Took this yesterday, but got distracted and forgot to post it! Here’s this weeks belly pic.
Monthly Archives: January 2014
I Made Myself Tear Up By Singing…
Okay, so yes, I teared up mid-belt-out, but no, it wasn’t because I’m a terrible singer… although I am. (And, as a side-note, it must be mentioned that the only person who appreciates my strange, off-key voice is my husband. He actually goes as far as saying he thinks I have a good voice.)
Lately, with all the developments going on with our little baby, I can’t help but feel incredibly lucky to be so close to our baby. I have decided that I am definitely feeling the baby kick. In fact, it seems that when I lay down to go to sleep, the baby tends to move around quite a bit. So last night, in my own little way, I played with our baby. The baby would kick or flutter or pop popcorn in a certain area and then I would put my warm hand on the corresponding area on my belly. Then I’d let go and he or she would flutter in a different area, so I’d put my hand there. The game continued for a few minutes and it just felt so special.
I know my husband is super excited to feel the baby move as well, so I didn’t say anything to him, as not to rub it in. I just quietly interacted with my sweet little baby. Now, who knows if the babe was really “interacting” with me, but in my mind, he or she was.
So why the overemotional singing session? As I was singing some poppy ballad, I couldn’t help but think about the fact that our sweet nugget was hearing me, learning my voice, and learning to love my tone-deaf melodies just like my husband does. It again felt so special. As the mom, I am blessed with this deep-rooted connection with our baby before he or she ever gets to experience the outside world. I get to feel his or her movements and keep him or her warm and safe. I get to be closer to my baby physically than I will ever be in our lives. I get to literally sustain my baby… keep him or her alive through my life. It’s just so amazing. Such a miracle.
And even more exciting is the fact that every day, our baby is hearing me, learning my voice, finding comfort in the rhythm of my heart or the warmth of my hand. Essentially, we are falling in love and building this bond before we ever get to meet face-to-face. What an amazing opportunity. What a gift.
It reminds me that no matter how excited I am to kiss those sweet little fingers and toes, I have to soak in every moment of this magical time with our baby. I have to refrain from looking forward and enjoy today. Another day of pure, untainted Mommy/Baby time.
Symptoms
Falling in love with my sweet baby.
Dear Baby, Is that you?
Is that you I’m feeling?
The most common question I’ve been receiving lately is whether I’ve felt the baby move yet. My answer to-date has been, “no… I don’t think so?” But, as of yesterday, I think my answer is feeling a bit more like, “I don’t know… but I think so!?”
On Sunday I felt a weird sensation on the left side of my belly that almost felt like a twitch. I made a comment about it to my mom and hubs, but kind of felt like it was too noticeable to be this “flutter” of a kick people have been warning me about. Then, yesterday as I was driving, I felt a similar sensation… although a little less severe… in the same area. I put my hand on my belly and made a noise like, “hmph,” which is code for, “what the f**k was that?”
When I finally crawled in bed last night, I decided to give the old tum a few pokes and prods to see if I could recreate the flinchy sensation. And, sure enough, I felt it! Quite a bit actually. I started to analyze the feeling and thought, I guess this could be described as popcorn popping (another description I’ve heard used to explain the initial movement sensations). Then, within seconds I started thinking, “could I be imagining this?”
So, now I’m left with the overwhelming thought of, “Is what I feel the real deal? Is this my little babe?”
Symptoms
My weird dreams have been in overdrive lately. Last night I literally dreamt that one of my friends was having a little relationship with a high schooler. I had to explain to her that because he is under 18, that’s technically rape. What the heck??
Other than the bizarre inner workings of my mind, I’ve also had an inability to smell my dinner once I’m done eating. The second my fork hits the plate for good, the smell of dinner almost immediately starts grossing me out and polluting my senses. That has actually been going on for quite some time. It’s probably one of my husband’s least favorite symptoms because it means clean up time needs to start immediately after finishing dinner.
I’m still in very high spirits these days! Feeling great and lucky and excited and happy. I can’t believe that we will get to see our sweet baby boo in 4D in just 3.5 weeks! And of course, find out if this little nugget is a boy or a girl! Such excitement!
16 Weeks, 5 Days (January 15, 2014)
16 Weeks, 5 Days (January 15, 2014). I need to get better at posting on Fridays. Anyway, the belly continues to grow. Not sure if its much different than last week, but maybe a little. PS: Toby’s not wearing a sweater. That is called a puppy bumper, which is a weird collar thing to prevent him from fitting through the slats in our fence. These are 5 lb dog problems.
I had the weirdest dream last night…
My sister warned me that pregnancy can really mess with your dreams. So maybe that’s why she was the star of my totally weird and troubling dream last night… or maybe it was just her good luck.
So, from my memory, it began with my sister going into labor. Sorry, Jess, I know you’re not pregnancy’s biggest fan and you and your hubs have no plans of adding to your brood, but in my dream, you did. Anyway, for some reason, my sister’s husband wasn’t there and instead, my mom and I had the honor of joining my sister for her birth. We rushed into this laboratory-like room where another woman was in the process of laboring. It was the quietest, weirdest thing ever. The doctor/nurse lady was pushing downwards on the lady’s stomach, as if to help push the baby out. Then, suddenly, the smallest little baby started to emerge. Obviously, the doctor/nurse grabbed the baby’s arms, which were somehow out first, and started to pull the baby from the lady. This baby literally stretched like a stretch armstrong doll (see below). Once completely out, the baby was so tiny. I think the head must have been just barely bigger than a golf ball and its body followed suit.
This is what the baby looked like being pulled out by the doctor.
Did I mention that the lady was TOTALLY silent during the process? I may have even asked why she was being so quiet. I mean, she didn’t look like she was enjoying the process, but she was not screaming out in pain.
Next, it was my sister’s turn. Lucky gal. Her labor was even quicker and quieter than the first lady. They yanked that baby out and it emerged just as tiny as the first. Then, and here’s where it gets really creepy or weird or disturbing or something, it was time to cut the umbilical cord. For some reason, the cord was attached to some location up by the chest instead of at the belly button. So, the doctor instructs my mom to cut the cord. Now, no offense at all to my mom, but she is sometimes a little spacey. At this moment, she was in full spaced form and just grabs the scissors and makes a cut in under 5 seconds. She freaks out a little and drops the scissors as she says, “I can’t do this!” I look at the incision and it just doesn’t look right. It’s obvious that she has somehow cut too deep and there is this weird flow of some kind of fluid. We all stare at each other in panic until the doctor/nurse looks at the baby and says, “We’re going to have to do heart surgery. The heart has been punctured.”
Thankfully, that’s where this weird little soap opera ended. I woke up to my sweet puppy curling up on my chest.
So I have to say, what the heck? So weird, right? I mean, I understand the silent birth of a really tiny baby is the fantasy aspect of this dream… but what’s the rest about?
Such a bizarre evening.
Symptoms
I’m feeling way better today. Yesterday, from the moment I got out of bed, I was not feeling right. Nauseous, headache, exhausted… just a funky day. But, today I’m feeling much more energetic with no headache or stomachache to speak of. I have been feeling overly lovey/needy the past few days. I’m like my husband’s little shadow, wanting to be with him every minute. Could be worse, right? But really, I’m feeling pretty good. Motivated and focused at work, happy and excited at home. All is good.
I’m ready for a one year anniversary babymoon… NOW.
Please take me there immediately.
Before we even found out we were pregnant, Mark and I decided we wanted to take a trip for our one-year anniversary this March. Now, with the baby due at the end of June, it’s even more perfect timing for a nice little celebratory babymoon, last hoorah before baby excursion. And with the below freezing temps and the snow that just won’t stop, I am more than ready to jet off… anywhere.
Now that we’ve gotten the green light from the doctor, we’re starting to attempt to plan our little trip. But, of course, I’m stuck on where to go. We don’t want to spend too much, as it wasn’t too long ago we were lounging on our honeymoon. So with that in mind, we are in search of a destination. Here are some ideas so far…
- All-Inclusive in Puerto Vallarta: Mark is concerned that we’re going to just lay around on the beach. It seems as if there are a lot of activities, but who knows. Also, Milly (Mark’s mom) is concerned about the safety in Mexico.
- A Cruise: Cruises don’t seem to be the place to be these days. There have been so many crazy stories in the news, I just don’t know how comfortable I feel with that idea. Not-to-mention the fact that it feels a bit isolated from medical help should there be an issue.
- Jamaica: I don’t know that this is a better choice than Mexico?
- Costa Rica: Again, I don’t really know anything about Costa Rica…
I need ideas that are fit for a giant pregnant lady! Thoughts??
Symptoms
Today I’m not feeling amazing. I slept really well, but for some reason, I woke up feeling really uneasy. Just not a good stomach day at all. And, I’m really tired. I am definitely wishing I was home with my husband, pets and pillow cave.
MY PILLOW ARRIVED!!
Can you tell how excited I am?
Move over, Mark! The pillow cave is here!!
Last night, the blessed pillow finally made its way to the house. After the cold delayed it by 2 days and we picked it up from our old apartment where I accidentally had it delivered, the fluffy deliciousness has found its way to my bed.
And let me say, it did not disappoint. It hugged my body and I just fell in love. I put my really thin down pillow over the head area, but honestly, it was wonderful. Every position I slept in was great and while I still woke up a couple of times to switch positions, I fell right back asleep. In comparison to the constant tossing and turning I was doing before, this was a very welcomed experience.
I now refer to the fluffy goodness as the pillow cave. I miss my pillow cave.
Also, if you can’t tell, this is the actual pillow I purchased from Amazon. Note: Free shipping with Amazon Prime AND… this is the most important one, it’s returnable!
Leachco Back ‘N Belly Contoured Body Pillow by Leachco
Only $64.99!!
The lovely pillow cave.
On another less fluffy note, my brother has been creating some stress in my life trying to pick a wedding date. Unfortunately, he keeps selecting dates that are uncomfortably close to my due date (ie: 3 weeks before, 2 weeks after, etc.). This morning we got into a bit of a fight because he asked me about the same date he had already asked me about 10 times, which I had already told him was way too close to my due date. Anyway, I of course complained to my husband about the stress my brother was causing.
Fast forward to this afternoon, my husband starts asking me questions about how long after the due date would be okay for the wedding, etc. When I asked him why, he simply replied:
I am respectfully dealing with Matt so you don’t have to. We are being very civil. He has said twice that he respects me for stepping in, so don’t worry.
Reason #965,781 why I love my husband.
Thanks for taking care of me, lovey.
Symptoms
Slept like a baby inside a person inside a pillow cave.
Our Little Babe’s Heartbeat!
Sounds like he or she really loves us!
I Love Going to the Doctor
I think pregnancy is the only time anyone ever says that. But for me, right now, it’s totally true! I know I’ve gushed over my doctor and her nurse before, but I just totally love them both. They’re so sweet and just fun to chat with. And of course, my chatty self always seems to stretch our 30 minute appointments to 45+ minutes.
But enough gushing. As of today, the baby’s heartbeat was 160 beats per minute. I have gained 8.8 lbs, which the doctor said was good. Again, not to be a total girl, but my original weight was taken naked in the morning and this was taken with jeans and a sweater… so whatever 🙂 Maybe it’s a few ounces less. Either way, the doc said I looked good, my blood pressure was perfect and things were right on track. Also, they did find traces of protein in my urine, but she said that was normal.
And, in case anyone cares, here are the questions my husband and I asked and the answers we received:
- Where can I get a breastpump that will be covered by my insurance? (NOTE: most insurance providers will either pay for part or all of your breastpump if purchased from an approved provider. Call your insurance to get more details.) Answer: Knueppel Healthcare Services Inc.
- What are your thoughts on seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy? Answer: Many people find that this helps more than just a prenatal massage and/or physical therapy. You can often get the benefits of both from a chiropractor.
- Is it okay for the chiropractor to use an ultrasound to heat/loosen your muscles? Answer: Yes, that is totally fine during pregnancy.
- I’ve been having numbness in my leg and arm, should I be worried? Answer: Not at all. There is a lot more fluid in your body, which can mess with your nerves and circulation. Likely, it is also the positioning of the baby. But don’t worry, it should go away once you deliver.
- My husband and I are thinking of going on a cruise or heading to Mexico for our one year anniversary in March. Is it okay to travel at 6.5-7 months? Answer: Yes! You might feel more comfortable at an all-inclusive, as you are more confined on a cruise and have less access to healthcare. But either is fine. Just make sure you check travel suggestions for vaccinations.
- I am supposed to stand up in my friend’s wedding on July 3rd. If I am out of the hospital by then, do you think I can still go? Answer: Absolutely! Especially if it’s not a C-Section. You might need to take it easy, but most people feel okay after a few days. But, just listen to your body.
- Are Belly Buds legit? Will the sound from the headphones be too loud for the baby? Answer: I don’t know if they do anything positive for development, but they definitely won’t do anything wrong. Go for it!
- When will my appointments switch to twice a month? Answer: At 28 weeks.
- Have you ever heard of perianal massages – using almond oil – being done to prevent tearing during childbirth? Answer: Yes. I think in some cultures they use olive oil as well. Honestly, we’ve found that tearing has a lot to do with genetics and the individual. We don’t tend to do episiotomies, but whether you’ll tear and by how much is pretty dependent on the person. We do sometimes do a perianal massage during labor to help loosen things up, but there is no evidence of whether this will help or not. Again, go for it if you’d like.
- I haven’t changed my workout at all really. I don’t do twists or certain postures in yoga if they feel weird, but I’m pretty much doing the same as I did before. Is that okay? Answer: That’s absolutely okay. You seem in-tuned with your body, so just do what feels right. Especially now, as your body hasn’t changed that significantly. But, ultimately, working out helps significantly with recovery, getting your body back and even labor itself.
I think that was everything! All in all, we had a great (and informative) appointment. AND, NEXT MONTH WE FIND OUT THE SEX!!!
Symptoms
All I’ve got to say is that I’ve been LOVING almond butter and jelly sandwiches. Something I’ve never been fond of. Mmm. Can’t get enough.
15 Weeks, 5 Days (January 8, 2014)
15 Weeks, 5 Days (January 8, 2014). I feel like my little belly is really shaping up to look pretty darn pregnant. I know that’s the point, but I was so surprised when I saw this picture, I made my husband examine it… at which point he reminded me that he knows what it looks like because he took the photo. Duh… PS: taken in the morning.
Playing House 