OK, maybe I'm not as ready for this as I thought. I can handle the blood, I can handle the pain, I can handle strange hospital smells... I can even handle pooing on the table if it comes to that. What I can't seem to manage is sitting in a room with other, more mature adults, next to my husband and watching close-up shots of vaginal deliveries without laughing. Or listening to women moan as they demonstrate La Maze breathing at 25 weeks. It just makes me think of how they got themselves in this place to begin with. And forget about maintaining my composure when the Doula instructed everyone to "relax the perineum and release all tension from it." With a husband like mine, there's simply no way to act maturely. And finally, I REALLY cannot keep from busting out in inappropriate hysterics when the narrator of the breastfeeding informational video, circa 1990, refers to the "areela". What the heck is that? Oh, you mean the areola? And is that a stuffed breast the lactation consultant is holding in her hand? Because those are the hugest areelas I've ever seen in my life.
So, God, I understand if you think perhaps you made a mistake allowing me to become a mom. I'll try harder to grow up and not snicker if I ever happen to see a woman's water break like Old Faithful as she lays spread eagle on a table. My life is kind of about 95% laughter and 5% seriousness and sometimes I have difficulty knowing when to pump up the serious factor. But I'll try. We certainly don't want to raise "that child" who points and giggles when her 5th grade teacher says "do it" or accidentally draws the torso of her stick figure a liiiiitle too long in the nether region. That would be embarrassing.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
10.28.08
Lots of updates...
Tomorrow is our child birth class, which I'm very excited about because I only have to work a half day! I'm also excited because Matt and I have such buys schedules right now that we have been going week-long stretches of barely seeing each other and this will be 4 straight hours of together time! How sad is that?! Nevermind that it will be full of vaginas and lactating breasts... belonging to other women. I dont even care, I get my sweetie for more than a quick smooch in passing.
Tomorrow I also have a massage after my chiro adjustment. I was ready to break up with my chiropractor until he pulled the ultimate Wild Card by offering me a massage at my next appointment. Hook, line and sinker.
We have an appointment for maternity photos on Sunday afternoon, thanks to my sweet friend Lori who I originally met last year as a parent of one of my students, but who has evolved into a dear neighbor, co-worker an church fellow. She does freelance photography, but has never done maternity photos. She offered to take newborn photos as a gift to Little Beansies once she arrives and went ahead and "hired" her to take maternity photos too. My friend Molly is going to take some outdoor photos in November, but just in case the weather is not conducive to outdoor photography, we'll have some studio pictures:) I am so excited! I'm thinking a big fat belly shot would go lovely on the living room wall, above the flat screen.
My 2 week appointments have begun! I did not pass my 1-hr glucose re-take, but only by 3 points (my level was 133) and my doctor uses 2 different charts. One says anything over 130 requires the 3-hour test, while the other says anything over 140. So really, I'm probably perfectly fine. For a moment I thought she wasn't going to make me take the 3 hour test, but I was oh so wrong. First thing Monday morning. But at least I'll be forced to sit and write my Thank You's, which may never happen if I'm not confined to a waiting room.
And finally, a dazzling photo of me post work, post sweeping rice, noodles, cardboard and ziplock bag shreds from the laundry room floor (Midas had a fun day!), and post dog walk in the subarctic, windy night. Enjoy the beauty of 30 week Katie.
I've decided in a few weeks I need to do a post of all my worst belly shots... seriously, there are some doozies that will get some good laughs. Stay tuned:)
Tomorrow is our child birth class, which I'm very excited about because I only have to work a half day! I'm also excited because Matt and I have such buys schedules right now that we have been going week-long stretches of barely seeing each other and this will be 4 straight hours of together time! How sad is that?! Nevermind that it will be full of vaginas and lactating breasts... belonging to other women. I dont even care, I get my sweetie for more than a quick smooch in passing.
Tomorrow I also have a massage after my chiro adjustment. I was ready to break up with my chiropractor until he pulled the ultimate Wild Card by offering me a massage at my next appointment. Hook, line and sinker.
We have an appointment for maternity photos on Sunday afternoon, thanks to my sweet friend Lori who I originally met last year as a parent of one of my students, but who has evolved into a dear neighbor, co-worker an church fellow. She does freelance photography, but has never done maternity photos. She offered to take newborn photos as a gift to Little Beansies once she arrives and went ahead and "hired" her to take maternity photos too. My friend Molly is going to take some outdoor photos in November, but just in case the weather is not conducive to outdoor photography, we'll have some studio pictures:) I am so excited! I'm thinking a big fat belly shot would go lovely on the living room wall, above the flat screen.
My 2 week appointments have begun! I did not pass my 1-hr glucose re-take, but only by 3 points (my level was 133) and my doctor uses 2 different charts. One says anything over 130 requires the 3-hour test, while the other says anything over 140. So really, I'm probably perfectly fine. For a moment I thought she wasn't going to make me take the 3 hour test, but I was oh so wrong. First thing Monday morning. But at least I'll be forced to sit and write my Thank You's, which may never happen if I'm not confined to a waiting room.
And finally, a dazzling photo of me post work, post sweeping rice, noodles, cardboard and ziplock bag shreds from the laundry room floor (Midas had a fun day!), and post dog walk in the subarctic, windy night. Enjoy the beauty of 30 week Katie.
I've decided in a few weeks I need to do a post of all my worst belly shots... seriously, there are some doozies that will get some good laughs. Stay tuned:)
Monday, October 27, 2008
10.27.08
I haven't done a belly pic in weeks and the reason is plain and simple. I look like heck by the time I get home from work and I really don't need to see a picture of myself looking like that. Maybe sometime this week.
And an update on the belly button... still an innie!
And an update on the belly button... still an innie!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
10.26.08
An update on the life of Little Beansies, from Momma's perspective:
LB is FULL of activity these days. I read that she is storing more fat on her little bod, which means she has more energy and strength to move faster and more often-- I can confirm this!
At least a couple times each day I'm able to look down and see my whole belly move like a wave pool. At my ultrasound last week, she was head down, facing towards my back, which would mean the movement I'm seeing in my "upper belly" is her little bottom! Yes, she is shaking her booty.
Yesterday I felt a kick of sorts all the way at the top of my "bump" (which is more basketball-like than bump-like), where my ribs should be (I couldn't tell you where the heck they actually are these days). This is the highest I've felt movement-- she's getting taller!!
Even though my baby girl appears full size in my mind and certainly FEELS full size in my belly, she is only 3 pounds and about the size of a squash right now. I imagine her inside my belly kicking with purpose and having lots of thoughts and rationale behind her actions-- really I imagine her as a little person, capable of so much more than is realistic. Once she's born it will be shickingly obvious just how helpless he really is. Her own little arms twitching will be enough to scare her out of a deep sleep, just like when you dream you're falling off the bed and you jerk yourself awake only find that you're nowhere near the edge of the bed, only you're a matter of HOURS old and don't know what the heck is going on in this bright, cold, loud world.
As I type this it feels like somoene is sawing logs, literally inside of me. I know she couldn't possibly be snoring, as snoring requires breathing oxygen and passing air through lungs, but that's exactly what it feels like. This is a new one, but just like everything else I wonder what exactly is going on in there.
Oh, Little Beansies, we are so excited to me you. Daddy and I commented on how you will be here in just 10 weeks now! Daddy thinks you'll be here a little early, since he arrived just 4 weeks from where you are today. What do you have planned for us, little girl? I hope you know how very much we love you. We pray constantly for you and are overwhelmed with joy that we get to take care of you and raise you to be an amazing person. I can't wait for your story to unfold, Beansie:)
LB is FULL of activity these days. I read that she is storing more fat on her little bod, which means she has more energy and strength to move faster and more often-- I can confirm this!
At least a couple times each day I'm able to look down and see my whole belly move like a wave pool. At my ultrasound last week, she was head down, facing towards my back, which would mean the movement I'm seeing in my "upper belly" is her little bottom! Yes, she is shaking her booty.
Yesterday I felt a kick of sorts all the way at the top of my "bump" (which is more basketball-like than bump-like), where my ribs should be (I couldn't tell you where the heck they actually are these days). This is the highest I've felt movement-- she's getting taller!!
Even though my baby girl appears full size in my mind and certainly FEELS full size in my belly, she is only 3 pounds and about the size of a squash right now. I imagine her inside my belly kicking with purpose and having lots of thoughts and rationale behind her actions-- really I imagine her as a little person, capable of so much more than is realistic. Once she's born it will be shickingly obvious just how helpless he really is. Her own little arms twitching will be enough to scare her out of a deep sleep, just like when you dream you're falling off the bed and you jerk yourself awake only find that you're nowhere near the edge of the bed, only you're a matter of HOURS old and don't know what the heck is going on in this bright, cold, loud world.
As I type this it feels like somoene is sawing logs, literally inside of me. I know she couldn't possibly be snoring, as snoring requires breathing oxygen and passing air through lungs, but that's exactly what it feels like. This is a new one, but just like everything else I wonder what exactly is going on in there.
Oh, Little Beansies, we are so excited to me you. Daddy and I commented on how you will be here in just 10 weeks now! Daddy thinks you'll be here a little early, since he arrived just 4 weeks from where you are today. What do you have planned for us, little girl? I hope you know how very much we love you. We pray constantly for you and are overwhelmed with joy that we get to take care of you and raise you to be an amazing person. I can't wait for your story to unfold, Beansie:)
Friday, October 24, 2008
10.24.08
My co-worker and his wife, who I mentioned several days ago, found out yesterday that the sac they'd been hoping would grow did not. She should have been 8 weeks, but the sac was still in the 5th week with no heartbeat:( She has a D&C scheduled for this morning and could use lots of prayer. They are a strong Christian family and feel at peace now that the question marks are gone and they can "move on", but no matter how strong you appear on the outside it burns, stings, and can warp you with pain on the inside. Please pray for Layne and Randy today, if you don't mind.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
10.23.08
I feel like such a criminal. I've never in my life been to court, yet I now have a subpeona to appear as a witness in a case involving one of my former students AND I just got a follow-up letter for jury duty (seriously, i'm "on call" or whatever from Sep.1-Dec.31, give me a break, that's a bit long, wouldn't you say?) for the exact same date. Two different counties, same time, don't think that's happening. I don't think I can legally be on a jury if I'm involved with another case. I've dealt with more police officers and detectives in the last few months than I even thought possible. I love my job:) (I really do actually love my job.)
Names.
A couple weeks ago I brought up our little girl having a mystery name and got some good guesses from readers!
Alayna
Jada
Lilyana
Sophie
Kaylee
Kayla
None are correct:) I won't even tell you if one is close! But Suzanne, I promise you Sophie is completely off limits. No worries:) It's kind of fun having a juicy little secret. People always ask the same series of questions when they first meet a pregnant woman:
When are you due?
Do you know what you're having?
Do you have a name picked out?
January 5th, a girl, and wouldn't you love to know!??!?!
Names.
A couple weeks ago I brought up our little girl having a mystery name and got some good guesses from readers!
Alayna
Jada
Lilyana
Sophie
Kaylee
Kayla
None are correct:) I won't even tell you if one is close! But Suzanne, I promise you Sophie is completely off limits. No worries:) It's kind of fun having a juicy little secret. People always ask the same series of questions when they first meet a pregnant woman:
When are you due?
Do you know what you're having?
Do you have a name picked out?
January 5th, a girl, and wouldn't you love to know!??!?!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
10.22.08
I got to my appointment with 2 minutes to spare, which is more than I was expecting as I had to deal with a "problem child" as I was getting ready to leave the office and then I forgot that I have to go through registration at the hospital (for evvvvverything... blood work, ultrasounds, the whole 9. Urgent Care is also there which means I've done this 3 times in the last 10 days. Which might explain why I have this many hospital bracelets... and this isn't all of them!)
So as I was waiting, my favorite ultrasound technician, Janet, came out to get me and I was so relieved to see her. I feel like she really cares about our family and we've built a nice rapport that makes me very comfortable with her. She was immediately concerned and didn't laugh when I told her the story. She told me I was doing the right thing and she was going to do a full scan since she had me there.
Right away, heart rate was fine, placenta was still in tact and posterior. Blood was pumping through the cord strongly and Little Beansies was snoozing away after her erratic 12 hour flailfest yesterday. In fact, our little girl was even sucking her thumb! Maybe we ought to start her orthodontics fund now. Screw college, she needs straight teeth:)
She is very low, but I'm only 5'2" so there isn't much else in the way of space for her to go, other than out! She weighs about 3 lbs and appears to be measuring in the 50th percentile, with an expected 59th percentile at birth. Right in the middle... we'll see!
I must admit I was scared last night. I had lots more cramping as the evening passed on and by bedtime I also had back pain-- the kind that, paired with abdominal cramping, is not good. This morning I woke up at 5:30 and did not feel movement until about 9:30, in the middle of the Juggler Bob assembly. Good timinng, Beanse.
So now we wait, relaxed and reassured, for the next 11 weeks! I'm not sure if my doctor does a 35 week ultrasound, which is OK if she doesn't. I can hold off for a few more weeks for the real deal:) Thank you, thank you, thank you, God for taking care of this little girl.
So as I was waiting, my favorite ultrasound technician, Janet, came out to get me and I was so relieved to see her. I feel like she really cares about our family and we've built a nice rapport that makes me very comfortable with her. She was immediately concerned and didn't laugh when I told her the story. She told me I was doing the right thing and she was going to do a full scan since she had me there.
Right away, heart rate was fine, placenta was still in tact and posterior. Blood was pumping through the cord strongly and Little Beansies was snoozing away after her erratic 12 hour flailfest yesterday. In fact, our little girl was even sucking her thumb! Maybe we ought to start her orthodontics fund now. Screw college, she needs straight teeth:)
She is very low, but I'm only 5'2" so there isn't much else in the way of space for her to go, other than out! She weighs about 3 lbs and appears to be measuring in the 50th percentile, with an expected 59th percentile at birth. Right in the middle... we'll see!
I must admit I was scared last night. I had lots more cramping as the evening passed on and by bedtime I also had back pain-- the kind that, paired with abdominal cramping, is not good. This morning I woke up at 5:30 and did not feel movement until about 9:30, in the middle of the Juggler Bob assembly. Good timinng, Beanse.
So now we wait, relaxed and reassured, for the next 11 weeks! I'm not sure if my doctor does a 35 week ultrasound, which is OK if she doesn't. I can hold off for a few more weeks for the real deal:) Thank you, thank you, thank you, God for taking care of this little girl.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
10.21.08
I'm home early after smashing my trucker belly into the steering wheel this morning... brilliant move on my part. I won't even tell you how it happened. Unfortunately it hurts and I've been having Braxton Hicks contractions at the "point of impact" all day, so here I am. I have an ultrasound tomorrow at 12:30 just to clear any damage.
Since Little Miss Beansies appears to have issues with me laying down (flailing about like a drama queen, which is cute-- even a little fun-- for a minute or so, but after 5 constant minutes, it gets a little nauseating), I have some time to post pictures from our first shower. Enjoy!
Since Little Miss Beansies appears to have issues with me laying down (flailing about like a drama queen, which is cute-- even a little fun-- for a minute or so, but after 5 constant minutes, it gets a little nauseating), I have some time to post pictures from our first shower. Enjoy!
Monday, October 20, 2008
10.20.08
Well no pictures yet... I'm just. too. tired. But they will be up this week! Just wanted to share that 2 Fridays ago I did the Glucose screening test and failed, boo hoo. Thankfully I realized that I took the test the same afternoon that I came down with Strep throat and fever/infection can affect the results so I quickly called the doctor back and asked if I could re-take the 1 hour before taking the 3 hour (which, mind you, is really 4 hours long. don't be fooled!)
I re-took the 1 hr test today in Logan instead of Lancaster and had the greatest experience!
1. Today I was given the option of "Sprite" or "Orange soda". In L'caster I was given "Sprite" only.
2. Today my "Sprite" was refrigerated... niiiiice and cold. In L'caster, room temp. Yuck.
3. Today I only had to drink half they bottle and they even poured it for me! In L'caster, the whole bottle and I had to pour my own stiff drink.
4. Today I was able to roam around the hospital at my leisure during the wait. In L'caster I was stuck in 1 boring waiting room.
5. Today I saw people I knew! Not so much in L'caster considering I was the only person there the entire hour.
6. Today? No pee. L'caster pee test. In a drug screening room (which means no running water... which means washing your hands in a separate room. YUCK! No safe place to put your purse, that's for sure.)
OK and now for the BEST part, I had to drop off a deposit check for Child Birth class in the Birth Center, somewhere I've never been. Once you pass through the doors, it's like entering Happyville! It is so stinking adorable! The nurses glide around with smiles on their faces and rainbows bursting from their ears:) I was ready to climb into a bed and check in for the next 11 weeks. I kind of can't wait:) We take the class next week and I really hope we get to tour the whole Birth Center so Matt can see. I'm pretty sure he'll be most excited that the cafeteria is about 15 steps away:)
So, here's to hoping for better test results this time around!
I re-took the 1 hr test today in Logan instead of Lancaster and had the greatest experience!
1. Today I was given the option of "Sprite" or "Orange soda". In L'caster I was given "Sprite" only.
2. Today my "Sprite" was refrigerated... niiiiice and cold. In L'caster, room temp. Yuck.
3. Today I only had to drink half they bottle and they even poured it for me! In L'caster, the whole bottle and I had to pour my own stiff drink.
4. Today I was able to roam around the hospital at my leisure during the wait. In L'caster I was stuck in 1 boring waiting room.
5. Today I saw people I knew! Not so much in L'caster considering I was the only person there the entire hour.
6. Today? No pee. L'caster pee test. In a drug screening room (which means no running water... which means washing your hands in a separate room. YUCK! No safe place to put your purse, that's for sure.)
OK and now for the BEST part, I had to drop off a deposit check for Child Birth class in the Birth Center, somewhere I've never been. Once you pass through the doors, it's like entering Happyville! It is so stinking adorable! The nurses glide around with smiles on their faces and rainbows bursting from their ears:) I was ready to climb into a bed and check in for the next 11 weeks. I kind of can't wait:) We take the class next week and I really hope we get to tour the whole Birth Center so Matt can see. I'm pretty sure he'll be most excited that the cafeteria is about 15 steps away:)
So, here's to hoping for better test results this time around!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
10.19.08
So. Very. Tired.
We had a surprisingly nice weekend with Matt's family at their annual Oktoberfest family reunion. This year's theme was Little Beansies, which was kicked off with a really cute shower on Saturday afternoon... lots of jelly beans and beanie decor! Matt's cousin Stephanie is super crafty and made the most adorable decorations. Our friend Beth also came... Beth and her husband were our very first married friends when we lived in Wooster, they got married one week after us, and we've kept in touch over the years, which isn't easy to do! It was really nice seeing her... and she is now expecting also:) It's funny (and a little embarrassing) to think about the way we used to spend our Friday nights and now here we are about to become moms and dads. Yowza.
Once Matt's cousin emails me pictures, I'll be sure to post them, along with some from last weekend's 'hood shower. Have a great week!!!!!!!
We had a surprisingly nice weekend with Matt's family at their annual Oktoberfest family reunion. This year's theme was Little Beansies, which was kicked off with a really cute shower on Saturday afternoon... lots of jelly beans and beanie decor! Matt's cousin Stephanie is super crafty and made the most adorable decorations. Our friend Beth also came... Beth and her husband were our very first married friends when we lived in Wooster, they got married one week after us, and we've kept in touch over the years, which isn't easy to do! It was really nice seeing her... and she is now expecting also:) It's funny (and a little embarrassing) to think about the way we used to spend our Friday nights and now here we are about to become moms and dads. Yowza.
Once Matt's cousin emails me pictures, I'll be sure to post them, along with some from last weekend's 'hood shower. Have a great week!!!!!!!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
10.16.08
Just a quick update that Layne and her little sprout are doing fine!!! Praise God, the ultrasound showed she was right where she needs to be (still too early for a heartbeat) and this may just be the way things are this pregnancy. Not fun for Layne and Randy, but a huge relief nevertheless.
Also, can you believe it's October 16th? I had a coupon that expired on 10/6 and had to stop and really think about whether that date had passed yet yesterday. Time is flyyyyin' by!
Also, can you believe it's October 16th? I had a coupon that expired on 10/6 and had to stop and really think about whether that date had passed yet yesterday. Time is flyyyyin' by!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
10.15.08
I found out yesterday that the co-worker who lent me her gobs of maternity clothes had a miscarriage on Monday night. She's had one before and helped me through mine-- I'm so sad that she is going through this nightmare again. On Monday she was so giddy and was asking me lots of questions and now I know why... she hadn't told anyone she was pregnant.
THEN yesterday another co-worker whose husband also works in our program left work to go to the hospital because she was bleeding. She'd been spotting a lot since day 1, so I'm hoping she's OK and this is just "normal" for this pregnancy, but I'm scared for her. I'll find out more this morning. Just Monday she told me if they have a girl, they'll have to name her Faith because that is what they'd been hanging onto for the past couple weeks.
The first co-worker has 3 kids and the other has 2, so I am happy they have their families to help them through this, but it doesn't take away any of the sadness. Please pray for both of them and for all the other women who have suffered losses, are going through them right now and who may experience one in the future. And just remember that of all the women you run into today, at least one of them-- probably more-- is going through some sort of fertility or conception struggle.
****************
P.S. I switched to moderated comments, so if your comments don't show up right away, that's why:) Sorry, Lisa!!
THEN yesterday another co-worker whose husband also works in our program left work to go to the hospital because she was bleeding. She'd been spotting a lot since day 1, so I'm hoping she's OK and this is just "normal" for this pregnancy, but I'm scared for her. I'll find out more this morning. Just Monday she told me if they have a girl, they'll have to name her Faith because that is what they'd been hanging onto for the past couple weeks.
The first co-worker has 3 kids and the other has 2, so I am happy they have their families to help them through this, but it doesn't take away any of the sadness. Please pray for both of them and for all the other women who have suffered losses, are going through them right now and who may experience one in the future. And just remember that of all the women you run into today, at least one of them-- probably more-- is going through some sort of fertility or conception struggle.
****************
P.S. I switched to moderated comments, so if your comments don't show up right away, that's why:) Sorry, Lisa!!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
10.13.08
28 weeks! That's 7 months... woweeeee!
In an attempt to avoid having to clear out the laundry baskets that usually reside in the place where I stand for my belly shots, I tried to have Matt take the picture in the sunroom. Most people would know better than to stand in front of a sunny window, but then again, I'm not most people. The end result was a slightly grainy shadowy figure of dun, dun, dun... PREGGO WOMAN!
Our neighbor, owner of the penises, just gave us a CD of all the pictures from yesterday. Matt and I had a good laugh zooming in on all my chins and my feet progressively swelling out of my flip flops as the gifts were opened... I'll be sure to post those soon! (And for the record, it was mostly me laughing and Matt being unsure of whether it was safe to laugh with me. Smart man:))
In an attempt to avoid having to clear out the laundry baskets that usually reside in the place where I stand for my belly shots, I tried to have Matt take the picture in the sunroom. Most people would know better than to stand in front of a sunny window, but then again, I'm not most people. The end result was a slightly grainy shadowy figure of dun, dun, dun... PREGGO WOMAN!
Our neighbor, owner of the penises, just gave us a CD of all the pictures from yesterday. Matt and I had a good laugh zooming in on all my chins and my feet progressively swelling out of my flip flops as the gifts were opened... I'll be sure to post those soon! (And for the record, it was mostly me laughing and Matt being unsure of whether it was safe to laugh with me. Smart man:))
Sunday, October 12, 2008
10.12.08
Just a quick update to say how much fun the shower was! By the end of all the gift opening, I cried through an emotional shpeel about how thankful we are to have a whole neighborhood full of support (every single neighbor came... TWENTY SEVEN people!). I don't know how I managed to get it all out, but when I looked up all the ladies were crying. I hope they all know how much we appreciate each of their thoughtful gifts and just the fact that they were there for us and this little sweet pea.
We were blessed with many sweet gifts, but here are a few quick picture of the handmade ones and some of the nursery (in a very rough, very unorganized, very not anywhere near finished state) My favorite is the white crocheted set with the small, medium, and large booties!
We were blessed with many sweet gifts, but here are a few quick picture of the handmade ones and some of the nursery (in a very rough, very unorganized, very not anywhere near finished state) My favorite is the white crocheted set with the small, medium, and large booties!
10.12.08
The meds are working! Last night by dinner I could barely swallow and got a little worried that this was not a good sign (after 3 doses of amox), but this morning I am feeling better! I think the night shift came in and it was a mixture of fatigue, talking too much, eating dinner, etc. Nights are always worse when you're sick. I'm so glad I'm feeling better now.
Today is our neighborhood baby shower. When Betty & Betty, our neighbors down the street, sat me down on their swing and whipped out their calendars and legal pads to schedule this shin dig, I was completely surprised. I knew the Bettys had been working on some projects (booties, blankets and hats) for the baby, but a shower? They went around pointing to all the neighboring houses telling me who does what-- "Janet knits, Vera, Dorothy, June and Margie quilt, Ellen crochets..." and I started to get excited. This was totally up my alley! Minimal registry gifts, all heartfelt creations, and sentimental gifts that our little girl can pass on to her little ones someday (even though Mom probably won't be able to part with them so she'll pack them away and lug the boxes around for decades)? I can't wait!
I'll take lots of pictures, including some updated nursery pics for my super creative girlriend Christyn (whose wedding we went to in Kentucky over the summer) who has been asking lots of questions lately... hmmmm;)
Today is our neighborhood baby shower. When Betty & Betty, our neighbors down the street, sat me down on their swing and whipped out their calendars and legal pads to schedule this shin dig, I was completely surprised. I knew the Bettys had been working on some projects (booties, blankets and hats) for the baby, but a shower? They went around pointing to all the neighboring houses telling me who does what-- "Janet knits, Vera, Dorothy, June and Margie quilt, Ellen crochets..." and I started to get excited. This was totally up my alley! Minimal registry gifts, all heartfelt creations, and sentimental gifts that our little girl can pass on to her little ones someday (even though Mom probably won't be able to part with them so she'll pack them away and lug the boxes around for decades)? I can't wait!
I'll take lots of pictures, including some updated nursery pics for my super creative girlriend Christyn (whose wedding we went to in Kentucky over the summer) who has been asking lots of questions lately... hmmmm;)
Saturday, October 11, 2008
10.11.08
1st trimester: Cold
2nd trimester: UTI
3rd trimester: Strep
Thank goodness there's not a 4th trimester.
And praise God for Urgent Care and Amoxicillan. I have a baby shower to look pretty for tomorrow! And an apppointment with my secret lover (Dr. Hamilton, the chiro) on Monday. There's no time for this nonsense.
The doctor asked me if I was pregnant when he started checking me over. I usually tell people "no" at this point (or if they ask if we have names picked out my mom and I came up with Beulah Grace- since Grace is the new Marie- to start telling them... so far I've only tried it once and I was with my mom and we both laughed so hard the lady told my mom to be careful or she might wet her pants!). When he asked how far along I was, I reverted to the old-fashioned "months" vs. "weeks"... and by my quick calculations I'm just about 7 months!
SEVEN MONTHS! In Matt's "Dad Pregnancy" book, this month is titled "Entering the Home Stretch". Well hot dog!
And in other news, we may have a name for this little girl! And believe it or not, it was inspired by my little friend Austin, who is the sweetest little guy I've ever met. He has Asperger's and can be a handful, but in between his wild moments, he just grabs ahold of your heart. I met him about 2 years ago when he was getting ready to go to Kindergarten. When he sees me he touches my belly and asks if there's still a baby in there, why she's still in there, if it's still a girl (hopefully!), and what her name is. His name suggestion last week was "T-Rex". I asked him if he could think of something girlier and he gave me his sister's name, which is a name I love, but is pretty trendy. When I told Matt the story, he said "I like that!" and since then we've kind of tentatively decided we might have a name! (How's that for non-commital?!) But now it's a secret! Any guesses?!??!?! It's not Ella, Emma, any form of Madison or Madeline, Grace... or Beulah.
2nd trimester: UTI
3rd trimester: Strep
Thank goodness there's not a 4th trimester.
And praise God for Urgent Care and Amoxicillan. I have a baby shower to look pretty for tomorrow! And an apppointment with my secret lover (Dr. Hamilton, the chiro) on Monday. There's no time for this nonsense.
The doctor asked me if I was pregnant when he started checking me over. I usually tell people "no" at this point (or if they ask if we have names picked out my mom and I came up with Beulah Grace- since Grace is the new Marie- to start telling them... so far I've only tried it once and I was with my mom and we both laughed so hard the lady told my mom to be careful or she might wet her pants!). When he asked how far along I was, I reverted to the old-fashioned "months" vs. "weeks"... and by my quick calculations I'm just about 7 months!
SEVEN MONTHS! In Matt's "Dad Pregnancy" book, this month is titled "Entering the Home Stretch". Well hot dog!
And in other news, we may have a name for this little girl! And believe it or not, it was inspired by my little friend Austin, who is the sweetest little guy I've ever met. He has Asperger's and can be a handful, but in between his wild moments, he just grabs ahold of your heart. I met him about 2 years ago when he was getting ready to go to Kindergarten. When he sees me he touches my belly and asks if there's still a baby in there, why she's still in there, if it's still a girl (hopefully!), and what her name is. His name suggestion last week was "T-Rex". I asked him if he could think of something girlier and he gave me his sister's name, which is a name I love, but is pretty trendy. When I told Matt the story, he said "I like that!" and since then we've kind of tentatively decided we might have a name! (How's that for non-commital?!) But now it's a secret! Any guesses?!??!?! It's not Ella, Emma, any form of Madison or Madeline, Grace... or Beulah.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
10.9.08
I was a slave to my job today... no time for the glucose test. I have no choice but to get it done tomorrow, which is funny since tomorrow will be even worse than today and I'm flying completely solo. Not a soul around to help out. But hey, I've got priorities and this child is way more important than the j.o.bizzle. Although the j.o.bizzle does make shopping for the child more fun:) And possible:)
10.9.08
After 3 months of hip pain that seems to be getting worse each night, I finally went to a chiropractor yesterday. I've never gone to one before and even though I'm not getting any work done until Monday, I was really impressed with all the technology available. I'm anxious to find out what all the scans reveal:)
Speaking of revealing, I almost died when I was asked to undress from the waist up and don a pale yellow gown. Let me rephrase that-- a pale yellow SEE THROUGH gown. There are pregnant parts of me that could probably show through a black wool coat at this point, let alone a pale yellow gown. Thank God the therapist was also pregnant. How embarrasing.
My pregnant coworker told me that she saw a chiropractor through her first 2 pregnancies, but not her third and she noticed a huge difference in labor. I'm really hoping this is the case:) Allign me, please!
Also, today is my 1 hour glucose test for gestational diabetes. I feel fine, so I'm not too concerned (not that I have any idea whether I'd not feel fine if I do have it) but I'm not really looking forward to drinking the yucky stuff for the test.
Speaking of revealing, I almost died when I was asked to undress from the waist up and don a pale yellow gown. Let me rephrase that-- a pale yellow SEE THROUGH gown. There are pregnant parts of me that could probably show through a black wool coat at this point, let alone a pale yellow gown. Thank God the therapist was also pregnant. How embarrasing.
My pregnant coworker told me that she saw a chiropractor through her first 2 pregnancies, but not her third and she noticed a huge difference in labor. I'm really hoping this is the case:) Allign me, please!
Also, today is my 1 hour glucose test for gestational diabetes. I feel fine, so I'm not too concerned (not that I have any idea whether I'd not feel fine if I do have it) but I'm not really looking forward to drinking the yucky stuff for the test.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
10.6.08
Today is the day I would have either been bringing my first child into the world, holding my first child in my arms or gearing up for the big moment. Yes, I'm sad. I'm very sad. I spent the weekend with my mom and took today off from work. If I let myself, I'll cry all day... not because I don't love and appreciate the life growing inside of me now, but simply because I miss what could have been. What I wanted so badly was never in God's plan for Matt and me, which is very difficult to accept.
I came home to a gorgeous vase of white roses and pink lillies from my dear friend, Andrea who never forgets and never reduces anyone's pain. I know some family and friends were ready for me to be "over" this sadness weeks after it happened. But when you lose a baby, whether you met that little one, felt kicks or only knew its soul for a moment, you don't ever get over it. Thanks for never forgetting my sadness or making me feel like it was time to move on:)
October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Yes, it really exisits. THAT many women and couples have lost their precious little ones. It's nice to have a day when we're "allowed" to feel the pain and sadness, no matter how long ago it happened. Matt's aunt had 6 miscarriages, was blessed with 2 beautiful daughters who are in high school and college now. Her pain is still there, decades later.
My friend and labor buddy, Suzie, was due yesterday, October 5th and, like me is expecting again. I know the day was not an easy one for her either.
Another brave woman, Stacy, will deliver her son, Isaac, tomorrow and every second is in God's hands. Her time with her baby boy may be very short, but please pray for a miracle or His reassurance on her heart, whichever way this goes.
And on a happier note, my friend Lisa is experiencing some very promising pregnancy symptoms! But as anyone who has gone through the misery of trying to conceive knows, all hopes are backed closely with guarded doubt. Please pray that if this is the right month, she and her husband will be holding a beautiful healthy JUNE baby this summer!!!
I came home to a gorgeous vase of white roses and pink lillies from my dear friend, Andrea who never forgets and never reduces anyone's pain. I know some family and friends were ready for me to be "over" this sadness weeks after it happened. But when you lose a baby, whether you met that little one, felt kicks or only knew its soul for a moment, you don't ever get over it. Thanks for never forgetting my sadness or making me feel like it was time to move on:)
October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Yes, it really exisits. THAT many women and couples have lost their precious little ones. It's nice to have a day when we're "allowed" to feel the pain and sadness, no matter how long ago it happened. Matt's aunt had 6 miscarriages, was blessed with 2 beautiful daughters who are in high school and college now. Her pain is still there, decades later.
My friend and labor buddy, Suzie, was due yesterday, October 5th and, like me is expecting again. I know the day was not an easy one for her either.
Another brave woman, Stacy, will deliver her son, Isaac, tomorrow and every second is in God's hands. Her time with her baby boy may be very short, but please pray for a miracle or His reassurance on her heart, whichever way this goes.
And on a happier note, my friend Lisa is experiencing some very promising pregnancy symptoms! But as anyone who has gone through the misery of trying to conceive knows, all hopes are backed closely with guarded doubt. Please pray that if this is the right month, she and her husband will be holding a beautiful healthy JUNE baby this summer!!!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
10.2.08
One of my co-workers surprised me today with a "Mommy Mix" she made for a few of us pregnant women at work:) It is so adorable and full of the sweetest "Mom & Dad" songs. I love it so much and am so thankful for the sweet little things our friends and family are doing for our litte family. I really think it's the smallest touches that sometimes mean the most! Kind of like when...
A 1st grader named Callie loves to give me hugs and I loovvve my Callie hugs! She's usually very quiet and will rarely say anything... just wraps her arms around my waist and smiles.
Today she came at me with her arms open, wrapped 'em around me and put her ear on my belly. When I told her the baby was doing a lot of kicking and to look out for a boomer, she looked up, smiled a toothless smile, and laid her ear back down to listen. I think Little Beansies liked that. Momma sure did:)
A 1st grader named Callie loves to give me hugs and I loovvve my Callie hugs! She's usually very quiet and will rarely say anything... just wraps her arms around my waist and smiles.
Today she came at me with her arms open, wrapped 'em around me and put her ear on my belly. When I told her the baby was doing a lot of kicking and to look out for a boomer, she looked up, smiled a toothless smile, and laid her ear back down to listen. I think Little Beansies liked that. Momma sure did:)
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
10.1.08
My school has a coffee shop in it and, truthfully, they make surprisingly good beverages. If anything, the coffee is good, only costs a buck and doesn't require leaving the house 5 minutes early like Starbucks does.
One of our substitute teachers runs the "Connections Cafe" in the mornings and I've been pestering her about offerring a pumpkin spice beverage so I don't have to feel so guilty about carrying a Starbucks cup around the school every morning. She's been telling me they're working on getting the right supplies for it, and they'd have something pumpkinny any day now.
WELL. Guess what was sitting on my desk when I walked in this morning? A decaf pumpkin spice latte! It was so delicious that I kept drinking it even after the school photographer accidentally took a sip in between pictures. She panicked because she was getting over a cold, but I poo poo'ed her and drank away:)
Thank you, Sherry. You made my whole day:)
Mmmmm mmmm mmmmm...
One of our substitute teachers runs the "Connections Cafe" in the mornings and I've been pestering her about offerring a pumpkin spice beverage so I don't have to feel so guilty about carrying a Starbucks cup around the school every morning. She's been telling me they're working on getting the right supplies for it, and they'd have something pumpkinny any day now.
WELL. Guess what was sitting on my desk when I walked in this morning? A decaf pumpkin spice latte! It was so delicious that I kept drinking it even after the school photographer accidentally took a sip in between pictures. She panicked because she was getting over a cold, but I poo poo'ed her and drank away:)
Thank you, Sherry. You made my whole day:)
Mmmmm mmmm mmmmm...
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