybe I lost some bloat and gained some baby?
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
16 weeks, 3 days: Crazy dreams...
What's happening with the baby:
The baby now measures 4.3 to 4.6 inches crown to rump and weighs 2.8 ounces. Fingernails are well formed and the fine hair, lanugo, may be growing on the head. Arms and legs are moving. The nervous system is functioning and muscles are responding to stimulation from the baby's brain.
I had a dream last night that I had a baby boy! And he was so adorable...just a perfect little angel. He looked like a mix of me and Christopher. He had dark hair, but light eyes and had the surprised/sad look on his face that Christopher sometimes gets. In my dream, I took him to work when he was about 2 months old to meet everyone, but work was more like a ghost town. It was very bizarre and I started to panic that I wouldn't have a job after taking 4 months off from work. It was also extremely hot at work.
My interpretation: I don't know what I'm having. At this point I don't put much stock in my dreams foretelling the future, since I also had a dream that I breastfed our dog!!! (That was just plain scary--all those sharp teeth coming right towards my boob. Almost enough to make me rethink breastfeeding all together!) But he was a cute little boy--and I would be just as happy with a cute little girl! As for the rest of it, I think it's just my fears coming out in my dreams. I'm concerned that I will be viewed differently at work because I am a mom, or I wonder how I will adjust to re-prioritizing my life. All normal I guess. About being hot...I must have slept with too many blankets!
I am also having the weird stretching feeling again in my belly. It feels like I've done 200 situps and all I have to show for it is a bigger baby belly! So uncomfortable. Not much else to report. I wasn't able to take a 16 week belly pic because I had to travel for work. I will take a 17 week one instead.
Also, if you haven't seen the funny Pokeman Card Ebay post, I have a link on my blog. Make sure you read it...it is one of the funniest things I have ever read. I also posted the blog from the mom who made that Ebay post. I would recommend reading her 'Favorite Posts' (link on the right side of her blog), especially the Welcome and Resignation Letter. She is hysterical!
The baby now measures 4.3 to 4.6 inches crown to rump and weighs 2.8 ounces. Fingernails are well formed and the fine hair, lanugo, may be growing on the head. Arms and legs are moving. The nervous system is functioning and muscles are responding to stimulation from the baby's brain.
I had a dream last night that I had a baby boy! And he was so adorable...just a perfect little angel. He looked like a mix of me and Christopher. He had dark hair, but light eyes and had the surprised/sad look on his face that Christopher sometimes gets. In my dream, I took him to work when he was about 2 months old to meet everyone, but work was more like a ghost town. It was very bizarre and I started to panic that I wouldn't have a job after taking 4 months off from work. It was also extremely hot at work.
My interpretation: I don't know what I'm having. At this point I don't put much stock in my dreams foretelling the future, since I also had a dream that I breastfed our dog!!! (That was just plain scary--all those sharp teeth coming right towards my boob. Almost enough to make me rethink breastfeeding all together!) But he was a cute little boy--and I would be just as happy with a cute little girl! As for the rest of it, I think it's just my fears coming out in my dreams. I'm concerned that I will be viewed differently at work because I am a mom, or I wonder how I will adjust to re-prioritizing my life. All normal I guess. About being hot...I must have slept with too many blankets!
I am also having the weird stretching feeling again in my belly. It feels like I've done 200 situps and all I have to show for it is a bigger baby belly! So uncomfortable. Not much else to report. I wasn't able to take a 16 week belly pic because I had to travel for work. I will take a 17 week one instead.
Also, if you haven't seen the funny Pokeman Card Ebay post, I have a link on my blog. Make sure you read it...it is one of the funniest things I have ever read. I also posted the blog from the mom who made that Ebay post. I would recommend reading her 'Favorite Posts' (link on the right side of her blog), especially the Welcome and Resignation Letter. She is hysterical!
Friday, November 2, 2007
15 weeks, 5 days: Poke, Poke, Poke!
The baby went poke, poke, poke yesterday!!!! It felt like if you put your hand on a bag of water with a goldfish in it. So cool!! Still a little strange because it's new, but I love the poke, poke, poke much better than the flutters. I can't wait to feel it again!
I sent a text message to Christopher, but he left his phone in his car. He called me when he got off work and I could hear the smile in his voice.
Him: So you felt the baby move?
Me: Yep.
Him: That's so cool!
Me: Hopefully by Christmas you'll be able to feel it.
Him: That's so cool! I can't wait!
I sent a text message to Christopher, but he left his phone in his car. He called me when he got off work and I could hear the smile in his voice.
Him: So you felt the baby move?
Me: Yep.
Him: That's so cool!
Me: Hopefully by Christmas you'll be able to feel it.
Him: That's so cool! I can't wait!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
15 weeks, 3 days: Happy Halloween!!
We had a fun year this year. Low key, but fun! Jessica threw a Halloween Party at her house in Temecula on Saturday, so we drove out to see her! It was a great party and we met a few new people. There were lot's of couples and everyone had fantastic costumes. Sexy nurse/hot doctor; The boss/His secretary; Superman/Lois Lane. So fun!!
Check out our costumes! He was the baker and I was the bun in the oven! I made my shirt by designing the bun/oven using Word drawing tools, then printed it on iron-on paper. The shirt was available online for $40, but I made it for about $20. Great deal!
The party was the first time I had someone feel my belly and I've been a little worried about how I would feel about that. Jessica was the first to do it and since she is a really good friend, I didn't mind at all! If it would have been a stranger, I think I would have been a little put off by it.
On the way home from the party we became so enthralled with each other and the conversation that we were having that we completely missed the exit for the 91! We had to turn around and go back...good thing we noticed fairly soon after it happened or we would have been on our way to Vegas! We had a really great time at the party and it was fun to spend time with each other in the car on the way home.
We carved pumpkins on Sunday evening. This year I bought 3 pumpkins, so Scout would have her own. In reality, I just wanted to buy the pumpkins for the seeds...mmmmm, toasted pumpkin seeds!! I bought one big pumpkin for Christopher and 2 smaller ones for me to carve.
So I get everything prepared after dinner and then search the internet for face ideas. I draw on my first face and then draw the second face on the other pumpkin. In the mean time Christopher is still working on coming up with something. I then proceed to cut into the first pumpkin, all the while I have Scout sniffing my toes, hoping desperately that food will just show up (yes this is what our dog believes...it doesn't help that I drop food while cooking). I reach into the first pumpkin and begin pulling out....greenery?!?!? Where are the seeds?? I keep pulling stuff out and there are some seeds, but lots of plants! The pumpkin seeds started growing right inside the pumpkin!!! So much for seeds from that pumpkin...but at least I got a cute face out of it.
I start on the second pumpkin and I reach in and begin pulling out the guts. Okay, so I'm thinking that these guts feel a bit mushier than they should. Sure enough I get them out and realize the pumpkin has already begun rotting!!! Ewwww, gross! We used this pumpkin for the trash and then threw it away. Christopher's pumpkin was the only one that had good seeds, plus he carved a super cute face on it.
Scout wasn't so sure about the pumpkins though.
On Halloween night we just stayed home and gave out candy to all the trick or treaters. Scout just barked at all of them. Too scary for her I guess!
Hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!!
Check out our costumes! He was the baker and I was the bun in the oven! I made my shirt by designing the bun/oven using Word drawing tools, then printed it on iron-on paper. The shirt was available online for $40, but I made it for about $20. Great deal!
The party was the first time I had someone feel my belly and I've been a little worried about how I would feel about that. Jessica was the first to do it and since she is a really good friend, I didn't mind at all! If it would have been a stranger, I think I would have been a little put off by it.
On the way home from the party we became so enthralled with each other and the conversation that we were having that we completely missed the exit for the 91! We had to turn around and go back...good thing we noticed fairly soon after it happened or we would have been on our way to Vegas! We had a really great time at the party and it was fun to spend time with each other in the car on the way home.
We carved pumpkins on Sunday evening. This year I bought 3 pumpkins, so Scout would have her own. In reality, I just wanted to buy the pumpkins for the seeds...mmmmm, toasted pumpkin seeds!! I bought one big pumpkin for Christopher and 2 smaller ones for me to carve.
So I get everything prepared after dinner and then search the internet for face ideas. I draw on my first face and then draw the second face on the other pumpkin. In the mean time Christopher is still working on coming up with something. I then proceed to cut into the first pumpkin, all the while I have Scout sniffing my toes, hoping desperately that food will just show up (yes this is what our dog believes...it doesn't help that I drop food while cooking). I reach into the first pumpkin and begin pulling out....greenery?!?!? Where are the seeds?? I keep pulling stuff out and there are some seeds, but lots of plants! The pumpkin seeds started growing right inside the pumpkin!!! So much for seeds from that pumpkin...but at least I got a cute face out of it.
I start on the second pumpkin and I reach in and begin pulling out the guts. Okay, so I'm thinking that these guts feel a bit mushier than they should. Sure enough I get them out and realize the pumpkin has already begun rotting!!! Ewwww, gross! We used this pumpkin for the trash and then threw it away. Christopher's pumpkin was the only one that had good seeds, plus he carved a super cute face on it.
Scout wasn't so sure about the pumpkins though.
On Halloween night we just stayed home and gave out candy to all the trick or treaters. Scout just barked at all of them. Too scary for her I guess!
Hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
15 weeks 2 days: Prenatal Appointment #2
What's happening with the baby:
The fetus now measures 4.1 to 4.5 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 1.75 ounces. Its body is covered in ultrafine hair, called lanugo, which is usually shed by birth. Eyebrows and hair on the top of the head are beginning to grow. The baby may even be sucking its thumb by now. The bones are also getting harder.
We had our second doctor appointment today and actually got to meet the doctor for the first time! Dr. Jennifer Lee is fairly young and I am very happy with my blind choice (remember I was only handed a sheet of paper with doctor's names on it)! She is very down to earth, easy to talk to, and has a great personality.
The heartbeat was at 146 bpm so the baby is doing well. Momma is also doing well since all the blood work came back perfect! She said to keep doing whatever I am doing as far as my iron intake goes since I am not even close to being anemic. Not sure what I'm doing other than craving the right foods (leafy green salads, vegetables, chicken). I also found out my blood type: O+, so no need to worry about the Rh- factor (where mom and baby can get really sick because of conflicting blood types). I also only gained 1 lb since my last appointment 4 weeks ago so things are looking good!
Our ultrasound is scheduled for the morning on Nov 19th, so we're hoping to find out the sex then. We plan to keep it a surprise until Christmas though! The doctor also told me that there is a good chance that what I was feeling a week or two ago was the baby! She showed me where I should be feeling movement and told me to pay attention because I'll start to feel it more often. It's so exciting!!
Did I mention my latest craving?? There is a restaurant called King's Fish House here in California that has amazing food. It is one of my favorites!! Anyhow, they have this Cajun Power Garlic Sauce on the table that I use to dip my bread in. It is the perfect amount of tang and spice and I just can't get enough. Since the restaurant is just a block away from work I found myself wanting to go there up to 3 times a week!! Well at $12-$15 per lunch, I was spending way too much money just to fulfill my new craving....so what does a pregnant woman do in this situation, you ask? Forget the restaurant and order the sauce online (www.cajunpowersauce.com for those who are interested)!! And I didn't just order 1 bottle, I ordered 12!!! Well, partly because that's the smallest quantity they sold it in, but mostly because I wasn't sure 12 bottles would last me a month!
At least so far I've been pretty good, since I don't want to get sick of the stuff and never be able to eat it again. But I'm warning you...everyone might just get their very own bottle of Cajun Power Garlic Sauce for Christmas!!!
I also finally got around to talking to HR about maternity leave. I am so excited and very lucky that I live in California. I get to take 18 weeks off at 100% pay!! That's about 4 months off without the stress of not having two incomes! Plus Christopher gets to take 6 weeks at 55% pay, plus any vacation he has (up to another 3 weeks off). He can take it any time within the first year of the baby's life. So the baby will be nearly 6 months old before we have to do daycare. That put my mind at ease since I can't imagine leaving a 2 month old baby at daycare all day every day!
I'll post pictures of our pumpkins we carved and our costumes tomorrow...so check back soon!
The fetus now measures 4.1 to 4.5 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 1.75 ounces. Its body is covered in ultrafine hair, called lanugo, which is usually shed by birth. Eyebrows and hair on the top of the head are beginning to grow. The baby may even be sucking its thumb by now. The bones are also getting harder.
We had our second doctor appointment today and actually got to meet the doctor for the first time! Dr. Jennifer Lee is fairly young and I am very happy with my blind choice (remember I was only handed a sheet of paper with doctor's names on it)! She is very down to earth, easy to talk to, and has a great personality.
The heartbeat was at 146 bpm so the baby is doing well. Momma is also doing well since all the blood work came back perfect! She said to keep doing whatever I am doing as far as my iron intake goes since I am not even close to being anemic. Not sure what I'm doing other than craving the right foods (leafy green salads, vegetables, chicken). I also found out my blood type: O+, so no need to worry about the Rh- factor (where mom and baby can get really sick because of conflicting blood types). I also only gained 1 lb since my last appointment 4 weeks ago so things are looking good!
Our ultrasound is scheduled for the morning on Nov 19th, so we're hoping to find out the sex then. We plan to keep it a surprise until Christmas though! The doctor also told me that there is a good chance that what I was feeling a week or two ago was the baby! She showed me where I should be feeling movement and told me to pay attention because I'll start to feel it more often. It's so exciting!!
Did I mention my latest craving?? There is a restaurant called King's Fish House here in California that has amazing food. It is one of my favorites!! Anyhow, they have this Cajun Power Garlic Sauce on the table that I use to dip my bread in. It is the perfect amount of tang and spice and I just can't get enough. Since the restaurant is just a block away from work I found myself wanting to go there up to 3 times a week!! Well at $12-$15 per lunch, I was spending way too much money just to fulfill my new craving....so what does a pregnant woman do in this situation, you ask? Forget the restaurant and order the sauce online (www.cajunpowersauce.com for those who are interested)!! And I didn't just order 1 bottle, I ordered 12!!! Well, partly because that's the smallest quantity they sold it in, but mostly because I wasn't sure 12 bottles would last me a month!
At least so far I've been pretty good, since I don't want to get sick of the stuff and never be able to eat it again. But I'm warning you...everyone might just get their very own bottle of Cajun Power Garlic Sauce for Christmas!!!
I also finally got around to talking to HR about maternity leave. I am so excited and very lucky that I live in California. I get to take 18 weeks off at 100% pay!! That's about 4 months off without the stress of not having two incomes! Plus Christopher gets to take 6 weeks at 55% pay, plus any vacation he has (up to another 3 weeks off). He can take it any time within the first year of the baby's life. So the baby will be nearly 6 months old before we have to do daycare. That put my mind at ease since I can't imagine leaving a 2 month old baby at daycare all day every day!
I'll post pictures of our pumpkins we carved and our costumes tomorrow...so check back soon!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
14 weeks, 3 days: Don't Squish the Baby!
Holy heck...if I hear it one more time, I might actually lose it! I don't know how I can keep my cool all day at work because everyone and everything annoys the heck out of me!!! The mail lady at work is super sweet, but she is driving me nuts!!! Every morning when she drops off my mail in my office she comes up with something else to tell me "Don't squish the baby!" Here are some of the things she has said:
"Don't sit like that, you'll squish the baby." (As I sit with my belly touching my keyboard tray.) Um, hello...I don't get longer arms when I get pregnant, just a bigger belly!!!
"Oh my gosh, you're going to squish the baby!" (As I sit with my arms crossed.) I'm pretty sure the baby is below my belly button and unless I'm a monkey, it is not possible to cross my arms below my belly button. Besides I think my ribs are plenty strong enough to hold the weight of my arms!
"What are you wearing today, you're going to squish the baby!" (As I sit in my chair with maternity pants that have a stretchy waist band and a comfy cotton t-shirt on.) Believe me, I would be stripping off clothes if they are too tight, long before I squish the baby! I say, don't squish the mommy!!!
Any ideas on how to get this woman to stop, without being mean?!? I can't take it anymore.
Also...I really thought that all the dead pets and plants that came before our super cute, very alive dog were not a reflection on my ability to be a mother. I'm starting to worry. Everyone keeps asking me if I've done anything to prepare for the baby. My response? Nope, I'll worry about that later. I'm too busy living my life, going to work and studying for school.
Well, it just dawned on me that we did nothing to prepare for getting a dog. Literally. Not a single thing. I mean we took money out of the ATM to pay for her, but nothing more. We drove 2 hours to go get her, and once we got in the car to leave, I put her on my lap and realized that we didn't have anything for her!
So with our brand new puppy on my lap (which is completely unsafe by the way) we drove 20 min to the nearest Petsmart. We have to carry her in because we don't have a leash yet. We immediately get a leash, rip open the package, but realize we need a collar too. So we rip open another package and I think we're doing okay. Then we look at each other and ask, what else do we need?? We had to get help on buying a crate, dog food, dog bowls, treats, poop bags, toys, etc. We almost picked up a 'Puppies for Dummies' book, put put it back down.
So I can just see it now...we are going to be stopping to get diapers on the way home from the hospital. At least this time I know I have to have a carseat or they won't let me take the baby home. Do they have a 'Babies for Dummies' book?? This time I won't be putting it back down!
"Don't sit like that, you'll squish the baby." (As I sit with my belly touching my keyboard tray.) Um, hello...I don't get longer arms when I get pregnant, just a bigger belly!!!
"Oh my gosh, you're going to squish the baby!" (As I sit with my arms crossed.) I'm pretty sure the baby is below my belly button and unless I'm a monkey, it is not possible to cross my arms below my belly button. Besides I think my ribs are plenty strong enough to hold the weight of my arms!
"What are you wearing today, you're going to squish the baby!" (As I sit in my chair with maternity pants that have a stretchy waist band and a comfy cotton t-shirt on.) Believe me, I would be stripping off clothes if they are too tight, long before I squish the baby! I say, don't squish the mommy!!!
Any ideas on how to get this woman to stop, without being mean?!? I can't take it anymore.
Also...I really thought that all the dead pets and plants that came before our super cute, very alive dog were not a reflection on my ability to be a mother. I'm starting to worry. Everyone keeps asking me if I've done anything to prepare for the baby. My response? Nope, I'll worry about that later. I'm too busy living my life, going to work and studying for school.
Well, it just dawned on me that we did nothing to prepare for getting a dog. Literally. Not a single thing. I mean we took money out of the ATM to pay for her, but nothing more. We drove 2 hours to go get her, and once we got in the car to leave, I put her on my lap and realized that we didn't have anything for her!
So with our brand new puppy on my lap (which is completely unsafe by the way) we drove 20 min to the nearest Petsmart. We have to carry her in because we don't have a leash yet. We immediately get a leash, rip open the package, but realize we need a collar too. So we rip open another package and I think we're doing okay. Then we look at each other and ask, what else do we need?? We had to get help on buying a crate, dog food, dog bowls, treats, poop bags, toys, etc. We almost picked up a 'Puppies for Dummies' book, put put it back down.
So I can just see it now...we are going to be stopping to get diapers on the way home from the hospital. At least this time I know I have to have a carseat or they won't let me take the baby home. Do they have a 'Babies for Dummies' book?? This time I won't be putting it back down!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
14 Weeks: Honeymoon Phase
What's happening with the baby:
The baby measures 3.2 to 4.1 inches from crown to rump and weighs almost an ounce. The ears are shifting from the neck to the side of the head and the neck is longer and the chin more prominent. Facial features and unique fingerprints are all there. The baby is starting to respond to outside stimuli. If the mother's abdomen is poked, the baby will try to wriggle away.
This is the best time of the pregnancy! Now I know why they call it the honeymoon phase. I don't feel pregnant at all, in fact I feel like I'm back to my normal self. I still have a little less energy and I am also uncomfortable while I sleep. I'm a stomach sleeper and with the ever-growing bump, being on my stomach isn't working so well lately. Plus I am a super light sleeper now (what?!!? I used to sleep through anything) and Christopher snores...so between hitting him to make him roll over and trying to get comfortable it's no wonder I have less energy!
And this new thing started but I'm not sure what it is. Two or three times in the last week I'll be sitting down and all of sudden there is a weird flutter or tapping feeling below my belly button. It freaks me out a little so I move positions and it goes away. I've read in all of my pregnancy books that this is what it feels like when the baby moves, but that I'm not supposed to feel it until somewhere around 17-22 weeks. This seems awfully early to feel anything, but I know it's not gas either. At this stage I don't much care for it, so I'm hoping that my feelings will change on the subject since I'm pretty sure I will have another 26 weeks of it!
I keep being told that "Your life will change forever." This statement annoys me so much. First of all, people say it all ominous, almost in a doom and gloom sort of way. They never say whether they mean it in a good way or bad way. And second, when exactly did I say I expect or want my life to stay the same?!? I know it's going to change and I am absolutely looking foward to it! My entire life has been full of changes and I have always looked back and said "Now, that was the best time of my life." I hope that I continue waking up and looking back on my life in the same way. I have no doubt that being a mother and raising children with my incredible husband will be the best thing we ever do in our life. It will be life changing, and it will be hard, but I'm willing to bet that it will also be exhilarating!
I had a simulation this weekend for school where we run a company and try to beat out competitors. What happens when you put 4 men and 1 pregnant woman on a team together, stick them in a room for 12 hours in a high stress environment, and don't feed the pregnant woman in a timely manner or allow her bathroom breaks every 2 hours??? You get four VERY quiet men. I'm pretty sure I was a mean grouch to all of them! It was a fun experience, but incredibly exhausting. And we didn't do very well...we almost drove the company out of business! Too funny. Now I know I shouldn't try to run a company while I'm pregnant.
I'm going to try to get another belly pic up tonight. I plan to take one every 2 weeks.
Also, Christopher and I are going to a Halloween Party next Saturday (although it will have to be an eary night for me since I get so tired so quickly). Check back next week to see a picture of our costumes!
The baby measures 3.2 to 4.1 inches from crown to rump and weighs almost an ounce. The ears are shifting from the neck to the side of the head and the neck is longer and the chin more prominent. Facial features and unique fingerprints are all there. The baby is starting to respond to outside stimuli. If the mother's abdomen is poked, the baby will try to wriggle away.
This is the best time of the pregnancy! Now I know why they call it the honeymoon phase. I don't feel pregnant at all, in fact I feel like I'm back to my normal self. I still have a little less energy and I am also uncomfortable while I sleep. I'm a stomach sleeper and with the ever-growing bump, being on my stomach isn't working so well lately. Plus I am a super light sleeper now (what?!!? I used to sleep through anything) and Christopher snores...so between hitting him to make him roll over and trying to get comfortable it's no wonder I have less energy!
And this new thing started but I'm not sure what it is. Two or three times in the last week I'll be sitting down and all of sudden there is a weird flutter or tapping feeling below my belly button. It freaks me out a little so I move positions and it goes away. I've read in all of my pregnancy books that this is what it feels like when the baby moves, but that I'm not supposed to feel it until somewhere around 17-22 weeks. This seems awfully early to feel anything, but I know it's not gas either. At this stage I don't much care for it, so I'm hoping that my feelings will change on the subject since I'm pretty sure I will have another 26 weeks of it!
I keep being told that "Your life will change forever." This statement annoys me so much. First of all, people say it all ominous, almost in a doom and gloom sort of way. They never say whether they mean it in a good way or bad way. And second, when exactly did I say I expect or want my life to stay the same?!? I know it's going to change and I am absolutely looking foward to it! My entire life has been full of changes and I have always looked back and said "Now, that was the best time of my life." I hope that I continue waking up and looking back on my life in the same way. I have no doubt that being a mother and raising children with my incredible husband will be the best thing we ever do in our life. It will be life changing, and it will be hard, but I'm willing to bet that it will also be exhilarating!
I had a simulation this weekend for school where we run a company and try to beat out competitors. What happens when you put 4 men and 1 pregnant woman on a team together, stick them in a room for 12 hours in a high stress environment, and don't feed the pregnant woman in a timely manner or allow her bathroom breaks every 2 hours??? You get four VERY quiet men. I'm pretty sure I was a mean grouch to all of them! It was a fun experience, but incredibly exhausting. And we didn't do very well...we almost drove the company out of business! Too funny. Now I know I shouldn't try to run a company while I'm pregnant.
I'm going to try to get another belly pic up tonight. I plan to take one every 2 weeks.
Also, Christopher and I are going to a Halloween Party next Saturday (although it will have to be an eary night for me since I get so tired so quickly). Check back next week to see a picture of our costumes!
Sunday, October 14, 2007
13Weeks: Getting Excited!!
What's happening with the baby:
The fully formed fetus measures 2.6 to 3.1 inches crown to rump and weighs between 0.5 and 0.7 ounces--about the size of a peach. The head is still disproportionately bigger than the body, but the rest of the body is starting to catch up. The baby is growing rapidly these days. The face is starting to look more human, with eyes moving closer together. Toes and fingers are clearly separate, and ankles and wrists have formed. External genatalia are becoming visible and intestines are shifting to their proper place.
So I am finally starting to get super excited about the baby. Up to this point, I've been kind of on the fence about the whole thing. It's a little bit alien to me to have a human being in me, but every day I get more excited and less freaked out by all the changes. I can't wait to see the ultrasound in November and find out if it is a girl or boy. I'm even more excited to see what the baby will look like and to hold it. It just makes me smile.
It is very strange to see my body changing so rapidly and even stranger to notice that I can't physically move the way I used to. I've noticed that it is a bit more difficult to sit up in bed or get off the floor. It just feels like my stomach muscles are broken. I'm doing lots of walking, but I can't walk nearly as fast as I used to. I used to walk a mile in 15-18 min, but now I do it in about 20 min. I really listen to my body and make sure I don't push it too hard. I'm going to look into finding a prenatal yoga class since I'm sure it will help with stress (work and school are killing me right now!).
So we got our first two congrats cards in the mail the other day! I loved them!! One was addressed to 'Baby Derichsweiler' and came from Grandma Jacqueline. The other one came from Great Grandma Gleason (GGG). Looks like our parents are starting to figure out what they want to be called. I love it! So much fun!!
If you haven't seen the new pictures of Maile, check them out by following the link to Mikael, Che & Maile's blog. She is so beautiful and we can't wait to see her again!!!
The fully formed fetus measures 2.6 to 3.1 inches crown to rump and weighs between 0.5 and 0.7 ounces--about the size of a peach. The head is still disproportionately bigger than the body, but the rest of the body is starting to catch up. The baby is growing rapidly these days. The face is starting to look more human, with eyes moving closer together. Toes and fingers are clearly separate, and ankles and wrists have formed. External genatalia are becoming visible and intestines are shifting to their proper place.
So I am finally starting to get super excited about the baby. Up to this point, I've been kind of on the fence about the whole thing. It's a little bit alien to me to have a human being in me, but every day I get more excited and less freaked out by all the changes. I can't wait to see the ultrasound in November and find out if it is a girl or boy. I'm even more excited to see what the baby will look like and to hold it. It just makes me smile.
It is very strange to see my body changing so rapidly and even stranger to notice that I can't physically move the way I used to. I've noticed that it is a bit more difficult to sit up in bed or get off the floor. It just feels like my stomach muscles are broken. I'm doing lots of walking, but I can't walk nearly as fast as I used to. I used to walk a mile in 15-18 min, but now I do it in about 20 min. I really listen to my body and make sure I don't push it too hard. I'm going to look into finding a prenatal yoga class since I'm sure it will help with stress (work and school are killing me right now!).
So we got our first two congrats cards in the mail the other day! I loved them!! One was addressed to 'Baby Derichsweiler' and came from Grandma Jacqueline. The other one came from Great Grandma Gleason (GGG). Looks like our parents are starting to figure out what they want to be called. I love it! So much fun!!
If you haven't seen the new pictures of Maile, check them out by following the link to Mikael, Che & Maile's blog. She is so beautiful and we can't wait to see her again!!!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
12 weeks: Updated Pictures
What's happening with the baby:
The fetus now measures 2.5 inches crown to rump and weighs between 0.3 and 0.5 ounces. It is fully formed from tooth buds to toenails and the baby's job will be to continue getting larger and stronger for the rest of the pregnancy. With the most critical development behind the fetus the risk of miscarriage drops considerably after this week.
I found a new aversion last night--Taco Bell!! Yuck, it makes me so sick. It's strange because I crave Mexican, but I guess this pregnancy settles the debate...Taco Bell is NOT Mexican!
I'm feeling pretty good otherwise. I am really tired again, so bedtime is around 8 or 9 on nights that I don't have class and I take 2-3 hour naps on the weekends. I am starting to feel crazy about the house not always being perfectly clean. I feel like it's full of germs and I need to mop 3 times a day. I don't, but I feel like I need to.
I think Scout is as excited about the baby as we are! We went on a walk yesterday and every small child we walked by, she just couldn't get enough. She about ripped my arm off trying to run across the street because she saw a 2 year old little girl. She especially adores them when they are babies up to age 3.
Well I'm off to do some homework now...check out the new pictures I posted and don't forget to vote on what you think we're going to have!
The fetus now measures 2.5 inches crown to rump and weighs between 0.3 and 0.5 ounces. It is fully formed from tooth buds to toenails and the baby's job will be to continue getting larger and stronger for the rest of the pregnancy. With the most critical development behind the fetus the risk of miscarriage drops considerably after this week.
I found a new aversion last night--Taco Bell!! Yuck, it makes me so sick. It's strange because I crave Mexican, but I guess this pregnancy settles the debate...Taco Bell is NOT Mexican!
I'm feeling pretty good otherwise. I am really tired again, so bedtime is around 8 or 9 on nights that I don't have class and I take 2-3 hour naps on the weekends. I am starting to feel crazy about the house not always being perfectly clean. I feel like it's full of germs and I need to mop 3 times a day. I don't, but I feel like I need to.
I think Scout is as excited about the baby as we are! We went on a walk yesterday and every small child we walked by, she just couldn't get enough. She about ripped my arm off trying to run across the street because she saw a 2 year old little girl. She especially adores them when they are babies up to age 3.
Well I'm off to do some homework now...check out the new pictures I posted and don't forget to vote on what you think we're going to have!
Thursday, October 4, 2007
11 weeks, 4 days: Feeling good
What's happening to the baby:
The fetus is about the size of a large lime, measures 1.75 to 2.4 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 3/10 of an ounce. The rapid swooshing noises of the heartbeat can be heard through a Doppler sound-wave stethoscope. Fingernails and external genatalia are showing distinguishing characteristics, and the baby is swallowing and kicking, but the mother still won't feel it.
So the morning sickness has passed and I'm not starving all the time! My abdomen is starting to feel a little strange. Almost like I swallowed a large tennis ball and it got stuck. Plus my legs and back are all crampy. My boobs are over-flowing out of a 36D bra, so I might have to upsize again. I can't believe it!! I'm loving the thick hair and long nails!
Some of my cravings:
Tomato based anything--LOVE ketchup (I could squirt it directly in my mouth), BBQ sauce, marinara sauce (yum spaghetti), salsa, whole fresh tomatoes
Cereal (Lucky Charms)
Ice-cream (rocky road)
Lemonade
Some of my aversions:
Asian cuisine--soy sauce, sushi, teriyaki (Just thinking about it makes me queasy.)
Sour cream
Too much candy or chocolate (a piece is okay, an entire candy bar makes me sick)
Everyone at work is starting to know because I've started openly talking about it, plus I'm showing. The HR manager came down and congratulated me and told me to come talk to them about how maternity leave works. The General Manager stopped me in the hall and was genuine with his congratulations. It is so much more fun now that everyone knows!
The fetus is about the size of a large lime, measures 1.75 to 2.4 inches from crown to rump and weighs about 3/10 of an ounce. The rapid swooshing noises of the heartbeat can be heard through a Doppler sound-wave stethoscope. Fingernails and external genatalia are showing distinguishing characteristics, and the baby is swallowing and kicking, but the mother still won't feel it.
So the morning sickness has passed and I'm not starving all the time! My abdomen is starting to feel a little strange. Almost like I swallowed a large tennis ball and it got stuck. Plus my legs and back are all crampy. My boobs are over-flowing out of a 36D bra, so I might have to upsize again. I can't believe it!! I'm loving the thick hair and long nails!
Some of my cravings:
Tomato based anything--LOVE ketchup (I could squirt it directly in my mouth), BBQ sauce, marinara sauce (yum spaghetti), salsa, whole fresh tomatoes
Cereal (Lucky Charms)
Ice-cream (rocky road)
Lemonade
Some of my aversions:
Asian cuisine--soy sauce, sushi, teriyaki (Just thinking about it makes me queasy.)
Sour cream
Too much candy or chocolate (a piece is okay, an entire candy bar makes me sick)
Everyone at work is starting to know because I've started openly talking about it, plus I'm showing. The HR manager came down and congratulated me and told me to come talk to them about how maternity leave works. The General Manager stopped me in the hall and was genuine with his congratulations. It is so much more fun now that everyone knows!
Friday, September 28, 2007
10 weeks, 5 days: The dog is still alive...
2 dead beta fish
1 dead garden
4 dead houseplants
1 almost dead dog (totally not our fault, the landlord poisoned her!)
....and we decided to have a baby! I'm preganant! We are very excited and looking foward to an April 20th baby!!
This was the email we sent out to everyone. Here are some of the funniest replies:
"Please keep him/her away from the landlord!"
"If it's any consolation, I did better with kids than I did with pets."
"I guess it's too late to rethink the baby thing, but after 2 dead fish, 1 dead garden, 4 dead houseplants, and the poor dog, I'd say you don't have a very good track record."
"I don't think I would invest any more money in pets. Try stocks or bonds."
"Congratulations on having some strong swimmers. While your resume is a little concerning, I am sure you guys will be great parents."
"What the hell did your landlord do?!?!?"
"No mention of the turtle. Suspicious..."
1 dead garden
4 dead houseplants
1 almost dead dog (totally not our fault, the landlord poisoned her!)
....and we decided to have a baby! I'm preganant! We are very excited and looking foward to an April 20th baby!!
This was the email we sent out to everyone. Here are some of the funniest replies:
"Please keep him/her away from the landlord!"
"If it's any consolation, I did better with kids than I did with pets."
"I guess it's too late to rethink the baby thing, but after 2 dead fish, 1 dead garden, 4 dead houseplants, and the poor dog, I'd say you don't have a very good track record."
"I don't think I would invest any more money in pets. Try stocks or bonds."
"Congratulations on having some strong swimmers. While your resume is a little concerning, I am sure you guys will be great parents."
"What the hell did your landlord do?!?!?"
"No mention of the turtle. Suspicious..."
Thursday, September 27, 2007
10 weeks, 4 days: Telling the parents
We called our parents immediately after we got home from hearing the heartbeat at the doctor appointment.
Christopher's Mom:
(Screaming for about 5 minutes into the phone.) Oh my gosh, I'm going to be a grandma!!! That's such wonderful news!!
Christopher's Grandma:
(Screaming for about 5 minutes into the phone.) I'm going to be a great-grandma!!!
Christopher's Dad:
That's great. You know your sister's job is going really well.
Salina's Dad:
Congratulations! That's really great news! I am so excited to be a grandpa!
Salina's Mom:
Congratulations! I thought maybe you were, but I didn't want to ask! It's a baby boom! (My sister is also pregnant due Jan 1st, and my cousin is pregnant due approximately 2 weeks after we are.)
It was so much fun to tell!!
Christopher's Mom:
(Screaming for about 5 minutes into the phone.) Oh my gosh, I'm going to be a grandma!!! That's such wonderful news!!
Christopher's Grandma:
(Screaming for about 5 minutes into the phone.) I'm going to be a great-grandma!!!
Christopher's Dad:
That's great. You know your sister's job is going really well.
Salina's Dad:
Congratulations! That's really great news! I am so excited to be a grandpa!
Salina's Mom:
Congratulations! I thought maybe you were, but I didn't want to ask! It's a baby boom! (My sister is also pregnant due Jan 1st, and my cousin is pregnant due approximately 2 weeks after we are.)
It was so much fun to tell!!
10 weeks, 4 days: First Prenatal Dr Visit
What's happening with the baby:
The baby is now officially a fetus! It looks like a medium shrimp, measuring 1.25 to 1.68 inches from crown to rump, weighing a little less than 2/10 of an ounce. Most physical malformations, when they occur, have occurred by the end of this week, so the most critical part of the baby's development has passed. Other developmental processes, such as those affecting behavior and intelligence will continue throughout pregnancy. Eyes are covered by skin that will eventually split to form eyelids.
We had our first prenatal visit today! We show up 15 minutes early and they ask if I have my paperwork. I give them a quizzical look and say no, I didn't receive anything. They seem annoyed but hand me a stack of papers to fill out. Basically I fill out my medical history on 4 different forms, providing the exact same information on every form. They seriously couldn't transfer this info from my regular doctor, or at least consolidate to one form?!?
So we go back to the exam room (after 45 minutes of waiting past our scheduled appointment) and the nurse takes my blood pressure then has me lay down so she can check for the heartbeat with the Doppler. She warned us that there was no guarantee that we would be able to hear it, but she would try.
So on goes the goopy clear stuff, just like on TV, and she starts searching around my belly. Then she finds it!! It sounds like a train...chugga, chugga, chugga. The look on Christopher's face is unforgettable.
Him: Wow! That's so cool!
Me: That's just creepy.
I mean really, there is a heartbeat, that isn't mine, beating in my stomach!!! That is just a little bit alien. It was really amazing, but I still don't think I'm used to having a human being inside of me!
After that, they give me a paper robe to do an internal exam. Christopher looks at the tray of stuff with a bewildered look and I say, 'oh that's normal. They put that stuff inside of me.' He about fell out of his chair. Needless to say he kept his head buried in a magazine for the entire exam! I figure he needs some preparation for the actual birth, so a simple pelvic exam shouldn't be a big deal.
The baby is now officially a fetus! It looks like a medium shrimp, measuring 1.25 to 1.68 inches from crown to rump, weighing a little less than 2/10 of an ounce. Most physical malformations, when they occur, have occurred by the end of this week, so the most critical part of the baby's development has passed. Other developmental processes, such as those affecting behavior and intelligence will continue throughout pregnancy. Eyes are covered by skin that will eventually split to form eyelids.
We had our first prenatal visit today! We show up 15 minutes early and they ask if I have my paperwork. I give them a quizzical look and say no, I didn't receive anything. They seem annoyed but hand me a stack of papers to fill out. Basically I fill out my medical history on 4 different forms, providing the exact same information on every form. They seriously couldn't transfer this info from my regular doctor, or at least consolidate to one form?!?
So we go back to the exam room (after 45 minutes of waiting past our scheduled appointment) and the nurse takes my blood pressure then has me lay down so she can check for the heartbeat with the Doppler. She warned us that there was no guarantee that we would be able to hear it, but she would try.
So on goes the goopy clear stuff, just like on TV, and she starts searching around my belly. Then she finds it!! It sounds like a train...chugga, chugga, chugga. The look on Christopher's face is unforgettable.
Him: Wow! That's so cool!
Me: That's just creepy.
I mean really, there is a heartbeat, that isn't mine, beating in my stomach!!! That is just a little bit alien. It was really amazing, but I still don't think I'm used to having a human being inside of me!
After that, they give me a paper robe to do an internal exam. Christopher looks at the tray of stuff with a bewildered look and I say, 'oh that's normal. They put that stuff inside of me.' He about fell out of his chair. Needless to say he kept his head buried in a magazine for the entire exam! I figure he needs some preparation for the actual birth, so a simple pelvic exam shouldn't be a big deal.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
9 Weeks, 4 Days: Home Sick
It was so good to hear from Che today! I am really home sick lately and sort of tear up just thinking about it (probably more to do with pregnancy hormones than anything!) I really miss everyone!! Maybe I will try to convince Christopher to move back home early 2009 instead of moving to another location. I've decided I don't really want to stay with my company and want to find a new job anyhow. There are lots of changes going on with the company and I'm not sure I want to stick around for the end result. Their overall strategy seems to have changed and their values don't quite match my own.
I'm feeling really good lately! I was so sick for about 2 weeks, throwing up and everything. Now I feel great and I'm only slightly more tired than usual, but not exhausted. The insatiable hunger also slowed down. I still get hungry, but now a snack will actually hold me over to the next meal. I definitely eat a lot more at meal time, but I don't feel like I have to eat 2 dinners anymore.
We have our first doctor appointment next Thursday and we are both really excited. The only thing I'm worried about now is a missed miscarriage or blighted ovum. I'm sure everything is okay!
I already had a girl at work ask if I was pregnant. I've moved up to maternity clothes (at least in pants/skirts) because my regular clothes just don't fit. I feel like I have a pretty big baby bump already and I'm only 2 months! I can't believe it! I honestly thought I wouldn't show until 4-5 months. I guess we'll see at the ultrasound if there is one or two heartbeats! Of course it could just be a big baby.
I'm feeling really good lately! I was so sick for about 2 weeks, throwing up and everything. Now I feel great and I'm only slightly more tired than usual, but not exhausted. The insatiable hunger also slowed down. I still get hungry, but now a snack will actually hold me over to the next meal. I definitely eat a lot more at meal time, but I don't feel like I have to eat 2 dinners anymore.
We have our first doctor appointment next Thursday and we are both really excited. The only thing I'm worried about now is a missed miscarriage or blighted ovum. I'm sure everything is okay!
I already had a girl at work ask if I was pregnant. I've moved up to maternity clothes (at least in pants/skirts) because my regular clothes just don't fit. I feel like I have a pretty big baby bump already and I'm only 2 months! I can't believe it! I honestly thought I wouldn't show until 4-5 months. I guess we'll see at the ultrasound if there is one or two heartbeats! Of course it could just be a big baby.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
9 weeks, 3 days: Sense of smell
What's happening with the baby:
The embryo measures about 0.9 inches to 1.2 inches from crown to rump, or about the size of a strawberry. The arms and legs are longer, and the fingers might be a little swolen where the touch pads are forming. The head is more erect and the neck is more developed. The baby now moves its body and limbs, and this movement can be visible during an ultrasound, but the mother can't feel it yet.
Poor Christopher has to work overtime on the chores! The smell of the trash, dirty dishes and the fridge all make me sick. I had to change deoderants because I was making myself sick! My sense of smell is outrageous...I can even smell the salad dressings INSIDE the bottles at the store! Not kidding...it's so bizarre!
Heather sent me the following email...thanks for the laugh!
Thought you might be interested in this study...
A study conducted by UCLA's Department of Psychiatry has revealed that the kind of face a woman finds attractive on a man can differ depending on where she is in her menstrual cycle. For example: If she is ovulating, she is attracted to men with rugged and masculine features.
However, if she is menstruating or menopausal (or pregnant!), she tends to be more attracted to a man with duct tape over his mouth and a spear lodged in his forehead while he is on fire.
The embryo measures about 0.9 inches to 1.2 inches from crown to rump, or about the size of a strawberry. The arms and legs are longer, and the fingers might be a little swolen where the touch pads are forming. The head is more erect and the neck is more developed. The baby now moves its body and limbs, and this movement can be visible during an ultrasound, but the mother can't feel it yet.
Poor Christopher has to work overtime on the chores! The smell of the trash, dirty dishes and the fridge all make me sick. I had to change deoderants because I was making myself sick! My sense of smell is outrageous...I can even smell the salad dressings INSIDE the bottles at the store! Not kidding...it's so bizarre!
Heather sent me the following email...thanks for the laugh!
Thought you might be interested in this study...
A study conducted by UCLA's Department of Psychiatry has revealed that the kind of face a woman finds attractive on a man can differ depending on where she is in her menstrual cycle. For example: If she is ovulating, she is attracted to men with rugged and masculine features.
However, if she is menstruating or menopausal (or pregnant!), she tends to be more attracted to a man with duct tape over his mouth and a spear lodged in his forehead while he is on fire.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
8 weeks, 3 days: Finding relief from hunger
What's happening with the baby:
The embryo is about the size of a grape, 0.56 to 0.8 inches from crown to rump. Eyelid folds and ears are forming and even the tip of the nose is visible. The arms have grown longer and bend at the elbows. Places where fingers and toes eventually will grow are becoming notched.
I am so hungry ALL the time. I can't eat enough food to ever feel full, and even the slightest bit of hunger makes the morning sickness come back with a vengeance. Our grocery bill is going to double at this rate!!
Heather recommended I try protein shakes and protein bars. She said the protein will probably help me feel full and I won't have to eat a bunch of food. Thank you for the recommendation!!!! Finally some relief.
I was so tired of shoving food in my mouth all the time and feeling like I was starving. I bought some Ensure protein chocolate flavored shakes and drinking one holds me over for 2-3 hours. Literally my hunger goes away. I haven't felt satisfied like this since before I got pregnant! I also bought some Special K protein snack bars and they are perfect for a 1-2 hour hold over. I feel so much better and can actually enjoy food now. It was turning into a chore to find something new to eat. The last 3 days I feel completely back to normal and not like a pig and a lot less nauseous.
I don't fit into any of my work pants any more. I just feel fat, even though I know it's pregnancy related. So depressing...I can't wait until I really look pregnant so that I don't just feel fat.
The embryo is about the size of a grape, 0.56 to 0.8 inches from crown to rump. Eyelid folds and ears are forming and even the tip of the nose is visible. The arms have grown longer and bend at the elbows. Places where fingers and toes eventually will grow are becoming notched.
I am so hungry ALL the time. I can't eat enough food to ever feel full, and even the slightest bit of hunger makes the morning sickness come back with a vengeance. Our grocery bill is going to double at this rate!!
Heather recommended I try protein shakes and protein bars. She said the protein will probably help me feel full and I won't have to eat a bunch of food. Thank you for the recommendation!!!! Finally some relief.
I was so tired of shoving food in my mouth all the time and feeling like I was starving. I bought some Ensure protein chocolate flavored shakes and drinking one holds me over for 2-3 hours. Literally my hunger goes away. I haven't felt satisfied like this since before I got pregnant! I also bought some Special K protein snack bars and they are perfect for a 1-2 hour hold over. I feel so much better and can actually enjoy food now. It was turning into a chore to find something new to eat. The last 3 days I feel completely back to normal and not like a pig and a lot less nauseous.
I don't fit into any of my work pants any more. I just feel fat, even though I know it's pregnancy related. So depressing...I can't wait until I really look pregnant so that I don't just feel fat.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
7 weeks: Update on the baby
What's happening with the baby:
The embryo makes great strides in size, growing to between 0.44 and 0.52 inches from crown to rump, or about the size of a raspberry. Leg buds are starting to look like short fins, and hands and feet have a digital plate where fingers and toes will develop. The heart and lungs are becoming more developed, as are the eyes and nostrils, intestines, and appendix. The brain and spinal cord are growing from the neural tube.
The embryo makes great strides in size, growing to between 0.44 and 0.52 inches from crown to rump, or about the size of a raspberry. Leg buds are starting to look like short fins, and hands and feet have a digital plate where fingers and toes will develop. The heart and lungs are becoming more developed, as are the eyes and nostrils, intestines, and appendix. The brain and spinal cord are growing from the neural tube.
Friday, August 31, 2007
6 weeks 5 days: Told the boss
So I was really nervous to tell work about being pregnant. I don't know why. I guess because the only people I have seen pregnant at work have been admin assistants and they are a lot easier to replace with a temp than a full time engineer. I also work with mostly men that are in they're late 40's and early 50's, so I wasn't sure how they would react. Plus, the thought of telling work before we could tell our parents was a little heartbreaking.
But, I am so sick, plus I'm worried about it getting worse, that I broke down and told them. Here's how it went:
Me: Do you have a minute?
Him: Sure. (I shut the door.)
Me: I have some really good news! My husband and I are expecting our first child!!
Him: That's wonderful news! Congratulations! Wow, how exciting! How are you feeling?
Me: Well that's why I'm telling you so early. I'm only about 7 weeks, but the morning sickness has set in and I have been pretty miserable the last couple of days.
Him: You just let us know if you need to work from home, or stay home sick. Don't push yourself to hard. We can find someone to help you out if you need it. Don't worry about falling behind on your work.
Me: Thank you. And just to let you know, I plan to work up to my due date on April 20th and then take about 4 months off. I do plan to come back to my career.
Him: (Smiles.) So you plan to work until April 19th?
Me: Well if the doctor lets me and I'm up to it!
The conversation continued with him telling me about his wife's pregnancies and congratulating me again. He also told me not to go to the field unless absolutely necessary and only for safety meetings and such. There are too many chemicals that could be harmful to the baby.
So all in all, it was the best reaction I could have gotten. It was wonderful and made it a little more real!
But, I am so sick, plus I'm worried about it getting worse, that I broke down and told them. Here's how it went:
Me: Do you have a minute?
Him: Sure. (I shut the door.)
Me: I have some really good news! My husband and I are expecting our first child!!
Him: That's wonderful news! Congratulations! Wow, how exciting! How are you feeling?
Me: Well that's why I'm telling you so early. I'm only about 7 weeks, but the morning sickness has set in and I have been pretty miserable the last couple of days.
Him: You just let us know if you need to work from home, or stay home sick. Don't push yourself to hard. We can find someone to help you out if you need it. Don't worry about falling behind on your work.
Me: Thank you. And just to let you know, I plan to work up to my due date on April 20th and then take about 4 months off. I do plan to come back to my career.
Him: (Smiles.) So you plan to work until April 19th?
Me: Well if the doctor lets me and I'm up to it!
The conversation continued with him telling me about his wife's pregnancies and congratulating me again. He also told me not to go to the field unless absolutely necessary and only for safety meetings and such. There are too many chemicals that could be harmful to the baby.
So all in all, it was the best reaction I could have gotten. It was wonderful and made it a little more real!
6 weeks, 5 days: So sick
Sick. So sick to my stomach. I threw up yesterday for the first time and stayed at work all day feeling miserable. Nothing really helped. I even went and laid down in my care for a half hour. Finally around 4:30 I started feeling slightly better. By that time I left to go home. I got home and cooked myself dinner, ate about a quarter of it and just felt blech. So I ate half a lemon (I know, sounds gross, but it's the only thing that makes the queasiness go away!). Then I put my Seaband bracelets on, took some ginger, ate some crackers, drank some water and laid down. I had to yell at Scout to leave me alone because the smell of her was making me sicker. By the time Christopher got home at 9:30 I was still feeling awful. It feels like a monstrous hangover that won't go away. He made me some scrambled eggs and that seemed to help. I went to bed and slept with the bracelets on.
I got up this morning and like magic, I feel back to normal. I ate a huge breakfast and brought lots of food to work. I have just devoured a foot long sub for lunch! I have NEVER eaten a foot long in my life! I still don't feel full. As long as I keep the bracelets on and keep my tummy full, I'm fine. I don't know how I would do it if I was sick every day!!
I called yesterday to make my doctor appointment and I could only leave a message. They never called back, so I called again today. My first appointment isn't until I'm almost 11 weeks!! And I won't even see my doctor, only a nurse! Oh well...
I finally feel like I'm starting to worry less about a miscarriage and instead I'm learning to enjoy the experience. I think I'm going to have to spill the beans soon, because I can't fit into my pants, I already have a little bump (which I can't physically suck in!), and I look like a goof with dark blue motion sickness bracelets on! I was hoping I could wait until after the first appointment, but I think it will be too obvious by then.
I got up this morning and like magic, I feel back to normal. I ate a huge breakfast and brought lots of food to work. I have just devoured a foot long sub for lunch! I have NEVER eaten a foot long in my life! I still don't feel full. As long as I keep the bracelets on and keep my tummy full, I'm fine. I don't know how I would do it if I was sick every day!!
I called yesterday to make my doctor appointment and I could only leave a message. They never called back, so I called again today. My first appointment isn't until I'm almost 11 weeks!! And I won't even see my doctor, only a nurse! Oh well...
I finally feel like I'm starting to worry less about a miscarriage and instead I'm learning to enjoy the experience. I think I'm going to have to spill the beans soon, because I can't fit into my pants, I already have a little bump (which I can't physically suck in!), and I look like a goof with dark blue motion sickness bracelets on! I was hoping I could wait until after the first appointment, but I think it will be too obvious by then.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
6 Weeks, 3 days: First Craving!
What's happening with the baby:
The embryo is starting to look like a tadpole. It's about 0.08 inches to 0.16 inches (the size of a BB pellet), from the top of the head to the buttocks. The eyes and limb buds are also forming. A heartbeat can sometimes be detected by an ultrasound around now. This is an extremely important time in the baby's development since between 17 and 56 days the embryo is most susceptible to factors that can interfere with its normal growth.
Well I had my first craving last week! I couldn't get enough cold food crammed in my mouth!!! Haha! All I wanted was cold food, I even heated up leftovers (steak and sweet potatoes) to lukewarm and ate them because the idea of hot food made me queasy. (I NEVER eat leftovers.) Crazy! I then proceeded to stuff my face with an entire bag of mini-carrots, an apple, and an entire cucumber. That craving only lasted a couple of days.
Now I crave salt and sour stuff (especially citrus). I'm feeling a little queasy in the mornings and early afternoons, especially right before I start to get hungry. Once I eat something though, I feel much better.
I can't fit into half of my pants already. I also don't fit into any my dresses or skirts. It's such a strange feeling since I just wore all this stuff a month ago! I don't know what I'm going to do for work clothes, or if I start showing really early. I wasn't planning to tell work until I'm 12-14 weeks.
I'm also completely congested, like I have a head cold. It doesn't help that I have allergies right now too and none of the medicines are particularly great for the baby, especially in early pregancy. So I'm using natural stuff (menthol, eucalyptus, ginger, lemon, etc).
The embryo is starting to look like a tadpole. It's about 0.08 inches to 0.16 inches (the size of a BB pellet), from the top of the head to the buttocks. The eyes and limb buds are also forming. A heartbeat can sometimes be detected by an ultrasound around now. This is an extremely important time in the baby's development since between 17 and 56 days the embryo is most susceptible to factors that can interfere with its normal growth.
Well I had my first craving last week! I couldn't get enough cold food crammed in my mouth!!! Haha! All I wanted was cold food, I even heated up leftovers (steak and sweet potatoes) to lukewarm and ate them because the idea of hot food made me queasy. (I NEVER eat leftovers.) Crazy! I then proceeded to stuff my face with an entire bag of mini-carrots, an apple, and an entire cucumber. That craving only lasted a couple of days.
Now I crave salt and sour stuff (especially citrus). I'm feeling a little queasy in the mornings and early afternoons, especially right before I start to get hungry. Once I eat something though, I feel much better.
I can't fit into half of my pants already. I also don't fit into any my dresses or skirts. It's such a strange feeling since I just wore all this stuff a month ago! I don't know what I'm going to do for work clothes, or if I start showing really early. I wasn't planning to tell work until I'm 12-14 weeks.
I'm also completely congested, like I have a head cold. It doesn't help that I have allergies right now too and none of the medicines are particularly great for the baby, especially in early pregancy. So I'm using natural stuff (menthol, eucalyptus, ginger, lemon, etc).
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
5 weeks, 3 days: First Doctor Appointment
I had my doctor appointment today and it was a complete waste of time. I thought I had already picked a doctor that would deliver the baby and take care of all my prenatal visits, but she doesn't. So we arrive and have to wait for about 30 minutes. Then we finally go back to the exam room and the nurse asks me the purpose of the visit...um hello, I told you on the phone when I made the appointment that I was pregnant! Then the nurse says I'll have to give a urine sample and I ask if I can do it right away (it's been 2 hours since I last went...and the frequent urination isn't getting any better). I pee in a cup, go back to the exam room and wait 10 minutes for the doctor to come in. She says, 'yep, you're pregnant' (duh, that's why I came in!). Then she asks if I've thought about an OB/GYN. I say 'No, I didn't realize I had to.' Then she says, 'okay here's a list, give us a call when you decide.'
So now I have to wait for the referral to go through and then make my first real appointment. I can't wait because I feel so stressed and worried about a miscarriage (don't know why, women in my family don't have these issues and I'm young and healthy). I feel like once I hear the heartbeat, I will feel a lot less worried. I guess then you start worrying about everything else!
Still tired and spacey, but that's okay. At least I can make it until 10:30 now, which helps for class. They spaceyness gets on my nerves, especially at work. I'm constantly fixing all of my oops!
So now I have to wait for the referral to go through and then make my first real appointment. I can't wait because I feel so stressed and worried about a miscarriage (don't know why, women in my family don't have these issues and I'm young and healthy). I feel like once I hear the heartbeat, I will feel a lot less worried. I guess then you start worrying about everything else!
Still tired and spacey, but that's okay. At least I can make it until 10:30 now, which helps for class. They spaceyness gets on my nerves, especially at work. I'm constantly fixing all of my oops!
Monday, August 20, 2007
5 Weeks, 1 Day: Symptoms
I am only 5 weeks and 1 day, but jeez it all happens so quick.
What's happening to the baby:
The baby hasn't grown much. It's aobut 0.05 inches long. Heart, brain, spinal cord, muscle, and bones are beginning to develop. The placenta, which will nourish the baby, and the amniotic sac, which provides a warm and safe environment where the baby can move easily, are still forming, too.
Here's the latest update on my symptoms.
Boobs
Wowsers!!! I already had to buy a new bra at a bigger cup size and my boobs feel like they're in jail again because it's already so tight! If I go buy another bra, that will be 2 cup sizes in 2 weeks!! How much bigger are they going to get?? I was a 36B and now I'm busting out of a 36C!! They are also pretty sore, so no touching!
Hair
So I just bought a new volumizing shampoo and conditioner and I was thinking, wow, I think this stuff really made my hair become twice as thick! This is the best product ever!! Then my hair started feeling like hay and I remembered Che saying that her hair changed during pregnancy. So I don't think it's the new products afterall...only the pregnancy. Thick hair is good, hay hair is not!
Energy
Sooo tired. All I want to do is sleep. Bedtime is 9:30 now! I don't know what I'm going to do when I have class until 10!
Peeing
What?!? Why do I have to pee every 2 hours all of sudden?? There is no baby yet to push on my bladder. I wake up twice in the middle of the night. This is crazy!!
Baby Brain
I am unable to multi-task. It takes so long to get things done at work because I keep forgetting things. I spend more time opening and closing files on the computer (because I forget I still need them open), and running to and from my office to get my forgotten pen, notebook, water, jacket, purse. Then I tried to make dinner the other night. Just simple breakfast. I had 3 pans, but 4 things to cook and I nearly had a breakdown. I just stood there and stared at everything and then really began to panic! I had to ask Christopher how to cook it all! Thankfully he helped, but I still couldn't cook more than one thing at a time. Half our food ended being served cold. Please tell me this doesn't get any worse.
Emotions
I got so angry watching Memoirs of a Geisha that I started crying and had to turn the TV off (I have no idea why I got mad). Then when Christopher came home from work, he started asking me how my day was and how I was feeling, and I got so overwhelmed I basically yelled at him to stop asking me so many questions. I told him I was tired and just wanted to go to bed. I was nearly in tears by then. I think this might be a roller coaster ride for both of us!!
I have my first doctor appointment on Wednesday (Aug 22). Christopher is coming with me. He is being a really good sport about everything and is super excited. He even asked me to buy him a book so he knows what to expect. I bought him "Pregnancy Sucks: For Men. When the Miracle Makes You Both Miserable." It's really funny, but gives him the info he needs.
What's happening to the baby:
The baby hasn't grown much. It's aobut 0.05 inches long. Heart, brain, spinal cord, muscle, and bones are beginning to develop. The placenta, which will nourish the baby, and the amniotic sac, which provides a warm and safe environment where the baby can move easily, are still forming, too.
Here's the latest update on my symptoms.
Boobs
Wowsers!!! I already had to buy a new bra at a bigger cup size and my boobs feel like they're in jail again because it's already so tight! If I go buy another bra, that will be 2 cup sizes in 2 weeks!! How much bigger are they going to get?? I was a 36B and now I'm busting out of a 36C!! They are also pretty sore, so no touching!
Hair
So I just bought a new volumizing shampoo and conditioner and I was thinking, wow, I think this stuff really made my hair become twice as thick! This is the best product ever!! Then my hair started feeling like hay and I remembered Che saying that her hair changed during pregnancy. So I don't think it's the new products afterall...only the pregnancy. Thick hair is good, hay hair is not!
Energy
Sooo tired. All I want to do is sleep. Bedtime is 9:30 now! I don't know what I'm going to do when I have class until 10!
Peeing
What?!? Why do I have to pee every 2 hours all of sudden?? There is no baby yet to push on my bladder. I wake up twice in the middle of the night. This is crazy!!
Baby Brain
I am unable to multi-task. It takes so long to get things done at work because I keep forgetting things. I spend more time opening and closing files on the computer (because I forget I still need them open), and running to and from my office to get my forgotten pen, notebook, water, jacket, purse. Then I tried to make dinner the other night. Just simple breakfast. I had 3 pans, but 4 things to cook and I nearly had a breakdown. I just stood there and stared at everything and then really began to panic! I had to ask Christopher how to cook it all! Thankfully he helped, but I still couldn't cook more than one thing at a time. Half our food ended being served cold. Please tell me this doesn't get any worse.
Emotions
I got so angry watching Memoirs of a Geisha that I started crying and had to turn the TV off (I have no idea why I got mad). Then when Christopher came home from work, he started asking me how my day was and how I was feeling, and I got so overwhelmed I basically yelled at him to stop asking me so many questions. I told him I was tired and just wanted to go to bed. I was nearly in tears by then. I think this might be a roller coaster ride for both of us!!
I have my first doctor appointment on Wednesday (Aug 22). Christopher is coming with me. He is being a really good sport about everything and is super excited. He even asked me to buy him a book so he knows what to expect. I bought him "Pregnancy Sucks: For Men. When the Miracle Makes You Both Miserable." It's really funny, but gives him the info he needs.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
4 weeks, 2 days: I guess you can't be kinda pregnant....
We have been trying to conceive since April 2007. After being one day late in this month, I wanted to test. Christopher said he wanted to wait in case I wasn't paying attention to my cycle. I came home from work today (2 days late), and told him I wanted to test. He said he wanted to wait because he wanted the surprise. I told him I wanted to know since it's my body. He finally agreed.
We had to wait for a few hours because I didn't have to pee yet. Around 8:30 on August 14th we took our first (and only) home pregnancy test. Waited the 3 min (we didn't look early).
Me: I don't suppose you can be kind of pregnant?
Him: No, why?
Me: Because there is kind of a line.
Him: We might be then?
Me: I don't know, I'm going to google it.
a few seconds pass...
Me: Well, I think we're pregnant...it says a line is a line no matter how faint.
Him: Yay! I'm so excited. (Hugs me, touches my belly.)
Me: I'm think I'm going to throw up now. This is big. And, are you going to touch my belly for 9 months??
Him: Yep. (Big smile.)
About 10 minutes later, I decide I'm going to take a picture of the test to save for a scrapbook.
Me: Where did the test go?
Him: Oh, Scout ate it. (Our beagle puppy.)
Me: How?!? It was on the counter.
Him: I don't know, but I pulled it out of her mouth and threw the rest of it away.
So much for the picture!
What's happening with the baby:
It's about 0.014 to 0.04 inches long. It's about 150 cells. The layers of cells are already sepcialized according to functions. The outer layer will become the nervous system, skin and hair; the inner layer will be the breathing and digestive organs; and the middle layer will become skeleton, bones, cartilage, muscles, circulatory system, kidneys and sex organs. It is smaller than a grain of rice.
We had to wait for a few hours because I didn't have to pee yet. Around 8:30 on August 14th we took our first (and only) home pregnancy test. Waited the 3 min (we didn't look early).
Me: I don't suppose you can be kind of pregnant?
Him: No, why?
Me: Because there is kind of a line.
Him: We might be then?
Me: I don't know, I'm going to google it.
a few seconds pass...
Me: Well, I think we're pregnant...it says a line is a line no matter how faint.
Him: Yay! I'm so excited. (Hugs me, touches my belly.)
Me: I'm think I'm going to throw up now. This is big. And, are you going to touch my belly for 9 months??
Him: Yep. (Big smile.)
About 10 minutes later, I decide I'm going to take a picture of the test to save for a scrapbook.
Me: Where did the test go?
Him: Oh, Scout ate it. (Our beagle puppy.)
Me: How?!? It was on the counter.
Him: I don't know, but I pulled it out of her mouth and threw the rest of it away.
So much for the picture!
What's happening with the baby:
It's about 0.014 to 0.04 inches long. It's about 150 cells. The layers of cells are already sepcialized according to functions. The outer layer will become the nervous system, skin and hair; the inner layer will be the breathing and digestive organs; and the middle layer will become skeleton, bones, cartilage, muscles, circulatory system, kidneys and sex organs. It is smaller than a grain of rice.
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