Author Archives: playinghousewi

13 Weeks & 4 Days

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11/17/15

  My dates probably all seem way off, but that’s only because my due date has shifted from May 17th to May 19th and has now settled in at May 20th. No complaints here… gives me more time at the end to get baby to come out naturally.

How far along: 13 Weeks & 4 Days

Total weight gain: Crap… I meant to measure this. Sorry!

Maternity clothes: They just feel so nice hugging my big belly…

Stretch marks: None yet… Holding. My. Breath.

Sleep: Sleep has been okay. Still having at least a night or two of insomnia a week… the pro? Another book down! And FINALLY, I’ve moved on from Chick Lit and actually picked up a classic. I just started reading Pride & Prejudice… thumbs up so far!

Best moment of this week: We had SUCH a great Preschool Orientation… I left feeling floaty and happy and confident with our decision.

Miss anything: Ehh… probably, but I’m not in the mood to complain!

Movement: Sometimes I think I feel little blips, but I don’t really know. It’s too hard to tell.

Food cravings: I’ve been all over the place with this one. I’ll crave one thing and by the time it’s mealtime, I’m craving something else. BUT, one thing I’ve been craving and haven’t satisfied yet is wings. I need some spicy wings.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I’ve been much better lately. Not too much to complain about.

Have you started to show yet: Big bump.

Gender: This pregnancy seems SO dang similar to my first… but who knows if that’s really any indication. I don’t know. But, I did make my gender scan appointment… secret is out on 12/29!

Labor signs: No, no.

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in, but definitely widening.

Wedding rings on or off: On… but sometimes they’re tight.

Happy or moody most of the time: I’ve been a little stressed out this week. This Saturday was this big event I help coordinate every year for a school for kiddies with cognitive disabilities. Anyway, the event is a lot of work and is quite tiring. My mood may or may not have been altered because of it.

Looking forward to: Charlie’s first day of school! Maybe anxious is a better way to explain what I’m feeling. I just hope she loves it.

12 Weeks Pregnant

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11/6/15

  

How far along: 12 Weeks!!

Total weight gain: 1lb (2 lbs total)… damn you, Halloween! Although… 0 lbs according to the doctor’s office. So… somewhere between 1-2 total.

Maternity clothes: If you’re not leggings, don’t even think about it! Fine, I do wear two pairs of maternity jeans… but only on special occasions.

Stretch marks: Lotioning to avoid such evil warrior markings.

Sleep: I’ve actually been sleeping better, but I think that’s only due to the fact that I’ve been going to bed way later this week. I’m so chronically tired. The other day, I fell asleep in the 8 minutes it takes to put C down for a nap. I woke up to her little peepers staring at me from over her bottle and her tiny finger stuck up my nose. Sheesh. NEED. MORE. SLEEP.

Best moment of this week: My cuz was here this past weekend and it was total heaven! We had such a blast and it was so amazing to see her falling in love with our girl (and vice versa). Family really is the best.

Miss anything: Hmmm… energy? I miss energy. And sandwiches. We rarely eat deli meat because of the nitrates and preservatives, but man am I craving a delicious turkey sammy… or ham and cheese. Mmm.

Movement: None!

Food cravings: I feel like I’m starting to get back to a good place. I’ve been craving salads. (Thank goodness.) The poor eating was becoming a bit much.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I’ve been much better lately. Not too much to complain about.

Have you started to show yet: I have an impossible to hide belly bump.

Gender: Today while I was sitting in C’s nursery, which will be the new baby’s nursery, I was thinking, “I’d be pretty happy if it were a boy!” I’m so indifferent. I really have no clue. I guess my instinct is saying girl… but I can’t tell what it’s based on.

Labor signs: No, no.

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in, but definitely widening.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: I’ve been good this week! Happy to have so much time to play with my cousin and love on my babes (hubs and little one). It’s been a good week.

Looking forward to: My appointment on Monday. I feel like this is such a huge milestone. I’m desperate to hear that heartbeat and feel more secure that things are going to be okay. I still feel so apprehensive about telling people, but it’s become pretty hard not to with this growing bump.

A Pregnant Momma’s Dream Come True

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10/29/15

About three weeks ago, I literally had the best day ever and my husband proved to me (for the millionth time) just how lucky I am. On Tuesday night, hubby informed me that I would not be going to work the following day and that he had a special pregnant lady surprise for me!

He had scheduled an appointment for me with my accupuncturist that I saw when I was pregnant with Charlotte in the morning. YES! I love her and it was amazing. I spent a good 2-2.5 hours with her and loved every second of it.

After my appointment, I went into the city and had lunch at one of my favorite spots. I realized that it was my first time having a casual and luxurious dining experience out by myself. I’ve grabbed a quick bite on a work break or something, but have never actually gone to a restaurant alone to just relax and enjoy. And man did I enjoy it.

It was a perfectly sunny day. I spent over an hour slowly eating my DELICIOUS food and reading my book. It was perfection. I was on Cloud 9.

After lunch, I walked around the city. Went into an antique shop, went to Urban Outfitters and bought a new sweater, went to my favorite coffee shop for a chai (and a giant oatmeal raisin cookie). I was the happiest girl on the block.

Then it was time for me to head back towards home for the MASSAGE that my husband had scheduled for me. I was so excited. SO, imagine how hard my bubble burst when they informed me that for some unknown f-ing reason, they had cancelled my appointment. The same appointment that they called the night before to confirm. And, of course, had no additional openings. <<TEARS>>

Okay, not real tears, but I got crabby. And then I felt guilty for feeling crabby. I had had such a wonderful day, I couldn’t let them ruin it. I went next door to do a little shopping at Marshalls only to discover that I was no longer in the mood. I needed to get back to my quiet, happy place. So I got in my car and headed over to a park by my house where I laid on the grass for a couple hours and read my book. I totally got back to that relaxed, unphased spot.

After my quiet time, I returned home for a Thai food takeout night! Mmmmm

All in all, the best day and best surprise ever!

11 Weeks Pregnant

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10/29/15

  How far along: 11 Weeks

Total weight gain: No additional weight this week, still 1 lb total.

Maternity clothes: I bought a pair of H&M Mama jeans last week and a few new shirts… I’m pretty happy with the new purchases!

Stretch marks: Not if I can help it!

Sleep: More insomnia this week, but I did finish two entertaining chick lit books: Life & Other Near Death Experiences and Eight Hundred Grapes – As a side, I can’t tell you the last time I read a book in two days… pretty much never. But you’d be surprised what 4 hours in the middle of the night will do for ya!

Best moment of this week: Charlie’s swim class was a blast this week! It was so sweet seeing her splash around. Also, I finally told my cousin, Aunt, Uncle and friends that I’m pregnant! I don’t know why I waited so long!

Miss anything: I’ve had the worst headache for the past two days. So maybe a healthy head? Also, my severe heartburn restricts any and all coffee intake (even decaf)… I miss my morning coffee.

Movement: None!

Food cravings: I could go for an ice cream sundae.

Anything making you queasy or sick: My headache.

Have you started to show yet: Giant bump.

Gender: Ugh who knows! haha Maybe a girl? Or is it a boy???

Labor signs: No, no.

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: I think I’ve been generally happy this week… except for today. Ugh. My parents (mainly my father) was an ass today. Imagine screaming argument level. So fun.

Looking forward to: My cousin is coming tomorrow!! We have such a fun weekend planned and I just love her to pieces. I’m really happy to see her. Plus C has her 15 month check up tomorrow. I’m looking forward to seeing her growth progress.

9 Weeks

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10/13/15
It’s appointment week! After what feels like a lot of waiting, my appointment is finally only a couple days away! And, to make it even better, Hubby surprised me with the best gift EVER!

He called into work for me (remember, I work for my parents, so that’s less awkward than it sounds) and took tomorrow off for me. Yes!!! A day off! For just me!! To relax!!!

And even better, he scheduled an appointment for me to go see the acupuncturist I saw when I was pregnant with Charlotte AND another appointment for a massage and foot scrub. I’m. In. Heaven. Already.

Being pregnant with a toddler is super tiring. I’m beyond excited (and grateful) for tomorrow.

How far along: 9 weeks

Total weight gain: I might be up a pound? I’m not totally convinced. I have such a finicky scale.

Maternity clothes: My sweet little girlfriend just brought me her bin of maternity clothes… So nice, right?? My new obsession? H&M mama maternity leggings. They’re perfection. Pair them with a cute gap maternity sweater and I’m the happiest (and most comfortable) gal around.

Stretch marks: No, but I did start getting worried yesterday. So much so, that I vowed to pick up my post-bath pregnancy moisturizing routine. I feel like since becoming a mama, I’ve been totally slacking on the moisturizing. That ends today 🙂

Sleep: I’m always tired. I just can’t get enough sleep. Why isn’t nap time a thing? 6 month maternity leaves and 1-hour afternoon naptimes for pregnant mamas. If I ruled the world…

Best moment of this week: Charlotte is officially a walker. She’s so proud, too. She is really shaping up to be such a fun little lady.

Miss anything: My energy!
Movement: sometimes I think I feel something, but I realize it’s super high, meaning it’s probably my food being digested.

Food cravings: I have mega cravings all the time. Thankfully I don’t always act on them. Right now the big one is cake. I’m going to a wedding on Saturday and let me tell you, if there isn’t cake, I’m leaving immediately. Mmmmm! Cake 🙂

Anything making you queasy or sick? I get uneasy when I’m hungry and randomly throughout the day.

Have you started to show yet: of course. You know what else is showing? How exhausting toddlers are to pregnant moms. Exhibit A: 

“Sure honey, you can empty everything out from the pantry and then throw it all over the floor… Just do it quietly so I can make dinner in peace.”

Gender: I’m back to being totally unsure.

Labor signs: Thank goodness, no!

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: How could I be crabby?? Haha I can be crabby, but this week, I’m happy.

Looking forward to: My pampered day of fun tomorrow and my appointment on Thursday!’

8 Weeks!!

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10/6/15
I know that 8 weeks doesn’t sound that far along, but during my first pregnancy and now, it feels like a big accomplishment. I still haven’t had my first doctor’s appointment yet, meaning no confirmation of a heartbeat, BUT, my belly keeps growing and I have daily bouts of nausea. PLEASE say that’s a good sign!

How far along: 8 weeks! 2 big months!

Total weight gain: 0… maybe .2 lbs, but my scale isn’t that good that I trust it.

Maternity clothes: Gotta love those over-the-belly pants. I’m not wearing them every day, but my b-bump is getting pretty in charge for 8 weeks. Add in my end-of-day bloat, and regular pants just don’t work..

Stretch marks: None (fingers crossed)

Sleep: Mark was out of town this weekend, so that didn’t help. I was up literally 5-7 times per night. Now I’m at about 2-3 times per night. Ughhh. SO.DAMN.TIRED.

Best moment of this week: Mark came home yesterday! It was really nice to have him home! And Miss C took about 6-7 steps across the room! She was so excited. Her face was literally beaming. She was proud.

Miss anything: With the way I’ve been indulging, how could I miss anything?

Movement: Not yet!

Food cravings: Gummy bears & candy, chocolate milkshakes, dessert, BAGELS (in a big way)… everything.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Late afternoon and evening. Just existing during those times. And my prenatals.

Have you started to show yet: Holy cow… yes. It’s so shocking.

Gender: I’m thinking a little lady. My symptoms feel so much like they did with Charlotte. And, according to the Chinese Gender Predictor Chart, it’s a girl… and you know that’s legit.

Labor signs: Thank goodness, no!

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: I’ve been good. Charlotte has been such a sweet little munchkin. It’s been really sweet and heartwarming to be around her.

Looking forward to: Dinner with my girlfriend and her family on Friday! And potentially seeing Dirty Dancing the musical on Thursday! AND!! Most importantly, my first doctor’s appointment is NEXT WEEK!

7 Weeks & 3 Big Days

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10/2/15

How far along: 7 weeks, 3 days

Total weight gain: 0 (but you wouldn’t guess it by looking at me… I have a legit baby bump!)

Maternity clothes: Yes and no… My maternity pants don’t really fit that well, BUT, my normal pants are not very comfortable. I legitimately look pregnant already… at 7 weeks! What the heck?

Stretch marks: Nope (please, please, please stay that way!)

Sleep: Still waking up 1-2 times per night. Most nights I can fall right back to sleep, some nights I’m up for an hour, 2 or more!

Best moment of this week: I had dinner with a girlfriend (Katie) on Monday and then a farewell dinner for my friends Tricia and Dylan (who are moving to TX) on Tuesday. Both were a lot of fun! Down side of the week? Mark is headed out of town today through the weekend, meaning I’ll be exhausted/pregnant/alone with crazy munchie C this weekend. Send me strength!

Miss anything: I don’t think so! I had a wine craving the other day, but nothing crazy.

Movement: I had a dream that I was feeling the baby kick. It felt super real. But I guess the answer is still no. The little blueberry is still too small.

Food cravings: This past weekend, I was really craving some Jewish deli yums. So much so, that I sent Mark out for Matzah Ball Soup, Corned Beef & Cabbage and Fried Matzah. Yum!

Anything making you queasy or sick: I’m on and off uneasy throughout the day.

Have you started to show yet: YES! How? I don’t know, but literally, two people have commented on my “bump.” It’s insane. I look like I did at 15 weeks with C.


 Gender: At first, based on absolutely nothing, I thought boy. But, I’m really starting to feel like this pregnancy is pretty identical to last in terms of my symptoms. So I might have to switch over to say girlie.

Labor signs: Thank goodness, no!

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: I think happy! I don’t know… ask my husband…

Looking forward to: Mark getting home from his trip. Yes, he just left today… well, actually, he hasn’t even taken off yet. But I really like it when he’s home. Also, I’m looking forward to telling my siblings. I had planned to tell them two weeks ago and then I chickened out. Now I feel like I waited too long.

10 Weeks Pregnant

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10/22/15

  How far along: 10 Weeks

Total weight gain: 1 lb… I definitely blame this 1″ baby… not the excessive carbs I’ve been downing. That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!

Maternity clothes: H&M Mama leggings have my heart.

Stretch marks: I’ve been lotioning!

Sleep: UGH! PREGNANCY INSOMNIA, I HATE YOU! Seriously, the struggle is real. Every few days, I wake up at 12, 1, 2 am and am awake for literally 3-4 hours. It’s horrible. I’m so tired anyway and then add that… ugh. Plus side, I’ve been reading a lot.

Best moment of this week: Our first doc visit!!!!!! YAY!! Baby is healthy and heart is beating! First relief milestone hit!

Miss anything: Sleep! I feel like I dread going to sleep.

Movement: I don’t think so. But I swear, sometimes these gas bubbles really throw me.

Food cravings: I really love cake.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I switched prenatals and that’s REALLY been helping!

Have you started to show yet: Ummm YES. It’s hard to hide this beast of a bump!

Gender: I’m back to thinking girl!

Labor signs: No, no.

Belly button in or out: Very deeply in.

Wedding rings on or off: On!

Happy or moody most of the time: Happy??? Mark?

Looking forward to: My cousin is coming next week!!

The 3am News

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9/12/15

On Wednesday, September 9th at 3 am, we got news that will forever change our lives, hearts, and future. Our little Charlie is gaining a sibling 🙂

Now, it might seem weird that the news came at 3am… and that’s because it is weird. I had been feeling sick for a week, so I decided to buy some pregnancy tests. I planned to wait until Thursday, which was the day I was expecting my period… BUT, for those of you who remember the last time (when I took 10 pregnancy tests before testing positive), I have an issue with patience.

Anyway, I woke up at 3 am to pee (I will discuss this and other pre-pregnancy symptoms in another post), and decided… why not test now? I mean… it’s the good morning pee. I didn’t want to waste it.

So, I quietly unwrapped the test, did my thing and waited. I walked back and forth from one side of the bathroom to the other. Finally, I let my eyes reach the test: Pregnant. I can’t explain the feeling in one word. At first it was like, “duh”… I knew I was. And then came the “holy crap!” factor… not scared, but kind of “here we go again!” And of course excitement! So much excitement that I was awake for the next 2.5 hours googling, downloading baby apps, and trying to distract myself.

I duplicated my message to hubs from last time, but instead of putting the announcement sign near the toilet (which didn’t work as planned last time), I put it near the toothbrushes. After reaching over the sign and pregnancy test three times, he finally saw the message and ran out of the bathroom with a full face of toothpaste and half screamed, “REALLY?!” with a big sudsy smile!

The sign when I told Hubs we were pregnant with Charlie:

amazing dad

The sign to announce our newest miracle:

  
We’re really happy and really lucky. We literally just started trying this month. Mark said I must have hungry eggs. haha Nice, huh?

We let Charlie break the news to the parents:

  

Pre-Pregnancy Symptoms

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9/14/15

If you’re anything like me, waiting the two weeks in between conception and your (potential) missed period is a challenge. Patience just isn’t my thing.

My husband likes to tease me and say that I thought I was pregnant with my first little love before I actually conceived. This may be true, but what I can say for certain, is that this time around, my symptoms were legit.

  • Spaciness, Forgetfulness: This is a symptom that I could probably blame on lack of sleep or just having an off day… but these past couple weeks have been pretty absurd. I’ll say something and literally 5 seconds later, I have no idea what I was talking about. It’s like my mind totally goes blank.
  • Headaches: As with my first, the week before my positive pregnancy test was filled with pretty bad headaches. Knowing that I potentially could be pregnant also prevented any treatment (no ibuprofen for pregnant ladies!). Not fun.
  • Nausea: This is the biggest symptom for me. I mean, on a normal day, I don’t feel like vomitting, so when I’m suddenly fighting back chunks at all hours of the day, I start to wonder. Honestly, the symptoms came right when Gramps was in the hospital, so I thought there was a 5% chance it could be stress. But my gut was saying pregnancy.
  • Frequent Peeing: For my first pregnancy, this was a total non-issue for me until I got ginormous. Now, at 5 weeks pregnant, I’m already waking up every single night at least once (sometimes twice). Oh I dislike this symptom.
  • Insomnia: In the past two weeks, I’ve had at least 4 nights where I’ve sat up for 2+ hours in the middle of the night completely and totally unable to sleep. Last night was one of those nights… I’m in zombie mode today.
  • Sore Boobs: This was a non-issue for me with my first pregnancy. This time around, it’s not terrible, but what I’ve noticed is that my breasts feel tender when I’m nursing my sweet Charlotte.
  • Bloating: To say I’m bloated by the end of the day would be a complete understatement.