Friday, December 19, 2008

My last day =(

Today is my last day home with Makenzie. I start working full time at the office again on Monday. I have mixed emotions about it. Part of me is ready. I'm ready to get things back to normal around here. I can't live in this little fairy tale world where I'm a SAHM forever. Everyone kind of needs to get on a schedule and get used to how things are going to be. And part of me is actually ready to get back to my job, although I know I'll regret saying that by 10:00 on Monday.

And the other part of me is hurting so badly. My heart is just breaking to leave my little girl. I've enjoyed my time with her so much and I'm really going to miss it. I'm going to miss cuddling with her in my bed in the morning and taking our 2:00 nap together. I'm going to miss playing with her all day and just seeing her smiling face all day long. I'm just going to miss everything about her! I was telling Art lastnight that I remember my first week home alone with her and how the days used to go so slow. I used to count down the minutes for him to get home. Now the days go so fast! He comes home and I can't believe it's 6:00 already!

Thankfully she doesn't start at the babysitters until January 5th. My office is closed Thursday and Friday for the next two weeks so I'm only working 2 1/2 days and my Mom and Art have taken the rest of the days off to stay with her. I think if I had to deal with starting work and having her start at the babysitters on Monday I'd be a total wreck right now!!!

But like I said, it's time! I've been home for almost 5 months and I am just so thankful that I was able to take this much time off with her. She must have known it was our last week home together because Wednesday she gave me a little surprise and rolled onto her side. She's so darn cute!

On a side note, yesterday was one year since we found out we were expecting! How different your life can be in 1 year!

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Makenzie's Christening

Last Sunday, 11/16, was Makenzie's Christening. Everything was great and our little girl had such a nice day. Her uncle Rod and cousin Ariana came in from Florida for the weekend and finally got to meet her. We had a nice weekend with them. Saturday we took Ariana to the mall to take a picture with Santa. My sister-in-law says the Santa's in Florida look horrible! Ariana went up to Santa and talked to him but when it was time to sit on his lap she started crying so that never happened. Kenzie got her picture taken though! She just woke up so she wasn't smiling but she always looks cute =)

Sunday everything went nicely. Art and I took Makenzie upstairs and got her dressed. She wore the Christening gown that I wore. My Grandmother made it out of my Mother's wedding dress so it was very very special. It was a little cold so we didn't get to walk down to the church like I wanted but that's ok, we were running a little late anyway. The ceremony was very nice and the priest was great! My in-laws loved him because he's Irish...LOL! Art's sister Karen was nice enough to host the party afterwards at her and John's house. She put on a great spread as usual and Art & I were very greatful! It would have been crazy trying to get the house ready for the party on top of everything else. Everyone was so very generous and once again we were reminded on how lucky we are to be surrounded by such loving friends and family.

Makenzie is doing great! She's getting bigger and bigger every day. She's being VERY good to Mommy and sleeping 9 to 5:30-6 every night. She's been doing that for the last few weeks. After she gets up and takes her bottle she's not quite ready to go back to bed yet so she lays in her cradle and "talks" like a mad woman! Then she gets tired so she lays in bed with me and we sleep for about an hour more. It's great! I love snuggling with her.

She got her first cold. When Ariana was here she had a bad cold. Turns out she has pneumonia! Well the Thursday after they left Makenzie started to get a stuffy nose. By Friday she was real congested so I called the doctor. He said to just use a humidifier at night, an aspirator and saline drops if she needs it. If she gets a fever or a cough to call him again. Well Sunday she had a really bad day! She developed such a bad cough. My poor little girl was so congested she couldn't sleep and she was only eating half of her bottles so she was probably hungry and tired. There is nothing worse than seeing your little helpless child sick and there's nothing you can do for them! It broke my heart to see her like that. I took her to the doctor on Monday and he said it was an upper respiratory infection and to just do what we're doing. She'll have the cough for a week or a little more but she'll be fine. She's doing MUCH better now.

She's started to laugh so much! The other day she actually laughed out loud! It was the cutest thing ever!!! We're trying to give her enough time on her playmat so she can learn to roll over but we're not there yet.

We also celebrated Makenzie's first Thanksgiving this past Thursday. We had a very nice day. We usually host Thanksgiving but I thought it would be too much this year so my in-law's had it. It was a nice day as usual.

Yesterday she was 3 months old! I can't believe how much she's changed already in just 3 months. I started to pack up her newborn clothes today. That made me sad. It feels like just yesterday she fit into them. Anyway, I'm packing them away just in case baby #2 is a girl too.

Well I think that brings everything up to date. I will try to post more often but I can't promise anything. Once a month is good right???

Thursday, October 30, 2008

2 month check up!

We just got back from Makenzie's 2 month check up. She's doing great!!! At her last visit (2 weeks old) she was 7lbs 7oz and 19in. Today she's 11lbs 8 oz and 22 1/4in!!! My little girl is getting soooo big! She got 4 shots today and she did really good. She cried (and broke Mommy's heart) but by the time I was done getting her dressed she was smiling and cooing again. The doctor says she's doing wonderful and whatever Art & I are doing, keep it up! That made me feel good since this is our first time at this parenting thing =)

Now we're just going to relax until it's time to go to her first Halloween party at 4:00. I'll be sure to post lots of pics tomorrow. Here's her two month shot:

Thursday, October 23, 2008

8 Weeks!!!

Today Makenzie is 8 weeks! 8 weeks?!?!?! I can't believe my little girl is almost 2 months. The time is going so fast. Today is my last day of disability which means if I wasn't going to start working from home I'd have to go back to work on Monday! I can't even imagine. She's still so young but she's getting bigger every day. She's holding up her head so well and her legs are getting stronger every day. I try to put her down for tummy time but she really hates it. She'll only last about 2-5 minutes. She stays awake longer now and is really alert! She's "talking" up a storm and smiles all day long. It melts my heart when I look at her and say hello and she just smiles and laughs. God I love her so much!!!

I'm actually looking forward to start working a little from home on Monday. It'll keep me busy. Not that she doesn't keep me busy but this will get me away from the TV! I watch every reality and talk show there is! It's gotten so bad I DVR The People's Court. Can you believe that????

We're also getting ready for her Christening on November 16th. My brother and Ariana are coming up from Florida and I'm so excited for it! My brother hasn't met his Goddaughter yet and he tells me everyday that he can't wait to see her. I can't wait to see Makenzie and Ariana together! There will be some pretty cute pictures to take =)

Monday, October 13, 2008

I'm so blessed!

I haven't been able to write in a while. Miss Makenzie is keeping me busy! I'm typing this as she is sound asleep on my chest. I promise to try to post more often about how she's doing and how she's changed!

I have been a little emotional in the last few days/weeks so brace yourselves because this may end up being a mushy post...LOL! Having Makenzie has really made me look around at what I have in my life and appreciate everything and everyone around me so much more. My Husband, my Mother, my Friends and Family, I've honestly seen everyone in a different light.

As I've already stated numerous times, my husband is an amazing man and I am damn lucky to have met him. After 9 years together I love him more at this moment in my life than I ever have. To see him as a Father and to watch him with Makenzie honestly brings tears to my eyes. The way he plays with her, the way he holds her, the way she instantly falls asleep when she puts her head on his chest. Probably because she feels safe and loved just the way I do when I'm in his arms. It's beautiful to see a grown man absolutely melt at the sight of his daughter. I could watch the two of them for hours. He's also been so amazing to me. I can't believe how much he has changed. He's doing so much more for me since I'm busy with Makenzie. The other day he scrubbed the bathroom for me, even the toilet! Now that's love...LOL!!! Most of all he's been extra loving and caring to me, which at some points I really need because I get overwhelmed and get very emotional. I honestly don't know what I'd do without him. The other night when we were on our date he gave me a necklace with a pendant. It's a square with Makenzie's birthstone and a diamond on top of it. I love it! It's beautiful and it meant so much to me!

I also couldn't do this without my Mother. Wow, she been amazing to both me and Arthur. She is so much more than my Mother, she's my best friend, my rock. She gets me through a lot and helps us so much. Art always makes comments about how much he appreciates having my Mother around. I only wish I can be to Makenzie what she is to me. She is truly inspiring to me.

And my friends. I have to say I've fallen in love with each of them all over again, especially Alli & Jill. The way they are there for me and the way they love my daughter is beautiful. I cherish them all so much and am so happy that, after all these years, they are still in my life.

And of course my in-laws. They have always been great to me but to see them react to Makenzie is so sweet. I love to see my father-in-law with her. He just can't get enough of her and if he could he'd hold her 24 hours a day. Karen has been wonderful and is always coming over to see her! Even Sweetie Pie is fascinated with her! But I'll never forget the way Patrick reacted to her the first time he saw her in the hospital. It's a side I never thought I'd see from him.

It is so amazing to see how one little girl can bring so much happiness to so many people. I feel so blessed every day that I get to wake up every day (and every night!) to her beautiful, smiling face. She will only be 7 weeks tomorrow and I feel like she's grown so much. Her personality is starting to come out now and it's so fun to see. She is a true miracle, an absolute angel! I have a love in my heart for her that I can never explain. Arthur & I were sitting on the couch the other night with Makenzie and I looked at them both and said "I have never been as happy as I am at this moment in my life!" It just can't get any better than this!

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

It's been a while!

Makenzie and I are doing great! The end of last week she started getting real gassy and she looked so uncomfortable. I tried Mylicon drops and they helped a little but she still looked like she was in so much pain when she tried to pass gas. So on Saturday I decided to switch her formula. I was reading reviews of the Enfamil Lipil and a lot of people said it made their child gassy because of the amount of iron in it. So we switched her to Similac and over the last few days you can tell she's been better. She's been sleeping pretty good. She has her longest stretch of sleep at night. She'll take a bottle at about 8 and when she falls asleep she won't wake up until 1 or 2 a.m. After that she's up every 3 hours which isn't bad at all. She isn't sleeping much during the day though. She'll fall asleep on me and when I try to move her to her pack n play, her swing or her bouncy seat she'll either sleep for only 30 minutes or she'll wake up right away so it's been tough trying to get things done around the house with her not sleeping. BUT there is hope! I just got the Moby wrap and it's wonderful. I can carry her around and still have both my hands. What a wonderful invention!!

Art & I are doing good. I must admit the beginning was tough. It took us a while to adjust and get into a routine with the two of us but I think we got a handle on it now. We're going on a date next Saturday! Art says it's important that we have some alone time and not neglect our relationship so Nana is going to watch the baby and he's taking me out! How cute is he?

Sunday my little girl will be a month already! I just can't believe it! I know they say it goes quick but my God that was too fast! She's becoming so alert! When we put her in her swing and put her mobile on with the twinkling lights she looks up at the lights. She's smiling like crazy and she's starting to make little coo noises. She's doing great with her head too. She can hold it up for just a little while. We've been putting her on her tummy time mat so she can practice and get stronger. She looks so much like her father though! I couldn't see it at first but I see it now! It's so funny, she's totally a mini-Arthur...LOL!

Being a Mother is such a wonderful thing! It is one of the most rewarding gifts! I sometimes just sit and stare at her and try to take it all in and it amazes me. I'm amazed that she's my daughter and that I'm a Mother and I'm amazed that my Husband and I created such a perfect little girl. I'm so incredibly happy and in love right now!!!

Friday, September 12, 2008

We did lots this week!

Monday was our first trip out of the house. Makenzie had her first doctor appointment so Art & I got her all bundled up, put her in the car seat and went on our way. Everything went great! Makenzie gained 9 ounces and is back up to her birth weight (she was 6lbs 14oz when we left the hospital). Doctor says she looks good so I guess Art & I are doing something right as parents! Now we won't have to go back until she's 2 months.

Tuesday my Mom and I took her out on her first walk in her carriage. It was really nice to get out of the house, walk a little and get some fresh air. And Makenzie seemed to like it too.

Makenzie is doing great! She is such a good baby. The only time she'll cry is if she's hungry or needs to be changed. Other than that she sleeps, eats & poops! I love it when she's wide awake. She'll just lay there in my arms and look around for an hour. It's the cutest thing. The nights aren't that bad. She'll sleep anywhere between 3-5 hours. I'll feed her and then she'll go right back to bed. She doesn't sleep too long in her bassinet so I'll just pick her up and let her sleep on me. I'm just so happy she's doing so well!

Daddy & I are getting used to having a baby in the house now. It's such a huge adjustment but we're working together to get into a routine. Arthur is so good with Makenzie. He's such a proud father and it's so beautiful to see.

Today I had a my post labor doctor appointment so they can check my incision. The doctor was a little concerned because it's a little red & swollen so she's putting me on antibiotics. If it doesn't start to get better in 3 days I have to go back to the doctor next week. So we'll see what happens. After the doctor we went to visit Daddy at work so he can show her off to all his co-workers. Then we went to Mommy's work to show her off there. It was real nice to get out of the house and see everyone.

Monday my Mom goes back to work. I don't know what I'm going to do without her here. I'm actually a little scared to do this all on my own. I just hope I'll do ok. It's not like I haven't been home alone with the baby, I have. But it's so great having my Mom here to help out. I may just have to have her retire and hire her as a permanent nanny!!!

Thursday, September 4, 2008

One Week Old!

I can't believe Makenzie is a week old already! The first few days have been hectic to say the least. The first day was good. Makenzie was eating and taking her naps like a good little girl. Then the night came! I don't think she likes her bassinet too much. Every time we put her down she'll stay asleep for about an hour and then wake up. The only way I can get her to stay asleep is if I have her sleep on me.



Breastfeeding is hard! Maybe more frustrating than hard. Like I said, the first day was good, she was eating and sleeping good. But then she started wanting to eat about every 1 1/2 hours. By the second day she wasn't napping either. So obviously she wasn't getting fed enough and was hungry and tired. The second night I think we both slept about 2 hours. The third night started the same, she went to bed at about 10 and woke up at 11. She would not latch on at all and was crying. So I grabbed a bottle (Yes, a bottle. I'm a bad Mother already!) and fed her and she fell asleep right away. I took her into the bed and had her sleep on my chest (I wasn't risking waking her up by putting her in her bassinet). She slept good and woke up about 1:30 so I fed her again. She fell asleep and didn't wake up until 5:30! I was so happy!!! 1) Because my little girl was fed and nice and rested. 2) Because I got more than an hour sleep...LOL!!! Today is going much better! I woke up and nursed her and she did good. She then napped for about 2 hours. While she slept, I pumped. So I'm going to try that for now.

I'm feeling good though. I'm still recovering from the c-section. Art went back to work on Wednesday and Thursday but is off Friday and Monday. My Mom has been here with me helping out. She's been great! I can actually stay off my feet while she's here which is helping my recovery a lot! Plus, I don't think she minds the Nana-Makenzie time. She's off the whole next week too so she'll be here helping. I don't know what I'm going to do when she goes back to work though! I may cry hysterical since my hormones have been CRAZY lately!!!

Sunday, August 31, 2008

She's finally here!!!

I can't believe I'm finally going to post this but I'm finally a Mommy!!!! Makenzie Ellen Crist was born via c-section on August 28, 2008 at 5:39 p.m. She was 7 pounds 7 ounces and 19 inches long. She is just absolutely beautiful. She has this beautiful full head of brown and blond hair (yes, my daughter was born with what looks like highlights) and the blondest eyebrows AND what looks like light eyes, maybe even blue!!! She's making her Daddy very proud! Arthur & I are completely in love with her. We just stare at her amazed that she is ours and even more amazed that we created her. It is the craziest feeling in the world! I think what I'm enjoying almost as much as my daughter is seeing my husband with her. He has been so wonderful! I knew when she arrived Art would be good with her but he has been beyond words. Since I had a c-section I wasn't able to do a lot in the first day or two and he completely stepped up and has taken control. It is simply beautiful to see him hold her in his arms and smile at her and kiss her. I fall in love with them both all over again.

My labor wasn't the easiest labor. It was long and at parts painful (what labor isn't) but I got through it with the help of my two WONDERFUL coaches, Arthur and my Mother. I honestly don't know what I would have done without either of them. And, to be honest, I don't know what they would have done without each other. Each one of them played such an important part and was there by my side holding my hand (and my legs...LOL). They are two amazing people and I'm so lucky to have them in my life. So here is my birth story. It starts on Wednesday afternoon, after my last post on this blog.

So after my doctor appointment they called me and told me I was scheduled to come into the hospital on Tuesday September 2nd for an induction. Not the ideal plan for Arthur & I but at this point we'll take what we can get. The whole afternoon I was cramping. Like the cramps I started getting in the morning so I was anxious to see if the contractions would start up again. Arthur came home around 5 and we ate dinner as usual. At around 7 p.m. the contractions started. They were spread out in the beginning ranging anywhere from 30-40 minutes apart. Then they got to about 15 minutes apart. They stayed like that for a few hours. At 11 Art & I decided to go up to bed. I didn't sleep much considering I was still having contractions and they continued to wake me up but I slept here and there. All of a sudden, at about 12:45 a really strong contraction woke me up. I looked at the clock and the next one came 6 minutes later. I told Art I was going to go downstairs to lay on the couch. If they continued to stay this far apart I'd wake him up. Well, from 1 to 2 they ranged between 3 and 6 minutes apart. I ran upstairs, woke Art up and called the doctor. She told me to get to the hospital. Art and I showered, packed up the last minute items in our bag and headed to the hospital. The whole way there we were both kind of shocked that "it" was finally happening. So many times we drove down this road and we would always say "One day it will be for real" and that moment had finally arrived. So we got to the hospital at about 3 and was all checked in and showed to our room by 3:30. They hooked me up to the monitors and did an internal. I was already 4 cm dilated. So they told me I was staying and that the doctor would be in in about a half hour to check me. She finally arrived about an hour later and I was already 5 cm. The doctor and nurse said I was progressing nicely so we decided to get the epi now instead of waiting until it was too late. So they gave me the epi. Not the most enjoyable procedure I've ever been through but I'll tell ya, TOTALLY worth it!!! It is a complete miracle drug! From that point I didn't feel ANYTHING! I got some sleep and relaxed as much as I could for the rest of my labor. At about 7 a.m. the doctor came back in and I hadn't progressed at all so she broke my water. From that point to about 9:00 I still had no progress so the doctor started the pitocin. From there it was just a waiting game. Like I said, I was very comfortable and actually got to sleep a lot of the time. At about 12 the doctor came in to check me again and I was 8-9 cm. FINALLY! She told me to lay on my side for a while to help me progress. Well I don't know what laying on my side did but I was on my right side and my left leg started killing me. It's like the epi stopped working and I felt every contraction just in that leg. It was the craziest thing. I was in so much pain for that hour. I tried moving around, getting up, stretching, breathing...nothing worked. Finally, after an hour of complaining, they gave me another shot and the pain stopped. Why they didn't do that sooner I'll never know!!! So now it's 1:00 and I'm fully dilated. The doctor said the baby was still a little high but it was time to start pushing. Pushing is no joke! I put everything I had into every pushing. I pushed on my back, on my left side, on my right side and my baby girl just wouldn't budge! She just wouldn't come down. 2:00 came and went and still nothing. Finally at about 2:30 the doctor inserted a monitor of some sort (not sure what it was called) to better watch the baby's heartbeat. She said if the baby was fine than she had no problem letting me push for 2 hours if that's what it took (I cried when she said that) but if she sees there's a problem with the baby she's going to recommend a c-section. Well the baby wasn't in distress but her heartbeat was dropping after every contraction. She said that, combined with the fact that she was still so high and it took me so long to progress from 5 to 10 cm, she was recommending a c-section. It's not the way I wanted to go but I wanted what was best for the baby and I honestly didn't have it in me to push for another two hours so we agreed. They started prepping me and Art for the c-section. My Mom went out to tell my friends who were in the waiting room what was going on. I must admit I was scared. I just wanted this part over. I wanted to know my baby was going to be alright. I wanted to hear her little cry and see her little face. They brought me into the operating room and got me all hooked up. Finally, they brought Art in and they started. I just laid there holding Art's hand, squeezing the hell out of Art's hand, and anxiously awaiting that little cry. Finally I heard them say "She's out" and the doctor lifted her up above the wall and said "Katie, here's your daughter!" It was only for a brief second but I saw her and she was unbelievable! She was finally here! She was right there in that room with us. I heard Art saying "Oh My God" over and over again. The only thing that took away from that moment was that I couldn't hold her. I told Art to go over and see her and take a picture to show me. He didn't want to leave my side but I made him. He came back with a bunch of pictures and a video and showed me. But I still didn't hear her cry. She let out a few little cries but that was it. All I kept saying was "Why isn't she crying?"
Art then had to leave to go with Makenzie to the nursery while they stitched me up. I gave him a huge kiss and told him to watch out for our girl and I'd see him later. They then took him to "ring the bell." At St. Clare's whenever a child is born they tell the father to ring a bell and a lullaby rings throughout the whole hospital. While he was doing that I was being "put back together." That hurt so much more than I expected it too. Wow! That was the worst part out of the whole process.

Next thing I remember I was in recover and Art was there. They had to keep me there for a little while and then they started to bring me back to the room. I couldn't wait because I still hadn't seen my little girl or held her. We finally arrived back in the room and my Mom and best friends Jill and Alli came in. Talk about wonderful friends, they waited there the whole time so they could see me and Makenzie (well, mostly Makenzie but I think they wanted to see me too). And finally, my husband came walking in rolling my daughter in her little crib. He picked her up and handed her to me and I just cried. I couldn't believe I was finally holding her. This perfect little human being, our daughter, was finally in my arms. She looks gorgeous. The perfect little face, little hands and feet and toes and fingers. Everything about her was just perfect. It was the most memorable moment in my entire life. The rest of the night was spent with our family and friends meeting Makenzie. Art's family came up and everyone just fell in love with her. Uncle Patrick even cried when he held his niece for the first time. It was a beautiful, special night and I'm so glad so many people were there to share it with us. Everyone finally left and Arthur & I decided to send Makenzie to the nursery for the night since I was in a lot of pain and couldn't get out of bed. But we got her back first thing the next morning.

I had to spend the next few days in the hospital. Four nights to be exact. I'm actually being released tomorrow. The last couple of days have been good. Between me trying to recover and trying to get to know Makenzie it's been busy but we're all getting the hang of it. I'm feeling much better. I was up and walking around today. Doing laps around the maternity ward. I'm breastfeeding Makenzie and so far it's going pretty good. She's latching on just fine. My only problem is getting her to stay awake during her feedings. But we're all learning and with time we'll all get the hang of things.

Arthur is absolutely amazing with Makenzie. I love watching him lay on the couch with her on his chest. They both fall asleep and it's just so beautiful. I just can't get enough of them. It's the most beautiful thing.

Anyway, that is my story. Like I said, we're going home tomorrow so I'm sure I'll have lots of stories to share. Wish us luck!!!

PS-Saturday my friend Alicia (who did my Maternity pics) came to the hospital to take some newborn pics of Makenzie. Of course she did an amazing job! Here are a few:

http://www.aliciagouldphotography.com/blog/

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Happy Due Date to me!!!

So today is my due date! I'm officially 40 weeks. I had my 40 week doctor appointment today and it went GREAT!!! I'm just about 3 cm dilated & 50% effaced!!! WOOOOHOOOO!!! My doctor says they're going to schedule an induction but hopefully she'll come on her own since she made so much progress in 1 week. I will get a call today with the date. My blood pressure was a little high today so I have to watch out for that. Oh, and I lost 2 1/2 pounds. Other than that it was a VERY good doctor appointment!

They also signed my disability papers so today is my last day of working from home. Not that it makes that much of a difference LOL!

I started having contractions this morning. At 2 a.m. I woke up for my regular potty break and when I went back to bed I started cramping real bad. They would come and go so I just went back to bed. Then at about 5:30 I got my first real contraction. I always worried that I wouldn't know the difference between braxton hicks contractions and the real thing and everyone told me "You'll just know" and boy were they right! There is definitely NO mistaking real contractions! If what I had is considered mild than I don't even want to know what it's like to go through labor without an epidural!!! Anyway, they continued on but in no sort of time order, 30 minutes apart, 40 minutes apart. It continued like that until about 6:30. Then they came about every 15 minutes apart for a little more than an hour. The whole time I was just laying in bed. I didn't want to wake Art up because he looks so cute and peaceful sleeping. I was just staring at him thinking how our lives were about to change if this was the real thing. The alarm went off at 6:45 and I told him I was having contractions. He smiled and asked if this was it and I said I'm not sure. We'll see what happens. He then went downstairs to do a load of laundry so he can pack his hospital bag when he gets home from work. Nothing like waiting until the last minute! Anyway, like I said, they continued to be about 15 minutes apart for about an hour. Then I got up to take a shower an they stopped. Hopefully they'll start up again and we can get this labor thing started!

For now I'm just sitting at home waiting for them to call me with a date. I'm getting so excited knowing that it's so close. I could possibly have my daughter in my arms by the end of this weekend! I really really hope so!!!

I'll update when I know when we're going in!

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

No progress =(

I went to my doctor appointment this morning and she said I'm still only 1cm dilated. So at my appointment next Wednesday, if Little C doesn't come on her own, we'll schedule an induction date for the following Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. If Art & I have our choice we'd like to go into the hospital on Monday, September 1st, which happens to be Labor Day! How cute that I'll be induced on Labor Day right?!?! Also, Art has said from the very beginning that Little C's Birthday was going to be September 2nd. We were having breakfast at IHOP one day and we were talking about the baby and that date just popped into his head. From that day on he's said the baby was going to be born on September 2nd. Would it be crazy if she actually is born on that day!

So whether Little C comes on her own or I do end up being induced I will be a Mother in 2 weeks. OMG!!!!! I can't wait =)

Monday, August 18, 2008

Getting very anxious!!!

We're getting down to the last few weeks of this pregnancy and I have to admit I'm getting VERY anxious! Every little thing I feel I think "Can this be it?" Some people were hoping that the full moon this weekend would bring labor on but as you can see, I'm still here and still pregnant. I had a very weird day Friday and Saturday. I was just so very emotional. I cried at everything on Friday. It was so bad I cried at the friggin Olympics! Yes, that's right, I cried watching gymnastics. Then Saturday I got up because I was suppose to go to Alli's to go swimming. I took a shower, sat in bed and just didn't want to move. So I told Alli I couldn't come and I went back to bed until Art came home from work at 12:30. Then I was emotional again. Art could see I was on the verge of a breakdown so he made me go get dressed. We went for a walk, then he took me to TGI's for dinner and then to A&P to get stuff to make an ice cream sundae. The man sure does know the way to my heart!!!


By Sunday I was better. I invited my Mom over for dinner and she confirmed my thoughts, my little girl has finally dropped! Her butt is no longer up by my boobs! But I'm peeing a lot more and she's putting a LOT of pressure on my pelvis area. I feel like a lot has been "going on" this weekend. Like I'm closer to labor. Yes, I know I actually AM closer but I've been feeling almost like my body is actually getting ready for it now. I know it sounds weird but it's just a feeling. I was cramping a lot today and had some sharp pains. Tomorrow is my doctor appointment so we'll see if I actually made any progress or if all this stuff is just in my head...Wish full thinking???

Well, I've gotta go get some work done. I'll post tomorrow when I get back from the doctor!

Friday, August 15, 2008

Arthur had his first shower!

Yesterday Art's work threw him a shower! They gave us so many cute clothes, more bibs, socks, hats, wash cloths and another diaper cake. It was so cute!

I also got a visitor yesterday! My friend Kim came over and spent about two hours here with me. It was nice to have someone here with me to talk to instead of talking to my computer and watching tv...LOL! I can't wait for Little C to get here so I'll have company allll day =)

And a very big Happy Birthday to my puppy Marino!!! He's 11 years old today!

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Lots of appointments!!!

So between yesterday and today I had some appointments. Most important was my doctor appointment. Babies heartbeat was 160 which is very good. She's still in the right position, head down, AND I'm 1cm dilated! Nothing too crazy to brag about but at least I'm making progress!
After that I went to get my last haircut before baby gets here!

We also went to meet with two in-home daycare providers. Arthur & I went to meet with one yesterday and my Mother came with me to meet one today. Arthur couldn't get out of work so she was nice enough to come with me. We all really liked both of them and felt very comfortable with both of them BUT the one from today was amazing! She was so calm and I felt like I could sit there and talk to her for hours. I would feel absolutely comfortable leaving Little C with either of these two women but the lady today just impressed me so much more. I'm going to take Arthur there next week so he can meet her also but I think this is where Little C will end up and I'm actually really really excited about it!!!

This is my first week working from home and I'm really enjoying it. It's really nice to not have to wake up early, get ready for work and then sit in my uncomfortable chair all day long. I just feel SO much better. I've actually started cooking for my husband again. Can you believe it?!?!?!

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Done with work!!!

God I am SOOO happy I don't have to go into work anymore! Now I can just relax at home and take it easy. The people I work with are so awesome though. Thursday the girls from HR took me out to lunch and gave me a gift certificate to the spa! They said everything from the shower was for Little C and this was something for Mommy. I'm going to save it for after the baby gets here. I'm sure I'll need it! Friday we had dunkin donuts for breakfast and one of my co-workers made me pink and white cupcakes. Yummy! Then my department took me out to lunch. It was a really nice day. VERY busy but I finally got everything done and left the office until December!

Today Art & I have to go to the Police Department to get our car seats inspected. We'll see how well Art did with installing them...LOL! Tomorrow we're going shopping to get my little Ariana a birthday gift. I can't believe she's going to be 2! Other than that I'll just be relaxing at home. It's beautiful out today and is suppose to be this way all weekend. I'm gonna open all the windows to get some fresh air in the house and maybe even sit outside on the deck for a little while. Something I haven't done all summer!!! Enjoy!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

I'm Full Term!!!

I'm 37 weeks today which means I'm Full Term! My ticker says I have 21 days left. YIPPY!!!

Oh, and this is my last week of work!!!!! Friday is my last day of coming in to the office. After that I can sit on my couch or on my deck with my lap top and work from there. I can't friggin wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Monday, August 4, 2008

Another Dr. appointment

This morning I had a dr's appointment and I had no idea! I thought it was tomorrow at 10 so I went into work, got my bagel & coffee and sat at my desk to get started. I looked at my calendar & it said my dr's appointment was today at 8:45. I ran out of here like a mad woman.

Anyway, everything is good. Not much change since Thursday except I lost 2 pounds so I'm down to 18 pounds total. Not too bad! I also asked her how long after my due date do they like to wait to induce you, if it comes to that. She said they only like to wait a week. Sooo the latest I'll be induced is September 3rd! That's less than a month from now! Holy Crap!!!!!

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Just sitting around on the weekend

It's Sunday morning and it's Beautiful out! There's a nice breeze and it's not too hot out. Art is outside mowing the lawn and then we're going to go take Marino for a walk with the stroller. Last time I took it out he was afraid of it. We want him to get used to walking with it since I'll be taking him and baby out for walks when I'm home.

The weekend was good. Friday my feet were so swollen they were throbbing! Art soaked two rags in a bowl of ice water and wrapped each foot. It felt SOOO much better! Saturday I was suppose to go swimming at Auntie Alli's house but it was crappy out so we decided to reschedule. My Mom came over instead to help me clean up the house a little bit. Then we just hung out for a while. I tell ya, I don't know what I'd do without my Mom and Art. They both take such good care of me and make sure I have everything I need. It's nice to know I'm surrounded by such loving people!

Later that night Art's parents called and said they wanted to stop by and bring Chinese over for dinner. So at about 7 they showed up with dinner and stayed until about 9:30. They got to see the finished nursery and loved it! They don't come over to the house too often so it was a nice surprise.

We also got a few things checked off the baby to do list. Art put the car seat in, my hospital bag is pretty much packed and the nursery is finally done! I posted some pics below. Now all we have to do is wait for our daughter to arrive!


share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8KctWrNuzbHA

Thursday, July 31, 2008

My Baby Girl is in position!!!!

I had my 36 week appointment this morning. My baby girl is in position!!! I had a feeling she was because I felt this big lump on the top of my stomach and I thought it was her butt and back. I guess Art was right, Little C's gonna have a big butt like her Mommy! Anyway, I had my first internal today! This is something every woman should look forward to...LOL! Just the sound of it makes me cringe, internal. Oye! The best part is I get to have one every week until the baby is born! So baby is measuring right on schedule but my cervix is still closed. She said that's pretty normal for 36 weeks. I'm officially up 20 pounds, 4 of those pounds I gained in 1 week! Dr says it's fine. It's from all the swelling and all the water I'm retaining (which has gotten worse in the last week). I told her I had some cramping on Monday night. She said what I thought she'd say, it's my body getting ready for the real thing. She told me some things to look out for that would be signs of labor that may happen in the next couple of days/weeks. I'm getting SOOO excited!

So overall a very good doctor appointment! I go back on Tuesday so we'll see if there's any progress between now and then. Probably not! I have a feeling Little C is VERY comfy in there and has no intentions of coming out any time soon =)

Monday, July 28, 2008

Happy Birthday To My Wonderful Hubby!

Saturday was Art's 31st Birthday! We had such a nice day. Art took off Saturday so he was able to sleep in. I woke up in the morning and cooked him breakfast in bed. After breakfast we just laid in bed watching TV until about 11:00. I gave Art the weekend off. I told him he didn't have to worry about doing anything except for relaxing. My Mom came over to take me food shopping and then I went home to take a nap. At about 4:00 we left to go to a BBQ. Art's friend from work was having some people over. He lives on the border of Boonton and Rockaway in a beautiful house!!! Anyway, I got to meet some people Art works with. They were all so nice. His one friend Alex and his wife was there with their 10 month old baby girl Sophia. What a cutie pie!!! We stayed until about 9-9:30. It was a really nice time. After that we stopped at Karen & John's house for a little while and then headed home for birthday cake. Art kept saying he only had one birthday wish, to have a healthy baby girl!

Sunday we met Art's parents and brother for lunch at Charlie Brown's. All his father kept doing was looking at me with the huge grin on his face saying how excited they all are for the baby. That was so nice to see and hear. This baby is bringing so much joy to so many people! And we're getting sooo close! It's 1 month to my due date!!! After lunch we stopped at a co-workers house to pick up a crib that she was getting rid of. She used it for her grandson and he outgrew it so she said I could have it. We're giving it to my Mom so Little C has a place to sleep when Art & I need a wine night and Little C needs some Nana time =)

After that we were home for the rest of the day. We put up the shelves in Little C's room. I just have to get some nick nacks to put on them now. I ordered a copy of mine & Art's baby picture to hang up. Once they get here and I put them up the room is officially done! If I buy anything else for this room Art will kill me!!! Art also put together her swing that Aunt Karen gave us. OMG it is sooo adorable! Art said he knows that she'll love it because it just looks so comfy.

Today I started my final two weeks of work! I'm so excited! I have so much crap I have to finish before I go but at least I'll be working from home for a bit so I'll still have a little more time to get things done.

I can't believe she's almost here!!!!!! I just can't wait to see her!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Holy Heat!!!!

The weather this weekend was HORRIBLE! It was so hot & humid out I couldn't do anything. I couldn't even go to the pool because I couldn't stand sitting outside for longer than 5 minutes. My Mother and I did have a very nice day together on Saturday. I booked us two massages (mine prenatal of course) at Fusion spa in Denville. I wanted to treat her to thank her for everything she did for the shower. I have to say that was the best massage I've ever gotten! Probably because I REALLY needed it! She worked out every knot I had in my back and for the rest of the weekend I felt great! I may need to get one more before Little C arrives!!! After that we went for pedicures and then out to lunch. And that was about all I did outside all weekend.


Now I'm starting to get other things prepared for my little one. I boiled and sterilized all her bottles and paci's. All her clothes, wash clothes, burp clothes, bibs, sheets etc. are washed and waiting for her. The two shelves I ordered for her room came on Friday. They're really cute! They need to be painted white though. I put one coat on them already so I just have to finish those and get them hung up. I started getting stuff together for my hospital bag. This way if I do go early everything is right there for me to pack up and take. We still have to get the car seats in though. Art's going to put the one in the truck by the end of the week but we have to wait to put the other one in the Volvo. It has to go in to get fixed so I don't want the car seat in there while it's in for repairs.

So this post is going to be LONG! I wrote the stuff above on Monday and it's now Wednesday and I have LOTS to complain about!!!

I had my 35 week appointment yesterday. I asked the dr. yesterday if it was ok if she could sign me out on August 8th. She said she can not medically sign me out unless I'm having a problem with my pregnancy (high blood pressure, bed rest etc). Simply being swollen or tired or having back aches is not a reason for them to put me out and I'd have to work up until my due date. But she said it depends on my company's policy. If I'm entitled to 2-4 weeks before my due date (which I am) and all she has to do is sign a paper saying yes I'm pregnant and yes I'm 37 weeks and that's the reason I'm going out than she's fine with that. But if she has to give a medical diagnosis she can not do it. I went to talk to my HR and she called our disability plan for me (we have a private disability firm, not state disability). They said it's basically between me and my dr. to decide when I'm "unable" to work. My dr. told me to bring the paperwork with me to my appointment next Thursday so I'm going to do that and see if she has a problem signing it. Art was soooo mad leaving there yesterday. He called the girl he works with who just came back from Maternity to find out from her what her dr's policy was. She said she was out 2 weeks before with no medical reason and she had a perfectly normal pregnancy. Well guess what...she goes to the same practice and sees the same doctor!!! I'll be sure to bring that up next week! I was sooo upset at the thought of working another month! I can't make it another month here. I'm so uncomfortable already. I left early twice last week because my back was killing me!

In the mean time I went in to talk to my boss and told him the story. He said if my dr. doesn't sign me out then he'll work it out so that I can start working from home and he'll be sure to get me out of here on the 8th. I'm really lucky I have a great boss. He's been great throughout the whole pregnancy. He laughed when I told him if my dr. doesn't sign me out I have to work until the baby is born. He said he's never heard of anything like that before and he has three kids. I guess that's why he's so understanding.

On a better note, my work shower was yesterday. It was so nice! My department got me a bucket full of goodies for the baby and a hand painted rocking bench and step stool to match. It's so adorable. My boss said it's for Little C and her first boyfriend to sit and rock in...LOL! I have to bring it back to the store tomorrow so the lady can put the name on it since no one here knows the name. The other staff got me more clothes, towels, wash clothes and a $200 gift card to babies r us. Everyone was so generous! And they invited my Mother so she was there! I walked into the room and my Mother was sitting there...LOL! That was a great surprise!

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Classes are done!

So we had our last birthing class last night. Two couples from a previous class came back with their baby's to tell their birth story. OH MY GOD these two little girls were just adorable! One was a week early and almost 6 pounds when she was born and the other was 2 weeks early and almost 7 pounds when she was born. It was really interesting to hear the two stories because they were completely different. The one girl waited too long to get the epidural and had to deliver naturally! This is my biggest fear. I'm such a chicken when it comes to pain. I told Art I'm going to wait until I'm at least 5-6 centimeter's dilated to get the epi (my Dr's office will give it to you at any point). I don't want it too early but I don't want to pass a point where I can't get it any more. Like she did, the doctor came in to check her and she was already crowning so there was no time for the epi. But this girl said if she had to do it all over again she'd do it without the epi. She said it was an amazing experience because she could feel the baby the entire time and could actually feel her coming out. BUT she also only had a 5 1/2 pound baby. Knowing my luck Little C will be 9 pounds and I'll have no meds!!! I'll take the epi please! So anyway, that's it, we're done with birthing classes. We have the "Happiest Baby on the Block" class (which is suppose to be fantastic) on Monday, our Baptism class on 8/4 and then we're done with all classes! Art is very excited! I think he's had enough of them all!

I had a little bit of a scare over the weekend. My Mom came over Saturday morning to take me to BRU, Target and then food shopping. It was so hot and muggy out and by the time we got home I started shaking and sweating. I got so dizzy and just had to sit down and eat something. I did WAY to much, especially in the heat. I really need to start listening to my doctors advice and limit my activity. I spent the rest of the day and night on the couch.

Sunday a friend came over to take my Maternity photos! I was so excited to take these pics. Marino even went to get all groomed on Saturday for them! She emailed me a few pics that she put up on her blog. I love them!!! She'll send me the rest at the end of the month. I can't wait to see them all. Here is her blog:

http://aliciagouldphotography.blogspot.com/

I'm going to the doctor a week from today and I'm going to speak to her about my Maternity Leave. I think I'm back to going out on the 8th instead of the 15th. I'm done with working. I'm just so tired by the end of the day. I want to make sure I have some time to relax and take care of myself. I feel OK but I can tell a month from now I'm going to be really worn down. Plus my feet, ankles and fingers are swollen and I can't see them getting any better. So we'll see what the doctor says. Either way, I only have 3 or 4 weeks left of work! WOOOHOOO!!!

Next week is my hubby's birthday! We're suppose to be going up to Mass for the weekend but my Mom doesn't think it's a good idea to be driving 3 hours away at 9 months preggo (which I'll be next week! Can you friggin believe that?!?!?!). I'm going to talk to my Dr about that too at my appointment next week. If she gives me any reason to think there's cause for concern we'll cancel. We're not paying for it (we won it) so it won't matter too much. But it would be nice to get away for a few days and just lay by the pool. We'll see!

Saturday I'm treating my Mom to the spa as a Thank you for throwing me such a beautiful shower! I'm getting a prenatal massage!!! I don't think you understand how excited I am about this! I was going to get one earlier but I wanted to wait until later in my pregnancy. I'm so happy I did!

My little princess has been kicking up a storm! Last week I'm convinced she tried to stick her foot up my throat! I was laying in bed trying to get to sleep and she kicked so hard and so high! Her foot landed on a weird spot so I put my hand on the spot and I could feel her little foot! It was so amazing! Now I'm at the point where I can touch my belly and feel her. I'm not sure what body part I'm feeling but I can still feel her. It's absolutely amazing to me that in just a few short weeks she'll be in my arms and not my belly! Pregnancy is one of the most amazing experiences of my life. These last two months are making me complain a little but I have to say I'm loving every minute of it!

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

33 week appointment

Today I went for my 33 week appointment. The doctor said the baby is measuring right on schedule and everything looks and sounds great! We got to hear her nice strong heartbeat again which always puts a smile on my face. She's a little concerned with my swollen feet and ankles though. She said I have to start limiting my activity and I should try to stay off my feet. I need to keep my legs elevated more often and make sure I watch my salt intake. But other than that I'm doing great. She asked me two very important questions:

Dr - "Did you pick a pediatrician yet?"
Me - "Yes!"
Dr - "Do you have a car seat?"
Me - "Yes!"
Dr - "Ok, then if the baby decides to come early you're all set. Those are the only two things you need. Everything else you can get later!

LOL!!! We're actually installing the car seats this weekend so we can get them checked by the police department. I go back to the doctor in 2 weeks and then I start going every week....HOLY CRAP!

Last night we had our fourth class. They talked all about c-sections, epidurals and procedures and medications you "may" need during labor. She also taught us how to push! Next week is our last class and I'm really looking forward to it. It's our party! Five couples from her previous classes come back with their baby's and tell us their birth stories. We also graduate & get certificates! I'm not really sure what the certificate will say though. "Arthur & Katie are now ready to have a baby!" LOL!!! But we both really enjoyed these classes. Art was saying he has to make a list to bring to the hospital of all the things we learned. This way he knows what to tell me to do and when to do them. I can't wait to see him in Labor & Delivery!!!

I also have my breast feeding class on Wednesday. This one I go to alone for obvious reasons! I'm also working on getting my hospital bag organized. I promised Art I would at least have a list of things that need to go into the bag. This way if I do go into labor early and he has to go home to pack the bag he'll know exactly what to get. I can't believe we're at this point already! Before you know it my DAUGHTER will be here!!!!!!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Christening - Done!

As I said in the previous post, I need to have things set up and taken care of yesterday. I had called the church a few months ago to find out the details of having her Christening. They told me to call back the first week of July to set things up. So I called today and her Christening date is all set. They like us to set it up early because Art & I have to go to a class that last about an hour. They say it's better to take the class before she's born because after the baby is born you don't have a lot of time. So we're set to take the class August 4th and November 16th is my little girls big day! Another thing to check of the to do list =)

My Baby Shower!!!

This past Saturday, June 28th, was my Baby Shower. What a wonderful day I had! My Mother put together such a beautiful day. It was at Il Michelangelo's in Boonton. They did a fabulous job and their food is always sooo good. We got so much stuff for the baby! It was overwhelming how generous everyone was. My dining room is overflowing with baby stuff. My girlfriends also outdid themselves! On top of buying her the travel system, her pack-n-play, her high chair and the extra base for the car seat, each one did something special. Auntie Alli got her the most adorable little pink wagon and filled it with lots of goodies. Auntie Brianne made her a diaper cake with tons of wash clothes, bibs and onsies. And Auntie Jill got her the cutest clothes including her beautiful outfit she'll be brought home from the hospital in. They are three amazing ladies and I'm blessed to have them in my life and my daughter will be just as blessed. I love them all so dearly.

I think we will forever be in my Mother's debt though. She threw such a beautiful shower for me. It was just the way I wanted the day to go. I had such a great time and I owe that all to her. She was so happy that day! When I show everyone the pictures from the shower they tell me my Mom has the pregnancy glow too! She is such a wonderful, caring person and she means the world to me! I have a little surprise in store for her. I'm planning a Girlee day on July 19th to Thank her ;o)

Here is the link to some pictures:
share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8KctWrNuza_8

On another note, we had our 3rd baby class on Monday. They taught us the third breathing method and we got to watch a video on the three stages of labor. Fun!

Today the last piece of furniture is being delivered that Art will have to put together so there will be no question on whether he can get it up the stairs or not! I'm really excited because I want to start organizing where to put her clothes and get her room completely done. I still have to finish her letters. I have three more to paint and then they can be hung up. But my most exciting news is the shelving unit we're getting! I've been struggling with what to put on her walls. Her letters are being hung above her crib. On the wall about the dresser I'm putting three frames. One with my baby picture, one with Art's baby picture and one frame left for her baby picture. But I've been stumped on what to do with the wall above the changing table, which happens to be the biggest wall in the room. Well I was watching an episode of A Baby Story and saw this shelving unit this couple had up in their nursery. I LOVED it! It was one big unit with a bunch of shelf in it (it doesn't sound very pretty but it was). Ever since I saw that piece I wanted one for the nursery. I've looked EVERYWHERE and I can't find anything even close to what I'm looking for. I was getting really bummed UNTIL an idea popped into my head. I could ask Brianne to ask her Mom if she could build it for me. She does all that kind of stuff. So I emailed Brianne with a little "drawing" I did in paint because I had no picture to show her and she said no problem!!!! I'm sooooo excited! So now I just have to give her the measurements and she'll start on my beautiful piece. YAY!!!

So I think pregnancy is catching up to me. I officially have cankles and sausages as fingers. I am so tired and my body feels so worn out by the time I get home from work. It's making it a little hard to get things done around the house which is really bugging me because if you know me you know I like things done yesterday. With all the stuff from the shower in the dining room it's driving me nuts! I just want to get it all organized and put together or put away. I honestly can't wait to go on Maternity Leave. 6 MORE WEEKS =)

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

I passed!!!

Phew!!! I still have the bruises on my arms from them taking my blood so much but at least I don't have to deal with Gestational Diabetes. Now I can continue to eat all the carbs I want!!!

So as I said in the last post, the last piece of her furniture was being delivered. Well guess what...it wouldn't fit up the stairs!! So my father-in-law & brother-in-law came over Saturday and once again, they couldn't fit it up the stairs either! I was sooo upset but didn't want to show it. Art knew how bad I wanted that set up there so he was really pissed & angry that they couldn't do it. I think I was more pissed because I know what a hassle it was to return the first set of furniture to BRU (which we're still fighting with them about) and I didn't want to go through this all over again.

However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. They really knocked up the armoire trying to get it up the stairs. There are scratches all over the sides & front so we were afraid BRU wouldn't even take it back. Sooo, we actually decided to keep it! We have all cherry furniture in our living room and it matches perfectly so we decided to get rid of the small book case we had and we replaced it with the armoire. It looks so nice! And we found a dresser on BRU.com that you have to put together yourself for $250. So we ordered that and Art will just put it together in the baby’s room. No more trying to get furniture up there. So now we’re just waiting for the new dresser (the THIRD dresser) to come and this furniture nightmare will be over!!! I really hate my stairs! Who ever decided to build my stairs with a 90 degree angle is an idiot! If we ever put the extension on that we're talking about putting on the first thing I'm telling them to do is blow out the wall in the living room and extend my stairs straight!!!

Anyway, I had my doctor appointment on Monday. Everything is going great so far. I'm up a total of 7 pounds and measuring right on schedule. We listened to LC's heartbeat and what a strong heartbeat it was!!! Even the doctor said "Wow, listen to that sound. Nice & Strong!" I'm feeling good. I'm getting very achy though. My lower back hurts and at the end of the day I start feeling some pressure. But it's nothing unbearable. I only have to put up with it for a few more weeks.

Monday we had our second class. She started to teach us Lamaze breathing. It's really starting to hit me now that in two months I'm having this baby! I'm so afraid of the whole giving birth process. I think what's scaring me the most is the fear of not knowing what it feels like. I know that I'll be fine and that I can handle it but I'm just freaking out a little. But I'm also getting so anxious and sooo excited! I can't wait for her to finally be here and to hold her in my arms. I think I'm most excited to see Art with his daughter! I just pray everything will go alright and we have a healthy, beautiful baby girl!

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

I'm 30!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm officially 30 weeks today...WOOHOO!!! I'm so excited for some reason. I hope I'm this excited when I actually turn 30, which isn't too far away ;o)

Art & I had our first baby class last night. We actually really liked it. Everyone has a different opinion on these classes. Some say they're good, some say they're a waste of money. Art & I both decided to go and form our own opinion about them. We think they're going to be a real help. Especially for Art. He's never really been around babies so some of this stuff is new to him. Yesterday they went over caring for the baby, washing her and changing her diaper. They also taught us how to swaddle and Art got up in front of the whole class to demonstrate. I was such a proud Mama...LOL! We go back on Monday and she'll start teaching us Lamaze breathing for labor. Sounds fun right?

Saturday I went for my 3 hour Glucose test. It wasn't that bad. I had to drink my orange drink when I got there and they had to take my blood four times, at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30. And I had to wait there the entire time. But they had a nice room there with a comfy recliner and cable TV so it was like sitting at home. The worst part was getting the blood drawn four times. My arms are still black & blue from it! Now I just wait for the results. I really hope I pass!!!

Today the last piece of baby furniture is coming. I'm sooo excited! There's still so much that needs to be done around the house though. It's really stressing me out! I feel so overwhelmed at times. I just wish I could hire someone to come in and clean the closet's out, finish the stairs, repaint the hallway, fix the basement and decorate her room. Uggghhhh! It'll get done though, little by little. I hope!

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

I failed....

By 1 friggin point!!!!!!!!! To fail the glucose test you need to score 135 or higher. Guess what my score was......135!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so mad! My doctor said the number was changed recently too. It used to be 140 or higher but there was 1 case where a woman ended up having Gestational Diabetes with a score of 138 so they had to lower it. He said 95% of people who score between 135-140 pass the 3 hour but it just stinks that I have to go for 1 point! Now I have to go to the lab and just wait to drink my drink every hour and get my blood drawn every hour. Anyone have a good book to read??? The good news is he said since my score was 135 I shouldn't really worry. If it was higher he said there would be cause for concern but he doesn't think I'll fail. Bad news is if I do fail I have to go to a nutritionist who will give me a list of foods I can and can not eat. I'm such a picky eater already with this pregnancy, how much more can I cut out? Probably breads which is my only saviour. God I hope I pass!!!

On a happy note, I took my Mom with me to my doctor's appointment yesterday and she got to hear LC's heartbeat! She was sooo cute! She got all teary eyed when she heard it (Yes Mother, I saw you tear up)! I actually lost a pound since last week so I'm only up 4 but baby is doing great and has a nice, strong heartbeat. He said I'm measuring right on schedule and everything looks & sounds great! I have to start going every 2 weeks now instead of every 4.

Our birthing class starts on Monday. It's a 2 hour class every Monday for 5 weeks. I'm actually really excited about it. Art, well he's a different story. Considering Monday's are his only day he doesn't have to work late these days he's not as excited as I am but he'll be there with a smile on his face. He's a trooper. He's been such a great hubby! I love when he talks about how excited he is to finally meet his daughter. He gets this little grin on his face and his dimples come out...It's so cute!

So today is suppose to be the last day of the heat wave. I REALLY hope so. It's killing me. Yesterday was brutal on me. I just couldn't get cool yesterday when I got home. I was sitting in the living room with my little dress on and the AC blowing right on me and it still didn't help. I did manage to sleep good, which is the most important part! But this heat is keeping me from doing things that need to be done around the house. Hopefully this weekend it'll be cooler and I can actually get things done!

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

No more rings for me =(

Yesterday was the first day I couldn't wear my wedding rings. I'm so upset! I LOVE my rings! To see them sitting in my jewelry box not being worn is just a sin. But they just aren't comfortable anymore. My fingers get so fat and swollen by the end of the day the fat literally hangs over the rings. Then I have to get out the lotion or the soap to help yank them off my finger. So the claddagh ring that Art gave me for our 6 month dating anniversary is on...LOL! The lady my Mom works with has two sets of fake rings that she's going to let me wear. I hope I like them because I don't feel like going out and buying a fake set!

I had my 1 hour glucose test this morning. I had to drink my "orange" drink at 8 and be at the doctor's office exactly 1 hour later so they could take blood. If I fail the test I have to go back for a 3 hour test. Let's hope I pass!!! Everyone talks about how horrible this damn "orange" drink is but I thought it was fine. If you like orange soda than you'll like the drink. I happen to like it so I was fine. I'll post the results when I hear back.

My next doctor's appointment is on Monday. My Mom is coming with me so she can hear LC's heartbeat. She's so excited! After that appointment I start going every two weeks! It's getting so close =)

I'm starting to feel uncomfortable though. By the time I get home from work I'm so tired, my back hurts and I just feel SOOO big. I told Art the other day I feel like I should have a sling holding up my belly! Like it's going to fall off or something! Strange, I know, but I swear it's hard to hold up sometimes! I can tell these last 12 weeks are going to be a little tough. Especially August. Besides that I feel great! My eating habits are getting a little bad again. Things aren't tasting that tasty anymore (except for ice cream and cake) and dinner is beginning to look less and less appealing. I hope I don't get like I was in my first trimester again. I was reading my pregnancy book and it says by now I should be up 17-25 pounds. I'm up 5!

This weekend is going to be 90 degrees so we'll get to see for the first time how badly the heat will affect me. There's a Seafood Festival in Belmar that we're going to. It'll be interesting to see how long I last. Art says maybe we should rethink going but I want my Lobster damn it!!!!!!! That is something that I'll never get sick of! At least I hope not ;)

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Funny story!

I've been telling Art that LC's kicks have been getting stronger & stronger. She kicks so hard sometimes that you can see my belly jump from it. I've been trying to get him to feel her kick again (he's only felt her once or twice since Jamaica) but she just stops kicking once he puts his hand there.

So every night when I go to bed Art comes upstairs with me to tuck me in. He gives me a kiss, talks or sings to LC for a little bit and then he puts his head on my belly to see if he can hear her. So last night we went through our regular routine. He was talking to LC a little bit and then he put his head on my belly. All of a sudden my little girl gave the biggest kick/punch ever! Art jumped up so high and started yelling "OMG OMG She just kicked me in the head! My daughter kicked me in the side of my head!" It was the funniest thing EVER! He just couldn't believe how strong it was. I was hysterical and I couldn't stop laughing! The look on his face was priceless. I honestly wish I had that on tape. It was great!

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Welcome to the Third Trimester!!!

I'm 27 weeks today which means I'm in my third trimester!!! That actually kind of freaks me out! My ticker popped up this morning "91 days left!" I can't believe how fast it's going. I'm feeling great! I'm finally gaining weight and am up 3 pounds total for the whole pregnancy. But I think these last three months are going to be a little tough on me. This past weekend it was pretty hot out and it was definitely affecting me. I was tired (I have to start taking my afternoon naps again), my fingers got swollen during the day and my feet too but just a little. My legs really hurt me on Sunday too. We had a BBQ at the house on Saturday and I think I was on my feet too long. I'm hoping things won't be too bad but we'll see how I'm doing by August.

Right now my last day of work is going to be August 8th which gives me a little over 2 months to go. IF I can go another week to the 15th I will but what's the point really? I'd rather be home getting some rest before the princess makes her appearance. Plus, I'm sure there will be some last minute things around the house I'll need to do.

Yesterday I started washing some of the baby clothes Nicole gave us so I could put them away. This may sound so stupid but I was so excited to put her clothes away in her dresser and hang some stuff up in her closet. It makes it seem a little more real. Yes Katie, eventually there will be someone sleeping in that room! Art is so anxious for her to get here. All he keeps saying is he wants to meet his daughter. Soon enough my dear, soon enough!!!

Thursday, May 22, 2008

My aching back =(

OYE!!! My back has hurt me so much this week. I've tried a heating pad at night, taking hot baths, doing my Yoga but nothing helps, it still hurts all day, especially at work! Someone told me that I should put a rolled up towel behind me while I'm sitting in work, like where my back curves, so maybe I'll try that. And I'm going to start sleeping with a pillow under my back. I'm looking into making an appointment for a prenatal massage but I'm not sure if I should do it now or wait a few weeks until I'm really in pain. Maybe I'll just get one now and later =)

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

3 years ago today...

I married an amazing man!!! Happy 3rd Anniversary to us! The trip to Jamaica was our gift to each other and Saturday we went out to dinner to celebrate. Tonight we'll just have a quiet dinner at home and maybe watch the wedding video.

My house is actually starting to look like a house again!!! The baby's room is coming together so nicely. Art's done with the crown molding except for one little spot and I have some touch up work to do in a few spots but that's it, it's done. I'm working on painting the letters of her name now to hang over the crib. They're a lot harder than I thought! And I've been trying to find the perfect chandelier for her room but I hate everything I see! I found one at Pottery Barn Kids but it's on the expensive side. I don't know if I can justify spending the money...yet!

Arthur & I were laying in bed with Marino on Sunday talking. We just finished taking a nap (he gets preggo symptoms too). I said "Do you realize that in a few months LC will be right here laying with us?" He said "I can't wait! I'll be with my two favorite girls!" Then we talked about how it's a little bittersweet because it's just been the two of us for 9 years and now we'll have a new addition to our family. We're so excited though. We can't wait to meet her and to see what she looks like. Art says she's going to look just like me except with blue eyes. He's really stuck on these blue eyes!!! We also talked about when we think she'll be born. We both agree I'm going to go late and we'll have a September baby. Art says September 2nd or 3rd. He also said if she is born on those dates then he'll be watching the Giants opening game at St. Clare's hospital with his daughter in his arms. He's so cute! I'm so excited to see him as a Father. He's going to be amazing with her!

My Mom is coming home today from Florida. She was visiting Rod and family. She said they have tons of clothes for me! This little girl has sooo much clothes already. I have 3 bags at home and whatever Charlene will send me plus new things she'll get. It's going to be insane!

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Real quick...

I just got back to work and the furniture was delivered!!! Not all of it, the armoire had to be special ordered so it'll be a few more weeks, but the changing table and the crib are here! OMG they're beautiful!!! I sent a picture to my Mom and she said she thinks this furniture is so much nicer than the old furniture. YAY!!!

Monday, May 12, 2008

What a very special day!!!

Yesterday was Mother's Day and although I wasn't planning on celebrating everyone made it such a special day! So many friends wrote to wish me a Happy Mother's Day. I even got a message from Zach, Art's friend, telling me to have a great day. My brother and sister-in-law sent me a card, my mother-in-law sent me a card, my Mother got me beautiful flowers and Arthur out did himself. In the morning he cooked me pancakes. That was a nice way to start off my day. When I went downstairs there was a present on the kitchen table. He got me the prenatal yoga video I've been wanting to get, a cherry frame for the babies room, a pink baby photo album and a baby memories book to record all our most important moments with LC. You can fill it out from now all the way up until her 5th birthday. I love it so much! I started filling it out already! Art went up to his parents house for a little while to see his Mom and give her her present and I spent the day sitting on the deck with my Mother. We BBQ'd and had a great dinner. It was a really really nice day!

Saturday the carpet was installed in the baby's room. It looks GREAT! Some of the new furniture is being delivered tomorrow and the old furniture is being picked up (THANK GOD). It's really coming together. A few more things here and there and it'll be finished!

This morning I had a doctor's appointment. LC's heartbeat is nice and strong and I'm right where I should be. I've been sick since last week though so dealing with that has been hell. Especially since I can't take anything for it. I'm getting better though but I still have a nasty cough. But the best news is, I gained 5 pounds!!! So I gained everything back and I'm officially at 0 weight gain so far...WoooHooo!!! I think Jamaica had a lot to do with that =)

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

I forgot the most important part!!!

I don't know how I forgot to put this in yesterday's post! Art has been dying to feel LC kick. So every time I feel her kicking away I call him over and as soon as he puts his hand on my stomach she stops. He's been getting real bummed about it.

On Saturday, our first day in Jamaica, Art & I were in the pool floating on our rafts and she started kicking (I think she's gonna be like her Daddy and swim because she really liked the water). Of course he puts his hand on my stomach and she stopped. I told him to just leave it there and see what happens. So there we were floating around on a raft in the pool and Art has his hand on my stomach and all of a sudden she gave a huge kick! Art jumped up from his raft and said "I felt her!" It was sooo cute and he was so excited! I was very proud of our little girl =)

He felt her quite a few more times after that day. He was in his glory!

Monday, May 5, 2008

Back from Jamaica!!!

We actually got back from Sandals Whitehouse late Wednesday night but I haven't had a chance to write. The trip was fantastic! Exactly what we needed. All we did was lay by the pool or on the beach, read our books, had some drinks (virgin for me of course) and ate a WHOLE lot of food. The flight was great. No delays and nice & smooth. The ride to the hotel was, on the other hand, crazy! It was an hour & a half ride to the hotel on this tiny road that is very bumpy and a little scary at times. But once you arrive it's all worth it! The hotel was gorgeous! It's the newest of the Sandals resorts and you can tell. It was just beautiful! Here's the link to the pictures if you're interested.
share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8KctWrNuzazM

Thursday our baby furniture was delivered. Of course the guys had a problem getting the armoire up the stairs. I hate my stairs!!! Honestly, whoever designed my house is a moron! My brother-in-law and father-in-law came over on Saturday to try to get it up but they couldn't do it =( So off I went to Babies R Us to pick out the other set we liked. That was a hassle of course and I'm still waiting for the guy to call me back and tell me how we're going to go about doing the exchange. I'm sorry, but am I the first person to EVER exchange furniture??? Because that's what it seems like. No one there knows what the hell they're doing!!!

The nursery is coming along very well! Art's doing a great job on the chair rail and I'm almost finished touching up the stripes. I have to get it done by Saturday because the carpet is being installed. I can't wait for this room to be done and for the furniture to be delivered. I have crap all over the house. I have a crib and armoire sitting in my dining room, a changing table sitting in my bedroom, baby clothes in three bags sitting in my second bedroom and a whole lot of crap that we're storing for the garage sale. My house is an absolute mess!!! Hopefully by the end of this month that all will change.

On a lighter note, we signed LC up for Daycare! Not one of the happiest moments of my life but I have to say I really love it there. I love the people. They're so nice and I know she'll be in good hands. They even gave me a bib that says "Welcome to the family!" After all the money I'll be giving to them they should give me more than a friggin bib!

We got two adorable gifts before we left. Girlee is just something my Mother & I started calling each other. I have no idea why or where it came from it's just something we started saying. So Nana Mary got LC a sweat shirt that says "The Third Girlee!" It's adorable!!!

Aunt Alli & Uncle Anthony also got her a little pink onsie that says "Kiss me I'm Irish!" It's so cute and came in the cutest box ever! And it's pink & brown so it goes with her room! I'm going to keep it and put her little hair stuff in it.

So that's about it. We have a class on Wednesday. It's called Happiest Baby on the Block. It's suppose to be a GREAT class! The nurse who gave us the tour of St. Clare's raved about it as did Art's friend who also delivered at St. Clare's. We shall see!

Monday, April 21, 2008

Catching up...

Tuesday Art, Me & my Mom went for a tour of St. Clare's. All I can say is Holy Shit! The maternity ward is so beautiful! I've heard great things about this hospital but it was nice to see it for ourselves and see where we need to go and what exactly what will happen when the time comes (well, not EXACTLY what will happen). They took us to see the labor room, the nursery and the private SUITE we'll be staying in after the baby is born. The suite is amazing. It has a pull out couch for Art (He's staying with me in the hospital), a private bathroom with shower, TV, DVD player, Internet Access. It was like a freaking hotel room! The best part, besides that it's private which means no sharing of the room, is we get to chose when the baby stays with us. If we want we can have her in the room with us all the time. If we want to get a good night sleep before we go home we can chose to keep her until bed time and then send her to the nursery. Oh, and another bonus, every new Mom gets a massage before they are released from the hospital!!! How awesome is that? Overall, we were all very impressed with the hospital. I have to say I got so emotional leaving there. When we were walking the halls some people who were staying there had their doors open so you could see into the rooms. You could see the new baby's and the visitors coming in with flowers and balloons. It just made everything so real. In 4 few short months that will be Art & I with LC and people coming to visit us. Maybe it was just my pregnancy hormones but it really got me teary eyed. Luckily I held them back until after we left the hospital!

The end of last week was a little rough for me. I had my first couple of days of feeling like complete crap! I think I'm doing way too much at home. Art tells me to sit on the couch and relax while he works on the baby's room but I just can't do that. I feel helpless. So Wednesday Art was working late so I started working on the touch upsin the room. Thursday I woke up and my legs and back were killing me. I told Art it felt like my legs couldn't hold up my body. Like there were going to give way at any moment. Then the pain in my lower back...OYE!!! So I had to take it easy for the last few days. Thursday I went home and laid on the couch with the heating pad on my back. Friday I felt much better. But that taught me a lesson! I really have to watch what I'm doing and how much of it I'm doing.

We also went to see another daycare on Thursday and I think this is it! It's in Denville. We were both really impressed with it. It's a Kinder Care but a smaller facility which I really liked. The director was great and we got to meet the teachers in the infant room and both were really nice. There is one more we're going to try to see this week but we'll probably enrolled LC by the end of the week.

I'm feeling pretty good though! I can't be on my feet too long. After walking around Saturday I had to lay down for an hour or so to rest. I have to get it through my thick head that I can't do as much anymore. But I'm eating much better. I even gained 3 pounds back which only puts me down 5 pounds. I have a feeling I'm going to start gaining now. I feel myself getting bigger & bigger.

Nursery updates:
Friday we went to Home Depot for the chair rail and carpet. They're coming in Saturday (the 26th) to measure and give us a quote. When we got home Art put a piece of the chair rail up and it looks GORGEOUS! I just can't believe how one little piece of wood can make such a difference in a room. I can't wait for it all to be done because it's coming together so nicely. Our little girl is going to have such a pretty room! That's about all we did with the baby's room this weekend. Art worked a little on it but we spent a lot of time running around and packing for our trip Friday. Thank God we're going on vacation! We both REALLY need it!

Monday, April 14, 2008

Fun filled baby weekend!

We got a lot done this weekend.

Friday I went to Home Depot and got the pink paint for the baby's room and Art started painting away. I LOVE the color! It's so pretty. I told Art if we wanted we could just leave the room the way it was (with the pink on top and beige on bottom) but I really want the chair rail & stripes...LOL!

Saturday we spent about 5 hours in Babies R Us. That's a LOT of time in one store!!! We met Art's parents there because they generously offered to buy us our furniture. We got there and showed them the set we liked. Then we saw another set we fell in love with so we were trying to decide between the two sets. We decided we loved the original set so much more but then we couldn't decide on the color, either Tea Stain or Espresso. We FINALLY made a decision. I posted the link below. We're sooo excited! I can't wait for it to come. The changing table actually has a hutch but we thought having the two big pieces (the armoire & the hutch) would be too much for that room so we just got the changing table. If we want to buy it later on down the line we could.

Here it is:
http://www.babiitalia.com/html/bi_pts.html

After that was ordered my in-law's left and we stayed so we could register. Wow, that was a lot of fun yet very confusing...LOL! But I think we did a pretty good job. Of course I came home and had my Mother critique it for me. I love some of the stuff we registered for though. It's just so cute. After we left there we went to TGI Friday's for lunch/dinner and went over everything we got and what we missed. All we kept saying is "I can't believe we just registered for our daughter!" It's so surreal!!!

Sunday we dedicated the whole day to painting the nursery. The top and bottom were pretty much done we just had to work on putting the tape up for the stripes and painting those. Art did a great job on tapping the stripes which is a LOT harder than it looks. We got half of the room done. We'll just have to finish the stripes on the other half, do some touch ups and then the room is done! I'd say definitely by the end of this weekend. Next thing on the list, going to go to Home Depot to price a new rug. We'll do that some time this week.

I had another check up this morning. In my practice there are 6 doctors, 3 woman and 3 men. Throughout your pregnancy you have to meet with all of them at least once. The one I met with today I had never met before but he was the nicest man I've ever met! We heard LC's heartbeat and we went over the results from our ultrasound on Wednesday. He said the baby looks great! She's measuring right on schedule. He also said I looked great! I still haven't gained any weight (I'm down 8) but he said I'm doing really good and I had great coloring. What ever that means...LOL! Then what he said was music to my ears..."You look great, the baby looks great so you're ok to fly next week!!!! WooooHoooo...Jamaica here we come =)

Thursday, April 10, 2008

IT'S A GIRL!!!

We're having a little Girl!!!!!!!!!!!!

The tech at our NT Scan (the same tech we had yesterday) told us she thought we were having a girl and she was right! We're both so excited! For the last two months we had Girl in our heads and Art is really looking forward to it. He said if they told him Boy it would have really thrown him off! He says she's going to be Daddy's Little Girl...LOL!

I tried posting some pics below that we got yesterday but they weren't coming out right so I posted the link. The tech gave us about 9 of them. LC wasn't co-operating so we couldn't get a great pic of her. For the last couple of nights I've been getting up at 12 a.m. to go to the bathroom and when I lay back down the baby moves like crazy. I told Art he's got a night owl on his hands. So when the baby wasn't co-operating yesterday I told Art we were disturbing her sleep time. You can really tell in the pic below because she's covering her face like "Leave me alone Mommy!" It was so cute!

After we left the hospital we called our family & friends. Everyone is real excited. I also called my Grandpa. He likes to make the phone calls to everyone in the family to spread the news. When I was on the phone with him he asked me if we had any names picked out. I told him we were unsure of the first name but we'd like to have the baby's middle name Ellen, after Grandma. He was so touched and so excited! I said to him "Well it's such a beautiful name." And he said "Well she's a beautiful lady. My lady!" I can only wish that after 64 years of marriage Art & I are as in love as they are.

So here comes a busy baby weekend. Friday we're going to finish painting the bottom of the chair rail in the nursery and then go to Home Depot to buy the pink paint for the top. Saturday my wonderful Mother is coming over so we can get some things together for the shower. After that Art & I are going nursery furniture shopping with my in-laws and then we're going to register. And Sunday is more working on the nursery. If everything goes well the room will be painted (at least the first coat) by the end of the weekend!

And to top everything off we came home to a BEAUTIFULLY paved driveway!!! I've never been so happy about asphalt in my life!!!

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8KctWrNuzaxE

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

20 Weeks = HALF WAY THERE!!!

Well we've officially hit the half way mark! I can't believe it. Time is flying by! Saturday Art & I went for our first baby class. It was just an introductory class. They tell you about symptoms you're feeling and how to deal with them. They gave me stretches I have to do everyday and a relaxation treatment. They also taught Art a massage to give me when I need it! They said I could give it to him too but is that really necessary? Next week we're going for a tour of the hospital. My Mom's coming with us so she can see the hospital too. I think my Mother-in-law is pretty familiar with it considering she works there...LOL! We also signed up for a Baby and Pets class. They give you tips on how to bring the baby home if you have pets. Marino is a very jealous little man so I'm afraid he'll have some adjusting to do. The easier I can make it for him the better!

I think my cravings are starting to kick in. Art had to work late yesterday so I was home watching some movie. The girl in the movie took out a coconut cake and started eating it. After seeing it that's all I could think of!!! I text Art "I want a coconut cake!" He must of thought I was nuts! But he went to A&P for me and brought me home the BEST coconut cake a pregnant girl could ask for!!! I even saved some for tonight! Art said he wishes he was pregnant so he could eat whatever he wants! I'm feeling great though. No complaints at all! I'm still down 7 pounds but my doctor isn't worried at all. She said the baby is growing and is healthy so that's all that matters!

Tomorrow is a VERY big day for us. We find out for sure if we're having a boy or a girl!!! I'm so excited I can't sleep at night. I was up at 1:oo this morning just thinking about it. After this I have a feeling it's going to go by even faster. So many things are on hold until we find out...registering, finishing the nursery, the shower. So say a little prayer that LC (my short name for Little C) co-operates and they'll be able to tell. Otherwise I have NO idea what we're going to do!!!

Thursday, April 3, 2008

I finally felt the baby move!!!

So Tuesday night after the tornado (or what sounded like a tornado) it got really windy outside. Marino does not like the wind and when Marino can't sleep, I can't sleep. So I was up from about 12-3 watching movies. I watched the end of Message in a Bottle (cried my eyes out of course) and Something About Mary. Well I guess he/she really liked the movie because at about 1 a.m. I felt the little flultters of Little C moving around!!! It was so amazing! I don't know why but I just froze. Like if I moved at all he/she would stop moving. Then I looked around for Art to tell him but he was sleeping in a coma so I couldn't wake him up. I wanted to tell someone so badly so I looked at Marino & said "I just felt your little brother or sister!" You know it's bad when you're having a conversation with your dog at 1 o'clock in the morning! But I was convinced he understood me...LOL! I told Art in the morning and he smiled so much! He knew I was waiting for this!

Wednesday I was laying on the couch and I felt the baby again. Art was sitting on the couch next to me and I told him I just felt the baby move. He got up to come over because he wanted to feel him/her too but I told him it was too soon for that. He wouldn't feel the baby for a few weeks. He got all upset. At night when I was going to bed he put his head to my belly, as he does every night, to "listen" for Little C. He claims he heard the baby moving around. He heard little bubbles and he knew it was the baby. He's so cute sometimes!

Tuesday was 19 weeks. One more week until the BIG ultrsound. I changed the date from the 16th to the 9th. I couldn't wait anymore! Besides, the week of the 16th I'll be 21 weeks. This is a 20 week ultrasound so it only made sense to change it =)

Anyway, here's the 19 week picture! I can't wait for the warm weather!!!

Thursday, March 27, 2008

The nursery is on it's way!!!

I'm so excited that the work on the nursery has started! I wanted to hire someone to come in and do the room for us since Art works 6 days a week and has other projects around the house he's working on but he said no way. It really meant a lot to him to make the room perfect for his little boy or girl. So he's been busting his a** working on it. He sanded down all the woodwork, fixed the little crown molding that is up in that room and put a fresh coat of white paint on everything and the ceiling. On Tuesday I went to Home Depot to pick out the colors for the bottom of the chair rail. Since it will be the same whether we have a boy or a girl he can get started on that part. I also looked at some molding for the chair rail. They had one that had a cute little design carved into it that would look so cute in the nursery. I have to take Art to see it. He trusted me picking out the colors but the chair rail he needs to approve....LOL! We're going out with my in-law's in the next week or two to pick out the furniture. We have two sets we like so we're going to take them to see it. We also have to figure out what we're doing with the floor. We were thinking of putting pergo down and getting an area rug but we may just have to re-carpet for now and save that for another time. I can't wait until it's finished to see how it all comes together!!!

Art & I are in the process of finding a daycare. It's extremely depressing! But I'm feeling great these days! I'm getting my appetite back. I'm still not eating a lot but I'm eating more often which makes me happy. I even gained 2 pounds back! WoooHooo!!!

Monday, March 24, 2008

It's been a while!

Sorry I haven't posted anything in so long! Last week was a little crazy for us. Tuesday I went for my monthly check up. We got to listen to the baby's heartbeat again. It still sounds nice and strong! They also had to take blood for the AFP test. I should get those results in about a week.

Wednesday we had a little scare. I woke up in the morning and something just wasn't right (I'll spare you the gory details). I called my doctor and they told me to come in for testing. Turns out I have a little bacterial infection and they had to put me on antibiotics. They promised me the baby was fine and is in no harm and I got to listen to the heartbeat again which was a huge relief. I can't tell you how scared we were thinking something could be wrong with the baby but thankfully everything is fine. They did have to send away for some tests. If I don't hear anything after two weeks then I'm a-OK!

Thursday & Friday were so hard on my little Marino! The wind was insane! He gets so frightened. Thursday we came home from work to such a site! We have the door to the nursery closed because Art is working on it. Well I guess Marino really wanted to get into that room because he was scratching at the door. He scratched so hard he ripped his nail off and there was a puddle of blood on the carpet. I started crying hysterical and took him down to the vet. He said Marino is fine and sent us on our way. The wind didn't stop all night which kept Marino up all night which kept me up all night. I just can't sleep when he's like that. Friday it was still windy but not as bad so we didn't come home to anything crazy that night. But my poor baby is walking with a little limp. It breaks my heart! But by Sunday he was doing a lot better!

Tomorrow I will be 5 months! I can't believe it! Time is flying by. And it'll probably go even faster because we have an exciting few weeks coming up! April 5th is our first class, Mommy & Baby. Art has to come with me to that one. I'm actually really excited to go! April 14th is another doctor appointment and April 16th is our BIG ultrasound where Little C's sex will be revealed...We Hope! After that we can register, Mom can order the baby shower invites and we can finish painting the nursery! We're also getting our driveway paved and then on the 25th we jet off to Jamaica for a VERY needed vacation!!! I'm sure I don't have to tell you how excited we are =)