Nora: 0-2 weeks

I thought it would be interesting to try and take the same picture I took all pregnancy with baby on the outside!  So here we are, with Nora at a week and half and about her birth weight (probably just a bit over).

Things are going pretty awesome around here.  We have been busy and accomplished a lot (new baby, moved into a new house, emptied the old house, Joseph started first grade), but I have also made sure to take the time to heal and enjoy little Nora.  Of course, there have been some rough moments, but all in all I am completely amazed at how smoothly all these transitions have gone. 

Here is a little update/survey type thing, adapted from other blogs, that I may or may not continue with…

Personality:  Things have been so very different this time around.  Who knows what accounts for this—changes in me, being a second child, not being separated from me in the NICU, or just Nora being Nora—but from the very beginning she has been much more laid back.  She has slept quite a bit and is rarely very fussy.  For about the first week and a half pretty much all she did was sleep.  Now she is starting to have more alert periods, and sometime can get a bit upset, but she still doesn’t compare to Joseph’s hours of constant crying!

Physical: Nora weighed 9lbs even at birth and measured 22 1/2 inches (Joseph was basically the same: just 3 ounces more and exact same length).  She was 8lbs 10 ozs when we left the hospital, then back up to her birth weight about a week later.  At her two week check up yesterday she was 9lbs 10 ozs.  Obviously Brad and I do not make small children! I was a bit taken aback by Nora’s appearance in the beginning, since she had some minor bruises, lots of blotches, and a huge bruise on her head from the vacuum.  Since Joseph was born via c-section he was almost completely unscathed.  But Nora has healed very well—the hematoma on her head surprised everyone by disappearing in a couple days!  Her blotchiness also went away very quickly.  Other then the imperfections from her trip out, Nora looked pretty much identical to Joseph.  So much so that we all kind of thought of her as another little Joseph. Now when I look at her I am starting to see differences and to see more femine aspects.  Her hair is a bit less red then Joseph when he was born and her eyelashes and eyebrows are lighter as well; they are so fair you can barely see them.  Her eyes are blue at this point, whereas Joseph’s were so dark you couldn’t tell what color they were.  In my opinion, she is one cute baby!

Eating habits:  Nora took to nursing right away.  I was sooo happy to be able to nurse as soon as she was born.  I honestly hadn’t thought much about breastfeeding—just assumed I would nurse and remember how to do it.  Very luckily this is pretty much what happened.  For the most part it was like riding a bicycle; it all came back to me quickly.  I was very laid back about it all and that was pleasant (since I’m not really that laid back about too many things relating to infants…).  My milk came in Monday (after she was born Saturday evening) which was pretty quick, and definitely contributed to her being such a happy baby.  By the time we left the hospital that afternoon everyone it seemed had commented on how she pooped like a one week old!  No wonder she gained her weight back so easily!  She is an extremely efficient nurser, she doesn’t nurse for long but clamps on and gets a lot of milk quickly.  I am not paying that much attention to how often she nurses, but it probably averages every three hours or so, more often during the day and less often at night.  She also adores her pacifier and I am kind of trying to cut back on that, without much luck.

Sleep:  I might regret saying this, but so far she has been amazing.  I actually feel like a mostly normal human being (as compared to the zombie I felt like for at least Joseph’s first 3 months).  She loves to sleep.  The main thing she gets upset about now is if she wants to sleep but keeps getting woken up (our house can be a bit noisy sometimes!).  Her amazing sleeping during her first week (when I was recovering and we were about to move) was like a gift from god. Oh I hope and pray that she continues to be a good sleeper.  Even a decent sleeper.  Just better the Joseph, please!!!

Nicknames: Noranator, Noni, Baby, Little sis, Sister, Zibby, Norabelle.

Mom stuff:  As you can tell, I am generally feeling pretty awesome.  I was initially a bit surprised how hurt I was and how little I could do right after the birth (I had clearly romanticized the birth process a bit) .  But I think I am healing well—I feel mostly normal at this point.  I’ve lost 20+ pounds so about 15 more to get to my pre-pregnancy weight.  Somehow all along in this pregnancy I have been much more at ease with the changes in my body and that has continued postpartum.  I know I still have a tummy and I try to conceal it a bit, but I’m not too worried! I’m pretty in awe of what my body managed to do.

Weeks 40&41

Weeks 40&41 update-8/30/13 (after the fact—I delivered at 41 weeks 5 days on 8/24/13)

How big is baby? Another big one.  You can really clearly feel where baby is and body parts.  Kind of strange.

Appointment Updates: I had one last appointment with my preferred Dr. (Anna) and we discussed our plan of continuing to wait for things to happen naturally, then to induce by breaking my water (AROM) on Tuesday 8/27/13 if I had not delivered already. Then Anna went on vacation and the rest of my appointment were with Dr. Kate, the Dr. who delivered Joseph. She was willing to abide by Anna and my plan. Then when I still hadn’t delivered by week 41 I started twice weekly non-stress tests (NSTs) where I would go to the hospital and have baby’s heart rate and my contractions monitored (this is standard practice). Then, after one NST Kate did an ultrasound test and baby did not move at all (besides her heart beating) for 30 min, completely failing the test. Kate and I agreed she was probably sleeping, since she had been moving all over the place on shortly before, but it was still kind of scary. Kate said I should come back in the next day for another NST, which looked fine. Then another NST a couple days later showed two small heart decelerations. Kate said she believed that baby was fine but that these decels were concerning. So they kept me at the hospital and all hooked up for the rest of the afternoon. Everything looked fine, but Kate decided she thought I should be induced right then. This totally freaked me out. She actually said, “I don’t really think there is any problem with your baby, but I can’t be sure and you are so close (5cm) I recommend we break your water now.”  She said I would have to spend the night at the hospital if I didn’t get induced. I continued to resist medical intervention and said I did not want to be induced. At 8 that night, after all day at the hospital and nothing on the strip looking concerning for about 7 hours, she said I could go home!! This was a big deal for me.  I normally do what doctors tell me and the whole “trusting my instinct” thing does not come easy. 

Sleep: Once I stopped working I started sleeping quite well!

Food aversions: Nope

Food cravings: Same—cranberry juice, sweets, lemon, fruit…

Symptoms: Very big, pressure.

Maternity clothes: Not much fit at the end! Same few shirts and skirts.

Weight: I basically stopped worrying about it since I had done pretty well and I was pretty stressed with the whole going overdue thing, but by the very end I was up 35 pounds.

Mommy movement: LOTS of walking. About a mile every night and often more. Didn’t seem to help get baby out though…

Baby movement: Sometimes tons, sometimes not much at all.

Gender: ????????????????????

Birth story--because this baby did finally decide to come out--coming soon!!!

Weeks 36 &37

Weeks 36&37 update-7/20/13

How big is baby? The size of a winter melon.

Appointment Updates: My last appointment was on Thursday (38 weeks). We were going to do a membrane sweep, but I kind of chickened out and Anna (my Dr.) said she didn’t think it would probably make a huge difference either way. We decided to do it on Monday (tomorrow—yikes). We mostly talked about that, a little about different positions and exercises that might be helpful in these last days. Also we talked a little about what might happen if I go overdue again, but she encouraged me to just be optimistic and focus on taking care of myself now. She did check me and said I was 4-4 ½ cm. dilated, 50% effaced, and -1 station.

Best Moment of the week: We have done tons of fun things—including lots of swimming. But one of my very favorite times is actually pretty simple. Almost every night I have been walking up a down the driveway of our new house and in the last two weeks or so Joseph has decided to walk with me. It is such a nice time for us. It’s usually beaitful in the evening and we get to talk and enjoy time together. We have also found tons of blackberries which has been really fun.

Sleep: A couple bad, bad nights—not uncomfortable, just wide awake excited about things—but lately back to normal. I am slightly obsessed with having the air conditioner on, even though it hasn’t been very hot. I love it when it is extremely cold. VERY wasteful, but helps so much.

Food aversions: Nope.

Food cravings: Fruit, lemon anything, and ice cream.

Symptoms: Big. Pressure. Lots of peeing.

Maternity clothes: Mostly my skirts and tank tops. Some maternity. Getting bored with my choices, but it’s too late to buy new stuff!

Weight: Up 32 pounds.

Mommy movement: Ok—walking most days a bit.

Baby movement: On and off, and definitely getting to the point when body party are really sticking out. Sometimes my whole tummy points outward in a kind of triangle! This baby does seem to have some of the family stubbornness though; if someone else wants to feel it move it always seems to stop!

Gender: A big mystery!

What I miss: Not living in constant wondering about when this sh*t is going to happen!

What I am looking forward to: Being done with labor and delivery and having my baby in my arms!!!!

Getting ready for baby: Doing much better. I have all the major things. I made two color coded spreadsheets which helped me get serious and have most things crossed off now. Oh, and I decided in a major indulgence: I hired a house cleaner! My insurance pays for house cleaning three times after the birth and that got me thinking how much I wanted someone to come before. I am so glad I did. I know it will seem totally crazy to some people, but the house is spotless and it makes me so happy! I think it is totally worth it.

Next appointment: Monday—going to strip my membranes.

(I am posting this pretty late—to quickly update I can’t seem to sleep at all anymore which is miserable and I did get my membranes stripped this afternoon, but nothing happening so far.)

Weeks 34 & 35

Weeks 34&35 update-7/20/13

How big is baby? The size of a coconut!

Appointment Updates: I had my 36 week appointment earlier this week. I was back with my normal dr. and everything went pretty well. She said my belly button hernia is nothing to worry about at all, very, very small and hardly noticeable. We went over my list of questions, had a quick exam and ultrasound. She said I am 2 ½ cm. dilated, 50% effaced. I am trying not to get too excited about this—I know one that can stay this way for a LONG time. But at least it is progress in the right direction!  Also, baby is head down and facing sideways—towards my right.

Best Moment of the week: Probably our Hampton Beach trip. This is about Joseph’s favorite thing in the world. I was a little nervous about making it happen this year, but we pulled it off. There were some stressful points, but also lots of fun. The water was WAY warmer then last summer and I do love swimming with Joseph!

Sleep: Mostly ok. Sometimes a little trouble falling asleep if I get worked up about something.

Food aversions: Not a one.

Food cravings: Ice cream. Iced coffee. And best of all the combination of both: a MacDonald's chocolate chip mocha frappe. I got a large one for the drive home from Hampton Beach and it was amazing. It was also very effective since it was the first caffeine I had had in 9 months.

Symptoms: Big, huge. A little crampy and pressure sometimes. Also a little cranky…Oh an of course lots of trips to the bathroom.  Joseph is getting a little fed up with all the bathroom breaks.  I finally showed him a diagram of how squished my bladder is to help him understand!

Maternity clothes: I am mostly wearing tank tops and skirts that are stretchy but not maternity since it is so hot.

Weight: Up 30 pounds. Still pretty happy with my weight gain—especially as compared to last time. This also includes all the treats and yummyness on our trip.

Mommy movement: Staying somewhat active. Lots of moving around at work and tons of walking during our trip.

Baby movement: Sometimes lots, sometimes not as much. Baby did bounce around what seemed like the entire time I was driving to and from Hampton Beach.  Maybe the large mocha frappe had something to do with that?

Gender: ???

What I miss: Not having to worry so much—I find it pretty stressful trying to figure out where the line is for what might not be a good idea while pregnant. I try to do everything I normally would, but realize especially now sometimes I might need to be a little conservative.

What I am looking forward to: Baby. Being done worrying about labor and delivery. I think about it almost constantly.

Getting ready for baby: Our Hampton Beach trip was the last of the major things I wanted to do for fun this summer. Now I am hoping to focus more on getting ready for baby, but I’ve been working and don’t seem to have that much energy left over. All I really want to do is swim!

Next appointment: Next week—weekly appointments now!

Weeks 30 & 31

Weeks 30&31 update-6/21/13

How big is baby? The size of a pineapple.

Appointment Updates: I had my 32 week appointment a couple of days ago. I am still measuring a little ahead, but only about ½ a week. We will do an ultrasound at my 36 week appointment, but that is mostly to confirm that baby is head down (which my doctor things that baby is). We discussed a couple questions, such as pain medication options and protocols at Porter—I would love to be able to go without, but think it’s good to know my options. Found out that even at Fletcher Allen VBACs aren’t allowed to birth in the pools. At Porter I can labor in the tub, but not give birth there.

Best Moment of the week: Lots going on: Joseph finished kindergarten, which was huge, for me at least. We had some extra time together—I took the day off to go to his end of year school picnic, and then we had a whole day together and went to Burlington to spend some of his bday money and get some clothes. He also had his last baseball game of the season, which was very fun. One Saturday he went fishing and rode horses with Grandpa Fred while I worked at the library and then started his big kid camp—which seems super fun!

Sleep: Mostly sleeping well, expect once every week or two I seem to get all worked up thinking about something and have a night where I barely sleep at all. It is so frustrating! However, I seem to be able to get through the day fine even with very little sleep.

Food aversions: Nope.

Food cravings: I still don’t really see the difference between a craving and just wanting some indulgent food. I bought some frozen yogurt, which I had never bought before and it was awesome. I also met with a nutritionist and have been working hard on eating well. Salads, tofu, nuts, seafood, wheat germ, oatmeal, lots of yogurt . . .

Symptoms:  Super big. Acne. And lots and lots trips to the bathroom.  It’s really funny the comments I get from people.  Some comment that I am so big—the whole “you sure there is only one in there?” “I don’t think you are going to make it to August!” “Wow!!!”  and then others say the opposite.  Maybe they are just being nice, but I appreciate the good manners.  I think I’ve figured it out though, the people who think I am really big are very small themselves and vice versa.  It’s all in your perspective. 

Maternity clothes: I finally went shopping and bought some new maternity clothes, which was pretty fun.

Weight: Up 26 pounds now . . . still seem to be gaining 1 ½ pounds a week. Geeze!

Mommy movement: I seem to be really good every other week!

Baby movement: SO MUCH! I can’t believe it. Baby has hiccups most nights, something I never experience with Joseph. I feel and see the baby moving very often, and actually find it really distracting when I am trying to talk to someone or do something. Sometimes baby moves so much I am surprised other people don’t notice!

Gender: ???

What I miss: Not being huge. Not stressing about trying to grow a healthy child. Iced coffees.

What I am looking forward to: Summer fun—camp, beach, swimming, Jenn and family visiting . . .

Getting ready for baby: Still so much to do. At the top of the list, baby needs a name and a car seat. I would love to have everything clean and organized and all prepared . . . I’ve been kind of stressing about everything because there just doesn’t seem to be time, especially with all the fun things I am hoping to do with Joseph this summer . . . This is actually what kept me up the other night. So I decided I needed to simplify things as much as possible. I am trying to just prioritize what is important and cut out what isn’t as well as balance things better. I said no to two projects I was asked to work on—it is very hard for me to say no, but I am proud of myself.

Oh, and I still cannot find a doula! I am getting pretty frustrated about that…apparently lots of people want to take their vacation the beginning of August…

Next appointment: The week after next. Meeting the only Dr. in the practice I have not yet met.

Happy summer everyone!

Weeks 28&29

Weeks 28&29 update-6/6/13

How big is baby? The size of an acorn squash—big!

Appointment Updates: I had an appointment early this week. I past my blood test (for iron level) and glucose test (to check for gestational diabetes). I felt pretty good about that, especially since I tend to have low iron levels. My blood pressure was pretty low, even lower then usual. The nurse seemed to be concerned but doctor said it was fine. We signed paper work for a VBAC. I also am measuring big so I may have a ultrasound next time to determine if I am a bit ahead of schedule (which I have thought all along).

Best Moment of the week: Probably my cape trip with my awesome co-workers!! So much fun!

Sleep: Sleeping well, except when I get over excited about something—like the night before my trip to the cape.

Food aversions: Not at all.

Food cravings: Hmmm . . . lemon anything, same as before. I also eat lots of fruit and have a newfound love for apples.  I am really, really working on eating healthy and have been trying new recipes. 

Symptoms:  Big. Acne (mostly on my shoulders).  Lots of trips to the bathroom.  And sometimes achy hips in the morning when I am waking up.  Oh yeah and emotional—I get irritated and frustrated very easy.  Watch out!

Maternity clothes: Yup. And I seem to be growing out of some of them as well. I also did finally buy myself some new clothes, but not maternity ones! I bought a skirt and two dresses before I headed to the cape and they seem to work really well in warm weather, plus I will be able to get use out of them after baby as well. However, of course it cooled down a lot. I am really bummed I don’t have ANY maternity jeans that fit.

Weight: Up 23 pounds. Oh well! Still trying hard to do my best not to gain too fast, but also not worrying too much. The doctor says I am doing fine.

Mommy movement: Some walks, still should do better.

Baby movement: Lots and lots. Hours on end. ;-) It isn’t painful at all yet; I just love it! The other day I was laying with sleeping children at work and baby kicked for the whole two hours strait.  It was such a treat to get to lay there and pay attention to it!

Gender: ?

What I miss: Licking the batter when backing. I know I have already said that, but it is such torture!  Also being able to sleep in any position.

What I am looking forward to: All I can think of is a healthy baby.   Well, and having a baby and knowing a lot more about what to do with a baby.  When I had Joseph I had never even held an infant and had to completely rely on instincts and book learning to figure out what to do with him.  Which worked out OK, but I think it is going to be so nice have some actual experience with children to fall back on.  Not only have I had one child or my own, but I have worked with lots and lots of children for my job and learned from many amazing people with tons of experience.  

Getting ready for baby: Ughhhh. Apparently this is the time when it seems more real to me. Now it seems like there is so much to do and so little time . . . Trying to clean stuff, organize, get the new things I need/want, looking for a doula, maybe a counselor, figure out my health insurance, trying to prepare myself emotionally and physically and of course squeeze in fun times with Joseph, organize our summer, help brad with the new house, plus work. Scheduling this summer seems impossible. It is all kind of overwhelming. Oh well, I’ll just keep trucking away at it!

Next appointment: Next week, with a possible ultrasound.  I can’t decide if I want an ultrasound or not: I would love to see the baby but I am worried I will see something to give away the gender!

Weeks 26 & 27

Weeks 26&27 update-5/23/13

How big is baby? The size of a rutabaga. What? No idea how big a rutabaga is, so I checked: 13.6 to 14.8 inches and 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.

Appointment Updates: Just had an appointment today. Dr. said I am on to every two week appointments now which is very exciting for me! I love appointments and the fact that I am getting closer . . .

Best Moment of the week: I am sooo excited to be in the third trimester, seven months along, and to have reached “the age viability.” It just seems unbelievable to me that I am this far along. I still feel surprised that I am even pregnant! A woman in the online “due date club” I sometimes frequent had her baby last week and he is ok! Amazing to think.

Sleep: Sleeping good. Yay! Oh, actually I had a couple nights of not sleeping well because I got a really bad cold, which is kind of weird for me since I don’t usually get sick. It was mostly a bad sore throat, for which I normally would take lot of medicine and cough drops, but I am too nervous for any of that. Anyways, all better now!

Food aversions: Nope.

Food cravings: I realized that lemon is my favorite. I have made homemade lemonade twice and love it, and usually order lemonade for a drink at restaurants. And I treated myself to a can of lemon curd at the store last time I went shopping. Yum!

Symptoms:  Big and hot. Luckily the weather has been a bit cooler. My thermostat seems to be set high. I also just realized I am getting quite large. I think my stomach is probably about where it was at week 33 or 34 last time. And I got pretty huge last time. This time my stomach doesn’t seem as round and symmetrical and I think my belly button might pop out, which never happened last time. I also had two random people tell me I was very big and that they were surprised I wasn’t due until August. Though people say all sorts of different things and some say how close I am getting—which I LOVE. I’m not too worried about the size of my tummy though, I think it’s pretty much going to get huge one way or another and it’s a good cause!

Maternity clothes: No question. Though I continue to try and stretch (literally) my wardrobe by wearing non-maternity shirts (like the one in the picture), but probably a bad idea. I am really hoping to get time to go to Burlington to buy myself some maternity clothes. I told myself that this pregnancy I wouldn’t be as cheap as last time and would buy myself some clothes, but I still haven’t made time to go shopping.

Weight: 21 pounds. At my appointment though my Dr. was very encouraging; she said I am doing fine with my weight. I am trying really hard to be healthy, but I think I just gain a lot pregnant and am also trying not to worry about it too much. Really looking forward to the nursing diet—hopefully it works as well as last time!

Mommy movement: Ok: some walking and one yoga class. Still could do better. Get on it Ruth!

Baby movement: Lots and lots. All over the place. So wish I could know what baby is doing in there!

Gender: ?????

What I miss: Not being humongous.

What I am looking forward to: Healthy baby!!

Getting ready for baby: Not much. A family at work has been giving me all their gender neutral baby clothes. I forgot to mention last time that I did a super awesome deep clean of half the down-stairs and am hoping to continue and do the whole house before baby arrives. I count this as getting ready for baby and for moving! However, I seem to have a lot different concept of what a baby needs then other people. I don’t think a baby really needs much stuff. Though it does need a name eventually I suppose ;-)

Next appointment: Two weeks!

Weeks 24 & 25

Weeks 24&25 update-5/9/13

How big is baby? The size of a cauliflower. (Kind of weird—the week before said cantaloupe).

Appointment Updates: We had an appointment about two weeks ago, but nothing much happens at appointment right now. Weight, blood pressure, answer questions, measure the tummy, and listen to the heartbeat. The Dr. was pretty awesome with Joseph and let him operate the doopler to listen to the heartbeat which was very touching. He loved it—so much so he forgot to complain about not knowing the gender. I think the heartbeat was 154, but not exactly sure.

Best Moment of the week: Probably our family birthday party! It was beautiful weather, a lot of family made it, and I loved having everyone together

Sleep: Mostly sleeping well, though if I am stressed about something (some work stress and a little about putting on parties) I end of having trouble sleeping, which is not normal for me. A couple of times I have awoke at about three and not been able to go back to sleep. It is very frustrating when it happens!

Food aversions: Not a one. Funny how that changed! My gag reflex is totally back to normal (which means I don’t really have one). This is good for my life since I deal with lots grossness (compost, cat puke, baby poop, spit-up, etc. . .).

Food cravings: All food! I eat a ton of fruit because I am always hungry. ehhh

Symptoms:  Getting big, and using the bathroom a lot. I feel like I have to pee all the time. Also acne. Major boo. Oh and I think I am extra hot all the time. We have had extremely hot weather (for May in Vermont—70s and 80s with intense sun) and I was not a fan at all. I don’t really like super hot weather to begin with and I have hardly any summery clothes that fit. Not fun. Oh, and my feet even got a little swollen, which never happened last time. L

Maternity clothes: Definitely. I actually have kept wearing non-maternity clothes, especially lately because it has been so hot and I don’t have very many summery maternity clothes. But I think it is time to give up on most non-maternity clothes. I wore a shirt yesterday that I see now did not fit. Mistake.

Weight: Not good. Up about 18 pounds. I was so good in the beginning and now it is just booming.

Mommy movement: Not as good. I got really busy with all the birthday stuff going on and haven’t made it a priority. Also it was so hot I bailed on walks at work, though I still snuck in a few.

Baby movement: Still comes and goes, but very busy today! Like hours of movement today. It is really funny sometimes trying to put kids to sleep at work and this baby is kick, kick, kicking away. There is one little girl at work who obsesses with my baby and will do pretty much anything to be able to be with me (which is useful since she can be very challenging). I can also watch my tummy move now!

Gender: Still a mystery. I’ve gotten some carrying high comments lately (traditionally carrying higher is thought to indicate a girl), but there is also no question that many things about this pregnancy are very similar to last time (might indicate boy) such as my humongous-ness and acne. I don’t have any strong intuition as to what it is.

What I miss: EATING THE DOUGH WHILE BAKING. So frustrating to bake and not be able to indulge. Seriously, it’s torture!

What I am looking forward to: Bigger, stronger, healthier baby. Another appointment. Getting closer to the end.

Getting ready for baby: Haven’t done much more lately. I did attend one childbirth class and am talking with a potential doula. I did start a list of what I am looking for. But it only has two things: moby wrap and co-sleeper. And I’ve already found a friend who is passing on their moby. No real name progress. This child will be lucky if we ever decide on a name!

Weeks 22 and 23

Weeks 22&23 update-4/11/13

How big is baby? The size of a grapefruit! Oh yay, sounding more substantial ;-)

Appointment Updates: Tomorrow!

Best Moment of the week: Joseph and I are both on vacation this week and it has been wonderful.  Beautiful weather, relaxing, sleeping in (7:30!!), walking in the woods, Kidspace playground, old friends, baseball, a museum (ECHO), some shopping, creemes, cleaning, organizing, bike riding, building and excavating next door, holding hands, reading books, and getting rid of tons of stuff . . . Vacation feels like time to regroup and take a deep breath, which was much needed. Oh and I finished up work early last week to travel to NY with friends. Lots of fun as well for me, plus two overnights with grandparents, fishing, building with Dad and more adventures for Joseph.  Thanks for helping out everyone!

Sleep: A couple times not so great. Last night our fan broke and it was probably 50 out and I was SO HOT I couldn’t sleep. Not quite sure how I am going to make it through the summer . . .

Food aversions: None.

Food cravings: Just my normal love of all food. ehhh

Symptoms:  Big tummy—big enough that it seems pretty clear to everyone that I am pregnant. This makes me very happy! Some hip pain in the morning. Need to pee a lot.

Maternity clothes: No question. I had been trying to make use of some of my normal clothes because I realized I wouldn’t be able to for long. Now they really don’t fit!

Weight: Boo. Up 15 pounds. Too much. But oh well. I might have to delete this section of the survey.

Mommy movement: Really working on lots of walks. Last week it was nice and we went on lots of walks at work. I look forward to that trend continuing.

Baby movement: Sometimes tons, sometimes not as much, which totally freaks me out.

Gender: ?

What I miss: Coffee.

What I am looking forward to: Hearing the heartbeat tomorrow!

Getting ready for baby: It is starting to seem more real for me! I went through Joseph’s closet (where most baby related items are stored) and sorted what I have left from him (I kept a large tote of his clothes each year, just in case, and some of his favorite toys, books, and stuffed animals). Since we don’t know the gender, are moving soon after baby is born, and don’t like to spend lots of money we aren’t planning on buying much. I didn’t last time either and we were fine! Of course it helps that family and friends are very generous with gifts and hand-me-downs. I am also planning on looking for a doula, taking a childbirth class, and doing lots of reading, to try and prepare for a better birth experience. This isn’t particularly “fun” for me, since the idea of birth completely freaks me out after my last experience and is all wrapped up with negative emotions, but I am doing my best. Most importantly I am TRYING to convince myself that a healthy baby and momma are the #1 most important thing.

Next appointment: Tomorrow. Joseph is coming with me (because it is school vacation) and he said today that he is going to get the Dr. to tell him the gender! So cute. Of course he can’t, because it isn’t written anywhere in my paper work and my Dr. doesn’t know (she didn’t do the ultrasound). Love the suspense.

Here is a picture I found from last time at 23 weeks—one of the few since I didn’t take many pictures.  I love this one, but it is a little scary since I am already so much bigger than that!

Weeks 15-20 (getting close to caught up!)

Weeks 15-18 update: 3/7/13  (I seem to have lost one of these entries, or maybe never did it.  Oh well!)

How big is baby? The size of an avocado.

Appointment Updates: I had what is probably my last appointment with the midwife group I had hoped to use. It went pretty well. I really like that they have so much time, as reflected by the fact that they spent lots of time discussing nutrition with me. I kept a food diary for a couple days and then we went over it. Going into it I was thinking eating healthy meant lots of fruits of vegetables and not too many sweets or junk. I’ve been doing pretty well on the produce; not so well on avoiding sweets. I was surprised when the midwife really focused on iron, calcium, and protein and wasn’t much concerned about the Girl Scout cookies and coffee cake. So the session did what it was supposed to and I have new things to on which to work. I even started drinking milk, something I have never done, not even when I was a kid!

Best Moment of the week: I’m kind of behind on this, so not really sure. We had a great weekend with family during winter break.

Sleep: Sleeping fine! Yay!

Food aversions: Mostly all gone. I can eat meat now. Chicken still seems kind of disgusting to me though.

Food cravings: My appetite is definitely back! Just like when I was pregnant with Joseph I am very into citrus—clementines and grapefruit being me favorite. I also LOVE canned fruit and granola!!!!!!

Symptoms: Getting bigger…

Maternity clothes: Mostly wearing maternity clothes. I am so grateful that this time around I am getting hand-me-downs from friends! Also found that our local children’s second hand store has a great maternity section. I already have tons more than I ever had last time.

Weight: Weight gain is picking up. Err. I didn’t gain anything throughout the first trimester—since food didn’t really sound that good. But now I am hungry! And willing to indulge a bit more than I probably should. So far about 6 pounds up, but looks like a lot more. Oh well. Still aiming for 10 pounds by 20 weeks.

Gender: No idea and don’t care!

What I miss: Hmmm. Not worrying about everything being alright with baby.

What I am looking forward to: I am sooo much looking forward to my detailed ultrasound next Friday. I am having a very, very, veryyyyyyyyyy hard time waiting!!!!!!!

Next appointment: Next Friday.

Weeks 19&20 update: 4/1/13

How big is baby? The size of a banana.

Appointment Updates: I had my detailed ultrasound which went well and my first appointment with the doctor I think I am going to use. It was pretty routine, but she took the time to answer my questions.

Best Moment of the week: Hmmm . . . super fun Easter holiday weekend!

Sleep: Sleeping well.

Food aversions: None.

Food cravings: Getting very hungry! I have been eating tons of eggs, because they are so easy and healthy. I love my fruit and my junk food. Trying to limit the junk food, but having a hard time, especially with all the holiday fun!

Symptoms: Twitchy limbs,

Maternity clothes: Yup.

Weight: Errr. Gaining quickly. My goal was 10 pounds by 20 weeks, but was up about 11. The new doctor suggested a total weight gain of 20 pounds for me. Don’t think that will be happening.

Gender: ???? Either boy or girl ;-)

What I miss: Coffee, crystal light, lunch meats, not having to worry about all this stuff.

What I am looking forward to: A healthy baby!

Next appointment: End of April.

Weeks 12, 13, & 14

Week 12 update-2/4/13

How big is baby? The size of a plum.

Appointment Updates: None.

Best Moment of the week: Hmm—we had a nice meal out at Mr. Ups on Friday and a wonderful walk all around the land where we will be building a new house on Saturday.

Sleep: Sleeping fine most of the time. No more round ligament pain. Sometimes I do have trouble falling back to sleep when I wake up, which is pretty unusual for me.

Food aversions: Bluck. Still don’t really have any interest in most things healthy.  Brad is doing a lot of the cooking, usually meat, beans, rice, and other vegetables. I like the idea that he is cooking healthy, but I do not like the smell of it! Yuck!

Food cravings: The only things that really seem good are carb type. Oh and I did buy some sherbert! YUM!

Symptoms: Tired and emotional. One day I was super nauseas again, but usually that isn’t so much of an issue anymore.

Maternity clothes: A friend gave me a bunch of maternity clothes and I tried some on for the first time this weekend—and all of a sudden I feel like there is a little bump!

Gender: ?

What I miss: Not having to worry.

What I am looking forward to: Baby developing and growing!

Next appointment: Late Feb.

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Week 13 update-2/10/13

How big is baby? The size of a peach.

Appointment Updates: One of the midwives acknowledged my nervousness last appointment and told me I could come in anytime and hear the heart beat. This Wednesday I took her up on the offer. I called at 11 and they said to come right in. It did make me feel good to hear the heartbeat again. It was strong and she found it quickly. However she couldn’t ever get it for a long time because baby was moving all over the place! There was a lot of “wooshing” and the midwife said that was baby moving. She commented a number of times on how active baby was ;-)

Best Moment of the week: Hmmm… hearing the heartbeat was great. Playing in the snow with J was fun, especially when he tried snowboarding and it actually worked. Plus, I am pretty positive I can feel baby and I just love that!! I swear baby to reacts to my touch and moves all around!

Sleep: Sleeping pretty well. Sometimes wake up and have trouble going back to sleep, but not too often.

Food aversions: Getting less and less pronounced. Lots of things still don’t sound good, but they don’t gross me out as much.

Food cravings: Canned fruit.

Symptoms: Moody.

Maternity clothes: Yup! I can still wear normal cloths, but the maternity clothes my friend gave me are much more comfortable and cute! I guess I need to tell work soon though…

Weight: Up about a pound, though it fluctuates.

Gender: ?

What I miss: Not having to worry as much. I am a worrier to begin with, and growing a brand new tiny, tiny life is pretty stressful for me!

What I am looking forward to: Same as always; a healthy baby growing and developing! Can’t wait to be “more” pregnant!

Next appointment: This Friday. I am meeting with the OBGYN group that will probably deliver me, since the midwives I am seeing are not yet certified to attend deliveries of women who have had c-sections. The situation is annoying, since I am really enjoying the midwives and would prefer to stay with them, but I am trying to keep cool about it, and just deal with the hand I am dealt.

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Week 14 update-2/18/13

How big is baby? The size of a peach.

Appointment Updates: I had my first appointment with the Dr. practice that I will probably end of having to go to since the midwives I have been seeing are not yet certified to attend women who have had a previous c-section. I am still a little disappointed, but fortunately my first appointment with the Dr.’s went pretty well.

Best Moment of the week: A coworker had a huge surprise 30^th birthday and it was so much fun to have night out dancing!

Sleep: Sleeping pretty well.

Food aversions: This has gotten so much better. I got my first decaf coffee in months (not because I am opposed to it, but because the idea of coffee made me feel sick), but finally coffee sounded good and I very much enjoyed my small cup! I still don’t really like chicken, but I can eat it.

Food cravings: Sweets. And I indulged a bit with Valentine’s day and the big party…

Symptoms: Symptoms are pretty under control lately. I am definitely in a good part of pregnancy. I have more energy and less nausea. I feel so much more like myself.

Maternity clothes: I have been wearing the clothes a friend loaned my most of the time. I enjoy being comfortable and I think they kind of help me look more pregnant, which I enjoy.

Weight: Up about 3 pounds. The midwives told me I should gain 10 by twenty weeks so I think I am on pretty good track, though I can see that the weight gain is picking up.

Gender: Don’t know and not finding out! I don’t even really spend time trying to figure it out.

What I miss: ?

What I am looking forward to: Showing more, talking about all things baby since now most people know…

Next appointment: Next week with the midwives. I am keeping this appointment since I love having appointments, but may decide soon it is time to end my time with the midwives . . . Boo. Oh and my big 20 week anatomy scan ultrasound is now scheduled for mid March and I am SOOO EXCITED for this!

More looking back: Weeks 9, 10, &11

(Sorry, I don’t have any pictures from this time period.)

Week 9 update-1/8/13

How big is baby? The size of a green olive.

Appointment Updates: Ultrasound on Wed. went pretty well—it was amazing to see that the fetus already looks like a baby! A little like a gummy bear, but much more baby like then I expected. They did also find a cyst on my ovary, but didn’t seem to concerned. Also, baby was a little big, so they moved my due date up four days to 8/12/13—which I was not surprised about at all. I have known for so long I figured I was a little ahead.

Best Moment of the week: Telling Joseph! I was really wondering how this would go, but it was amazing! He asked lots of great questions, came up with all sorts of plans, and talks to baby all the time. It is amazingly adorable.

Sleep: More comfortable. And I like a lot of it!

Food aversions: Much better. I can eat pretty normally again now. The idea of raw chicken still really, really bothers me though.

Food cravings: Hmmmm . . . I indulged myself with a bagel this week, which was super yummy, but made me really miss my favorite bagel combo with lox and cream cheese. I miss it sooo much. More than alcohol and coffee. I think I will get some ASAP after giving birth!

Symptoms: The worst this week was a really bad headache—exacerbated by a horrible day at work. I went to bed when I got home. Still super vivid dreams as well, which is pretty fun!

Maternity clothes:  Still thinking about it . . .

Gender: No idea! Though lots of the time we (Brad, Joseph, and I) tend to refer to it as “he” or “brother” ;-) We do know there is just one though now.

What I miss: Same.

What I am looking forward to: Continuing to make progress . . . I am still having a hard time dealing with being so early—it is very strange. We are starting to tell people know, but it makes me extremely nervous. I will be 10 weeks tomorrow, but it still seems so early and like anything could happen. Last time (due to very strange circumstances) I found out at 16 weeks and told people at 19, so by then things were MUCH more established. Oh well. It’s all part of the process.

Next appointment:  Two weeks for my 12 week checkup!

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Week 10 update-1/19/13

How big is baby? The size of a prune

Appointment Updates: None

Best Moment of the week: Hmmm . . . pretty typical week. I love that Joseph is having so many new adventures at school. Ha—and he just looked over and read this ;-)

Sleep: Sleeping pretty well and still sleeping as much as possible.

Food aversions: I am wondering if I will ever be a chicken fan again? I also have trouble with Brad’s healthy foods: beans and the protein shakes he is into now really bug me. Yuck.

Food cravings: Still really loving soups. Tried some new recipes this week, such as a kale, sausage, ravioli soup and cream of tomato soup. My appetite definitely came back and I am glad to be able/willing to cook again. Last night I made a big yummy meal—stuffed shells, squash, and apple crisp. It was awesome! Also, anything I am not allowed to have sounds super awesome, especially pepperoni and smoked salmon.

Symptoms: Mild nausea. Tired.

Maternity clothes:  Not yet . . .

Gender:  ??

What I miss: I guess I am starting to get used to this idea of being pregnant!

What I am looking forward to: Just making progress and telling more people.

Next appointment:  Next Wed. for 12 weeks!!!

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Week 11 update-1/26/13

How big is baby? The size of a lime.

Appointment Updates: Had a pretty good appointment this past week. It was my first time meeting another one of the midwives and I really liked her. Since I tend to worry about this a lot her very laidback, calm attitude was such a comfort for me!

Best Moment of the week: I saw lots of friends which was fun, found out one is expecting as well! Also, I thought I felt baby move, but now I am skeptical. At the time I was totally convinced though.

Sleep: Still pretty tired. Sometimes

Food aversions: Still not a fan of meat and cooked vegetables—you know the healthy things.

Food cravings: Cheese! String cheese is like my crack. Oh and I still really, really miss crystal light—well actually sometimes I indulge. I also had a dream about crystal light: I went to some restaurant and was so happy to see that they had Crystal Light smoothies—oh it looked so good in my dream!

Symptoms: Tired.

Maternity clothes: Not yet, but thinking about it. I did buy a pair of yoga pants though. I was wearing them one morning and Joseph asked me not to walk him into school with my pajama pants on! 

Gender:  Who knows?

What I miss: All the foods I’m not allowed to eat.

What I am looking forward to: Baby growing! Feeling baby move!

Next appointment: Late Feb.

Looking back—Weeks 7&8

I have been writing little reflections, inspired by lifeontheterrace and other such blogs.

(Sorry, I was really concentrating on taking the pic.  I cannot figure out how to get good pictures.)

Week 8 update-1/8/13

How big is baby? The size of a raspberry

Appointment Updates:  Ultrasound tomorrow!

Best Moment of the week: Hmmm . . . it’s been a bit mundane and I still don’t feel to chipper. I did have fun having a girl date to see Les Miserables on Sunday. We also had a fun family outing to Whirlie’s World (local arcade type place) this weekend .

Sleep: Already uncomfortable. My hips hurt for some reason in the morning. Maybe ligaments stretching because of changing hormones?

Food aversions: A lot less powerful then last week. Now I can eat most normal things. Except chicken, I really don’t like chicken anymore. Also, I was so worried about not drinking coffee, but turns out I don’t think I could if I wanted to!

Food cravings: Nothing healthy. Sorbet mostly. Bland foods like potatoes, cereal, oatmeal, and cheese are my favorites right now. Oh and soup. If I do cook it is usually a soup.

Symptoms:  Restless legs, some nausea and fatigue—but much improved!, bloated, very vivid dreams!

Maternity clothes:  Thinking about it . . .

Gender: No idea! And I don’t really like other people’s comments on this matter for the most part. Sometimes I think some people are wishing for a girl, which makes me uncomfortable because it certainly could be either! We have no control over this, so why waste time on it? To be honest my dream would be one of each. Crazy I know!

What I miss: Same as last week. It is a bit challenging trying to stick to and remember all the diet restrictions.

What I am looking forward to:  Tomorrow’s appointment (also very nervous about it). Telling people; though this also makes me nervous. We are planning on telling Joseph if all is well at my appointment tomorrow, then our families this weekend. So then it won’t be a “secret” anymore (though I don’t know how everyone hasn’t figured it out yet; if you know me at all you know there is no other reason I would quit coffee, diet coke, and alcohol!). I really don’t know about when to tell people at work, and others in general . . . I might actually be keeping it a secret longer, but Brad thinks it is time to tell!

Next appointment:  Tomorrow’s ultrasound.

(Another horrible picture—sorry!)

Week 7 update-1/1/13

How big is baby? The size of a blueberry.

Appointment Updates:  I had my first appointment a couple weeks ago. Nothing much, no ultrasound or anything to confirm this pregnancy like I was hoping. Mostly talked about my medical history. I was very discouraged at my options for a VBAC . . .

Best Moment of the week: Hmmm, lots! It was a great holiday. Spent lots of time with friends and family!

Sleep: Already uncomfortable.

Food aversions: At various times lots of stuff seems unappealing.

Food cravings:  Hmmm, grapefruit and crystal light. I am really trying not to drink crystal light, but it is almost the only thing that makes me feel un-nauseous for a minute. Err.

Symptoms:  Bloated, nauseous most of the time, twitchy legs, and very emotional. Fun!

Maternity clothes:  Not yet, but I am seriously considering it.

Gender: No idea!

What I miss: Being able to eat and drink without worrying all the time! Geeze. I miss soft-cheese, coffee, diet coke, caffeine in general, smoked salmon, salami, lunch meats, Caesar salad, alcohol, and so much more . . . Also, being honest. It is so weird not talking to people about what is going on with me. But probably a good lesson in trying to be more private.

What I am looking forward to:  Ultrasound next Wednesday and being able to tell people!

Next appointment:  Dating ultrasound!!!