39 Weeks Pregnant (11 weeks later...)

This is a bit late... but somehow I forgot to post this 11 weeks ago! Things got a little bit busy!  
 Baby Bump

How far along? 39 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A Watermelon!

Maternity clothes? Yes.  But I also fit into a couple pre-preggo skinny jeans! Weird!  But to be honest, this week's outfits consisted mostly of yoga pants and sweatshirts.  The "not-working" wardrobe is amazing.
Stretch marks? Nope!  Yippppppeeee! 
Sleep: I actually slept amazingly well two nights this week!  The other nights were not so good.  Maybe 2 hours a night.  Ugh.
Symptoms: Backache, heartburn, exhaustion, mood swings, headache, ridiculously stuffy nose, oh the list goes on... this week was not very comfortable.  I also had false labor on Ash Wednesday... such a tease!
Best moment this week: My Momma arriving!
Miss Anything? Sleeping, 
Food cravings: Lucky Charms cereal, jujufruits candy, bananas, anything sweet!
Any aversions? My stomach was in shut down mode this week... maybe that's a good sign? I was very nauseous and could only eat small amounts without feeling sick.
Have you started to show yet: This belly is no joke.  
Baby Names? Down to our top 3!
Belly Button in or out? It's outta this world.

Linea Nigra? Yes!  Seemed darker this week too!
Wedding rings on or off? On!  I'm so happy I haven't had any problems with this!  
Happy or Moody most of the time: This week I may have had a few outbursts... my frustration is at an all time high, mainly because a) I am sick of texts/calls saying "any baby yet?" and b) I hate spending my maternity leave without a baby in my arms!  Oh well.  He's coming at some point!
Movement: All day every day!
Looking forward to: I'll give you ONE guess!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  When you go in to labor, wait to go to the hospital as long as possible. 
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: My favorite part will forever be feeling little Bambino move around inside me :)  
Any Braxton Hicks contractions?  TONS.  And definitely more painful this week. 
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Mmmm Hmmm
Any weird dreams? Not too many- but like I said, I haven't been sleeping much!
Over being pregnant? Yes. It's time to be a Mommy now.  
Nesting? Definitely, and especially in the last few days.  Hopefully this  is a good thing!
Car Seat Installed? Yes!
Hospital Bag Packed? Done today!
Dilated/Effaced? (And sorry if this is TMI): 1.5cm / 40% effaced!  Woo... change is happening!
Still Running? No running... but it's awesome to think in a couple months I'll be back on the streets! Was still able to workout every day this week - elliptical for an hour each day and weights twice!  I feel more out of breath when I workout, but I feel so empowered and strong when I'm at the gym! To be honest, my main motive is to bounce baby out.

Letter to Baby

My dearest baby boy,

Well, I'm still pregnant with you.  Is it that cozy in my belly?  It sure looks like it's getting cramped in there!  I promise it's way more comfortable on the outside!  This week you hogged all of my energy to put on more weight.  Your little brain and lungs are ready for action, so now you're just packing on cute little padding everywhere.  I wonder how much you will weigh?  I don't feel too incredibly gigantic, but who's to say! My doctor said last week that you'll be around 7 pounds which sounds great!  However, if you decide to be super late and stay inside another 2 weeks... things could get tricky!

Tomorrow marks 40 weeks pregnant with you! I've been feeling lots of changes this week so I'm hoping things will get moving soon!  I always wonder if birth will be traumatic for you... I can't imagine it's fun getting squeezed by contractions and entering a world where you have to eat on your own, stay warm, and be protected!  I wouldn't want to leave the womb either if everything was taken care of for me! 

Your Dad is getting really excited to buy you your first snowmachine, gun, and four-wheeler.  Yes, he has big plans for you.  I'm already starting to feel out-numbered with all the boys in our house!  Luckily, you're going to be stuck with a mom that is going to teach you lots of important things too... like how to run, swim, cook, play sports, and take pictures, and travel the world.  

I'm really hoping this will be my last letter to you from the inside... we are dying to meet you Bambino!  Love you more than you'll ever know!

Always & Forever,

Mom & Dad

Pregnancy Week 38

Okay, this post is about 3 weeks late... but things got very busy! I forgot to post the last two entries  so here they are.  And I have good news... our little bundle is finally here!  I'll introduce him to you soon! :)
 Baby Bump

How far along? 38 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A Pumpkin!

Maternity clothes? Yes.  I was in love with the leggings this week.  So comfy.
Stretch marks? Nope!
Sleep: No. I don't want to talk about it unless it will put me to sleep.  
Symptoms: Achy pelvis and hips, heartburn, headaches, acne... my body is officially in freak-out mode.
Best moment this week: Deciding I am going to stop working at 39 weeks!  Maybe I will finally get some rest!
Miss Anything? Picking up the phone and not having to say "No, no baby yet."
Food cravings: Coconut Milk Ice Cream.  OMG. Try it.  You won't be disappointed.  Also I'm hooked on black tea (decaf) with soy milk creamer and agave syrup.  Random, I know.  
Any aversions? Most food doesn't sound very good these days... my tummy has no room to expand!
Have you started to show yet: Yes and if I'm not careful, my shirts ride up and you can see what looks like a beer gut.  
Baby Names? We'll pick once he's here!
Belly Button in or out? Out out out out out.

Linea Nigra? Yep and as crooked as ever!
Wedding rings on or off? On!  No finger swelling!
Happy or Moody most of the time: I am definitely more moody, but not too bad.  It's just more from being tired and starting to feel a little bit uncomfortable. 
Movement: Like a kick-boxing pro.
Looking forward to: I'll give you ONE guess!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Don't listen to anyone's advice with a new baby... he's your baby and your instinct won't let you down.  
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Seeing his little feet poke around!
Any Braxton Hicks contractions?  Yes, getting more and more but frustrated that not much is happening in the way of dilation!  
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? There's definitely a waddle to my step.
Any weird dreams? I feel like I dreamt a lot this week but I can't remember any of them!
Over being pregnant? I've loved the last 9 months, but I am beyond ready to meet our little bambino now.
Nesting? Yes!  A few nights of non-stop cleaning this week.
Car Seat Installed? Yes!
Hospital Bag Packed? Partially!  
Dilated/Effaced? (And sorry if this is TMI): No. Notta thing.
Still Running? No more running for this Momma.  Did the elliptical 6x and weights 2x.  Feeling more and more fatigued but once I work out I feel good again!

Letter to Baby

Baby, baby, baby...

Why you gotta drive me crazy?  Just kidding... You don't drive me crazy at all.  But I definitely want to meet you!  I'm starting to think that since I had such an easy pregnancy, you're making me wait as long as possible to make your grand entrance.  I know I still have a week until my due date but you definitely seem comfy and cozy inside and don't seem to want to make a move any time soon! I think my biggest mistake throughout the pregnancy was listening to everyone who told me, "You are going to be so early!"  Luckily, I know you won't be inside me forever and before you know it I will be snuggling you in my arms.  And I'm happy you're going to be fully developed with big strong lungs!

This week you continued to put on weight and allowed your brain and lungs to develop a little bit more. Your tear ducts formed this week which will help your teeny tiny tears drain out of your eyes.  I wonder what your cry will sound like.  I hear Mom's say they think their baby's cry is the cutest in the whole world.  Will you have the cutest cry?  I'm sure I will think so, but I hope you don't cry too much!  

This week is my last week of work!  I don't think words can express how excited I am to be done working for a few months. I was hoping to work up until you actually arrive, but I haven't been able to sleep at night so it's making work a lot more challenging. That, and it's pretty hard to carry you around all day!  Being done working means you're finally coming, which makes me the happiest girl in the world!  As much as I love my job and coworkers, I'm sure I'm going to love being a Mom more!  

I'm going to say it now, in case you (hopefully) come in the next week:
Little Bambino, I have loved carrying you around for the past 9 months.  From the moment we saw two pink lines on the pregnancy test, we've fallen madly in love with you.  Seeing your heartbeat on the ultrasound monitor took our breath away and we knew we could never live without you. I loved seeing my body change and grow each week as I felt you come alive inside me. With every tiny kick, little hiccup, and wave of the hands, I have been reassured that you are growing safely inside me.  God has blessed us beyond measure with the gift of new life and I have cherished the time we've shared connected as one.  You are my other third, my future best friend, my whole world.  I cannot wait to meet you face-to-face and begin sharing the rest of our lives together. 

We love you more than you will ever know!

Always & Forever,

Mom & Dad

Pregnancy Week 37

  Baby Bump

How far along? 37 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A winter Melon!

Maternity clothes? Yep.  If it were up to me, I'd live in sweatpants all day long.  But that doesn't exactly qualify as work attire.
Stretch marks? No! None!
Sleep: Things have gone from bad to worse.  I've been sleeping less than 3 hours/night.  I wish I had a good reason (other than peeing every 2 hours), but really I just lay there staring blankly into the dark.  I can't figure it out!  If anyone has advice, please let me know!
Symptoms: Super exhausted, no appetite, heartburn, and headaches
Best moment this week: Feeling baby "drop!"  I can breathe again, woo woo!
Miss Anything? Definitely missed running this week.
Food cravings: Froyo.  I had it for dinner twice this week again...  Super healthy, I know, but it makes me happy.  
Any aversions? Fish, fish, and more fish. Also kind of turned off to coffee lately!
Have you started to show yet:  Holy cow, yes.
Baby Names? Nothing official!
Belly Button in or out? Outie McOuterson.

Linea Nigra? Yep!
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy but tired.  
Movement: There's a tsunami in my belly!
Looking forward to: Baby's birthday!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Without going into too much detail but after giving birth things are a wee bit sore so I was told to take colace religiously and use dermoplast and tucks pads.  Oh the joys of giving birth... :)
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Kicks, kicks, and more kicks! 
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes, definitely there. Some more uncomfortable ones this week too.
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Yep I am.
Any weird dreams? Not as many dreams this week, mainly because I haven't been sleeping!
Over being pregnant? I hate to say it, but I think I'm there.  I am really feeling ready to meet our little man.
Nesting? Yes, most definitely.  
Car Seat Installed? Done!  
Hospital Bag Packed? No... I still need to do that... haha.
Dilated/Effaced? (And sorry if this is TMI) Nope and nope. Come on baby, let's do this! 
Still Running? Nope.  Got in the elliptical 6x and weights 2x, but it was harder this week.  I'm having trouble getting up at my usual 5:30 wake up time when I don't get much sleep!  

Letter to Baby

Hello little one,

We're getting so close!  You are officially full term which means all of the important developments have been done... now you're busy practicing your breathing, sucking, sleeping, gazing and peeing abilities. Good work, son.  Good work.  

This week was a hard week for your Momma.  I got very little sleep but I'm not going to blame it directly on you. :) I can actually get pretty comfortable thanks to the 24,914 pillows I use every night. But for some reason I wake up around 2am and I'm usually up for anywhere from 4-5 hours.  Then it's time to get up for work.  It's been interesting seeing patients on such little sleep (and by interesting... I mean very difficult!). Luckily there is a light at the end of the tunnel and I know it won't last forever! Pretty soon your little cries will be keeping me up instead!

This week we put a lot of finishing touches on the nursery and it looks great!  I can't wait to show you when you get here.  My new favorite spot to sit (besides my birthing ball that your awesome Auntie gave me) is in the glider in your room.  I love to sit and rock back and forth, back and forth, especially when I can't sleep at night.  I like to think it is getting you used to the movement for when you get here.  It will be wonderful.  Another part of the room I love is your book collection.  It's still a work in progress, but you'll learn quickly that your Dad and I love to read.  Get ready for bedtime stories every single night. 

There's just 2 weeks until your due date and I am beyond ready to have you here in my arms.  I want to hold your little hands, kiss your sweet little nose, and snuggle you forever. Your Dad and I have been appreciating the last few weeks of time to ourselves so I understand if you want a little longer to grow.  All I ask is that you arrive healthy and ready for non-stop love. Can you handle that?  

Love you little one,

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 36

  Baby Bump

How far along? 36 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A Honeydew Melon!

Maternity clothes? Every. Single. Day.
Stretch marks? No, holding strong!
Sleep: Oh my.  This will probably be a battle for the remainder of my pregnancy!  I've had a ton of trouble falling asleep at night, then I wake up around 2,4, and 6 to pee!
Symptoms: That first trimester exhaustion is back... except it's like 1st trimester on steroids.  Plus lots of pressure in my pelvis.  And I may as well set up an office in the bathroom because Baby thinks my bladder is a squeeze toy.  
Best moment this week: More progress on the nursery!  Almost done... it looks so cute!  I can't wait to show the final product!
Miss Anything? Strangely this week I missed all of my old clothes.  I can't wait to have a wardrobe that consists of more than a few pairs of pants!  I also missed my usual energy.  It's gone.  See ya.
Food cravings: I may have had froyo for dinner 3x this week.  Don't judge.  Baby wants what he wants.  I also craved Lucky Charms cereal and the most random of all... grits.  I don't think I've ever actually eaten them before, but holy cow... I had to get my hands on them this week.  DELISH.
Any aversions? Strangely enough, coffee is starting to sound yucky again!  Feels like the first trimester all over again.  Also almost puked when I was cooking some Deer meat for Jake.  Not. Good.
Have you started to show yet:  My basketball is always in tow!
Baby Names? Nothing official!
Belly Button in or out? Outie is starting to look like a second stomach!

Linea Nigra? Yep!
Wedding rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Pretty happy with an occasional side of moodiness when I'm hungry and nothing sounds good.  Then I just buy some froyo and all is well in the world again.
Movement: Okay, I know they say baby is supposed to slow down towards the end of the pregnancy, but I kid you not... this baby is out of control!  Sometimes I wonder if he takes naps!  My belly is moving and shaking all day long.
Looking forward to: One thing- having this baby!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  After baby has been swaddled in a blanket, put it in a ziploc and bring it home.  Allow Diego to smell it then put it on his toy so 1) he gets used to the baby's smell, and 2) he associates the smell with something that makes him happy!  I thought that was a great tip!  
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Seeing my cutie dance in my belly.  
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes, definitely there.
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Yes.... but I got my speed back now that my sacrum is feeling better!  I may have a waddle to my step, but I am a quick waddler.
Any weird dreams? This week my dreams were crazy!  Tons.  Dreams about Jake's job, dreams about baby being born, dreams about Africa... the list goes on!
Over being pregnant? I'm doing okay!  I'm officially feeling ready now that the baby shower is over and he has everything he needs!
Nesting? HA! Like you wouldn't believe.  I can't sit still for two seconds.  Cabinets need to be cleaned, bathrooms scrubbed, rooms organized, baby clothes washed, nursery set up... my oh my.  It's out of control.
Car Seat Installed? YES!  Did it this week!  I knew if I didn't do it now, I would totally leave it in the garage when it was go time.  
Hospital Bag Packed? No... I better get on that.  
Still Running? Nope.  But working out like a champ - elliptical 6x and weights 2x!  Sacrum feels SO much better!  I am so so so happy :)  I can't wait to run after he's born!

Letter to Baby

Hey Baby!

So we need to have a talk.  Although I'm sure Mom's ribs are fun to kick as hard as you can, I'd sure love it if you would lay off a bit.  I can't believe how strong your getting! Sometimes it feels like your going to leap out of my belly!  Apart from the hard kicks, I really love feeling you kick. I honestly think I'm going to miss having you inside me when you decide to make your grand entrance!  But I'm pretty sure the kisses on your cute little cheeks will make up for it :)

This week you starting shedding most of the downy coat of hair that has kept you warm for the past 9 months. You're also doing what you do best... putting on weight!  It's hard to say how much you are going to weigh since your last ultrasound was almost 2 months ago now!  I don't think I've told you this, but your Momma was almost 10 pounds at birth... Eek!  Your Dad was 6 pounds, so maybe you'll meet in the middle and be 8 pounds!  

Your Dad and I have been busy working and getting things ready in the house!  Even though we've been moved into the new house for over 5 months now, we're still trying to make it feel like "home!"  Your nursery is almost done, we just have a few more finishing touches!  I'm starting to get more exhausted at work, but luckily this week was more slow than usual so I was able to leave a little bit early.

There are many lessons that I hope you learn in your life, but here are a few very important ones to get you started:

1.) Love God. He's the big man upstairs that sent you to us.  Have faith and trust that he knows best. That may not be easy and you will probably have times where you question things... which is completely normal!  But if there is ever a time in your life where things don't make sense, trust that, in time, he will have the answers.  

2.) Listen to those wiser than you.  They have been around the block a time or two and you can learn a lot! 

3.) Respect Women.  This is probably one of the biggest lessons in life I hope you learn.  You have an amazing role model, your Dad, who practices this daily.  Unfortunately, you will meet many men who don't practice this and it's pretty devastating.  When you find an amazing woman, get to know her and learn from her.  Respect her desires and needs, just as I'm sure she will do for you.  Open her car door for her, hold her hand in public, and tell her what she means to you.

4.) Don't judge.  This one is simple.  Until you've walked a mile in their shoes, you have no right to make assumptions. One of my favorite quotes is, "Never look down on someone unless you are helping them up."  

5.) Help others.  Your Dad and I want you to be whoever you want to be. Artist, Doctor, Accountant, Construction Worker, Plumber, Vet, Chef... whatever makes you happy.  But in whatever you do, always strive to help others.  Volunteer.  Make someone smile who is not as fortunate as you are.  Do this, and you will always feel fulfilled.

6.) Know that no matter what, we will love you to the ends of the earth. Always. 

Until next week,

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 35

  Baby Bump

How far along? 35 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A coconut!

Maternity clothes? YES. YES. YES.
Stretch marks? Nope! Ittttchhhyyy skin though.
Sleep: Not awesome.  For some reason I have to pee every two seconds.  I wonder why that could be... 
Symptoms: My dearest friend Mr. Heartburn, digestion system on overdrive, increased BH contractions, and thirrrsttty.
Best moment this week: Baby Shower!  SO MUCH FUN!  Baby is so so so loved!
Miss Anything? Haha, I have a feeling this list is going to grow exponentially in the next few weeks. Mainly I miss my energy, sleeping, bending to touch my toes, walking up stairs without getting winded... RUNNING... but overall, it's just silly details that I can live without because baby will be here so soon!
Food cravings: Angel food cake with cool whip (I know, can I be more specific?), pears, root beer, carrots dipped in hummus.  Mmm.
Any aversions? Fish.  Maybe some day I'll want to eat it again.  Also food just doesn't sound good in general. It's an every day challenge to find something that sounds appealing.  I have to have it in front of me to want to eat anything (except for the food above, but that hardly counts as a healthy diet).  When your stomach is being kicked and squished by a certain someone... it's hard to find food appealing!
Have you started to show yet:  Gang's all here!
Baby Names? List is down to 5 names! Can't wait to figure out what he looks like on his Birthday!
Belly Button in or out? Outie is quickly getting bigger...

Linea Nigra? Yes! And I had someone say to me at the gym, "Your line is crooked!"  Haha yes, yes it is.
Wedding rings on or off? On!  They're actually a little loose lately too.
Happy or Moody most of the time: A great week overall!  Happy as a clam!  A stuffed clam that is.
Movement: He wins the award for high jump (in utero).  He seriously can't sit still!
Looking forward to:  Kissing his sweet cheeks and teeny button nose.
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Don't be afraid of the labor process.  And also, don't be afraid to ask for an epidural.  It's nothing to be ashamed of!
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Realizing I'm going to be a MOM in less than 4 weeks!  
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes, and some stronger ones this week.
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Quack Quack.  Yes.
Any weird dreams? I've been dreaming about Baby's birth a lot.  This week I actually saw his little face and it was ADORABLE.  Ahhhhh so excited.
Over being pregnant? Still hanging in there!  I'd be happy if he came any time, but I know realistically I probably have another month or more!  First babies are always late (or so they say!)
Still Running? No, although my sacral pain is doing better finally!  I can actually stand and walk without crying!  YAY! Thank heavens for my PT.  I somehow managed to fit in the elliptical every day and weights 3 times this week!

Letter to Baby

Hi Bambino!

This week it was made obvious JUST how much you are loved.  We had our baby shower which was SO much fun.  You got lots of pats and rubs from our family and friends.  I think you even gave a few high-fives to my friends which freaked a couple of them out.  It's amazing that I can actually see your little hands pushing out and waving hello.  (Creepy too...haha!).  You are officially spoiled ROTTEN and have enough clothes, toys, and goodies to last a long time.  Also, I hope you like safari animals as much as your Dad and I do, because you have more giraffe, elephants, and monkey-themed goodies than you'll ever know what to do with!  :)

This week you've achieved which will likely be your birth height!  You won't lengthen out much more (which is good because you're running out of room! Oh and on that note... lay off my ribs, kiddo!), but you will pack on the pounds. It's hard to believe that just when I feel you can't get any bigger, you sprout out even more!  You should be just under 6 pounds by now, but we'll have to wait and see.  Your ears are now fully developed  and the 2 things that make you a little boy have descended and developed! :) One of the biggest developments that happened this week was in your brain - all of your brain cells are becoming more advanced!  You're becoming our little Einstein as we speak. 

We are getting closer to deciding your name, but we're still not sure.  Just as so many things are unknown with your future!  Who will you look like?  Will you be a mini-me with curly hair and dimples?  Or a green-eyed lookalike to your handsome Dad?  Or maybe you'll have different parts of each us. What will you act like? Will you be silly and occasionally shy like your Dad?  Or will you be more outgoing but a homebody like me?  Will you be musically challenged (Dad) or love to sing (me)?  Will you want to be a Doctor? Artist? Engineer? Athlete? Whatever you choose to be, I can't wait to spend the rest of my life being your proud Momma.  

Love you little one,

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 34

  Baby Bump

How far along? 34 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A butternut squash!

Maternity clothes? Mmm hmmm..
Stretch marks? Nope!
Sleep: Not so good. Pretty tough finding a position that doesn't hurt my sacrum/low back :( That and every night around 2am I woke up ravenous.  Baby must be growing! 
Symptoms: More short of breath, restless legs at night (but luckily it goes away when I lie down!), & I can't find a meal that sounds good
Best moment this week: Our weekend getaway to Homer!
Miss Anything? Being pain-free.  I'm such a whiner, sorry.  But it hurrrttttsssss :(
Food cravings: Bread, chocolate soymilk, and coconut ice cream. YUM.
Any aversions? Anything that smells strong. No Italian, fish, Indian, or Mexican for this girl.  Pretty much all foods with a smell sound awful.  Makes eating out a challenge!
Have you started to show yet:  Totally and completely.
Baby Names? We added another to our unofficial list!  Now we have like 6 to choose from when he arrives :)
Belly Button in or out? Love my little outie!

Linea Nigra? Yes and getting a little darker!
Wedding rings on or off? On! My fingers are usually pretty swollen in the morning right when I wake up.  But by the time I'm up and walking around they're back to normal.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy, happy, happy!  But not happy when I feel like my pelvis is going to split in half.  
Movement: SOOO much.  I LOVE IT.
Looking forward to:  Delivery day!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Be selfish and take time for you NOW!  Get a massage if you can, rest on the couch without feeling guilty, and sleep in!  (I can't seem to let myself slow down, so I reallllyyyyy need to find a way to listen to this).
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Seeing the kicks get stronger and stronger!  
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes, they're here!  
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Yes.  I wanted to avoid waddling but there's no denying it now.
Any weird dreams? Not that I can remember this week
Over being pregnant? Not yet.  I feel great except for the sacral pain so if that weren't an issue I'd be okay with it all!  But I think my answer is going to change here in the next couple weeks...
Still Running? No :(  I'm able to do the elliptical and upper body weights without pain (as long as I wear my sacral support brace).  Running is officially off the list for a while.  Probably not until after baby at this point which I AM OKAY WITH!  I can barely walk let alone think of running right now.

Letter to Baby

Baby, baby, baby!!

34 weeks with you inside and only 6 more to go!  Do you think you'll be early?  I'd really be okay with that at this point, so feel free to come when you're ready! I know most Moms are late for their first baby so it could be a while, but I'm hoping that I'll get to meet you a little before you're due date. By now you're settling into the birth position with your head down.  I can tell you are there because you have the hiccups at least twice a day and I can feel the little spasms right next to my bladder!  The fine, soft hair that once covered your body for warmth is now almost completely gone!  Your immune system is taking charge for itself instead of relying on my me and the placenta.  You are becoming your own man already :)

Your Dad, Diego, and I got away this week for a much-needed vacation in Homer, AK.  It's a small little fishing town about 5 hours south of where we live and it was beautiful!  It is a bit of a ghost town in the winter but during the summer it is full of fishermen and tourists.  Your Dad and I plan to take you there this summer, so you'll get to see it soon enough!  We stayed in a beautiful condo right on the water so we got to hear the waves crashing all night long.  We ate delicious meals, walked on the beach with Diego (who was in HEAVEN) and explored the empty town.  It was just perfect.  It was our last trip with just the three of us which is bittersweet, so we took advantage of the time we had to sleep in and relax.  I'm going to miss the alone time with your Dad but I know life will be so much better with you around.  

Next week is your baby shower and I am so excited!  Be prepared to hear lots of "ooooh and ahhhhhs."  You are so loved, little one, and I can't wait for you to meet all the wonderful people in our lives!  

Hugs and kisses

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 33

  Baby Bump

How far along? 33 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A durian fruit.  He's also the size of a pineapple for those of us that have never seen one of these before!

Maternity clothes? Yep yep yep!
Stretch marks? No, skin is looking good!
Sleep: Okay this week, but still having trouble falling asleep at night.  Also waking up to pee a lot more now...
Symptoms: The horrendous sacral pain is back.  
Best moment this week: SEEING BABY ON ULTRASOUND!!!!!!
Miss Anything? I definitely missed a lot this week for some reason.  Probably because I feel like a gimp with my limping from the sacral pain.  Mainly missing my long runs and training!  Also missing the comfortable sleeping positions.
Food cravings: Anything pickled. And you know how I was completely against hot chocolate for my entire pregnancy thus far?  Well I'm officially a hot chocolate lover again!  Can't get enough!  
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No fishies or seafood for this girl.  BLEH. 
Any aversions? Cheerios, really pungent foods like curry/Indian food, and can't do anything spicy lately.
Have you started to show yet:  Maybe a little? ;)
Baby Names? Nothing official!
Belly Button in or out? Yes. As my coworkers say, "You're baby timer is done!" Just like the turkey pop-out timer, my belly button tells me that baby is almost fully cooked!

Linea Nigra? Yeppers. 
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Pretty happy... SUPER excited for baby now!  But the tears are frequent.
Movement: OH MY GOSH.  Baby is out of control!  Sometimes I wonder if he's going to tap his way out through my belly button or something! 
Looking forward to:  Meeting OUR BABY!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Take your time when getting back into exercise.  Don't give into the pressure of getting back to your pre-baby body within a week.  It's just not realistic.  If you do anything, do KEGALS! (Eek.  I am looking forward to running/exercise again more than anything!  But I know that this person was right.  Pregnancy and birth are traumatic and the body needs a lot of time to recover.)
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Seeing baby grow and looking at him on Ultrasound!
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes!  I'm sure I'm getting them now.  There's no denying that hard-as-a-rock belly when they come.
Feet Swelling? Nope!

Have you started to "waddle"? Okay, I finally started waddling this week.  But it's only because I am in such excruciating sacral pain that I can't walk like a normal person (my sacrum clicks and moves when I walk thanks to good 'ol Relaxin hormone causing the ligaments to stretch out and become unstable. Ow.)
Any weird dreams? I had one about going into labor at work.  Good thing I work with two family practice docs/obstetricians! 
Over being pregnant? No!  Feeling good (other than the sacral pain).
Still Running? No :( Well I ran 2x this week (3 miles, 3 miles), then I screwed up my sacrum at spin class and almost fell on the ice so I messed it up even more :(

Letter to Baby

Hello little one!

How was your week?  From the feel of it you are becoming quite the little gymnast. I sometimes stare down at my belly wondering what on earth you are doing in there.  I'll show you videos some day and maybe you'll remember what was making you jump about!  Your eyes are now staying open while you're awake and you're starting to have more coordinated breathing with sucking and swallowing!  Soon enough you'll get to use them in the real world :)

This week was the best week your Dad and I have had in a while.  Guess why?  We got to see you on Ultrasound again!  You were kicking up a storm and showing off all of your new tricks like sucking your thumb, gripping with the umbilical cord, and playing hide and seek.  You mostly like to hide though because you kept turning your cute face away!  We did get a few good profile shots though!  You are as beautiful as can be and we can't wait to see you for real!  You also showed off how you can already breathe in and out - pretty amazing if you ask me!  I have a feeling you're going to be a big kiddo... you were already measuring at 5 pounds!  And you have 7 weeks to go!  No wonder I get so tired... you're stealing all of my food!  I don't mind as long as you come out healthy!  Keep up the good work!

We also started birthing class this week.  Mom is a big baby and teared up when we watched the birthing video.  All those hormones sure do get the best of me!  It's been a great experience to learn about what to expect during the trials of labor and also different ways to cope with the pain.  Your Dad is learning how to be a member of my super-duper-support crew and I think he'll do a great job.  Both him and your Nonna will be there when you make your grand entrance into the world... they can't wait!  Next week your Dad and I are going on a mini-vacation to Homer, Alaska.  One of my all time favorite places in our big state!  It's our last trip as a family of three so we're looking forward to it! :)

Until next week...

All our love,

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 32

  Baby Bump

How far along? 32 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: Some sort of squash that I don't know the name of!!

Maternity clothes? Yes but I actually FIT into a pair of my pre-preggo black skinny jeans this week!  Buttoned up any everything! 
Stretch marks? No, holding strong!
Sleep: Not as good... couldn't seem to turn off my brain this week.  Had a few "freak outs" that I'm going to be a mom soon! Eek!
Symptoms: Those darned right ribs are not my friend lately, feeling FULL after a few bites of food, and majorrrrr mood swings.  
Best moment this week:  Date nights to Bears' Tooth with Jake TWICE! Much needed.
Miss Anything? I really wanted some blue cheese this week that Jake was eating on his salad.  Bummer.
Food cravings: Totally random, but this week I HAD to have strawberry shortcake.  I don't think I've ever had that in my life, but this week it was my #1 priority.  Amazing.  Also loving the carrots - but only the real long carrots, none of this baby carrot business.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Get fish away from me.  The smell makes me want to curl up and vomit for hours.
Any aversions? Cheerios, spicy food.
Have you started to show yet:  Unless I have a large beer belly, then yes I am showing.
Baby Names? Plenty... just not the right one yet.
Belly Button in or out? OUTTTTTIEEEE.  I thought I would be self conscious about the little guy, but I actually think it's pretty cute.

Linea Nigra? Yeppers. 
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Much better this week.  Still a little more moody than usual but so so so much better.
Movement: Yes. And the kicks are officially in my ribs.  He likes me right side more than my left so those ribs are beginning to take a beating!
Looking forward to: Ultrasound appointment in 2 days!!!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!): If you can, try to stock up on freezer meals.  It will help during the first few weeks! (Luckily Jake is okay with Top Ramen though, haha)
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: Just being pregnant!  Seeing baby move is the best.
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? I think so! A few definite "belly tightenings"
Feet Swelling? No!

Have you started to "waddle"? Not yet!
Any weird dreams? Not too many this week... or if I did I don't remember!
Over being pregnant? Nope!  Still feeling great!
Still Running? Yes! Back at it! Did 3 miles, and 5 miles! Felt pretty good. Also got in weights class 3 times and elliptical the other days!

Letter to Baby

Hello little one!

We're at 32 Weeks!  Can you believe it?  At this point you should be close to 4 pounds and almost 19 inches long!  I'm looking forward to our ultrasound next week when they estimate your exact size!  I sure feel like my belly has grown a lot in the last few weeks, so I'm sure that means you have too!  All of your organs should be functioning well, aside from the lungs which still need a few more weeks to fully develop. You are even able to dream at this point which I think is incredible!  What do you dream about?  Seeing the real world? Do you dream about meeting me?  I know it's all I think about these days.  

I've been lucky to be able to keep working although I'm not going to lie... it's getting harder to examine patients.  My belly keeps knocking into people as I'm listening to their hearts and lungs.  And if I happen to drop a tongue depressor or my pen on the floor... it's a bit of a comedy show trying to pick it up. You also get lots of pats and rubs from patients, so I hope that's okay with you.  Hopefully I'll be able to work right up until you arrive so I can enjoy my entire 3 months of maternity leave at home with you!

Your Dad is getting very excited to meet you.  Not that he hasn't been excited all this time, but I think it's more real now that my belly is gigantic and he can see you kicking and squirming about through my skin.  He said randomly to me the other day as we were going to bed, "I can't wait for Bambino to finally get here."  It's probably a lot harder for him because he doesn't get to feel your kicks all day every day.  I already feel like I know you a little bit since you've been a part of me for 8 months now! It will be amazing for you to finally meet your Dad and see why I fell in love with him.  He rocks my world.

Next week we get to see you on ultrasound!  It's been almost 4 months since we've seen you!  So put on your best smile and show me those kissable cheeks, okay?  I can't wait.  LOVE YOU.

XOXO,

Mom and Dad

Pregnancy Week 31

  Baby Bump

Sorry this picture is so dark!  It was getting dark out and the flash didn't work!

How far along? 31 Weeks, 6 Days
 

Size of the baby: A delicious pineapple!

Maternity clothes? Just assume the rest of these 'bumpdates' will answer YES to this question! ;)
Stretch marks? Nope! 
Sleep: Did okay this week!  A few nights of waking up for midnight snacks, but otherwise I slept like a champion.
Symptoms: Rib painnnnn, heartburn, leg cramps at night (when I don't drink enough water)
Best moment this week: Getting baby's crib, dresser, and changing table!  
Miss Anything? Feeling like a rock star runner.  I really do miss my long runs.
Food cravings: I can't get enough of popsicles right now.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Spicy food has not been my friend lately.  It makes me nauseous with a large side of heartburn.
Any aversions? Meat. Not that I really like it anyways, but I have to force myself to eat protein.
Have you started to show yet: Just a wee bit.  
Baby Names? Definitely taking suggestions at this point.
Belly Button in or out? Outie for the win!

Linea Nigra? Yesserie.
Wedding rings on or off? On!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Oh man.  Emotional/moody to a whole new level this week.  Not. Good.
Movement: Yes.  I'm starting to notice he has a schedule!  He wakes up when I do in the morning and does his exercise with me... rests after I eat breakfast, is up from around 2-6, takes a nap, then is up from around 7-10.  Luckily he's been sleeping when I do!
Looking forward to: Seeing how big baby is at our next ultrasound appointment!
New mom tips I received this week (which I love getting!):  Don't try to be supermom during the first month of your Baby's life.  He will never be that small again and no amount of dishes, laundry or cooking will ever be more important than savoring every moment with your new baby.  This was a good one for me to hear!
Favorite part of being pregnant so far: LOVE baby kicks.  Although now they're more like bulldozer crashes into my ribs.
Any Braxton Hicks contractions? A few here and there!
Feet Swelling? No!

Have you started to "waddle"? No.  I refuse to turn into a duck.
Any weird dreams? Attack of the killer spider.  Not fun at all!
Over being pregnant? Nope!  Still feeling great!
Nursery done? No... but I ordered the bedding, drapes, and a few accessories!  Now I just have to wait until they arrive!  It is going to be adorable.  
Fears? Losing my freedom.  Selfish moment, sorry!
Still Running? Yes!  Got in 3 miles, 5 miles and 3 miles!  Also had a great week of weights and elliptical.    

Letter to Baby

Hi little bean!

I guess I can't really call you that anymore since you are the size of a pineapple!  Speaking of pineapple... I can't wait to take you to warm places like Hawaii and Mexico where you can see and taste your first pineapple. Your Dad and I have good family friends in a tiny little Mexican town near Puerto Vallarta.  We have been every year for the past 3 years and it is truly our favorite piece of paradise. We go fishing, swimming in the beautiful ocean, snorkeling, take long walks on the beach, explore Mayan ruins, and eat as much delicious Mexican food as possible. Hopefully we can go this year again- I know you will love it as much as we do!

This week your little eyes are now able to respond to light; both dilating and contracting your pupils!  Your ears are also hard at work differentiating sounds and rhythm.  Studies show that some babies actually have a preference of music at this stage!  I haven't been listening to much other than country... so I'm sorry in advance if you're not a fan.  Maybe I should make it my goal from now on to branch out and blast some Metallica (Dad would like that), Justin Timberlake, Pit Bull, Katy Perry, and even Beethoven. The other HUGE news is that your lungs and digestive tract are almost completely developed so if you decided to come early you would likely not need too much assistance!  So amazing.  

So one of life's greatest lessons is that "Honesty is the best policy." Since that's the case, I'm going to be 100% honest with you.  I had a few "freak out" moments this week about becoming a Mom.  Giving birth doesn't scare me one bit, but this week I realized that I will never have the freedom I have today ever again!  As ready as I am to meet you and love on you every second of every day, I also realized I'm scared to put my own desires and wants on the back burner.  Your Momma loves a few things: Running, traveling, and more running.  (Of course there's more things I enjoy, but I really love those things).  I have friends and family that are traveling the world and I guess part of me was jealous that I won't be able to do that for a while.  I talked to your Nonna who told me it won't even matter the second I see your little face for the first time.  All of my previous desires will fade away and my heart will want to spend every waking moment with you.  As soon as she said that, I knew she was right.  I can't wait to be your Momma and love you until the end of time.  And the best part is I get to share my passions and joys of running and traveling with you when you're old enough.  I'm one lucky lady to have the best of both worlds.  

We love you SO much already (in case you haven't noticed!). 

Until next week!

Mom and Dad