What's in a Name?
Ok – so by now the news is out. Our beautiful baby girl's name is Amelia Daniele Lisowe. So, how did we arrive at that name? Well – funny story. Let me walk you through it.
One day about 18 months ago, Brad and I were watching some show or movie or something and one of the characters was named Amelia. We both immediately started talking about the name and said that if our next baby was a daughter, we'd name her that.
Well – fast forward to May of this year and we found out we were having a daughter. For Brad, the deal was sealed as soon as the ultrasound showed the absence of man parts. For me, it took a little longer.
Earlier this year I started researching our family tree and in doing so, found out that one of my relatives from back in the day was named Sophia. She was married to "The King" – the same guy all the males in my family for generations have been named after. So, I fell in love with the name Sophia and have always loved the story of "The King."
Well – once we found the sex, Brad mandated that we wouldn't talk about it until July 30th. That was more to bug me than anything else. He also didn't want to tell anyone once we had decided – that was more to bug everyone else, I think.
One night in late June I had had it, and brought up my 2 name choices (Amelia and Sophia) during date night. He said that there was only one name on his list and lucky for me it was Amelia. We toyed with the idea of naming her Sophia as a middle name, but we already had one perfect middle name, or so we thought. So, I tucked Sophia back into the back of my mind and Amelia was born.
Now to the middle name. We always knew that our little girl's middle name would be Ann. It's a family name on both his and my side. That's it – it was settled. Or so we thought. As time wore on, I started thinking more and more about the name Daniele.
Some folks may not know the story, but Daniele was my given middle name. When Brad and I went to the courthouse to get our marriage license, I wasn't prepared to have to decide what my new legal name would have to be. I knew I didn't want 4 names (keeping both my maiden and middle name), but giving either up seemed like a betrayal to my parents. After what seemed like hours, I finally decided my new legal name would be Lauren Benson Lisowe (one of the few traditional things about me). That being said, giving our daughter the middle name of Daniele will always allow her to have a piece of me with her (of course until she grows up and is faced with the same decision that I had to make).
So – what's in a name? A whole lot of thought, family, and compromise, but I think this name is perfect! And if we needed another sign – the main character in the princess diaries is named Amelia. She has the exact same Faberge carousel in the movie that our Amelia has in her nursery, so I take that as a sign that Amelia is the perfect fit.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Why would you ask that?
It always amuses me when people ask questions that they know the answers to… This morning my doctor did another ultrasound to find out that the baby is still breech. She also confirmed what I know that her head is tucked under one side of my ribs and her feet are tucked under the other. She then asked if it hurt? I'm sure the bemused look I gave her went unnoticed, but really? Did you need to ask me that? I have a 9.5 pound baby hanging out on my bladder (I'll get to that later) and her head is poking against my ribs… I told her it hadn't exactly been a real comfortable 2 weeks. As far as the bladder thing – that's the baby's new favorite thing – to try and see how many times she can poke me in the bladder in the span of an hour. She's getting very good at it! I am not quite sure what it is she's poking me with since her hands and feet are both by my ribs, so I'm figuring perhaps she has a pokey butt =)
C-Section is scheduled for 4pm next Monday (Sept 27th) and the Lisowe family is getting ready. We're spending a "quiet" week at home with Braden and trying to balance getting him ready for baby sister and spoiling him in his last week as an only child. He's very excited about the reported "present" that he gets from baby sister. He's also very excited about being a big brother and finally getting to meet her. He still talks to her a lot and got a kick out of it last week when I showed him where her booty was in my belly.
Brad and I are doing well and pretty much 100% settled in the new house. I can't speak for Brad, but I love it here! I love the neighborhood (not that we didn't love our last one) and the amount of room we all have here. It's a little more work in terms of the yard and upkeep, but worth it in the long run! The nursery is all decorated, and the only thing I have left to do is finish putting her name on the wall. I made cute little circles with each letter of her name on them, but Brad won't let me hang them up until she is officially here =) I will give you the initials though – her initials are officially ADL (slight change from what we had thought they would be – it's been a long journey for me on the middle name – which I can explain once she gets here!).
As this may be the last post for a while, thank you all for taking this very special journey with us. I feel totally unprepared at times just because the first time around I had read every book and knew exactly what we were supposed to do at all times. This time I figure we'll just wing it. Brad seems to remember a lot more about what we did with Braden than I do, so hopefully he won't get too sleep deprived and can keep me on the right track! We'll send official news and pictures from the hospital next week! Hugs and kisses to everyone!
C-Section is scheduled for 4pm next Monday (Sept 27th) and the Lisowe family is getting ready. We're spending a "quiet" week at home with Braden and trying to balance getting him ready for baby sister and spoiling him in his last week as an only child. He's very excited about the reported "present" that he gets from baby sister. He's also very excited about being a big brother and finally getting to meet her. He still talks to her a lot and got a kick out of it last week when I showed him where her booty was in my belly.
Brad and I are doing well and pretty much 100% settled in the new house. I can't speak for Brad, but I love it here! I love the neighborhood (not that we didn't love our last one) and the amount of room we all have here. It's a little more work in terms of the yard and upkeep, but worth it in the long run! The nursery is all decorated, and the only thing I have left to do is finish putting her name on the wall. I made cute little circles with each letter of her name on them, but Brad won't let me hang them up until she is officially here =) I will give you the initials though – her initials are officially ADL (slight change from what we had thought they would be – it's been a long journey for me on the middle name – which I can explain once she gets here!).
As this may be the last post for a while, thank you all for taking this very special journey with us. I feel totally unprepared at times just because the first time around I had read every book and knew exactly what we were supposed to do at all times. This time I figure we'll just wing it. Brad seems to remember a lot more about what we did with Braden than I do, so hopefully he won't get too sleep deprived and can keep me on the right track! We'll send official news and pictures from the hospital next week! Hugs and kisses to everyone!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
It's Settled!
It's Settled!
Well – It's pretty much settled. Baby A will come out via a c-section on Monday, September 27th. Other than being upside down, she looked very healthy during her ultrasound yesterday. She is also gigantic! I seriously almost fell off the table when the doc told me she weighed 8lbs 15 ozs – and that was at 37 weeks and 1 day! I also couldn't tell the number to any of my other mommy friends without laughing. Now I'm kinda glad she's upside down! She also has her head in one side of my ribcage and her feet in the other for maximum levels of discomfort.
We took our ultrasound pix home and showed Braden. He seemed excited, but he was more excited when I showed him where baby sister's head and booty were. He spent the evening talking to her head and yelling at her booty. We've been getting him ready for what's coming up in the next few weeks and he even has a special surprise for anyone who drops by to see his new baby sister. He's been such a big helper boy since we've moved and is really growing up…some days!
As for me – apparently some things haven't changed from one pregnancy to another. I've got carpal tunnel again in my right hand which causes it to fall asleep about 5-6 times per hour. Nothing that won't go back to normal – just very annoying. I did also have the first person comment on my lack of a wedding ring last week sometime. I long for the day (in two weeks) when I can get it back on! I miss seeing it! Other than that and some minor discomfort and a total lack of being able to sleep for more than 2 hours at a time, I'm doing great. Weight is good (I think I'm at around 33 pounds gained total) and blood pressure continues to be good, so now we're in the home stretch.
The nursery is all ready and I can say I can't be more proud of how it turned out. It is pretty much exactly what I wanted for her! I did have the doc confirm yesterday that she is indeed a girl so we don't have any surprises. The one sad thing is that I'm not sure she'll fit into the outfit I wanted to bring her home in. Normally no big deal, but it's the one I wore home from the hospital and it's just not looking like I can stuff a 10 pound baby in there… Maybe I can let her wear the dress as a belly shirt =)
In house news, we are officially all settled in. Brad got our pictures hung up (and despite what he tells you it did not take him 4 hours) and we had our open house over the weekend. I had so much fun showing off all of the hard work to our friends and family. Now we've got a huge to do list, but what home owner doesn't? I think Brad is going to spend his last weekend as a 1-kid-dad getting his workshop put together so he has a place to retreat =)
Back to the doc next week and unless something changes between now and then, we're on track for a 9/27 delivery. Thanks for all the well wishes and kind notes over the past week. Brad and I feel much more confident about the c-section now than we did at this time last week. See you next week!
Well – It's pretty much settled. Baby A will come out via a c-section on Monday, September 27th. Other than being upside down, she looked very healthy during her ultrasound yesterday. She is also gigantic! I seriously almost fell off the table when the doc told me she weighed 8lbs 15 ozs – and that was at 37 weeks and 1 day! I also couldn't tell the number to any of my other mommy friends without laughing. Now I'm kinda glad she's upside down! She also has her head in one side of my ribcage and her feet in the other for maximum levels of discomfort.
We took our ultrasound pix home and showed Braden. He seemed excited, but he was more excited when I showed him where baby sister's head and booty were. He spent the evening talking to her head and yelling at her booty. We've been getting him ready for what's coming up in the next few weeks and he even has a special surprise for anyone who drops by to see his new baby sister. He's been such a big helper boy since we've moved and is really growing up…some days!
As for me – apparently some things haven't changed from one pregnancy to another. I've got carpal tunnel again in my right hand which causes it to fall asleep about 5-6 times per hour. Nothing that won't go back to normal – just very annoying. I did also have the first person comment on my lack of a wedding ring last week sometime. I long for the day (in two weeks) when I can get it back on! I miss seeing it! Other than that and some minor discomfort and a total lack of being able to sleep for more than 2 hours at a time, I'm doing great. Weight is good (I think I'm at around 33 pounds gained total) and blood pressure continues to be good, so now we're in the home stretch.
The nursery is all ready and I can say I can't be more proud of how it turned out. It is pretty much exactly what I wanted for her! I did have the doc confirm yesterday that she is indeed a girl so we don't have any surprises. The one sad thing is that I'm not sure she'll fit into the outfit I wanted to bring her home in. Normally no big deal, but it's the one I wore home from the hospital and it's just not looking like I can stuff a 10 pound baby in there… Maybe I can let her wear the dress as a belly shirt =)
In house news, we are officially all settled in. Brad got our pictures hung up (and despite what he tells you it did not take him 4 hours) and we had our open house over the weekend. I had so much fun showing off all of the hard work to our friends and family. Now we've got a huge to do list, but what home owner doesn't? I think Brad is going to spend his last weekend as a 1-kid-dad getting his workshop put together so he has a place to retreat =)
Back to the doc next week and unless something changes between now and then, we're on track for a 9/27 delivery. Thanks for all the well wishes and kind notes over the past week. Brad and I feel much more confident about the c-section now than we did at this time last week. See you next week!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The things we do for our kids!
I have rug burns on the tops of my toes and I can barely see over my desk at work today… Why you ask? I'm trying to get the baby to cooperate and turn her little booty around so she can come out in a few weeks!
I felt the need to document the lengths I am going to so that I can remind the baby of this when she turns 15 and hates me… I'll remind her that I sat on an exercise ball at work for 2 days looking like a fool every time someone walked around my office. I'll remind her ever so gently that I crawled on all 4s at 8 months pregnant and then sat in what can only be described as a yoga pose gone horribly wrong because she was being stubborn. I'll remind her that while performing said motions that I got rug burns on the tops of my toes! And chances are she'll just call me a dork and keep hating me =)
But as parents, it's our jobs to do everything we can to make our children's lives the best they can be – even before they get here. We found out yesterday at our appointment that the baby is breech right now so after doing some research I've found some "exercises" that may help her get turned the right way. At this point I'm pretty much willing to try anything because as great as a free tummy tuck sounds, not being able to pick up Braden or the baby for 6 weeks afterward doesn't sound appealing at all.
So, we've got another ultrasound next Monday and a doc appointment with my regular doctor on Tuesday at which point we'll have to make a decision about what comes next. As much as I'm not a fan of having a c-section, I have bigger issues with trying to have a breech baby naturally. Way too many ways things can go wrong. So, keep us in your thoughts and prayers and we'll let you know how things go next week! Think flippy thoughts!
I felt the need to document the lengths I am going to so that I can remind the baby of this when she turns 15 and hates me… I'll remind her that I sat on an exercise ball at work for 2 days looking like a fool every time someone walked around my office. I'll remind her ever so gently that I crawled on all 4s at 8 months pregnant and then sat in what can only be described as a yoga pose gone horribly wrong because she was being stubborn. I'll remind her that while performing said motions that I got rug burns on the tops of my toes! And chances are she'll just call me a dork and keep hating me =)
But as parents, it's our jobs to do everything we can to make our children's lives the best they can be – even before they get here. We found out yesterday at our appointment that the baby is breech right now so after doing some research I've found some "exercises" that may help her get turned the right way. At this point I'm pretty much willing to try anything because as great as a free tummy tuck sounds, not being able to pick up Braden or the baby for 6 weeks afterward doesn't sound appealing at all.
So, we've got another ultrasound next Monday and a doc appointment with my regular doctor on Tuesday at which point we'll have to make a decision about what comes next. As much as I'm not a fan of having a c-section, I have bigger issues with trying to have a breech baby naturally. Way too many ways things can go wrong. So, keep us in your thoughts and prayers and we'll let you know how things go next week! Think flippy thoughts!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Gigantor Strikes Again!
So – week 35 check up and the baby is big – and getting bigger… She is measuring between 2.5 and 3 weeks big. Ahh! She is also sitting pretty low already. Doc pretty much told me that she doesn't expect us to go full term. Not sure if I'm bummed or relieved.
Otherwise baby and I are both happy. Blood pressure is good for me – heart beat is good for her. We're to the point of going to the doc once a week, so next appointment is next Tuesday. We'll know more then about growth of the baby, etc.
In other news, the nursery is almost 100% done. We've sent the rocking chair back to Arkansas for some minor surgery (it fell out of the truck during the move!) and we've got to get the rails for the bottom of the crib, but other than that the walls are all decorated and her clothes are all washed and ready to wear. I even put together her diaper bag today! I've started packing our bag for the hospital, but it won't be finished probably until the day we go into the hospital. That is certainly a change from Braden… with him my bag was packed in the second trimester =)
Braden is getting more excited about his baby sister. Wants to know where she is all the time. He is getting adjusted to the new house more and more every day. He even helped decorate his room.
Brad and I are getting settled in, too. We're pretty much down to hanging pictures on the walls, which I would say is a pretty big accomplishment. I think I can speak for the whole family in saying that we made the right decision and will love this house for years to come. Now we just have to sit and wait for the rest of our little family to get here.
Otherwise baby and I are both happy. Blood pressure is good for me – heart beat is good for her. We're to the point of going to the doc once a week, so next appointment is next Tuesday. We'll know more then about growth of the baby, etc.
In other news, the nursery is almost 100% done. We've sent the rocking chair back to Arkansas for some minor surgery (it fell out of the truck during the move!) and we've got to get the rails for the bottom of the crib, but other than that the walls are all decorated and her clothes are all washed and ready to wear. I even put together her diaper bag today! I've started packing our bag for the hospital, but it won't be finished probably until the day we go into the hospital. That is certainly a change from Braden… with him my bag was packed in the second trimester =)
Braden is getting more excited about his baby sister. Wants to know where she is all the time. He is getting adjusted to the new house more and more every day. He even helped decorate his room.
Brad and I are getting settled in, too. We're pretty much down to hanging pictures on the walls, which I would say is a pretty big accomplishment. I think I can speak for the whole family in saying that we made the right decision and will love this house for years to come. Now we just have to sit and wait for the rest of our little family to get here.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Hot! Hot! Hot!
Hot, Hot, Hot!
So, no big shocker to anyone south of Kentucky, but IT'S HOT! As some of my pregnant friends can confirm, it's even hotter when you're pregnant! I'm talking if I step outside for more than 60 seconds I'm covered in sweat. Hormones are not my friend. To make it worse, it is the hottest summer on record in Atlanta. Joy!
But, enough complaining and onto more exciting things. We officially closed on our house last Friday and began moving in. Unfortunately both air conditioners were broken so please refer to paragraph 1 for my feelings on this! Other than that we're all super excited to finally be moving in. I know it was less than a month, but it has seemed like forever! We got a TON moved over the weekend and are bringing in reinforcements next weekend to help with the rest of the stuff. Hopefully the A/C units will be fixed by then so we can actually start sleeping there.
Braden has his new room all picked out and I found his Thomas stickers for his walls in a box yesterday so I plan on putting them up during my lunch today to surprise him after school. He's still very excited about baby sister and wants to know where she is at all times. I guess he got over her kicking him a few weeks ago =) I'm still not sure how the sharing situation is going to go, but I think he's going to make one heck of a big brother. He's been so attentive during the pregnancy I'm hoping it will continue after she is born.
Had another doc appointment today. I'm in my 31st week. Baby A is wiggling right now to say hello (it could have something to do with the donut I ate 20 minutes ago), but overall she is much calmer than Braden was. Braden tended to move all the time, and she tends to go more in bursts and then be still for hours at a time. Her growth seems to have slowed down, but she is still growing big (she's only 1 week ahead now instead of 2). I'm planning on moving her stuff over today and getting the nursery set up (sort of). Another appt in 2 weeks so I'll have another update then.
So, no big shocker to anyone south of Kentucky, but IT'S HOT! As some of my pregnant friends can confirm, it's even hotter when you're pregnant! I'm talking if I step outside for more than 60 seconds I'm covered in sweat. Hormones are not my friend. To make it worse, it is the hottest summer on record in Atlanta. Joy!
But, enough complaining and onto more exciting things. We officially closed on our house last Friday and began moving in. Unfortunately both air conditioners were broken so please refer to paragraph 1 for my feelings on this! Other than that we're all super excited to finally be moving in. I know it was less than a month, but it has seemed like forever! We got a TON moved over the weekend and are bringing in reinforcements next weekend to help with the rest of the stuff. Hopefully the A/C units will be fixed by then so we can actually start sleeping there.
Braden has his new room all picked out and I found his Thomas stickers for his walls in a box yesterday so I plan on putting them up during my lunch today to surprise him after school. He's still very excited about baby sister and wants to know where she is at all times. I guess he got over her kicking him a few weeks ago =) I'm still not sure how the sharing situation is going to go, but I think he's going to make one heck of a big brother. He's been so attentive during the pregnancy I'm hoping it will continue after she is born.
Had another doc appointment today. I'm in my 31st week. Baby A is wiggling right now to say hello (it could have something to do with the donut I ate 20 minutes ago), but overall she is much calmer than Braden was. Braden tended to move all the time, and she tends to go more in bursts and then be still for hours at a time. Her growth seems to have slowed down, but she is still growing big (she's only 1 week ahead now instead of 2). I'm planning on moving her stuff over today and getting the nursery set up (sort of). Another appt in 2 weeks so I'll have another update then.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Big Baby A
Big Baby A
Well – we've picked a name. I can't tell you what it is, but we've got it (sorry if I posted that in the last blog but I can't remember much of anything these days!). It starts with 'A'. Now the only thing I have to figure out is if I want to hyphenate the middle name or just stick with one… For now I'm leaning toward sticking with one, but that decision may come down to the wire…
Anyway – doc appointment was good today. Gained a little too much weight, but other than that mom and baby are both good. Baby is still growing big. She measuring about a week and a half big right now. Doctor Johnson says that is still within the norm. She's still very active. I swear the other night she was trying to break free!
Lots of people keep asking me how Braden is doing with the baby thing and he's doing as well as a two year old can be doing. I'm not sure he quite comprehends yet, but he is very loving with "baby sister" and gives her lots of love and kisses inside mommy's belly. We tried to have the talk with him about baby sister coming home to live with us and he was open to that, for as much as he understood.
Other big changes coming up, we're moving! That's right. We found a house (and a renter for our current house). The house is just up the road from where we are now and honestly I can't think of a more perfect place to raise our family. Brad and I are both very excited and we're getting Braden there. I've made him a few things for his new room and we keep talking about his new playroom so I think he'll be ok with the move.
Our renter happens to be my mom, who is moving to Atlanta from Texas to be closer to Braden and Baby A. It's funny how life sort of all comes together at certain moments, but she really is helping us out by renting our house for a little while. We're excited to have her here for other reasons too and if we could just get North Arkansas and Michigan a little closer to Georgia then we'd be all set =)
Just packing as much as I can over the next several weeks before my moving part of the job is done. We close July 30th and plan to move the next weekend. I'll keep everyone updated and for sure send nursery photos as soon as I get it set up. Next appointment is in 3 weeks =)
Well – we've picked a name. I can't tell you what it is, but we've got it (sorry if I posted that in the last blog but I can't remember much of anything these days!). It starts with 'A'. Now the only thing I have to figure out is if I want to hyphenate the middle name or just stick with one… For now I'm leaning toward sticking with one, but that decision may come down to the wire…
Anyway – doc appointment was good today. Gained a little too much weight, but other than that mom and baby are both good. Baby is still growing big. She measuring about a week and a half big right now. Doctor Johnson says that is still within the norm. She's still very active. I swear the other night she was trying to break free!
Lots of people keep asking me how Braden is doing with the baby thing and he's doing as well as a two year old can be doing. I'm not sure he quite comprehends yet, but he is very loving with "baby sister" and gives her lots of love and kisses inside mommy's belly. We tried to have the talk with him about baby sister coming home to live with us and he was open to that, for as much as he understood.
Other big changes coming up, we're moving! That's right. We found a house (and a renter for our current house). The house is just up the road from where we are now and honestly I can't think of a more perfect place to raise our family. Brad and I are both very excited and we're getting Braden there. I've made him a few things for his new room and we keep talking about his new playroom so I think he'll be ok with the move.
Our renter happens to be my mom, who is moving to Atlanta from Texas to be closer to Braden and Baby A. It's funny how life sort of all comes together at certain moments, but she really is helping us out by renting our house for a little while. We're excited to have her here for other reasons too and if we could just get North Arkansas and Michigan a little closer to Georgia then we'd be all set =)
Just packing as much as I can over the next several weeks before my moving part of the job is done. We close July 30th and plan to move the next weekend. I'll keep everyone updated and for sure send nursery photos as soon as I get it set up. Next appointment is in 3 weeks =)
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
We've got a Live one…
We've got a Live one…
Sorry I didn't have a chance to update you after my last doc appt, but we left the next day for vacation.
Anyway, all is well with mom and baby. I told the doc that she was a week and a day ahead of schedule and the doctor just shot me a sideways glance… Now let me tell you something… Sideways glances are good from your significant other, not from your doctor. Especially when that sideways glance involves something that will be exiting a very small hole in your body in the not too near future! So needless to say I'm not expecting baby girl to stay in until her due date. I have nicknamed her Gigantor for the meantime =)
On a more fun note, she is super active now! Still pretty much at regular intervals (thank you for that!), but more often during the intervals and more active when she's active. Brad has gotten to feel her (she must know I'm talking about her because she just kicked my belly button!) a few times. He poked her in the head the other day because she wasn't moving for him and she then proceeded to kick back for the next 4 hours. Note to self – do not poke the baby in the head! We tried to get Braden to feel her, but he wasn't too keen on it yesterday. Oh well.
I also found out some great news when I got back from vacation yesterday – Tabitha is having a boy! For those of you who don't know, we went through our first pregnancies together and her daughter is 5 weeks older than Braden. Now she's due 5 weeks after me and having a boy. Our two little perfect pairs!
Vacation was a blast. Baby cause minor discomfort after I slid down waterslides for an hour, but other than that felt great! Braden had a blast seeing everyone and sleeping in his "special bed" his grandpa made. We also learned on vacation that Braden can escape from the pack n play so that is no longer a viable containment method for us =( We put him down for a nap one day and half an hour later he proudly proclaimed from the top of the stairs "I'm out daddy!" That was fun!
I guess there's no other news for now. Enjoying some much needed downtime after the past several months. Will keep everyone informed!
PS - We're putting an offer in on a house this week!
Sorry I didn't have a chance to update you after my last doc appt, but we left the next day for vacation.
Anyway, all is well with mom and baby. I told the doc that she was a week and a day ahead of schedule and the doctor just shot me a sideways glance… Now let me tell you something… Sideways glances are good from your significant other, not from your doctor. Especially when that sideways glance involves something that will be exiting a very small hole in your body in the not too near future! So needless to say I'm not expecting baby girl to stay in until her due date. I have nicknamed her Gigantor for the meantime =)
On a more fun note, she is super active now! Still pretty much at regular intervals (thank you for that!), but more often during the intervals and more active when she's active. Brad has gotten to feel her (she must know I'm talking about her because she just kicked my belly button!) a few times. He poked her in the head the other day because she wasn't moving for him and she then proceeded to kick back for the next 4 hours. Note to self – do not poke the baby in the head! We tried to get Braden to feel her, but he wasn't too keen on it yesterday. Oh well.
I also found out some great news when I got back from vacation yesterday – Tabitha is having a boy! For those of you who don't know, we went through our first pregnancies together and her daughter is 5 weeks older than Braden. Now she's due 5 weeks after me and having a boy. Our two little perfect pairs!
Vacation was a blast. Baby cause minor discomfort after I slid down waterslides for an hour, but other than that felt great! Braden had a blast seeing everyone and sleeping in his "special bed" his grandpa made. We also learned on vacation that Braden can escape from the pack n play so that is no longer a viable containment method for us =( We put him down for a nap one day and half an hour later he proudly proclaimed from the top of the stairs "I'm out daddy!" That was fun!
I guess there's no other news for now. Enjoying some much needed downtime after the past several months. Will keep everyone informed!
PS - We're putting an offer in on a house this week!
Friday, June 4, 2010
More Baby Pix!
Overjoyed today. Had our second ultrasound and baby girl is doing great! Spine, brain, and heart all look perfect! When the nurse came in, she must have been sleeping (the baby – not the nurse) because she didn’t move around much. However, when the doc came in, she was all sorts of active. It was fun because I could feel it and see it! We got some great pics that you'll see at the bottom.
Not so shocking is that she's big just like her brother. We have an official due date of 10/3, but she is measuring 1 week and 1 day bigger than that (putting an estimated due date at 9/25). It's funny because 4 weeks ago she was measuring exactly at 10/3. She weighs almost 1.5 lbs right now. I'm sure Doctor Johnson will keep an eye on her growth just like she did with Braden. Hopefully she'll have a small head like Braden did, too =)
Update on the rest of the family – Braden is doing great and enjoying summer! He loves dirt, bugs, and all of the other things little boys are supposed to love! He's having a blast with his friends at school and here at home, too. Brad and I are doing well and almost done with getting the house ready. Maybe one more day of work. It's going on the market today so think good thoughts. We both have very mixed feelings about leaving this house and this neighborhood, but at the end of the day both agree we need the space.
Now that the house is done, I've started working on the baby's room. I sewed her blanket for the crib the other night. It turned out super cute! I'll try to send pictures soon. It's light pink and green with flowers and lady bugs and a link pink ruffle on the sides. I am very pleased with how it turned out. I've got a couple of more blankets to make and then I'll dive into the wall hangings. I think I've decided I'm going to do 2d bubbles. I found some super cute fabric so my plan is to cut out some foam and cover it with the polka dot fabric to hang on the falls. We shall see how it turns out. I've also got an idea for a lamp and a memory board. Now all I need is the time and energy to get it all done! I promise pictures sometime…
Here's the ultrasound pix…
First one is the profile and bottom one is the baby pointing up toward mommy =)
First one is another profile. Second is the face.
The third and fourth are each of her feet
Fifth and 6th are another profile and face.
Not so shocking is that she's big just like her brother. We have an official due date of 10/3, but she is measuring 1 week and 1 day bigger than that (putting an estimated due date at 9/25). It's funny because 4 weeks ago she was measuring exactly at 10/3. She weighs almost 1.5 lbs right now. I'm sure Doctor Johnson will keep an eye on her growth just like she did with Braden. Hopefully she'll have a small head like Braden did, too =)
Update on the rest of the family – Braden is doing great and enjoying summer! He loves dirt, bugs, and all of the other things little boys are supposed to love! He's having a blast with his friends at school and here at home, too. Brad and I are doing well and almost done with getting the house ready. Maybe one more day of work. It's going on the market today so think good thoughts. We both have very mixed feelings about leaving this house and this neighborhood, but at the end of the day both agree we need the space.
Now that the house is done, I've started working on the baby's room. I sewed her blanket for the crib the other night. It turned out super cute! I'll try to send pictures soon. It's light pink and green with flowers and lady bugs and a link pink ruffle on the sides. I am very pleased with how it turned out. I've got a couple of more blankets to make and then I'll dive into the wall hangings. I think I've decided I'm going to do 2d bubbles. I found some super cute fabric so my plan is to cut out some foam and cover it with the polka dot fabric to hang on the falls. We shall see how it turns out. I've also got an idea for a lamp and a memory board. Now all I need is the time and energy to get it all done! I promise pictures sometime…
Here's the ultrasound pix…
First one is the profile and bottom one is the baby pointing up toward mommy =)
First one is another profile. Second is the face.
The third and fourth are each of her feet
Fifth and 6th are another profile and face.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Rants and Raves
Starting today with a rant, but ending on a good note. But, before the rant – baby girl is alive and kicking! ALL THE TIME! She kicks way more than I remembered Braden kicking (but perhaps I just forgot what he did). She tends to kick in the morning and then at night, but not too much from about 2-6 or 7pm. Anyway – I have another ultrasound next Friday morning so I'm excited about that. Next appt. with our doctor is June 15th, but right now all is well.
Ok, so for my rant – maternity clothes. I know I spend way too much time on the blog talking about them, but I'm in them a lot these days! Where did all of the cheap Maternity clothes go? Let's be real… I don't spend all that much money on my "real" wardrobe, so the thought of spending hundreds and hundreds on a maternity wardrobe irritates me to no end. I was lucky enough to have my mom and Brad's mom help me out with my summertime maternity wardrobe earlier this year, so that has been nice.
But – Wal Mart no longer sells maternity, Target, JCP, Babies R Us, Kohls, etc all have exactly 2 racks in their maternity sections. Leaving me two options – 1) shop at the high end stores or 2) drive all over God's creation trying to find the two simple items I needed (leggings and a swim suit). I chose option 2. Target, thank goodness, had my leggings and I'm loving them, but I literally went to 8 stores in search of a maternity swimsuit under $45. I FINALLY found one on clearance at the 8th store I went to. Madness! I am just wondering where all of the pregnant women I see walking around get their clothes… They must all either be willing to spend a boatload of money OR make their own clothes because I promise they aren't getting them anyplace else!
So, enough of the rant. I have to end this wonderful start to a holiday weekend blog on a high note. I have noticed lately that Braden is in what I call the "fascination stage". He is fascinated and amused by literally everything. Yesterday he and Brad spent time galloping around the kitchen and you would have thought that they had just been to see Adam Sandler live the way Braden was laughing. He shrikes with glee every time he runs through a bubble or finds a worm. I wonder though, when did we lose that? I miss being amazed by things like that and loving life that much. I am going to make an effort over the next several months to pattern my life more after Braden's and less like my sulky co-workers. I encourage you to do the same and get back to the "fascination stage".
Enjoy your holiday weekends! We'll keep you updated!
Ok, so for my rant – maternity clothes. I know I spend way too much time on the blog talking about them, but I'm in them a lot these days! Where did all of the cheap Maternity clothes go? Let's be real… I don't spend all that much money on my "real" wardrobe, so the thought of spending hundreds and hundreds on a maternity wardrobe irritates me to no end. I was lucky enough to have my mom and Brad's mom help me out with my summertime maternity wardrobe earlier this year, so that has been nice.
But – Wal Mart no longer sells maternity, Target, JCP, Babies R Us, Kohls, etc all have exactly 2 racks in their maternity sections. Leaving me two options – 1) shop at the high end stores or 2) drive all over God's creation trying to find the two simple items I needed (leggings and a swim suit). I chose option 2. Target, thank goodness, had my leggings and I'm loving them, but I literally went to 8 stores in search of a maternity swimsuit under $45. I FINALLY found one on clearance at the 8th store I went to. Madness! I am just wondering where all of the pregnant women I see walking around get their clothes… They must all either be willing to spend a boatload of money OR make their own clothes because I promise they aren't getting them anyplace else!
So, enough of the rant. I have to end this wonderful start to a holiday weekend blog on a high note. I have noticed lately that Braden is in what I call the "fascination stage". He is fascinated and amused by literally everything. Yesterday he and Brad spent time galloping around the kitchen and you would have thought that they had just been to see Adam Sandler live the way Braden was laughing. He shrikes with glee every time he runs through a bubble or finds a worm. I wonder though, when did we lose that? I miss being amazed by things like that and loving life that much. I am going to make an effort over the next several months to pattern my life more after Braden's and less like my sulky co-workers. I encourage you to do the same and get back to the "fascination stage".
Enjoy your holiday weekends! We'll keep you updated!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
It's a... GIRL!
May 10, 2010
So, I'm going to stop starting every blog with "I'm a slacker". Let's just all agree that I'm a slacker when it comes to the blog and move on. I do have good reason to have been a slacker this time, but you'll see below.
So, for any of you that haven't heard – IT'S A GIRL!!!!! Needless to say I'm over the moon excited. I had steeled myself for a boy so when we heard the news I cried! I didn't cry when we found out what Braden was, but I guess that is because it was the first and I knew I wanted one of each so the fact that he was a boy was a bonus. With this one, I cried for sure. She is healthy and content to hang out at the bottom of my belly right now. We go back June 4th for another ultra sound. Yippee!
With Braden I had the nursery picked out before we knew the sex. With this one I've changed my mind no less than 3 times per day for the last week. I have finally decided on a nursery fabric and theme. It is going to be mainly bright pinks and greens with flowers and lady bugs. It is super cute! I'm also making a balloon bouquet out of different fabrics to hang on the wall and a name hanging once we figure out what that's going to be.
And as for the name – we don't have one yet, but even once we do, no one will know it until the day she is born. That is Brad's small piece of info that he gets to hold on to. He has told me I can release the first letter for those who need it for embroidery reasons. We have decided on a middle name and pretty much narrowed the first name down to two names. One is a family name (though I won't tell you whose family) and one is not. Neither is a common name so you probably wouldn't ever guess =)
That being said I'm feeling good (other than crazy hormones) and the back pain is pretty much gone. At least the constant back pain is gone, which is nice.
We are working feverishly to get the house ready to put on the market by June 1st. We have also recently made the decision to start house hunting. Obviously our preference would be for our house to sell and then we buy a new one, but that was stressing me out (and in turn stressing Brad out) so we have slightly changed directions. Pretty much we want an offer on a new house by August time frame. It was just too stressful for me not to know where I am bringing a baby home from the hospital to. I've got our first appt set up with our realtor on Thursday to see 2 houses. Will keep you all updated.
Now back to baby. So far I have only bought her 6 outfits and those were all consignment outfits so I feel very restrained! I've got fabric to make 2 blankets (not the nursery bedding) and I got one small thing for the wall. For me having known for over a week I feel very restrained =)
Talk to you all soon. We've got a busy rest of the month and an even busier June!
May 19, 2010
So is it sad that it's been so long since I posted a blog that I forgot my password? Ahh. Anyway, it's another double addition, but this one will be short.
First – I'm feeling well still. I seem to have exploded over the weekend and am not loving that. My back is also starting to hurt when I sit in one place too long, but other than that – I'm good.
Baby seems to still be doing well. I've got an appointment on Friday. Hopefully I'll get my iron levels checked because I think I'm a little low again. One more pill each morning won't kill me though!
I guess that’s about it for the update. We're busy, busy, busy getting the house ready to put on the market and looking at new houses to buy. Such an exciting time! Braden is reading his big brother book and trying to get the hang of things!
Will check in soon!
So, I'm going to stop starting every blog with "I'm a slacker". Let's just all agree that I'm a slacker when it comes to the blog and move on. I do have good reason to have been a slacker this time, but you'll see below.
So, for any of you that haven't heard – IT'S A GIRL!!!!! Needless to say I'm over the moon excited. I had steeled myself for a boy so when we heard the news I cried! I didn't cry when we found out what Braden was, but I guess that is because it was the first and I knew I wanted one of each so the fact that he was a boy was a bonus. With this one, I cried for sure. She is healthy and content to hang out at the bottom of my belly right now. We go back June 4th for another ultra sound. Yippee!
With Braden I had the nursery picked out before we knew the sex. With this one I've changed my mind no less than 3 times per day for the last week. I have finally decided on a nursery fabric and theme. It is going to be mainly bright pinks and greens with flowers and lady bugs. It is super cute! I'm also making a balloon bouquet out of different fabrics to hang on the wall and a name hanging once we figure out what that's going to be.
And as for the name – we don't have one yet, but even once we do, no one will know it until the day she is born. That is Brad's small piece of info that he gets to hold on to. He has told me I can release the first letter for those who need it for embroidery reasons. We have decided on a middle name and pretty much narrowed the first name down to two names. One is a family name (though I won't tell you whose family) and one is not. Neither is a common name so you probably wouldn't ever guess =)
That being said I'm feeling good (other than crazy hormones) and the back pain is pretty much gone. At least the constant back pain is gone, which is nice.
We are working feverishly to get the house ready to put on the market by June 1st. We have also recently made the decision to start house hunting. Obviously our preference would be for our house to sell and then we buy a new one, but that was stressing me out (and in turn stressing Brad out) so we have slightly changed directions. Pretty much we want an offer on a new house by August time frame. It was just too stressful for me not to know where I am bringing a baby home from the hospital to. I've got our first appt set up with our realtor on Thursday to see 2 houses. Will keep you all updated.
Now back to baby. So far I have only bought her 6 outfits and those were all consignment outfits so I feel very restrained! I've got fabric to make 2 blankets (not the nursery bedding) and I got one small thing for the wall. For me having known for over a week I feel very restrained =)
Talk to you all soon. We've got a busy rest of the month and an even busier June!
May 19, 2010
So is it sad that it's been so long since I posted a blog that I forgot my password? Ahh. Anyway, it's another double addition, but this one will be short.
First – I'm feeling well still. I seem to have exploded over the weekend and am not loving that. My back is also starting to hurt when I sit in one place too long, but other than that – I'm good.
Baby seems to still be doing well. I've got an appointment on Friday. Hopefully I'll get my iron levels checked because I think I'm a little low again. One more pill each morning won't kill me though!
I guess that’s about it for the update. We're busy, busy, busy getting the house ready to put on the market and looking at new houses to buy. Such an exciting time! Braden is reading his big brother book and trying to get the hang of things!
Will check in soon!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
17 weeks appointment
So I heard my morning show DJ say something I think it pretty prolific this morning. He has 2 younger children and mentioned that every action he takes or doesn't take towards his children will affect branches of his family tree for generations to come.
When I first heard this, I thought – Ludacris! Then when I started thinking about it, it makes sense. How many studies have been published that children who were abused grow up to be abusers, or children of domestic violence often continue the cycle with their own children? And on the other hand, how many children who grown up in wonderful families go on to have happy, normal families of their own?
Now some people might think that is a scary situation to be in – that your actions – good or bad – can shape your family for years and decades to come. I think it is an amazing and awesome responsibility and gladly accept the challenge.
Of course, some days it is easier said than done! We make it our first priority to raise Braden (and peanut) in a safe, nurturing environment. But beyond that, what is our responsibility? We are teaching him manners and I take no greater pride than when adults tell me that my 2 year old tells them thank you. We teach him how to enjoy life – both the simple and exciting things. We are working to teach him patience and in the meantime trying to learn it ourselves. We teach him that hitting is not a way to solve things by not using that method for discipline. Not that I see anything wrong with it, but we learned very early on that he mimicked our actions and started hitting us and other children.
I think some people are afraid to bear children into the world we live in today because it is a scarier place than when we were kids. We face oil shortages, child predators, school shootings, environmental issues, and the list goes on. But how exciting is it that I can the opportunity to change that world starting with 2 children – my own. They say some teachers have an impact that stay with children forever, but how much more true is that for parents? I am excited at the prospect of being able to teach my children the way I'd like the world to be – a courteous, non-violent, wonderful world. That doesn't mean I put blinders on them, but I can change this world – even if it is a small step at a time.
Anyway, I know this is a bit chipper – maybe it's the hormones, but I just wanted to share my excitement with you!
16 week Checkup
Ok – so I'm not sure if I've shared this with all of you, but I'm making my "sex" prediction now. I'm pretty sure it's a boy. Don't ask me why – I just am. In the beginning I really, really wanted a girl, but now that it's almost time to find out, I am becoming more and more excited just about finding out and more and more comfortable with the idea of having 2 boys.
Anyway, had my almost 17 week appointment last Friday (April 23rd) and all was well with mommy and baby. My blood pressure is super great and the doc even said she was "proud" of my weight management.
She and I also got into a very humerous discussion about how I'm a weird (my words not hers) preggo woman. Example – most women's allergies get worse when they are pregnant or have a baby. Mine have almost cured themselves. I still have occasional attacks (mainly when I'm visiting relatives) but at home – nada. I went from twice a week – could not drive – attacks to nothing. Then there is the eye color. After I had Braden my eyes turned more green than blue. Now that I'm pregnant again, my eyes are back to blue. Then there is the teeth thing. Most women's teeth get better after they deliver – I never had a single tooth problem (other than braces) in my life until after I delivered Braden. Now that I'm pregnant again – 1st cavity. Go figure!
Anyway, it's just funny how different things are and you don't realize it until you compare notes!
Next doc appointment with my doc is May 21st…and by then we'll know the sex! I got May 3rd to find out the sex! At this point Brad and I just want to know! Braden still wants a doggie so I'm pretty sure we can rule out that he's getting what he wants out of this =)
One more fun announcement (I may have said this already but I can't remember anything to save my life these days!) We're putting the house on the market at the end of May. Wish us luck!
When I first heard this, I thought – Ludacris! Then when I started thinking about it, it makes sense. How many studies have been published that children who were abused grow up to be abusers, or children of domestic violence often continue the cycle with their own children? And on the other hand, how many children who grown up in wonderful families go on to have happy, normal families of their own?
Now some people might think that is a scary situation to be in – that your actions – good or bad – can shape your family for years and decades to come. I think it is an amazing and awesome responsibility and gladly accept the challenge.
Of course, some days it is easier said than done! We make it our first priority to raise Braden (and peanut) in a safe, nurturing environment. But beyond that, what is our responsibility? We are teaching him manners and I take no greater pride than when adults tell me that my 2 year old tells them thank you. We teach him how to enjoy life – both the simple and exciting things. We are working to teach him patience and in the meantime trying to learn it ourselves. We teach him that hitting is not a way to solve things by not using that method for discipline. Not that I see anything wrong with it, but we learned very early on that he mimicked our actions and started hitting us and other children.
I think some people are afraid to bear children into the world we live in today because it is a scarier place than when we were kids. We face oil shortages, child predators, school shootings, environmental issues, and the list goes on. But how exciting is it that I can the opportunity to change that world starting with 2 children – my own. They say some teachers have an impact that stay with children forever, but how much more true is that for parents? I am excited at the prospect of being able to teach my children the way I'd like the world to be – a courteous, non-violent, wonderful world. That doesn't mean I put blinders on them, but I can change this world – even if it is a small step at a time.
Anyway, I know this is a bit chipper – maybe it's the hormones, but I just wanted to share my excitement with you!
16 week Checkup
Ok – so I'm not sure if I've shared this with all of you, but I'm making my "sex" prediction now. I'm pretty sure it's a boy. Don't ask me why – I just am. In the beginning I really, really wanted a girl, but now that it's almost time to find out, I am becoming more and more excited just about finding out and more and more comfortable with the idea of having 2 boys.
Anyway, had my almost 17 week appointment last Friday (April 23rd) and all was well with mommy and baby. My blood pressure is super great and the doc even said she was "proud" of my weight management.
She and I also got into a very humerous discussion about how I'm a weird (my words not hers) preggo woman. Example – most women's allergies get worse when they are pregnant or have a baby. Mine have almost cured themselves. I still have occasional attacks (mainly when I'm visiting relatives) but at home – nada. I went from twice a week – could not drive – attacks to nothing. Then there is the eye color. After I had Braden my eyes turned more green than blue. Now that I'm pregnant again, my eyes are back to blue. Then there is the teeth thing. Most women's teeth get better after they deliver – I never had a single tooth problem (other than braces) in my life until after I delivered Braden. Now that I'm pregnant again – 1st cavity. Go figure!
Anyway, it's just funny how different things are and you don't realize it until you compare notes!
Next doc appointment with my doc is May 21st…and by then we'll know the sex! I got May 3rd to find out the sex! At this point Brad and I just want to know! Braden still wants a doggie so I'm pretty sure we can rule out that he's getting what he wants out of this =)
One more fun announcement (I may have said this already but I can't remember anything to save my life these days!) We're putting the house on the market at the end of May. Wish us luck!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
More Big News (No not the sex!)
3 weeks ago
Well – the lines have been clearly drawn in our household. While Braden still wavers from day to day between doogie and baby, he has come down firmly on the baby brother side.
It's actually very cute. We've been trying to get Braden used to the idea of a baby and why he has to be more gently with mommy, so I started pointing to my belly and telling him he can rub on the baby. That's all well and good until he wants to see the baby. I still haven't quite figured out how to explain to him that the baby is inside mommy. For now I just tell him the baby is napping…
Feeling pretty good – especially compared to last week. I still have a little bit of swelling, but nothing like last week. I'm starting to not be able to fit into my wedding ring, which is a bummer. Other than that we're just enjoying the beautiful week we're having outside and getting ready for more visits with family.
Baby is kicking a little bit, so I guess maybe she's trying to say hi.
Today:
So I always have good intentions of blogging, but obviously since I started one 3 weeks ago and never published it, those intentions are not being followed through on!
Starting to get a bump. I'm at the point where if I don't wear maternity clothes folks must wonder if I'm fat or pregnant. Maternity shirts from here on out for me =)
Feeling great though. My back has finally started to feel better for the most part. Hopefully it stays this way. Still swollen, so apparently that isn't going to change.
Doc appt next week (17 weeks) so hopefully the week after we'll have our ultrasound to determine the sex. Yay!
One other big note – we're in the process over the next 6 weeks of getting the house ready to put on the market. Over 17 hours of driving to and from Arkansas, Brad and I determined that now is the perfect time to buy a bigger house. We realize we may not get everything out of this house that we've put into it, but Duluth seems to be really rich in foreclosure houses in our size and our budget. That means that we get to stay in the area we've come to love, and get the house we need. Anyway, wish us luck. I know we're crazy to attempt to do this right now, but for us I think it just may be the right decision for now.
So – don't be surprised later this year if I come begging for help moving. Doctor already won't be life anything over 30 pounds (Braden is only 28!) so I won't be too much help.
One more update – as I mentioned earlier, we just got back from a quick weekend trip to Arkansas. We stopped by Ross and Amie's house and saw Murfreesboro and my friend Ashley. Then onto Arkansas to stay with Bobby and Melissa for the weekend. They were nice enough to host a bday party for Braden for some family and friends. Thanks to all who made our weekend so great. It was the perfect mini vacation. Always great catching up with people who we don't get to see that often.
Well – the lines have been clearly drawn in our household. While Braden still wavers from day to day between doogie and baby, he has come down firmly on the baby brother side.
It's actually very cute. We've been trying to get Braden used to the idea of a baby and why he has to be more gently with mommy, so I started pointing to my belly and telling him he can rub on the baby. That's all well and good until he wants to see the baby. I still haven't quite figured out how to explain to him that the baby is inside mommy. For now I just tell him the baby is napping…
Feeling pretty good – especially compared to last week. I still have a little bit of swelling, but nothing like last week. I'm starting to not be able to fit into my wedding ring, which is a bummer. Other than that we're just enjoying the beautiful week we're having outside and getting ready for more visits with family.
Baby is kicking a little bit, so I guess maybe she's trying to say hi.
Today:
So I always have good intentions of blogging, but obviously since I started one 3 weeks ago and never published it, those intentions are not being followed through on!
Starting to get a bump. I'm at the point where if I don't wear maternity clothes folks must wonder if I'm fat or pregnant. Maternity shirts from here on out for me =)
Feeling great though. My back has finally started to feel better for the most part. Hopefully it stays this way. Still swollen, so apparently that isn't going to change.
Doc appt next week (17 weeks) so hopefully the week after we'll have our ultrasound to determine the sex. Yay!
One other big note – we're in the process over the next 6 weeks of getting the house ready to put on the market. Over 17 hours of driving to and from Arkansas, Brad and I determined that now is the perfect time to buy a bigger house. We realize we may not get everything out of this house that we've put into it, but Duluth seems to be really rich in foreclosure houses in our size and our budget. That means that we get to stay in the area we've come to love, and get the house we need. Anyway, wish us luck. I know we're crazy to attempt to do this right now, but for us I think it just may be the right decision for now.
So – don't be surprised later this year if I come begging for help moving. Doctor already won't be life anything over 30 pounds (Braden is only 28!) so I won't be too much help.
One more update – as I mentioned earlier, we just got back from a quick weekend trip to Arkansas. We stopped by Ross and Amie's house and saw Murfreesboro and my friend Ashley. Then onto Arkansas to stay with Bobby and Melissa for the weekend. They were nice enough to host a bday party for Braden for some family and friends. Thanks to all who made our weekend so great. It was the perfect mini vacation. Always great catching up with people who we don't get to see that often.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Fat Feet and all that Jazz...
We had our second doctor visit today. Baby is looking good. I think I'm the one that's in trouble =) Now that I'm over the nausea and exhaustion, I've got back pains and feet that don't fit into shoes. Doctor Johnson wasn't super happy about the symptoms being so early, but said sometimes it just happens. The only medicine is to put my feet up a lot and rest =)
Anyway, baby looks good. Heartbeat was right around 148. Not much else happened at the visit. Still about 5-6 more weeks until we find out the sex of the baby. So hopefully shortly after our next doctor visit we'll have an update.
Other than the aching back and swollen feet I guess I've got nothing else. I have found though that where in the first pregnancy everyone loved to scare me with their labor stories, for the second one people love to tell stories about how much weight they gained, or how it is so much harder to take the weight off, or how the symptoms are worse and sooner. Joy Joy.!
We're off to Auburn this weekend for my cousin Jenny's baby shower. There must be something in the water. Everyone seems to be pregnant!
Anyway, baby looks good. Heartbeat was right around 148. Not much else happened at the visit. Still about 5-6 more weeks until we find out the sex of the baby. So hopefully shortly after our next doctor visit we'll have an update.
Other than the aching back and swollen feet I guess I've got nothing else. I have found though that where in the first pregnancy everyone loved to scare me with their labor stories, for the second one people love to tell stories about how much weight they gained, or how it is so much harder to take the weight off, or how the symptoms are worse and sooner. Joy Joy.!
We're off to Auburn this weekend for my cousin Jenny's baby shower. There must be something in the water. Everyone seems to be pregnant!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Another Update
First of all, I know I'm a slacker! It's been almost 3 weeks and I haven't written a new blog. I have no excuses, just that we're trying desperately to find our way into the terrible 2's at home! I will not lie, it hasn't been the easiest transition for the toddler or the parents!
But, this blog is supposed to be about our #2, so let me give you all an update! I have found yet another difference with this pregnancy… The first time around every thought was centered around the baby that we were going to get at the end. Since we already have kind of an idea what that is like, I'm trying to focus on some of the perks of being pregnant. I have decided that the #1 perk of being pregnant (outside of getting a baby of course) is maternity clothes! I have started wearing some the past few days because I just can't get the jeans zipped up anymore (even though I've only gained 1 pound since our last visit which is truly remarkable considering how I hate on the cruise!). I forgot how great maternity clothes are!
As you all may notice by the way I dress, I prefer comfort over fashion any day of the week. If the two happen to coincide one day, all the better. Well, I truly believe that maternity pants are the ultimate in comfort! It's like wearing pajama pants to work every day! I've got this nice little soft ring around the top of my pants that is made of elastic. It's like wearing your Thanksgiving elastic pants every day!
Ok – so enough about my pants. I have started to feel the baby kicking and I have noticed a few things. 1) She's (yes – I'm wishful thinking again!) a night owl and likes to get up and play around (oh – just felt a small jab – she must know I'm talking about her!) 8:00 every night and generally does some sort of acrobatic feat near my bladder! And 2) she either really likes or really hates spicy food because that usually gets her up and moving.
And speaking of spicy food, that is one downfall for me right now. I get incredible heart burn after eating anything remotely spicy, and for me, that's definitely NOT NORMAL!
Other than that and getting the timing of my vitamins down, I'm feeling pretty good again. Looking forward to the 2nd trimester and all that spring and summer have to bring.
I cannot promise it will not be this long again before I write another one, but our next doc appt is March 26th at 9am. No – we won't know the sex by then. Probably another 7 weeks at least (another kick). As for other news – 2 days from now I will be the mother of a 2 year old. Wish me luck!
But, this blog is supposed to be about our #2, so let me give you all an update! I have found yet another difference with this pregnancy… The first time around every thought was centered around the baby that we were going to get at the end. Since we already have kind of an idea what that is like, I'm trying to focus on some of the perks of being pregnant. I have decided that the #1 perk of being pregnant (outside of getting a baby of course) is maternity clothes! I have started wearing some the past few days because I just can't get the jeans zipped up anymore (even though I've only gained 1 pound since our last visit which is truly remarkable considering how I hate on the cruise!). I forgot how great maternity clothes are!
As you all may notice by the way I dress, I prefer comfort over fashion any day of the week. If the two happen to coincide one day, all the better. Well, I truly believe that maternity pants are the ultimate in comfort! It's like wearing pajama pants to work every day! I've got this nice little soft ring around the top of my pants that is made of elastic. It's like wearing your Thanksgiving elastic pants every day!
Ok – so enough about my pants. I have started to feel the baby kicking and I have noticed a few things. 1) She's (yes – I'm wishful thinking again!) a night owl and likes to get up and play around (oh – just felt a small jab – she must know I'm talking about her!) 8:00 every night and generally does some sort of acrobatic feat near my bladder! And 2) she either really likes or really hates spicy food because that usually gets her up and moving.
And speaking of spicy food, that is one downfall for me right now. I get incredible heart burn after eating anything remotely spicy, and for me, that's definitely NOT NORMAL!
Other than that and getting the timing of my vitamins down, I'm feeling pretty good again. Looking forward to the 2nd trimester and all that spring and summer have to bring.
I cannot promise it will not be this long again before I write another one, but our next doc appt is March 26th at 9am. No – we won't know the sex by then. Probably another 7 weeks at least (another kick). As for other news – 2 days from now I will be the mother of a 2 year old. Wish me luck!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
1st Visit
Well, we've got the first pix of our newest little addition – and yes – there's only 1! Doctor Johnson says the heartbeat sounds great and the neuro tube looks good (whatever that means!) The baby is measuring at 8 weeks, 5 days – meaning a due date of 9/30. The Estimated due Date based on the dates we gave the doctor is 10/03. Doctor Johnson said if this baby was anything like Braden (meaning gigantic!) that we wouldn't go to term again.
The cool thing this time is that the baby was up and moving (Braden wasn't). Super cute! It was almost like she was waving at us. Heartbeat was 178, which is fast, but doc says not to jump to conclusions yet – all heartbeats are fast at this age.
Anyway, all looks good and we go back March 26th for a follow up visit. Enjoy the couple of pix below.
The cool thing this time is that the baby was up and moving (Braden wasn't). Super cute! It was almost like she was waving at us. Heartbeat was 178, which is fast, but doc says not to jump to conclusions yet – all heartbeats are fast at this age.
Anyway, all looks good and we go back March 26th for a follow up visit. Enjoy the couple of pix below.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Hard Work!
It took me exactly 24 hours to realize that being a single parent is HARD WORK! Brad is out of town for business for 3 days and 3 nights, so thank goodness this is a temporary situation.
The first night was actually nice. Braden and I got to spend some great 1 on 1 time together and I got total control of the remote control after Braden went to bed!
Then came the morning. I was trying desperately to shower while listening to see if he had woken up. Needless to say not the most relaxing shower. Once out of the shower, he was up so I had to dry in 3 seconds and go get him. The rest of getting ready went without a hitch, but then it was time to take the trash cans out to the curb. I then had the dilemma of leaving Braden inside by himself of in the garage. I voted for inside, but he freaked out when he couldn't find me.
Finally we were ready to leave and all went well. I then had a crazy, exhausting day at work and I found myself very sad that I couldn't pass Braden off for just half an hour to lie down and read a book. I also found myself thinking how glad I was there weren't two of them yet!
Thank goodness it's the last day of dad being gone for a little big. It's not like we can't handle it, but I know Braden misses Brad a lot (so do I!) and life is just much easier when there is someone else to help you tackle it!
Sorry I haven't written in a while. Life has been crazy, busy, and exhausting for the past few weeks which has left me little time for creativity and inspiration. I'm still feeling ok. We go to the doc 2 weeks from yesterday and are about 6 ½ weeks along. After we go to the doc we'll be more willing to share our news with the world. Thanks for keeping up with us!
The first night was actually nice. Braden and I got to spend some great 1 on 1 time together and I got total control of the remote control after Braden went to bed!
Then came the morning. I was trying desperately to shower while listening to see if he had woken up. Needless to say not the most relaxing shower. Once out of the shower, he was up so I had to dry in 3 seconds and go get him. The rest of getting ready went without a hitch, but then it was time to take the trash cans out to the curb. I then had the dilemma of leaving Braden inside by himself of in the garage. I voted for inside, but he freaked out when he couldn't find me.
Finally we were ready to leave and all went well. I then had a crazy, exhausting day at work and I found myself very sad that I couldn't pass Braden off for just half an hour to lie down and read a book. I also found myself thinking how glad I was there weren't two of them yet!
Thank goodness it's the last day of dad being gone for a little big. It's not like we can't handle it, but I know Braden misses Brad a lot (so do I!) and life is just much easier when there is someone else to help you tackle it!
Sorry I haven't written in a while. Life has been crazy, busy, and exhausting for the past few weeks which has left me little time for creativity and inspiration. I'm still feeling ok. We go to the doc 2 weeks from yesterday and are about 6 ½ weeks along. After we go to the doc we'll be more willing to share our news with the world. Thanks for keeping up with us!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Birthday Wishes
Today on my birthday some folks began to reminisce about what it was like when I was born. As I heard some stories it made me think about how different life is now for a delivering mother than it was then. Some things are better, but in some ways I think its worse.
First of all, did you know that when I was born, people were allowed to smoke in hospitals? Actually they were allowed to smoke in the delivery room. It almost seems comical to me because that is not something I could ever fathom! They also used to give you and your spouse champagne once you delivered. None of that happening anymore. On the bright side though, the used to give you and your spouse a steak dinner to go along with your champagne. Do you know what I got once I delivered for the first 4 hours? A candy bar that Brad had smuggled in from the outside world. And I can promise you that I DID NOT seeing anything remotely resembling a steak. I think the closest I got was the McDonald's Brad smuggled in.
One thing I am loving though is the ability to determine a baby's sex. My parents did not know what I was going to be until I came out. That is one thing that I don't want to do! I can barely wait until 18 weeks! I need to know these things if I'm going to have the first 5 birthday themes planned out by 20 weeks! =)
One step that technology has made that I don't like is the 3 and 4-D images you can get. To me, one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen was the first glimpse I saw of my newborn child. I wouldn't have wanted that moment ruined by having seen him a few weeks before. I guess that's just me.
I guess even though I don't get steak and champagne, I'd much rather deliver in my private room with ESPN than deliver 29 years ago sharing a smoke filledroom with another mother.
Oh yeah, Braden has decided he no longer wants a baby sister. He instead wants a baby puppy. I have tried to explain to him that I'm not going to be much help with that, but he is very adamant. Which has left Brad and I contemplating getting him a puppy for Christmas. And yes, I know we're insane!
First of all, did you know that when I was born, people were allowed to smoke in hospitals? Actually they were allowed to smoke in the delivery room. It almost seems comical to me because that is not something I could ever fathom! They also used to give you and your spouse champagne once you delivered. None of that happening anymore. On the bright side though, the used to give you and your spouse a steak dinner to go along with your champagne. Do you know what I got once I delivered for the first 4 hours? A candy bar that Brad had smuggled in from the outside world. And I can promise you that I DID NOT seeing anything remotely resembling a steak. I think the closest I got was the McDonald's Brad smuggled in.
One thing I am loving though is the ability to determine a baby's sex. My parents did not know what I was going to be until I came out. That is one thing that I don't want to do! I can barely wait until 18 weeks! I need to know these things if I'm going to have the first 5 birthday themes planned out by 20 weeks! =)
One step that technology has made that I don't like is the 3 and 4-D images you can get. To me, one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen was the first glimpse I saw of my newborn child. I wouldn't have wanted that moment ruined by having seen him a few weeks before. I guess that's just me.
I guess even though I don't get steak and champagne, I'd much rather deliver in my private room with ESPN than deliver 29 years ago sharing a smoke filledroom with another mother.
Oh yeah, Braden has decided he no longer wants a baby sister. He instead wants a baby puppy. I have tried to explain to him that I'm not going to be much help with that, but he is very adamant. Which has left Brad and I contemplating getting him a puppy for Christmas. And yes, I know we're insane!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The Secret's Out!
Well, the list of folks sharing our new joy for our new addition is growing by the day. Saturday we had my birthday party and Brad let me tell our friends who came along. We're still waiting to broadcast to the world, but it's so exciting to be able to celebrate with family and close friends. I think the plan is to wait and tell most everyone else until after our first doctor visit.
I realized something this weekend when at a friend's baby shower that made me jump for joy. I'm not new at this anymore. I know that every pregnancy is different, but there are things that will be the same, too. There were 4 first time moms-to-be at this shower and they were all huddled up seeking advice from each other and wondering what such and such would be like. I sat back, smiled, and thought to myself – "Amateurs!" Not to say that the first pregnancy wasn't wonderful and magical and wonderful – it was – but it was also scary and unknown.
This time around I know that I have a super sense of smell and that Herbal Essence will probably make me want to throw up. I know the difference between the first kick and gas. I know that not following every single rule in every single baby book ever written will most likely not cause irreparable damage to our unborn child. I know to be cautious, but not to a fault.
I would like to say that I miss the awe of the first pregnancy, but the truth is, I don't. Brad and I are both over the moon excited about this baby, too, but I'm also excited to know what to expect. It doesn't mean I don't wake up early already thinking about what all we have to get done before the baby comes, but at least this time we know… and Knowing is Half the Battle.
By the way – Braden still wants a baby sister. Brad is busy trying to convince him that he wants twin baby brothers, but for now, Braden's on my side. Truthfully I think once it comes out, Braden won't want either, so we've got a little less than 8 months to get him ready.
I realized something this weekend when at a friend's baby shower that made me jump for joy. I'm not new at this anymore. I know that every pregnancy is different, but there are things that will be the same, too. There were 4 first time moms-to-be at this shower and they were all huddled up seeking advice from each other and wondering what such and such would be like. I sat back, smiled, and thought to myself – "Amateurs!" Not to say that the first pregnancy wasn't wonderful and magical and wonderful – it was – but it was also scary and unknown.
This time around I know that I have a super sense of smell and that Herbal Essence will probably make me want to throw up. I know the difference between the first kick and gas. I know that not following every single rule in every single baby book ever written will most likely not cause irreparable damage to our unborn child. I know to be cautious, but not to a fault.
I would like to say that I miss the awe of the first pregnancy, but the truth is, I don't. Brad and I are both over the moon excited about this baby, too, but I'm also excited to know what to expect. It doesn't mean I don't wake up early already thinking about what all we have to get done before the baby comes, but at least this time we know… and Knowing is Half the Battle.
By the way – Braden still wants a baby sister. Brad is busy trying to convince him that he wants twin baby brothers, but for now, Braden's on my side. Truthfully I think once it comes out, Braden won't want either, so we've got a little less than 8 months to get him ready.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Surprise!
I peed on another stick today. I don't know how many men out there appreciate how many times us women have to pee on sticks or in cups during an average pregnancy. It starts before you even get pregnant. The ovulation kit we used to tell us when to conceive made me pee in a cup every morning for 2 weeks. The worst part is that it has to be the first pee of the morning. That one's got the best stuff. Seriously! I've just been awakened by a crying 22 month old little boy and you want me to get myself together enough to pee in a cup? Oh yeah, did I mention it's usually in the dark, too?
Moving along. So after you theoretically conceive, you have to pee on a stick to make sure you're pregnant. I've now done this a couple of times (Brad doesn't believe me when I tell him that it's almost impossible to get a false positive). The problem with the stick is that you have to pee on only part of the stick (which is tricky in and of itself since I can't see what's going on down there), then replace the cap, the set it on a hard, flat surface for the better part of 5 minutes (although our + sign came right away). So… basically I think these guys are in cahoots with the bathroom floor cleaning guys because the stick is for sure not clean when you put it down on the floor!
Then comes the cup again. Every time you go to the doctor you have to pee in a cup. I once thought it was so they could make sure you were still preggo (they laughed at me when I asked), but apparently it's to check sugars or something in your blood.
Anyway, I suppose that peeing in or on various things is a small price to pay for getting a baby in the end, but I'm pretty sure this method was invented by the same guy that invented panty hose.
In case you're wondering why a blog this time around, there is a good explanation (and no I'm not crazy for adding anything else to my already full plate). Brad and I are making a list of 10 things we want to do or accomplish this year. If all goes well this year, we'll do it every year. Kind of a way to push ourselves beyond our normal limits. Well, for me, publishing something was on my list. I enjoy writing, but don't do it nearly enough anymore, so it went on the list. I plan on writing about all of the ups and downs, the trials and triumphs of our second pregnancy with little Braden along for the ride this time, who by the way says he wants a little sister!
We are officially 3 weeks and 6 days along today. The little one is due on or around October 1, 2010. We'll know more about the due date after our first doctor visit which is February 23rd. We're looking so forward to sharing our pregnancy and the life of our new little one with you. Hope you enjoy the ride! I know we will!
Moving along. So after you theoretically conceive, you have to pee on a stick to make sure you're pregnant. I've now done this a couple of times (Brad doesn't believe me when I tell him that it's almost impossible to get a false positive). The problem with the stick is that you have to pee on only part of the stick (which is tricky in and of itself since I can't see what's going on down there), then replace the cap, the set it on a hard, flat surface for the better part of 5 minutes (although our + sign came right away). So… basically I think these guys are in cahoots with the bathroom floor cleaning guys because the stick is for sure not clean when you put it down on the floor!
Then comes the cup again. Every time you go to the doctor you have to pee in a cup. I once thought it was so they could make sure you were still preggo (they laughed at me when I asked), but apparently it's to check sugars or something in your blood.
Anyway, I suppose that peeing in or on various things is a small price to pay for getting a baby in the end, but I'm pretty sure this method was invented by the same guy that invented panty hose.
In case you're wondering why a blog this time around, there is a good explanation (and no I'm not crazy for adding anything else to my already full plate). Brad and I are making a list of 10 things we want to do or accomplish this year. If all goes well this year, we'll do it every year. Kind of a way to push ourselves beyond our normal limits. Well, for me, publishing something was on my list. I enjoy writing, but don't do it nearly enough anymore, so it went on the list. I plan on writing about all of the ups and downs, the trials and triumphs of our second pregnancy with little Braden along for the ride this time, who by the way says he wants a little sister!
We are officially 3 weeks and 6 days along today. The little one is due on or around October 1, 2010. We'll know more about the due date after our first doctor visit which is February 23rd. We're looking so forward to sharing our pregnancy and the life of our new little one with you. Hope you enjoy the ride! I know we will!
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