A Series of Thoughts: Maria's Birth Story Part 3

We left off here...a while ago. Now let's finish up this birth story. We are going to end with less detail but lots of pictures!

So, there I was waiting for my epidural to come and feeling pretty loopy.  I could still feel the contractions but the edge had been knocked off.  When the anesthesiologist finally came in, I was happy to see him.  My sister and husband had to leave the room while they placed the epidural but my nurse was great company.

After the epidural was in place, I was feeling pretty good.  I was able to rest but I knew this time was going to move faster.  She at this point broke my water and that got the contractions to speed up but at least I didn't feel anymore pain.  We all tried to rest as we waited for the time to come.

That time didn't take long to come and by early morning I was already feeling ready to push.  We called the nurse in because I wanted the doctor to start heading this way...I could feel that need to push coming and I didn't want her to miss it.  The nurse as I said was fantastic and she got me ready to go.  The doctor showed up JUST in time as I had already been feeling the need to push when she waked in and from experience I knew that I am an efficient pusher and that it wouldn't take long.  The nurse kept telling me to try some practice pushes but I told her we should hold off.  Once I finally did, she was shocked how right I was.  The doctor showed up, Special K and Fleasbyte got in their positions to help me and a couple pushes later out came Maria Anne!

She was perfect with all her little toes and fingers and such a beautiful face!  I got to hold her for a while and then she had to get cleaned up.  Even right after she was born, she was a confirmed daddy's girl...as she was fussing on the table until daddy put his hand on her and she calmed right down.  LOVE this picture!

I actually remembered this time to get a picture of Dr. T! She deliever both our babies and she is my favorite at the practice. I prayed the whole time I was pregnant with both of my girls that she would be on call when I went into labor! THANKfully it worked!

Our first picture with our babiest girl...love!

The best nurse ever!!!  I couldn't have been in better care than this woman!  She was a traveling nurse and not sure where in the world she is now but I'm so glad she was here when I delivered! She was amazing!!

Daddy and his babies girl!  Love them!

And then here are some more pictures from our hospital stay...

Carmen meeting her new sister for the first time.  She was instantly in love! 

Hope you enjoyed my birth story. I know this last one was rushed but life got in my way of blogging and I wanted to get this up before she is a year old!

A Series of Thoughts: Maria's Birth Story Part 2

We left off here with me heading to the hospital to hopefully have this baby girl! 

On the way to the hospital my contractions kept coming regularly and with a vengeance. The trip to the hospital thankfully is a quick one but it felt like it took forever. Before I knew it though, we were pulling up and Fleas was letting me out. She had to drive over a bit to get the car valeted because it was pretty late and the Baby Place valet was closed. I went to check in and the security guy offered me a wheelchair several times but I didn't want one...I wanted to keep contracting and sitting was uncomfortable so I just stood there, swayed, and waited for her. As soon as we got up the elevator and onto the Baby Place floor, my sister grabbed the paperwork, which after being there 3 times before during this pregnancy and twice with my first, we were pros at filling out. She had to help me this time because I was having trouble focusing enough to write my information down...another clue that this was probably it!

We got checked in and taken back to triage.  The nurse had me change into the hospital gown, lie down, and get checked.  This part is hands down my least favorite part.  At this point I was 3.5 cms and super soft.  She said they wanted me to stay in bed being monitored for 15 mins, walk for 45, and then she would check me again and at that point call and ask doctor what she would like to do.  I asked who was on call for the practice I go to and when she said Dr. T, I was thrilled!  Not only is she my favorite docor in the practice but also the one who delivered Carmen! I thought the triage nurse's plan sounded fine but told her that after being in pain and contracting for the last 2 weeks, I want an epidural and I wanted as soon as I could get it!!  She got us both some water and off she went.

I stayed in bed on the monitors and continued to labor for15 mins.  I was really having to work through the contractions and was happy when the nurse came back in and told me I could walk around.  I was ready to get things progressing and I told my sister that I can't go home...I was in too much pain!  She agreed and we began to walk the halls.  As we walked, I was struggling more and more with each contraction.  I don't remember this whole area of the hospital last time as I didn't walk around like I did this time.  

We waddled by the nurses station for the labor and delivery rooms and I noticed there was a younger male nurse.  I didn't remember seeing any men on this side 2 years ago.  I even commented to my sister how I didn't recall any male nurses back here.  We continued walking and stopped in the room with drinks for a quick drink.  I knew as soon as I got my IV, they weren't going to let me drink anymore so I wanted to get some liquid in before I had to resort to only ice chips.  At this point, I was really in pain and thought I was ready to waddle back to the triage room.  

We got to the room and still had 10 mins before she was coming to check me.  I tried laboring sitting down and decided that I was NOT going to do that again.  I kept changing standing positions and my sister helped me focus on my breathing and held my hand during each contraction.  Not sure I could have made it through this part without her as she kept me focused.  During both pregnancies, I found when I was going through a tough contraction I had to close my eyes and breath or I would start getting a bit panicky.  It felt like an eternity passed before the nurse finally came in to check me again.  She checked and said that I was progressing but not by much.  She asked if I had a procedure done when I was younger that may have left scar tissue on my cervix and I said yes.  This was the exact thing that prevented progress with Carmen.  She said she could break up the scar tissue now but didn't recommend it because I was already in so much pain she worried that it would progress me too fast.  She said they would wait until after I got my epidural.  I agreed to that!  Before she left the room to talk to the doctor, I told her to please tell Dr. T that I can't go home and that I am asking for pain meds NOW!!  I told the nurse that Dr. T would know I was serious if she shared that with her.  

Before having Carmen, Dr. T and I discussed at length trying for a med free birth and after 14+ hrs of slow progress and lots of pain, I got the epidural and couldn't have been happier.  After that birth and throughout this pregnancy, I had talked about trying to go med free again but after the 2 weeks I had just gone through...I was at the state where I wanted drugs and I wanted them NOW! 

The nurse went off to call the doctor and ask her if I was to be admitted or not.  My sister helped me continue to labor.  Not 5 mins later, the young man I had seen at the nurses station knocks and comes in and through the door I hear the best words come from the triage nurse, "She said to admit you!!"  Relief came over me as I couldn't imagine that I wasn't in labor or that they could possibly send me home!  

The nice young man, who had a southern accent and manners, proceeded to set me up to put in my IV.  He asked if I minded and I said go ahead but please promise me that you'll get it in one try!  2 weeks prior to this, the nurse had blown a vein in my arm so bad that I still had a bruise to show him.  He said he would try his best and I wanted to kiss him when he did it quickly and in one try!  He started my IV and got some of my vitals as we waited for another nurse to come take me to labor and delivery.

When the nurse arrived she asked if I wanted a wheel chair to head to my room or walk. After experiencing what it felt like to contract sitting down I declined and said let's walk. She looked at me in shock and asked again and I said no wheel chair lets go!  As we started a contraction came on and I had to labor through it...the nurses at the station asked the one helping me why I wasn't in a wheel chair and she giggled and told them I said let's do it!  That made me laugh.  We walked/labored as fast as we could over to my l&d room and got me settled in.

My labor and delivery nurse came in and introduced herself.  She was my favorite person all night!  She started asking a bunch of questions and got me into bed and back on the monitors.  One monitor for the contractions and one for the baby's heartbeat.  I tried to answer everything as quickly as possible and was just trying to get her finished and get her to get me meds!  She said she was going to go put in my order for my epidural and I quickly asked "Can I please have something now while we wait for anesthesiologist?"  She said she would check to see what orders the doctor put in and she would be back. 

By this point, my sister had already called Special K and put into motion the plan.  My niece Surfer girl had headed over to our house and my husband was on his way.  I was looking forward to having him with us.  He showed up just in time for the nurse to come in and start me on the meds through my IV. She had warned me it would make me loopy and within mins I felt high but it helped.  Special K took out his phone and recorded me all loopy!  We all were chatting and laughing and excited that baby was coming!!  I was happy to know my epidural was on it's way!  Check out this smile while I was in labor.  Can't remember if this was pre or post epidural but I know there was meds in me. :)

Please come back soon for the final part of this birth story, when Miss Maria finally joins us.

Baby Bump: 37 week Update!

Not going to apologize for the little hiatus...explanation is in the post! Hope you enjoy and will hopefully be posting some more soon!! :) Have some knitting and lots of pictures to share!

Week: 37 weeks and 2 days.  Any day now!!!
Weight gain: 47 lbs so far...which is WAY more than I gained with Carmen. 
Baby's sex: Team Pink!  
Baby's name: Been decided but not announcing until after birth!  Per Daddy. :)
Sleep: This has been tough.  My hips go numb in the night and rolling over is a chore.  I usually end up catching up on sleep throughout the day as night time is not always successful for me.
Movements:  She is losing a lot of her room so the movements are different, however, she moves a lot.  When we were in the hospital the first time with pre-term labor at 35 wks, I could tell a contraction was coming because she would kick right before it started.  
Labor Signs:  Where do I begin...on March 7th I was at work and I had been feeling contractions since the night before.  After lunch I finally started to time them and they were coming every 2-5 mins.  I called the OB and she said that I should go into the hospital triage.  At this point, I was overwhelmed with that idea and started to cry.  I called my sister who was leaving work at this point and she told me she'd meet me at home and take me in and to calm down.  I texted Kenny at work and told him to stay there but that I was going to go in with my sister to triage to be monitored.  When we finally got into triage that afternoon, the contractions were every 2-3 minutes.  They checked me and I was 1 cm dialated.  At this point, they decided to monitor me for an hour and see if the contractions slowed or if I was progressing.  The hour came and they checked me and the contractions had not slowed and I was 2 cm.  They decided to give me a shot to slow the labor and it was supposed to last 45 and hopefully slow them enough but they only slowed to 4 mins apart and once the 45 mins were up they came right back at 2-3 minutes apart.  After that didn't work, they decided to try a pill.  They would load me up on the pill by giving me one pill every 10 mins for 30 mins and then it would take another 30 for them to work...let's just say that did NOTHING!  So, the nurse said she would wait until 9 pm and check me again...if I was progressing still I would most likely be admitted.  We waited, she came and checked, and I was 3 cms at this point.  So, I was given an IV and moved into a labor & delivery room.  

Ok...so that was most the excitement for the night.  My other sister went to the house to stay with little miss CGR, who had been put to bed by her daddy, and her daddy came and joined us.  The plan was not to help things along and just to see how the night went.  The nurse had warned that the IV may slow the contractions and they did.  Once I was able to rest in the l&d room, my contractions started to slow throughout the night.  When the doctor came in the morning and checked me, I was still a 3 and was sent home on pre-term labor precautions.  At almost 36 weeks, it was too late for bed rest but she said not to do anything to provoke the contractions and to rest as much as possible.  To make an already long story shorter, I have since gone back one night with painful contractions but weren't progressing me.  I've been on maternity leave since March 8th and just resting and trying to keep this baby in as long as possible.  We've hit 37 weeks so it's time. 

Operation walk this baby out has started and I am really hoping that things progress soon but now that I'm not working, I fear I will still be pregnant April 9th on my due date.  We'll see.  I'm having regular contractions, lots of pain, but nothing that would count as labor yet.  

Maternity Clothes: If it's not maternity then it's my husbands t-shirts and something very comfortable!
Big Sister Carmen: She has been a trooper!  I'm usually the one who gives her a bath and does a lot with her but since I've not been able to, others and her daddy have taken over.  I can tell she's noticed as she is a bit more of a momma's girl than normal.  She gives the baby lots of hugs and kisses and I even have her asking the baby to come out and play. :)  My daycare was closed yesterday so she stayed home with me and it was tough but we did it.  She didn't nap and I was super sore at the end of the day but we had a good time and lots of cuddles, fun, and play were had.  Love my big girl!

Past couple weeks: With being home now, I'm still exhausted all the time but not as bad as I was when I was working.  My body is tired and sore most the time but I've been focusing on knitting, resting, and my family and that has helped.  Baby will come when she's ready...but we are ready for her.
Doctor's Visit:  Had a doctor's visit today.  We are on weekly...so every wed I have one.  The doctor today was distracted as there was another pregnant lady being sent to hospital from their office.  All my vitals were great and baby's heartbeat strong.  She checked me and I'm still 3 cm so she said just hang in there.  She mentioned we could talk induction if I get to 39 weeks but I'm not ok with that.  As much as I want to be done, I also want this girl coming when she's ready...now if we go past 40 weeks...then I'll be more open to induction.  They did an u/s at last apt and baby was already measuring 7lb 4oz but as the doctor reminded me several times, that guess is usually wrong and I should not worry about delivering a huge baby.  And that she is confident I can get through this.  That helped.
Next Doctor's Visit: Next wednesday the 27th...hoping not to make it that far but the apt is there. 
Looking forward to: Being comfortable again.  Holding this baby girl.  Carmen meeting her sibling! (Same as 2 weeks ago but it's the truth!)
Todos: Other than go into labor, rest, still need to sort through Carmen's clothes and everything else is done!
Overall, I am trying to focus on the positives!  Just take things one day at a time and know that God has a plan for me and this baby.  God knows this baby's birthday and when it's time he'll let me know.  I have faith that everything is going as he planned it and I'm putting my full trust in his plan.  Reminding myself often that he has perfect timing and he has had his hand in everything about this pregnancy and just trusting that.

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Wednesday!  

Baby Bump: 34 week Update!

Week: 34 weeks and 3 days!  less than 6 weeks to go!!
Weight gain: 45 lbs so far...another 5 lbs in the last 2 weeks.  My belly has definitely shown this weight gain as well as my face.
Baby's sex: Team Pink! 
Baby's name: Been decided but not announcing until after birth!  Per Daddy. :)

Sleep: This is a hit or miss.  I fall asleep fine since I'm so tired but I wake up throughout the night and usually wake up around 3am or 5am.  Last night I woke up with a terrible leg cramp that had me in tears and hubby awake and massaging my leg.  Hoping to drink enough water today to avoid that again!
Movements:  She moves so much!  Her movements are now a little restricted because she's loosing room but she does a good job and stretching herself as she wishes. :)  It's fun to watch when she's moving around and you can see them on the outside.  I've tried to get video but that's when she stops...just like her sister!
Labor Signs:  Braxton Hicks contractions have started to be a daily occurrence.  Some of them have stopped me in my tracks and hurt, especially when she pushes against them. 
Maternity Clothes: I've been all about comfort!  Still loving the Blanqi support tank! I still wear a couple non-maternity t-shirts and I've started to wear some of SK's t-shirts because they are comfy and cover the belly.

Big Sister Carmen: She is doing so good.  She hugs my belly often and I've been trying to talk to her more about what's going to happen.  I just don't know if I should tell her I'll be away for a couple days. I know I want her to come visit as often as she can but I just worry about telling her things like that.  I feel it would be best not to point it out and just let it happen.  The people who would be taking care of her are all people she's familiar with and spends time with regularly so I feel it's best to just let things happen and go with the flow.  We have tentative plans on what would happen if I go into labor in the middle of the night or during the day.  Need to remind those about what the plan is but it's been discussed. :) 

Past couple weeks: I've hit my wall...I'm tired ALL the time!  Usually the beginning of the work week I'm much more energetic but by friday, it's hard to keep my eyes open.  I've been trying very hard not to plan much on weekends and let my body and mind rest.  It's helped but it's not easy when you have a toddler who still needs lots of play and stimulation.  She's been great though!
I did have a little bit of a scare last weekend.  I was cleaning and I slipped on some water and fell right onto my leg that I've already been having trouble with.  My belly hit my leg and so it wasn't a direct contact.  I called the doctor and she assured me the baby and I were ok.  I do think that Special K won't let me clean for anymore.
Doctor's Visit:  My last doctor's visit was yesterday. As I mentioned, I fell this past weekend.  I talked to the doctor about this and so she did a couple checks to see if I had any progression.  I have none so that is good.  All my vitals were good and baby's heartbeat nice and strong.
Next Doctor's Visit: March 13th with my favorite doctor!  Can't believe we are into MARCH!!! My last 2 weeks before going to weekly doctor's apts. Countdown begins!

Looking forward to: Being comfortable again.  Holding this baby girl.  Carmen meeting her sibling!
Todos: Same as 2 weeks ago...since nothing got done! Sort through Carmen's current drawers and remove any clothes she no longer fits into. BIG things that have to be done soon are to find and clean the cover on the co-sleeper/pack-n-play and the carseat.  Look into getting a rock n play sleeper and a Baby K'tan.
Overall,  I am tired and somewhat ready to be done.  I don't want babygirl here yet as I really know she needs at least another month of baking in there.  People, strangers, family, and friends alike, seem to comment more and more on my belly which I didn't think was possible.  I'm just going with the flow on that one.  Babygirl has moved her bum off my back so my back pain as decreased a lot.  I'm still waddling a ton and have some pains but not nearly as much as I did have.  This has been good for my mental state.  I feel so blessed to have made it this far and looking forward to the next couple weeks of what as Special K says is my last pregnancy so I'm working on enjoying it as well as Carmen's last weeks as an only child.  Trying to focus on the positives!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Wednesday!  

Baby Bump: 32 week Update!

Week: 32 weeks and 2 days
Weight gain: 40 lbs so far...so...if you are keeping track that's 4 lbs in 2 weeks...guess she had another growth spurt!
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!

Baby's name: The name has been decided but Special K wants to wait until the birth to announce this time.
Sleep: oh sleep...how I miss being able to go to sleep and sleep all night.  Lately my trouble has been having to wake up to roll over and can I tell you the pains I feel while rolling over are enough to wake the dead!  I try not to make any sounds when I roll over and wake up Special K but sometimes it happens. :(  I've been going to be earlier to make up for the waking up in the middle of the night...that seems to help but I'm still exhausted!!
Movements: Still lots of movements! I can tell they are different now that she is losing more of her room in there but she is still moving a ton!  Love it all!
Labor Signs:  None.
Maternity Clothes: I've been all about comfort!  Still loving the Blanqi support tank! I still wear a couple non-maternity t-shirts and I've started to wear some of SK's t-shirts because they are comfy and cover the belly.
Big Sister Carmen: She is doing great!!  I hope she stays healthy like she has been!  She's been so silly lately and learning new things EVERY day!  She's been reading, singing, kissing, and hugging the baby still and it's so adorable! Love how good she is with her dolls and really hope that she is as great with her baby sister.

Past couple weeks: As I mentioned 2 weeks ago...even though I was having aches, pains, and such I was still feeling overall ok...now I'm counting down.  Exhaustion has hit and it's been a struggle staying awake throughout the day.  I'm just getting closer and closer to being done.  I'm focusing my thoughts on the prize here but I'm pretty ready to be done with being pregnant.  I know I have at least 6-8 weeks left but I have a feeling it's not going to be a super easy road.

I visited the chiro last week and he couldn't really adjust me much, he did recommend getting prenatal massages for my overworked muscles through his office every week the remainder of my pregnancy which is COVERED under my insurance!  He said I could start with 2 so naturally this week I had my first one on Monday and scheduled one for Friday too!! The first one was amazing and while it helped my hips and legs feel SO much better...it couldn't take all the pains away.  It did help enough that I'm all for going twice a week for this week and next week and then I'll go once a week until I deliver!  The lady was great and helpful!  Gave me some things that Special K can do too!
Doctor's Visit: Today's apt was with one of the doctor's I usually say is my least favorite BUT today I really liked her.  She was nicer than she's been in a while.  She also said some supportive things this time and not the usually comments that come out of her. :)  She asked me how I was doing and pretty much said that all looks good and that my pains are normal...which all the doctors have said but I still mention them because they are there.   I had a little scare with really low blood pressure last week but she said that is ok and that it's nothing to be concerned about.  My blood pressure was normal today and she said I've run low a couple times but nothing too low.  She said if I start feeling faint then they need to know but otherwise not to worry.  She also said my iron levels were great, which surprised me since I've been so exhausted.
When she measured my belly, it's measuring 34 weeks!  She said that it's fine to measure a couple weeks bigger or smaller but if the measurement increases then they will want to do an ultrasound to guess weight.  CGR always measured about a week smaller and she was 7lbs 4 oz when born 2 days late...so the doctor said be prepared for this baby to be bigger.  The doctor and I both agreed the ultrasound guess weight wouldn't change my plan to wait until I'm in labor and try to go natural like I planned last time.  I'm open to the epidural(which I got after 14 hrs of labor with CGR and no progression past 3cm in that time) but I don't plan to have it unless I feel I need it then.  While she's not my favorite doctor, she knows that I don't want to be induced and will only ok being induced if it's medically necessary or if I'm still not in labor 10 days after my due date.
That being said...I do plan to start doing everything in my power to naturally encourage this baby to come out starting March 23rd!   My sisters will all be off work/school that following week on spring break and I think it's a great time for this girl to join the family!  Now...last time I swore CGR would be early since I had braxton hicks for over a month before she was born...but that girl held on!  So, I won't really be surprised if it's April 9th and I'm still pregnant.  Like everyone says, it's all in this baby's hands and only God knows when this baby is to be born...hope they are both listening!
Next Doctor's Visit: Feb 27th is the next OB apt.  Massage apts have been scheduled for Feb 15th, 18th, and 22nd. :)
Looking forward to: The massages!!  Oh they are so fantabulous!  I'm also looking forward to getting closer to my due date.  I've been trying not to rush the last weeks of Carmen being an only child but I often ponder what it will actually be like when the new baby is in our lives.
Todos: Same as 2 weeks ago...since nothing got done! Sort through Carmen's current drawers and remove any clothes she no longer fits into. BIG things that have to be done soon are to find and clean the cover on the co-sleeper/pack-n-play and the carseat.  Look into getting a rock n play sleeper and a Baby K'tan.
Overall, I'm still feeling good.  Getting more and more ready to have a baby in our lives and not be pregnant but I'll make it there.  Just need to take it one day at a time and focus on the end goal. :)

I posted the following picture on Facebook 2 weeks ago but I wanted to post here too...this is a comparison of my 2 pregnancies.  The left is CGR at 30 weeks and the right is Baby Rush #2 at 30 weeks...I can't get over how different they are!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Wednesday!  

Anyone have any guesses on my delivery date?  I've given you as much info as I know...we can start putting out our guesses now. :)

Baby Bump: 30 week update!

Week: 30 weeks and 3 days
Weight gain: 36 lbs so far...that is around what I gained total with Carmen and I still have 10 weeks to go.  What is so great is that it's only a little over 2 lbs from 2 weeks ago.  Looks like my weight gain is slowing...could have been because I was sick over the weekend and not stuffing my face like normal....but I will take it!
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: The name has been decided but Special K wants to wait until the birth to announce this time.
Sleep: With Carmen being sick and with Special K staying up late doing work on the house, sleep has been rough.  Also having pains in my sleep and having to switch positions wakes me up.  Nothing to do but grin and bear it!
Movements: Lots of movement!  She loves to kick and wiggle!  I love her kicks and wiggles! :)
Labor Signs:  None.
Maternity Clothes: I've been all about comfort!  Still loving the Blanqi support tank!  I pulled out some of my old maternity jeans from last pregnancy and while they are a bit big they are so much more comfortable than anything else.  I have a pair on in the picture above.  Also if you notice even my maternity tops do not cover my whole belly.  Layering is key!
Big Sister Carmen: Poor thing has been sick on and off but she is doing great!  She has felt the baby move some more and is so cute.  When I'm reading her books at night, the baby in the belly moves over to give her room in my lap.  It's pretty cute!

Past couple weeks: Between sickness, housework, work, and life...let's just say I'm not even sure what to say.  We've made it through.

Doctor's Visit: Today's apt was with the nurse practitioner and I really like her!  She's new and very nice.  She felt around and confirmed that the baby's head is already down and she helped me feel it.  Was pretty cool to know I was feeling my baby's head.  She said that the baby has probably figured out already that she has a bit more wiggle room if she just goes head down.  The NP also said that the baby has her spine along mine and that is causing the back pain I have been having.  She gave me some exercises to try to encourage her to swing around and was happy to hear I have an apt with a chiropractor on Wed! Looking forward to feeling what he can do for me!  I could use some relief.  When NP went to hear the heartbeat it sounded so far away because of the position that the baby is in.  It's a good strong heartbeat but we had to hear it from a distance.  Little stinker!  So, I'm glad all my vitals are good still and my weight gain has slowed a bit. 
Next Doctor's Visit: Apt with Chiropractor on Wed and then OB in 2 weeks!!  Feb 13th.  All OB apts from here on out are already scheduled.  So wild!
Looking forward to: The visit with the chiro!  Really need some back relief.  The support fixed most all my ligament pain but not all the back pain.  Also looking forward to enjoying the last couple months of Carmen being an only child.  She is just growing so fast and want to savor this time before she has a sibling.
Todos: Same as 2 weeks ago...since nothing got done! Sort through Carmen's current drawers and remove any clothes she no longer fits into.  Move twin bed into her room and rearrange furniture.  Figure out the diaper changing station I was talking about and find and clean the cover on the co-sleeper/pack-n-play.  Look into getting a rock n play sleeper.
Overall, I've been feeling good and glad all is going well with this pregnancy.  I have a full on waddle and I can't count the number of times that either people have commented on the "torpedo" belly or asked me if I was due soon...nope 2 months!!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Wednesday! 

Baby Bump: 28 week update!

Week: 28 weeks 2 days
Weight gain: 33 lbs so far...this girl is growing!!
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: The name has been decided but Special K wants to wait until the birth to announce this time.
Sleep: This has been touch and go.  I still need to update you all on the crazy that happened last week but let's just say for over a week no one in the house slept through the night completely.  Two nights ago was the first time we could and I kept waking up anyway.  Hoping to get more comfortable again and be able to sleep but with the way this little girl is growing...I'm not going to hold my breath!
Movements: She moves all the time!  She's starting to lose a lot of her extra room so I can feel that the kicks are different but she is competing with her sister for the prize of best soccer player in womb! :)
Labor Signs:  None.
Maternity Clothes: I've been all about comfort!  Still loving the Blanqi support tank and sporting the work out pants but it's comfy and that's all that matters to me!

Big Sister Carmen: She had a bit of a scare last week that I'll talk about in another post...but she is doing well.  She's not a huge fan of feeling the baby kick but she does like to hug, kiss, sing, and talk to the baby.  She even read the baby a book the other night. 
Past couple weeks: Life has been crazy but it's been good too.  I finally found the newborn-3 month box and did our first newborn laundry!  They are so tiny and cute!  I am waiting on the 3 month clothes because I'm not sure where her clothes are going to go yet so I don't want to do them quite yet.  The kids(...yes...I said kids..so crazy...)are going to share a room eventually but the baby will be in our room for the first couple months.  I've been thinking about setting up a diaper/clothes changing area for the new baby that is either in our room or the living room.  That way at night when she needs changing I don't need to go into disturb Carmen.  We haven't put the twin bed in her room yet but that is on the list of things to do soon.  As soon as we get that in there, then we'll know more about what other furniture will fit and figure out where we want it to go.  My friend has offered her small diaper changing table since with Carmen we just used a dresser with a contour changing pad on it and while I was hesitant at first I realized it would be a great idea to have that in our room or in the living room for changes.  Thankfully with the new house we have room! :) I'll try to take a picture of the before and after but we haven't really decorated things fully yet since we knew that her room would change with the new baby's stuff.

Pictures comparing the growth in 2 weeks....WOW!

Doctor's Visit: The doctor's visit today went well...sort of.  I had my glucose test that now I just have to wait for the test results but they sort of forgot about me.  I ended up waiting a long time and then I was going to be late getting back for a call so then they rushed me through.  I had stuff I wanted to discuss with the doctor more but I guess since we start 2 week apts now I'll be back there soon.  Nothing was really urgent.  Baby is doing well with a strong heartbeat and my vitals were great.  Blood pressure was perfect and weight gain while still going at an alarming rate for me...doesn't seem to alert anyone. :)
Next Doctor's Visit: 2 weeks!!  Feb 1st.
Looking forward to: Getting the results from the glucose test.  I hate wondering if I'm gestational diabetic...it's so nerve wracking.  I wasn't last pregnancy and I don't think I will be this one either but you never know. 
Todos: Sort through Carmen's current drawers and remove any clothes she no longer fits into.  Move twin bed into her room and rearrange furniture.  Figure out the diaper changing station I was talking about and find and clean the cover on the co-sleeper/pack-n-play.  Look into getting a rock n play sleeper.

Overall, I'm still in a little shock we have arrived at the third trimester already.  I'm SO glad we are that far along because I seriously feel like she is growing so fast and taking over my whole torso and pushing anything she needs to aside...especially my lungs!  I'm also very glad we have time before she'll be here.  We are getting things organized to God willing close on our house at the end of next month and then we'll need to prepare for her arrival shortly there after.  It's a lot going on but we've had time to plan for all of it thankfully.  Just hoping that baby girl can stay put and keep cooking until we are ready for her.  My knitting mojo is still going great and I managed to spin some last night with no pain!  YAY!  So...overall...this preggo is doing good this week.

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Wednesday!

Baby Bump: 26 week update!

Week: 26 weeks 2 days
Weight gain: 26+ lbs but haven't weighted myself since apt.
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: The name has been decided but Special K wants to wait until the birth to announce this time.
Sleep: It's getting a bit better...still haven't trouble getting to bed at decent hour but I'm sleeping more soundly so that is helping a lot!
Movements: Still feeling her all the time! Thankfully!  She gets calmer in the morning hours or if I'm running around but then I feel little reminders that she's there. LOVE IT!  

Labor Signs:  None.
Maternity Clothes: Still wearing some of my pre-pregnancy jeans but mostly I've stuck to work out pants.  I also got my Blanqi support tank and can I just tell you I LOVE IT!!  You don't feel like you have anything extra on but the support it provides has been amazing!  I haven't had a lot of the issues I had been having.  Still get pains and sore at end of day but that is so much better than the belly tightening I was experiencing.

Big Sister Carmen:  I know I say this a lot but she is just the cutest thing ever!  She has really gotten that the baby is in my belly more lately.  She comes over and hugs my belly and needs to say good night to it before going to bed.  She has started singing more and she sings to her baby sister...I love it!  I'll try to get video but it's usually impromptu! 

Past couple weeks: With the holidays the past couple weeks, life has been busy!  With all the holiday plans and my MIL in town, we've kept busy but also managed to get lots of relaxing and knitting done!  It was too short but the holidays were refreshing!  My knitting mojo is back...check for post to come soon...and I just feel good!  It's weird I'm getting the boost at the end of my 2nd trimester but I'll take it whenever I can get it! 
Next Doctor's Visit: January 16th...also have my glucose test that day...yuck!
Looking forward to: Getting things in order the next couple months. Pulling out the newborn stuff and making sure everything is ready for this baby!
Todos: This weekend's baby todo is to find and sort through all the newborn-3 month clothes from Carmen and to clean and figure out where they will go.  We may start re-arranging the kids room but haven't figured out exactly what we are going to do yet.
Overall, enjoyed being pregnant over the holidays...really wanted a sangria New Years Eve but that's alright.  Life is good right now...I feel refreshed for the new year and am so excited that in 3 months we'll have another baby!!  I'm slightly nervous with the details of the next couple months but I'm excited for it all!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Thursday! 

Baby Bump: 24 week update!

Week: 24 weeks
Weight gain: 26 lbs!!  10 lbs in a month!!  It is strange to know that I am only 6 lbs heavier right now than when I got pregnant with Carmen!  I just hope I don't weigh the same at delivery this time than I did last time!   Doctor mentioned to watch my weigh...guess I should lay off the cookies...AFTER the holidays that is!
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: The name has been decided but Special K wants to wait until the birth to announce this time.
Sleep: I'm having pains when I move position in my sleep but overall I'm sleeping well and that helps.
Movements: She is very active baby and I love feeling all her kids and punches and general movements!  I'm starting to be able to see her movements from the outside!  So fun!!
Labor Signs:  None.
Belly Button:  Hard to hide.  The maternity pants with the full panel semi hides it but otherwise...it's out there!
Maternity Clothes: Have trouble wearing pre-pregnancy jeans to work as they are just too uncomfortable to sit in all day, but I can wear them about as long as it's short periods. I think it's time to trade the maternity jeans I had before that are too big for a smaller size.
Big Sister Carmen: She is doing so well.  She has this knack of elbowing my belly when she is sitting in my lap but we are working on that.  She still loves to give kisses and hugs to my belly!  She also has sung to my belly! 

This past week: I've been trying to take it easy overall.  This isn't an easy thing to do with a toddler and plans but managed to do ok.  I've been still having the tightness when I walk that goes go away until I relax and I've been having general aches and pains. 
Doctor's Visit:  I had my doctor's apt today.  The baby is doing great!  Strong heartbeat at 158 b/m.  My blood pressure and the other stuff they do each visit was all great!  My belly is measuring a week ahead...as Special K said "So, we really might have an April Fools day baby?"  Who knows but that would be interesting. :)  She also said that I need to get a belly support since I've been having all the lower pressure and the aches and pains!  She said that the belly tightening when I walk is semi-normal and that if it doesn't relax when I sit down or it starts acting like contractions that I need to call.  She said my muscles and ligaments are all looser this time and that I need to try a belly support and that I may just not be able to walk everyday with this pregnancy like I did with Carmen.  She suggested yoga, swimming, or Pilates.  We'll see.
Next Doctor's Visit: January 16th...also have my glucose test that day...yuck!
Looking forward to: the holidays!!  Having time off with my family and then my MIL coming to visit!  I know we'll be busy but it will be great to spend the holidays at home with family!  YAY!!!
Overall, I am a little in shock about the weight gain because I don't feel it's shows overall other than my belly is just getting huge!  I really am worried about not being able to walk...I know that seems silly but I really enjoy walking the dogs.  Not being able to walk them would be sad but I know it will be worth it once we have a little baby in a couple months.  Someone pointed out that I'm 5 months pregnant...I've been keeping track in weeks and it feels so far but 5 months means 4 months left...and that doesn't seem so long.  I have one more monthly apt then I start going on bi-weeklies!  This pregnancy is going fast and I know I just need to savor it!  Need to remind myself to sit, just be, and feel her move more often.

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Tuesday! 

Giveaway winners have already been contacted...and will be announced tomorrow!

Baby Bump: 23 week update!

Week: 23 weeks and 3 days!! (picture was taken at exactly 23 weeks.)
Weight gain: 15+ lbs! Still haven't weighed myself...
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: We have a name that we both love but are trying to make sure it's the best one. :)  We actually had a name compete with our favorite name for a second but then we are back to our favorite again.  Once it's solid, we'll announce or we might just wait until delivery...I'm not good at keeping things like that secret so we'll see.
Sleep: I've manage to make it to bed early a couple times, which has really helped.  I've also been walking the pups in the morning and I think that has been helping me sleep more sound when I do fall asleep.  I'm still tired but not nearly as tired as I had been. YAY!
Movements: This baby likes to move a lot!  I love it!  The little kicks, punches, and rolls are so fun to feel!  It's also been great to share her movement with more people!  Grandpa got to feel her before he left!
Labor Signs:  None.

Belly Button:  I feel like it's so far out there that it's trying to escape my body!  It's a running joke in my family and a lot of people mention it.  I get that it looks like an alien trying to get out but there is nothing I can do about it. :)
Maternity Clothes: Same as last week...all maternity with some non-maternity tanks thrown in.  Been sporting the sweatpants a lot lately because I just am so uncomfortable if I don't!
Big Sister Carmen: She loves to give the baby big squeezey hugs before bed!
This past week: My belly is growing at a very fast rate!  I can tell I've reached that stage in pregnancy when my belly is just going to grow in leaps and bounds!  Several people have mentioned that they felt like I just popped one day...umm..your telling me?  I've had more lovely pregnancy symptoms lately and when I called the nurse she assured me that it's all normal.  She reminded me that every pregnancy is different and while I was able to walk every day during Carmen's that I may need to slow my walking down to a slow walk for less than 30 mins a day with this one.  I've had a lot more aches and pains recently and I know that I just need to rest my body.  I forget that even at rest my body is doing more than normal.
Next Doctor's Visit: Next apt is Dec 18th.  I had to reschedule this because of a training at work...it went from seeing one of the other OBs to seeing my least favorite again.  Please please PLEASE start praying now that I go into labor and deliver when my ABSOLUTE favorite doctor, Dr. T is on call!  She delivered Carmen and I really really really hope she delivers this next baby too.  She is the most like a midwife you will get in an OB and she was so great at supporting my birth plan and even questioning me when I decided to change it!  She is down as my primary so if for some reason I have to be induced this time than they would schedule on a day with her.  Also pray I don't have to be induced!!  Thank you in advance for those praying!! :)

Looking forward to: meeting this little girl but I'm very willing to wait until she is good and ready.  I had told myself after last pregnancy that in my mind I would make our due date a week later so that I wasn't like I was with Carmen those last couple days after her due date.  I just wanted her OUT!  With this one measuring ahead of schedule though, I'm having a hard time convincing my brain that I'll still be pregnant April 9th.  I'll be happy if we make it past April 1st and ecstatic if we at least make it past March 25th.  I might be singing a different tune when I'm so big and uncomfortable I can't stand it but for now...in my mind my goal is March 25th.

Overall, I'm enjoying being pregnant through the holiday season and so ready for some time off!  Last year, I was able to take 3 days off and get 11 days total off but with having very little vacation time left I'm only able to take one day.  I will have a 4 day weekend and then work 2 days and then a 5 day weekend...so I can't really complain. :)  Tis the season!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Thursday!

PS...Don't forget to enter the Giveaway, which ends tomorrow! 

Baby Bump: 22 week update!

Week: 22 weeks and 3 days!! 
Weight gain: 15+ lbs! Still haven't weighed myself...
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: We have officially picked a name but Special K is not ready to announce.  We may wait until birth or we might do a fun announcement!  Haven't decided yet. :)
Sleep: Still not making it to bed early enough because life has just been busy but I need to get more sleep for sure! Last night I was actually in bed and asleep by 10pm!  First time in a long time and while I woke up a couple times with lovely pregnancy dreams, I slept great!
Movements: When she is awake, this little girl likes to move and kick!  It's so fun feeling her all day!  Several more people have been able to feel her kick and it's amazing to share the feeling!

Labor Signs:  None!
Maternity Clothes: Pretty much all maternity now other than some jeans worn with my belly belt and long tanks with some pre-maternity tops.  Pretty sure I have to stop wearing my pre-pregnancy jeans and get some more maternity ones.  The pre-pregnancy jeans are just not comfortable anymore.

Big Sister Carmen: Every week I feel she is understanding more and more that there is a baby in momma's belly.  She gives her hugs every night before she goes to bed and lately has been throwing in a kiss and a song!  I often ask her what she wants to say to her little sister and she usually says something or starts singing.  It's pretty cute.  She did tell her she loved her the other day and my heart burst!  Looking forward to watching them together grow up as sisters!
This past week: I feel like my belly has grown so much in the past week. I catch glimpse of myself and I feel like I already look huge!  As a been there done this mom, I know that this is nothing compared to how huge I will be. :)  I also haven't been walking as much as I was and I can definitely feel it!  I've been staying up too late so I haven't been able to get out at 6 am and walk the dogs like I had been. I need to get back to this as I feel that my body needs it. Yesterday, I was also just uncomfortable!  I felt like my belly was just not comfortable with the clothes that I was wearing and it made me have pain at the bottom of my belly.  Thankfully it's gone!
Next Doctor's Visit: Next apt is Dec 19th

Overall, still feeling very pregnant but I'm also feeling better.  Other than my overall exhaustion, I'm feeling good.  I'm looking forward to my next apt even thought we won't get another ultrasound for a long while.  More holiday fun is coming this month along with our wedding anniversary!  Need to make sure I get some rest and eat well. Still so amazing that in a couple months we'll be parents to 2 little girls!  So exciting!!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Thursday! 

PS...Don't forget to enter the Giveaway!

Baby Bump: 21 week update!

Week: 21 weeks and 3 days!!  As you can see, Abbygirl wanted to help with the picture again this week. :)
Weight gain: 15+ lbs! Haven't weighed myself after Thanksgiving weekend but I feel I gained 5 lbs this weekend alone!
Baby's sex: Another Team PINK!
Baby's name: We still have a top pick for our baby name but we haven't yet committed to it.  I am getting a feeling Special K doesn't want to announce the baby name until she's born.
Sleep: Much better than it has been....other than I'm just not going to sleep earlier enough lately.  Trying to make a conscious effort to head to bed earlier...we'll see how it goes.

Movements: Starting to feel lots of kicks throughout the day and night.  I love getting that sweet little reminder kick that hey stop squishing me or hey I'm here. :)
Labor Signs:  None...the cramps from last week have thankfully subsided.  Just need to make sure I keep up with my water and resting.
Maternity Clothes: Pretty much all maternity now other than some jeans worn with my belly belt and long tanks with some pre-maternity tops.

This past week: It has been a long week...I felt like I posted the last update a MONTH ago but it has barely been a week.  As I wrote in my catch up post, we did so much and got very little resting in. 
Next Doctor's Visit: Next apt is Dec 19th
Overall, I'm physically exhausted and feel like I'm already starting to develop a small waddle.  I try hard to correct it when I realize I start waddling but I know it's inevitably coming and won't go away until after I deliver.  On another hand, Carmen has been hugging baby aka my belly every night before bed and I love it!  She is starting to really get that there is a baby in my belly since going to the ultrasound with us.  If you ask her where her baby is, she will point to my belly.  I can't wait for them to meet!  I think she is going to be a great big sister! Who am I kidding...I can't wait to meet this baby either but I'll be happy to wait until April and she's done growing in my belly first!  Stay put little girl and finish all the developing you need to do!  Love you so much already!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Thursday! 

Baby Bump: 20 week update!! Half way point!

Week: 20 weeks!!  Half way point!
Weight gain: 15+ lbs!  How did this happen so fast! I'm pretty sure the scale at the doctors was off last Friday...but I also feel like I have been gaining weight faster so I guess it makes sense.
Baby's sex: My guess was TOTALLY wrong!  We are having another GIRL!!! I'm SO excited that Carmen is going to have a sister.  Daddy is a little disappointed that he's not getting his boy but with 2 daddy's girls I think he'll be fine!

Baby's name: Announcing the name once we commit to one.  We have a top name which hasn't changed in weeks but we are playing with others to see if it's really it.  I love the name that we're thinking about though and can't wait to share!
Sleep: Carmen has been sick for the last week so she has been the primary reason for my interrupted sleep.  She finally is feeling better and I have been sleeping great! I think the combination of being just so tired and the cooler weather has done wonders for getting some deep sleep!

Movements:I have been feeling the baby every day!  I love it!  Whenever I think I haven't felt her in a while, I'll wait and if I still don't feel her I drink some cold water and she perks right up.  I'm sure it's a little mean but it's just nice to get that little reminder that she's in there and doing good.
Labor Signs:  No real labor signs yet...TOO early!  BUT I have already started getting braxton hicks contractions.  I had them last time starting at 34 or 35 weeks and they were every day all day and even time-able most the day.  Thankfully, so far they have been random and one day I'll have them and then I won't have them for a couple days.
Maternity Clothes:  Still wearing my work out pants when I can but with the chill in the air, I've had to resort to the one pair of maternity jeans I have or my regular jeans with the belly belt thingy.  Also most the tops are either my longer regular tops or maternity tops now.

These past couple weeks: With our trip up to WV/OH area for my DH's Papa's funeral and Carmen being sick since we've gotten back...life has been busy just surviving.  I still feel super pregnant and yet I know that I'm not even close to feeling as pregnant as I'm going to feel.  Even with the lack of sleep, overall I have been feeling pretty good.  
Doctor's Visit: We had our big anatomy ultrasound apt this past Friday!  We were all excited and I was so glad that Carmen got to join us!  The baby looks great, strong heartbeat, and is growing fast!  She is now measuring for a due date of April 1st but as the doctor said they don't change the due date ever.  She said the u/s at 8 weeks is usually the most accurate.  Carmen always measured behind her due date so the fact that this one is measuring ahead of schedule is a bit concerning for me.  Carmen is a peanut but she was born 2 days late and 7 lbs 4 oz.  I'm just hoping that this baby stays put until at least April! :)  I fully acknowledge that I may be singing a different tune come March 15th...but for now I just am hoping for April.  
Next Doctor's Visit: Next apt is Dec 19th
Overall, I'm still feeling very pregnant but I'm starting to feel that I'm definitely getting a little of the 2nd trimester boost...not nearly as much as I did last pregnancy but it's there.  I've been knitting a little but not as much as I'd like.  Finding out we are having a girl, I'm already planning some fun matching knits for the girls!  I need to finish up their blankets!  My goal is to have both of their knit blankets done before this one is born!  Need to knit like the wind!   Back to pregnancy, I am ever grateful that my baby is healthy and I'm doing well this pregnancy.  Yay for healthy babies, toddlers, daddy and mommy!

Thanks for reading another baby bump update!!

Happy Tuesday!