38 Weeks...last belly pic?

Dear Baby Girl,

Please don't give Mama crap about not having a name like everyone else, okay?  Blame your father.

Last week you hit full term!  Can you believe we made it?  You and me little one, we've shared so much together these 9 months.  Not all of the moments have been easy, but they have all been magical.   How you can bond with someone who is not even born yet I will never know....but I feel like we already know each other so well. 

And now, in maybe just a few short days...I'll be able to hold you in my arms and see you move instead of watching you move like a crazy alien in my belly.  Although Mama is super anxious about this whole giving birth process, I could not be more thrilled to finally see your little face.  I wonder if you'll look like me?  Or your daddy?  Will you have our height?  My ability to be completely immature and silly?  Or your daddy's calm and cool nature?

The only thing I'm sure of is that we both love you so much already.  It is hard to imagine being a family of three, but we are so excited for the changes you are going to bring to our lives.  We promise you we're going to do everything we can to keep you safe and warm every single day. 

Love you baby girl and I cannot wait to meet you!

Your Mama (AKA:  The lady whose bladder you keep dancing on...)

34 Weeks!

Happy Friday y'all!  I'm so excited the weekend is almost here.  But I'm mostly excited because after today I only have one more week of work!!  Can you believe it?  After over four years at this awful place I finally get to pack up and leave.  And I'm leaving for the best possible reason ever...to take care of my little girl.

I've had a few appointments this week and everything is looking great.  They upped my insulin levels a wee bit at night but doc told me I was doing a good job so that makes me smile.  And our sweet girl is in the 52% in weight according to our last ultrasound...so she's completely normal.  No fat baby here yet!

And really I'm feeling pretty great too.  I get tired much quicker if I'm cooking or baking in the kitchen...and the babes can pack a serious punch these days that startles the poo out of me on a regular basis...but other than that it's been fabulous.  Compared to the first 1/2 of pregnancy...this has been a dream.

Next week is going to be super busy!  We have a few more baby classes, we're meeting with our potential pediatrician, and I have a few events planned in celebration of my last day of work.  And then, you know, Matt's birthday is the 20th!  Don't worry.  His shopping is done :)  Now, what to make him for dinner??  Hm.

33 Weeks...and a Shower Sneak Peak!

Morning friends!  Sorry it's been a million years since I last posted.  I really don't mean to take these breaks.  Work has just been insane with me leaving and the impending holidays at my new, not fully unpacked house are taking their toll.  Thanks for sticking with me!

Today marks 33 weeks for me and the babes.  We're doing well and feeling okay.  I get tired by the end of the day but other than that I truly can't complain.

My diabetes specialist put me on insulin in the evenings to curve my high blood sugar readings in the morning.  Jabbing myself every night with a needle in the belly is certainly not my idea of a good time...but again, I'm thankful there is something I can do to help our little girl.

Because I'm on insulin, I have to go into the doctor twice a week for the remainder of my pregnancy.   I had an ultrasound on Monday and she was measuring just two days ahead of schedule!  I'm so relieved!  I actually asked the tech if she was already huge and she just laughed at me.  So far, I have a 4 1/2 lb. beautiful little girl.

I also had to be put on monitors whilst I was in the office to make sure her heart rate was normal.  I was in the room with one other woman whose little one was just beating away completely normally.  But not ours!  She kept moving around like crazy and making the machine get really loud totally out of the blue.  Honestly, it was hilarious!  My girl does not stay in one place any longer.  The doctor kept walking by and saying, "happy baby!"  She sure is!

We start our childbirth classes this weekend!  Things are really starting to come together.  I haven't really let myself think about giving birth because honestly the thought of it terrifies me...but I'm starting to get more comfortable with the idea of actually having our baby.  I mean, it's one day, right?  And then I get to take home our sweet little girl and love on her every second of every day.  I simply cannot wait!

And for your viewing pleasure, here's a little sneak peak at some pics from my shower I had over Thanksgiving weekend at home.  It was so beautiful and everything my family put together was just perfect!  I'll share more when I get some pics from my sis.

Pay attention to the gorgeous candy buffet.  Sure, it's a diabetics nightmare...but so worth it.

Jenny: The Update

I have been a complete blog slacker this week.  And it's kinda sad because I've actually had a really busy week and so much has gone on!  So an update you shall receive...since you asked, right?

Right.

• Last weekend my in-laws came up to visit and we enjoyed Sunday at the Fabulous Food Show.  We saw a presentation by this guy...

 source

...which was super cool because he's actually from Cleveland.  Like, he's famous and he still lives here.  I know.  It's weird.  But it was a really cool show. 

Then we hopped around to different booths sampling all of the yummy food Cleveland has to offer.  My favorite?  Hm.  I'd have to go with the cheeses.  I do love me some cheese.

• I had a blood pressure check on Monday and it was still slightly elevated.  I have to have one more today to determine whether or not I have to go on meds for high blood pressure.  Fingers crossed I don't have to.  I was super borderline last time so I'm hoping for a good number today.  Send me relaxing thoughts, okay?  I'm also meeting with the dietitian beforehand.  I've had so many appointments this week it's making my head spin.

• I visited with a friend on Tuesday and she gave me lots of helpful new parenting advice as well as recommended a pediatrician.  Call me crazy but finding a pediatrician before our baby is even born was not something I ever knew I had to do.  Clearly I'm clueless.  But I'm in the loop now and we have a little meet and greet next month!

• Wednesday I met with a nurse in the diabetic department and she gave me lots of helpful hints about my diet and what I should and should not be eating.  I have made some changes and am really trying to do what is best for my little girl.  Things are going fairly well, but sometimes my blood sugar levels are elevated in the morning and I have no idea why.  It's a little frustrating to not be able to totally control this...

• If you can believe it...I actually purchased some clothes.  No I am not lying.  I spent money on myself.  And it was not on food.  I had a Junior League event last night that required a nicer looking outfit than jeans and a t-shirt so I was forced.  I bought some new black pants, a few sweaters, and some dressier shirts.  I can now attend church again and look respectable.

• Last night was our annual fundraiser for the Junior League.  It was an okay time for the price ($65 and I couldn't take part in the open bar?  I'm thinking I got screwed...) but I got to catch up with some girls I haven't seen in quite a while so it was worth the trip downtown.  

• I'm hoping to get the rest of the baby furniture ordered this weekend as well as our dining room table so it will be all ready for the holidays.  I have a full day of volunteering on Saturday at the hospital and a baby shower on Sunday.  I'm tired just thinking about it...  Aren't weekends for relaxing?

• I officially have 17 more working days left.  I simply cannot believe it.  And only 9 more weeks of pregnancy.  I'm in the single digits!  I can't believe in just a few short months our lives are going to change so drastically.  It's so overwhelming...but incredibly exciting all at the same time!

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!  I cannot wait for next week!  We're only working on Monday and then it's home to Indy for some serious family time :)  Yeah!  And the last time Matt and I will ever drive home just the two of us.  Ah!  I'm gonna be a MOM!!

30 Weeks! And a Huge Update...

This week has been a little crazy in the baby department.  I found out on Thursday that I do indeed have gestational diabetes.  Lovely.  Apparently my levels were so high that I didn't even need the 3 hour test...straight to the specialist for me.  So what does this mean for me and the babes? 

• My insulin levels have become a little screwy during the end of the pregnancy.  If not treated, it can result in my baby growing larger than normal giving us an increased risk of having to have a C-section and /or low blood sugar levels for our little girl when born.  I am also at double the risk of having to be induced because of the baby being in distress.

• They are fairly certain, according to previous blood work, that this is not something I had before I became pregnant.  This is great news as diabetes can result in major problems early in pregnancy when the baby is just developing.  

So what's happening now?

• I went to a diabetes specialist on Friday.  He gave me some information about gestational diabetes and assured me that it was not something I did to our little girl.  I was (and honestly still am) having a hard time feeling guilty about harming her.  But the doctor was very helpful and convinced me that this is not uncommon and with treatment I will not have to give birth to a "fat baby."  Which by the way is what the official name is for it.  Isn't that awful?  My poor little fat baby.  I actually asked him if our baby was already a fatty and he said no.  Thank goodness!

• I have to check my blood sugar 4 times a day.  Like straight up prick my finger and take my blood 4 times a day.  I have a little pack I have to carry around with me and record everything.  I have become my grandmother.

• I have to take these levels to the doctor in about 10 days to discuss whether or not I will need insulin injections.  Luckily...my readings so far have been in the required ranges so it is not looking like I will need this...thank goodness!  But only time will tell.

• I also have to meet with a nutritionist next week to give me some advice on a diet.  Apparently it's not as simple as giving up candy bars.  :)  There's a little more to it and I'm very anxious to figure out what I can do to help this move in the right direction.

Following my appointment with my specialist, I had my regular appointment with my OB.  Turns out not only do I have gestational diabetes, my blood pressure is also high.  I know.  What else can go wrong?  But, she assured me that diabetes and high blood pressure often go together and it again is nothing I have done.  I have to get rechecked on Monday and if my blood pressure is still elevated I will be put on medication to treat that.

Also, I am now required to be monitored much more closely due to the diabetes.  Starting in two weeks I will have to go to my doctor every week, be hooked up to a monitor from 20-60 minutes, and sit on my booty while the baby's heart rate is monitored.  They're checking to make sure she is not in any sort of distress.  I will also have to have two more ultrasounds before she's born in order to make sure her growth is on track.

My doctor did say that babies of mother's with gestational diabetes are usually born healthier and easier than even normal babies because they are so closely monitored.  So I guess that's an upside.  And I'm really glad that we caught this in time and there are ways to treat it.  I know it could be a lot worse but I'm so thankful it is something that I have some control over now and can help our little girl as much as possible.

So anyway, prayers are appreciated!

We're 30 weeks!  Only 10 more weeks to go little one.  Please say in there as long as possible and cook away.  And let Mommy know just what you need, okay?  I'd do anything for you.  Even give up cupcakes.  And I wouldn't do that for just anyone. 

29 Weeks!

29 weeks and counting!  I can't believe my little girl is almost in her 30's!  Insane I tell you!  And she's getting so big....2 1/2 lbs.  She's been kicking up a storm too.  It's so amazing to me to feel her moving around in there.  Amazing.  And, you know, a little weird :)

I'm feeling pretty great too!  Matt is officially in charge of tying my shoes now, but other than that, I am a fully functional human being.  I'm sleeping well, I never get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, my hips rarely hurt, and my occasional back pain is minimal and wins me a massage. 

My parents are visiting today and bringing along my grandma so we're in for a fun filled weekend!  I whipped up some cinnamon rolls last night as well as Oreo cheesecake bars so if those are a success...expect recipes!  I'm all about cooking up a storm when we have guests.  What can I say...I'm a born entertainer!  So after my repeat glucose screening tomorrow...fun awaits!

Here we are at 29 weeks!  Have a great weekend friends!

28 Weeks...and House Pictures (FINALLY!)

28 weeks.  28 weeks.  I made it to the third trimester!  I can't believe this is already 2/3's over.  In just a few short months we are going to be able to actually meet our little girl!  She's real you know.  I felt her kick :)

My glucose screening test is on Tuesday (can't wait...) and I also have to get an Rh shot because apparently I am in the 20% of women who are Rh negative.  Great odds, huh?  But I took the day off, so score one for Jenny on that one! 

I have made some serious headway unpacking this week as my parents are visiting next weekend.  But did you know that when you're pregnant, you can't really do as much physical labor as you were able to do before?  I know, right?  Who knew?  I get winded pretty quickly and bending over to unpack a box has my abs feeling like I've been doing several hours of Pilates.  So with frequent breaks I have been able to knock out all of the upstairs and most of the office.  Yippee!

We're going to finish registering for the major tickets items this weekend as my sis is sending out the shower invites soon!  I cannot wait to have this registry done!  Then, you know, I can start receiving gifts :)  Ha!

So without further ado, here is my 28 week belly shot:

Girl is large and in charge.  How much bigger can I really get in 12 weeks?  Yikes.  Guess I'll just have to wait and see!

Now, some of you have been requesting house pictures!  I've been trying to hold you off until I got unpacked, but I figured you might want to see them before my little girl turns one so you'll have to excuse the boxes :)  Just pretend they're not there, okay?  And that we have furniture.

Up first, the dining room.  It is currently holding all of those items that were in the basement of our hold house that I know we don't need.  So I'm making Matt look through everything with me and for the love all that is holy please give some stuff away.  Until then, it will sit here.  Or until we buy a table.

This is looking into the living room from the dining room.  It is filled with a mixture of furniture that was in our old basement.  Low on the priority list to replace...so it will probably look like this for a few years.  But eventually it will be beautiful...
 

Also downstairs is the study.  It has really cool french doors which I wanted you to see.

I'm still in unpacking mode in this room and we have to build the desk/bookcase...but you get the idea.

That's all for now!  Still up, kitchen...family room...and all of the upstairs!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

27 Weeks!

27 weeks people!  My little girl is a whole 2 lbs. now!  Believe me, I can tell.  I feel like my belly has expanded exponentially in the last few weeks.  She's a growin'! 

P.S.  So are my boobs.  How they can still be growing I have no idea.  When I was doing laundry on Sunday, I tried to put on one of my old bras and I couldn't even get it around my waist to fasten it!  INSANE!  Putting clothes on that I haven't tried on in a while is SO not my idea of fun...

Along with her growth spurts I have developed back pain and more severe leg cramps.  You know the kind that wake you up and you have to get out of bed and walk around to make them stop?  Yeah.  That's what I have.  But I'm soaking up as many massages as I can from the hubs...so that's a plus! 

Also, I'm feeling a bit more prepared for our little one's arrival.  We have nailed down some pieces of furniture to order...just waiting on some info about our glider and then we're golden.  What do you think??

I'm pretty much in love with it.  I didn't think I would get black furniture as I was leaning toward more of a pink/brown theme....but as soon as I saw this crib I knew it had to be mine :)  Good thing I waited to paint/decorate!  Ha!

We're also going to register this weekend!  I have started already online and made a serious dent, but I think a trip to the store is in order.  So that should be an adventure!

I have a doctor's appointment today and then in about a week I go for my glucose test.  Yum.  Not.  Hopefully all goes well with that and I know getting it done and out of the way will be a load off of my mind. 

I have been feeling her moving more and more lately, but I still feel behind in this area.  The only time I feel definite kicks/punches is at night when I roll over a bit too fast and she says, "Mom!  Stop!  I was trying to sleep!"  But other than that, it's more of a bubble feeling throughout the day.  How am I supposed to start counting kicks when I can't tell what the heck are kicks?  Blech.

I'm starting to have some serious issues getting up off the couch.  It's fairly low to the ground to begin with and it is just not a pretty sight.  Also, I discovered last night that my favorite position to sit on the couch is no longer working out.  You see, I'm crazy.  Apparently I cannot just sit on a couch like a normal person.  I must have my feet up at all times.  Not all sprawled out laying down or anything.  Just criss-crossed or folded up or something.  I didn't really know I did this until a few years ago when Matt told me.  And it's so true.  But now, having my legs all curled up squishes my stomach and it is not comfortable.  So you'd think I'd resort to sitting like a normal human being?  Nope.  Insert foot stool.

Today, you get the privilege of a t-shirt pic :)  I had to sport my Purdue shirt as they are playing Ohio State tomorrow and I need to represent.  Enjoy..

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend!  We're having company on Sunday....our first guests to our new house!  So, clearly I will be cleaning :)

XOXO

26 Weeks!

I made it to 26 sweet weeks!  They just keep flying by!
Not too much pregnancy wise has been going on this week.  But we're working on furniture/registering this weekend...and I have a doctor's appointment next week.

So I'll just share a little picture with y'all.  Because those are always more fun than me babbling about how my sleep and eating are going.  But if you are interested, I'm TIRED.  And HUNGRY.  Shocking, right?  :)

She's a growing little girl :)

25 Weeks..and Cookies!!

I think I'm going to change up the format a little bit for these posts.  I'm boring myself...

I'm 25 weeks pregnant.  25 freaking weeks.  Gosh I need to get my act together.  I feel like we haven't done anything.  No name, no furniture, no registry.  But then again, I feel like we have time.  Oh...I need to make a list.  Like now.

This week has been fairly intense.  Work has been overly stressful as I have had some personnel issues AND we found out yesterday that one of my friends who had just gotten let go last week died.  It's heartbreaking.  I don't really have any info about it, but my heart is so heavy.  He was just so young and seemingly happy.  It's all very confusing and just so sad.

On a lighter note, I've also been busy working on some cookies for a girl I work with.  She is pregnant as well and is having a beautiful baby boy next month!  Here is what I've been doing for the last three days after work:

I think they turned out really great!  I just hope she likes them!

Also this week I received a lovely package in the mail from my dear sister full of new maternity clothes!  Just what I needed, right?  What a blessing!

Pregnancy wise I have been feeling pretty great!  The second trimester rocks my world.  I'm having some trouble bending over now...and getting up off the couch...but I'll take that in a second over hip pain and throwing up.  Plus, I'm thinking these issues are going to get worse before they get better :)

AND, I'm pretty sure I can feel her moving in there now.  It's a weird sensation that feels a lot like bubbles popping.  And it's really low?  It's not super often but it's noticeable.  So either I feel her or I've been trying to get my husband to feel my own gas.  Hm.  Guess time will tell.

Onto the pics!  25 weeks = first belly pic in our new house!

 

How is it already 24 weeks....?

Sorry I've been a little MIA this week. We have a LOT going on.  As of Wednesday, we are officially homeowners!  I almost can't believe it!  And the house is just beautiful.  I am so happy with all of our selections and I cannot wait to see how it looks with furniture!

Our new refrigerator is being delivered today!  Woot!  And tomorrow is THE DAY.  You know the one.  MOVING DAY.  Ick.  I hate anything and everything about moving.  Sometimes I think it will be no big deal.  We'll get everything done, right?  Matt's parents are here.  We're getting moving helpers.  Matt's all Mr. Fix-it-y and "I can install this myself" kind of guy.  What can go wrong?

Hm.

I'll let you know.

So as busy as we have been, I never really let it sink in I was 23 weeks pregnant.  And now I'm 24.  In two seconds I'll be 40 weeks and we'll have a baby.  Okay.  I need to stop.  I almost had a heart attack.



How Far Along:  24 weeks! 

Maternity Clothes:  I'm sick of talking about maternity clothes so this will be the last time.  Clearly I need more, but I'm cheap and too lazy to go shopping.  End of story.

Sleep: Pretty great this week actually.

Food: No problems here!

Best Moment of the Week:  Seeing our sweet girl in 3D on Saturday for sure.  Very, very cool. 

What I Miss:  Getting up off the floor without assistance.  Being able to stand for long periods of time without getting tired.  Thinking it was easy to put on socks and shoes. 

What I'm Looking Forward to:  The day we are completely unpacked, our old house is spotless, and we are living in our new home.  Hm.  Hopefully that's Sunday!

23 weeks!

How Far Along:  23 weeks!  So far this pregnancy is really flying by.  Even when I was throwing up all.the.time. the weeks just kept ticking away!  Our baby girl will be here before we know it and I am so NOT prepared! 

Maternity Clothes:  I'm seriously running low on pre-pregnancy clothes I can fit into.  I need to just go shopping and quit worrying about spending the money.  I mean, I need clothes.  Getting dressed in the morning is starting to depress me.

Sleep:  I haven't had too much hip pain this week which has been delightful.  I've added another pillow into the mix to prop up the babes....so grand total is now three.  I feel like I'm in a barricade.

Food:  Some smells get to me...but in general I can eat (and will eat) anything.  Well, anything I would eat before the little one came along.  They say your baby will come out liking things you ate whilst pregnant.  My baby's favorite food is currently ice cream.  Great.

Best Moment of the Week:  We have an appointment for a second ultrasound TODAY!  Our little snobby snob would not show us her face last time and it is a necessary picture for the doctors to have.  So today's the day.  Hopefully!  And confirmation that we are indeed having a little girl would be nice :)

What I Miss:  I miss being able to get off the couch, bed, or a chair and not struggle.  And bending over is becoming more of a challenge.  But that's really about it!

What I'm Looking Forward to:  Today's ultrasound...tomorrow's 3D ultrasound and looking at nursery furniture...moving into our new house NEXT WEEK!  And, as a continuing celebration of our anniversary, we're going to the Melting Pot tonight.  I LOVE that place.  Oh I cannot wait!  What a great day!


Hubs forgot to put the pic up today.  Seriously.  I give the boy one job.  Good thing he's so gosh darn cute.

22 Weeks!

My baby girl is a whole pound!  What a milestone we have reached!  She's growing so beautifully (judging by the size of my growing belly!) and is just perfect.

And before I go any further, I want to thank each and every one of you for your comments on last week's post.  It's so comforting to have this outlet that reaches so many people who can relate to what I am going through.  It makes me feel not alone out there on this journey.  Y'all are wonderful and I am so thankful I've "met" you :)  Smooches!

How Far Along:  22 weeks! 

Maternity Clothes:  Both.  I wore my Bears jersey during the game last week and it was not pretty.  It is basically a belly shirt now and can no longer be worn in public.  Which is depressing.  I need to go shopping.

Sleep:  The hip pain continues but not every night, so I feel blessed.  I've finally started getting up to use the restroom maybe 3-4 times a week.  Guess I couldn't hold out forever!  I've also been getting intense leg cramps when I stretch my legs out...but that has been going on for quite some time.  My solution = stop moving my legs that way.  Problem solved!

Food:   No issues here!

Best Moment of the Week:  Not too much happened this week.  Which is a huge blessing because the next two weeks are hectic to say the least.

What I'm Looking Forward to:   In one week we have our next ultrasound and hopefully get to see our daughter's beautiful face this time!  AND, after that we are having a 3D ultrasound!  I am thrilled to be able to do this.  It's actually kind of a cool story but I'll save that for next week.  On another note, we get to do a walk through of the house on Monday!!  It's almost done and I cannot wait to see what it looks like with actual walls this time!

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend!  Ours will likely be spent watching copious amounts of football and shopping for a refrigerator!  Yippee!

21 weeks!

My baby girl is growing!  She's now the size of a banana!  And like a lot of the other fruit references....I indeed have a banana in my lunch today.  Yum!

This week has been a little difficult emotionally on me.  My Labor Day weekend was not super relaxing and it left me feeling a little stressed.  I got sick twice on Tuesday...once at work (ick)...and have just been feeling a little off.  I haven't been able to feel the baby move yet, and I'm really down about it.  I know everyone is different and it's not to the point where it's abnormal I haven't felt anything yet...but it's hard.  I feel like we're missing out on a huge milestone and building a stronger connection to our sweet girl. 

And the worst part, I've convinced myself it is because I was not the skinniest girl on the planet before I conceived.  So now I picture my sweet, innocent baby surrounded by all my fat, trying so hard to move around, but suffocating in the process.  I know.  I'm being dramatic.  And Matt may've laughed when I told him this.  So clearly I'm ridiculous.  But I can't help feeling like it's somehow my fault.

Anyhow, let's move onto happier thoughts, shall we?

How Far Along:  21 weeks! 

Maternity Clothes:  Boy do I need some more shirts.  I'm having trouble fitting into my T-shirts.  Not cool.

Sleep:  I have now developed intense hip pain during the night.  I feel like an elderly person.  I sleep with a pillow between my knees...but I think by the end of the night it has flattened so much it begins to bother my hips.  And it's the kind of pain that wakes you up.  Ouch!  Suggestions?

Food:   Clearly food it not an issue for me.

Best Moment of the Week:  Hm.  Is it sad that I can't think of anything?

What I'm Looking Forward to:   This month is insane.  With Junior League starting up, buying a house, our anniversary, and more doctor's appointments coming up....I'm really just looking forward to October.

Halfway! Whoa! You Got Me Halfway!

The fact that I am halfway through this pregnancy boggles my mind.  I mean, I feel like it was just yesterday I was throwing up every.single.day and now all of a sudden there is a little person jumping around inside me that I could not love more if I tried.
 
How Far Along:  20 weeks!  Holy cow...my baby is a cantaloupe!  I really am enjoying my second trimester.  I haven't gotten sick in a good two weeks and my energy levels are definitely higher than they were at the beginning of this journey.  I won't be running any marathons, but hey, I can pack a few boxes.  And that's where I'm needed.  (And let's be honest...I couldn't run a marathon before I got knocked up.)

Maternity Clothes:  Still rocking both!

Sleep:  Okay.  I wake up quite frequently to move around...but overall it's a-okay.

Food:   I've been able to go back to my usual snacks of Fiber One Bars and yogurt!  Nothing I can think of really makes me icky anymore...which is such a blessing.

Best Moment of the Week:  I think the treats we sent out to our families regarding the sex of our little one should be arriving TODAY!  So I'm looking forward to the phone calls that will inevitably follow.

What I'm Looking Forward to:   My in-laws are coming up today for a visit and to help us finish up some packing.  They seriously are the loveliest people on earth.  I'm super excited to share in the excitement of our little one and to enjoy some time together. 

And as a little catch up...I have included both week 19 and week 20 belly pics...

Please forgive my stupid smile.  I was laughing mid pic...ick.

Boy or Girl? I Find Out Today!

It's here!!

Today's the day Matty and I will find out if we're having a little girl or a little boy!  Fingers crossed our little one is not shy!

The funny thing is, I'm not overly excited or nervous for the big reveal.  Maybe I will be when I finally know...but it's not something I've been dying to know from the beginning.  I just can't wait for the chance to see our little baby again.  The last time we saw him/her it was just a little peanut!  Remember??

So little!  And now our baby is a a huge mango and can hear us.  Isn't that just amazing? 

But with this knowledge comes great responsibility.  Now I have to start, you know, doing things.  We've been putting off a lot such as registering, picking out nursery furniture, even talking about names...all until we found out the sex.  Which is today.  Which means today...I can no longer put things off.  Today...I shall make...decisions!!  Eek!  Well, maybe tomorrow.

How Far Along:  19 weeks!  I still can't feel the little booger move...but I know it is.  I'm excited to see all the movement today.  And I haven't mentioned this for fear of jinxing myself...but I haven't gotten sick in over a week!  Yeah!  And no more meds!  I think 18 weeks was my magic number :)  Thank goodness.

Maternity Clothes:  Still a little of both.  But with the cooler temperatures on the horizon, I see the need for a pair of black pants in my future.  And some more shirts!  Let's go shopping, shall we?

Sleep:  I really can't complain.  I still don't get up to pee which I see as a major blessing.  I wake up a lot...but I just roll over and fall back asleep.  I am remembering way more of my dreams lately though.  Last night, for instance, I dreamt I had a baby boy...at 19 weeks...and he came out so small but perfectly fine.  Like, I didn't have to keep him in the hospital at all.  And we were staying at my grandma's house (?) and the baby looked EXACTLY like Matt and had his exact hair already.  It was weird.

Food:   I've still been eating really well during the day.  But we perhaps made a cheesecake last Sunday....of which I have had a piece or two every single day this week when I get home from work.  Dairy = good right?

Best Moment of the Week:  We signed up for all of our childbirth classes!  We aren't taking them until December, but apparently they fill up super quickly so we're good to go there.  Also, although this has really nothing to do with the baby, I have gotten some major packing completed this week and it feels fabulous!

What I'm Looking Forward to:   Finding out the sex of our beautiful baby...and seeing his or her little face TODAY!!!  I'm also looking forward to spreading the news!  My mama completely stole my thunder with my pregnancy announcement so I've learned my lesson.  She is going to find out when everyone else I want to tell does.  Through the mail!  Ha, ha, ha!

I did take a belly pic today...but we ran out of time in the morning to post it...so perhaps I will do that next week!  Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!  Some friends of Matt's invited us to dinner and a movie tonight, much to my chagrin...is Piranha 3D.  I cannot believe I have to pay money to see this.

I Have a House...and a Huge Belly!

I spent Wednesday evening with several girlfriends at Melt in Lakewood.  Melt specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches...but has seriously crazy varieties.  It is always super busy so I've only ever eaten there once before....and this time was just as yummy.

I decided on The Godfather.   Here's the description:
3 cheese lasagna, fresh fennel-oregano pasta sheets, spicy red sauce, provolone, garlic spiked bread

Dude.

It was insanely good.

Yesterday, Matt and I were invited to walk through our new house for a pre-drywall inspection.  Oh ladies, I could not be happier with how everything is coming along.  It almost makes me want to cry looking at how everything we chose is coming together so beautifully and perfect.  I snapped a picture of the outside which is almost completely done.  I'm in love...and those trees....they're staying :)

Now, onto the babies!

How Far Along:  18 weeks! Apparently my baby is moving like crazy; however, I cannot feel it yet!  Honestly, it's driving me nuts.  I went in for a checkup last week and the doctor listened to the heartbeat and said she could hear the baby moving a lot.  It's completely surreal to not be able to feel it yet.  I just can't wait!!

Maternity Clothes:  Oh yeah.  I still wear mostly normal shirts...but the baby is even poking out of t-shirts now.  I'm thinking the days of wearing my normal clothes are almost behind me.

Sleep:  Mostly not bad...but last night I could not fall asleep to save my life.  But overall...no complaints.

Food:   I've really stepped up my eating healthy routine this week. I stocked up on strawberries, grapes, and pineapple and have been eating chicken wraps for lunch.  The only bad part of my day is when I get home from work.  I have no control and keep making myself nachos.  I cannot stop! 

Best Moment of the Week:  Getting to hear my little one's heartbeat again.  150 and going strong!  We also chose where we are going to deliver our sweet baby...and having started investigating child birth classes.

What I'm Looking Forward to:   In one week we have the ultrasound to find out what we're having!  I just can't wait to see our little baby again and see how much he or she has grown!  I'm hoping everything looks just perfect :)  Also, I'm attending my first pre-natal yoga class on Monday with a friend of Matt's who is due one day before me!  Can't wait!

17 Weeks...and Cakes!

Alrighty!

Before we see my ever growing belly, how about we see some cakes, shall we?

The Glee cake was due this week...and the customer went with the square cake and a dozen cupcakes.  I think they turned out great!

Yes, I have two Kitchen aid Stand Mixers.  And yes, I need them both.

=

Now.  Onto all things baby!

How Far Along:  17 weeks!  Apparently our baby is an onion.  That just seems so big to me!  Our little one is a-growin' :) And my belly, she's a-itchin'.

Maternity Clothes:  Mostly.  I wear maternity jeans and I have a few shirts now...but I mostly still wear my pre-pregnancy shirts.  They're starting to get a little tight in the bust area though.  Great.

Sleep:  Not too bad!  I still don't get up to pee at all!

Food:   I heart food.  But I heart crappy food.  I'm determined to be healthier with this pregnancy starting....NOW!  Doritos = out...fruit smoothies = in!

Best Moment of the Week:  Baby walked.  And walked.  And walked.  And then we got to come home to Daddy which was amazingly lovely.

What I'm Looking Forward to:   My third appointment is today!  And in two weeks...finding out what our precious baby is!

15 Weeks!

How Far Along:  15 weeks!  Our little one is the size of a whole orange today.  Baby is growing like crazy!

Maternity Clothes:  Finally!  I got myself some jeans and a new shirt last weekend in Canada.  I'm so glad I did!  The jeans are a little big right now though...and have a tendency to fall down.  I guess that's one good thing about wearing a lab coat all day, huh?  :)

Sleep:  It's off and on.  I wake up quite a bit but I feel as if this week has been an improvement over the others.

Food:  I learned last night....not a fan of the pasta.  I cooked a meal (!) and then couldn't even eat it.  So I had three Pringles and called it a night.  At 8:00 p.m. 

Best Moment of the Week:  Baby's first trip out of the country!

What I'm Looking Forward to:   Getting this dreaded 3-day over with...and finally feeling our little baby move around in my tummy!

14 weeks! With Belly Pics People!

How Far Along:  14 whole weeks!  I am officially into my 2nd trimester!  I cannot believe how quickly the weeks are flying by.  It is simply amazing to me to think of our little bean we saw at 8 weeks and how much he or she has grown.  Our baby is already able to suck it's thumb!  The thought just makes me smile.

Maternity Clothes:  Um, I tried on clothes for a weekend trip last night and it was NOT pretty.  I'm glad I'm just going to see friends who know I'm pregnant....because I'm completely engrossed in the stage where I just look fat.

Sleep:  I slept great last night...but that was the first time all week.  I am very uncomfortable when I sleep and I wake up quite often.  I usually don't have to get up and pee though...so I consider that a plus :)

Food:  Nothing's really changed for me in the food department.  I feel like I'm always hungry...but then I get full really quickly.  This leads to me eating approximately every 2 hours.  Honestly, it's on my nerves.

Best Moment of the Week:  Can't really think of anything super spectacular that happened this week.  I did have quite a good day on Saturday...like good enough that I thought, "Am I starting to feel better??"  But then I got sick on Sunday.  Mean trick baby.  Mean.

What I'm Looking Forward to:   A super spontaneous visit to see some of my besties today!!  I can't wait to tell you all about it!!

And I finally did it.  I now present to you what you've been asking for.  My first belly pics.  This is baby and me at 14 weeks.  I think I have hidden my bump so well from even myself by wearing t-shirts and sweats all the time that it actually surprised me how big it was!  Eek! Granted, some of that may have been there before the baby arrived...but let's just pretend it's all baby, k?

Oh, and I got my hairs cut yesterday!