**CAUTION**
This post contains some very vague (but maybe a little too detailed) explanations of why this week ended so horribly. Basically...puke. Read at your own risk.
How Far Along: 16 weeks
Size of Baby: an avacado (there's so much irony that this kid is the size of an avacado this week, I can't even...I just...blech.)
Gender: Still a mystery.
Movement: Just the tiniest, faintest, sweetest, little flutters. It doesn't happen often, to where I can feel them, but I have felt them. And I can't wait for more!!! And I really can't wait til this kid gets active enough for Josiah to be able to feel.
Maternity Clothes: Kinda digging those new jeans I bought a few weeks back. And my basic maternity tees. Next chance I get, I'm gonna buy a few more in different colors.
Sleep: Well, let's just say that Friday night was a girls' retreat in which I "slept" on a couch in a room full of college-aged girls who don't need sleep. It was such a great time overall, but this 30-year-old pregnant lady was struggling. THEN, the next night was spent in a hotel room sharing a bed with my cuddly, kicky toddler and my husband loudly snoring away in the other bed. My unborn child decided to start acting like he/she was S T A R V I N G right around midnight and there was an enormous amount of streetlight streaming in the window (yes, the curtains were closed). Did I mention it was gonna be an extremely early morning for us? I actually cried. AND THEN...Sunday night was...well...you'll see. *shutter* So...needless to say, I have much to desire in the sleep department this next week.
Cravings: Still the same sweets, sweets, sweets. Not helping the weight gain I'm supposed to be controlling. Also...a random craving for Cheetos popped up earlier last week. And several other things solely due to the power of suggestion.
Aversions: Ummm...well...a number of things now (more explanation below). Definitely not tolerating any guac. in the near or probably even distant future (hence the irony of the avacado). (And just for the record...I haven't been able to eat any guacamole since this pregnancy began, but even the mere sight of it has caused me such grief.) Or black bean and cheese quesadillas...just typing that makes me...queasy. Which is a little sad, because those are such a yummy, cheap, go-to meal option for us. But no.
What I'm Missing: Nothing, really.
Symptoms: Out.of.breath. Still exhausted. Random indigestion.
Best Moment This Week: Whatever good moments were had this last week were definitely over-shadowed by my worst moment this week. Sadly. Although, I do recall going to the doctor appointment in Thursday and being able to hear that sweet, little heartbeat. Always a momentous occasion.
Worst Moment This Week: At first, I thought it was the morning I woke up with the cough of someone who's been chain-smoking for 40 years. It's rather uncomfortable to muster one of those deep coughs when pregnant. Muscles get all pulled and stuff. But that was a day at the spa compared to what occurred on Sunday night. As badly I want to give all the gory details, and I kinda do, I'll be kind enough to spare you. I will, however, just say that I am NOT, not, not a vomiter. I can't. I won't. I refuse. I could never be bulimic. The last time I recall being sick enough to barf was the second day of my honeymoon when I had strep throat. (MAJOR bummer, I know.) I can never remember a time when I had a full-blown stomach bug or food poisoning or anything of the like. It was just awful and tragic. I mean...my ribs are still sore 2 days later. It was like, making up for lost time or something. And it was just so weird being pregnant and not being able to eat much of anything for the whole next day. Poor kid. And even worse that Matt got it only 12 hours later when I hadn't even had much of a chance to recover. Last night in the Hoog House was a freakin' joke. I'm pretty sure Josiah tried to take advantage of our sad weakness a few times. But I will say, we are definitely on the mend and feeling much better today! Thank the Lord! Never wanna go down that road again.
Looking Forward To: That BIG ultrasound day! One month away!
Daddy's Involvement: Again, I'm sure he was great and sweet and loving the whole week...but then he got sick on the tail-end of my bout and was useless. Which, who can blame him, really?
Big Brother's Involvement: This sweet kid. Y'all probably think I'm making this stuff up. But if you know him...you know I'm telling the truth. One morning this last week, we were all lounging in bed together, cuddling and avoiding the inevitable wake-up time and he turned to me, barely awake and said the sweetest thing. He said, "Mommy, I love you so much. And I love your boy...ummm...I mean...your "grill" (girl) baby in your tummy." (I just want it noted that I did not and never have corrected him, prompted him or led him in any way to say this kid is a girl. Maybe someone else has, but not me.)
Another really cute thing I meant to mention last week: we were hanging out in the hammock outside one day a couple weeks ago and he was bringing tiny rocks and putting them on my belly. After he brought a few, he suddenly stopped mid-run, turned back around and said, "Oh, we should put the rocks on your tummy, because we don't want the baby to eat the rocks!" What a little smarty-pants!
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Weeks 14 and 15
Size of Baby: a lemon last week and an apple this week
Gender: Getting closer to finding out! Only about a month left.
Movement: I really, really think I've felt this little nugget wiggle around in there a few times, but it's still so hard to tell.
Maternity Clothes: Does already having to wear the fake "diamond" engagement ring count as maternity? After last pregnancy, my knuckles stayed a little swollen and I've never been able to wear my wedding band, but after the hot summer days, I was able to slip my engagement ring on fairly well. With the warmth of the spring starting to come in, I've already had a few scares involving me having to really fight to get my ring off. I decided one day a couple weeks ago that I better not risk it anymore. So, I used a little of that Penny's money (I knew the rest that Matt didn't buy would come in handy eventually) to buy myself a GIANT, very fake diamond-looking ring for ten bucks. I have this weird thing about looking like I'm not married, but have a toddler and am pregnant again. I know most people don't even pay attention to stuff like that...but some do. And we have a few church services coming up where we'll be special missionary guests and it's just best to not leave those things up the imagination. You know? (**Note: I'm not big on huge rings, but all they had were HUGE stones. I've already hurt myself and Josiah.)
Mood: A little better this week. The sun has been shining. The wildflowers are blooming. The trees are significantly more green. I've gotten a break from that monotonous routine and got a little extra sleep/rest. I've still been a bit hormonal and can go from 0 to 60 in 2 seconds (crying or
Sleep: Y'all. Spring Break was great. There was one day where I took three separate naps. Two were accidental, but the third was totally intentional...and incredible. But I've also been having the wildest, weirdest dreams, involving the most random people doing the most bizarre things. Most of the time, I can't remember anything except that it was weird.
Cravings: Apples still. And beef. I've been wanting steak and burgers and fajitas and spaghetti with ground beef. I'm normally a beef-eater, but it just went up a notch this last week. And thankfully, I've had just about every one of those things. (Not the healthiest pregnancy week ever, but give me some grace...it was Spring Break, after all!)
What I'm Missing: Not a whole lot.
Symptoms: I've hit that point (already!?!?) where I'm out of breath pretty easily. Picking stuff up off the floor and getting dressed are kind like chores.
Best Moment This Week: Getting to spend some good, quality time with family this last week during Spring Break was a highlight.
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| Painting pottery with Grandmommy and Tia. He chose a worm. Not sure why. |
Worst Moment This Week: Oh, probably that one time when I totally lost it on Josiah. It's certainly not a moment I'm proud of, but let's just say...I normally give him spankings when he deserves it and after I explain why he's getting one in a very calm and collected manner. This time wasn't the case. He totally deserved it. Make no mistake about that. He was being blatantly disobedient. But I lost it on him and was yelling. Not cute. I definitely had to apologize for it later. (**Not the spanking. He deserved the spanking. I do not apologize ever for disciplining my child and expecting obedience from him. He is perfectly capable of being obedient and understands completely when he's been disobedient. But I did apologize for yelling at him. He did not...and never does...deserve that.)
Looking Forward To: The appointment I have on Thursday...always fun to be hear baby's heartbeat and be reassured everything is still cooking properly. And also setting the date for the BIG appointment!
Daddy's Involvement: He's been his normal patient, thoughtful, caring, serving self. And maybe giving in a little too much to my wild cravings. (Matt, if you're reading this, I don't mean it. Please don't stop giving in.)
Big Brother's Involvement:Well, this happened. And to my knowledge, it was totally unprompted. Pops (Matt's dad) might have suggested it or had something to do with it, but as far as I know, Josiah just walked up to me and told me he had a baby in his belly too. And I died. It really does show me that he has so much more understanding of the whole situation than I thought he was. If only he'd understand that it hurts when he (innocently) kicks my tummy.
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| Can't wait til my shirts all look stretched out like that. ;) |
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Currently... Spring Break Edition
Well, looky here! I do have other things to write about other than the details of this pregnancy. I also have a bit of extra time I don't usually have to express myself here. So, here's a fun, little format to narrow down some of my current thoughts.
I am Currently:
1. Thinking...about nothing in particular, honestly, except how grateful I am. Grateful that the sun has been shining the last few days with that still loveable chill in the air. Grateful that we get to have such great quality time with family and that they live close enough to see often (the grandparents, anyway. All our brothers and sisters live too far away. Boo.). Grateful to have the chance to just sit and do nothing, go nowhere and see nobody for a couple days. I'm totally a city girl through and through, but my heart just yearns for the quiet, slow pace of the country ever-so-often. Grateful that we had such wonderful people spend part of their Spring Break to come and work on our home to make it a little more liveable. Grateful to work with such wonderful people who gave up part of their Spring Break to serve and love people who don't always get to experience the love of God. Grateful for my sweet boy who challenges me to sharpen my imagination. Grateful for my husband who is attentive and caring of my needs.wants/desires. Grateful to know and love and serve a God who makes me lie down in green pastures and leads me beside quiet waters and refreshes my soul. Grateful.
2. Enjoying...just sitting around, doing nothing and taking three different naps today. I have no shame about it either. Not only is it my first real full day of "Spring Break," but I'm also pregnant and have been needing that extra rest. Sometimes you just need a brief change of pace and break in the routine.
3. Feeling...perfectly full from dinner. We've had a few BIG dinner nights this last week and I've definitely regretted it. Tonight was a good eating night.
4. Wearing...old yoga pants, a tshirt and my hair in a bun. Classic "no shower, no go anywhere" outfit.
5. Needing...to take a shower. And brush my teeth. Judge me all you want, but it's my Spring Break. And if I want to let my personal hygiene go a little, then you should just be glad you don't have to see me this way. ;)
6. Wanting...nothing at the moment, really. Kinda feels nice to be wanting nothing when it seems to always feel like I have a VERY long list of "wants." "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
7. Listening...to the background noise of a college basketball game. This is historically a very integral part of every Spring Break. I mean...March Madness...in a house full of basketball players and a coach. Nothing else on the tv the whole time. I may pay occasional attention, but not really.
8. Making...an effort to write about something other than this wonderful pregnancy. It IS quite a big deal to me and totally does consume much of my life, as is appropriate for a something so dependent to do. But I have SO MUCH else going on in my mind and heart all the time. Right now, I have nothing else going on besides sitting and enjoying the chance to rest and relax. So...that's what I'm writing about.
9. Eating...(just finished) a warm brownie with some Bluebell Homemade Vanilla. It's moments like these that I'm even more grateful that I live in the south.
10. Drinking...not enough water. Trying. And I usually love water and only drink it (and coffee, of course), but I've really been struggling to get enough lately.
What are you currently doing?
I am Currently:
1. Thinking...about nothing in particular, honestly, except how grateful I am. Grateful that the sun has been shining the last few days with that still loveable chill in the air. Grateful that we get to have such great quality time with family and that they live close enough to see often (the grandparents, anyway. All our brothers and sisters live too far away. Boo.). Grateful to have the chance to just sit and do nothing, go nowhere and see nobody for a couple days. I'm totally a city girl through and through, but my heart just yearns for the quiet, slow pace of the country ever-so-often. Grateful that we had such wonderful people spend part of their Spring Break to come and work on our home to make it a little more liveable. Grateful to work with such wonderful people who gave up part of their Spring Break to serve and love people who don't always get to experience the love of God. Grateful for my sweet boy who challenges me to sharpen my imagination. Grateful for my husband who is attentive and caring of my needs.wants/desires. Grateful to know and love and serve a God who makes me lie down in green pastures and leads me beside quiet waters and refreshes my soul. Grateful.
2. Enjoying...just sitting around, doing nothing and taking three different naps today. I have no shame about it either. Not only is it my first real full day of "Spring Break," but I'm also pregnant and have been needing that extra rest. Sometimes you just need a brief change of pace and break in the routine.
3. Feeling...perfectly full from dinner. We've had a few BIG dinner nights this last week and I've definitely regretted it. Tonight was a good eating night.
4. Wearing...old yoga pants, a tshirt and my hair in a bun. Classic "no shower, no go anywhere" outfit.
5. Needing...to take a shower. And brush my teeth. Judge me all you want, but it's my Spring Break. And if I want to let my personal hygiene go a little, then you should just be glad you don't have to see me this way. ;)
6. Wanting...nothing at the moment, really. Kinda feels nice to be wanting nothing when it seems to always feel like I have a VERY long list of "wants." "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
7. Listening...to the background noise of a college basketball game. This is historically a very integral part of every Spring Break. I mean...March Madness...in a house full of basketball players and a coach. Nothing else on the tv the whole time. I may pay occasional attention, but not really.
8. Making...an effort to write about something other than this wonderful pregnancy. It IS quite a big deal to me and totally does consume much of my life, as is appropriate for a something so dependent to do. But I have SO MUCH else going on in my mind and heart all the time. Right now, I have nothing else going on besides sitting and enjoying the chance to rest and relax. So...that's what I'm writing about.
9. Eating...(just finished) a warm brownie with some Bluebell Homemade Vanilla. It's moments like these that I'm even more grateful that I live in the south.
10. Drinking...not enough water. Trying. And I usually love water and only drink it (and coffee, of course), but I've really been struggling to get enough lately.
What are you currently doing?
Thirteen
*Original Post: 03-04-14*
Wow! I feel like I was JUST writing about weeks 11 and 12. That week went fast. But it sure didn't seem like it. The days are long, my friends, and the weeks are speedy.
How Far Along: 13 weeks...creeping into that Second Trimester, baby!
Size of Baby: the length of a pea pod
Gender: I don't know. I'm so confused and growing more impatient by the day.
Movement: Probably not.
Maternity Clothes: Remember that ugly rant I went on last week about Penney's ruing my life and removing all their maternity from their stores? My poor husband had to hear about it a little too much, so he decided to "buy" some of my store credit and gave me some cold, hard cash to go get some clothes wherever I wanted. That man. Although, I'm still not sure if his motive was because he's loving and thoughtful and fill of generosity or if he was just trying to shut me up. Probably a little of both. So...yes! I finally have a few pieces that I'm super happy with (jeans, a couple of t-shirts, a nicer top, shorts...if it ever warms up out there, and a great maxi skirt). So much better!
Mood: Still a little on the cranky side. And exhausted. And it's been a pretty tough week, emotionally. More on that below.
Sleep: Eh. I get what seems to be plenty of hours, it's just not always deeply restful.
Cravings: Nothing healthy but the occasional apple. And a rare salad. Pizza was a pretty strong one this week. And those tasty, addictive Cadbury Mini-eggs. I actually had an emotional moment the other day in Walmart because it looked like they had already been completely bought out. Josiah was concerned for me. Luckily, I found some of the tiny (not enough, but probably better for me to have some portion control) bags of them at the front of the store. I grabbed a handful.
Aversions: Nothing majorly notable. Still hate all the things I normally hate.
What I'm Missing: Same as last week; energy and a good attitude.
Symptoms: Headaches have been much better for the most part. I'm still a blubbering idiot all the time. I've had a few good reasons to be emotional lately, but I still can be found crying for no reason at all. So much fun for a non-crier.
Best Moment This Week: Making it to the 2nd trimester. Always an accomplishment. Also, this past week was pretty sweet. Yes, I've been extra cranky and exhausted, but my girls took it upon themselves to declare a week of blessing me. Each one took a different day and brought me flowers or a treat or bought my lunch. So sweet and so thoughtful! I love my job! And then to top it off, I woke up Friday morning and Matt had arranged for a handful of girls to come clean my house (!!!) (we were hosting a bunch of students from another campus over the weekend) and watch Josiah while I went and got a pedicure. By myself. It.was.wonderful.
Worst Hardest Moment This Week: Saying goodbye to some of the dearest people in my life. Matt's youngest brother and his family left for the Middle East on Sunday and I surprised myself (for the last several months...even before the influx of pregnancy hormones) at how emotional I was about it all. Kimberly has become such a dear friend and sister to me over the last 4.5 years and it's not easy to think of all the space and time between us and the memories we could have hanging out with family. I held it together fairly well at the airport as we saw then off, but before and after were such a different story. I weirdly woke up Monday morning and felt like we had been to a funeral. HA! We're so grateful that they're there and safe and starting to get settled in to their new normal, but we miss them so much already. Thank you, Jesus, for modern technology in the form of texts and social media.
Looking Forward To: SPRING BREAK! We'll get to have a few days "off" at the end of the week and I'm desperately looking forward to being with both families for a bit of time. Matt's parents live out in the country where there's nothing to do, nowhere to go and nobody to see. Sounds like my idea of a break.
Daddy's Involvement: Apparently, I never finished this part of the update last week. I'm sure he's been a rock star of a husband and daddy. I mean, did you read about the part where he let me buy some clothes and get a pedicure by myself? Mr. Wonderful.
Big Brother's Involvement:Ummm...I'm sure he was a great big brother last week. He probably was really cute and said and did cute things...constantly. I actually really need to do a full update post on him. I'm trying to hold out until his 3rd birthday (!!!!!!!) to do that though.
Wow! I feel like I was JUST writing about weeks 11 and 12. That week went fast. But it sure didn't seem like it. The days are long, my friends, and the weeks are speedy.
How Far Along: 13 weeks...creeping into that Second Trimester, baby!
Size of Baby: the length of a pea pod
Gender: I don't know. I'm so confused and growing more impatient by the day.
Movement: Probably not.
Maternity Clothes: Remember that ugly rant I went on last week about Penney's ruing my life and removing all their maternity from their stores? My poor husband had to hear about it a little too much, so he decided to "buy" some of my store credit and gave me some cold, hard cash to go get some clothes wherever I wanted. That man. Although, I'm still not sure if his motive was because he's loving and thoughtful and fill of generosity or if he was just trying to shut me up. Probably a little of both. So...yes! I finally have a few pieces that I'm super happy with (jeans, a couple of t-shirts, a nicer top, shorts...if it ever warms up out there, and a great maxi skirt). So much better!
Mood: Still a little on the cranky side. And exhausted. And it's been a pretty tough week, emotionally. More on that below.
Sleep: Eh. I get what seems to be plenty of hours, it's just not always deeply restful.
Cravings: Nothing healthy but the occasional apple. And a rare salad. Pizza was a pretty strong one this week. And those tasty, addictive Cadbury Mini-eggs. I actually had an emotional moment the other day in Walmart because it looked like they had already been completely bought out. Josiah was concerned for me. Luckily, I found some of the tiny (not enough, but probably better for me to have some portion control) bags of them at the front of the store. I grabbed a handful.
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| I totally identify with this. |
Aversions: Nothing majorly notable. Still hate all the things I normally hate.
What I'm Missing: Same as last week; energy and a good attitude.
Symptoms: Headaches have been much better for the most part. I'm still a blubbering idiot all the time. I've had a few good reasons to be emotional lately, but I still can be found crying for no reason at all. So much fun for a non-crier.
Best Moment This Week: Making it to the 2nd trimester. Always an accomplishment. Also, this past week was pretty sweet. Yes, I've been extra cranky and exhausted, but my girls took it upon themselves to declare a week of blessing me. Each one took a different day and brought me flowers or a treat or bought my lunch. So sweet and so thoughtful! I love my job! And then to top it off, I woke up Friday morning and Matt had arranged for a handful of girls to come clean my house (!!!) (we were hosting a bunch of students from another campus over the weekend) and watch Josiah while I went and got a pedicure. By myself. It.was.wonderful.
Looking Forward To: SPRING BREAK! We'll get to have a few days "off" at the end of the week and I'm desperately looking forward to being with both families for a bit of time. Matt's parents live out in the country where there's nothing to do, nowhere to go and nobody to see. Sounds like my idea of a break.
Daddy's Involvement: Apparently, I never finished this part of the update last week. I'm sure he's been a rock star of a husband and daddy. I mean, did you read about the part where he let me buy some clothes and get a pedicure by myself? Mr. Wonderful.
Big Brother's Involvement:Ummm...I'm sure he was a great big brother last week. He probably was really cute and said and did cute things...constantly. I actually really need to do a full update post on him. I'm trying to hold out until his 3rd birthday (!!!!!!!) to do that though.
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| I think this pretty well sums up both Daddy's involvement and Big Brother's. Sweetest guys ever. |
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
11 and 12 weeks
*Original Post Date: 02.25.14*
How Far Along: 12 weeks today (02-25-14)
Size of Baby: 11 weeks, a green olive...12 weeks, a lime
Gender: Still a couple months away from knowing. Seems like most people say girl.
Movement: maybe? I think I'm making it up though. SO anxious to get to that part!
Maternity Clothes: I have a bone to pick with Penney's. And since I'm positive they read this blog faithfully, I'm just gonna let 'em have it right here and now! I have quite a bit of money in gift cards/store credit to Penney's left over from Christmas that I still haven't used because I had that strong feeling I might be needing some maternity clothes in the near future. I'm honestly not a huge fan of Penney's, but I did get a bunch of maternity clothes from them three+ years ago that suited my needs well beyond the 4th trimester. There isn't a Penney's anywhere near us, but I finally got a smidgen of time yesterday before picking Josiah up from school to hop into the one near his school. I'm desperate for some better jeans...have been for weeks! And a few new tops would be fun to have too, right? So, after walking my butt all over that store trying to find the maternity section, I finally asked someone and she told me they didn't have one. Disappointment. I came home, got my "Googliator"out (that's for you, Nicole!) and eventually discovered that no JCPenney's within a 50 mile radius has a maternity section in the store. The only way for me to buy maternity clothes from them is to order from their insanely slim (and ugly) pickings online. Are you kidding?!?! What makes one think it's okay to expect a pregnant woman to just blindly order something online that she's supposed to feel beautiful in for the next9+ months year of her life??? And what if said woman doesn't have the time or energy to travel all over the great metropolis of Houston to find a store that will accept the return when it's sure to look awful? So, now I'm left with a ton of money to Penney's and nothing I want there and a great need for clothes that fit and no money to speak of to get any. Bummer.
Clearly, I'm not excited about this situation. And I apologize for my lack of peppy, positive, silver-lining attitude in the matter. It's a bit frustrating. Maybe I'll get over it. Someday. When I get some pants that fit and don't cost the equivalent of fancy new stroller.
Mood: Did you read that whole last paragraph/novel? I've been cranky. And I haven't been great at hiding it or taming it. Not sure if I can totally blame this on the baby or if it's really due to some less-than-ideal circumstances in life right now that I haven't effectively taken to the Lord. Maybe a combination of both.
Sleep: Could be better. Could be worse. Only getting up once to potty. But I've been waking up feeling less than rested every morning. That might also be adding to some of that grumpiness I've been wearing.
Cravings: Fruit snacks! Sweets!
Aversions: Corn. And pretty much anything made with corn. Kinda weird.
What I'm Missing: Pants that fit. And energy. And a kind, sweet attitude.
Symptoms: Tears seem to be my main sign of being pregnant lately. I'm not a crier, so that's pretty weird for me. Also, crazy hip pain and ridiculously, intense headaches. The hip pain will move from one hip to the other every day and either be inside pain or outside. Never had this with Josiah and definitely thought it wasn't really common until later in the game, but I've been proven wrong. Some of my girls say my hips must be "splitting." Ouch!
Best Moment This Week: Week 11 was getting to enjoy acting pregnant in public and not worry about who sees or knows prematurely. Week 12 was getting to see that little nugget on the screen at my appointment. It was a bonus, due to that painfully scary moment when the doctor couldn't find the heartbeat. It's only a few moments, but SO MANY tragic thoughts can pour in in such a small amount of time. She reassured me that it was because I was still pretty early on and she didn't know where exactly the baby was located. So as a consolation for my 15 seconds in fear, I got to see my sweet babe jumping all over the place in my womb. Let's just say...I've been inspired to cut back a little on my caffeine intake. But not really.
Looking Forward To: The end of this "beloved" first trimester and getting back some energy I so desperately need.
Daddy's Involvement: Remember when I mentioned that I've been a bit of a pill the last couple weeks? Yeah...guess who's had to take the brunt of it. He's been pretty good at diffusing the situation and just laughing at me. It's risky, cuz sometimes he gets hit and sometimes I just have to laugh too.
Big Brother's Involvement:Pretty minimal. But ever-so-often, he'll randomly mention the baby in Mommy's tummy. And when prompted, he'll say hi to it. But that's about it. And I have a feeling that it'll stay similar to that until we have a gender, a name and more information.
How Far Along: 12 weeks today (02-25-14)
Size of Baby: 11 weeks, a green olive...12 weeks, a lime
Gender: Still a couple months away from knowing. Seems like most people say girl.
Movement: maybe? I think I'm making it up though. SO anxious to get to that part!
Maternity Clothes: I have a bone to pick with Penney's. And since I'm positive they read this blog faithfully, I'm just gonna let 'em have it right here and now! I have quite a bit of money in gift cards/store credit to Penney's left over from Christmas that I still haven't used because I had that strong feeling I might be needing some maternity clothes in the near future. I'm honestly not a huge fan of Penney's, but I did get a bunch of maternity clothes from them three+ years ago that suited my needs well beyond the 4th trimester. There isn't a Penney's anywhere near us, but I finally got a smidgen of time yesterday before picking Josiah up from school to hop into the one near his school. I'm desperate for some better jeans...have been for weeks! And a few new tops would be fun to have too, right? So, after walking my butt all over that store trying to find the maternity section, I finally asked someone and she told me they didn't have one. Disappointment. I came home, got my "Googliator"out (that's for you, Nicole!) and eventually discovered that no JCPenney's within a 50 mile radius has a maternity section in the store. The only way for me to buy maternity clothes from them is to order from their insanely slim (and ugly) pickings online. Are you kidding?!?! What makes one think it's okay to expect a pregnant woman to just blindly order something online that she's supposed to feel beautiful in for the next
Clearly, I'm not excited about this situation. And I apologize for my lack of peppy, positive, silver-lining attitude in the matter. It's a bit frustrating. Maybe I'll get over it. Someday. When I get some pants that fit and don't cost the equivalent of fancy new stroller.
Mood: Did you read that whole last paragraph/novel? I've been cranky. And I haven't been great at hiding it or taming it. Not sure if I can totally blame this on the baby or if it's really due to some less-than-ideal circumstances in life right now that I haven't effectively taken to the Lord. Maybe a combination of both.
Sleep: Could be better. Could be worse. Only getting up once to potty. But I've been waking up feeling less than rested every morning. That might also be adding to some of that grumpiness I've been wearing.
Cravings: Fruit snacks! Sweets!
Aversions: Corn. And pretty much anything made with corn. Kinda weird.
What I'm Missing: Pants that fit. And energy. And a kind, sweet attitude.
Symptoms: Tears seem to be my main sign of being pregnant lately. I'm not a crier, so that's pretty weird for me. Also, crazy hip pain and ridiculously, intense headaches. The hip pain will move from one hip to the other every day and either be inside pain or outside. Never had this with Josiah and definitely thought it wasn't really common until later in the game, but I've been proven wrong. Some of my girls say my hips must be "splitting." Ouch!
Best Moment This Week: Week 11 was getting to enjoy acting pregnant in public and not worry about who sees or knows prematurely. Week 12 was getting to see that little nugget on the screen at my appointment. It was a bonus, due to that painfully scary moment when the doctor couldn't find the heartbeat. It's only a few moments, but SO MANY tragic thoughts can pour in in such a small amount of time. She reassured me that it was because I was still pretty early on and she didn't know where exactly the baby was located. So as a consolation for my 15 seconds in fear, I got to see my sweet babe jumping all over the place in my womb. Let's just say...I've been inspired to cut back a little on my caffeine intake. But not really.
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| This is the pic I texted to those who were a little too distant to break the news in person. |
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| And this is how we made the news public to the world-wide interwebs. It was Valentine's Day and I had the caption, "My funniest Valentine and my littlest Valentine." Love this guy's new "cheese" face. |
Looking Forward To: The end of this "beloved" first trimester and getting back some energy I so desperately need.
Daddy's Involvement: Remember when I mentioned that I've been a bit of a pill the last couple weeks? Yeah...guess who's had to take the brunt of it. He's been pretty good at diffusing the situation and just laughing at me. It's risky, cuz sometimes he gets hit and sometimes I just have to laugh too.
Big Brother's Involvement:Pretty minimal. But ever-so-often, he'll randomly mention the baby in Mommy's tummy. And when prompted, he'll say hi to it. But that's about it. And I have a feeling that it'll stay similar to that until we have a gender, a name and more information.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
9 and 10 Weeks
*Original Post Date: 02-10-14*
If the post title tells ya anything about last week...it should be how insanely busy it was. Or maybe just how incredibly tired/lazy I was.
How Far Along: 9 weeks on the 4th and 10 weeks on the 11th (tomorrow)
Size of Baby: grape/kumquat
Gender: My "hunch" is starting to get stronger and stronger. And for the record...I have been right about every single gender prediction that I can think of for the last several years. There's only one time I can remember that I was wrong and it turned out the doctor was wrong! (My niece, Hannah, was Caleb for about a month, but I knew she was a girl.) Even Josiah has said "her" a couple times in reference to the baby.
Movement: OOH! I can't wait!
Maternity Clothes: I just need some pants, for crying out loud. Anybody out there have an extra hour or two lying around they aren't using? That's all that's standing in my way to getting some pants that don't make me wanna lose my salvation.
Sleep: It might be better if I had a toddler who got the concept of spending the entire night in his own bed. He usually finds his way into our room about an hour or two before wake-up and I just don't have enough cares at that point to drag him back to his own bed. Plus, the sweet cuddles will be gone all too soon.
Cravings: Apples. Cold, sweet, juicy apples. Ice. PICKLES!
Aversions: Still nothing major, but anytime I even slightly overeat anything, it's over for me. Had an experience with some Lay's Wavy Potato Chips and some French Onion Dip that made me sing and then made me sad. :(
Symptoms: Still got the burps. And some nausea. And weird dreams.
Best Moment: Getting to finally share the news with our nearest and dearest! The videos are of us telling our parents. We had to do it separately this time and none of the aunt and uncles (our siblings) were present except my older sister. Which, was really sweet because she leaves for her home in France later this week. I was glad she was there to celebrate with us.I just sent the videos to the other family members not present and the responses were sweet and fun and just as exiting as the first time.
We have also enjoyed slowly being able to tell a few other close people.
*A few notes on the videos:
1. My parents are the first video, Matt's parents are the second. There is a bit of a difference in the responses between the two families and I just want to comment on it. First of all, we were in the comfort and privacy of my parents' house when we told them. Josiah was, as usual, full of energy and the shirt was clearly visible. Also, he is the only other kid in that family, so far. The last pregnancy announcement in my side of the family was about 3.5 years ago. When we were with Matt's parents, we were in a semi-crowded restaurant, Josiah had JUST been woken up (against his will) from an all-too-short nap and he had a jacket on, making it quite difficult to read the shirt from their vantage point. Also, we had two new, very precious babies added to this family in the last year. Not to say that Matt's parents are completely thrilled with the new babe...they truly are. It just doesn't show much in the video for these reasons. Moving on...
Worst Moment: That one day I woke up and had a hangover. Except...I don't drink. So, the only explanation I can come up with is that I somehow sleep-walked out the house and ended up out on the middle of I-45 in the dark hours of the night and every trucker headed North ran me over. It was bad, y'all.
Looking Forward To: Making the social media announcement later this week. (I think my mom's more anxious for that than I am.)
And...I know you're gonna laugh...or at least roll your eyes. But I started daydreaming and now I'm really looking forward to Halloween. I know, I know. It's not even Valentine's Day yet. BUT...we'll be a family of four by then and the possibilities are endless. I dig a good, creative group costume.
Baby Daddy: He's so good about listening (and sometimes responding) to my non-stop babble about the new baby gear I want to get this time around and what I want the nursery to look like and what we should dress up as for Halloween. And my random comments about our name choices.
Big Brother: This kid is the sweetest thing. And I think it's beginning to click a little more with him. One day, earlier this week, he was sitting on my lap (what's left of it...already), but moving around on top of my belly. I told him he needed to be careful because the baby was in Mommy's belly and we didn't want to hurt the baby. (Honestly, that babe can't feel a darned thing at this point, but he was all knees and elbows in my stomach and it hurt.) This is the conversation after I told him to be careful:
J: "Oh, Mommy! I'm sorry! I don't want to hurt the baby."
Me: "Did you know the baby can hear you talking? Do you want to say hi to the baby?"
J: "Oh, yeah! Hi, Little Baby! It's so nice to see you."
And earlier today he was declaring his love for me (seriously...loving this sweet, heart-melting stage) and he said, "Mommy, I love you. And I love our baby." I teared up. Which, of course, confused him and he thought he did something wrong. I just keep praying that this budding love and affection he has for his little sibling, brother or sister, would never wane, but just continue to grow stronger.
If the post title tells ya anything about last week...it should be how insanely busy it was. Or maybe just how incredibly tired/lazy I was.
How Far Along: 9 weeks on the 4th and 10 weeks on the 11th (tomorrow)
Size of Baby: grape/kumquat
Gender: My "hunch" is starting to get stronger and stronger. And for the record...I have been right about every single gender prediction that I can think of for the last several years. There's only one time I can remember that I was wrong and it turned out the doctor was wrong! (My niece, Hannah, was Caleb for about a month, but I knew she was a girl.) Even Josiah has said "her" a couple times in reference to the baby.
Movement: OOH! I can't wait!
Maternity Clothes: I just need some pants, for crying out loud. Anybody out there have an extra hour or two lying around they aren't using? That's all that's standing in my way to getting some pants that don't make me wanna lose my salvation.
Sleep: It might be better if I had a toddler who got the concept of spending the entire night in his own bed. He usually finds his way into our room about an hour or two before wake-up and I just don't have enough cares at that point to drag him back to his own bed. Plus, the sweet cuddles will be gone all too soon.
Cravings: Apples. Cold, sweet, juicy apples. Ice. PICKLES!
Aversions: Still nothing major, but anytime I even slightly overeat anything, it's over for me. Had an experience with some Lay's Wavy Potato Chips and some French Onion Dip that made me sing and then made me sad. :(
Symptoms: Still got the burps. And some nausea. And weird dreams.
Best Moment: Getting to finally share the news with our nearest and dearest! The videos are of us telling our parents. We had to do it separately this time and none of the aunt and uncles (our siblings) were present except my older sister. Which, was really sweet because she leaves for her home in France later this week. I was glad she was there to celebrate with us.I just sent the videos to the other family members not present and the responses were sweet and fun and just as exiting as the first time.
We have also enjoyed slowly being able to tell a few other close people.
*A few notes on the videos:
1. My parents are the first video, Matt's parents are the second. There is a bit of a difference in the responses between the two families and I just want to comment on it. First of all, we were in the comfort and privacy of my parents' house when we told them. Josiah was, as usual, full of energy and the shirt was clearly visible. Also, he is the only other kid in that family, so far. The last pregnancy announcement in my side of the family was about 3.5 years ago. When we were with Matt's parents, we were in a semi-crowded restaurant, Josiah had JUST been woken up (against his will) from an all-too-short nap and he had a jacket on, making it quite difficult to read the shirt from their vantage point. Also, we had two new, very precious babies added to this family in the last year. Not to say that Matt's parents are completely thrilled with the new babe...they truly are. It just doesn't show much in the video for these reasons. Moving on...
Worst Moment: That one day I woke up and had a hangover. Except...I don't drink. So, the only explanation I can come up with is that I somehow sleep-walked out the house and ended up out on the middle of I-45 in the dark hours of the night and every trucker headed North ran me over. It was bad, y'all.
Looking Forward To: Making the social media announcement later this week. (I think my mom's more anxious for that than I am.)
And...I know you're gonna laugh...or at least roll your eyes. But I started daydreaming and now I'm really looking forward to Halloween. I know, I know. It's not even Valentine's Day yet. BUT...we'll be a family of four by then and the possibilities are endless. I dig a good, creative group costume.
Baby Daddy: He's so good about listening (and sometimes responding) to my non-stop babble about the new baby gear I want to get this time around and what I want the nursery to look like and what we should dress up as for Halloween. And my random comments about our name choices.
Big Brother: This kid is the sweetest thing. And I think it's beginning to click a little more with him. One day, earlier this week, he was sitting on my lap (what's left of it...already), but moving around on top of my belly. I told him he needed to be careful because the baby was in Mommy's belly and we didn't want to hurt the baby. (Honestly, that babe can't feel a darned thing at this point, but he was all knees and elbows in my stomach and it hurt.) This is the conversation after I told him to be careful:
J: "Oh, Mommy! I'm sorry! I don't want to hurt the baby."
Me: "Did you know the baby can hear you talking? Do you want to say hi to the baby?"
J: "Oh, yeah! Hi, Little Baby! It's so nice to see you."
And earlier today he was declaring his love for me (seriously...loving this sweet, heart-melting stage) and he said, "Mommy, I love you. And I love our baby." I teared up. Which, of course, confused him and he thought he did something wrong. I just keep praying that this budding love and affection he has for his little sibling, brother or sister, would never wane, but just continue to grow stronger.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Seven Weeks
Original Date: 01-24-14, Friday
Because I haven't gone to the doctor yet, I'm still assuming my week change happens on Fridays. Not sure the doctor will say anything different, but I'm sure she'll be able to measure a little more scientifically.
Anyway, like I said before, I really want to be better (not legalistic) about documenting more of this pregnancy. I keep saying to Matt (and myself) that I just don't remember feeling like this the last time. Partly, I didn't even know I was pregnant until 8 or 9 weeks, but I really think things are just heating up a LOT sooner than with Josiah.
How Far Along: 7 weeks
Size of Baby: a blueberry
Gender: Not a clue! The only feeling I have is that it could be a girl, but that's only because it seems like this pregnancy is already VERY different from the last. I know that means nothing. But I can also already tell I'm carrying higher than with Josiah.
Movement: Nope. Although, (and I'm gonna be a little too honest here) sometimes I feel a little gassy and I'll joke with Matt that maybe I'm really more like 6 months pregnant and just didn't know it. He doesn't think that's funny.
Maternity Clothes: Did I ever really stop wearing maternity clothes from the last time??? Haha! I'm kidding...kind of. But in the interest in semi-full-disclosure, I never really got past my pre-baby size from last time and have just been shopping for flow-y tops and stretchy jeans ever since. Turns out, these come in really handy when you're trying to hide an unannounced pregnancy and your belly is already popping and you can't just suck it in anymore. Which is exactly where I'm at. Not gonna be able hide this thing for long.
Sleep: It was fine up until last night. It might have been the unfortunate food choices I made a little too late last night, but I woke up in the wee hours of the morning and rushed to the bathroom. I have this problem with never letting myself vomit. I just can't. I heaved a few times, but was able to hold it back. I just hung out by the potty (fun times) for about 10 minutes and then ended up falling asleep on the couch. I'm hoping this is not a new normal.
Cravings: FOOD. SO HUNGRY. allthetime. I haven't had any cravings for anything in particular yet, but certain foods just make me wanna sing. Pickles, mushrooms, garlic-y anything. I had THE most delicious pear a couple mornings ago and just polished off the single best bowl of LaMadeline's Tomato Basil soup I have ever had in my life. *Courtesy of my darling husband who thoughtfully brought some home for me.
Aversions: Not a whole lot yet. I'm still waiting on that coffee aversion, secretly hoping it never comes. How will I survive?
What I'm Missing: Ya know. This poor second kid. Last time, I was the model pregnant woman. No coffee, no sandwich meat, only healthy foods, etc. This time...I have a toddler and am just trying to survive. I tried to make myself go decaf the day after we found out, but...let's just say...I've had a very small cup of regular coffee every morning since then. So, really...the only thing I'm missing is being able to eat a bite of anything at all and not burping for the next three hours.
Symptoms: The worst upper-body gas of my life. Seriously. I take two bites of something and less than five minutes later, I'm ugly-belching for the next three hours. So attractive. (I actually had to tell someone the other day that I think I have some digestion issue or that I'm developing acid reflux. We were trying to have a semi-serious conversation and I kept "man-burping" in her face. Can't wait to tell her the truth.) Constant nausea, sometimes more intense, but always present. But like I said before, I refuse to barf. So...there. Super sore boobs. SO TIRED. And my eyes have been hurting. Don't remember that ever being listed as a pregnancy symptom. Hmmm.
Best Moment This Week: Making it a full week without telling anyone! Also, being in a restaurant with no one we knew and I totally didn't even try to hide my already visible bump. I may have even rubbed it a little just in case people were watching me and assuming I had just eaten too much.
Looking Forward To: Going to the first doctor's appointment next week. SO MANY QUESTIONS. Also, I think we'll feel more free to start letting people know once we go. I've said it before and I'll say it again...Not sure how much longer I can keep this thing hidden.
Daddy's Involvement: He's been so sweet and accommodating already. Letting me rest in the afternoons when I'm exhausted and Josiah is high-energy. Letting me drink coffee and not putting me on lock-down like last time. And enduring my neurotic whining about what-ifs and not feeling well and wanting to tell everyone. And talking to me about names. And cooking/bringing me yummy foods to eat. He's the best.
Big Brother's Involvement:We're smart enough to not tell him yet. We've asked our normal questions like we usually do; "Do you want a brother or a sister?" The answer varies. But we're anxious to tell him.
Because I haven't gone to the doctor yet, I'm still assuming my week change happens on Fridays. Not sure the doctor will say anything different, but I'm sure she'll be able to measure a little more scientifically.
Anyway, like I said before, I really want to be better (not legalistic) about documenting more of this pregnancy. I keep saying to Matt (and myself) that I just don't remember feeling like this the last time. Partly, I didn't even know I was pregnant until 8 or 9 weeks, but I really think things are just heating up a LOT sooner than with Josiah.
How Far Along: 7 weeks
Size of Baby: a blueberry
Gender: Not a clue! The only feeling I have is that it could be a girl, but that's only because it seems like this pregnancy is already VERY different from the last. I know that means nothing. But I can also already tell I'm carrying higher than with Josiah.
Movement: Nope. Although, (and I'm gonna be a little too honest here) sometimes I feel a little gassy and I'll joke with Matt that maybe I'm really more like 6 months pregnant and just didn't know it. He doesn't think that's funny.
Maternity Clothes: Did I ever really stop wearing maternity clothes from the last time??? Haha! I'm kidding...kind of. But in the interest in semi-full-disclosure, I never really got past my pre-baby size from last time and have just been shopping for flow-y tops and stretchy jeans ever since. Turns out, these come in really handy when you're trying to hide an unannounced pregnancy and your belly is already popping and you can't just suck it in anymore. Which is exactly where I'm at. Not gonna be able hide this thing for long.
Sleep: It was fine up until last night. It might have been the unfortunate food choices I made a little too late last night, but I woke up in the wee hours of the morning and rushed to the bathroom. I have this problem with never letting myself vomit. I just can't. I heaved a few times, but was able to hold it back. I just hung out by the potty (fun times) for about 10 minutes and then ended up falling asleep on the couch. I'm hoping this is not a new normal.
Cravings: FOOD. SO HUNGRY. allthetime. I haven't had any cravings for anything in particular yet, but certain foods just make me wanna sing. Pickles, mushrooms, garlic-y anything. I had THE most delicious pear a couple mornings ago and just polished off the single best bowl of LaMadeline's Tomato Basil soup I have ever had in my life. *Courtesy of my darling husband who thoughtfully brought some home for me.
Aversions: Not a whole lot yet. I'm still waiting on that coffee aversion, secretly hoping it never comes. How will I survive?
What I'm Missing: Ya know. This poor second kid. Last time, I was the model pregnant woman. No coffee, no sandwich meat, only healthy foods, etc. This time...I have a toddler and am just trying to survive. I tried to make myself go decaf the day after we found out, but...let's just say...I've had a very small cup of regular coffee every morning since then. So, really...the only thing I'm missing is being able to eat a bite of anything at all and not burping for the next three hours.
Symptoms: The worst upper-body gas of my life. Seriously. I take two bites of something and less than five minutes later, I'm ugly-belching for the next three hours. So attractive. (I actually had to tell someone the other day that I think I have some digestion issue or that I'm developing acid reflux. We were trying to have a semi-serious conversation and I kept "man-burping" in her face. Can't wait to tell her the truth.) Constant nausea, sometimes more intense, but always present. But like I said before, I refuse to barf. So...there. Super sore boobs. SO TIRED. And my eyes have been hurting. Don't remember that ever being listed as a pregnancy symptom. Hmmm.
Best Moment This Week: Making it a full week without telling anyone! Also, being in a restaurant with no one we knew and I totally didn't even try to hide my already visible bump. I may have even rubbed it a little just in case people were watching me and assuming I had just eaten too much.
Looking Forward To: Going to the first doctor's appointment next week. SO MANY QUESTIONS. Also, I think we'll feel more free to start letting people know once we go. I've said it before and I'll say it again...Not sure how much longer I can keep this thing hidden.
Daddy's Involvement: He's been so sweet and accommodating already. Letting me rest in the afternoons when I'm exhausted and Josiah is high-energy. Letting me drink coffee and not putting me on lock-down like last time. And enduring my neurotic whining about what-ifs and not feeling well and wanting to tell everyone. And talking to me about names. And cooking/bringing me yummy foods to eat. He's the best.
Big Brother's Involvement:We're smart enough to not tell him yet. We've asked our normal questions like we usually do; "Do you want a brother or a sister?" The answer varies. But we're anxious to tell him.
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