So, I'm sitting here tonight at 40 weeks and 6 days...so basically I have the dreaded 41-week post since this stubborn little guy refuses to come out! However, I'm not using my normal format and just writing down some thoughts-- I'll have to take a bump picture tomorrow when I look better than now!
So as of last Tuesday, my doctor setup the induction for tomorrow 12/13 and I was 6th on the list to be called. However, I'm sure some of the 5 people ahead of me had their baby this last week, so I've probably moved up a little. They usually start phone calls around 5am and will just depend on how busy they are with people coming in for natural births. If I haven't heard anything by noon, then I can call and get a status update. So we sit around tomorrow and wait for THE CALL!
We are both really ready cause feel like our life has been on hold lately cause keep thinking the baby could be coming...so almost every day we have spent just sitting around the house...watching tv, playing some games, etc. I've been working from home and Dustin is technically on vacation, but basically was working from home. The one good thing with the baby coming late is that we had time to explore 3 daycares and think we have decided on one. As much as we are ready and excited, it's also just really hitting me and kinda makes me sad that the life Dustin and I have known will come to an end and take a whole new direction starting tomorrow...although I know it will all be for the better!
This last week has been brutally uncomfortable, but some of it could just be in my head since I know I was overdue. Sleeping has been really difficult and generally only sleep for about 2 hours at a time before I wake up and either my ribs or back is throbbing. The heating pad has become my new best friend! It's been tough cause it's so hard to get comfy-- if I sit too long, it's killer....if I stand or walk too much, it's killer...there is just no good position to be in! Dustin has been so good to me the last few days cause there's been a few crying meltdowns when I'm so uncomfortable and don't know what to do....usually a good backrub cures that then! I've already decided for the next baby that I will need to make sure I have a doctor that will induce a little earlier- like maybe 2 days after the due date or something. Waiting a week was just too much! And considering he was last measuring 9 days ahead of schedule, I'm paranoid now he's HUGE.
I must say that I'm not near as nervous as I thought I would be. I've been dreading the actual labor FOREVER, but I think I've been so uncomfortable that I really am just ready to get it over with. I would be way more nervous if I was doing some sort of public speaking thing tomorrow, so just goes to show how much I hate that I guess! I think I just know I gotta get through whatever pain...and hopefully in a few days I am feeling SO much better than right now :)
Just for fun, we made a few predictions so we'll see who gets the most right:
Time of phone call: Amy- 9am; Dustin- 6am
Baby's Weight: Amy- 7 lbs 9 oz; Dustin- 8 lbs 5 oz
Baby's Length: Amy- 21 inches; Dustin- 24 inches
Time Baby is Born: Amy 5:16pm 12/13; Dustin- 11pm 12/13
Hopefully next post is to share a POSITIVE birthing experience and the fact we have a HEALTHY baby!
12.12.2011
12.08.2011
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
We made a very easy casserole Sunday night, which has provided us with yummy leftovers for the week. I seriously love Plain Chicken's blog and used another one of her recipes for Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. This was better as leftovers than it was the original night because it thickened up a little more. It had a great flavor and we'll be making this again! (I'm thinking next time it could be good with some onion, mushroom, and celery thrown in here too)
Chicken & Dumpling Casserole
1 rotisserie chicken- shredded
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup butter
1 cup flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup skim milk
1 can Campbell's cream of chicken soup
Preheat oven to 400.
Melt butter in the microwave and pour into bottom of a 9x13 pan. Shred the chicken and spread it on top of the butter.
Whisk together the milk and the flour, baking powder and salt. Slowly pour over the chicken. Don't stir.
Whisk together chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Pour soup over the flour and milk mixture. Don't stir.
Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Chicken & Dumpling Casserole
1 rotisserie chicken- shredded
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup butter
1 cup flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup skim milk
1 can Campbell's cream of chicken soup
Preheat oven to 400.
Melt butter in the microwave and pour into bottom of a 9x13 pan. Shred the chicken and spread it on top of the butter.
Whisk together the milk and the flour, baking powder and salt. Slowly pour over the chicken. Don't stir.
Whisk together chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Pour soup over the flour and milk mixture. Don't stir.
Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
12.07.2011
Nursery Progress- Modern Yellow/Gray
While we've made a ton of progress with the Nursery, there is still a little left to get done.
As I posted earlier, my mom painted the nursery a dark gray color instead of the beige color that our entire house was painted. We also installed some room darkening disposable shades-- I highly recommend these as they are less than $10 at Lowe's, EASY to install, and the gray color conveniently matched the room. We'll eventually replace or do something different with the windows, but it works for a quick fix for now. Our main pieces of furniture were a white crib and dresser we had delivered from Amazon and then a gray rocker chair.
Let's talk the crib first. We didn't feel like we needed anything expensive and went with one of the cheapest options, but should work fine to get the job done! We went with the Graco Sarah for about $150 from Amazon. We also ordered our mattress from Amazon and is one that can be used as a more firm side for babies and then slightly softer side for toddlers eventually. Instead of purchasing a whole bedding ensemble, it is much cheaper to just get the pieces you actually need. We got a solid gray fitted mattress sheet. And then I bought fabric in the color scheme of our room for a DIY crib skirt. I had seen this on Young House Love blog which gave me the idea to just use the iron hem and velcro to simulate what a crib skirt would do. What I liked about the method I used is that I got to use 2 coordinating fabrics and as the mattress height gets lowered as the kid grows, then I can easily adjust the polka dot layer to be smaller. (I cheated for now and just did the front...will work on the sides later!) I found that Michael Miller fabrics were the ones that really caught my eye...unfortunately I didn't find some superstore in St. Louis that carried these that I could go look at them. But many sellers on etsy offer these in coordinating bundles and www.fabric.com was a good price and retailer to use.
For anyone wanting to use fabric for a DIY crib skirt, I recommend looking around the internet for ideas. I can share my steps at a high-level, but really differs based on your crib and the look you are going for. Step 1 was taking measurements for your areas on the front and sides of the crib for the pieces of fabric. Hopefully you ordered the right amount and the next step is cutting it down to size. For the polka dotted fabric, I was lucky and able to cut one long piece for the front. For the striped fabric, the longest length I could get a piece was 44 inches and I needed more than this, so I had to cut 2 pieces and sew them together. I was terrified I would screw this up, but it really turned out looking fine...even though it was sloppily done!
For the polka dotted fabric, I didn't need to do any nice looking hems after cutting because the edges are all hidden (either under the mattress or behind crib parts. For the striped fabric, I had to hem (or make pretty) the edge that is displayed near the floor. I am in love with this iron hem tape- which you can find at wal-mart or any craft store!
I just followed the directions on the tape. I used a measuring tape and folded over about an inch and ironed that.
Then I placed the tape in the 1-inch seam I just created.
I then ironed the seam with the tape inside pressing for 3-5 seconds each section.
We then used some velcro and just assembled to the crib where it made sense! End result:
Now, on to the dresser- this thing was a pain to assemble, but in the end was worth it cause we didn't want to spend a lot of money and just wanted something functional that looked decent. We ordered from Amazon, but usually Wal-Mart has slightly cheaper. On top we have the changing pad along with a basket full of diapers, wipes, and supplies. Above the dresser I bought white frames from Target and then just made my own pictures and printed. Etsy was a great source of inspiration for DIY nursery art, so definitely recommend looking around on there and then just doing yourself to save some money.
In the corner between the crib and dresser, we have a rocker chair. It was around $350, so definitely one of the more expensive items in our room, but we felt like it was worth spending something decent on....and this is still cheap compared to some of the rockers out there! We had to get it custom upholstered with this gray fabric, so took about 7 weeks for it to come in and we ordered from Philips Furniture here in St. Louis. I have some other Yellow/Gray Michael Miller fabrics, so will probably sew a pillow to sit in here too.
Above the chair are some floating white shelves we got at Lowe's. I really didn't have anything to put on these, so had to scramble a little! I bought some wooden letters at Michaels to spell his name and then spray painted them gray and yellow. This cost less than $10 to do since I already had the spray paint at home. I then put some baby books we've received up there with some metal bookends purchased from Amazon. I had started making some felt-stuffed owls for a mobile, but decided to nix that idea and use them with the bookends. I filled the bottom of the owls with popcorn kernels to weigh them down....then filled the top half with pillow stuffing.
One items we still need to install in the room and will be here Thursday this week is a large vinyl wall decal. I ordered this from etsy and is similar to this listing shown below, but I've changed the colors to make it basically white, gray, and yellow. It will be 5 feet by 7 feet and go on the right side of the crib...slightly extending some over the crib too.
That's about it for the nursery progress! Will share more as the room changes!
As I posted earlier, my mom painted the nursery a dark gray color instead of the beige color that our entire house was painted. We also installed some room darkening disposable shades-- I highly recommend these as they are less than $10 at Lowe's, EASY to install, and the gray color conveniently matched the room. We'll eventually replace or do something different with the windows, but it works for a quick fix for now. Our main pieces of furniture were a white crib and dresser we had delivered from Amazon and then a gray rocker chair.
Let's talk the crib first. We didn't feel like we needed anything expensive and went with one of the cheapest options, but should work fine to get the job done! We went with the Graco Sarah for about $150 from Amazon. We also ordered our mattress from Amazon and is one that can be used as a more firm side for babies and then slightly softer side for toddlers eventually. Instead of purchasing a whole bedding ensemble, it is much cheaper to just get the pieces you actually need. We got a solid gray fitted mattress sheet. And then I bought fabric in the color scheme of our room for a DIY crib skirt. I had seen this on Young House Love blog which gave me the idea to just use the iron hem and velcro to simulate what a crib skirt would do. What I liked about the method I used is that I got to use 2 coordinating fabrics and as the mattress height gets lowered as the kid grows, then I can easily adjust the polka dot layer to be smaller. (I cheated for now and just did the front...will work on the sides later!) I found that Michael Miller fabrics were the ones that really caught my eye...unfortunately I didn't find some superstore in St. Louis that carried these that I could go look at them. But many sellers on etsy offer these in coordinating bundles and www.fabric.com was a good price and retailer to use.
For anyone wanting to use fabric for a DIY crib skirt, I recommend looking around the internet for ideas. I can share my steps at a high-level, but really differs based on your crib and the look you are going for. Step 1 was taking measurements for your areas on the front and sides of the crib for the pieces of fabric. Hopefully you ordered the right amount and the next step is cutting it down to size. For the polka dotted fabric, I was lucky and able to cut one long piece for the front. For the striped fabric, the longest length I could get a piece was 44 inches and I needed more than this, so I had to cut 2 pieces and sew them together. I was terrified I would screw this up, but it really turned out looking fine...even though it was sloppily done!
For the polka dotted fabric, I didn't need to do any nice looking hems after cutting because the edges are all hidden (either under the mattress or behind crib parts. For the striped fabric, I had to hem (or make pretty) the edge that is displayed near the floor. I am in love with this iron hem tape- which you can find at wal-mart or any craft store!
I just followed the directions on the tape. I used a measuring tape and folded over about an inch and ironed that.
Then I placed the tape in the 1-inch seam I just created.
I then ironed the seam with the tape inside pressing for 3-5 seconds each section.
We then used some velcro and just assembled to the crib where it made sense! End result:
Now, on to the dresser- this thing was a pain to assemble, but in the end was worth it cause we didn't want to spend a lot of money and just wanted something functional that looked decent. We ordered from Amazon, but usually Wal-Mart has slightly cheaper. On top we have the changing pad along with a basket full of diapers, wipes, and supplies. Above the dresser I bought white frames from Target and then just made my own pictures and printed. Etsy was a great source of inspiration for DIY nursery art, so definitely recommend looking around on there and then just doing yourself to save some money.
In the corner between the crib and dresser, we have a rocker chair. It was around $350, so definitely one of the more expensive items in our room, but we felt like it was worth spending something decent on....and this is still cheap compared to some of the rockers out there! We had to get it custom upholstered with this gray fabric, so took about 7 weeks for it to come in and we ordered from Philips Furniture here in St. Louis. I have some other Yellow/Gray Michael Miller fabrics, so will probably sew a pillow to sit in here too.
Above the chair are some floating white shelves we got at Lowe's. I really didn't have anything to put on these, so had to scramble a little! I bought some wooden letters at Michaels to spell his name and then spray painted them gray and yellow. This cost less than $10 to do since I already had the spray paint at home. I then put some baby books we've received up there with some metal bookends purchased from Amazon. I had started making some felt-stuffed owls for a mobile, but decided to nix that idea and use them with the bookends. I filled the bottom of the owls with popcorn kernels to weigh them down....then filled the top half with pillow stuffing.
One items we still need to install in the room and will be here Thursday this week is a large vinyl wall decal. I ordered this from etsy and is similar to this listing shown below, but I've changed the colors to make it basically white, gray, and yellow. It will be 5 feet by 7 feet and go on the right side of the crib...slightly extending some over the crib too.
That's about it for the nursery progress! Will share more as the room changes!
12.06.2011
40 weeks
Okay, so I guess I shouldn't complain that I have a 40-week post...it should be expected....but here's to REALLY hoping there is no post titled 41 weeks! If I do make it 41 weeks (12/13), then I will be called in to be induced some time that day....so I guess at the VERY latest we know by 12/14 we'll be new parents!
How I'm feeling?
I'm okay at times, but just completely miserable and uncomfortable at others. I mainly get frustrated because doing anything for a lengthy amount of time gets uncomfortable. So I just can't plop on the couch and watch tv for 3 hours at night....after an hour my back is hurting or stomach/ribs ache that I have to get up. Or if we are out shopping/standing/walking for quite a while, then that just wears me down and can't take it. So it just gets annoying constantly having to change things up. And almost every night for the last week I wake up around 3:30 and is really hard to get good sleep after that point cause am so achy. I can only lay comfortably on my left side and is hard to just stay in that same position all night long. Then I got a completely new pain yesterday that left me nearly unable to walk...seriously thought I'd have to resort to a wheelchair until I delivered. Basically the baby's head is lodged so far down into my pelvic region so is stretching things out and makes it hard to walk after sitting for a period of time. The doctor said his head has turned a little from last week causing this discomfort. It is so much better today and just slightly there...so just hoping it doesn't come back like yesterday.
Luckily Dustin is on vacation starting yesterday throught the end of the year. Although he still has a lot of work to do, so is moreso just working from home until the baby comes. I am most likely going to be working from home until the baby comes just cause it's more comfortable at home and then the 2 of us are together in case I go into labor...especially since we only have 1 vehicle. Anyways, we wake up this morning to hear from co-workers and the news that the roads were terribly icy and the interstate was shutdown at Eureka...so we kept figuring this will be the time that I go into labor and we need to leave! Luckily that didn't happen...and we're just hoping for no more ice/snow for the next week now!
Dr. Appt: 12/6/2011
Weight: 157 lbs
Belly Circumference: 40 inches (keeps growing!)
Internal Exam: nearly 3cm dilated
BP, Fundal Height, Heartbeat: Didn't really pay attention to these stats or ask since was at the end- they were all normal
Appt Notes: As mentioned at the start of the post, she set up the induction date but really doesn't expect us to make it that far. 90% of babies are born by this point, so hopefully I fall into that category. I was more dilated so things have been moving along, but still don't have any recognizable contractions. When she did the internal exam, she also stripped the membranes around the uterus some which can trigger contractions to start...not a pleasant experience and am doubtful it's going to work. I'm convinced baby is just as terrified as me for this whole labor process so he's just procrastinating and wanting to stay put. Next time I see the doctor will be 6-7 weeks from now...such a nice change from these weekly appts!
Picture:
How I'm feeling?
I'm okay at times, but just completely miserable and uncomfortable at others. I mainly get frustrated because doing anything for a lengthy amount of time gets uncomfortable. So I just can't plop on the couch and watch tv for 3 hours at night....after an hour my back is hurting or stomach/ribs ache that I have to get up. Or if we are out shopping/standing/walking for quite a while, then that just wears me down and can't take it. So it just gets annoying constantly having to change things up. And almost every night for the last week I wake up around 3:30 and is really hard to get good sleep after that point cause am so achy. I can only lay comfortably on my left side and is hard to just stay in that same position all night long. Then I got a completely new pain yesterday that left me nearly unable to walk...seriously thought I'd have to resort to a wheelchair until I delivered. Basically the baby's head is lodged so far down into my pelvic region so is stretching things out and makes it hard to walk after sitting for a period of time. The doctor said his head has turned a little from last week causing this discomfort. It is so much better today and just slightly there...so just hoping it doesn't come back like yesterday.
Luckily Dustin is on vacation starting yesterday throught the end of the year. Although he still has a lot of work to do, so is moreso just working from home until the baby comes. I am most likely going to be working from home until the baby comes just cause it's more comfortable at home and then the 2 of us are together in case I go into labor...especially since we only have 1 vehicle. Anyways, we wake up this morning to hear from co-workers and the news that the roads were terribly icy and the interstate was shutdown at Eureka...so we kept figuring this will be the time that I go into labor and we need to leave! Luckily that didn't happen...and we're just hoping for no more ice/snow for the next week now!
Dr. Appt: 12/6/2011
Weight: 157 lbs
Belly Circumference: 40 inches (keeps growing!)
Internal Exam: nearly 3cm dilated
BP, Fundal Height, Heartbeat: Didn't really pay attention to these stats or ask since was at the end- they were all normal
Appt Notes: As mentioned at the start of the post, she set up the induction date but really doesn't expect us to make it that far. 90% of babies are born by this point, so hopefully I fall into that category. I was more dilated so things have been moving along, but still don't have any recognizable contractions. When she did the internal exam, she also stripped the membranes around the uterus some which can trigger contractions to start...not a pleasant experience and am doubtful it's going to work. I'm convinced baby is just as terrified as me for this whole labor process so he's just procrastinating and wanting to stay put. Next time I see the doctor will be 6-7 weeks from now...such a nice change from these weekly appts!
Picture:
12.02.2011
Easy Pecan Bar Recipe
I really love looking at Plain Chicken's blog and decided to try her Pecan Bars since I had almost all the ingredients at home. They got better as they sat, so I'd actually recommend making these a few days ahead of when you plan to serve them. I also added mini chocolate chips to half of the pan cause thought that sounded good....however, I didn't care for them near as much as the side with just nuts.
Pecan Pie Bars1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
3/4 cup chopped pecans (I also threw in some walnuts)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
2 Tbsp butter or margarine, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg, beaten
Heat oven to 350°F.
Unroll dough and press in bottom and 1/2 inch up sides of a 9x13-inch pan. Firmly press perforations to seal. (Tip: It is very important to make sure the perforations are all sealed otherwise the pecan goo will seap through and make it difficult to cut your bars and possibly create a soggy mess. Or better yet, see if your store has the sheet of crescent rolls without the perforations.) Bake 8 minutes.
Meanwhile, in medium bowl, mix remaining ingredients. Pour filling over partially baked crust.
Bake 18 to 22 minutes longer or until golden brown.
Cool completely, about 1 hour, and cut into bars.
Pecan Pie Bars1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
3/4 cup chopped pecans (I also threw in some walnuts)
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
2 Tbsp butter or margarine, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg, beaten
Heat oven to 350°F.
Unroll dough and press in bottom and 1/2 inch up sides of a 9x13-inch pan. Firmly press perforations to seal. (Tip: It is very important to make sure the perforations are all sealed otherwise the pecan goo will seap through and make it difficult to cut your bars and possibly create a soggy mess. Or better yet, see if your store has the sheet of crescent rolls without the perforations.) Bake 8 minutes.
Meanwhile, in medium bowl, mix remaining ingredients. Pour filling over partially baked crust.
Bake 18 to 22 minutes longer or until golden brown.
Cool completely, about 1 hour, and cut into bars.
12.01.2011
39 Weeks
How I'm feeling? It's really hit or miss, and at least there are some good times....but overall I just feel really huge and uncomfortable! I hate our family room furntiture cause there is just no comfy place to sit for a period of time. Also, I seriously have to walk at a turtle's pace and anything faster just ends up aggravating pain. The ribs are still sore, so use the medicine some...but other days they feel better. I was glad I felt good on Thanksgiving and got to enjoy all the good food....although despite efforts not to overeat, I still did. On Black Friday, the weather was GORGEOUS outside, so I met my sister and we shopped for about 4-5 hours going around to different stores. Neither of us had anything we were out to get, but moreso just browsing....and we didn't up buying any gifts, but just stuff for ourselves! We then spent time putting up the xmas tree and decorating for the holidays. It was my aunt and uncle's 25th wedding anniversary, so we met them briefly on Saturday. I then ran some errands again on Sunday, but it just completely exhausted me-- bought some king-size bedding, so will need to post pics of that room soon. Also just got some other things for the house we needed like shower curtain, rugs, etc. So I was really glad with how much we got accomplished during our holiday time off and hopefully can relax a lot until the baby arrives!
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/29 and 11/30
Weight: 158 lbs
BP: 110/70
Baby's Heartbeat: ?
Fundal Height: 35 cm
Belly Circumference: 37 inches
Internal Exam: 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced (no change)
Notes: So this week was interesting- we showed up on Tuesday to our normal appointment and got to our exam room slightly before the appt time of 12:15 and the nurse tells us the doctor will be there in just a few minutes. We wait....and wait.....and wait....and Dustin is getting so ancy cause he has a large meeting/presentation back at work at 1:30. Finally it is 12:50 and she still hasn't came in yet, so we decide we have to leave and reschedule otherwise he will not make it back in time. So I was bummed cause we had already spent so much time away from work and got nothing accomplished and just meant I was going to have to go back another day to do this all over! So they got me in the next day and I just went to it alone. Everything pretty much measured the same. She said my bag of waters was bulging and the baby's head is still right there and located really good. She said (again) most first-timers will go after their due date, so is better to expect that and then will just be a surprise if I go early. So will be interesting to see if I have a 40-week post or this will be it!
Picture (again, sorry for the no makeup and disheveled look...but it's effort enough to just put on normal clothes and get the pic taken!):
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/29 and 11/30
Weight: 158 lbs
BP: 110/70
Baby's Heartbeat: ?
Fundal Height: 35 cm
Belly Circumference: 37 inches
Internal Exam: 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced (no change)
Notes: So this week was interesting- we showed up on Tuesday to our normal appointment and got to our exam room slightly before the appt time of 12:15 and the nurse tells us the doctor will be there in just a few minutes. We wait....and wait.....and wait....and Dustin is getting so ancy cause he has a large meeting/presentation back at work at 1:30. Finally it is 12:50 and she still hasn't came in yet, so we decide we have to leave and reschedule otherwise he will not make it back in time. So I was bummed cause we had already spent so much time away from work and got nothing accomplished and just meant I was going to have to go back another day to do this all over! So they got me in the next day and I just went to it alone. Everything pretty much measured the same. She said my bag of waters was bulging and the baby's head is still right there and located really good. She said (again) most first-timers will go after their due date, so is better to expect that and then will just be a surprise if I go early. So will be interesting to see if I have a 40-week post or this will be it!
Picture (again, sorry for the no makeup and disheveled look...but it's effort enough to just put on normal clothes and get the pic taken!):
11.28.2011
It's starting to look like Gusmas!
This last weekend we spent a night digging out the xmas decs and putting up just a few things. We have an artificial tree and I was worried it was going to look dwarfed in our family room that is 2 stories tall....however, it looks just fine. Don't get me wrong, I could get a bigger one, but considering how expensive they are this will do just fine for a while! As usual, it was fun hanging the ornaments and reminiscing about so many memories with each of them and telling stories.
I went shopping on Black Friday with my main goal to get some things for the mantle. It still could use some work, but I'm hoping to get some cheap stuff after xmas that I can then add next year. The candles and vases were all items I had leftover from the wedding, so I just spent about $5 at Michaels to get the sticks/berries (which I didn't do a very good job of photographing). And then I bought fresh garland to lay up there...however, it just made a giant mess and I can't even smell the fresh pine/fir....so kind of a bummer.
I really wanted some coordinating stockings to hang and searched many stores before finding these simple ones at Target. They also had initial pins, so I picked up those for just $3/piece.
And here's the look all together-- I think it looks much better in person than how it photographed here:
That's really about it for decorations this year though, but at least feels festive to me while sitting in the family room. We really need to hit the sales after xmas to pick up some more stuff for next year!
I went shopping on Black Friday with my main goal to get some things for the mantle. It still could use some work, but I'm hoping to get some cheap stuff after xmas that I can then add next year. The candles and vases were all items I had leftover from the wedding, so I just spent about $5 at Michaels to get the sticks/berries (which I didn't do a very good job of photographing). And then I bought fresh garland to lay up there...however, it just made a giant mess and I can't even smell the fresh pine/fir....so kind of a bummer.
I really wanted some coordinating stockings to hang and searched many stores before finding these simple ones at Target. They also had initial pins, so I picked up those for just $3/piece.
And here's the look all together-- I think it looks much better in person than how it photographed here:
That's really about it for decorations this year though, but at least feels festive to me while sitting in the family room. We really need to hit the sales after xmas to pick up some more stuff for next year!
11.26.2011
38 weeks and 1 last shower!
I will now finally be caught up on my weekly posts! This should have been posted on Tuesday, so just a few days late...
What's new? Mainly the only thing going on is Dustin listening to me complain nonstop about feeling uncomfortable. The rib pain is just horrible at times on my right side....then to top it off, my left ribs periodically feel awful due to self-diagnosed Texidor's Twinge which I've had for years. I don't think our family room furniture is very comfortable and supportive, so I just can't sit/lay down and watch tv for long periods. At least it has forced me to stay a little active around the house though! I tried taking 2 of my pills and it still wasn't like any miracle drug...it maybe made the pain a little better, but that's it.
I've had 2 days of heartburn, which I've never had in my life before...so kinda caught me offguard that it creeped up right at the end of the pregnancy cause this is such a common symptom for people. I'm really not sure what caused it but think it could have been 1 buffalo wing I ate, so think I'll just avoid stuff like that for the next few weeks.
We got the last piece for the dresser, so now that is done! We then hung up the prints I had made above it- so not that little area actually looks complete.
This week we did more with the house-- I bought a ton more disposable shades and put in the windows downstairs and some upstairs. We got some of our bedroom furniture delivered....so FINALLY sleeping in a bed vs. just a mattress on the floor! Dustin installed a garage keypad and hooked up the waterline to the refridgerator. We bought a xmas wreath for the front door, which will probably be our only holiday contribution to the outside of the house this year. And I baked a ton of monster cookies I made from scratch...froze a chunk of them to have later too.
Dustin's work group was also super generous and threw him a shower-- he was so surprised and caught off-guard! We got a really nice-sized gift card to Target, so that will be awesome to spend down the road when we need baby stuff.
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/21 (had to switch to a Monday)
Weight: 157 lbs (YIKES)
BP: 110/62
Baby's Heartbeat: 140
Internal Exam: 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced
Notes: Today's exam was routine and quick- Dustin was luckily able to join me. She again was pleased with the progress I'm making and said I will appreciate this later because my body has already done some of the prep work to dilate now. She also explained that I could just stall and stay at 2cm for weeks, but they will definitely set an appt. to induce at 41 weeks if I haven't gone into labor by then....but chances are extremely good that she expects me to go into labor naturally before that. Which is good cause 3 more weeks seems like too much longer to deal with this baby inside me!!!
Picture:
What's new? Mainly the only thing going on is Dustin listening to me complain nonstop about feeling uncomfortable. The rib pain is just horrible at times on my right side....then to top it off, my left ribs periodically feel awful due to self-diagnosed Texidor's Twinge which I've had for years. I don't think our family room furniture is very comfortable and supportive, so I just can't sit/lay down and watch tv for long periods. At least it has forced me to stay a little active around the house though! I tried taking 2 of my pills and it still wasn't like any miracle drug...it maybe made the pain a little better, but that's it.
I've had 2 days of heartburn, which I've never had in my life before...so kinda caught me offguard that it creeped up right at the end of the pregnancy cause this is such a common symptom for people. I'm really not sure what caused it but think it could have been 1 buffalo wing I ate, so think I'll just avoid stuff like that for the next few weeks.
We got the last piece for the dresser, so now that is done! We then hung up the prints I had made above it- so not that little area actually looks complete.
This week we did more with the house-- I bought a ton more disposable shades and put in the windows downstairs and some upstairs. We got some of our bedroom furniture delivered....so FINALLY sleeping in a bed vs. just a mattress on the floor! Dustin installed a garage keypad and hooked up the waterline to the refridgerator. We bought a xmas wreath for the front door, which will probably be our only holiday contribution to the outside of the house this year. And I baked a ton of monster cookies I made from scratch...froze a chunk of them to have later too.
Dustin's work group was also super generous and threw him a shower-- he was so surprised and caught off-guard! We got a really nice-sized gift card to Target, so that will be awesome to spend down the road when we need baby stuff.
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/21 (had to switch to a Monday)
Weight: 157 lbs (YIKES)
BP: 110/62
Baby's Heartbeat: 140
Internal Exam: 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced
Notes: Today's exam was routine and quick- Dustin was luckily able to join me. She again was pleased with the progress I'm making and said I will appreciate this later because my body has already done some of the prep work to dilate now. She also explained that I could just stall and stay at 2cm for weeks, but they will definitely set an appt. to induce at 41 weeks if I haven't gone into labor by then....but chances are extremely good that she expects me to go into labor naturally before that. Which is good cause 3 more weeks seems like too much longer to deal with this baby inside me!!!
Picture:
11.25.2011
37 weeks
What's new? Well our good friends that were due only 5 days before me had their baby this last weekend....so that has made us kick into gear a little more! My main issue is still that my ribs are killing me, so just makes it really hard to relax and get comfortable. A hot shower is really the only thing that feels great-- consequently I'm going to hate to see our water bill this month! I'm also just moving a lot slower, which I didn't think was possible...but it's just hard to walk at a decent speed and am feeling more pressure down in my pelvic area.
We got the car seat installed and inspected by the fire department, so that is set now! We didn't think our car had a latch in the right spot, so poor Dustin spent forever using a seatbelt to try and install the seat base. Ultimately we just gave up cause the seat wasn't getting tight enough with the seatbelt...so luckily the fire dept showed us the latches and in less than a minute put the base in all snug and secure!
We also got our hospital bags packed as much as possible at this point. Although I've gone through so many lists and recommendations from people, but still doesn't seem like there is much we are bringing. I've stashed some towels in the car and at work in case my water would break at either of those places since I spend a lot of time there....but let's hope not!
We worked some more in the nursery. I made some cute prints/signs to frame for the wall above the dresser/changing area. We worked some more on the dresser, but unfortunately still waiting for 1 replacement piece to arrive-- due to Dustin scratching the front of one of the drawers.
One big item this week was that we had been sleeping on a mattress on the floor and was getting very frustrating for me cause was hard to get up/down from...and if we suddenly had the baby, wasn't really ideal for me to be camped out almost on the floor. So we decided we just have to go buy a bedroom set and new mattress, cause wanted to upgrade to King bed. So after many stores, we finally just picked something and got it all ordered. We were able to get the mattress, bed, and dresser in the next week...but the mirror and nightstands will take 4-6 weeks. Since all I really cared about was the bed/mattress, then that was good with me!
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/15/11
Weight: 154 lbs (no change- up 23 from start)
Blood Pressure:
Fundal Height: 34.5 cm
Internal Exam: 1.5 cm dilated; 70% effaced
Appointment: Dustin was unable to go to the appt with me, so we were both bummed about that. My doctor said that everything looked good and was pleased with the rate at which I was moving along. I brought up how I still have a lot of pain on my right side with my ribs and it's just brutal at times. The prescription from last week didn't seem to do anything. She said I could try taking 2 pills instead of just 1 and see if that helps, but only do in the evenings or when have no plans cause will probably knock me out. She also said it could be several things that are causing the pain, but if it is bruised then this pain will probably continue for a couple months after I deliver....not what I wanted to hear!
Picture: (feeling oh so large....ugh)
We got the car seat installed and inspected by the fire department, so that is set now! We didn't think our car had a latch in the right spot, so poor Dustin spent forever using a seatbelt to try and install the seat base. Ultimately we just gave up cause the seat wasn't getting tight enough with the seatbelt...so luckily the fire dept showed us the latches and in less than a minute put the base in all snug and secure!
We also got our hospital bags packed as much as possible at this point. Although I've gone through so many lists and recommendations from people, but still doesn't seem like there is much we are bringing. I've stashed some towels in the car and at work in case my water would break at either of those places since I spend a lot of time there....but let's hope not!
We worked some more in the nursery. I made some cute prints/signs to frame for the wall above the dresser/changing area. We worked some more on the dresser, but unfortunately still waiting for 1 replacement piece to arrive-- due to Dustin scratching the front of one of the drawers.
One big item this week was that we had been sleeping on a mattress on the floor and was getting very frustrating for me cause was hard to get up/down from...and if we suddenly had the baby, wasn't really ideal for me to be camped out almost on the floor. So we decided we just have to go buy a bedroom set and new mattress, cause wanted to upgrade to King bed. So after many stores, we finally just picked something and got it all ordered. We were able to get the mattress, bed, and dresser in the next week...but the mirror and nightstands will take 4-6 weeks. Since all I really cared about was the bed/mattress, then that was good with me!
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/15/11
Weight: 154 lbs (no change- up 23 from start)
Blood Pressure:
Fundal Height: 34.5 cm
Internal Exam: 1.5 cm dilated; 70% effaced
Appointment: Dustin was unable to go to the appt with me, so we were both bummed about that. My doctor said that everything looked good and was pleased with the rate at which I was moving along. I brought up how I still have a lot of pain on my right side with my ribs and it's just brutal at times. The prescription from last week didn't seem to do anything. She said I could try taking 2 pills instead of just 1 and see if that helps, but only do in the evenings or when have no plans cause will probably knock me out. She also said it could be several things that are causing the pain, but if it is bruised then this pain will probably continue for a couple months after I deliver....not what I wanted to hear!
Picture: (feeling oh so large....ugh)
11.22.2011
Just Because...
Dustin just grabbed the camera and took this pic of our nephew and thought it turned out so cute! Since I don't have time for lengthy posts these days, at least this is something to share! He is nearing 2.5 and at that fun age where almost everything out of their mouth is hilarious.
11.21.2011
36 Weeks and another Shower!
About 2 weeks behind in my postings...so here are brief Week 36 updates, when I am actually at 38 weeks!
What's new this week? It is really nice being in the house and having the move behind us. However, there is just so much to deal with on the house that it is keeping us swamped! Still just feeling somewhat uncomfortable at times and the rib pain is the major nuisance.
Major accomplishment this week was my mom painted the baby's room- we went with what we thought was a medium gray color, but it ended up a little darker than planned...but I LOVE it! It looks really great with the white trim in the room and white furniture. Here you can see the transformation in progress:
I had some co-workers in town this week from out of state, so the week was also busy with trying to spend some time with them in the evenings since we only see them a couple times each year. And my work group threw me the most awesome shower that week on Wednesday at lunch as a surprise! It was absolutely amazing at the number of people that showed up for it cause hardly anyone comes into the office anymore and is so dead most days. Then there were a number of people who have retired or work in other groups and many of them were there. It was just very nice and we were so appreciative of seeing everyone and the nice gifts. So many of them also are very talented and made gifts for the baby which were just amazing! Here's a pic of my sister and I sorting through clothes and getting the tags off for washing:
Baby Name: I know I gave a teaser a while ago of the name we picked out with the letters scrambled, but I don't think I ever revealed it.....so here goes! We decided on the name Lachlan, which is pronounced like lock-lin. The more I say it and get used to it, the more I like it. I had found it in a baby book and brought it to Dustin with a list of like 20 others and Dustin just immediately loved it and settled on it. I really liked it, but was still a little unsure...but now I'm glad we've settled on it.
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/8/11
Weight: 154 lbs (up 13 from start)
Internal: 1 cm dilated
Notes: I was glad to get back to seeing my regular doctor. She told me to stop taking the medication the other doctor had prescribed because it wasn't doing anything for the rib pain- and the doctor had prescribed thinking maybe I was having contractions, but I'm not. She said the other doctor was just being precautious.
Picture:
What's new this week? It is really nice being in the house and having the move behind us. However, there is just so much to deal with on the house that it is keeping us swamped! Still just feeling somewhat uncomfortable at times and the rib pain is the major nuisance.
Major accomplishment this week was my mom painted the baby's room- we went with what we thought was a medium gray color, but it ended up a little darker than planned...but I LOVE it! It looks really great with the white trim in the room and white furniture. Here you can see the transformation in progress:
I had some co-workers in town this week from out of state, so the week was also busy with trying to spend some time with them in the evenings since we only see them a couple times each year. And my work group threw me the most awesome shower that week on Wednesday at lunch as a surprise! It was absolutely amazing at the number of people that showed up for it cause hardly anyone comes into the office anymore and is so dead most days. Then there were a number of people who have retired or work in other groups and many of them were there. It was just very nice and we were so appreciative of seeing everyone and the nice gifts. So many of them also are very talented and made gifts for the baby which were just amazing! Here's a pic of my sister and I sorting through clothes and getting the tags off for washing:
Baby Name: I know I gave a teaser a while ago of the name we picked out with the letters scrambled, but I don't think I ever revealed it.....so here goes! We decided on the name Lachlan, which is pronounced like lock-lin. The more I say it and get used to it, the more I like it. I had found it in a baby book and brought it to Dustin with a list of like 20 others and Dustin just immediately loved it and settled on it. I really liked it, but was still a little unsure...but now I'm glad we've settled on it.
Dr. Appt
Date: 11/8/11
Weight: 154 lbs (up 13 from start)
Internal: 1 cm dilated
Notes: I was glad to get back to seeing my regular doctor. She told me to stop taking the medication the other doctor had prescribed because it wasn't doing anything for the rib pain- and the doctor had prescribed thinking maybe I was having contractions, but I'm not. She said the other doctor was just being precautious.
Picture:
11.09.2011
35 Weeks & Shower
Waaaaaaay behind in posting, but will hopefully get caught up in the next few days. I had delayed posting this cause had wanted to add more pictures, but my small camera is temporarily lost, so no more pics to add from the other events! I should have posted this on 11/1 at 35 weeks.
How I'm feeling? This week was just crazy busy, so I almost just didn't have time to feel lousy! Overall I felt fairly good and think your body just can kick into gear when it needs to. So here is how my busy 35th week went, which is way more exciting than me whining about pregnancy for this weekly post....
We spent Wednesday night packing up at the loft since moving day was fast approaching! Thursday we were off work to do the final home inspection and then close on the house!! Closing was a little stressful, but it all came through okay in the end. That night Dustin had bowling league, so we were up at the alley watching the Cards win game 6 of the world series. Only the game was the most stressful game ever cause was do or die for the Cards and the score kept going back and forth. I finally caved and went home to watch the rest in bed cause it went to extra innings....only I fell asleep at a commercial break and the next batter was David Freese who hit a homer to win the game! I woke up and the game was over, but I got to see the replay. My mom also got into town this day and luckily was able to stay for the next 10 days to help out, which I seriously don't know how I would have got through all we did without her. It was a really busy time for Dustin at work. Friday my mom and sister both came over and we spent the day packing up the loft, then we headed over to our friends annual halloween party and to watch the Cards win game 7! We then went out on the streets and to Busch Stadium to celebrate....it was the longest I'd been out in a while....I think was about 1am when we made it home. Then Saturday was moving day and exhausting, even though I didn't do much. Then Sunday was a family shower at the London Tea Room, which was a great time and actually was a nice end to a busy few days! Monday I was off work and my mom and sister came over to help unpack some more and we started preparing the nursery. Missy (sister) did a great job of assembling the crib! Then it was time to answer the door for all the trick-or-treaters and meet some of our neighbors. Then I crashed on the bed and put this hectic week behind me!
Dr. Appt. Date: 10/31/2011
Weight: 153 (up 22 lbs from start)
Dr. Appt Description: I had a follow-up appt. with the other physician. She said I was still at 1 cm, so that was good news and agreed everything looked great from the ultrasound. So was a fast and good appointment!
Shower Pictures:
So many cute things and much needed clothing!
Duck cupcakes for desert:
Name settings for the table made by my aunt all with different cute embellishments:
And my sister has rocked with putting together cute favors for both showers! There were little packets of tea wrapped up in the felt that looked like a diaper. It was perfect since we had the shower at a tea room!
How I'm feeling? This week was just crazy busy, so I almost just didn't have time to feel lousy! Overall I felt fairly good and think your body just can kick into gear when it needs to. So here is how my busy 35th week went, which is way more exciting than me whining about pregnancy for this weekly post....
We spent Wednesday night packing up at the loft since moving day was fast approaching! Thursday we were off work to do the final home inspection and then close on the house!! Closing was a little stressful, but it all came through okay in the end. That night Dustin had bowling league, so we were up at the alley watching the Cards win game 6 of the world series. Only the game was the most stressful game ever cause was do or die for the Cards and the score kept going back and forth. I finally caved and went home to watch the rest in bed cause it went to extra innings....only I fell asleep at a commercial break and the next batter was David Freese who hit a homer to win the game! I woke up and the game was over, but I got to see the replay. My mom also got into town this day and luckily was able to stay for the next 10 days to help out, which I seriously don't know how I would have got through all we did without her. It was a really busy time for Dustin at work. Friday my mom and sister both came over and we spent the day packing up the loft, then we headed over to our friends annual halloween party and to watch the Cards win game 7! We then went out on the streets and to Busch Stadium to celebrate....it was the longest I'd been out in a while....I think was about 1am when we made it home. Then Saturday was moving day and exhausting, even though I didn't do much. Then Sunday was a family shower at the London Tea Room, which was a great time and actually was a nice end to a busy few days! Monday I was off work and my mom and sister came over to help unpack some more and we started preparing the nursery. Missy (sister) did a great job of assembling the crib! Then it was time to answer the door for all the trick-or-treaters and meet some of our neighbors. Then I crashed on the bed and put this hectic week behind me!
Dr. Appt. Date: 10/31/2011
Weight: 153 (up 22 lbs from start)
Dr. Appt Description: I had a follow-up appt. with the other physician. She said I was still at 1 cm, so that was good news and agreed everything looked great from the ultrasound. So was a fast and good appointment!
Shower Pictures:
So many cute things and much needed clothing!
Duck cupcakes for desert:
Name settings for the table made by my aunt all with different cute embellishments:
And my sister has rocked with putting together cute favors for both showers! There were little packets of tea wrapped up in the felt that looked like a diaper. It was perfect since we had the shower at a tea room!
10.27.2011
34 Weeks
How I'm feeling? Well this week has not been the best, but hanging in there. The nausea is getting better-- I've cut down the anti-anxiety meds to only taking every other day and have noticed a big difference and have my appetite back. Prior to doing that, I was eating a lot of Jell-o and Sprite cause nothing sounded appealing. You'll read more below, but I've had a lot of discomfort all across my ribs-- right under my chest. I also am starting to get some back pain and in general it's just hard to find comfortable positions for me to sit in. Dustin owes me big time cause we drove down to Nashville to meet up with his college friends over the weekend. I was somewhat dreading the trip cause just wasn't sure how I would feel. Overall I did okay though and it was better than I had imagined. On the ride down I was very uncomfortable in the car and somewhat going crazy. However, on the ride home we made it the whole way without stopping and I was pretty much fine.
Dr. Appt. Date: 10/25/2011
Weight: 151 (up 20 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 98/64
Baby's Heartbeat: Forgot to write it down, but at the u/s it was 123 (this was quite a bit lower than previously, but she said was still fine)
Fundal Height: 30 cm (no change)
Belly Circumference: 37 in (no change)
Dr. Appt Description: My usual doctor was not in the office, so I saw another doctor in the practice. I realized how much I enjoy seeing the same doctor every week-- and at the start of the pregnancy my doctor also said she thinks it is important to have the same person continually see you because they become familiar with you and have better ability to recognize what is normal or not. So anyways, this doctor calculated my fundal height at 30cm, which was the same as 2 weeks ago-- however, I've read in my books that this measurement varies a lot from doctor to doctor with how they measure, so it's hard to tell if that truly stayed the same or not. She was concerned because it was smaller than the acceptable range, so I explained that basically I've measured behind the whole time, but we did an ultrasound last month and everything was fine. However, she had a good point that it wouldn't hurt to do another u/s in case something has changed in the last month...so we were to come back in 2 days for the u/s. We also had some discussion on just how uncomfortable I've been lately, which I just figured most of what I was feeling is normal. My most painful area is basically in my ribs and it's not the baby kicking me, but almost a constant pain that feels like it has been badly bruised. I'd imagine if you were in a car accident and the seat belt restrained you, you would feel sore and some bruising-- which is what I can best describe this as. She also wanted to check my cervix and discovered that it was 1 cm. dilated. So she ended up prescribing some pills that I take 3 times a day now that seem like the goal is to help with the rib pain and hopefully less contractions too. I go back next Monday for her to see me at 35 weeks....then it will be back to my normal doctor for weekly appointments starting at 36 weeks.
Ultrasound Appointment: Since I'm late writing this, I can also document how the u/s went.....which was.....REALLY WELL! The baby should have been at 34 weeks and 1-2 days, but she said he is measuring at 35 weeks and 3 days! The estimated weight is 5 lbs 12 oz. So the technician thought everything looked great and he is definitely bigger than expected based on looking at me. Also, he was no longer breeched, he was head down. In fact, his head was so far down in my pelvis that she couldn't get real good measurements on that. So will be interesting to see when I actually deliver, but both we left the appointment realizing we really do need to be prepared ahead of time because it seems like there is decent chance he could come before 12/6....and previously I just always had feelings that I would go late, so never felt a lot of urgency to get things done too much earlier! We also could get a decent look at his face, but it still was a little creepy looking to me....haha! I hope it was just the view, but he looked to have a pig nose.....so hopefully his nose comes out looking a little more normal....and if not, then let's just hope he never sees this blog cause hey, we all love pig noses....right?!
Picture:
The laptop is not recognizing my camera card, so pic will have to be uploaded later :(
Dr. Appt. Date: 10/25/2011
Weight: 151 (up 20 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 98/64
Baby's Heartbeat: Forgot to write it down, but at the u/s it was 123 (this was quite a bit lower than previously, but she said was still fine)
Fundal Height: 30 cm (no change)
Belly Circumference: 37 in (no change)
Dr. Appt Description: My usual doctor was not in the office, so I saw another doctor in the practice. I realized how much I enjoy seeing the same doctor every week-- and at the start of the pregnancy my doctor also said she thinks it is important to have the same person continually see you because they become familiar with you and have better ability to recognize what is normal or not. So anyways, this doctor calculated my fundal height at 30cm, which was the same as 2 weeks ago-- however, I've read in my books that this measurement varies a lot from doctor to doctor with how they measure, so it's hard to tell if that truly stayed the same or not. She was concerned because it was smaller than the acceptable range, so I explained that basically I've measured behind the whole time, but we did an ultrasound last month and everything was fine. However, she had a good point that it wouldn't hurt to do another u/s in case something has changed in the last month...so we were to come back in 2 days for the u/s. We also had some discussion on just how uncomfortable I've been lately, which I just figured most of what I was feeling is normal. My most painful area is basically in my ribs and it's not the baby kicking me, but almost a constant pain that feels like it has been badly bruised. I'd imagine if you were in a car accident and the seat belt restrained you, you would feel sore and some bruising-- which is what I can best describe this as. She also wanted to check my cervix and discovered that it was 1 cm. dilated. So she ended up prescribing some pills that I take 3 times a day now that seem like the goal is to help with the rib pain and hopefully less contractions too. I go back next Monday for her to see me at 35 weeks....then it will be back to my normal doctor for weekly appointments starting at 36 weeks.
Ultrasound Appointment: Since I'm late writing this, I can also document how the u/s went.....which was.....REALLY WELL! The baby should have been at 34 weeks and 1-2 days, but she said he is measuring at 35 weeks and 3 days! The estimated weight is 5 lbs 12 oz. So the technician thought everything looked great and he is definitely bigger than expected based on looking at me. Also, he was no longer breeched, he was head down. In fact, his head was so far down in my pelvis that she couldn't get real good measurements on that. So will be interesting to see when I actually deliver, but both we left the appointment realizing we really do need to be prepared ahead of time because it seems like there is decent chance he could come before 12/6....and previously I just always had feelings that I would go late, so never felt a lot of urgency to get things done too much earlier! We also could get a decent look at his face, but it still was a little creepy looking to me....haha! I hope it was just the view, but he looked to have a pig nose.....so hopefully his nose comes out looking a little more normal....and if not, then let's just hope he never sees this blog cause hey, we all love pig noses....right?!
Picture:
The laptop is not recognizing my camera card, so pic will have to be uploaded later :(
10.18.2011
33 Weeks & Shower!
These next few weeks are going to be hectic since we are moving, but my goal is to do a weekly update on pregnancy items until the baby arrives....so we'll see if that happens! I'll post updated stats and profile pic next week after my 34-week appointment.
How I'm feeling? Still just generally not feeling and well and uncomfortable a lot. My biggest issue is just nausea and only limited foods sound good to attempt eating. I really thought this was due to new medication I started, but now am thinking it is just how my body is responding this trimester. I researched on the internet today and found that nausea is so commonly associated with the 1st trimester, but very often occurs in the 3rd also. I also continue to be super tired, but is just because I'm not sleeping well at night....and then last weekend woke up both mornings at like 6:30 instead of being able to sleep in!
Cravings? For the most part, I wouldn't say I ever had any strong cravings for this whole pregnancy. Lately though I have just been really wanting fruits and juices-- something about those just taste cold and refreshing and light!
Baby's name? Well, we did finally decide to just stick with the one we had liked and have started telling people. I'll give you a hint this week-- here are the letters (scrambled....hee, hee):
N A H A C L L
And the biggest event this last week was my first shower!!!!! My sister threw it for me and did an awesome job!! This one was just for some friends and was held at Lucas Park Grille, which is a restaurant across the street from where I live. We did it on Sunday and was a brunch. The atmosphere was perfect- we did not have a private room, but the place was not crowded and our area was very segregated. We had a little area with comfy chairs by a fireplace where we could gather after eating to open gifts and worked out well. Here are the group of girls that were there (and sadly a few close friends had to miss it cause live too far away now or weren't feeling well that live in town, so I missed their company!):
We started off the fun by playing a few games while we waited for the food. The first game was a sheet of 20 excerpts of song lyrics that had "baby" in the title...then we had to name the song. Most of us were pretty bad, so luckily she then passed around a cheatsheet to help which told us all of the artists. My friend Katie won that game- she is a dance teacher, so she is probably listens to music a little more than the rest of us or pays better attention to lyrics!
The next game was a sheet that had baby pictures of us on there and you had to guess who was who. Along with that, also had to match the person's name to the correct meaning of their name. I killed this game, but of course couldn't take the prize (complete unfair advantage that I knew my info plus my sister and sister-in-law)...so I believe Lydia and Jill won that one.
We ate and then opened gifts and got the best stuff ever! Nearly everything was from my registry or stuff that we needed and I really liked, so can't imagine that any of this will get returned or not used! Here's just a few pics:
Lastly, here were the cutest little favors ever-- candy bars in this adorable wrapper with a baby sock for the hat...awwwwwwwwwwww:
How I'm feeling? Still just generally not feeling and well and uncomfortable a lot. My biggest issue is just nausea and only limited foods sound good to attempt eating. I really thought this was due to new medication I started, but now am thinking it is just how my body is responding this trimester. I researched on the internet today and found that nausea is so commonly associated with the 1st trimester, but very often occurs in the 3rd also. I also continue to be super tired, but is just because I'm not sleeping well at night....and then last weekend woke up both mornings at like 6:30 instead of being able to sleep in!
Cravings? For the most part, I wouldn't say I ever had any strong cravings for this whole pregnancy. Lately though I have just been really wanting fruits and juices-- something about those just taste cold and refreshing and light!
Baby's name? Well, we did finally decide to just stick with the one we had liked and have started telling people. I'll give you a hint this week-- here are the letters (scrambled....hee, hee):
N A H A C L L
And the biggest event this last week was my first shower!!!!! My sister threw it for me and did an awesome job!! This one was just for some friends and was held at Lucas Park Grille, which is a restaurant across the street from where I live. We did it on Sunday and was a brunch. The atmosphere was perfect- we did not have a private room, but the place was not crowded and our area was very segregated. We had a little area with comfy chairs by a fireplace where we could gather after eating to open gifts and worked out well. Here are the group of girls that were there (and sadly a few close friends had to miss it cause live too far away now or weren't feeling well that live in town, so I missed their company!):
We started off the fun by playing a few games while we waited for the food. The first game was a sheet of 20 excerpts of song lyrics that had "baby" in the title...then we had to name the song. Most of us were pretty bad, so luckily she then passed around a cheatsheet to help which told us all of the artists. My friend Katie won that game- she is a dance teacher, so she is probably listens to music a little more than the rest of us or pays better attention to lyrics!
The next game was a sheet that had baby pictures of us on there and you had to guess who was who. Along with that, also had to match the person's name to the correct meaning of their name. I killed this game, but of course couldn't take the prize (complete unfair advantage that I knew my info plus my sister and sister-in-law)...so I believe Lydia and Jill won that one.
We ate and then opened gifts and got the best stuff ever! Nearly everything was from my registry or stuff that we needed and I really liked, so can't imagine that any of this will get returned or not used! Here's just a few pics:
Lastly, here were the cutest little favors ever-- candy bars in this adorable wrapper with a baby sock for the hat...awwwwwwwwwwww:
10.12.2011
32 Weeks
How I'm feeling? Overall, I am feeling better than at my 30-week post. I was just so stressed out at that point and since we have now purchased the house, I feel so much better and like things are just rapidly all falling into place. I've been taking very small doses of the medicine to help with my freakouts, but unfortunately I've had a terrible time dealing with the side effects. It makes me extremely nauseas, tired, and just dizzy/shaky at times. So with all those symptoms it has really sucked. And there is so much I want to do in the coming weeks to prepare for the move! My goal is to really feel like we have everything under control and then I can stop taking the meds and hopefully feel much better!
Clothing: My main goal was to find a couple cute outfits to wear to my showers and events...but that is easier said than done! First of all, I don't feel up to going to umpteen stores to browse around and find something...and the few stores I did check just didn't have anything great. Second of all, anything that is remotely good, is also usually the most expensive...which I don't want to spend a lot of money on clothes I'll hardly wear. So that's all kind of a bummer.
Other:
Weight: 149 (up 18 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 102/70
Baby's Heartbeat: 160 (higher than recent weeks)
Fundal Height: 30 cm (still in the normal range!)
Belly Circumference: 37 in
Dr. Appt Description: This appt was very fast and routine. She said everything is looking great. It was the first appointment that the husband had to miss cause he is just swamped at work.
Picture (Rapidly growing!!):
Clothing: My main goal was to find a couple cute outfits to wear to my showers and events...but that is easier said than done! First of all, I don't feel up to going to umpteen stores to browse around and find something...and the few stores I did check just didn't have anything great. Second of all, anything that is remotely good, is also usually the most expensive...which I don't want to spend a lot of money on clothes I'll hardly wear. So that's all kind of a bummer.
Other:
- We finished the birthing class, so guess I am as prepared as I'll be at this point! Was feeling pretty sick at the last class, but was able to stay for the whole thing. I really just get light-headed and sick thinking about the whole birthing process. I left class for some of the time and just sat in the bathroom cause it was making me so queasy!!!
- Baby is still very active- usually I notice it most at night, but am noticing him moving more and more throughout the day too. Generally I just feel uncomfortable and still like there is just not enough room inside me for everything. I can't believe I still possibly have 2 more months left and it this feeling gets any worse....I'm already for the baby to be here and just get back to my usual self! There are some nights where it's just very hard to get comfortable no matter how I try to sit or lay.
- We ordered a glider chair for the nursery! Yea- our first big baby purchase and furniture purchase for the new home!
Weight: 149 (up 18 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 102/70
Baby's Heartbeat: 160 (higher than recent weeks)
Fundal Height: 30 cm (still in the normal range!)
Belly Circumference: 37 in
Dr. Appt Description: This appt was very fast and routine. She said everything is looking great. It was the first appointment that the husband had to miss cause he is just swamped at work.
Picture (Rapidly growing!!):
10.05.2011
We bought our first house together!!!
It's been a looooooooooooooong road, but we are both excited for our purchase. We spent really 9 full months looking which is just a long time and eventually wears you down. And where did we end up buying a house?? In one of the neighborhoods we looked at back in Feb. and decided against it...so it really does pay to never completely rule places out and circle back and check again. It's a neighborhood of new homes, but this is a spec/inventory home that is nearly completed-- will be done in 2 weeks! So we really don't get to pick out any finishes, but we were able to get a great price and the finishes are very neutral and similar to what we would have done anyways. The neighborhood has a pool that looks great and we've seen tons of kids around, so hopefully we really enjoy the atmosphere.
I don't have any real pictures at this point, but to give you an idea here is the info from our builder for our house. They loaded it with basically all the optional features, so that was nice! Promise I'll post real pics as soon as I get out there with the camera!
This is most similar of the pictures I could find to ours. Ours will have a 3-car garage will be the main difference.
I don't have any real pictures at this point, but to give you an idea here is the info from our builder for our house. They loaded it with basically all the optional features, so that was nice! Promise I'll post real pics as soon as I get out there with the camera!
This is most similar of the pictures I could find to ours. Ours will have a 3-car garage will be the main difference.
9.30.2011
DIY Word Art
I was down to my last large frame that still needed filled and I felt like I had already gone overboard with the wedding pics. So I feel like this has done the job of filling the frame...and was cheap, so extra bonus!
I used Microsoft Publisher and created text boxes all with different sized fonts and different font types and different color shades, then I would fill in things that describe St. Louis. I did some neighborhoods, popular streets, locations like restaurants and museums, etc. Then just took the file to Office Depot and they print for around $1. My opening was for a 11x14 print, but you have to print on 11x17 paper there since they are not really a photoshop...but is fine with me cause those extra inches don't really matter. It would be around $10 to get this printed at a walgreens on the 11x14 paper.
I really think doing some word art like this is such an easy, cheap way to fill frames around the house. I can't wait until we get a house and to make some things for the nursery!
Here's the whole thing framed on the wall:
And a close-up to see some of the fonts and words:
I used Microsoft Publisher and created text boxes all with different sized fonts and different font types and different color shades, then I would fill in things that describe St. Louis. I did some neighborhoods, popular streets, locations like restaurants and museums, etc. Then just took the file to Office Depot and they print for around $1. My opening was for a 11x14 print, but you have to print on 11x17 paper there since they are not really a photoshop...but is fine with me cause those extra inches don't really matter. It would be around $10 to get this printed at a walgreens on the 11x14 paper.
I really think doing some word art like this is such an easy, cheap way to fill frames around the house. I can't wait until we get a house and to make some things for the nursery!
Here's the whole thing framed on the wall:
And a close-up to see some of the fonts and words:
9.29.2011
30 weeks
How I'm feeling? Really each day is different. I've been taking tylonel pm a lot so the sleeping has got much better, which is a huge relief. I can think and function much better at work! I still will just have some stomach pains or bouts of feeling uncomfortable and not good. The only way I can describe it is that it just feels like there is not enough room inside me and everything is all scrunched up together. Bending over and moving around is just getting harder-- we have a standup shower with no bench or ledge, so every time I shave my legs I keep thinking this is going to be the last time, but I keep managing! My anxiety and emotions have just skyrocketed out of control, so I actually talked to the doctor today and am going to try some medication to get it under wraps. The house situation has been very stressful this last month because we had found a house that we liked and planned to put an offer down on-- however, I was all set to pay close to what they were asking and at least start the negotiating to see where they stood. The husband and realtor thought it was better to just wait a while and then put in the offer...which made me nervous that we would lose our chance to even make the offer if someone else beat us to it. Well, ONE night before we had plans to meet with the realtor and draft the offer, they accepted one from somebody else. So I was extremely upset that we never even really tried to get the house and was somewhat angry with the husband for screwing this up in my opinion. We were pretty sure that it was going to happen, so had spent time looking at flooring, checking into the daycare nearby, looking at 2nd cars we would buy, etc. Just not a pleasant situation to deal with, especially being almost 7 months pregnant counting on moving before the baby gets here! So now we are still looking for houses, but also figuring out what our plan B will be because there is good chance we will not be moved by the time he arrives.
Clothing: Full time into maternity pants now cause they are so much more comfortable...or just large loungey pants when I'm at home or not somewhere important. I still wear all my regular shirts- just have the 2 maternity shirts (one of which you'll see in the picture below!).
Name: Well I think we have settled on a name, but I'm just holding out a bit longer to make sure. Dustin is itching to tell people, so I guess we will-- I just need to be 100% convinced of the name first to make sure I don't waiver on it if anyone has negative opinions. I told Dustin he could have control over the middle name of this kid (but I have some veto power or final say if it's ridiculous) and I'm doing middle name of our next child. Of course Dustin is just coming up with stuff I hate, so this is not good....although it's not like the middle name really matters. Again, he's all into inventing names-- like it would be this great idea to come up with a blend of our names to make his middle name. Um, can't we just pick something simple like Michael that isn't going to be all confusing and weird?! We'll see what he comes up with, but told him to keep thinking on this.
Other:
Weight: 146 (up 15 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 90/62 (little lower)
Baby's Heartbeat: 148
Fundal Height: 28 cm (moved up to the normal range!)
Belly Circumference: 36 inches
Dr. Appt Description: This appt was very fast and routine. We had the ultrasound last week, so she just briefly went over those results saying everything looks really good. The baby was at 56th percentile, so just above average size. She says there is plenty of amniotic fluid, so that is a good thing. The baby is breeched now- he is basically sitting in a V-shape with his head on my upper right side, then his butt is at the low point, then feet on my upper left side. They could see his hands playing with his feet in the ultrasound, but I am really bad with making out any images or what is going on still. She said at this point being breeched means nothing and most babies will move around more in the next several weeks.
Picture:
Clothing: Full time into maternity pants now cause they are so much more comfortable...or just large loungey pants when I'm at home or not somewhere important. I still wear all my regular shirts- just have the 2 maternity shirts (one of which you'll see in the picture below!).
Name: Well I think we have settled on a name, but I'm just holding out a bit longer to make sure. Dustin is itching to tell people, so I guess we will-- I just need to be 100% convinced of the name first to make sure I don't waiver on it if anyone has negative opinions. I told Dustin he could have control over the middle name of this kid (but I have some veto power or final say if it's ridiculous) and I'm doing middle name of our next child. Of course Dustin is just coming up with stuff I hate, so this is not good....although it's not like the middle name really matters. Again, he's all into inventing names-- like it would be this great idea to come up with a blend of our names to make his middle name. Um, can't we just pick something simple like Michael that isn't going to be all confusing and weird?! We'll see what he comes up with, but told him to keep thinking on this.
Other:
- Baby is very active- usually I notice it most at night. It is weird when I look at my stomach and I see the entire thing flinch when he moves.
- We had more baby classes. Last week we had really got into the actual birthing process and I seriously was about to toss my cookies and couldn't even look at the screen at times and had to think about other things. I think actually it will be easier for me to go through it than if Dustin was the one going through this and I had to watch him.
- My belly is getting so stretched that my bellybutton is getting very shallow....and it looks freakishly tiny compared to this huge stomach. I just look at it in the mirror and don't even recognize it anymore, so is just weird.
- I've started working on a custom baby memory book that I want to put together. The ones in the store just don't seem all that great. I've seen some good ones on etsy, but are so expensive that I figured I could just make my own. We'll see though if this really gets done on top of everything else!
- I've also started on making a mobile for above the crib, so assuming it turns out I will do a post on how I made that and what it looks like!
- I think during these last 2 weeks is really the first time people have looked at me and really could tell I was pregnant vs just a little chubby. It's all been people I know, but have commented how I'm finally really showing or actually look pregnant. I still don't think I've had any stranger that has said something to me...but I also haven't been out a bunch or in situations where people would really do that. There are still days in some outfits where people do a double-take when I mention that I'm due in December saying that they can't even tell...so that is always funny to me. I got 10 weeks left and 10 lbs to gain, so should end right on track!
Weight: 146 (up 15 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 90/62 (little lower)
Baby's Heartbeat: 148
Fundal Height: 28 cm (moved up to the normal range!)
Belly Circumference: 36 inches
Dr. Appt Description: This appt was very fast and routine. We had the ultrasound last week, so she just briefly went over those results saying everything looks really good. The baby was at 56th percentile, so just above average size. She says there is plenty of amniotic fluid, so that is a good thing. The baby is breeched now- he is basically sitting in a V-shape with his head on my upper right side, then his butt is at the low point, then feet on my upper left side. They could see his hands playing with his feet in the ultrasound, but I am really bad with making out any images or what is going on still. She said at this point being breeched means nothing and most babies will move around more in the next several weeks.
Picture:
9.21.2011
Super Easy Appetizer
I absolutely love this appetizer cause takes less than 5 minutes from the time you start until it's in your mouth! The cold weather and football also made me in the mood for this. It may also be good with some jalepenos or green onion on top.
Ingredients
1 pkg cream cheese (I used reduced fat)
1 can of chili (I use with beans and meat)
Half pkg of shredded cheese (I just used a colby jack combo cause that's what we had)
Spread the cream cheese in shallow dish- I use a corningware dish that is about 10-12 in. round. Spread chili on top of that. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and microwave 3 minutes or until hot! We eat with fritos.
Ingredients
1 pkg cream cheese (I used reduced fat)
1 can of chili (I use with beans and meat)
Half pkg of shredded cheese (I just used a colby jack combo cause that's what we had)
Spread the cream cheese in shallow dish- I use a corningware dish that is about 10-12 in. round. Spread chili on top of that. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and microwave 3 minutes or until hot! We eat with fritos.
9.20.2011
Fall Stew
With the cooler weather moving in, I decided it was time to start cooking hot dinners again. So we decided to try a new stew recipe-- and it was super easy to make. It tasted pretty good, but will make a few modifications next time (which I'll mention below). I also used a lot of help from the grocery store of buying items like baby carrots you can just dump in the pot, rather than chopping up.
Ingredients
Directions
Mix together soup, wine, and flour until smooth. Combine with remaining ingredients in covered roasting pan (make sure you have a nice large pot for this). Note: It appears that the sauce barely covers all of the items, but once it cooks the sauce will thin out and you'll have plenty. Bake at 275 degrees for 4-5 hours. We served with fresh crusty bread!
Ingredients
- 2 cans tomato soup (undiluted)
- 2 c. red wine (I had used water, but would have been way better with the wine, trust me)
- 1c. flour
- 2 lbs. beef stew pieces
- 1 bag of small white onions (just peel and put in pot whole)
- 1 bag of small red potatoes (just clean and put in pot whole)
- 1 bag of small yellow potatoes (just clean and put in pot whole)
- 1 bag of baby carrots
- 4 stalks of celery- cut into 1 inch chunks
- 1 large package of whole mushrooms (approx. 24) (just clean and put in pot whole)
- Minced Garlic (we did not use, but will add next time- probably would use half of a bulb)
- 2 T. Italian herb seasonings
- 2 Bay leaves
- Fresh ground pepper
Directions
Mix together soup, wine, and flour until smooth. Combine with remaining ingredients in covered roasting pan (make sure you have a nice large pot for this). Note: It appears that the sauce barely covers all of the items, but once it cooks the sauce will thin out and you'll have plenty. Bake at 275 degrees for 4-5 hours. We served with fresh crusty bread!
9.15.2011
28 Weeks
EEK! It is hard to believe I'm now in the 3rd trimester and this is really nearing the end! I'm a couple days late getting this posted.
How I'm feeling?
To be completely honest these last few weeks have been much harder for me for all sorts of reasons. I'm going to sound like such a complainer here, but I want to somewhat accurately capture this, so I can look back and remember! First, I've just had several days of stomach aches and just feeling sorta sick. Next, I've had several nights of insomnia-- I usually can fall asleep pretty easily at night or at least within an hour. However, many times I wake up anywhere from like 2-4am and am wide awake, brain is churning, and there is no going back to sleep. A couple nights ago I got a total of 2 hours of sleep that night...and then end up just being exhausted at work the next day. I asked the doctor about this and luckily she said it's fine to take Tylenol PM, so if I have a few nights of bad sleep, then take this to guarantee a night of better sleep. I'm hoping this weekend I can catch up on some hours. I've also started having contractions, but these aren't really that uncomfortable/painful, but just something else to deal with when I can feel my stomach clench up and get hard. Another symptom that has started is my heart feels like it is racing at times- which first freaked me out, but read on the internet it was normal and doctor confirmed this as well. Along those lines I also feel like I have heightened anxiety-- I am starting to just freak out with how much we have left to do these next few months, although they aren't all things that MUST get done, but just things I would like done. So I need to keep reminding myself that everything is going to be fine even if we don't get it all done. I don't feel like my husband has the same desire to get these items done or has the same sense of urgency, so then just adds more frustration to me and more anxiety. More than anything I would just like for us to find a house- we've been looking since January basically and I'm just burnt out and ready to be done and pick something. Once we pick a house, then need to find pediatrician nearby, need to get on daycare list, we need to buy another car, we need to get some additional furniture including the nursery, need to pack up our place, need to deal with renting out our current place, etc. I'm sure it will all get done and work out, but just seems overwhelming dealing with all that on top of everything and just feel the burden is on me to get a lot of that done.
Clothing?
I acutally just ran to Target Labor Day weekend and just picked up a few things there- jeans, work pants, lounge, pants, work tops, and some casual tops. I've been going back and forth with wearing these clothes and my usual stuff. Even though I can still wear my normal pants with the belly band, I think the belly band is probably getting too tight for me and may be contributing to my stomach aches and not feeling well. I think the maternity clothes definitely make me look more pregnant so I like the fit of those better than some of my clothes, which I just feel make me look chubby.
What's new?
We have started taking childbirth classes at the hospital- it is 4 weeks long on Wednesday nights. I was hoping we might meet some other couples in the class, but not really anyone there that we would be friends with after this is over...so kind of a bummer. I'm a little undecided on the class- a lot of it is pretty general stuff that you'll get from reading books, but there have been a few helpful tips and is a good opportunity to get some questions answered specific to our hospital. I thought a funny thing happened this week in class. For the last 5-10 minutes, she turns down the lights and plays soft music and we (the woman) is supposed to lay down comfy on the floor with pillows and blankets while she talks us through practice contractions. Then the partner (in my case, my husband Dustin) is supposed to massage you or calm you. So for the beginning part I'm really annoyed with Dustin cause he has this awful habit of always shaking/jittering his legs....and he just won't stop....so how was I supposed to relax laying there as he was all jittery?! Then I almost get a case of the giggles cause I'm thinking about how UN-relaxed I am compared to everyone else in the room. Finally then Dustin stops moving and is just still- thank goodness! Well come to find out, he FELL ASLEEP! So I'm glad in the end he was nice and relaxed while I laid there anything but that!
I got pre-registered at the hospital, so we can quickly check in once I go into labor. Also got the form filled out and submitted for the epidural....definitely don't want to waste time at the moment having to do all that stuff!
Dr. Appt. Date: 9/13/2011
Weight: 145 (up 14 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 102/62 (holding steady here!)
Baby's Heartbeat: 148
Fundal Height: 25 cm
Belly Circumference: 35 inches
Dr. Appt Description: This week I had my glucose test, which consisted of drinking some "potion" that tasted like a mix of fruit punch and medicine- had to drink 10 oz in less than 6 minutes, but not gulp it. Then an hour later they took blood samples. The results came back good and no diabetes!! They did find in my blood sample though that my iron count went done and am anemic, so need to take an iron supplement now. The rest of the appointment was very standard, but my fundal height measurement was a little on the low side. So average would be 28cm and 26-30 cm. is the acceptable normal range. So my doctor doesn't think there is an issue, but just to be sure we are doing an ultrasound next week to check the baby's size and fluids. (And I'll have the tech double-check this really is a boy...doesn't hurt to get a second opinion on that too!)
Picture:
We were slackers and didn't get a picture taken until 29 weeks, so this is a week later...and you'll have to excuse how I look, but figured was better than nothing!
How I'm feeling?
To be completely honest these last few weeks have been much harder for me for all sorts of reasons. I'm going to sound like such a complainer here, but I want to somewhat accurately capture this, so I can look back and remember! First, I've just had several days of stomach aches and just feeling sorta sick. Next, I've had several nights of insomnia-- I usually can fall asleep pretty easily at night or at least within an hour. However, many times I wake up anywhere from like 2-4am and am wide awake, brain is churning, and there is no going back to sleep. A couple nights ago I got a total of 2 hours of sleep that night...and then end up just being exhausted at work the next day. I asked the doctor about this and luckily she said it's fine to take Tylenol PM, so if I have a few nights of bad sleep, then take this to guarantee a night of better sleep. I'm hoping this weekend I can catch up on some hours. I've also started having contractions, but these aren't really that uncomfortable/painful, but just something else to deal with when I can feel my stomach clench up and get hard. Another symptom that has started is my heart feels like it is racing at times- which first freaked me out, but read on the internet it was normal and doctor confirmed this as well. Along those lines I also feel like I have heightened anxiety-- I am starting to just freak out with how much we have left to do these next few months, although they aren't all things that MUST get done, but just things I would like done. So I need to keep reminding myself that everything is going to be fine even if we don't get it all done. I don't feel like my husband has the same desire to get these items done or has the same sense of urgency, so then just adds more frustration to me and more anxiety. More than anything I would just like for us to find a house- we've been looking since January basically and I'm just burnt out and ready to be done and pick something. Once we pick a house, then need to find pediatrician nearby, need to get on daycare list, we need to buy another car, we need to get some additional furniture including the nursery, need to pack up our place, need to deal with renting out our current place, etc. I'm sure it will all get done and work out, but just seems overwhelming dealing with all that on top of everything and just feel the burden is on me to get a lot of that done.
Clothing?
I acutally just ran to Target Labor Day weekend and just picked up a few things there- jeans, work pants, lounge, pants, work tops, and some casual tops. I've been going back and forth with wearing these clothes and my usual stuff. Even though I can still wear my normal pants with the belly band, I think the belly band is probably getting too tight for me and may be contributing to my stomach aches and not feeling well. I think the maternity clothes definitely make me look more pregnant so I like the fit of those better than some of my clothes, which I just feel make me look chubby.
What's new?
We have started taking childbirth classes at the hospital- it is 4 weeks long on Wednesday nights. I was hoping we might meet some other couples in the class, but not really anyone there that we would be friends with after this is over...so kind of a bummer. I'm a little undecided on the class- a lot of it is pretty general stuff that you'll get from reading books, but there have been a few helpful tips and is a good opportunity to get some questions answered specific to our hospital. I thought a funny thing happened this week in class. For the last 5-10 minutes, she turns down the lights and plays soft music and we (the woman) is supposed to lay down comfy on the floor with pillows and blankets while she talks us through practice contractions. Then the partner (in my case, my husband Dustin) is supposed to massage you or calm you. So for the beginning part I'm really annoyed with Dustin cause he has this awful habit of always shaking/jittering his legs....and he just won't stop....so how was I supposed to relax laying there as he was all jittery?! Then I almost get a case of the giggles cause I'm thinking about how UN-relaxed I am compared to everyone else in the room. Finally then Dustin stops moving and is just still- thank goodness! Well come to find out, he FELL ASLEEP! So I'm glad in the end he was nice and relaxed while I laid there anything but that!
I got pre-registered at the hospital, so we can quickly check in once I go into labor. Also got the form filled out and submitted for the epidural....definitely don't want to waste time at the moment having to do all that stuff!
Dr. Appt. Date: 9/13/2011
Weight: 145 (up 14 lbs from start)
Blood Pressure: 102/62 (holding steady here!)
Baby's Heartbeat: 148
Fundal Height: 25 cm
Belly Circumference: 35 inches
Dr. Appt Description: This week I had my glucose test, which consisted of drinking some "potion" that tasted like a mix of fruit punch and medicine- had to drink 10 oz in less than 6 minutes, but not gulp it. Then an hour later they took blood samples. The results came back good and no diabetes!! They did find in my blood sample though that my iron count went done and am anemic, so need to take an iron supplement now. The rest of the appointment was very standard, but my fundal height measurement was a little on the low side. So average would be 28cm and 26-30 cm. is the acceptable normal range. So my doctor doesn't think there is an issue, but just to be sure we are doing an ultrasound next week to check the baby's size and fluids. (And I'll have the tech double-check this really is a boy...doesn't hurt to get a second opinion on that too!)
Picture:
We were slackers and didn't get a picture taken until 29 weeks, so this is a week later...and you'll have to excuse how I look, but figured was better than nothing!
9.12.2011
Random Good Things
I realized all of my posts are turning into things baby-related, so here is one of just random stuff going on with us right now! As you'll see, this post truly is just random of stuff we've enjoyed lately...
Good Restaurant (in St. Louis)
Labor Day weekend we had a free night and decided we had to get out and do something to take advantage of our free time pre-baby. We got in the car and just drove towards SLU and Central West End to see what kind of restaurant we could find-- we didn't really see anything new catch our eye, so decided to go to Dressel's since we had never been there. It was a good find cause the atmosphere and food was great! They use local food in a lot of their dishes-- Dustin got some lamb special that he said was awesome. The beer they had was amazing- lots of Belgian choices...so we'll definitely be coming back here once I can drink again!
Good Movie
We had decided to see a movie that night since we rarely do this due to the obnoxious cost they charge these days. We had settled on The Help since it was at the Moolah Theater, which is my favorite place to go since they have comfy leather couches to sit on. However, we get there and the line was so long that we had zero chance of getting a couch....so we decided to leave cause we didn't want to see the movie all that badly and sit in their uncomfy old seats. So we headed out to the county to go to a large multiplex type place and just pick something that was showing. One of the only choices was The Debt and it was great! I NEVER write movie reviews and grade them, but felt like this one was so good and the users on yahoo were ripping it apart, that I had to log on and stick up for it. Definitely a good movie to see or rent-- I thought it told a great story and had a good amount of suspense and surprises in it.
Good Concert
Our local radio station (105.7 The Point) sponsors a huge concert at least once a year called Pointfest. I used to love this station back in the high school and college years, but now I never listen to it anymore. I think it is described as Alternative, but for some reason I just don't care for the bands anymore and is too heavy sounding....ya, I'm sounding old I know. Anyways, this years headliners of the show were right up my alley, so we got tickets. Cake was one of the main bands and I have LOVED them for at least 15 years now. They were great to see live, but only got to play 30-40 minutes so barely got in any older songs...and considering basically the entire Fashion Nugget album is awesome, we were bummed we got to here maybe 2-3 songs from it. We did hear Stickshifts and Safety Belts which is one of our faves, so that was fun.
Here's us with our friend Crystal at the show....being old and lame sitting...guess gray was the color to wear that day! We were commenting how a few years ago we thought- who would go to a concert and sit, what is wrong with those people?!?! Now that's us! Although we did stand for all the songs of the bands we liked, so we aren't 100% lame....yet.
Next up was Chevelle, which I'm embarrassed to say, I did not know anything by them since I don't listen to this style of music anymore! However, I enjoyed listening to them...the lead singer was good to look at....so I may go download some of their music. Next up was The Urge, which most people do not know who they are, but in St. Louis they have a HUGE following. 10 Years ago they played Pointfest as their last show before breaking up....and then they reunited for this show and announced they are now back together and will be coming out with more music. It had to be incredible for them-- this was at a large outdoor ampitheater and the whole place was cheering and singing and supporting them...I just think if I was in a band, that moment has to feel awesome. It seemed like 90% of the people there were purely there to see The Urge and after they were done, the place cleared out. Lastly, Bush closed out the show. Man, I thought Gavin Rossdale used to be good-looking back when I was young, but he did not seem to have aged well at all! He sounded awesome though and was VERY appreciative of the fans (who stuck around). (Gavin is on the bottom right of the pic with the guitar)
One annoying thing about the show was that we were in actual seats vs. the lawn and it was no smoking in the seats. Well within 5 minutes of sitting down, people are lighting up all over the place and it is just driving me nuts how disrespectful they are. I was debating to go complain, but figured it was useless...until my hero in a yellow security shirt arrived and patrolled it! He couldn't catch everyone, but he did a decent job at finding the people and making them stop....but as the night went on, he disappeared somewhere and then there was no hope. It seriously was just a different breed of people at this show-- I always say going to most concerts at this venue and Six Flags just bring out these people who I wonder how they even function in society. Half of them just look like your typical white trash people-- something we would put together only for a halloween costume! The guy behind us apparently just came shirtless to the show, despite the fact that it got down to nice temps in the 70s all evening....and he had a fat gut, so it was so gross when I was sitting and he's standing up behind us and I can see this emerging pale gut next to my face. They really need to require shirts, regardless of how hot it is. Ugh.
Good Video Game
I've been spending the last month probably playing Lego Harry Potter on the Wii....yes, this sounds lame and I HATE harry potter and know nothing about that series, but the lego video games seriously rock! They are the exact style of play that I enjoy-- lots of levels where you have to collect money and find hidden objects. Dustin usually plays with me, but had to stop for a while cause thought it was giving him headaches-- I told him that is going to be an issue just as we have a baby boy that he can no longer play video games cause gets headaches! He claims now that it is better or tolerable...so we'll see!
Other than that we primarily spend our time doing something baby-related or house-hunting!
Good Restaurant (in St. Louis)
Labor Day weekend we had a free night and decided we had to get out and do something to take advantage of our free time pre-baby. We got in the car and just drove towards SLU and Central West End to see what kind of restaurant we could find-- we didn't really see anything new catch our eye, so decided to go to Dressel's since we had never been there. It was a good find cause the atmosphere and food was great! They use local food in a lot of their dishes-- Dustin got some lamb special that he said was awesome. The beer they had was amazing- lots of Belgian choices...so we'll definitely be coming back here once I can drink again!
Good Movie
We had decided to see a movie that night since we rarely do this due to the obnoxious cost they charge these days. We had settled on The Help since it was at the Moolah Theater, which is my favorite place to go since they have comfy leather couches to sit on. However, we get there and the line was so long that we had zero chance of getting a couch....so we decided to leave cause we didn't want to see the movie all that badly and sit in their uncomfy old seats. So we headed out to the county to go to a large multiplex type place and just pick something that was showing. One of the only choices was The Debt and it was great! I NEVER write movie reviews and grade them, but felt like this one was so good and the users on yahoo were ripping it apart, that I had to log on and stick up for it. Definitely a good movie to see or rent-- I thought it told a great story and had a good amount of suspense and surprises in it.
Good Concert
Our local radio station (105.7 The Point) sponsors a huge concert at least once a year called Pointfest. I used to love this station back in the high school and college years, but now I never listen to it anymore. I think it is described as Alternative, but for some reason I just don't care for the bands anymore and is too heavy sounding....ya, I'm sounding old I know. Anyways, this years headliners of the show were right up my alley, so we got tickets. Cake was one of the main bands and I have LOVED them for at least 15 years now. They were great to see live, but only got to play 30-40 minutes so barely got in any older songs...and considering basically the entire Fashion Nugget album is awesome, we were bummed we got to here maybe 2-3 songs from it. We did hear Stickshifts and Safety Belts which is one of our faves, so that was fun.
Here's us with our friend Crystal at the show....being old and lame sitting...guess gray was the color to wear that day! We were commenting how a few years ago we thought- who would go to a concert and sit, what is wrong with those people?!?! Now that's us! Although we did stand for all the songs of the bands we liked, so we aren't 100% lame....yet.
Next up was Chevelle, which I'm embarrassed to say, I did not know anything by them since I don't listen to this style of music anymore! However, I enjoyed listening to them...the lead singer was good to look at....so I may go download some of their music. Next up was The Urge, which most people do not know who they are, but in St. Louis they have a HUGE following. 10 Years ago they played Pointfest as their last show before breaking up....and then they reunited for this show and announced they are now back together and will be coming out with more music. It had to be incredible for them-- this was at a large outdoor ampitheater and the whole place was cheering and singing and supporting them...I just think if I was in a band, that moment has to feel awesome. It seemed like 90% of the people there were purely there to see The Urge and after they were done, the place cleared out. Lastly, Bush closed out the show. Man, I thought Gavin Rossdale used to be good-looking back when I was young, but he did not seem to have aged well at all! He sounded awesome though and was VERY appreciative of the fans (who stuck around). (Gavin is on the bottom right of the pic with the guitar)
One annoying thing about the show was that we were in actual seats vs. the lawn and it was no smoking in the seats. Well within 5 minutes of sitting down, people are lighting up all over the place and it is just driving me nuts how disrespectful they are. I was debating to go complain, but figured it was useless...until my hero in a yellow security shirt arrived and patrolled it! He couldn't catch everyone, but he did a decent job at finding the people and making them stop....but as the night went on, he disappeared somewhere and then there was no hope. It seriously was just a different breed of people at this show-- I always say going to most concerts at this venue and Six Flags just bring out these people who I wonder how they even function in society. Half of them just look like your typical white trash people-- something we would put together only for a halloween costume! The guy behind us apparently just came shirtless to the show, despite the fact that it got down to nice temps in the 70s all evening....and he had a fat gut, so it was so gross when I was sitting and he's standing up behind us and I can see this emerging pale gut next to my face. They really need to require shirts, regardless of how hot it is. Ugh.
Good Video Game
I've been spending the last month probably playing Lego Harry Potter on the Wii....yes, this sounds lame and I HATE harry potter and know nothing about that series, but the lego video games seriously rock! They are the exact style of play that I enjoy-- lots of levels where you have to collect money and find hidden objects. Dustin usually plays with me, but had to stop for a while cause thought it was giving him headaches-- I told him that is going to be an issue just as we have a baby boy that he can no longer play video games cause gets headaches! He claims now that it is better or tolerable...so we'll see!
Other than that we primarily spend our time doing something baby-related or house-hunting!
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