So, Carl was set that we were going to have this baby on September 28th or 29th...I'm not sure it is looking like that is going to happen! Although, anything can happen at any point! I am mentally ready to have this baby, I am getting to the point where I am ready to meet him/her on this side of the womb. Physically, however, I still feel like I could be pregnant for years more! I am thankful that I still feel so wonderful. As I get more and more anxious awaiting THE day, I have been trying to remind myself to enjoy these last few days of being pregnant, when it is just the two of us. Where there are only sweet baby kicks and hiccups, no crying and colic. This song makes me teary every time I listen to it, and helps me to remember to savor every last moment, instead of wishing them away!
You're Going To Miss This by: Trace Adkins
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
40 Week Dr. Appointment
Today was my 40 week Dr. appointment...even though I will not be 40 weeks pregnant until Sunday. Since my next appointment isn't until Wednesday, this counts as week 40, because by then I will be 40 weeks+3days. Not much is going on in the world of the baby, except that both daddy and I are begging him/her to come out before the weekend!
This week I didn't gain any weight (hooray), and my belly is measuring right on track at 39 weeks. The baby cooperated with getting his/her heart rate checked and it was bouncing between 145 and 150. The baby definitely wasn't as active as it is sometimes. My blood pressure was normal at 120/80...although it usually isn't that high. At my appointment next week, if the cervix is "ripe" they are going to strip my membrane's to hopefully kick start the action...at that point too, they will clear any kind of "natural induction" methods that we choose to use...hopefully we won't need them though.
The week of the 10th-11th, I have to get a fluid check and stress test, to make sure the baby is still doing okay, since it will be one week past due. If those levels come back okay, then they will give me until Friday the 14th to be induced...if they don't however, I will have to begin the induction process later that same day. In the doctor's words..."We are making plans now so we are prepared, and so God will change our plans." I was comforted to hear that, and certainly hope we do not have to go that long before we meet our little one!
On a more exciting note--the baby's nursery is now COMPLETELY done, although I have yet to take a picture of it! I am so excited that we can cross that off of our list!! WOO HOO! Carl also got the car seat installed tonight, so we are officially DONE preparing for the bambino/a!
We are saying some prayers and hoping the next few days brings baby, but only time will tell! The beach trip is Tuesday, and if I make it to my next appointment, then we will surely not be able to get to the beach. We will see what happens!!
Tomorrow Bekah and Abby are spending the night--and will hang out all day! I'm excited to have people to pass the day with, and then on Friday I will be canning with mom possibly. Saturday I am supposed to watch a friend's girl, and get together with another friend! Lots of plans that hopefully the baby will change!!
This week I didn't gain any weight (hooray), and my belly is measuring right on track at 39 weeks. The baby cooperated with getting his/her heart rate checked and it was bouncing between 145 and 150. The baby definitely wasn't as active as it is sometimes. My blood pressure was normal at 120/80...although it usually isn't that high. At my appointment next week, if the cervix is "ripe" they are going to strip my membrane's to hopefully kick start the action...at that point too, they will clear any kind of "natural induction" methods that we choose to use...hopefully we won't need them though.
The week of the 10th-11th, I have to get a fluid check and stress test, to make sure the baby is still doing okay, since it will be one week past due. If those levels come back okay, then they will give me until Friday the 14th to be induced...if they don't however, I will have to begin the induction process later that same day. In the doctor's words..."We are making plans now so we are prepared, and so God will change our plans." I was comforted to hear that, and certainly hope we do not have to go that long before we meet our little one!
On a more exciting note--the baby's nursery is now COMPLETELY done, although I have yet to take a picture of it! I am so excited that we can cross that off of our list!! WOO HOO! Carl also got the car seat installed tonight, so we are officially DONE preparing for the bambino/a!
We are saying some prayers and hoping the next few days brings baby, but only time will tell! The beach trip is Tuesday, and if I make it to my next appointment, then we will surely not be able to get to the beach. We will see what happens!!
Tomorrow Bekah and Abby are spending the night--and will hang out all day! I'm excited to have people to pass the day with, and then on Friday I will be canning with mom possibly. Saturday I am supposed to watch a friend's girl, and get together with another friend! Lots of plans that hopefully the baby will change!!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Dr.'s Appointment-Week 39
Yesterday was my week 39 doctors appointment...and it was a dramatic doctors appointment to say the least. Carl had just gotten back from his road trip to Wisconsin, so he was able to tag along with me, and met the other doctor in the practice...which I was thankful about. When the doctor went to go find the baby's heartbeat, it took her FOREVER! My heart was pounding the whole entire time, meanwhile I felt like I was going to pass out. How could we make it this far, for something to happen? It was the WORST feeling in the world. She finally found the baby's heartbeat right under my left rib...which of course then led to an internal exam, to make sure the baby really was head down. While she did the internal, she told me that I have not dilated at all, but she said this was common in first time mom's. It's not usually until subsequent births that dilation happens before labor actually begins. This comforted me, but I was a little bummed hoping that something NOTICEABLE was happening!
The baby's heartbeat was quite considerably lower at 140bpm...although it seems like the baby is always napping for this doctor! My stomach measured at 38 weeks, which is 1cm less than last week...which happens as the baby drops lower into the pelvis. I have started to experience cramping, as well as nausea. The doctor said that these are signposts of the body begin to prepare itself for the impending labor.
In less than 2 weeks, mom and dad head for the beach! I'm saying lots of prayers that if I am unable to go, that I am able to accept this fate with lots of grace...it'll be hard to do. I'm trying to not get my hopes up too high, but then again at the same time...it's hard not to do! I look forward to the beach week ALL YEAR!
On a weird note--yesterday we were in the grocery store and bought a gallon of milk that expires AFTER the baby's due date...talk about a weird feeling! It's so funny to know that the baby could be born before the milk expires! Next, I'll be looking for the gallon's of milk that have October 16th on them--the magic day they will not let me go past!
Anyways, Abby spent the night here last night, and she and I are going to get a lot of straightening up done around the house today. Look for some more postings in the next few days of all the cool stuff the baby has gotten over the last week!!
The baby's heartbeat was quite considerably lower at 140bpm...although it seems like the baby is always napping for this doctor! My stomach measured at 38 weeks, which is 1cm less than last week...which happens as the baby drops lower into the pelvis. I have started to experience cramping, as well as nausea. The doctor said that these are signposts of the body begin to prepare itself for the impending labor.
In less than 2 weeks, mom and dad head for the beach! I'm saying lots of prayers that if I am unable to go, that I am able to accept this fate with lots of grace...it'll be hard to do. I'm trying to not get my hopes up too high, but then again at the same time...it's hard not to do! I look forward to the beach week ALL YEAR!
On a weird note--yesterday we were in the grocery store and bought a gallon of milk that expires AFTER the baby's due date...talk about a weird feeling! It's so funny to know that the baby could be born before the milk expires! Next, I'll be looking for the gallon's of milk that have October 16th on them--the magic day they will not let me go past!
Anyways, Abby spent the night here last night, and she and I are going to get a lot of straightening up done around the house today. Look for some more postings in the next few days of all the cool stuff the baby has gotten over the last week!!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Feelings--38 weeks
I can't believe that in 2 weeks, we will be completely FULL TERM! In fact, we really are right now, but how many baby's are actually born on their due date, or early? I know some are, but I am not holding my breath. Besides, I am actually kind of happy he/she is still in there--holding out for a bit longer!
I am definitely going to miss being pregnant with this child. I was telling Carl the other night how thankful I am that I can honestly say I have LOVED every minute (thus far) of being pregnant. I feel great, and have done everything that I normally would have done before being pregnant (sans alcohol and a few other things). This baby has already been a real blessing to me, and although I am excited to hold and love on him/her...at the same time I feel like I could spend the rest of my life content just to be pregnant with this baby (check back in in the next month and see if it is still the case). As much as I love being pregnant though, I really am on a time crunch to get this baby out before October 4th...or at the latest October 7th. To be able to bring my precious little one to the Atlantic Ocean for the first time when they are so little--would be AWESOME! Hopefully he/she will love the ocean and cherish the time spent at the beach with family as much as his/her mommy does! There is just nothing quite like the beach!
We'll see how the rest of this story plays out, and what we can/can not do after the baby is born. I am praying that my hormones will level back out quickly after the baby is born, and that I will not be to upset that I am no longer pregnant!
Carl leaves for out of town business tomorrow--and doesn't come back until Wednesday! I told him that it definitely (if I can help it) isn't going to come while he is gone--however anything after that point is FAIR GAME! We'll see what day this little one chooses for his/her birthday!
I am definitely going to miss being pregnant with this child. I was telling Carl the other night how thankful I am that I can honestly say I have LOVED every minute (thus far) of being pregnant. I feel great, and have done everything that I normally would have done before being pregnant (sans alcohol and a few other things). This baby has already been a real blessing to me, and although I am excited to hold and love on him/her...at the same time I feel like I could spend the rest of my life content just to be pregnant with this baby (check back in in the next month and see if it is still the case). As much as I love being pregnant though, I really am on a time crunch to get this baby out before October 4th...or at the latest October 7th. To be able to bring my precious little one to the Atlantic Ocean for the first time when they are so little--would be AWESOME! Hopefully he/she will love the ocean and cherish the time spent at the beach with family as much as his/her mommy does! There is just nothing quite like the beach!
We'll see how the rest of this story plays out, and what we can/can not do after the baby is born. I am praying that my hormones will level back out quickly after the baby is born, and that I will not be to upset that I am no longer pregnant!
Carl leaves for out of town business tomorrow--and doesn't come back until Wednesday! I told him that it definitely (if I can help it) isn't going to come while he is gone--however anything after that point is FAIR GAME! We'll see what day this little one chooses for his/her birthday!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Pictures from Around the House
Here are some pictures from around our house!!!
We finally were able to agree on a bedding set for our bed!!! We are both THRILLED with how cute it turned out! Of course, the room still needs some finishing touches--but it will come with time!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Carl's Birthday!
We had a great time tonight celebrating Carl's birthday! All of the family on both sides (except for Cory and Ray) were here to celebrate and it was nice to have everybody here at our house...I just love being in my "home." What was even better--was the fact that we did not have drive the 45 minutes to Mars Hill after celebrating--that was absolutely wonderful!
Some highlights of the gifts were:
Some highlights of the gifts were:
- Shorts
- Wilson Magazines
- A blanket from C.T. to daddy
- All kinds of labor snacks, etc...for daddy
- Itunes Gift Card
- Double hammock (which will be nice for camping)
- Cookies
I guess I have probably forgotten some things--anyways, it was a great time! Here are a few pictures of the celebration!
Doctor's Appointment
Yesterday, I had a doctors appointment. Carl and I both went, and he took the rest of the afternoon off--which was WONDERFUL! It was so good to spend some time together!
My appointment was at 12:45, and lasted almost an hour. We talked about all sorts of birth preferences, and the standard protocol that the doctors follow like: when to call them during labor, what you should call about, how to get a hold of them, etc. During the next few weeks the doctor and I are going to talk about different emergency scenarios that might come up during the labor and delivery. I feel more comfortable talking about these scenarios ahead of time, instead of assuming everything will be "textbook."
The baby is still head down--and doing VERY well. He/she is an active little guy/girl, and was putting on quite the show for the doctor! The baby's heartbeat was 150 bpm, which is a little lower than it normally has been. My belly is measuring at 39 weeks--although that really doesn't mean anything about when labor is impending. The due date is now 3 1/2 weeks away...and I am hoping the baby comes a little before then, but we will see!
Today's Carl's birthday--and I am so excited! I just love birthday's!!! Hopefully, he will enjoy his day as much as I will...good news is he won't have to share it with his little peanut! Both families are coming over for dinner, which will be fun, and we'll eat some birthday cake! Becka and Abby got here about 9:30 this morning, and I have been having fun putting them to work!! It's nice to have them to hang out with!! I'm making macaroni and cheese and corn dogs for lunch--not gourmet but will be delicious none the less!!!
My appointment was at 12:45, and lasted almost an hour. We talked about all sorts of birth preferences, and the standard protocol that the doctors follow like: when to call them during labor, what you should call about, how to get a hold of them, etc. During the next few weeks the doctor and I are going to talk about different emergency scenarios that might come up during the labor and delivery. I feel more comfortable talking about these scenarios ahead of time, instead of assuming everything will be "textbook."
The baby is still head down--and doing VERY well. He/she is an active little guy/girl, and was putting on quite the show for the doctor! The baby's heartbeat was 150 bpm, which is a little lower than it normally has been. My belly is measuring at 39 weeks--although that really doesn't mean anything about when labor is impending. The due date is now 3 1/2 weeks away...and I am hoping the baby comes a little before then, but we will see!
Today's Carl's birthday--and I am so excited! I just love birthday's!!! Hopefully, he will enjoy his day as much as I will...good news is he won't have to share it with his little peanut! Both families are coming over for dinner, which will be fun, and we'll eat some birthday cake! Becka and Abby got here about 9:30 this morning, and I have been having fun putting them to work!! It's nice to have them to hang out with!! I'm making macaroni and cheese and corn dogs for lunch--not gourmet but will be delicious none the less!!!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Girls Night!!! :)
It was so much fun to just hang out with my sisters last night! We had a great time at Papa's and Beer (although the indigestion afterwards wasn't so grand!). The food--like always--was delicious, and Jess even enjoyed it!! Amazing, right? Afterwards, we went shopping to Wal-mart, and I got some loc-tite poster putty to hang an alphabet in the baby's room...I'm pretty excited about this and am going to have to take a picture of it in the next few days, when it is finished! I hope to have the baby's room, done and organized by Carl's birthday, so that everyone can ooh and ahh over it while they are out in Booneville anyway! We'll see how that ends up working out! We also got some canning jars while we were at the Wally World--so that we can make more salsa to fill them up!
After our shopping excursion, we built a fire in mom and dad's chimanea (I hope that is spelt correctly). We made smores which were oh so good! After smores we hung around talking while the fire went down. We then went to Carl's parents to take a walk with them, and Rocky in his wheelchair. Let me tell you...that dog FLIES in it! I was amazed at the speed he picks up going downhill, and that he can make it up the hills so fast, too! While we were walking I had 1 or 2 Braxton Hicks contractions, and quite a bit of pelvic discomfort. The baby keeps settling lower into my pelvis, and with the impact of each step, causes minor discomfort. I am thankful though the baby and my body are doing exactly what they need to prepare themselves for the big day!
This morning- we are going to pick out a new pair of glasses for Jess--5 female opinions should be pretty interesting! I can't wait to see what she ends up with, and whose opinion will be dominate (or maybe will we all agree?)! When we get home--it's all business!! Salsa, salsa, salsa, and some more SALSA! We are going to bust it out, hopefully! Look for some pictures in the next few days of Carl's birthday celebration--and Baby Tannenbaum's completed nursery.
After our shopping excursion, we built a fire in mom and dad's chimanea (I hope that is spelt correctly). We made smores which were oh so good! After smores we hung around talking while the fire went down. We then went to Carl's parents to take a walk with them, and Rocky in his wheelchair. Let me tell you...that dog FLIES in it! I was amazed at the speed he picks up going downhill, and that he can make it up the hills so fast, too! While we were walking I had 1 or 2 Braxton Hicks contractions, and quite a bit of pelvic discomfort. The baby keeps settling lower into my pelvis, and with the impact of each step, causes minor discomfort. I am thankful though the baby and my body are doing exactly what they need to prepare themselves for the big day!
This morning- we are going to pick out a new pair of glasses for Jess--5 female opinions should be pretty interesting! I can't wait to see what she ends up with, and whose opinion will be dominate (or maybe will we all agree?)! When we get home--it's all business!! Salsa, salsa, salsa, and some more SALSA! We are going to bust it out, hopefully! Look for some pictures in the next few days of Carl's birthday celebration--and Baby Tannenbaum's completed nursery.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Full-Term and Full- Moon!!
Since we have hit the 37 week mark, it's now time to sit back, relax, and wait for baby to come...right? I would like to say that I want to sit back and relax, but that is the LAST thing I want to do these days! Both Carl and I have a busy week ahead of us! It'll probably seem like in a blink of an eye, we will be at Week 38!
Tonight--Carl goes to his shooting league night, and Jess, Bex, Abby, and I are doing a sister's dinner! I am very excited to be able to go out the 4 of us...I don't know if we have ever done it honestly!
Tomorrow (Tuesday)- I am spending the day at mom and dad's...hopefully making some more salsa, or just hanging out with the girls. Jess leaves to go back to Ohio on Friday, so I want to get as much visiting time as possible before she leaves.
Wednesday- We have a doctor appointment at 12:45...I'm very excited because Carl will be going with me to the doctor! He hasn't been to the doctor with me since our ultrasounds, so it will be nice for him to have a chance to interact with the dr's also. We are supposed to talk about our birth plan (what our ideal birth will be like) with her, along with listening to the babies heartbeat, making sure he/she is still head down, checking the fundal height, blood pressure, and weight. I don't think I have to have an internal exam done, although maybe I will. Carl's also taking the rest of the afternoon off, so we will go shopping for a few last minute things that we need to pick up for the baby. On the list: Oral Vitamin K, and Re-charge (some kind of natural, energy drink) for mom after baby is born.
Thursday- Carl's 26th birthday! There has been talk about having both families to our house for his birthday dinner/cake...I don't think anything has been finalized yet though, because Carl has up until Wednesday to get a machine sold in Michigan, and if they do, will leave for a trip to Michigan/Wisconsin on Thursday. Needless to say, that has kept some planning at bay.
Friday--Oh, how I love Friday's!!! There is actually NOTHING to do on Friday so far! If Jess doesn't leave for Ohio until Saturday though, I will probably spend the day at mom and dad's.
Saturday--I'm hoping to get out and go for a hike with Carl somewhere...where, I have no clue, but I am getting a hankering to be outside walking around. Saturday night, I have a girls night with my friend Holly, which I am REALLY looking forward to, because we are hitting up Carabba's! I love their bread, salad, and Pasta Carabba! It makes my mouth water just thinking about it!
Sunday will then mark week 38! And thus, the weekly cycle starts all over again! Next week, Carl is going to be gone from Sunday afternoon-Wednesday sometime. He's hoping the baby doesn't decide to come when he is gone. If it does, we'll move on to Plan B and have our favorite childbirth teacher (she taught our 12 week class) come to the hospital with me. In the meantime, I am going to spend those few days at mom and dad's, so that I am not in Mars Hill by myself...and that will take care of half of week 38.
Tonight is a full moon...I wonder if anything will be in store for me. I'm thinking that may be more of an old wives tale than anything else, but one can wonder! Personally, I think it is still a little to early for peanut, even though I am full term. I would like one more week with the little bugger inside me. After next week though, the pressure is on to get this little one out before October 4th!
Tonight--Carl goes to his shooting league night, and Jess, Bex, Abby, and I are doing a sister's dinner! I am very excited to be able to go out the 4 of us...I don't know if we have ever done it honestly!
Tomorrow (Tuesday)- I am spending the day at mom and dad's...hopefully making some more salsa, or just hanging out with the girls. Jess leaves to go back to Ohio on Friday, so I want to get as much visiting time as possible before she leaves.
Wednesday- We have a doctor appointment at 12:45...I'm very excited because Carl will be going with me to the doctor! He hasn't been to the doctor with me since our ultrasounds, so it will be nice for him to have a chance to interact with the dr's also. We are supposed to talk about our birth plan (what our ideal birth will be like) with her, along with listening to the babies heartbeat, making sure he/she is still head down, checking the fundal height, blood pressure, and weight. I don't think I have to have an internal exam done, although maybe I will. Carl's also taking the rest of the afternoon off, so we will go shopping for a few last minute things that we need to pick up for the baby. On the list: Oral Vitamin K, and Re-charge (some kind of natural, energy drink) for mom after baby is born.
Thursday- Carl's 26th birthday! There has been talk about having both families to our house for his birthday dinner/cake...I don't think anything has been finalized yet though, because Carl has up until Wednesday to get a machine sold in Michigan, and if they do, will leave for a trip to Michigan/Wisconsin on Thursday. Needless to say, that has kept some planning at bay.
Friday--Oh, how I love Friday's!!! There is actually NOTHING to do on Friday so far! If Jess doesn't leave for Ohio until Saturday though, I will probably spend the day at mom and dad's.
Saturday--I'm hoping to get out and go for a hike with Carl somewhere...where, I have no clue, but I am getting a hankering to be outside walking around. Saturday night, I have a girls night with my friend Holly, which I am REALLY looking forward to, because we are hitting up Carabba's! I love their bread, salad, and Pasta Carabba! It makes my mouth water just thinking about it!
Sunday will then mark week 38! And thus, the weekly cycle starts all over again! Next week, Carl is going to be gone from Sunday afternoon-Wednesday sometime. He's hoping the baby doesn't decide to come when he is gone. If it does, we'll move on to Plan B and have our favorite childbirth teacher (she taught our 12 week class) come to the hospital with me. In the meantime, I am going to spend those few days at mom and dad's, so that I am not in Mars Hill by myself...and that will take care of half of week 38.
Tonight is a full moon...I wonder if anything will be in store for me. I'm thinking that may be more of an old wives tale than anything else, but one can wonder! Personally, I think it is still a little to early for peanut, even though I am full term. I would like one more week with the little bugger inside me. After next week though, the pressure is on to get this little one out before October 4th!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
37 weeks, Braxton Hicks Contractions, and Getting Up Multiple Times in the Night
Well, to start things off, we are at the 37 week mark! Our baby is now considered "full-term," regardless of when he/she decides to be born. I am very excited to have made it this far, and feel so accomplished and ready to breathe a sigh of relief! I never would have guessed the responsibility that you feel when pregnant...I'll be happy to share the load a bit with Carl in a few weeks.
The doctors will let us go up to 2 weeks past term, if the baby looks healthy still on an ultrasound, and if we both pass a stress test. However, if these tests do not come back with good results, they will induce us. I'm praying this little one decides not to be quite as stubborn as his/her mama (2 weeks late) and will take the best of both worlds and be right on time (daddy was 2 weeks early).
This morning while lying down in bed, I had my first Braxton-Hicks Contraction. At least, that is what I believe happened. It started in my back and moved around to my abdomen. It was a bit unexpected, but not at all unbearable. I'm happy that I got to experience at least one before the big day comes!
Friday night, while watching a movie with mom, Jess, Bekah, and TJ the baby moved. I'm not exactly sure where he/she moved to, but that night I had to get up to go to the bathroom 3 times in the night. Same thing happened again last night, and has been happening multiple times throughout the day. I am guessing that the baby has moved itself down more, where it can press on its mommy's bladder all the more! I am thankful that this is just starting now though--and up until this point I have not had to deal with waking up multiple times in the night.
A new thing has also been insomnia--or just not being able to get back to sleep. For example, I have been awake since 5:00 this morning...and I don't feel exhausted at all. In fact, I feel energized ready to start the day! Carl--not so much! He's enjoying a few more minutes of sleep--lucky him!
To close, I can't believe it has been a decade since 9/11. That to me is so hard to believe. I just finished watching a little boy speak about his father, and how he was a hero...and it just brought tears to my eyes. So many children who lost their parents, parents who lost their children, sisters and brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends--my heart goes out to them in a whole new way this year.
The doctors will let us go up to 2 weeks past term, if the baby looks healthy still on an ultrasound, and if we both pass a stress test. However, if these tests do not come back with good results, they will induce us. I'm praying this little one decides not to be quite as stubborn as his/her mama (2 weeks late) and will take the best of both worlds and be right on time (daddy was 2 weeks early).
This morning while lying down in bed, I had my first Braxton-Hicks Contraction. At least, that is what I believe happened. It started in my back and moved around to my abdomen. It was a bit unexpected, but not at all unbearable. I'm happy that I got to experience at least one before the big day comes!
Friday night, while watching a movie with mom, Jess, Bekah, and TJ the baby moved. I'm not exactly sure where he/she moved to, but that night I had to get up to go to the bathroom 3 times in the night. Same thing happened again last night, and has been happening multiple times throughout the day. I am guessing that the baby has moved itself down more, where it can press on its mommy's bladder all the more! I am thankful that this is just starting now though--and up until this point I have not had to deal with waking up multiple times in the night.
A new thing has also been insomnia--or just not being able to get back to sleep. For example, I have been awake since 5:00 this morning...and I don't feel exhausted at all. In fact, I feel energized ready to start the day! Carl--not so much! He's enjoying a few more minutes of sleep--lucky him!
To close, I can't believe it has been a decade since 9/11. That to me is so hard to believe. I just finished watching a little boy speak about his father, and how he was a hero...and it just brought tears to my eyes. So many children who lost their parents, parents who lost their children, sisters and brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends--my heart goes out to them in a whole new way this year.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Salsa, Birthday Present, Hot Chocolate, and "Gammie"
I spent today at mom and dad's house helping mom can salsa. For those of you who don't know, canning and preserving food with mom is one of my favorite things to do! Don't ask me why--but I LOVE it. We canned 14 jars of salsa today, with a bunch more we are going to tackle tomorrow.
This evening, mom and Jess helped me finish the baby's birthday present to daddy (well--it's kind of for the baby too). I'm very excited to see Carl's reaction to it-I hope he likes it! :)
After we finished the birthday present, we moved to the living room where we sat and chatted, while mom cross-stitched and Jess knitted. I did not work on anything crafty, and instead concentrated on the chatting and drinking my water! Those 10 glasses daily are hard to keep track of!
Hot chocolate-popcorn- and the movie Proposal (well-at least part of it) were next on the agenda! Bexy makes a killer hot chocolate, if I do say so myself! It was DELICIOUS! Both the baby and I enjoyed it--he/she was kicking around like crazy once the chocolate hit it's system!
The proposal is one of my favorite movies (Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds) and ever since we first saw it, Bekah, Abby, and I have thought that "Gammie" would be the perfect name for mom as a grandmother! I am not quite sure how mom feels about this name--but I think it couldn't be cuter! We'll see as time goes by what she wants this little one to call her--and who knows, maybe he/she will come up with something better! Only time will tell!
I believe I am going to be going to bed--more canning awaits tomorrow, as well as a wedding shower tomorrow afternoon for my friend and her fiance. I'm going to need my beauty sleep for that one!
This evening, mom and Jess helped me finish the baby's birthday present to daddy (well--it's kind of for the baby too). I'm very excited to see Carl's reaction to it-I hope he likes it! :)
After we finished the birthday present, we moved to the living room where we sat and chatted, while mom cross-stitched and Jess knitted. I did not work on anything crafty, and instead concentrated on the chatting and drinking my water! Those 10 glasses daily are hard to keep track of!
Hot chocolate-popcorn- and the movie Proposal (well-at least part of it) were next on the agenda! Bexy makes a killer hot chocolate, if I do say so myself! It was DELICIOUS! Both the baby and I enjoyed it--he/she was kicking around like crazy once the chocolate hit it's system!
The proposal is one of my favorite movies (Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds) and ever since we first saw it, Bekah, Abby, and I have thought that "Gammie" would be the perfect name for mom as a grandmother! I am not quite sure how mom feels about this name--but I think it couldn't be cuter! We'll see as time goes by what she wants this little one to call her--and who knows, maybe he/she will come up with something better! Only time will tell!
I believe I am going to be going to bed--more canning awaits tomorrow, as well as a wedding shower tomorrow afternoon for my friend and her fiance. I'm going to need my beauty sleep for that one!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Hospital Tour!
Today (I guess if you want to be technical this evening) at 7:30pm we had our hospital tour! I (Liz) immediately felt like a slacker for waiting so long to go on one, since more than a few of the other couple's weren't due until end of October-November! Oh well, better a little later than never, I say!
Personally, I'm glad we waited so long. After going by the hospital tonight--it seemed so real!
Yes--I can feel pretty much every kick and movement.
Yes--the baby bag and carseat are in the car.
Yes--the clothes are all washed and folded and ready to wear.
Yes--we have seen this sweet little one on the ultrasound.
Yes--I hear its heartbeat every time I go to the doctor.
Yes--everything in our house seems to center around baby along with every conversation we have.
Yes--the crib is up and ready
So--even though all of this preparation has been done to get ready for this wonderful day when we will no longer be "Liz and Carl" but also "Mom and Dad" something about the hospital trip made it SO REAL. There is no denying it...within the next month(ish) we will be parents! CRAZY!
The labor and delivery area of the hospital is on the fourth floor--which seems like a good number (I guess). I have always like even numbers. Carl and I have decided that it is just going to be myself and him, along with our physician and the nursing staff at Mission. We are very excited to be able to welcome our little baby into the world, just the two of us! After all, we are going to be the ones to feed, clothe, stay up all night, etc with this child, I think it's best that we all have some time to get to know each other before we are swamped with all the happy family!
After the baby is born--you stay on the labor and delivery floor from anywhere between 2-4 hours (I think). During this time, our doctor stays with us the ENTIRE time (along with the entire time you are laboring in the hospital) which I think is wonderful! It will be so nice to have their support and knowledge in those first few hours. Right after the baby is delivered, they put it immediately on the mother's chest. As long as the baby is healthy--there is no need for the baby to be taken away from mommy (which I like--except for of course the opportunity for daddy to hold baby). The placenta is then delivered in the next hour or so (at least that is what I have heard) and the doctor takes care of any stitching that needs to be done, etc. Once all that is done, and while it is being done the baby is getting started on breastfeeding too. As our doctor put it--if you are a modest person, you don't want anybody at the hospital for at least the first few hours.
Once the time has passed, and you have successfully peed on your own (a true sign you are ready to move on I guess), they move you upstairs to the 5th floor--which is the mother-baby unit. Our doctor also accompanies us upstairs, where they make sure the next feeding goes well, along with our first lesson in newborn massage (I'm pretty excited about this--it's supposed to be very soothing for the baby). The doctor stays as long as their schedule permits, they aren't in a rush to leave you to "fend for yourselves." Since we are both newbie's at this...I am going to soak in all of their breastfeeding/new mommy and daddy advice. Have I mentioned that I LOVE our doctor's? I have to say they are pretty fabulous!
Once on mother-baby, they recommend mommy getting showered and cleaned up, and then settling in for a nap together. Once nap time is finished--baby is freshest to meet the family! Plus--mommy and daddy will be too! They have AWESOME visiting hours on Mother-Baby unit too--which they enforce! No visitors before 9am (personally, I think it could even be 10...I don't know honestly how much I will be moving around at 9) and quiet time for new mom's and dad's and little one's is from 2pm-4pm every day. No visitors are allowed on the floor after 8:30pm (thank heavens!). I'm sure by then we will be plumb tuckered out!
Needless to say--the first few hours in the baby's life are awful busy for him/her! Hopefully he/she will be able to keep up--because their mommy does not like to sit still either! It better get ready for a busy, fun, wild ride!
I guess that's about all from the hospital tour--the rooms are pretty small I thought. I think they are going to feel cramped fast--which Carl will probably not be a fan of. On the labor and delivery floor- they have 4 rooms that have a whirlpool tub in them--I think I am going to start saying some prayers that they are available when I go into labor--the thought of water sounds so amazing! It's also supposed to make the contractions more bearable---and heck, I'll try anything (but hopefully not the actual medicine). We're leaving that all up to the day though--who knows what kind of birth this little one and God have orchestrated together! Whatever it is--will be the best for all of us though, that I do believe.
Well--I guess that's it! I'll leave this post with stating how thankful I am for an awesome hospital to give birth in, an awesome doctor to assist me in giving birth, an awesome husband to support me during the birth process, and an awesome God who already has this whole thing planned out for me! I guess I should add, and an awesome baby who I will be meeting VERY soon!
Personally, I'm glad we waited so long. After going by the hospital tonight--it seemed so real!
Yes--I can feel pretty much every kick and movement.
Yes--the baby bag and carseat are in the car.
Yes--the clothes are all washed and folded and ready to wear.
Yes--we have seen this sweet little one on the ultrasound.
Yes--I hear its heartbeat every time I go to the doctor.
Yes--everything in our house seems to center around baby along with every conversation we have.
Yes--the crib is up and ready
So--even though all of this preparation has been done to get ready for this wonderful day when we will no longer be "Liz and Carl" but also "Mom and Dad" something about the hospital trip made it SO REAL. There is no denying it...within the next month(ish) we will be parents! CRAZY!
The labor and delivery area of the hospital is on the fourth floor--which seems like a good number (I guess). I have always like even numbers. Carl and I have decided that it is just going to be myself and him, along with our physician and the nursing staff at Mission. We are very excited to be able to welcome our little baby into the world, just the two of us! After all, we are going to be the ones to feed, clothe, stay up all night, etc with this child, I think it's best that we all have some time to get to know each other before we are swamped with all the happy family!
After the baby is born--you stay on the labor and delivery floor from anywhere between 2-4 hours (I think). During this time, our doctor stays with us the ENTIRE time (along with the entire time you are laboring in the hospital) which I think is wonderful! It will be so nice to have their support and knowledge in those first few hours. Right after the baby is delivered, they put it immediately on the mother's chest. As long as the baby is healthy--there is no need for the baby to be taken away from mommy (which I like--except for of course the opportunity for daddy to hold baby). The placenta is then delivered in the next hour or so (at least that is what I have heard) and the doctor takes care of any stitching that needs to be done, etc. Once all that is done, and while it is being done the baby is getting started on breastfeeding too. As our doctor put it--if you are a modest person, you don't want anybody at the hospital for at least the first few hours.
Once the time has passed, and you have successfully peed on your own (a true sign you are ready to move on I guess), they move you upstairs to the 5th floor--which is the mother-baby unit. Our doctor also accompanies us upstairs, where they make sure the next feeding goes well, along with our first lesson in newborn massage (I'm pretty excited about this--it's supposed to be very soothing for the baby). The doctor stays as long as their schedule permits, they aren't in a rush to leave you to "fend for yourselves." Since we are both newbie's at this...I am going to soak in all of their breastfeeding/new mommy and daddy advice. Have I mentioned that I LOVE our doctor's? I have to say they are pretty fabulous!
Once on mother-baby, they recommend mommy getting showered and cleaned up, and then settling in for a nap together. Once nap time is finished--baby is freshest to meet the family! Plus--mommy and daddy will be too! They have AWESOME visiting hours on Mother-Baby unit too--which they enforce! No visitors before 9am (personally, I think it could even be 10...I don't know honestly how much I will be moving around at 9) and quiet time for new mom's and dad's and little one's is from 2pm-4pm every day. No visitors are allowed on the floor after 8:30pm (thank heavens!). I'm sure by then we will be plumb tuckered out!
Needless to say--the first few hours in the baby's life are awful busy for him/her! Hopefully he/she will be able to keep up--because their mommy does not like to sit still either! It better get ready for a busy, fun, wild ride!
I guess that's about all from the hospital tour--the rooms are pretty small I thought. I think they are going to feel cramped fast--which Carl will probably not be a fan of. On the labor and delivery floor- they have 4 rooms that have a whirlpool tub in them--I think I am going to start saying some prayers that they are available when I go into labor--the thought of water sounds so amazing! It's also supposed to make the contractions more bearable---and heck, I'll try anything (but hopefully not the actual medicine). We're leaving that all up to the day though--who knows what kind of birth this little one and God have orchestrated together! Whatever it is--will be the best for all of us though, that I do believe.
Well--I guess that's it! I'll leave this post with stating how thankful I am for an awesome hospital to give birth in, an awesome doctor to assist me in giving birth, an awesome husband to support me during the birth process, and an awesome God who already has this whole thing planned out for me! I guess I should add, and an awesome baby who I will be meeting VERY soon!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
36 weeks!
I can't believe that we are already at 36 weeks! It is crazy how fast time has flown by! Hopefully, these last few weeks will also fly by!
The baby is getting bigger everyday (at least that is what it feels like) and I am thankful that I am still sleeping well at night, and only have to get up a few times. I have also been feeling great energy wise, which I am thankful for too! The baby's new trick in the womb, has been the hiccups. While many people told me that babies start hiccuping around week 28--I have not felt them until the last few days! It sure is making up for lost time, though, because since I felt it the first time it keeps happening--many times a day!
We are so very thankful for such an easy pregnancy, and are praying for just as easy of a labor/delivery. We are also praying that the baby arrive a little early/ on time so that she/he can hopefully meet his/her aunts and uncles and great grandparents! This would be a HUGE relief/blessing if it comes to fruition, but if it doesn't God has bigger and better plans on when this little one is to come!
I have not had any "practice" contractions (Braxton-Hicks), so I do not know what to expect at all...hopefully though, I will get to experience a few of these before the real thing kicks in!
We had our 37 week check up yesterday, and the baby is still head down, and his/her heartbeat was 160-170. My appointment was after lunch, and he/she was moving around in there like crazy! My fundal height, measured right on track at 37 weeks, and my blood pressure is still good. My tests for Group B strep came back negative, which means we can wait labor out at home for up to 24 hours after my water breaks (if it does) because I do not need to get an IV antibiotics during labor. This is a HUGE blessing for me, especially since I want to spend as little time as possible before the baby is born at the hospital...afterwards is a different story! I may never want to leave!
Anyway--the doctor says mommy and baby are both doing well, and are hanging in there for the duration! Tomorrow night we have the tour of the hospital--labor and delivery, and mother baby. I'm excited to do this before the big day, since I have no clue where labor and delivery/mother-baby are in the hospital. Even though I know there would be somebody to get us to the right place, it is nice to be as prepared as possible. I guess that is it for now--look for some house pictures in the next few days--I realized I had not posted any up here!
The baby is getting bigger everyday (at least that is what it feels like) and I am thankful that I am still sleeping well at night, and only have to get up a few times. I have also been feeling great energy wise, which I am thankful for too! The baby's new trick in the womb, has been the hiccups. While many people told me that babies start hiccuping around week 28--I have not felt them until the last few days! It sure is making up for lost time, though, because since I felt it the first time it keeps happening--many times a day!
We are so very thankful for such an easy pregnancy, and are praying for just as easy of a labor/delivery. We are also praying that the baby arrive a little early/ on time so that she/he can hopefully meet his/her aunts and uncles and great grandparents! This would be a HUGE relief/blessing if it comes to fruition, but if it doesn't God has bigger and better plans on when this little one is to come!
I have not had any "practice" contractions (Braxton-Hicks), so I do not know what to expect at all...hopefully though, I will get to experience a few of these before the real thing kicks in!
We had our 37 week check up yesterday, and the baby is still head down, and his/her heartbeat was 160-170. My appointment was after lunch, and he/she was moving around in there like crazy! My fundal height, measured right on track at 37 weeks, and my blood pressure is still good. My tests for Group B strep came back negative, which means we can wait labor out at home for up to 24 hours after my water breaks (if it does) because I do not need to get an IV antibiotics during labor. This is a HUGE blessing for me, especially since I want to spend as little time as possible before the baby is born at the hospital...afterwards is a different story! I may never want to leave!
Anyway--the doctor says mommy and baby are both doing well, and are hanging in there for the duration! Tomorrow night we have the tour of the hospital--labor and delivery, and mother baby. I'm excited to do this before the big day, since I have no clue where labor and delivery/mother-baby are in the hospital. Even though I know there would be somebody to get us to the right place, it is nice to be as prepared as possible. I guess that is it for now--look for some house pictures in the next few days--I realized I had not posted any up here!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Skinny Dip Falls
This morning we went with the parents and sister to Skinny Dip Falls! What a great time we had! The water--although very cold--was refreshing! The hike into the falls area was downhill most of the way there, so the climb back up was mostly uphill! It really wasn't bad at all though!
Here are some pictures from the hike...we are 36 weeks pregnant in these pictures...only 28 more days!
Here are some pictures from the hike...we are 36 weeks pregnant in these pictures...only 28 more days!
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