Little Miss' Arrival Story - Part 2

You can read Little Miss' Arrival Story - Part 1 here.  

I think the nurse was a little concerned that I was already 6 cm because things started moving quickly.  She asked me if I wanted an epidural and when I said yes, she said she would draw my blood and get it sent down to a lab as it takes 30-60 minutes to get back before an epidural can be given.  I also informed her my Strep B test had come back positive, so she started an iv of antibiotics.  A tech came in to set up the delivery  table and asked us if we thought she should turn on the warmer yet.  P and I just looked at each other  wondering how quickly things were going to happen.  The nurse came back in and stated that they hadn't received my chart from the doctor's office (the nurse on Friday at my appointment said she was going to send it that day), so she was trying to find that.  The nurse was able to give me some Fent.anyl through my iv to take some of the edge off.  

As soon as the med was started, P and I decided we should discuss names.  We hadn't decided on a boy's name, but did have a girl's name picked out -- we just hadn't decided which would be the first and which would be the middle.  We also called both sets of parents to let them know what was going on.  

Around 3:00 my labwork came back and cleared me to get the epidural.  A very kind and gentle anesthesiologist came in to get that started.  The weirdest part of it was the giant stickers they put on my back to keep it in place.  Immediately I felt relief from the contractions and pain.  At this point P decided to go home to pick up our bags (and to pack his).  While he was gone, the nurse inserted a catheter that would stay in place until I was ready to push.  She left the room and it was just me, alone, listening to my baby's heartbeat.  I will never forget those quiet moments enjoying the last moments of her inside of me.  

I got a new nurse shortly after that as there was a shift change.  Little did I know there would be another new nurse before baby arrived.

I continued to make progress with dilation, though it was slower than I think the nurses anticipated.  I continued to feel good and baby's heartbeat remained strong and steady. The nurse kept telling me that she could feel a giant bag of water when she checked my status.  

P came back at about 5 p.m. and my parents followed him into the room for a short visit.  They had been playing golf and my step-mom had been using a pink and blue ball that day.  They dropped them off as souvenirs, check how we were doing, and then headed back home to wait for news.  

Shortly after that my doctor came in for the first time.  She checked my status and at that point decided to break my water to get things moving.  I heard her say the fluid was clear, and then she jumped up and said there was muconium in it. I was bummed to hear this as it meant there would need to be staff from NICU there at delivery, and that I wouldn't likely get the immediate skin-to-skin time that I wanted.  I also worried it would result in a NICU stay.  

Around 6:15, the nurse checked me again and I was fully dilated.  I felt an urge to push, so she said I could start.  She asked if we had taken the birthing classes, and when we answered no, she said she would teach me how to push.  It was basically pushing really hard toward my bottom with her holding one leg and P holding the other and me grabbing onto my thighs.  Not exactly a flattering or comfortable position.  It also didn't help that Little Miss' foot was pushing on my left rib cage.  Every time I pushed, I felt her foot and imagined her "kicking off".  I would push for 4 counts, 3 times in a row with each contraction and then rest.     By now, my contractions were coming about every 2 - 2.5 minutes.  P gave me a goal of having the baby out by 7:00.  

That goal quickly became 7:15, then 7:30, then 8:00.  As time wore on, I got very tired, and was getting discouraged as well.  I had gotten sick a couple of times, was sweating like crazy and generally felt like I couldn't push anymore.  P and the nurse kept encouraging me, telling me I was doing a good job.  I remember at one point the nurse saying she could see dark hair on the baby's head, and then when the doctor came in, she said she saw blond hair.  I felt like I was being duped -- where they really seeing the baby's head at all?  During this time, I was also feeling ripped off as the epidural was not creating the comfort I had hoped for and believed would come from it.  I was feeling every single contraction rip through my uterus.  (I had always thought I would want to try labor without an epidural and so I somehow think the epidural not working so well was fulfilling that thought).  I kept telling the nurse that I could feel everything, but there was nothing that could be done at that point.  

Around 8:00, the doctor said "let's get ready for delivery" and at that point, they turned on the big spotlight, and converted the bed into a delivery bed, along with rolling the delivery tool table closer to the bed (the room we were in was gigantic -- probably 700 square feet).  I remember turning to P and saying -- "was that seriously just the pregame?"  I felt like I couldn't go anymore, and stated it several times. I was put on oxygen and I kept pulling the mask off as it was hot and annoying.  I was screaming and grunting through every push and contraction, and the contractions were coming so quickly that it felt like once I got through pushing 3 times, another contraction was upon me and I was having to push again.  There was no resting.  

Around 8:15, I saw a concerned look on my doctor's face, and I mentioned it to her.  She said she had been massaging my perineum to help it allow the baby's head through.  She said she thought we might have to move on to a c-section.  At that point, I said "do whatever you need to" and actually started to ask for a c-section just so I could stop pushing.  I was absolutely desperate to have this baby out.  I was also telling P that all of the women who told me an epidural was awesome and took away all of the pain had lied to me.  I could tell he was getting concerned about how much time it was taking as well, but he continued to encourage me to keep going.  I remember the nurse and doctor asking him if he wanted to look at the progress, but he repeatedly passed.  The doctor said she wanted me to push for another 15 minutes before anything was decided on the c-section, as the baby, was stable and doing well.  

Finally, around 8:40, the doctor said she was going to try doing an episiotomy and asked me for my approval.  I again told her to do whatever she needed to to get the baby out.  Once she completed the cut, I pushed twice, baby was out, P was being asked if he wanted to cut the cord (he declined, but then was convinced to), they were showing her to me, and then she was rushed over to the warming unit where the neonatologist and NICU nurse were waiting to exam baby.  As soon as she came out, the doctor said "It's a girl", but I don't think it registered with me as I was just so relieved that she was out.  

P followed her over to the warming table and we were asked if she had a name yet.  I think P and I both knew individually right away what it should be, but I wanted us to be able to discuss it first and come to agreement.  While he was over there, I watched from afar as I delivered the placenta and my doctor stitched me up.  I asked the doctor and nurse how big they thought she was and they estimated about 7 pounds.

After about 10 minutes, the neonatologist came over and told me that even though there was muconium in her fluid, baby girl was healthy and doing well (he had a heavy accent, so I really don't know much of what he said, but was happy to hear when he said "no NICU").  They had suctioned her, examined her lungs and put her on some oxygen.  I found out later her 1 minute apgar was 8 and her 5 minute one was 9.   After a few more minutes she was brought over to me and I got to hold her for the first time.  It was in love at first sight as I held my long awaited for baby girl while being stitched up.  After a few more minutes, they took her down to the nursery to be cleaned up, weighed, foot printed and such.  P went with her.  By this time the doctor had finished up, given me a hug, and the nurse had offered to bring me a box lunch since I hadn't eaten since noon (other than a Popsicle or two throughout the afternoon).  Again, I was left alone in the room, but this time without the sound of my little girl's heartbeat.  I had just given birth, and I couldn't believe it.  

As a side note, I thought from the very beginning that she was a she.  Having lost my mom as a young child, and my grandma shortly after we found out I was pregnant, I just had a feeling that I would be mom to a little girl.  I think it's why I never felt pressured to finalize a boys name.  P even admitted he thought it was a girl too, though throughout the pregnancy he stated he thought it was a boy.  

Month 1 and Month 2

This is quite overdue as Little Miss is almost 3 months old!  She turned 1 month old on July 10 and 2 months old on August 10...this is just crazy.  Here are the updates I wrote to share with our family and friends:

Your two month birthday is tomorrow (which would also have been your Great Grandma E's 95th birthday -- who you were named after).  Here's what you have been up to:

• Have transitioned completely into size 1 diapers.
• Can no longer fit into newborn onesies, and are just about to grow out of your newborn pants. 
• Weigh 9 pounds 6 ounces and are 21.75 inches long (as of 10 days ago).  
• Will take a bottle like a champ, if needed, even from Mom.
• Don't like being in the car so much (and when you cry in the car, mom wants to cry too!)
• Are taking a good nap in the morning, one in the afternoon and sometimes one at night, as well as a few cat naps here and there.  You will not sleep for long (or at all) when we are out and about. You just look around.
• Have started sleeping longer stretches -- up to 6 hours at night.
• When you do wake at night, you nurse and go back to sleep which makes Mom really happy!
• Are lots of fun when you wake up -- full of stretches and smiles and coos.
• Like to have books read to you.
• Have ticklish feet.
• Love to listen to music with Dad.. One night recently when you were fussy, I found you and Dad watching YouTube videos together of old-time music, and you were do content.
• Are smiling (and it's not just gas!)
• Are much more alert.
• Are getting into a bedtime routine -- we go for a walk, then take a bath, then nurse and go to sleep.  
• Seem to be getting better control over your movements, have less startling, and have less quivering chin (thankfully).  
• Have started grabbing onto things -- mom and dad's shirt, toys on your car seat and activity mat.  You are also recognizing yourself in the mirror on your activity mat.
• Sometimes tease us with holding your pacifier in (and then move and pull it out)
• Hold your head up really well.
• Are changing everyday -- both in growth, and in personality.

This month you also got your first set of vaccinations (you screamed, but then just slept -- no other side effects), went to your first farmer's market downtown, went to your first birthday party (A's third birthday), met your cousin W who was visiting from Germany, had two more showers where you were spoiled with love and gifts, had hundreds more pictures taken of you, and so much more. We also survived Dad's first overnight work trip.   On a sad note, we said goodbye to our longtime furry friend, Mr. Foo, who had become fond of you during pregnancy when he laid on my belly and purred and you kicked back -- I think you two would have been great friends!

You are an amazing little girl  -- here's to month 3!

_________________________________

As of your one month birthday, you:

- have met lots of family and friends;

- have had lunch dates and dinner dates and play dates and shopping dates;

- are transitioning out of newborn clothes and into 0-3 month clothes;

- can fit into both newborn and size 1 diapers;

- weigh 8 pounds (and .03 ounces);

- nurse like a champ and when you are finished, rest your head on my chest and give me a little grin that melts my heart;

- have "crazy hands" that are very strong and like to get in the way because you don't quite have control of them yet;

- love your pacifier;

- get startled easily and throw your arms up when you do;

- draw lots of attention when we are out and about;

- sleep 3-4 hour stretches most nights;

- enjoy cuddling with daddy before he leaves for work;

- sometimes like tummy time and sometimes don't. You have a very strong neck and do a pretty good job of holding your head up;

- like to roll onto your side when we lay you down;

- poop with a passion;

- must be swaddled at night;

- have become much more alert within the last 10 days or so;

- slept through your first and second fireworks shows;

- are seeming to recognize more voices;

- have probably had 750+ pictures taken of you;

- love to stretch after sleeping;

- don't like the sun in your eyes;

- are full of expressions (and we wonder what you think about when you are sleeping);

- make lots of noises when you are sleeping;

- are simply amazing!

Can't wait to see what month two brings!

Little Miss' Arrival Story -- Part 1

Sorry -- this is a long story but I want to capture it for myself and for my baby girl...the short version is Little Miss arrived at 8:48 p.m. on June 10, 2013, 11 days before her due date, catching me and her dad completely off guard.  Both she and I are doing great, and she is absolutely amazing.  I truly want to eat her up (people always told me that I would want to eat my child, but I never understood that until she arrived)

Little Miss snuggled up in the cocoon her grandma knitted for her

Several people had suggested they thought I would go into labor early, even giving specific date ranges as their guess.  For three weeks, one of the doctors I work with occasionally had seen me a couple of times and each time said "You are still here?"  Every time I would tell the vice president I work with that I would see him at our next meeting 2 weeks out (the day before my due date), he said "no, I don't think you will."  Even my dentist predicted I would deliver 6 days early (based on absolutely no scientific evidence).  My goal was to make it through Father's Day (June 16) which would put me at 39 weeks, 2 days.

Little Miss had other plans.

On Friday, June 7, I had my 38 week OB appointment.  I left this appointment in tears because my doctor (whom I've seen for 7 years) basically forced me to have a cervix check after I had declined it (due to the anxiety it caused me).  At this point I had progressed from about 1 cm to 2 cm dilated.  This knowledge annoyed me (and made me anxious) because it could mean anything -- I could go into labor that day or not for a few weeks.  That night a good friend and I got pedicures (I got pink and blue in hopes it would last until delivery) and had dinner out, while P enjoyed a weekend with the boys.

On Saturday, I had an early morning and evening meeting at work and after the morning meeting ran some errands.  I felt more tired & achy than normal, but nothing a nap couldn't fix. And being 38 weeks pregnant, I was getting used to being achy.

Sunday morning we had brunch with my aunt at a local restaurant, and I may have overindulged in the buffet.   That evening, we met my parents and my dad's two sisters at a pizza place as they wanted to see my ever expanding belly.  Sunday night I tossed and turned in bed, wondering why I ate all that food at the buffet and the greasy pizza we had had that night.  I spent a lot of the night feeling like I had to poop (sorry TMI), and moving from the bed to the couch to the bathroom.  Oddly enough, our cat, who never cuddles with me at night, came and cuddled with me on the couch.

By Monday morning, June 10, I was exhausted, and was feeling some intermittent pains in my belly, but didn't think much of it because Father's Day hadn't passed yet (in denial much?), so there was no way I could be in labor.  I was moving slowly and took longer than usual to get ready for work and arrive at work.  When my boss walked by my office, she came in and said "I really expected I would get a phone call from you this morning saying you had gone to the hospital."  I remember thinking, that was random.

It was about that time I started realizing the "pains" I had been having all morning (and probably overnight) were coming at pretty regular intervals.  Even though I was in total denial that this might be it, I decided to download an app on my phone to monitor the length between and of the contractions.

At 9 a.m., I went into a meeting with my boss to discuss some issues/hot items that would need covered while I was gone.  My boss is a nurse, and when I told her what I was feeling, she told me I was in labor.  We continued to meet, and I timed the contractions throughout.  By the end of the hour long meeting, they were about 4 1/2 to 5 minutes apart.  My boss asked me if I wanted to go home, but I told her I thought I was safer here, across the street from the hospital, than at home, 20 minutes away. (note: I work at a hospital, but in HR; and not in the physical hospital, but across the street - about a block away).  She then told me I should get over to the hospital.  I went back to my office and tried to call P, but wasn't able to get a hold of him, so I sent him an email that said something along the lines of "I think I'm having contractions -- just wanted you to know we may have a baby today."  I went into another meeting with another nurse to talk about coverage while I am on leave, and she concurred that I was likely in labor.  But her advice was to not go to the hospital too early as it could be a long time still before anything happened.

I kept working and timing the contractions, trying to get as much done as I could since it appeared that I would be heading over to Labor and Delivery sooner than later.  (at one point my boss told me to stop sending emails)  Finally at noon, the contractions were coming 3 1/2 - 4 minutes apart and were getting more and more painful.  I called my OB's office, and told the receptionist that I thought I was in labor and would like to talk to a nurse.  She asked how far apart the contractions were, and said "honey, you don't need to talk to a nurse, they are going to tell you to get to the hospital."

I called P and asked him to come and get me to take me over to the hospital.  I told him not to hurry, but to finish up what he needed to and then come get me.  I was eerily calm (much like right before I walked down the aisle at our wedding).  At that point I decided since I wouldn't get to eat for who knows how long, I should eat something, so had the leftover pizza from the night before (this would come back to haunt me later on).  My dear friend, who I am fortunate enough to work with, came in and I also told her what was going on. We chatted for awhile and she told me to text her as soon as I knew anything.  She was having to go to an off-site location for the rest of the afternoon, and I could tell she was really concerned about me.  A little before 1, P called to tell me he was in the parking lot and by the time I gathered everything, he had come into the office.  At this point, only the three co-workers knew what was going on.  I didn't want anyone else to know just in case it was a false alarm...

I had grabbed the camera on my way out the door that morning (okay, maybe I wasn't in complete denial), as well as had a small bag packed and in my car for the last week or so, so I grabbed those and we drove over to the hospital.  P dropped me off and went to find parking, while I went up to the Labor & Delivery unit.  I had pre-registered so once I got up there, checking-in was quite simple and quick.  Strangely there was another woman checking in at the same time who had the same due date as mine.  The department director walked in about that time and was excited to see me there and told me she would check on me later (working at a hospital does have some advantages when it comes to being a patient).  As the admissions representative walked us to the room, we saw a couple walking the hallway, dragging an IV pole, and I thought "that will be us shortly - walking around, trying to get things to progress."  We were greeted by our first nurse (of 3), who handed me a gown and asked me to get changed and in bed so she could check me.  P helped me into my gown (the nurse stated she had never seen anyone try to tie it quite the way he had -- it took her 5 minutes to get it undone and redone correctly), and I stepped on the scale in the bathroom for what would be the last time as a pregnant lady.

I got into the bed, and the nurse told me who from my practice was on call that day.  Wouldn't you know it, it was the doctor who had forced me into the cervix check on the Friday before.  The nurse then proceeded to check me and tell me I was 6 cm dilated.

That's when things got really real!

She's Here!

Little Miss arrived 11 days early on June 10, 2013.  Story coming soon. We are head over heels in love!  

37 weeks

How far along?: 37 weeks 

Baby Development:  Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)

Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel.  Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

Had a doctor's appointment on on Friday,and everything is measuring perfectly for 37 weeks.  Baby's heartbeat is strong too and baby is still head down!    

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  I actually lost two pounds this week -- holding at 160.  

Gender:  We'll know soon! 

Movement: Baby is still head down (yay!) and legs and feet are still moving a lot -- especially into my ribs and lungs.  Some people at work said I look like I have dropped, but I don't think I have as there is still a butt and lots of leg movement in my rib cage.

Maternity Clothes: All the time.  Not looking forward to having to wear pants/shorts again that I will have to button and zip!

Sleep: Really tired most of the time, but sleep is still on and off good.  Getting up anywhere from 2-4 times during the night...  I did have a bit more of a burst of energy this weekend.

What I miss:  I still love being pregnant.  Yes, I have aches and pains and moving is slower than normal, but I'll take it.  

Cravings: Milk -- have to have it everyday.  Fruits of all kind, cinnamon sugar toast,  Hot & Spicy Cheeze-Its, ice cream, Mexican food.

Aversions:   Still Chinese food, bananas and peanut butter.  Salad is also not at all appealing.

Symptoms:  Warm/hot most of the time (poor P is cold in his own house), swelling in ankles/feet and hands, moving more slowly, tired, short of breath, sappy/moody, hips and inner thighs are sore and feel like they could give out on me when I stand up.  I have developed pregnancy induced carpal tunnel -- I woke up a couple of weeks ago feeling like I had developed arthritis in my hands overnight.    Luckily it will go away after delivery.

Best Moments this Week: 

Celebrating our 8th wedding anniversary this past week.  Getting to celebrate Auntie S's birthday with her and the rest of the family. Having dinner with Auntie C to celebrate the end of her school year.   High school friends having a surprise shower for me Friday night and just having a wonderful girls night out.  Getting to visit P's grandma in Fort Dodge Saturday and having some really fun conversation with residents of her commuity over lunch.  

Looking forward to:  

Today P and my dad did an awesome job of putting the shelves together for the nursery.  I'm looking forward to getting clothes and books organized in them.  

Getting a pedicure with a friend some time this week.  Since I can't get anywhere close to my toes these days, this will be very nice and will hopefully get me through delivery!  

I don't have any new bump pictures this week, but here are a couple of pictures of the great work P and my dad did on the book shelf and dresser, as well as of the rocking chair with my mother-in-law's beautiful sewing work.  

36 weeks

How far along?: 36 weeks 

Baby Development:  Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds  and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.

Had a doctor's appointment on on Friday, the 24th and am still measuring right on track.  She told me if my water breaks to go to the hospital...um yeah, hope that's not for awhile yet!    

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  I think I gained about 3 more pounds over the last two weeks.  I'm guessing a lot of that is fluid as my ankles/feet are swelling quite a bit.    

Gender: Everyone is having fun guessing!  There was a lot of pink being worn at my shower yesterday.  My friend Laura, who I had lunch with a couple of weeks ago, declared that "it's a girl".  She said she wasn't sure 2 weeks ago, but is now.  

Movement: Baby is still head down (yay!) and legs and feet are still moving a lot -- especially into my ribs and lungs.  I taught a class at work on Thursday and found myself out of breath just talking.

Maternity Clothes: Loving dresses and skirts right now -- much easier to put on than pants.  :-)

Sleep: Really tired most of the time, but sleep is still on and off good.  Getting up anywhere from 2-4 times during the night... 

What I miss:  I still love being pregnant.  Yes, I have aches and pains and moving is slower than normal, but I'll take it.  

Cravings: Milk -- have to have it everyday.  Fruits of all kind, cinnamon sugar toast, bread, burgers, sweets.

Aversions:   No Chinese food.   Bananas & peanut butter are still no-gos, though I can now eat them in things (like banana chip cake from Starbucks and scotcheroos).

Symptoms:  Warm/hot most of the time, swelling in ankles/feet and hands, moving more slowly, tired, short of breath, sappy/moody, hips are sore and feel like they could give out on me when I stand up.    

Best Moments this Week: 

So blessed having another shower this weekend where we were very spoiled! I also had 3 great young helpers to help me open everything.   Also enjoyed having everyone over to our house afterwards, even though the weather was less than desirable.  I may have snuck in an hour or so of snuggle time with our God son James who was here from Minnesota.   

Getting to spend time with family and friends throughout the week.

More organizing in the nursery and getting the rocking chair up there.  I forgot to mention last week that Auntie C gave us a box of treasures when we visited them last weekend -- full of clothes her girls wore, as well as some of P's baby clothes.

Getting a preview of some of the photos from our maternity shoot with P's cousin -- so happy with how they turned out!  

Looking forward to:  Celebrating our 8th anniversary this week.  

Getting the shelving built in the nursery so clothes and books can be put away.    

Reaching full term -- 37 weeks!    

35 Weeks

How far along?: 35 weeks  (wow -- only 2 more weeks till full-term!)

Baby Development:  Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long. Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

At my doctor's appointment on May 9, everything measured great, fundal height measured right at 34 weeks, heartbeat was strong and steady (she let me listen for a long time) and she estimated baby was 4.75 - 5 pounds which is crazy.  I weighed 4 pounds 11 ounces when I was born, so baby is already bigger than that most likely!  

Starting this week I will have weekly dr. appointments.

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  At the last appointment a week ago, I was up 4 pounds from the previous 2 weeks, but I believe a good portion of that is that I've started swelling in my feet/ankles and hands.  

Gender: Everyone is having fun guessing!  Today L (our niece), when I asked her for boy name ideas, replied "why do you need boy names? It's a girl."

Movement: Yes, and doctor confirmed baby is head down and butt and legs/feet are hanging out in my rib cage.  I'm really feeling the fact that I am short waisted and long legged!

Maternity Clothes: Loving dresses and skirts right now.  Bought a denim skirt at a consignment shop (for $3) and am pretty sure I will be living in it until delivery.  Unfortunately denim isn't in the dress code at work...  

Sleep: Really tired most of the time, but sleep is still on and off good.  Getting up anywhere from 2-4 times during the night...  I'm getting really tired of people telling me that not sleeping now is getting us prepared for when baby arrives!

What I miss:  Can't think of anything.  I love being pregnant!  I'm actually getting a bit sad thinking about it being over, but am so excited to meet this baby!

Cravings: Milk -- have to have it everyday, but it no longer HAS to be chocolate.  Also craving nectarines which fortunately are now back in the grocery stores.  Mexican food is high on the list too.  Baked Potatoes (boring, I know).  I had to make Snicker salad this week because I was craving it after someone else made it last week.

Aversions:   No Chinese food.   Bananas & peanut butter are still no-gos.

Symptoms:  Feeling short of breath as baby grows and stretches -- the other day I was just talking to a co-worker and was short of breath which was weird.  Tired all the time.  Swelling in feet and hands off and on.  Generally just moving more slowly and it is harder to get up and down from a seated position.  Some leg cramps at night.  Sore hips.  Feeling full much faster. Vivid dreams.    Warm.  

Best Moments these Weeks: 

Having P's cousin C take maternity photos last Saturday -- can't wait to see them as she is a very talented photographer and her parents have some fabulous scenery on their farm and house.  And there was no snow this time that made us have to postpone!  

Getting things organized in the nursery so all the diapers are in one place, all the socks are in one place and so on.  It's been fun unpacking the generous gifts we've gotten.  

Looking forward to: Another shower hosted by friends Memorial Day weekend.  

Getting bags packed and ready for whenever the time comes (hope it's not for several more weeks, but want to be prepared.   

31 & 32 Weeks

How far along?: 32 weeks  (how did that happen?)

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

At my doctor's appointment this week, everything measured great, baby's heart rate was high 150s/low 160s and the doctor told me to keep doing what I was doing.  When she was taking the baby's heart rate with the Doppler she said he/she was a happy baby!  

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  Was up 2 more pounds at my appointment on Thursday.  Better than the 5 pound weight gain the 2 weeks before that (oops!)

Gender: Everyone is having fun guessing! 

Movement: Yes, some days a ton, others not as much.  Have felt more "turning" sensations than jabs and kicks recently.  Feeling lots of pushing on my ribs and lungs

Maternity Clothes: Yes.  I tried to put on a button down shirt (non maternity) to wear Friday night and it looked ridiculous!   

Sleep: Really tired most of the time, but sleep is still on and off good.  Getting up anywhere from 1-4 times during the night...

What I miss:  Can't think of anything.  I love being pregnant!

Cravings: Still must have chocolate milk everday (this is the longest craving yet).  Also craving nectarines (which I can't find right now -- sad).  Mexican food is high on the list too.  Bread.  Pancakes. Hot and Spicy Cheez-Its.

Aversions:   No Chinese food.   Bananas & peanut butter are still no-gos.

Symptoms:  Feeling short of breath as baby grows and stretches.  Tired all the time.  Starting to have some light swelling in feet and hands.  Generally just moving more slowly and it is harder to get up and down from a seated position.  Some leg cramps at night.  Sore hips.  Feeling full much easier. Vivid dreams.   This isn't really a symptom, but my belly button officially popped overnight one night this week.  

Best Moments these Weeks: So many, I'm sure I am missing some of them...  

Getting a package in the mail from our 8 year-old niece which included a diaper and a onesie that says "I (heart) mom and dad."  So sweet.  She also had her mom send me a text of her holding a baby to show me how good she is with babies.  

Spending Auntie C's birthday with her -- eating yummy food and shopping.  

Painting the nursery with my dad and sister -- it's a beautiful pale yellow color and will look great with the gray accents that are coming!  So grateful for their help and fun to spend time together.

Four of my friends hosted the first baby shower for Baby G and boy were we so spoiled!  Thirteen people attended, and we are overwhelmed with the generosity and love shown to us and our babe.  Truly blessed!  Pictures to come...

Numerous fun nights out with P, Aunt B, Grammy  and others.  

Enjoying the nice weather!

Looking forward to: P's cousin C. is going to take maternity photos for us next weekend (she is a photographer in Nashville so I know they will be awesome!).

Working hard on prepping stuff at work for while I am on leave.  Looking forward to my time on leave with baby (and all who come to visit us during that time).    

29 Weeks

How far along?: 29 weeks 

Baby Development:  Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  Won't be weighed again until Friday at my next appointment (every two weeks now).  But I am definitely gaining.

Gender: Mia, our next door neighbor says I have a baby girl in  my belly. Of course she follows that with saying she has a baby girl in HER belly too.  

Movement: Each day is different.  Some days tons of movement and really sharp jabs and pokes.  Other days lots of rolling and turning and less jabbing. And some days much quieter.   

Maternity Clothes: Yes -- and looking forward to transitioning from sweaters and long sleeves to short sleeves for a little variety. Looking forward to wearing dresses more as it gets warmer.   I love watching and feeling my belly growing -- it truly amazes me there is a human being inside.  

Sleep:  Inconsistent.  Even rolling over seems to take a lot of effort!

What I miss:  Can't think of anything.  I love being pregnant!

Cravings: Still must have chocolate milk everday.  Also craving nectarines and sadly, donuts.  Mexican food is high on the list too (trip to Raul's Grandma Marvel???).  Bread.

Aversions:   No Chinese food.   Bananas & peanut butter are no-go.

Symptoms:  Feeling short of breath as baby grows and stretches.  Getting tired more quickly.  Leg cramps/restless legs at night.  Frequent bathroom trips.  Thirsty.  Getting full faster when eating.    

Best Moment this Week: Baby was in his/her first wedding this weekend.  My dear friend Carey and her now husband Chris got married and I was the matron of honor.  It was a beautiful day and we are so excited for them and their two sons.  Baby and I were very tired come Sunday though.  I actually slept from approximately 11:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. without even getting up to go to the bathroom.  

Getting the beautiful handmade invitation for my first baby shower later this month.  

P put the rocking chair together and I love it!  We both sat in it using Mr. Foo as the "pretend baby" and he did not enjoy it as much as we did.  

Looking forward to: Seeing P's parents this weekend (since we didn't get to see them over Easter afterall), starting the every two weeks appointments with the OB (more chances to hear baby's heartbeat) and getting through a busy week with work and volunteer commitments.  

28 weeks -- Entering the Third Trimester -- EEKS!

How far along?: 28 weeks 

Baby Development:By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  At today's OB appointment I was up to 147 (from 142 - 4 weeks ago).  

Gender: Always one of the first questions asked -- "do you know if it is a boy or a girl?"  Nope, but we should know in about 12 weeks, give or take...   I think my office is going to start a pool for guesses.  

Movement: Sometimes I think there is a ninja baby in my uterus.  Two nights this week, the baby was moving so much when I went to bed that I couldn't sleep.  I've also felt limbs pushing outward which is a very odd sensation.  

Maternity Clothes: Yes -- and looking forward to transitioning from sweaters and long sleeves to short sleeves for a little variety. Looking forward to wearing dresses more as it gets warmer.   I love watching and feeling my belly growing -- it truly amazes me there is a human being inside.  

Sleep:  Sleeping is better, but my hips get so sore from sleeping on my side.  And I'm having some leg cramping so when I wake up I feel like someone has been sitting on my calves all night. 

What I miss:  Can't think of anything.  I love being pregnant!

Cravings: Still must have chocolate milk everday.  Also craving nectarines (last week when I was buying some at Hy-Vee the teenaged boy checker looked at me and made a comment about how expensive they were -- I wanted to respond with "I don't care how much they cost just give them to me so I can start eating them.")

Aversions:  Still not a big fan of onions or garlic smell (I can eat both).  No Chinese food.  Poultry and I still have a hit or miss relationship. Bananas & peanut butter are no-go.

Symptoms:  Feeling short of breath as baby grows and stretches.  This week I have turned into an emotional mess.  Tired and feeling more achy in general.  

Best Moment this Week: Two weeks ago we were in Scottsdale and got to spend the week just relaxing, enjoying the sun and warmth, eating good food, hiking and hanging out.  It was perfect.  

Yesterday I was walking behind a couple of nursing students in the hallway at work.  One of them turned around, took a look at me and said "Oh my God, you are so adorable pregnant!"  I was having a rough day and that totally made me smile, especially coming  from a complete stranger.  

Thankful for each milestone hit, and that things are going so well.  I truly can't believe we are in the third trimester already.  

Looking forward to: I am the matron of honor for one of my best friend's weddings next Saturday.  Both her and my dress are hanging in baby's closet, just waiting for the big day.  So looking forward to celebrating with her and hubby-to-be!  

Spending the weekend with P's parents and catching up with them -- it's been too long since we've seen them!

Getting serious about making progress on the nursery.