Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Dearest You,

Today is a very special day. Today, three years ago, I married a very amazing man, your Daddy. I am a little in awe at how quickly time has passed. It seems like forever, and like barely a day. I anticipate this is what it will feel like to watch you grow, as if you were always here and yet that I still have so much to learn about you.  I have been wanting to write to you about your Daddy for several weeks and I think today is an excellent day to do it.

You are such a lucky girl because you are going to have an wonderful Daddy who already loves you very much. In a way I am a little jealous, but mostly just so grateful. I can't wait for him to make you laugh. He is a very funny guy and he may give you a hard time and playfully pick on you but always remember it is all out of love ( he does it to me too). He is such a kid at heart that he will always be coming up with new fun ways for you to play together (and pick on mommy).

He will discipline you sometimes (when necessary) but he is patient and fair and will always hear you out. Your Daddy gives the best hugs, hands down. There is nothing more comforting than to be wrapped in those strong arms.  Your Daddy maybe scared of snakes (I don't blame him) and heights (maybe we can get him over this) but what he is not afraid of is hard work to get the things that he wants. I hope you inherit this from him.  He is resourceful and practical and he is good about keeping you grounded.

I can't tell you enough how amazing he is and how excited I am for you that he is you Daddy. Daddy's are very important to a little girl (little boys too I think, but I can only speak from my experience).

Love,
Mommy

Baby Bump Update

I posted this picture on facebook this weekend but noticed I haven't posted many baby bump pics on here lately or really at all.  I'm just bad about taking pictures of myself and Curtis always gets home from work after the sun has gone down, making pictures with good lighting impossible. This was taken the day after Christmas as we were heading to Houston. 

WWMD

Today I realized that as of Saturday it will only be 2 1/2 months until Mia is here and I panicked for a moment. I am so excited for her arrival but also terrified. I am assuming this is totally normal. I mean it's a big deal to realize that while all my life I have been the daughter, in a very short time I am going to be the mom. I will be the protector, comforter, teacher, and hopefully friend. That can be a lot of pressure if you think too much about it. Thankfully I have an amazing mother so I have a great example to follow. I anticipate many WWMD (What would Mom do?) moments in the future. 

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Nursery Decor Ideas...

Mia has already gotten a Christmas present! My lovely friend Brittney decided to get crafty and made these super chic letters that spell out A-M-E-L-I-A. (I only included Mia in the picture b/c it fit better) I was planning on going with brown and white as the basis of Mia's nursery color palette. I wanted to add another color for contrast but hadn't decided on one yet. So, Brittney kind of helped with that. I love love love this blue, and blue is Curtis' favorite color.  I am hoping to have Mia's bedding made, either by me or Mia's Gigi.  I was really excited when I found these fabrics at Sew Mama Sew. I like the blue and yellow best (sorry, not a big pink fan). What do y'all think? Will her room still seem girlie with brown, blue, and yellow? or should I opt for the same pattern in brown, blue, and pink?

In the home stretch!

27 weeks and 6 days.

On Tuesday we had our first appointment of the third trimester. We are officially in the home stretch! I can't believe that in about 3 short little months Mia will be here. I feel like I know her already. She moves so much, almost constantly poking and prodding me. She "dances" to music with a strong beat and pushes back when she is pushed on. There have been some great moments of interaction with her Daddy, but I will save those stories for another entry.

This doctor's appointment was super early because I had to take the glucose test. I have heard people describe the substance you have to drink as flat orange soda but to me it was thicker than that. It was more like drinking several melted popsicles, mainly gross. It's also not the best thing on an empty stomach. I had to force myself to keep it down. After an hour of reading magazines and trying not to vomit, they pricked my finger, took my blood, and I was told I failed. I wasn't too surprised. I know several family members who had gestational diabetes. I was still a little disappointed. So far everything about my pregnancy has been great and this is the first snag. I have to go back after the new year for a longer 3 hour test, which is really what will determine if I do in fact have gestational diabetes. I am hoping this test will be positive. Curtis and I are going to start walking 30 minutes a day and I am going to cut out the few sugar rich foods I eat. This should help according to the doctor.

After the test we had our third trimester ultrasound, which I think should be the last unless something concerning happens. She was very cooperative for the technician and let her get all the measurements she needed. Even, though I lost weight (2 lbs) since last visit she is doing great. She is measuring a few days bigger than her due date and weighs 2lbs. 3 oz. I can hardly believe she is so big! It is such a blessing to know she is growing strong. The picture above was one of the best pictures we got to take home. It really is the sweetest face I have ever seen. I think she's got my nose, but I guess we will just have to wait and see.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Dearest You,

Tonight after dinner your Daddy and I drove around looking at Christmas lights and listening to Christmas music on the car radio. We reminisced about favorite holiday memories and fantasied about Christmas' to come that will be shared with you. There are so many traditions that our dear to our hearts that we can't wait to experience with you, from decorating the tree, to the surprise of Christmas morning. It's like all the holidays we have experienced our whole lives are about to be brand new.

Love,
Mommy

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Mia's Christmas Wish List

I am only posting this by request. I have been telling anyone that asked that if you want to get Mia something for Christmas just check the registry but someone made the request that I think of a few things we want for Mia but don't necessarily need. So, here are a few things I'd like Mia to have (that she doesn't need.) Plus, these would be good gift ideas for any baby girl.

Cute hair accessories are a little girl must. This is my favorite design from Etsy seller ummashin. She has adorable hats and headbands for all ages. I love that the colors are so modern and trendy. It makes it easier to match to outfits. 

Have you seen anything so adorable??? I am in LOVE with these shoes. In general I think Baby shoes impractical for children not actually able to walk yet but when the shoes look like this how can you say no? You can find them here in many different colors, but I can't get enough of apple green.
I just think this Texas shaped teething toy is the bomb! Curtis and I are very proud to be from the Lone Star State and I just think this is such a cute (but not over the top) way to show that love. Little Sapling Toys has many different states in their collection so show a little pride in your own state, even if it's not Texas.
The Cloud B Gentle Giraffe - Travel Sound Machine. A few weeks back I came across this online, probably on one of the many blogs I follow but I fail to remember where exactly. That same week a customer that came into the store had one and I got a chance to ask her what she thought of it. She said she loved it and that it really helped sooth her daughter to sleep while they were out and about running errands. So, I have been wanting one ever since. The cheapest I have found it is Amazon.

I hope this little list helps out with Christmas shopping. :)

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Dearest You,

Amelia Maria,
Your name has been a long time in the making. It all started when your Great-great-great-grandmother Essie Mae named your great-great grandmother (her 1st born) Loraine Marie. Loraine in turned named her first born, your great grandma (Gigi), Margie Marie. Then Gigi named your Grammi, also the first born Carrie Marie and finally your Grammi named me, Nicole Marie. So, you see little one your middle name is very special. You share it with four generations of beautiful, strong, inspiring (first born) women.

Everyone wants to give me credit for choosing your full name (apparently it just sounds like something I would choose), but I can't take it. Amelia was 100% your Daddy's idea and it just happened to be perfect. We brainstormed many names for you, well mostly I did, your Daddy just approved or denied. When it came to girl names he denied every suggestion I had. He is a evil master mind and he would come up with every bad nickname I hadn't thought of for all my suggestions. So, finally I told him to suggest one name, just one and we would hope I liked it. With barely a moments thought he said, "Amelia," and it was perfect.

Amelia Marie is a special name but I also know the great advantages of having a nickname. So, to those who love you, you will be our Mia. I have already started calling you by your name and so far you seem to approve. ;) I hope that continues for the rest of your life because as I said your name is very special, it is yours.  

Baby Time

The last few weeks since Thanksgiving have been full on stress. I haven't thought about anything but school. I've fallen behind on everything that was not necessary and now it's time to play catch up.  We have a month break between semesters this time round and that is such a relief to me. I've had so many people ask me how I am enjoying being pregnant and honestly I've hardly had time to think about it. At least not as deeply as I would like. I really want to take time to enjoy this experience over the next month. I have plans to super clean the house, and get the nursery in order. I want to get a chance to enjoy the holidays, next year it will all be different. It's so strange to think this is Curtis and my last Christmas and New Year just the two of us. Next year we will be a bonafide family. :)

Over the break I am also planning to update more often. Ultimately, once a day is my goal but with how busy we will be I am doubting that I will achieve it. Several times a week would make me happy though. Wish me luck and stay tuned! Lots of exciting things to come.

Monday, November 29, 2010

Thankful for a Break...


This past week has been wonderful. I made a reckless but I think ultimately wise decision last Friday that the week of Thanksgiving I was not going to think about school. I didn’t go to class Monday (I didn’t miss much, I checked with a friend) and I didn’t work on any homework (nothing was due right away). It was just nice to get to enjoy time with friends and family. I also finally got sometime to really enjoy being pregnant. I was surround all week but people who are as excited as I am that Baby D is coming. My sisters in particular were willing to indulge in non-stop baby talk and even a little shopping. It was so great to actually get to think about this miracle that is happening inside of me instead of what chores have to be done, what bills need to be paid and how much time I have until that project deadline.

Baby D has also been extremely active this last week, which only added to the fun as everyone got to touch my stomach and get introduced to the little person I have been feeling for a few weeks. I have confirmed that this girl does not liked to be pushed around. When my mom tried to feel her as she pushed out on my stomach she retreated and when Curtis pushed on her too much for her taste she kicked me the hardest she ever has. I like to have these little glimpses of her personality. It’s sometimes hard to interpret her activity but it’s like pieces to a puzzle that I am just beginning to put together, which I have a lifetime to complete. 

I am now back in the grind of things, thank you Monday morning, but I am hoping to get back to enjoying baby time once school is done for the semester. I am trying not to panic when I think that there is only two weeks left to get everything done. I hope that I will be able to post more often and more thoughtfully after Dec. 13th. So, far this blog isn't quite what I want it to be but I hope it will be soon. 

Progress Report


How far along? 24 weeks and 5 days.
Total weight gain/loss: We don't own a scale so I haven't been keeping track.
Maternity clothes? My tops are starting to get tight and Curtis teased me the other day b/c my tummy was sticking out the bottom of my coat. So, some shopping maybe in order.
Stretch Marks? She is definitely helping me with the stretching part but still no marks as of yet.
Sleep: It is getting more uncomfortable. I have been using an extra pillow to put between my legs but I think a body pillow will be needed soon.
Best Moment This Week: feeling her kick/punch on both sides of my stomach at the same time. I decided she was dancing.
Movement: She is a busy bee but likes to keep quiet if I am moving around a lot.
Gender: She is a girl! :D
Food Cravings: None this week, but Thanksgiving lunch and dinner sure was delicious.
What I miss: Getting out of bed normally. I have to turn on my side and kind of roll off now. Apparently ab muscles don’t work when they stretch out.
What I am looking forward to:  School being out. The next two weeks are going to be crazy!
Belly button in or out? It is still in but it won’t be long before it is out.
Weekly Wisdom: One step at a time. :)

Friday, November 26, 2010

Week 24 Doctor's Visit

Tuesday was a rather stressful day with my doctor's appointment overlapping my shift at work. I went into work at 8 and then took a "long" lunch for my appointment. Curtis totally forgot about our appointment and wasn't ready to go when I arrived to pick him up. I was so worried about being late I forgot to grab the pregnancy yoga book my sister loaned me. I wanted to get the Doctor's approval before starting any new exercises/stretches. I guess it will have to wait until next visit...
Anyways, on to the good part, it is official Baby D is a girl. The nurse had no problems getting between those legs this time. ;) I even have two pictures with her girly parts circled to embarrass her later in life. Oh the fun of being a parent! The best news is that she is perfectly healthy and the Doctor is very happy with my weight gain, which I have mentioned has been minimal.
We go in next month for our last monthly visit before we start going every two weeks. I will have my glucose test and our 3rd trimester ultrasound. I can't believe we are almost in the third trimester. Before I know it she will be here and I will have no life. J/k. It does seem to be going by fast. December break will be spent getting the house baby ready. I am really looking forward to it. My nesting instincts are really kicking in, or maybe that is just the interior designer in me...

Friday, November 19, 2010

Something New

I have to confess I am stealing this clever little update from a fellow blogger. I just recently started following You Plus Me Is Three on tumblr and I think this little form is the perfect solution to my lazy blogging. I am hoping it will help keep me focused and maybe motivated to update more. So, here it goes...

How far along? 23 weeks and 2 days.
Total weight gain/loss: We don't own a scale so I haven't been keeping track.
Maternity clothes? I am wearing the maternity pants I bought from Old Navy almost exclusively, but I still fit into most of my tops.
Stretch Marks? None as of yet. I'm still pretty small, but I am glad to say I look pregnant now. :)
Sleep: Not that good. I do sleep at night but it's not very deep. I wake up almost as tired as I am when I close my eyes the night before and that is usually 8-9 hours ago.
Best Moment This Week: Curtis finally feeling Baby D kick. :)
Movement: Baby D is very active for the most part but definitely has his/her quiet time.
Gender: We still don't know for certain, but we have another ultrasound Tuesday (11/23.) I plan to get moving around early and to drink a glass of ice tea before I go. The last time I drank ice tea (and only time since getting pregnant) Baby D was doing cartwheels all afternoon.
Food Cravings: Cupcakes, always.
What I miss: being able to tie my shoes easily. I can still do it but it takes some maneuvering. I have a feeling my slip on Vans may become my go-to shoes later on.
What I am looking forward to: Seeing Baby D again on Tuesday. I really don't care if we still don't find out the gender I could watch this kiddo for hours (and probably will once s/he is born).
Belly button in or out? still in
Weekly Wisdom: Stop wondering why you are so tired all the time. You are growing a human being for goodness sake!







 

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Sleep? What's that?

At least that is how I have felt the last week. I can now really feel this kiddo moving and the bad news is it's almost all the time, but I'm not sure if that is why I'm getting horrible sleep. I lay down every night and go to "sleep" but when I wake up I feel like I haven't slept at all. It's very possible it maybe stress from school and other related issues. It's just that feeling like a zombie is getting very old. I haven't had any hormonal freak outs yet since I've been pregnant but if this continues I can easily see that happening.  Oh well, just wanted to whine a bit. Thanks for indulging me.

- Nic

Monday, November 8, 2010

Friday, November 5, 2010

Etsy Find Friday

You all know I have a thing for rompers and in particular sailor inspired rompers. So, since we are 70% sure Baby D is a girl my dreams of sailor rompers have been dashed. Or so I thought. A lovely friend of mine mentioned she had seen a girls sailor romper online somewhere and then last night when I was wandering around Etsy I came across this amazing romper at Miskabelly.

I want it so bad. Plus, Curtis won't care what I dress our little girl in. He only has (strong) opinions about boys attire. :) It's a win win! I just hope someone else doesn't snatch it up before we find out Baby D's gender for certain.

Pretty Colors



I love love LOVE this nursery featured over at Spearmint Baby. I read an article recently about how exposing your child to different types of textiles (blankets) helps them develop their sense of touch. So, I have been obsessed with crocheted or knitted blankets lately. I actually made a baby blanket a year or so ago for my Etsy shop but couldn't bare to part with it once it was done. My sister also has plans to work on a blanket for Baby D. The one in the picture above is so fun and playful! The colors are gorgeous. I found this adorable crocheted Granny square blanket at sunshinegirl37’s shop. I think it would make an great Christmas gift (wink, wink.)


Custom Granny Squares Afghan

Monday, November 1, 2010

Music Lessons

 Since Baby D is now able to pick up on sounds going on around us it's made me start thinking about the things I listen to, mainly music. I have a wide range of musical taste. I like music from all decades, most genres and if I can sing a long I am hooked. The one thing I don't really consider much when it comes to music is lyrics. For me whether I like a song has more to do with a great beat and catchy melody than the words of the song, but the other day I started really listening to the lyrics of the music on the Top 40 radio station I usually listen to. Yikes! I can't believe some of the things I have been sing a long to. Since then I have been kind of making an on going list in my head of bands/artisits I will no longer listen to once Baby D arrives. The funny thing to me is that most of these artists are contemporary. A lot of the stuff I grew up listening to passes the test, but I think the reason for that is because it seems tame to what is currently popular. I have a feeling I will be listening to a lot of Beatles, Beach Boys and Ann Murray in the future. Which doesn't disappoint me one bit because the thought of Baby D singing about wanting to take a ride on a "disco stick" is totally terrifying.

p.s. Today on the way to school an MJ song came on the radio and Baby D suddenly got very active. I'm just not sure if it was out of appreciation or complaint...

Thursday, October 28, 2010

So, I was right...

Baby D was shy but I didn't cry after all. Our appointment started off with the ultrasound tech. She was super nice and tried about everything to get this kiddo to move around but Baby D just wasn't having it. I think it more than likely Baby D was still asleep and s/he sleeps just like his/her Daddy. At one point Curtis and the Tech said they got a glimpse at the goods but neither could say for sure. So, we are only 70% sure Baby D is a girl. We go back Nov. 23 and will try again.

Until then I have decided to start referring to Baby D as "she." It just makes everything so much easier, but I'm not going to go out and buy anything girly until we know for sure. I've gotten tons of advice on how to get Baby D moving for next time but I think honestly she is really cramped and that is why she doesn't move much. I am below average so far with my weight gain and when she moves from a horizontal position into a vertical one it is already super uncomfortable for me. The tech mentioned something about feeling flutters but what I feel is more like punches or kicks. There is nothing subtle about it.


I have been so busy lately with school and work. It was so nice that Tuesday was all about Baby D. I loved getting to see her. She really is so beautiful, even in the fuzzy ultrasound images. We got to see so much since she wouldn't corporate. I almost think she did it on purpose. We saw her opening and shutting her mouth. She is definitely our child; there is no mistaking that prominent chin. She even got the hiccups! It was so cute. I'm even tearing up a little at the memory. I can't wait until I get to watch her everyday.

I can't decide if I want to bother posting the pics from the ultrasound this time. The pictures they printed are really unclear and it's hard to tell what anything is. I will for sure be posting some new bump pics soon. I ordered new maternity clothes from Old Navy and I want to model them. :) 

Until Then,
Nic

Monday, October 25, 2010

It's like Christmas! :)

Earlier I wasn't feeling that excited about the doctor's visit tomorrow. I think it was mostly the stress of the 8 page paper on library design I had hanging over my head. Now, that I am finished with it I am not sure how I am going to sleep I am so excited. It's like Christmas Eve and you know that you are going to get the most awesome present b/c it's one of two things you really want, but you just don't know which! Ugh! I just hope this kiddo doesn't decide to be shy. I will cry.  I just thought you should be warned.

Curtis is planning to take video footage with my camera so if I can figure out how to edit and post some I will. :)

Sunday, October 24, 2010

We have movement!

A couple of weeks ago I was laying in bed one night and felt what I can only describe as light popcorn popping on my insides. I thought perhaps it was the baby moving but brushed it off as probably just internal goings on. Then, the last few days I have had stronger "popcorn" several times a day, not just when I am laying still. I am now pretty sure this is Baby D finally letting me know "Hey! I'm in here!" It is such a neat, cool experience. :) My lovely friend Jill got Curtis and I a fetal doppler and I've gotten in the habit of listening to Baby D's heart beat and "chatting" with him/her (two more days and we will know! hopefully) every night. It felt weird at first talking out loud to what looks like to others as myself but it's easier now. I'm not sure why but it's become super important to me that Baby D know my voice. Sometimes, I sing too... :)

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Hey Sailor Boy!

It's been too long since I posted last. I've had a project for school that basically took over my life for the past 5 days. I don't even have much time to post right now but I wanted to share this:
Isn't it so cute? My husband would kill me if I dressed Baby D in this (if Baby D is a boy!) but I just think it is adorable. It reminds me of a baby romper from the 1950's. Plus, who doesn't love a sailor? ;)
Petit Confection has a super cute collection full of adorable rompers for Boys and Girls as well as beautiful clothes of older kids.. Find this one here

I promise to update more soon. I will find the time. I have several things that have been rolling around in my head that I'd like to share.

Until then,
Nic

Monday, October 11, 2010

You mean I don't look like a cow?

If one more person tells me, "Oh! You're 4 months along? You don't even look pregnant!" or "But you can't be that far along. You're still so small," I will scream. Seriously. I'm not sure if people are trying to be nice, like "don't worry you're not fat yet," or what but it makes me feel terrible. I mean from everything I have read I am right where I need to be as far as weight goes and my Doctor didn't say anything to be about my weight gain during our last visit, so I should be good. But every time someone reacts like that it makes me feel like I am not eating enough or Baby D might not be getting what he/she needs. I know that I need to get a thicker skin about this stuff. It's only going to get worse, especially once Baby D is actually here. It just makes me so frustrated that people don't consider how what they say might be taken by the other person. Urgh!

Okay, I'm done with my vent for the day. I will try and add a new picture soon. It's just that my house is a mess and I want to clean it a bit before capturing it in the background. I really haven't gain much weight the last couple of weeks but my stomach is growing wider. My belly button used to look like a long slit on my stomach but now it is stretched to more of a circle. I won't be documenting this because I doubt anyone wants to see my naked stomach. ;)

I should probably wait until everyone else has voted but I am putting my vote in now. I am voting for a girl. I think it only fair since Curtis is hoping so hard for a boy. If Baby D is a girl I don't want her to feel like we were wishing she was a boy b/c I am certainly not. I will be happy no matter what. That said, little girls are so much fun! They have all the pretty clothes and cute dolls. I am not a huge fan of pink but I do really like purple. Just 2 more weeks to go before we find out!

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Hey Newbies!

I really like playing around with web design stuff. Maybe I picked the wrong career path? Maybe I've missed my calling? Who knows! What I do know is that I am loving Blog Guidebook. In the last week I have learned how to create a custom banner and buttons for this blog. So, cool! Definitely check it out if you are new to the blogsphere like me or even if you are a pro. It's an awesome resource I am sure I will be using again and again.

p.s. I had fun with my wedding pictures but have a feeling this may get a lot more exciting/addicting once Baby D arrives. ;)

Pregnancy Pro!

I am a side sleeper. I always have been, at least as far as I can remember. I don't prefer one side to the other, any side will do. What won't do is sleeping on my stomach or back. So, when the Doc told me (like I knew he eventually would) that I needed to start sleeping on my side I though, "No Problem!" and smiled smugly. This was one thing I didn't have to worry about. In this one aspect I would be a pregnancy pro.

Well, a week ago my pestering cold became more of a mild flu. I could no longer count on being able to breath out my nose. Suddenly the easiest way to breath and the most appealing way to sleep was on my back. I am proud to report I have not given into temptation but I also haven't slept very well. So much for being a pro.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Lazy Day Finds...

So, I have committed to the woodland/forest animal theme for Baby D's room but if Baby D turns out to be a girl (which was not how my dream last night turned out...) I will be very tempted to change everything to this:
Matryoshka Learning Lovey by MamaMayI


 I just love Babushka or Matryoshka dolls. I have a painted wooden one my grandparents brought me from Russia years and years ago. It is beautiful and I still display it in my bed room. Plus, there are so many cute options out there. Here are just a few I found on Etsy.
Onesie or Baby Tee by valeriya
Crib Bumper Pad by SewnNatural
Matryoshka Cloth Doll by lolahpopvintagebaby

Time Out

Ever since the weather started changing three weeks ago I have had a cold. It is really depressing b/c my doctor has a limited list of over the counter medicines I can take and so far nothing has worked. So, I have just suffered on. Today, I just couldn't get out of bed. I hate missing school since no matter what I always feel behind after but I am learning that I have to take care of myself. I can't push my body to it's limits b/c it's not just about me anymore.  I decided that taking a day to rest was the right thing to do. It's given me the opportunity to sleep and pamper myself a little. I think Baby D approves. We will both feel better for it. :)

Sunday, October 3, 2010

My recent dilemma...

I think I am going to have to buy new pants soon or at least some longer shirts so I can use my belly band. Most of my pants fit fine standing up but once I sit down get too tight. I bought a belly band a couple of weeks ago and it works great at keeping pants up (it fits over unzipped jeans.) The only problem is it peeks out from beneath my shirts. Does anyone have any suggestions on putting off buying maternity wear? Or stores that offer cute but inexpensive maternity clothes?

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Monthly Habit

We had our 15 1/2 week check-up this past Monday. It was just a quick visit so not much to report. Baby D's (as I have taken to calling him/her) heartbeat was very strong on the monitor. As we listened the sound of the beat kept being interupted by a loud thud. I guess my face displayed my dismay/confusion b/c the doctor explained that it was just the baby moving. I am taking his word for it b/c I still can't feel anything but if it is true, man this kid moves alot! In the mere minute we listened Baby D kicked or squirmed 7-8 times. If that keeps up I think I have some uncomfortable times ahead once I can feel Baby D moving.

We talked about screening for birth defects which really unsettled Curtis. We decided we are not going to screen b/c basically it wouldn't change anything. I'm not willing to do the amniocentesis and termination is out of the question to us. I just feel like we wouldn't gain anything from the test but worry if the percentages came out high. Plus, from everything I have read the screenings are very unreliable and I don't want to worry for nothing.

The Doctor also asked if we had any feeling on what Baby D's gender might be. Since the beginning of my pregnancy I have unintentionally refered to Baby D in the third person as male. I'm not sure if that is really a feeling or just me psyching myself out. I don't have a preference but I think I didn't want to get attacted to the idea of pink dresses, tiny shoes and cute bows. I mean, it's much more acceptable for a little girl to be "boyish" than a little boy to be "girlish." So, I picked out gender neutral baby items and even some things that borderlined on "boyish" b/c it's okay for a girl to wear blue. I will be happy no matter what Baby D turns out to be. It's a win-win situation as far as I am concerned. :)

So, mark your calendars for Oct. 26th! :)

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Baby Love Bump

15 weeks 1 day. I'm excited to see a difference. I wasn't sure there was going to be much of a change. Most of my clothes still fit fine but a few are getting a little tight, which of course are mostly work clothes. Maybe it's a sign I should stop working. ;)

I am super tired all the time now. It takes all I've got to make it through class or work. Homework is not going so well. And when I do sleep I feel just as tired when I wake-up as I did when I laid down. I know this is only going to get worse so I'm going to have to figure something out.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Is that you baby or just dinner?

I read today that between weeks 16-22 in pregnancy you can start feeling the baby move. I can't wait for this! I am going into week 16 today and I am hoping to feel something soon. My only worry is I will feel the baby but I won't realize it since apparently for some people it feels like gas. That is a horrifying thought! What if I think the baby is gas? or worse what if I think gas is the baby? :(

Monday, September 20, 2010

Just a quote...

"Having a child is surely the most beautifully irrational act that two people in love can commit," - Billy Cosby

I saw this quote on The Paper Mama today and I couldn't have said it better.

p.s. our doctor's appointment got rescheduled for next Monday. 

Baby Shower Fun!

On Saturday, my husband and I went to a couple's baby shower for Drew and Carissa from The Undaily Daven. It was such a blast! We stayed until well after midnight. The idea was that the guys would play poker while the ladies did the usual baby fare in the next room. At the end of the night we all just congregated in the living room to visit. The baby games were a lot of fun and it was great to have an excuse to talk about nothing but babies. :) I am looking forward to more baby showers, mine and other friends that are expecting. I took a lot of pictures but I am giving sharing rights to Carissa. Hopefully she will post some soon...


We have a doctor's appointment this afternoon! I will try to update tonight but tomorrow at the latest. :)

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Baby Bums

I have realized in the last few months that I have much to learn about babies. Even, simple things like diapering your baby's bum are huge debates in the Mommy world and believe me everyone has an opinion. I have not "picked" a side but I have decided to at least attempt to use cloth diapers for our baby. Here are some facts that really made me think...

Fact: According to research, it can take between 250-500 YEARS for one disposable diaper to decompose.

Fact: On average a baby uses 8 diapers daily. That is 2920 diapers a year.

I bought diapers today at my local Wal-Mart for a friends baby shower. It cost me about $9 dollars for a pack of 36. Which according to the fact above means it will last for about 3 1/2 days. Which means you are spending an average of $18 a week. One bumGenius cost $17.95 retail and you only need about 18 diapers total for one child. So, within a matter of 4 1/2 months of disposable diapering you can cloth diaper your child from birth to potty training. I find that pretty impressive and everyone is trying to do what's better for the environment these days. So, I thought, why not?  I can stock up before the baby is born and I even found a website (diapers.com) that allows you to make a gift registry that includes a large selection of cloth diapers.

I've also found diaperswappers.com, a cloth diapering community. The forums are very informative and encouraging. I found a woman with a similar schedule to mine but even more stressful since she is a single mom. She said that cloth diapering has been great for her as long as she sticks to her washing schedule. I was glad to find someone other than a stay-at-home mom who was managing it.

Curtis is less than enthusiastic about my choice but he can't really deal with poo anyway at this point. He also didn't really understand how it works. He has agreed to at least try since more than likely this responsibility will ultimately fall to me.

I did a little shopping at Spot's Corner the other day and found these adorable diapers. They are newborn size which means super tiny. I'm not sure how well they will work but I am going to give them a try. From everything I've read it's good to experiment with different kinds and brands to find what works for you. So, we will see.
Sorry for the super long post. I guess I just had a lot to get off my chest. I will say with cloth diapering you have to keep an open mind because now a days we're not talking about your mom's cloth diapers. These look and act like disposables and these are just one of the many many cloth options out there.

Friday, September 17, 2010

What a wonderful world...

Since Baby Love already has a bear and moose friend I thought what better way to decorate the nursery than with woodland creatures. We don't have much of a budget and so I will be getting creative and crafty but that doesn't mean I can't dream...

I found this amazing bookshelf from etsy seller Graphic Spaces. It's a little out of my budget at $1,500 but it sure is magical. The bookends are also super cute and slightly more affordable (if I do a little saving) at $80. I am in love with the hedgehog!

First Bump Pic?

I took this last week at 13 weeks 3 days. I'm not really "showing" that much yet. I'm already a little chubby in the middle but I decided that I had to start documenting somewhere...I'm going to try and take a picture once a week in that same outfit. That way the changes will be more noticeable.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Baby Love @ 10 weeks 6 days

Baby Love's New Friends


From left to right: Yosemite the bear from Daddy, Bobi from Mommy, Damoose from Auntie Hi

True Story

Today, according to my droid pregnancy app, I am 14 weeks and 2 days pregnant. I am feeling much better than I have the past few months, even though I've had a stomach virus this week. I am at least interested in food again and not throwing up on myself. Speaking of that, I have a funny story. At least it is now.

A few weeks ago Curtis wanted to get Mexican food for dinner. It was late and the only place open was Taco Bell. I hadn't really had any morning sickness at this point so I wasn't staying away from spicy food yet...so, after we get home from eating I start feeling a little sick. I decide to start making my way to the bathroom b/c I'm not sure yet if I am going to throw up. As I walk into the bathroom I have the urge to do what feels like a cough. I luckily had just leaned over the toilet when I "coughed" and actually threw up. Unfortunately, since I was expecting to cough I wasn't exactly aimed well. The liquid hit the side of the toilet seat and ricocheted back all over me. I continued to throw up for several minutes with better aim before Curtis knocked on the door to ask if I was alright.

He has a thing about vomit. He can't handle it. It makes him throw up. So, he says very meekly thru the door. "Are you alright?" to which I anwser, "No, I just threw up all over myself," again thru the door, "You know I can't help you, right?", wanting to cry I respond, "I know."

I decided at this point the easiest way to clean myself was to just get in the bath tub, clothes and all. This was when I decided I was not going to be one of those women who loves being pregnant.  

Dearest You,

Well, it seems I was right in my prediction. I have to written as I intended. I have had time to get over the shock and I am now just excited. We have begun to tell people about you. All three of your aunts are very excited to meet you. I think your Auntie Hi is the most. She actually called me crying after receiving my text message about you. She is in Maine at summer camp for the month. She texted me just the other day that she bought you a stuffed moose toy. We also told Gigi (Grami's mommy) and she told Apo (Grami's daddy) since he is in the Philippines right now. Gigi said he called her twice this week asking if it was alright to tell your great aunt Shari and her family. He is obviously excited too. :)

It took us a whole week before we could see your Daddy's parent to tell them. Your Nana said she wasn't surprised since I have been sick lately and I didn't try any of the wine she brought back from her Texas wine country tour on 4th of July. Everyone is looking forward to meeting you little one, especially Daddy and I.

Your Daddy keeps teasing me by calling me "Myrtle" as in Fertile Myrtle. We weren't trying very long before I got pregnant. In fact, we weren't really trying at all, but we weren't weren't trying and it only took one month. I think it had more to do with God, than me.

I have been thinking lately of all the things I want to do with and show you. We are going to have such fun, the three of us. I would love to give you the world but I realize I have limitations but that doesn't mean I'm not going to try. I will tell you more later.

Love,
Mom
(July 21, 2010)

Dearest You,

I didn't start this journal in vain! You will be arriving (God bless) in nine months. :) I am so excited to meet you little one. We told your Grami tonight. She is very happy. I think she has been secretly wishing for you. I won't lie I am a little scared but mostly excited. I think I am still in shock so I will continue tomorrow once I have had time to digest this amazing news.

Love,
Mom
(July 7, 2010)

Dearest You,

It is a bit hard to decide if I am indeed "late" because my cycle is not exactly regular. I will buy a digital test on Thursday to know for certain. If it is indeed true, as I believe, than I will not have started this journal in vain. I will acknowledge now, in this first entry, that I am not a disciplined writer. I often start with the best of intentions but life has a way of distracting me.

I hope this journal will be different because I want to fill this notebook with letters to you. My mommy (your Grami) wrote a journal for me which was only one short entry. I was always curious to know my mommy before she became what she is to me, so I always found that journal disappointing. This is why I am starting this. I hope you are curious one day like I have been and that you will have this to give you answers.

Love,
Mom
(July, 6, 2010)

Starting a new...

Welcome to my pregnancy/soon-to-be-baby blog! I had originally intended to keep a pen and paper journal for our LO (little one), but that hasn't worked out so well. I started off great...I did better than my mother with her single entry in my baby journal but alas I still have so many memories that I have not documented. I am on the computer most of the day for school and so I thought, just maybe, I would be better at keeping up with a baby blog than I have at my baby journal. Here's to hoping! Tonight I plan to type up the few entries I have written. I intend this blog to be a letter to baby/ place to vent/ sharing of information. Once a week I plan to show a few of my favorite baby items, as well as post pics of things we buy/receive as gifts for our LO. So, I hope you will join me for this joyous/terrifying ride. :)

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