40 Weeks! Baby Owen is Here!!!

Pumpkin (now officially Owen Christopher Mayk) arrived on October 8, 2014 at 7:21 am. After reading books, taking labor and delivery classes, etc. I thought I had a good idea of what labor would be like, but it was completely different than I thought it would be.

I called the doctor on Tuesday (October 7th) afternoon because something didn't feel right and I was worried. My stomach was very hard to touch and I didn't think the baby was moving as much as he normally did. I was also experiencing a little bleeding. I thought they would just tell me these were normal signs labor was beginning or maybe have me come into the office to check baby's heartbeat, but they told me to go to the hospital to be check out instead. I left work and met Rich at home. We grabbed our bags just in case we needed to stay at the hospital, but I was pretty sure I would be coming home that evening.

When we got there, things started happening really fast. I got hooked up to the contraction monitor and was told I was having contractions (although not very strong) about 4 minutes apart. The doctor came in and asked if I was ready to have a baby. He said they would get my IV going, break my water to get my body to naturally begin labor and he expected I would have the baby around midnight. A few hours later they started pitocin through my IV to speed up the process. The contractions were so strong… I went from saying I would wait as long as possible to get my epidural to begging for it. Getting the epidural was not as bad as I thought it would be and I was a much happier girl once I had it. That's when things started to go downhill…. the doctor came in and told me that every time I was having a contraction the baby's heart rate was dropping which is a sign that the placenta is deteriorating or the cord could be wrapped around the baby's neck and if things didn't improve I would have to have a c-section. I was so upset and scared. I was supposed to be trying to sleep to rest up for potentially pushing but I couldn't stop looking at the monitor and praying that the baby's heart rate would stop going down. They lowered the amount of pitocin they were giving me because the baby wasn't handling it well and after about an hour things started looking better. We were back on track for a natural delivery! That's when I started feeling all of my contractions again. They were so intense. The nurses kept trying to up the dosage of meds coming through the epidural and nothing was working. Finally they had the anesthesiologist come back and she discovered that the tube in my back had moved out of place. She had to do a whole new epidural. After that I was a happy girl again… for a while. And then it stopped working again! This time they couldn't figure out why it wasn't working. I couldn't feel everything like I had before but I was still feeling more than I should and it was like that for the rest of the delivery. Finally at 5:30 am I was fully dilated and ready to push. The doctor estimated it would take about 30 minutes. However, I ended up pushing for 2 hours! I had never really thought about the pushing part of delivery. I guess I always assumed it was a few pushes and the baby would be out. This was not the case! I was so exhausted and getting more and more discouraged after every round of pushing resulting in no baby. Then we got to a point where the baby was no longer handling it well. The doctor told me if I didn't get the baby out in the new few pushes they would have to push him back in and do a c-section because his heart rate was dropping. That was all the motivation I needed…. he finally came out within the next few pushes. I always thought I would be able to hold my baby right away after delivery… but my body was in so mush shock after I couldn't. There was no way… I was shaking so much and still in pain...Rich just had to hold him next to me so I could see him.

They say you forget labor…. and I sure hope it's true. Owen sure was worth it… I just hope next time things are a little easier. I am very thankful that I didn't need to have a c-section so that I could bring my baby home from the hospital sooner and recover faster.

Family of THREE!!!

Don't forget Rex… Family of three plus a dog :)

First picture with my SON!

Nana holding Owen.

Papa holding Owen.

First family photo.

Owen in his hospital bed.

Owen in his going home outfit. I wish I would have gotten a better picture of it before I put him in the car seat. I will have to make sure I get him in it again before he outgrows it and get a picture. Right now it's in the laundry because he already peed on it!

Owen and his Daddy… ready to go home!

Owen in the car on the way home. He was wide awake and quiet the entire time. I think he likes riding in the car,

Owen in his home for the first time.

Introducing Owen to Rex. Rex has pretty much left the baby alone since we've been home. I can tell Rex is upset that we pay this new little person so much attention. Things are definitely different in our house now and Rex doesn't get as much attention :(

Owen asleep in his rock-in-play tonight. He actually slept long enough for me to write this blog and eat dinner :)

Until next time,

Tressa

Week 39 Bumpdate

How far along: 39 Weeks!!! Officially full-term!

Baby size: 19-22 in / 7 lbs

Maternity clothes: On the weekends I've been wearing leggings and yoga pants which are so comfy  and warm (it's starting to get chilly). On work days I have to either wear a dress and be cold or wear jeans and be uncomfortable. Luckily, I only have 4 more days of work before maternity leave begins (less if the baby comes sooner). I plan on dressing like a bum in leggings and yoga pants all the time when I'm on maternity leave :)

Sleep: I have good nights and bad nights. Still getting sick some nights.

Stretch Marks: Still don't see any. I wonder if some will appear after I give birth.

Movement: Pumpkin is getting a little cramped in there. Sometimes when he tries to stretch out it hurts!

Best moment this week: Rich's co-workers showered him with gifts this week! Pumpkin is going to be one spoiled little boy! Also, we went to Scalini's  tonight where I had the eggplant parmesean in hopes of inducing labor. It's supposed to work within 48 hours… we'll see if it worked! 

Looking forward to: Seeing and holding my baby for the first time… it can happen any time now. I'm also excited to see Rich hold his son!

Food cravings: Gatorade and crushed ice

Anything making you sick: Definitely have been getting sick, but don't know what causes it. 

Labor signs: No contractions yet, but I've had other symptoms that make me think that my body is getting ready for it. If I don't have the baby before my doctor's appointment friday morning they will schedule an induction for the following week.

What I miss: My regular clothes and being comfortable.

Nursery: We put his name up on the wall now. The room is off-limits if we get any visitors before he's born.

Belly button in or out: Definitely an outtie!

Wedding rings on or off: On

What's going on with baby: His brain is still developing at a rapid pace and will continue to develop at a rapid pace for the first 3 years of his life. 

Until next time…

Tressa

Week 38 Bumpdate

How far along: 38 weeks! It can happen anytime now, which is both exciting and terrifying at the same time. I'm getting a little nervous about labor.

Baby size: 19-22 inches, 6.5 lbs

Maternity clothes: Options are getting limited as I get bigger/it gets chilly.  I feel like I am wearing the same things all the time and constantly doing laundry.

Sleep: I am updating this blog at 3:00 am… so not sleeping well. 

Stretch marks: None

Gender: Boy

Movement: It's less kick-like movements now and more like the baby is stretching out when he moves. I like to poke his little feet when I feel them pressing against my side. I wonder what he thinks about that!

Best moment this week: It was kind of a boring week around here… I guess winning a little money at bunco for being the biggest loser was the highlight of my week.

Looking forward to: 13 weeks of maternity leave to spend with my baby… Only 10 days left of work before my leave begins (less if I have the baby before my due date). Also, my sister and her family are coming to visit for a few weeks while I am on leave! It's going to be a very exciting fall.

Food cravings: Not really anything this week.

Anything making you sick: Feeling nauseous a lot… not sure if anything in particular is causing it.

Labor signs: Not really any signs… I have a feeling I have a while left.

What I miss: Being able to sleep through the night. I guess I better get used to no sleep though… I'm sure a newborn isn't going to help the situation.

Nursery: Still ready and waiting.

Belly button in or out: Outtie

Wedding rings on or off: On

Mood: I hate not knowing how much time I have left, how my labor will go etc. I'm a planner… but this is something that can't really be planned and it drives me crazy. 

What's going on with baby: Baby should be shedding the white substance covering his skin called vernix caseosa and packing on some weight. He's pretty much completely cooked and ready to be born!

Until next time…

Tressa

Week 37 Bumpdate

How far along: 37 weeks! Less than 3 weeks to go! Sorry for the repeat outfit, but I ran out of maternity clothes that I haven't worn in previous weekly photos.

Baby size: 19-22 in / 6.5 lbs (although the doctor estimated at my last appointment that Pumpkin is 5.5 - 6 pounds right now)

Maternity clothes: Hopefully this baby comes before it gets too chilly. I don't have a lot of cold weather maternity clothes and I don't plan on buying any for this pregnancy!

Sleep: I've been sleeping a little better than I had in previous weeks... I think the baby has dropped a little bit, giving my stomach a little more room. However, my  bladder has less room so the bathroom trips have increased.

Stretch marks: None

Gender: Boy

Movement: He's been moving a lot and his moves are getting more powerful.

Best moment this week: My final baby shower (thrown by co-workers) was the highlight of my week. I will do another post on it. Also, starting my new job, which I love so far and getting my final haircut before baby comes.

Looking forward to: I am so looking forward to holding my baby! I can't believe how close I am now! Soon we will find out what he looks like and get to know his personality! And I can't wait to introduce him to people using his real NAME!

Food cravings: I had a big craving for apple cider tonight. I am in such a festive fall mood! I stopped on the way home from work and bought some cider, harvest blend (candy corn is my weakness every fall) and several pumpkin scented candles.

Anything making you sick: I just have to watch portions. If I eat too much I feel sick. It's better if I eat small servings several times a day.

Labor signs: I think I "dropped" and I had a few more Braxton Hicks contractions this week.

What I miss: Rich changed the water and cleaned the hot tub this weekend... so it's all ready to go when I am able to get in! I also miss margaritas. I want to get a nice big frozen margarita in a few weeks!

Nursery: I can't wait to change diapers on the changing table (yes that's right... I can't wait to change diapers) and rock Pumpkin to sleep in the chair!

Belly button in or out: Outtie

Wedding rings on or off: On

Mood: Excited! And a little nervous about labor... I hope everything goes smoothly.

What's going on with baby: Baby should be packing on pounds and practicing inhaling, exhaling, sucking, gripping and blinking. He's also making his first poop (meconium) for the first diaper change.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 36 Bumpdate

How far along: 36 weeks! Only 4 weeks to go (although the doctor informed me at my last appointment that many first pregnancies go past their due date). 

Baby size: 19-22 inches / a whopping 6 lbs

Maternity clothes: I hemmed a pair of the maternity yoga pants I ordered from Old Navy that were WAY too long. I found a how to hem pants guide online and followed it. They look great. I am so proud of myself!

Sleep: I usually don't have trouble initially falling asleep, but then I wake up sick to my stomach about an hour into sleeping. Then I have to sit up for a while and watch TV. 

Stretch marks: None

Gender: Boy

Movement: He definitely has sleep/wake cycles. There are times where I don't feel movement for a while and then other times he moves like crazy. 

Best moment this week: We did some registry completion this week and got everything we think we absolutely need (and some nice to have things). I also went to a consignment sale on Saturday and got a few more clothing items. We didn't have many newborn sized things so I thought I would pick up a few more in case he's a small baby. I also got a few cute things in bigger sizes. My best find was a  little newborn sized pumpkin halloween outfit. It was a steal at $3!

Looking forward to: My work baby shower this week. My co-workers have been pretty tight-lipped about the shower so I'm excited to see what they've been planning :) Also, I start my new job TOMORROW. My desk is all packed up and ready to make the move 3 floors down. I'm excited about this new opportunity and about all the new people I'm going to be working with.

Food cravings: Gatorade.... Gatorade over crushed ice is even better!

Anything making you sick: No food/drink in particular

Labor signs: I think I experienced my first Braxton Hicks contractions on Saturday. If labor is anything like that... I'm definitely glad I've decided to go the epidural route. 

What I miss: Having a glass on wine in the hot tub! It won't be too long now before I can do that again. 

Nursery: It's ready and waiting for it's little tenant!

Belly button in or out: I guess it's out now. I've had several people comment on how I have an outtie (from being able to see it through my shirt). I guess there's no more denying it now.

Wedding rings on or off: On

Mood: Feeling like the weeks are going by too slowly! Hopefully my new job will keep me busy and make the time go by faster.

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin should be gaining about an ounce a day at this point. I gained 2 more pounds (over 2 weeks) at this weeks doctor's appointment, bringing my total weight gain to 21 pounds. So I think I am on target to be at the lower end of the recommended weight gain range (25-35).  Baby should also be shedding his downy hair and the waxy substance (vernix caseosa) that has been protecting his skin. Baby is still pre-term at 36 weeks, but at the end of this week (37 weeks) will be considered early-term and at 39 weeks will be considered full-term.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 35 Bumpdate

How far along: 35 Weeks! Less than 5 weeks to go (my due date is one month from this Thursday!!!!)

Baby size: 20 inches/ 5.5 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Sick of them.

Sleep: Not sleeping well. I feel sick most nights when I lay down and sometimes I actually get sick. I have to sit up to feel okay... and I can't sleep like that. Let's just say I've been watching a lot of Friends on Nick at Nite and playing a lot of Mexican Train Dominoes on my Kindle.

Stretch Marks: I still don't think I have any.

Gender: Boy

Movement: He's still moving a lot, which I love. I think I am going to miss this part of being pregnant. I think he is still in the same position he was at my last doctor appointment (head down, spine going up my right side) because I still feel movements in all the same places. We'll find out at our 36 week appointment on Thursday.

Best moment this week: Our trip to North Carolina. See my blog post here.

Looking forward to: Our 36 week doctor's appointment on Thursday. I made it for late in the afternoon and plan to just go home and relax after the appointment (instead of going back to work). Also, I am going to check out a baby consignment sale this weekend and celebrate my brother and his girlfriend's birthdays with the family on Sunday.

Food cravings: Anything icy

Anything making you sick: Laying down

Labor signs: None this week. I don't think I've had any Braxton Hicks yet. If I have, they haven't been strong enough for me to feel and realize they are contractions. I also don't think that baby has dropped yet... but I wonder if I will be able to feel that and know or if that's something the doctor will have to tell me has happened.

What I miss: Being able to put my shoes and socks on myself.

Nursery: It's complete. See my blog post here.

Belly button in or out: This might sound weird... but sometimes it's in and sometimes it's out. I think it might depend on how the baby is positioned? If I lean over it's out.

Wedding rings on or off: On... I haven't experienced any swelling in my feet or hands yet.

Mood: Anxiously awaiting and also trying to make sure we didn't forget to do anything to prepare for Pumpkin's arrival.

What's going on with baby: Baby's kidneys should be fully developed at this point and his liver should be able to process some waste. Most of his basic physical development is complete and from this point on he should be packing on fat. His body consists of about 15% fat right now and that number should double to 30% before birth.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 34 Bumpdate

How far along: 34 weeks! Less than 6 weeks until we meet our little Pumpkin!

Baby size: 19-22 inches / 4.9 pounds (Using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: I was trying not to buy anymore maternity clothes for the short amount of time I have left. However, I've been trying to figure out what to wear while I am recovering at the hospital. I usually wear leggings around the house but I think they might be too tight with all the recovery stuff I might also be wearing, so I ordered 2 pairs of maternity yoga pants from Old Navy. I think I will be able to wear them for a few months after coming home as well until my regular clothes fit again. I also got a new comfy maternity t-shirt at Target last week... it was on clearance and I think it might be the most comfortable t-shirt I've ever owned.

Sleep: Still getting up a lot to go to the bathroom, but able to get back to sleep most nights. I've been having crazy pregnancy dreams... this week I dreamed that Pumpkin was born with a beard. 

Stretch marks: None

Gender: Boy

Movement: My little Pumpkin has been moving up a storm. At my 34 appointment the doctor felt and said he is head down and his back is going up my right side. I get a lot of movement on the right side... so now I think that might be his elbows jabbing me.

Best moment this week: Definitely the 3 day weekend we had for Labor Day! On Saturday we took our last class (Baby Essentials) where we learned how to swaddle, bath, burp, diaper the baby etc. and then watched football (Gooooooo Dawgs!!!). On Sunday we celebrated Rex's birthday by taking him to the lake and went to Verde for dinner, and on Monday we ran some errands and Rich's parents brought us BBQ for dinner. We also installed the car seat this weekend.....

We put the stuffed elephant in the car seat in order to adjust the mirror on the back of the seat so I could see the baby's face.

Looking forward to: This weekend!!!! This week is a 3 day work week for Rich and me. Bright and early Friday morning we are going to head up to Asheville and tour the Biltmore Estate. Then we will head over to the Highlands Friday evening where we have a dinner reservation at a nice Italian restaurant. On Saturday my dear friend from college and Ernst and Young is getting married in the Highlands and then we will head home on Sunday. This is our last trip before we become parents!

Food cravings: Crushed ice or anything frozen and icy. I tried the Arnold Palmer Coolatta from Dunkin Donuts this weekend and it was "the best thing since sliced bread!!!"

Anything making you sick: I've been getting a lot of acid reflex, especially at night. I don't think it's being caused by any food in particular. The doctor said acid reflex is here to stay until I have the baby.

Labor signs: None this week... thank goodness :)

What I miss: Turkey sandwiches... pretty soon I will be able to have one!

Nursery: My dad brought the bookcase over yesterday and I spent some time organizing the shelves. I think the room is pretty much done. I will do a blog post on the nursery sometime this week. Here's a sneak peek of the bookcase....

My dad wrote a message for Pumpkin on the bottom of the bookcase: "To Pumpkin and all who follow. A little something to remember me (Pa Pa) by. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers for the rest of your life. Love Pa Pa."

Belly button in or out: Surprisingly still in.

Wedding ring on or off: Still on... it's been giving me a rash the last few weeks. I don't know if pregnancy has changed my skin composition or what.

Mood: Definitely nesting. The cleaning people came today and did their detailed clean. Also, I organized the hall closet last week and the laundry room this weekend. I've been washing baby clothes, organizing baby items and taking an inventory of the final things I need to pick up before he comes. 

Workouts: I'm doing away with this section because I no longer have anything to put here :(  Despite not really working out, I only gained 1 pound at my last doctor appointment, bringing my total weight gain to 19 pounds. They say you should gain 25 to 35 pounds for a healthy pregnancy. I'm hoping to keep the weight gain to the lower end of the range.

What's going on with baby: Baby can now recognize and react to familiar songs. If you sing or play a song for him a lot now, it may soothe him after birth (I'm going to try it!). He is also urinating a pint a day.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 33 Bumpdate

How far along: 33 weeks! Less than 7 (but hopefully more than 4) weeks to go!!!

Baby Size: 19 inches / 4.5 pounds (Using the What to Expect App)

Maternity Clothes: I have reached the point where my maternity pants are fitting too tight. Looks like it's going to be all dresses for the duration of the pregnancy. Hopefully it will still be warm enough in late September/early October for me to be warm enough in them.

Sleep: I've been sleeping pretty well. Still going to the bathroom a few times a night, but able to fall right back asleep after my bathroom trips.

Stretch marks: Still none

Gender: Boy

Movement: He's gotten bigger and has less space, so his movements feel more powerful now. 

Best moment this week: I hosted bunco at my house this week, which I was stressed out about (getting the house clean, cooking etc.) but it ended up being really fun and I won some money! Also, keeping the house clean has been something that's been harder for me to do lately. I just haven't had as much "free time" and when I do, I don't have the energy for it. As a result, I feel like our house is falling apart. Today we hired some cleaning people to clean our home every 2 weeks (they are going to start on Friday!). I'm really excited about having a clean home and having more time to get to other projects. Also, it's going to be really nice not having to worry about it when the baby comes.

Looking forward to: Our "Baby Essentials" class this Saturday. This is the last class we are taking... and I think we saved the best for last. We are going to learn how to hold the baby, how to swaddle, how to give the baby a bath etc. We had our infant CPR and safety class last weekend. Hopefully we will never have to perform CPR on our baby, but I feel better knowing how in the event we have to.

Food Cravings: Ice cold water

Anything making you sick: I have to eat lighter meals otherwise I feel sick from being too full.

Labor signs: I was going to wait until about 36 weeks to add this question, but it seemed fitting to go ahead and add it this week. On Monday I woke up with some bad cramping. I wasn't bleeding and I didn't think they were contractions because they weren't spaced apart, so I decided to still go into work. I talked to other women at work who have been through this before and they advised me to just call the doctor and make sure it's okay. So I called and they instructed me to go to the hospital right away. I went to the hospital  and felt kind of silly checking in, getting the hospital gown on etc. because I was sure it was nothing and I would be leaving shortly. However, they hooked me up to the contraction monitor and saw that I was having contractions spaced about a minute apart. They gave me an injection to stop the contractions and also determined that I was dehydrated and made me have an IV :( I had told Rich not to come earlier, but I'm glad he didn't listen to me and came anyways. The first shot didn't work so they gave me another one a few hours later. Then started talking about checking us in to stay for preterm labor... which was really scary. They said although its not ideal, the baby would be fine if he were born at this point. They were monitoring his heartbeat the whole time I was there and he was not distressed. Rich and I were though... we were supposed to have a fall baby, not a summer baby... we don't have our bags packed,  the car seat installed, maternity leave forms filled out and approved etc. The nurse was going to try to give me a third (and final shot) before talking about options, but my heart rate was too fast (from the first 2 shots) so she had to wait for it to slow down. Luckily, by the time the doctor came around again my contractions had stopped and she decided to discharge me (after being there for 7 hours). She said to take it easier for the rest of the pregnancy... no more exercising only short walks when it's cool out and to come back if it happens again. Rich and I now have a lot to do this weekend... now that we realize this baby could be here any day now (hopefully not, but it could happen). I've read that if you go into labor anytime after 36 weeks they will let it progress and won't try to stop it. That is less than 3 weeks away for us!

What I miss: Not being pregnant. Rich now has to help me put my socks and shoes on and its hard to get comfortable on the couch when watching TV... my back constantly hurts.

Nursery: I will do an update on the nursery soon when we have the bookcase. Right now it looks messy.

Belly button in or out: In except for the top is flipped out a little.

Wedding rings on or off: On

Mood: Anxious.... hoping the next month flies by.

Workouts: I went on a long walk Friday and Sunday (which they think might be the cause of Mondays labor), so no more long walks :( I am just going to have to deal with gaining weight the rest of the pregnancy and try to just manage it by eating healthy. Rex is going to be sad... he likes our walks :(

What's going on with baby: This week baby's bones are hardening, he is going through major brain development and is continuing to practice his breathing, sucking and swallowing. His eyes are now open when he is awake.

Until next time....

Tressa

Week 32 Bumpdate

How far along: 32 Weeks! Less than 8 weeks to go!

Baby size: 19 inches / 3.9 pounds (estimate using the What to Expect App)

Maternity Clothes: I'm getting tired of this question... the same way I'm getting tired of wearing the same clothes all the time!

Sleep: I'm sleeping well. It seems like I've had to get up early a lot this week. I was able to sleep in for once on Sunday and it was AMAZING. I'm hoping to fit a few more of those kind of days in before baby arrives.

Stretch marks: None

Gender: It better be a boy since I have loads of baby boy clothes.

Movement: He's been moving a lot. I keep feeling kicks on my ribs and on my side ... so I hope that means his head is down in position for birth. I asked my doctor at my last appointment if they check and she said not until 36 weeks because he can still move out of position at this point. 

Best moment this week: My baby shower on Sunday thrown by some of my neighborhood friends. It was lovely and I really appreciate everyone coming to celebrate Baby Mayk. I've included a few pictures from the shower below.

Looking forward to: Starting my NEW JOB in 2 weeks! It's official... I have accepted a position in another department (same organization). I'm really excited about making this move...I think it's going to be really great. Oh and I'm excited for a new episode of ABC's The Bachelor in Paradise tonight :) It's a little guilty pleasure of mine (and Rich's)!

Food cravings: Lately I've been really hungry in the morning and not as hungry as the day goes on. So in the morning I want to (and often lately have been) forgo my healthy greek yogurt and fruit for something delicious like a Chick-fil-a chicken biscuit, sesame seed bagel with cream cheese or toast with peanut butter. After my naughty breakfast I feel guilty and try to eat better the rest of the day.

Anything making you sick: Not really. I've been getting heartburn and acid reflex at night but I don't think food is causing it.

Belly button in or out: Still in

Wedding rings on or off: On

Workouts: I've not been doing great in this area this week. I may have gone on a walk or 2. I am so tired when I get home from work I don't know if I could even make it around the block most nights. And then we had a full weekend which didn't allow any time for workouts. My weight gain seemed to slow down a little after that 6 pound "growth spurt" at my 30 week doctor visit. At my 32 week visit I was only up 1 pound from my 30 week visit, bringing the total weight gain to 19 pounds.

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin is probably in the head-down position now, getting ready for his descent. He is accumulating fat and skin is becoming less transparent. Also, he is practicing some of the skills he will use outside the womb such as sucking, swallowing, breathing and kicking.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 31 Bumpdate

I got photo-bombed by Rex this week :) Rex is just so excited that we are in the home stretch and can't wait to meet and protect his little brother in 9 weeks!

How far along: 31 weeks!!! Only 9 weeks to go!

Baby size: 18 inches, 3.2 pounds (using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: It's all I wear!

Stretch marks: Still none

Sleep: I've been having some sleepless nights... I find that one night I won't get a lot of sleep because I can't get comfortable, have to get up a lot to go to the bathroom etc, and then the next night I will sleep well because I am so exhausted from being up the night before. It's a vicious cycle.

Gender: It's a Boy!

Movement: He likes to move when I sit on the couch at night. You can see my whole belly shake. It freaks Rich out a little.

Best moment this week: We kicked off the beginning of our month of classes with the hospital tour this weekend. There were 6 total couples on the tour and 5 out of 6 were also having boys in October (2 of them were due the day after me). This hospital is going to be full of BOYS in October. We also got to see a labor and delivery room and a recovery room and learned about what to do when you come to the hospital, what you should bring etc. It made everything feel more real and helped with some anxiety I have about the big day.

Looking forward to: My 2nd Baby Shower this Sunday which is being thrown by some of the girls in my neighborhood.

Food cravings: Still eating a lot of chicken salad. I went to a "Lunch-and-Learn" at work today and had a chicken salad sandwich from Jason's Deli today... let me just say that they should be ashamed of their chicken salad. I've eaten a lot of chicken salad from a lot of different places lately and Jason Deli's chicken salad is by far the worst I've ever had! They put pineapple in it! Don't get me wrong... I love pineapple, it just has no place in chicken salad.

Anything making you sick: Nope

Nursery: I've completed my DIY project involving his name for above the crib. I think it turned out well. We just have to wait to put it up until after he's here. I've also washed all his little clothes, sheets, towels and blankets and have been putting them away. 

Belly button in or out: Still the same as last week.... it's still in but the top is flipped out a little.

Wedding rings on or off: On

Workouts: I went to the gym and did the elliptical for 40 minutes Friday and plan on going tonight. Definitely not going as often as I would like, but my evenings and weekends have been busy and my body just can't handle as much as it used to.

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin has developed all 5 of his senses. The irises of his eyes can now react to the light he can see through my skin. He's also going through major brain and nerve development this week.

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 30 Bumpdate

How far along: 30 weeks! We are on the home stretch.... only 10 to go!

Baby size: 17 inches / 3.1 pounds (Using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: Yes

Stretch marks: None

Sleep: Not really any changes here... some nights are good some are not.

Gender: It's a Boy!

Movement: Still kicking a lot in the morning and at night.

Best moment this week: Definitely my baby shower on Saturday!!! The hostesses did an amazing job... everything was perfect. I can't believe how many people came to shower Pumpkin with love and gifts. He is one lucky little boy! I will do a separate blog post on the shower at some point this week.

Me with all of my shower hostesses (from left to right Cousin Nicole, Yia Yia Tina, me, Great Yia Yia Sis, Aunt Laurie and Great Aunt Elaine).

Looking forward to: This weekend! I have Friday off and will hopefully be able to get started on my DIY project for the nursery. Also, this weekend kicks off the beginning of our hospital classes. We are taking a class every Saturday for the rest of August. This weekend we are starting off with a tour of the hospital.

Food cravings: Chicken salad and cookie cake (I need to watch the cookie cake craving because I gained 6 pounds at my last doctors appointment... they said that was kind of a big jump but my overall weight gain of 18 pounds is on track for a healthy pregnancy)

Anything making you sick: Apparently an empty stomach... I got sick on the way to work last week and I have no idea why because I hadn't even eaten breakfast yet!

Nursery: It's kind of a disaster zone right now.... boxes everywhere... crib in the middle of the room etc. I started to wash and put away all of Pumpkin's new little outfits we got as shower gifts and organize all the gear but couldn't get through it all this weekend. I also ordered the materials for my DIY project I am going to put on the wall above his bed. I can't wait to get it started.... although I won't be posting a picture of it on the blog until after he is here since we are keeping his name a secret :).

Belly button in or out: The top is starting to flip out.... you can even see it through my clothes... I wish it would decide what to do... either all in or all out. It looks like I have half a belly button.

Wedding rings on or off: On

Workouts: After gaining that 6 pounds, I am trying to be more conscious about being active. If I have a break at work I try to walk the halls/stairs and have been trying to go on a walk after work when I can.

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin (now the size of a cucumber) can now regulate his own body temperature and is shedding the downy hair he had all over his body to keep him warm. His brain is developing a lot this week. Also, he is getting stronger and is now strong enough to grasp a finger!

Until next time...

Tressa

Week 29 Bumpdate

How far along: 29 weeks! 11 to go!!!

Baby size: 17 in / 2.9 lbs (Using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: Yes

Stretch marks: Still none

Sleep: I am starting to have trouble falling back asleep after getting up to go to the bathroom… resulting in me not getting enough sleep and being exhausted all day :( I hope this is just a phase and not what I have in store for the next two months.

Gender: Male

Movement: Still kicking lots… I think I will miss these little kicks once he's here. He's the most active at night when I lay down to go to sleep.

Best moment this week: PASSING MY GLUCOSE TEST!!! That's right, no gestational diabetes for me :) Also, meeting up with my 2nd grade teacher on Saturday. I haven't seen her since I was like 12. She even got Pumpkin a gift!

Looking forward to: My Baby Shower this Saturday!!!! I'm so excited about all the people coming (some traveling from out of state to be here)! 

Food cravings: It's a weird one this week…. Cookie Cake! Rich and I went to dinner one night and the table next to us had a cookie cake for a birthday celebration. Ever since then I couldn't get that cookie cake out of my head. My sweet husband made a special trip to Publix tonight to get me one and it was delicious!

Anything making you sick: Not that I can think of.

Nursery: Not really any updates… but I'm sure I will have an update next week after the shower.

Belly button in or out: Still in

Wedding rings on or off: On (but off at night, otherwise it's tight in the morning)

Workouts: Work has been busy and my weekend was pretty full… so I didn't get a lot of workouts in this week.

What's going on with baby: Baby is almost at his full birth length. He's growing fat deposits under his skin and his energy is up because of it. He will double and maybe even triple (although I hope not) his weight by the time he's born.

Week 28 Bumpdate

How far along: 28 weeks! Only 12 to go until D-Day!

Baby size: 16 inches / 2.5 pounds (estimate using What to Expect app)

Maternity clothes: Yes. I purchased a new maternity dress for my shower this week :)

Stretch marks: Nope

Sleep: Same as it has been. Waking up a few times to go to the bathroom. I'm always exhausted at night, so I don't have any trouble falling asleep. I've also been having crazy dreams. I had a dream this week that I couldn't find my baby and then discovered I had put him in the diaper genie!

Gender: Bouncing Baby Boy

Movement: I feel him moving all the time. He likes to kick my ribs. 

Best moment this week: Getting my 28 week doctor's appointment over with! I got 2 shots, my glucose and several other blood tests out of the way… Still don't have results on the glucose test though. Hopefully I passed and won't have to go back to do the 3 hour test. After the appointment, Rich and I took the rest of the day off to have lunch together and shop.

Looking forward to: Getting my nails done this weekend. Also, now that I'm in the 3rd trimester I feel like I am so close to meeting my little boy. I keep daydreaming about holding him for the first time and seeing what he looks like!

Food cravings: Ice cream

Anything making you sick: Raw chicken. I have no problem with chicken if someone else makes it for me, but it makes me sick to think about preparing it myself.

What I miss: Red wine

Nursery: We tried rearranging the furniture this weekend and didn't find a way we like it better… so it will stay as is. My dad is going to bring the ends of the bookcase over before he builds it and put them in the space to see how much room he has to work with, what looks good etc. 

Belly button in or out? Still in

Wedding rings on or off? On

Workouts: Elliptical and walking

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin should be starting to settle into the proper birth position. His sleep  now includes the REM cycle which means he's dreaming. I wonder what he dreams of….

Week 27 Bumpdate

How far along: 27 Weeks! Beginning of the third trimester!

Baby size: 15 inches / 2.2 pounds (estimate using the What to Expect app)

Maternity clothes: Yes

Stretch marks: Still none

Sleep: I've been doing okay this week. Still bathroom trips during the night, but not having trouble getting back to sleep.

Gender: Boy

Movement: Lots of movement. He's started kicking my ribs which feels kind of strange.

Best moment this week: Going to the St. Simons Island for Lindsey's bachelorette party!!! I "partied" all day on the beach with the girls and then went to sleep while they went out. Also, work got me a ergonomic back rest for my chair... it really makes it so much more comfortable to sit.

Looking forward to: Getting my doctor's appointment (this one involves the glucose test and 2 shots) over with on Friday. Rich and I are going to try to take the rest of the day off and do something fun Friday afternoon.

Food Cravings: Not really craving anything in particular this week.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope

What I miss: Sitting in the hot tub... especially now that my back hurts a lot. 

Nursery: No updates. We need to try to rearrange to see if we can find a better place for the bookcase being built. Maybe we will do that this weekend. 

Belly button in or out? Still hanging on! In.

Wedding rings on or off?  Still on.

Workouts: The same... just walking and doing the elliptical.

What's going on with baby: Pumpkin's brain steam which controls all of his vital functions (heart rate, breathing, blood pressure) is fully developed. Also, he has brain activity and is starting to think, feel and perform voluntary actions. He can stretch and make grasping motions!

Week 26 Bumpdate

How far along: 26 weeks.... t-minus two weeks until the dreaded glucose tolerance test :(

Baby size: 9.2 inches / 2 lbs (estimate using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: Yes

Stretch marks: None

Sleep: Very challenging... 1-2 trips to the bathroom per night and lots of tossing and turning. Trying to sleep on my side like I am supposed to, but I keep turning to my back after falling asleep.

Gender: Boy

Movement: Lot's of movement this week. It's gotten to the point where I can see my stomach move! It's really cool/freaky. I'm not at the point where I can identify what body parts are moving or what position he is in... I have no idea if he's kicking, punching or doing somersaults. I just know there is some kind of activity going on in there.

Best moment this week: Having a 3 day holiday weekend for Independence day... kicked off by our anniversary dinner at Kevin Rathbun steak on Thursday night. Next year we'll have to get a babysitter if we want to go out to dinner!

Looking forward to: My friend Lindsey's bachelorette party at St. Simons Island this weekend. I'm sure I will be the palest of the bunch and the only pregnant person there... but I plan on having a good time. This will be my last beach trip before having this baby! 

Food Cravings: The theme this week seems to be chips.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I've started getting acid reflux this week. It constantly feels like something is going to come up no matter what I eat. I've read that this is a normal pregnancy symptom because the digestive system slows down and the uterus pushes up the stomach as it grows (sometimes pushing stomach acid up). It is suggested that pregnant women experiencing acid reflux eat several small meals throughout the day instead of 3 large meals.

What I miss: My relatively flat belly. It's starting to get hard to bend over to put my socks and shoes on.

Nursery: Sorry... there aren't really any updates in this area :(

Belly button in or out? In, but I give it one or two more weeks before its out.

Wedding rings on or off? On, however I started taking it off at night because it does feel tight when I get hot. My fear is that my hands will bloat overnight and then I won't be able to get it off!!!

Workouts: I finished the Peachtree Road Race 10-K on the 4th of July in 1 hour and 6 minutes! That's only about 10 minutes slower than my non-pregnant time! I ran most of it, but took a few walking and water breaks. I think this will be my last run of the pregnancy. Although the doctor says it's fine to run up until delivery, it just feels uncomfortable and I do worry that I'm hurting him. I'll be doing more low-impact workouts for the next 14 weeks.

What's going on with baby: Baby's eyes are starting to open this week (they have been fused together up until this point), although they don't have pigmentation yet (i.e. they aren't blue, green or brown yet). On that note.... I can't wait to see what color they are! He can see bright lights and may react to them. Also, he's practicing breathing and developing his lungs by inhaling and exhaling small amounts of fluid.

Until next time....

Tressa

Week 25 Bumpdate

How far along: 25 weeks (Only 15 weeks to go, 13 if I am lucky like my sister and go into labor at 38 weeks)

Baby size: 9 in / 1.7 lbs (estimate using the What to Expect App)

Maternity clothes: Yes

Stretch marks: None

Sleep: I've been getting more and more uncomfortable and my back always hurts in the morning! 

Gender: Boy

Movement: He's been pretty active. I had my kindle on my stomach one evening and you could see it move when he kicked. This is supposed to be his most active time during pregnancy. He's packing on the pounds and will have less room to move as the weeks go by.

Best moment this week: At my doctor's appointment Friday I learned that I've only gained 11 pounds overall and 0 pounds since the last appointment a month ago!!!! I was worried I had gained like 20 pounds already. Also, we officially became members at Peachtree Presbyterian on Sunday. I'm excited to have such a great community to bring Pumpkin up in and give him a solid faith foundation.

Looking forward to: Our 3 year anniversary is this Thursday, July 3rd, followed by the fourth of July holiday weekend. I am so blessed to have such an amazing supportive husband and Pumpkin is really lucky to have him as his dad. Here are some throwback photos from our wedding day in honor of our anniversary.....

Food Cravings: Ice Cream/ Frozen Yogurt

Anything making you queasy or sick: I had a little "episode" this weekend after eating a hamburger. It's weird because I didn't get sick at all during the first trimester but I have had 2 "episodes" after dinner during my second trimester. I don't know if it's what I ate or if it would have happened anyways... but I probably won't be eating anymore hamburgers until after Pumpkin is born.

What I miss: Sleeping comfortably.

Nursery: WE GOT THE CRIB and put it together already. I love it! I've already put all the bedding on. The room is really starting to look complete now. My next project is to figure out what I want to do on the wall above the crib. We also might need to move things around in the room so there is more room for the bookcase my dad is building. We'll just have to play around with it and see.

Belly button in or out:? In

Wedding rings on or off? On

Workouts: I've still been doing okay... not as much as I would like. Walking in the neighborhood is no longer an option because of a drive by shooting incident that happened to my neighbors on Tuesday (no one is hurt) but it is still scary. I was out walking when it happened and saw the gunman drive by me several times which makes the whole situation even scarier to me. So I will probably stick to doing my workout video and doing the elliptical at the gym for a while.

What's going on with baby: The nervous system is rapidly developing this week. He can hear loud noises and may even get startled and jump at a loud noise. He also knows which way is up and which way is down.

Until next time....

Tressa