Friday, May 21, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
38 Weeks & Just about cooked :)
Baby AJ is getting ready to meet everyone! Went to my 38 week appt and everything is looking good. He's has officially "lightened" and is still in perfect, head down position. Yesterday, I was feeling an unusual amount of cramps and thought this could be it! False alarm, and luckily I already had an appt with my doctor to confirm this otherwise I would have called in. No dilatation and cervix is still closed, but my doctor confirmed its from the baby being so low and its now just a waiting game. He also mentioned of a potential cinco de mayo baby, which will be six days before our given due date. As long as he's cooked and ready, then we will be too!
In other news, Franko and I met with a pediatrician yesterday. His name is Dr. Joe Scaramozza and he works at the Pediatricial Healthcare Association on Main Street in Melrose. He's actually Bridgette and Kiernan's doctor, so the recommendation comes from two great and healthy sources! Glad we met and liked him, because its important to have a pediatrician picked out BEFORE you go into the hospital for delivery --- something to note. It's also comforting to know that Dr. Joe is linked with Melrose-Wakefield Hospital and will be does routinely rounds every Tuesday and Thursday on newborn babies. So if Baby AJ comes out on one of those days, then he'll have a chance to meet him. Otherwise, we'll go to his office two days after leaving the hospital for a first time examination.
I've also been having this extra burst of energy (started last week) and can't sleep, can't do anything but think of my "to do" list. The other night I woke up every hour, popping out of bed feeling that I had something important to do and then finally just got up for the day at 5AM to work on the baby's room. This included washing the babies clothes, washing new bottles, organizing our mountain hill of diapers and wipes!!, etc. . . the list is endless. Thanks to my wonderful Franko, he had last week off from school (April vacation) and voluntarily took some of these "to do's" off my plate. I'm one lucky lady for having such a supportive hubby (xoxo!!).
Thanks to this amazing spring weather, Franko and I have been doing a daily walk after dinner in our neighborhood. My doctor actually lives only a few blocks up on Country Club Road and said he has spotted us a number of times walking. It's funny how small a town can get! But I'm super anxious about trying to stay on my feet as long as I can. Keep myself going. Not only do I need it mentally, but its also really good for the baby. No swelling in the feet or anything, and again thanks to mother-nature, I've been feeling awesome otherwise. It's a great time of year to be pregnant.
Not sure if I'll be able to blog again until after the baby's born, but knowing me, I'll keep you guys fully posted as much as I can. Keep those cell phones charged and ready! Baby AJ is just about cooked :)
Love you all and we look forward introducing you to Baby AJ very soon!
& Happy early Cinco de Mayo and Mother's Day!
In other news, Franko and I met with a pediatrician yesterday. His name is Dr. Joe Scaramozza and he works at the Pediatricial Healthcare Association on Main Street in Melrose. He's actually Bridgette and Kiernan's doctor, so the recommendation comes from two great and healthy sources! Glad we met and liked him, because its important to have a pediatrician picked out BEFORE you go into the hospital for delivery --- something to note. It's also comforting to know that Dr. Joe is linked with Melrose-Wakefield Hospital and will be does routinely rounds every Tuesday and Thursday on newborn babies. So if Baby AJ comes out on one of those days, then he'll have a chance to meet him. Otherwise, we'll go to his office two days after leaving the hospital for a first time examination.
I've also been having this extra burst of energy (started last week) and can't sleep, can't do anything but think of my "to do" list. The other night I woke up every hour, popping out of bed feeling that I had something important to do and then finally just got up for the day at 5AM to work on the baby's room. This included washing the babies clothes, washing new bottles, organizing our mountain hill of diapers and wipes!!, etc. . . the list is endless. Thanks to my wonderful Franko, he had last week off from school (April vacation) and voluntarily took some of these "to do's" off my plate. I'm one lucky lady for having such a supportive hubby (xoxo!!).
Thanks to this amazing spring weather, Franko and I have been doing a daily walk after dinner in our neighborhood. My doctor actually lives only a few blocks up on Country Club Road and said he has spotted us a number of times walking. It's funny how small a town can get! But I'm super anxious about trying to stay on my feet as long as I can. Keep myself going. Not only do I need it mentally, but its also really good for the baby. No swelling in the feet or anything, and again thanks to mother-nature, I've been feeling awesome otherwise. It's a great time of year to be pregnant.
Not sure if I'll be able to blog again until after the baby's born, but knowing me, I'll keep you guys fully posted as much as I can. Keep those cell phones charged and ready! Baby AJ is just about cooked :)
Love you all and we look forward introducing you to Baby AJ very soon!
& Happy early Cinco de Mayo and Mother's Day!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Baby Shower 4.25.10
Great day! Thanks everyone for coming and giving baby AJ such wonderful and thoughtful gifts. He can't wait to meet you all soon!
38 weeks on Tuesday!
38 weeks on Tuesday!
Friday, April 23, 2010
37 Week Doc Appt & Full Term
Went to the doctors yesterday (now bumped to every week) and everything is looking great. No "lightening" yet, but head is still down and his growth has been well and steady. I've been feeling a lot more pressure in the pelvic area (sorry to be graphic!) so I was surprised to hear that he hasn't moved yet. And I'm still feeling the Braxton Hicks contractions every night after our walks, which can be uncomfortable but manageable. Its a similar feeling to a cramp you get after a work out or running, very very tight. Next appt the doctor is going to give me a full exam to see if I have dilated at all, which I'll probably know/feel already, but he wants to double check. He also predicts that my whole pregnancy is a 30 lb weight gain.
Here is the latest update on babycenter.com:
"Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)
Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz."
Here is the latest update on babycenter.com:
"Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)
Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz."
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
37 Weeks & Red Sox Game
Nothing stops us! 37 weeks and enjoying a night out at the Red Sox game on 4/20/10 --- Sox beat Texas 7-6 with a homer from newbie player McDonald (#54) in the 9th!
First picture of the Penney Family at Fenway Park. Baby AJ was kicking and loving the atmosphere already!
36 Weeks & Caroline's Baby Shower
Belly kiss! Caroline (34 wks) and I (36 wks) got together to celebrate Caroline's baby shower in Worcester. She's expecting her first baby (boy) on May 25th, and it has been really exciting to share this experience with such a special friend. Bienvenuto Bambino!
Parenting classes went well. Franko was super cute how intense he was with going. He even skipped out on Sox vs. Yankee tickets with his Dad to go to this class, I wasn't kidding! The guys learned how to swaddle, hold a baby, feed and change a diaper. They even used a fake 8 lb baby doll each to learn from, must of been hilarious to see. Us women/moms-to-be just sat in a seperate room and chatted about our feelings, fears, goals, birthing plans, etc. . Overall, it was a good experience and something I would recommend if you have any doubts/concerns. It's always nice to know that you're not floating in the new parenthood boat alone!
And speaking of new parents, MANY CONGRATS to the Ganchi Family who delivered baby Spencer Paulo Ganchi on April 8th at 8AM. So happy for you guys! Make sure to keep your notes handy because we're going to be looking to you for advice very soon! Yayyy for spring time and baby boys!
Monday, April 5, 2010
35 weeks & Easter
Happy Easter Everyone!
Here's Franko and I at my Mom's house on Easter Sunday --- NO, we didn't plan our outfits together either!
Moving onto 35 weeks this Tuesday! The belly has been really pocking-out these days, and the weight is just packing on (due to his fast growth). My feet got swollen for the first time yesterday (Easter) but that's probably because it was close to 80 degrees out and Franko and I walked 2 miles in the morning (up and down hills) and another .5 mile loop after Easter dinner. Needless to say, I like to stay on my feet! Next check-up apt is Apirl 12th at 5:15pm. We're also going to a parenting classes this Wednesday night in Wakefield, so I'll write again later letting you know how it goes.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
34 weeks
Welcome to the 2 month stretch! Crazy how we are in 34 weeks now, two more week we will be considered "full term" and the baby can pop-out any day after that. A little scary to think about.
All in all, everything is going well. Baby AJ has been having a lot of hiccups lately, which is super cute. I wonder what he looks like when he does them. I also went to another doctors appt (now moved to every two weeks) last night and his head is currently pointed down. Very good sign. My body is getting ready, but the baby still needs a few more weeks to cook!
I've also been experiencing a strong sense of tightness in my skin around the stomach at different parts of the day, they come on very randomly. My doctor said this could potentially be Braxton Hicks Contractions. These contractions are basically warming up the uterus for labor, and can start as early as six weeks. I could have had them as early as that and not have even noticed because I had more space for the baby then. Now that the baby is getting bigger, I can feel them more. I can feel everything actually! It could be a sign of early labor, too, so I should probably take it easy and slow down. I'm not worried, though. The tightness can get uncomfortable, but nothing I relax away. Laying down is the best method. Walking seems to be my #1 form of exercise now-a-days, and I highly recommend others once you cross over into the motherhood/prego land.
Franko and I are taking a new Momma and new Dadda class next Wednesday night at 7pm. Its through our hospital. They teach you more on how to cope as a parent, such as going without sleep, how to support each other as a couple, how to handle a fussy baby, etc. . I originally wasn't into classes, but Franko wanted to do something and I saw this as a happy medium. If my husband is willing to learn why I will be cranky 24/7 after the baby is born, then by all means, let's do it. We're also going to take a tour of the hospital that following Sunday, too. Nursery is slowly coming along. Have so many cute little outfits and diapers to organize!!
All in all, everything is going well. Baby AJ has been having a lot of hiccups lately, which is super cute. I wonder what he looks like when he does them. I also went to another doctors appt (now moved to every two weeks) last night and his head is currently pointed down. Very good sign. My body is getting ready, but the baby still needs a few more weeks to cook!
I've also been experiencing a strong sense of tightness in my skin around the stomach at different parts of the day, they come on very randomly. My doctor said this could potentially be Braxton Hicks Contractions. These contractions are basically warming up the uterus for labor, and can start as early as six weeks. I could have had them as early as that and not have even noticed because I had more space for the baby then. Now that the baby is getting bigger, I can feel them more. I can feel everything actually! It could be a sign of early labor, too, so I should probably take it easy and slow down. I'm not worried, though. The tightness can get uncomfortable, but nothing I relax away. Laying down is the best method. Walking seems to be my #1 form of exercise now-a-days, and I highly recommend others once you cross over into the motherhood/prego land.
Franko and I are taking a new Momma and new Dadda class next Wednesday night at 7pm. Its through our hospital. They teach you more on how to cope as a parent, such as going without sleep, how to support each other as a couple, how to handle a fussy baby, etc. . I originally wasn't into classes, but Franko wanted to do something and I saw this as a happy medium. If my husband is willing to learn why I will be cranky 24/7 after the baby is born, then by all means, let's do it. We're also going to take a tour of the hospital that following Sunday, too. Nursery is slowly coming along. Have so many cute little outfits and diapers to organize!!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Baby Shower 3.21.10
Thanks everyone for coming! We had such a great time! Baby AJ is going to love all of his new goodies and clothes, especially the handmade onesies and bibs!! Love you all.
Monday, March 15, 2010
32 weeks
Side belly shot of 32 weeks! Gained a whopping 7 lbs since 30 weeks --- yikes! But, as you can see, Baby AJ is growing out more and sucking in all that weight. He's currently up to 4 lbs.
We're all doing well, and the baby loves to squirm and flip-flop more, meaning space in there is getting tighter. There isn't as much kicking, but I know when he's left to right, up and down. Eventually, up and down will become a more permanent position for him. My stomach has also been feeling rock-hard lately, and trust me, its not from any crunches!
Doctor visits are now bumped up to every 2 weeks, then at 36 weeks will be moved again to every week. My next appt is Monday, March 29th at 5:10 pm. We're getting close --- 56 days give or take!
Third trimester is just flying by --- I can't believe I'm writing about being 32 weeks! It's crazy! Getting excited about our baby shower at the Penney's house on Sunday, March 21st and another at my Mom's house sometime in April. Hope to see everyone. Great times ahead :)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
30 weeks
We're all chugging along into 30 weeks!
Still (very much) growing outwards, and the baby is up to 3 lbs now which can get heavy/tiring some days. . . but otherwise I'm holding up well. Sleeping can be a struggle (can't move and turn as easily) and lower back pain is still around, but my legs cramps have luckily gone away a bit. I went to a prenatal yoga class on Sunday and the instructor asked if anyone was getting leg cramps (read my mind!) and suggested eating more calcium and potassium. Normally, I'm not a huge dairy fan (except ice cream!) but I've been more cautious this week trying to get as much as possible --- yogurt on fruit has been my #1 go-to, cottage cheese, pasteurized goat cheese in egg whites, melted swiss cheese on spinach wraps and OJ with calcium in it. It's been helping, and surprisingly yummy!
Here is what babycenter.com reports on the little guy this week. . . almost there, another 10 more weeks to go and counting!!!. . .
"Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from his face."
And a nice confirmation/reminder for Momma. . . of course, this came in the 30 wk update, not in the 28 wk update when I needed it!
"Remember those mood swings you had earlier in pregnancy? The combination of uncomfortable symptoms and hormonal changes can result in a return of those emotional ups and downs. It's normal to worry about what your labor will be like or whether you'll be a good parent. But if you can't shake the blues or feel increasingly irritable or agitated, talk to your doctor or midwife."
Picture of 30 week belly coming soon! We've been busy painting & moving bedrooms (our room went downstairs and the baby's nursery is in our old bedroom), and the camera has been moved a million times. . . so who knows where it is now! And no silly belly faces this time, promise!
Still (very much) growing outwards, and the baby is up to 3 lbs now which can get heavy/tiring some days. . . but otherwise I'm holding up well. Sleeping can be a struggle (can't move and turn as easily) and lower back pain is still around, but my legs cramps have luckily gone away a bit. I went to a prenatal yoga class on Sunday and the instructor asked if anyone was getting leg cramps (read my mind!) and suggested eating more calcium and potassium. Normally, I'm not a huge dairy fan (except ice cream!) but I've been more cautious this week trying to get as much as possible --- yogurt on fruit has been my #1 go-to, cottage cheese, pasteurized goat cheese in egg whites, melted swiss cheese on spinach wraps and OJ with calcium in it. It's been helping, and surprisingly yummy!
Here is what babycenter.com reports on the little guy this week. . . almost there, another 10 more weeks to go and counting!!!. . .
"Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from his face."
And a nice confirmation/reminder for Momma. . . of course, this came in the 30 wk update, not in the 28 wk update when I needed it!
"Remember those mood swings you had earlier in pregnancy? The combination of uncomfortable symptoms and hormonal changes can result in a return of those emotional ups and downs. It's normal to worry about what your labor will be like or whether you'll be a good parent. But if you can't shake the blues or feel increasingly irritable or agitated, talk to your doctor or midwife."
Picture of 30 week belly coming soon! We've been busy painting & moving bedrooms (our room went downstairs and the baby's nursery is in our old bedroom), and the camera has been moved a million times. . . so who knows where it is now! And no silly belly faces this time, promise!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Funny Belly!
A little scary but funny!
My belly button sticks out like a nose, so Frank thought it would be a good idea to draw a smiley face :)
WARNING: PLEASE DO NOT ZOOM!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
28 weeks = Hello 3rd Trimester!
We're here, the last three months of pregnancy! I can't believe it!
Some physical changes this month have been more back pain (upper and lower) and cramped legs. They hurt especially at night. Frank has been such a trooper, giving me nightly rubs and helping me feel comfortable. Yoga and hot baths definitely help, but the pain always manages to sneak its way back. It makes sense with the additional weight I'm carrying everyday --- now up to 142 pounds --- and understand these symptoms are common. My energy level is fading a bit and I'm finding myself falling asleep on the couch every night while Frank and I watch LOST (we're at the beginning of Season 2 and each episode is 40+ minutes long. . . so it back tracks us when I miss the end, sorry Hun!). It's just like first trimester again, you hit a wall of tiredness. The cool thing is that now I can feel him move around more, and it feels more human-like saying "let me out!", not as much as a fluttering. My stomach was bouncing up and down on its own just last night! And I can actually feel where his head is at different points in the day. It sometimes sticks out like a hard bump. The bigger I'm getting, the more I feel connected to the baby and its really something.
I'm going to be 100% honest (and I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining, so thank you for letting me be vulnerable and vent), my mental state has been more challenged these days more than my physical. I'm feeling more insecure about the labor pains, being a good mother and overall having a happy and healthy baby (scared s***less to be exact!!). The Baby Story on TLC doesn't help either! I need to stop watching that. I'm worried for the unknown, and my anxiety level is at its peak. Poor Frank has to deal with it too. . . I'm an absolute train-wreck and cry over anything and everything! I know I'm not alone, and I'm sure Frank is feeling the same anxiety as I am but he hides it better. But seriously. . . HORMONES!!!. . . can we please cool it down for just a day? Not to mention winter cabin-fever is starting to kick-in. I need a beach and sun shine asap! I'm trying to remain positive and not worry as much but its hard not to. My body and motherly-instincts will know what to do when the time comes, and I just need to trust myself more. I'm truly lucky for having Kiernan and Bridgette (kids I nanny for) in my life. They remind me everyday that I'm not a complete lost of hope. Just the other day Kiernan said to me, "I don't love everyone, Michelle, but I love you, Frank, Momma, Dadda and Bridgy!" Yes we made the list! It's funny how selective he is already at age three, smart little man! Our family doctor, Joan, also said it best to us when we first found out we were pregnant. . . "this is wellness, not illness, making a baby is what our bodies are built for" And she's 100% right. I just need to enjoy the ride, and stop being such a worry-wart :P
Our next appointment is Monday, Feb 22nd at 5:30pm. We should be getting results back from the glucose test that I did a few weeks ago. After this one, our appointments should be bumped from every 4 weeks to every 2 weeks. We're also have to start thinking about classes, a birthing plan and tour the hospital. Frank wants to take an infant/child CPR course, too. I believe there are no more ultrasounds unless its absolutely needed. So I guess next time we'll see baby AJ will be in the flesh!
Babycenter.com's report:
"By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world."
Some physical changes this month have been more back pain (upper and lower) and cramped legs. They hurt especially at night. Frank has been such a trooper, giving me nightly rubs and helping me feel comfortable. Yoga and hot baths definitely help, but the pain always manages to sneak its way back. It makes sense with the additional weight I'm carrying everyday --- now up to 142 pounds --- and understand these symptoms are common. My energy level is fading a bit and I'm finding myself falling asleep on the couch every night while Frank and I watch LOST (we're at the beginning of Season 2 and each episode is 40+ minutes long. . . so it back tracks us when I miss the end, sorry Hun!). It's just like first trimester again, you hit a wall of tiredness. The cool thing is that now I can feel him move around more, and it feels more human-like saying "let me out!", not as much as a fluttering. My stomach was bouncing up and down on its own just last night! And I can actually feel where his head is at different points in the day. It sometimes sticks out like a hard bump. The bigger I'm getting, the more I feel connected to the baby and its really something.
I'm going to be 100% honest (and I don't mean to sound like I'm complaining, so thank you for letting me be vulnerable and vent), my mental state has been more challenged these days more than my physical. I'm feeling more insecure about the labor pains, being a good mother and overall having a happy and healthy baby (scared s***less to be exact!!). The Baby Story on TLC doesn't help either! I need to stop watching that. I'm worried for the unknown, and my anxiety level is at its peak. Poor Frank has to deal with it too. . . I'm an absolute train-wreck and cry over anything and everything! I know I'm not alone, and I'm sure Frank is feeling the same anxiety as I am but he hides it better. But seriously. . . HORMONES!!!. . . can we please cool it down for just a day? Not to mention winter cabin-fever is starting to kick-in. I need a beach and sun shine asap! I'm trying to remain positive and not worry as much but its hard not to. My body and motherly-instincts will know what to do when the time comes, and I just need to trust myself more. I'm truly lucky for having Kiernan and Bridgette (kids I nanny for) in my life. They remind me everyday that I'm not a complete lost of hope. Just the other day Kiernan said to me, "I don't love everyone, Michelle, but I love you, Frank, Momma, Dadda and Bridgy!" Yes we made the list! It's funny how selective he is already at age three, smart little man! Our family doctor, Joan, also said it best to us when we first found out we were pregnant. . . "this is wellness, not illness, making a baby is what our bodies are built for" And she's 100% right. I just need to enjoy the ride, and stop being such a worry-wart :P
Our next appointment is Monday, Feb 22nd at 5:30pm. We should be getting results back from the glucose test that I did a few weeks ago. After this one, our appointments should be bumped from every 4 weeks to every 2 weeks. We're also have to start thinking about classes, a birthing plan and tour the hospital. Frank wants to take an infant/child CPR course, too. I believe there are no more ultrasounds unless its absolutely needed. So I guess next time we'll see baby AJ will be in the flesh!
Babycenter.com's report:
"By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world."
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
25 weeks
25 weeks and counting! Went to another check-up appt last night and met with our doc. Everything is looking great and growing steadily. The baby weights in 1.5 pounds and my weight has been staying in/around 138 pounds. Our fruit size this week is a rutabaga, which I have absolutely no idea what that is!? If anyone knows, then please tell me! Baby AJ is developing baby fat (thank goodness, please take some from Momma!) and is looking more and more like a newborn. Wrinkled skin is becoming smoother and he's also growing hair.
This week I also had to take a glucose test. Went to MW hospital to take it and they make you drink a pint of an unknown orange substance --- yummy (sarcasm). It didn't really taste too bad actually, its was more like flavored sugar water. I had to stay in the hospital for an hour while this "liquid" made its way through my system. During my time at the hospital, I found out more info about childbirth classes and hospital tours. It was crazy being in the labor/delivery area. I wasn't able to see much because this area is tightly restricted but I was def thinking over and over "we're going to be here in 3 month". . . made it somewhat freaky and exciting. The classes sound like they truly prepare you for the actual day, and I'm anxious to get started. We'll probably sign up for an April weekend, all day session. Get it done in one sitting. Hospital tours happen 2-3 weeks before your actual due date, so that'll have to wait until early May.
As for any peculiar symptoms, none this week. The two that I have mentioned previously (bad taste in mouth and food getting stuck) have somewhat disappeared. Could have been just a temporary thing. Either way, I'm happy to see them gone. The most interesting part is that our doctor did mention that my uterus is now above my belly button which is why I could have felt that discomfort. Makes total sense. And I can feel baby AJ now more than ever. He's quiet the mover and doesn't like to slow-down. The other night he woke me while I was sleeping for his aggressive kicks. They have been so strong that my entire stomach moves up and down, along with my belly button (that is now 85% sticking out). It's like he's saying "Hello, pay attention to me!!" or "LET ME OUT!!"
Next appt will be at 28 weeks (Feb 22nd at 5:20pm), but I'll write more before then! Enjoy my new belly picture --- it's a goody!
This week I also had to take a glucose test. Went to MW hospital to take it and they make you drink a pint of an unknown orange substance --- yummy (sarcasm). It didn't really taste too bad actually, its was more like flavored sugar water. I had to stay in the hospital for an hour while this "liquid" made its way through my system. During my time at the hospital, I found out more info about childbirth classes and hospital tours. It was crazy being in the labor/delivery area. I wasn't able to see much because this area is tightly restricted but I was def thinking over and over "we're going to be here in 3 month". . . made it somewhat freaky and exciting. The classes sound like they truly prepare you for the actual day, and I'm anxious to get started. We'll probably sign up for an April weekend, all day session. Get it done in one sitting. Hospital tours happen 2-3 weeks before your actual due date, so that'll have to wait until early May.
As for any peculiar symptoms, none this week. The two that I have mentioned previously (bad taste in mouth and food getting stuck) have somewhat disappeared. Could have been just a temporary thing. Either way, I'm happy to see them gone. The most interesting part is that our doctor did mention that my uterus is now above my belly button which is why I could have felt that discomfort. Makes total sense. And I can feel baby AJ now more than ever. He's quiet the mover and doesn't like to slow-down. The other night he woke me while I was sleeping for his aggressive kicks. They have been so strong that my entire stomach moves up and down, along with my belly button (that is now 85% sticking out). It's like he's saying "Hello, pay attention to me!!" or "LET ME OUT!!"
Next appt will be at 28 weeks (Feb 22nd at 5:20pm), but I'll write more before then! Enjoy my new belly picture --- it's a goody!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
23 weeks
Feeling pretty good and currently in 23 weeks. Can't believe I'll be moving into 3rd trimester in another 3-4 weeks at 26/27weeks. Crazy!
Two most recent body-pregnancy changes. . . 1.) having a bad taste in my mouth, metallic/irony taste, after I eat that won't go away (online say its common due to hormones) and 2.) feeling my food getting stuck in my throat after I eat. So pretty much after a meal I'm a total mess! But, seriously it makes me want to eat more, hoping this will help make them both go away because when I'm eating I don't notice it. Or chew gum constantly. Frank looked up the food-throat issue online and found that this is also common because your stomach and other organs are pushing up since the baby is getting bigger and taking up more space. Makes sense, but as you can imagine rather frustrating! The other night I had to sit up in bed for 30 minutes because that stuck feeling wouldn't go away, and I was relying on gravity to help me out. It worked eventually. Funny how these "common" symptoms aren't documented as much as nausea, cravings, swollen feet, etc. . because you think they would be. But, thank goodness for other pregnant women blogs and baby websites, honestly. It truly makes me feel like I'm not the only wacko-prego around. Morning sickness, never even remotely existed, but having a crazy iron-taste in my mouth, RIGHT HERE! Why do I get the weird ones!?
Anyhooo. . . here is babycenter.com weekly report. . .
"Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With his sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that he's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango --- my favorite fruit!!!), you may be able to see him squirm underneath your clothes (has not happened to us yet, but one time we did feel the top of AJ's head poke out on my left side). Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing him for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze him when he hears them outside the womb."
I definitely haven't been sitting still, either with regular exercises or lots of walking, so I already know this baby is going to be a total mover when he comes out. I can picture it now, my child is going to be like that baby commercial where the baby go absolutely insane running around the house in his walker while playing a crazy-circus song in the back ground. Great! Its also fun with the kids I nanny for because Kiernan and Bridgy listen to music 24/7 and LOVE to sing and dance. Naturally, I jump in too! I'm sure baby AJ is saying "Please, Momma, that's enough! No more singing. . . or I'll kick!" Awww our special mother-child bond :)
RIP Papa Spidle 1.08.10
We love you and say hello to Nana S and Dad for us. . . our angels <3
Two most recent body-pregnancy changes. . . 1.) having a bad taste in my mouth, metallic/irony taste, after I eat that won't go away (online say its common due to hormones) and 2.) feeling my food getting stuck in my throat after I eat. So pretty much after a meal I'm a total mess! But, seriously it makes me want to eat more, hoping this will help make them both go away because when I'm eating I don't notice it. Or chew gum constantly. Frank looked up the food-throat issue online and found that this is also common because your stomach and other organs are pushing up since the baby is getting bigger and taking up more space. Makes sense, but as you can imagine rather frustrating! The other night I had to sit up in bed for 30 minutes because that stuck feeling wouldn't go away, and I was relying on gravity to help me out. It worked eventually. Funny how these "common" symptoms aren't documented as much as nausea, cravings, swollen feet, etc. . because you think they would be. But, thank goodness for other pregnant women blogs and baby websites, honestly. It truly makes me feel like I'm not the only wacko-prego around. Morning sickness, never even remotely existed, but having a crazy iron-taste in my mouth, RIGHT HERE! Why do I get the weird ones!?
Anyhooo. . . here is babycenter.com weekly report. . .
"Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With his sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that he's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango --- my favorite fruit!!!), you may be able to see him squirm underneath your clothes (has not happened to us yet, but one time we did feel the top of AJ's head poke out on my left side). Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing him for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze him when he hears them outside the womb."
I definitely haven't been sitting still, either with regular exercises or lots of walking, so I already know this baby is going to be a total mover when he comes out. I can picture it now, my child is going to be like that baby commercial where the baby go absolutely insane running around the house in his walker while playing a crazy-circus song in the back ground. Great! Its also fun with the kids I nanny for because Kiernan and Bridgy listen to music 24/7 and LOVE to sing and dance. Naturally, I jump in too! I'm sure baby AJ is saying "Please, Momma, that's enough! No more singing. . . or I'll kick!" Awww our special mother-child bond :)
RIP Papa Spidle 1.08.10
We love you and say hello to Nana S and Dad for us. . . our angels <3
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
New Years/Annv Weekend & 22 weeks
Welcome 2010! We had a nice quiet weekend up north at the lake house, enjoying some family time with the Penney's :)
Jan 2nd was also our first anniversary as a married couple, and had a fun day exploring North Conway. Can't believe a year has already passed us, many more happy & great years to come!
Today, I'm 22 weeks and nothing too much has changed, but that I'm def a lot more rounder and carrying low. The baby bump is becoming a hand magnet, which I don't mind at all, so if you see me don't be shy and give baby AJ a rub and hello! The baby can hear you, so certainly introduce yourself, too! But back to the size difference. . . ever since New Years Day, my belly is poking out (along with my belly button!) and its starting to get harder bending over like when I tie my shoes, put boots on, etc.. Not to mention the baby is 100% sitting on my blader, which is a lot of added pressure. Isn't fun especially in the morning. One morning, I did wake to a HUGE, hard bump on the left side of my stomach while I was laying on my back. . . it must of been the baby's head! It was amazing. Frank couldn't believe it either. I've heard towards the end of pregnancy you can actually see hands and feet poking out. That'll be interesting to experience.
Here is what babycenter.come writes this week:
"At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily."
Next check-up appt is Jan 25th. More baby info to come!
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