A quick update

This will be quick because we have a lot going on right now, but I need to write some things down - if nothing else than to try and maintain my emotional sanity.

Will (screw the anonymity, my sweet baby boy's name is Will!), went for his newborn doc appt on Thursday afternoon. Everything looked good except for the slight jaundice hue he had. The doc (Dr. L. - thanks Sienna...LOVE him!) did a bilirubin test and called us about 10pm to tell us his numbers were too high and we needed to take Will to the ER immediately for evaluation and treatment.

That wasn't a totally nerve wracking call or anything! Thankfully Hubby answered the phone and was able to talk to the doc, I would have been in tears.

So, we packed up Will and took our first NYC cab ride to Corn.ell ER. After lots of tests and waiting he was admitted to the NICU around 2:30am. I couldn't stop crying the entire time we were in the ER. How the hell was I supposed to leave my 4 day old baby?!?! I'm crying as I type this. These postpartum hormones are NO JOKE!

Walking out of the hospital at 3am with my son was the hardest thing I've had to do. Even harder than losing my mom...but thankfully I knew my mom and dad (who Will is named after) were going to watch over him and take care of him.

Anyway, my short post is getting long here...

I spent all day with him yesterday, feeding him (he's breastfeeding but my milk production is really low so we're supplementing with lots of formula to get him rehydrated and gaining weight), cuddling him, changing his numerous poopy diapers and watching him pee on his own head (oops, gotta remember to keep that little weewee covered during the diaper changes). The morning test results were good and they thought he would be released last night...no such luck. The afternoon test results were the same as the morning results, as opposed to being better as they should have been.

So, yet again Hubby and I walked out of the ER without our baby boy. I was able to get a little sleep last night, but I'm up every 3 hours pumping in the hopes that will help increase my milk production, so it wasn't a consistent sleep.

We decided to hold off on the baby nurse even before Will was sent to the hospital because we wanted to try and figure a few things out on our own. As of now, she's schedule to be here Monday morning. But who knows if that will happen because of Hurricane Irene.

Speaking of that bitch, Hubby went out yesterday to stock up on supplies, not so much for the hurricane itself, but in preparation of losing electricity for a long time. It's not something I'm looking forward to, but leaving the city isn't an option right now and we've done what we can to prepare. Now we just sit and hope she changes her course enough not to take a direct hit on NYC.

My emotions have run the gamut this week from elation, joy, over-the-moon-love to lots of anxiety, fear, overwhelming urges to cry and everything in between. I know it's all normal, but having gone through an unexpected early labor, an earthquake while in the hospital (yes, I felt it), hospitalizing my 4 day old son and now potentially living through a hurricane - all within the last 6 days - is a little trying on the system.

So, I'm waiting for shift change at the hospital to call and see what Will's numbers were in the middle of the night. They'll do a repeat test at 9am this morning to compare and see if they've dropped. If so, we'll hopefully take him home today. If not...I don't know...which is what scares me to the most.

Yep, I had a baby!

The Woowoo (now known as W) was born at 10:01pm Sunday evening. He weighed in at 7lbs. 7oz. and 19-3/4" long!

We're both doing great and I am in heaven. It's been an amazing experience. I will post more when we're home from the hospital.

Baby Will, 2 days old

Um, I think I'm having a baby soon

I just got back from the doctor for my 37 week appointment (technically, I'm 36w6d...but whose counting?!?!).

• Contractions: check
• Head down: check
• Mucus plug gone: check
• Softening cervix: check
• Dilation: check (2cm)

So let me start from my last post a week ago.

Hubby and I were at the beach from last Saturday until Tuesday evening with his mom and sister (also preggo...18 weeks), which was wonderfully relaxing. I'd been having more frequent contractions but nothing to write home about. Wednesday evening Hubby wanted a little action and I was feeling good so we had a little fun. Immediately after I noticed I was spotting. I didn't really think too much of it because it stopped by Thursday morning.

I continued on with my Thursday at work, but had to go to the bathroom a couple of times during the day. This third tri has brought the dreaded preggo constipation so I was a little surprised by this. I was definitely feeling more contractions, but they were still random and sporadic. When I was using the bathroom before going to bed last night I noticed a discharge unlike anything I'd seen before...it was incredibly thick, long and slightly darker color than the typical. Think EWCM but thicker, stringier and not white (sorry, TMI I know).

I woke up twice last night with a nauseous feeling but never actually got sick. Hubby and I got up early this morning and he went for a run while I went for a very slow walk. I had a couple of contractions while on the walk but still random and sporadic.

So, I head to the doctor this morning and tell him all this and he suggests we do an internal to see what's going on. The Woowoo has totally dropped, is in the posterior position (head down), my cervix is softened (he didn't tell me how much I was effaced) and I'm 2cm dilated.

Yes, you read that correctly...I'm 2cm dilated and tomorrow is full term for me. I know things could always stay this way for a while, but the doctor (Doc B for those who know my practice) gave me a 50% chance of delivering before my next appointment which is a week from today. (If it means anything, my mom delivered me 2-1/2 weeks early and I was over 8lbs. Hubby was a week early and close to 9lbs. We breed 'em big and get 'em out early:) )

I was shocked!!! I knew things were happening but didn't think they were happening so rapidly.

So, all the things Hubby and I planned to do this weekend are no longer optional...they will get done. Fortunately, it's lots of little stuff and should be doable.

In the meantime, I'm going to enjoy the overwhelming excitement I'm feeling at meeting my sweet little boy soon...maybe sooner than I had planned:)

36 weeks (almost) and a doc update

I'll be 36 weeks tomorrow...yay me:) Even though this isn't full-term, in my mind it's another big milestone. If Woowoo were to make his appearance tomorrow, I'm confident he would be just fine.

I went to the doctor this morning and got to see my little guy again. He has managed to gain over 2lbs in the last 4 weeks. He's up to 6lbs 10oz and in the 74th percentile. I realize the weight can be off 10-20% but wow...he's a big boy already! Everything looks fine and he's progressing normally. He was being a little shy as usual, but we did get to see him practicing his sucking and swallowing for a few minutes. It's was so cute and even got my usually quiet Hubby to laugh and comment how adorable he was:)

They typically don't do an internal until full-term, however I asked for one because of all the lower abdominal pressure I've been having, and Hubby and I are heading to the beach for the next 4 days. I wanted the peace of mind that I would be OK 3+ hours away from home for longer than a day.

The nurse did the Group B strep test (results next week) and Dr. B. did the internal exam. He said the kid has definitely dropped some, but not fully and my cervix is still closed, so he gave me the green light to enjoy a little R&R (as long as Hubby promised to stop every hour on the drive down there so I could stretch my legs and pee...doctor's orders!).

We talked at length about my birth plan and he had no problems with it...yet another reason I love this doc!! He said he's seen all kinds of births and lots of great plans that get derailed; as long as I realize things may not go exactly as I hope, he's fine with my desires for no IV, freedom to move, no epidural, etc. He put it into my file and said once I'm admitted he'll sign an order for a hep lock instead of an IV...woohoo!

I've got weekly appointments now and another ultrasound to check the Woowoo's weight in three weeks. Until then, I'll keep growing my big boy:) 

35w3d belly pic...yes, I did swallow a basketball:)

The birth plan

I have an appointment with my doctor this Friday - one day shy of 36 weeks. It will be another growth scan and the usual blood pressure, pee in a cup, weight thing, but they will most likely do an internal exam as well. Primarily to make sure there isn't a fibroid blocking the Woowoos exit route (they don't think there is, but want to be sure).

I've put together a birth plan that I want to review with the doc at this point, as well. Hubby and I took the childbirth classes at the hospital and I know my doctor's (and the practice in general) philosophies on labor, but I want to discuss MY specifics with him.

Every woman has the right to have the birth she wants, and I make no judgments on anyone's choices when it comes to their own birth...so please don't make any judgments about my choices here (just wanted to throw that out there since I've gotten some comments along the lines of "you're crazy for not wanting an epidural!" or "why don't you just schedule a c-section, it'll be easier").

In a nutshell, below are the basics of how I'd prefer this birth goes, of course this is assuming the Woowoo plays along:
• no IV, but a hep lock instead
• be allowed to move freely as long as labor is progressing without any issues
• be allowed to drink clear liquids (other than water) and eat if I want (not sure they'll go for this one)
• only want an epidural if I ask for it
• if I choose to get an epidural, be allowed to labor down before pushing
• want Hubby to cut the cord
• want baby to be given to me immediately after birth (for skin-to-skin contact)
• want exclusive breastfeeding
• want baby to room-in with me

Those are the basics, I'll get into more detail about some of the items with Dr. B., but I'm most concerned about having the freedom to move around. If I'm going to try and have a natural birth, I know I'm going to want to have the freedom to change positions frequently to handle the pain of the contractions.

Ultimately, I want a safe birth for the Woowoo and me. I've come to terms with the fact that anything can happen, so I'm trying to keep an open mind and be flexible. We'll see how it goes...

In the meantime, I'm continuing to waddle my way around to and from work and putting the final touches on the nursery. Hubby and I are heading out of town for a couple days this weekend to enjoy some R&R with his family at the beach. I'm not sure a 36-week pregnant woman should be allowed on the beach, but I plan to keep myself sufficiently covered so I don't scare small children!

I'll update and post belly pics after the Friday doc appointment.

34 week randomness

I've made it past 34 weeks (34w2d today). This feels like such a huge milestone for me, I can't imagine my next milestone - 36 weeks! I had a doctor's appointment last Tuesday and things still seem to be progressing like normal. I had a lot of pelvic pain/pressure and hip pain on Wednesday but I think it was just lots of growing and stretching because it seemed back to normal on Thursday. I didn't think things could stretch anymore, but apparently they can!

I have lots of random things to say so the rest of the post will be bullet points (my favorites!).

• Hubby and I finally figured out a solution for shelves in the nursery/office/guest room. I was able to find a shelf/bookcase thingy at Ik.ea (for $40...score!) that fit exactly in the 12" we have between the crib and the closet door. It couldn't have been more perfect. We trekked out there yesterday and picked it up - along with 25 other things that weren't on the list but we absolutely had to have - and Hubby assembled it last night. It looks great and now I can put all the Woowoo's cute little books and knick knacks on display. We have a few more things to finish in the room and then I'll post some pics.

• Getting dressed in the morning has turned into a circus act, specifically I equate putting on my underwear to the ring toss. My belly is so big it's not comfortable to bend over and put one leg in the underwear and then the other. Sitting on the bed is not ideal because we have a low platform bed that isn't the easiest to stand up from. Going commando (at least on a daily basis) isn't really my style. So I've resorted to holding my panties in my right hand, as close to my foot as I can, and kind of tossing them over my foot without letting go...hoping to get the aim correct. Most days it works, but like any true circus ring toss game, sometimes it takes a few tries. Fortunately Hubby has not witnessed this yet...I fear he would hurt himself from laughing too hard at the sight of his wife trying to put her underwear on:)

• I think I'm keeping The Conta.iner St.ore in business these days. My nesting instinct has taken the form of organizing everything in our apartment. My recent trip included containers to organize our medicine cabinets in the bathroom. Next on the list...the junk drawer!

• I finally met my first IF bloggie friend in person. Last week I had the pleasure of having a very enjoyable lunch with Park Slope Purgatory. She and I both go to the same doctor (thanks to the recommendation of Sienna) and have shared similar IF experiences. It worked out that she was going to be in my neighborhood on a day I was working from home. It was so nice to relax and have a leisurely brunch with her, some of which was focused on babies, but some was just typical girl/lunch chat. I look forward to the next time we get to hang out!

• Next weekend is the annual Naut.ica New York City Tria.thlon. I was signed up to participate in the race this year, but had to defer to next year for obvious reasons. While I can't think of a better reason not to participate in this years race, it's also bittersweet for me. I don't talk about it much here, but I am a triathlete and have participated in over 20 triathlons in the past 7 years. It's a part of my life and makes me who I am. I desperately miss training for a race and feeling the adrenaline rush of what I've just accomplished as I cross the finish line. I've come to terms with not doing the race year because I'll be participating in my own type of race and feeling a totally different type of adrenaline rush in a few short weeks when I meet my Woowoo. Until then, I'll be in Central Park next weekend cheering on all the triathletes who will be swimming, biking and running their way to their own finish line!

Heat = An unhappy preggo

I know almost the entire country has been hit by the crazy heat wave the past week, but Oh My God!!! It's been extra miserable in NYC because of all the pavement (we topped out at 104 humid degrees on Friday). I never thought 85 degrees would feel cool until I walked out the door this morning.

I worked from home Friday so I wouldn't have to descend into the bowels of hell (aka, the NYC subway system) to get to the office. I never left the apartment and was perfectly OK with that, until our refrigerator decided it was done with the heat as well. The freezer is working fine, but the fridge has crapped out on us. During a heat wave. In the middle of July. When all an 8-month pregnant woman wants is a cold glass of chocolate milk. The repairman is coming tomorrow afternoon, but until then...ugh!

I had another meltdown on Saturday morning, and I contribute it equally to the heat and the hormones. I was getting ready to leave for yoga and Hubby was reading the newspaper on his computer in bed. I climbed on the edge of the bed to lay with him for a few minutes before I had to leave and the force of my gigantic body/belly caused his laptop to slip off and almost hit the floor.

I lost it and started crying over the fact that I'm constantly hot and I'm huge - to the point that I'm making computers fall off beds! I feel fat, even though most of it is baby, and I'm sticky all the time. I just can't cool down enough. Even if I weren't pregnant, I would feel fat and swollen from the heat. Thankfully Hubby let me cry for a few minutes, hugged me and told me how cute my belly was. He suggested I skip yoga, but that was the one thing I knew would bring me back to reality and calm me down a little - and it did. Well, it calmed me down, it definitely did not cool me down!

I tried to stay inside the rest of the weekend, or at least kept my ventures out to places within the neighborhood. It's frustrating, because I really do love being outside, but right now I care more about being as comfortable as possible than I do about enjoying the outdoors.

Despite all my complaining, I am so grateful to have my little Woowoo flipping around in my belly. And he can stay in there a few more weeks (even in this heat) if it means he'll come out big, strong and healthy (well maybe not TOO big) :)

Surprise...it's a baby shower!

A couple weeks ago two of my girlfriends and I decided to get together for a weekend playdate (one of the girls has a 9-month old that we haven't seen in a couple months). We planned it for yesterday afternoon. To some it might seem odd to plan this weeks in advance, but we all have crazy weekend schedules so it was necessary to make sure we were all available. Little did I know they had other things in mind.

Hubby and I finished up the second of our three birthing classes around 1:30pm yesterday, and I headed to the train to meet my friend to head to the other's apartment. I met her, we got in a cab and went uptown. The doorman at my friend's apartment buzzed us up and as I opened the door to her apartment I heard screaming "surprises" It was awesome (and kind of scared me at first)!! They had gathered a small group of my NY friends and gave me an awesome, intimate and incredibly generous baby shower, topped off with homemade carrot cake - my absolute favorite.

Hubby was in on the little secret and I'm rather surprised (and proud of him) that he didn't let anything slip. I was exhausted when I got home, but couldn't get comfortable enough to take a nap (damn backaches and shortness of breath is starting to really annoy me). So I opted to make a nice dinner for us and go to bed early. All in all, it was a great Woowoo-focused weekend.

31w3d

I wouldn't exactly call 31w3d a milestone, but I'm feeling a little uninspired to come up with a more creative title. I think the heat and humidity plaguing NYC today is sucking the life out of me. Thankfully I'm working from home and don't really need to go outside again.

I had a doc appointment this morning to check on the Woowoo's progress. Everything went according to plan. He's doing well - still growing big and strong. He weighed in at 4lbs. 3oz. which puts him in the 61st percentile. Last time he was in the 88th percentile so it seems his growing has slowed a bit, but nothing to worry about.

Physically, I've been doing OK other than a reappearance of the fibroids last week. It was pretty painful and has basically knocked me out for the last week. The doctor said it's not common to have a flare-up this far along, but not unheard of either. Fortunately, it's only painful to me and doesn't affect the Woowoo at all. I'm slowly starting to feel better, but definitely am feeling big in general.

Hubby and I have made a lot of progress on the nursery/office/second bedroom combo. We have the dresser assembled and full of freshly laundered clothes, the crib assembled and ready for the sheet and all the diapers/wipes/toys/etc organized in the closet. I had planned to have Hubby install a couple of shelves to display books and knick knacks, but I don't know if that's going to happen now. Our second bedroom is actually a converted dining room so the walls are temporary. Even though you can't tell from looking, Hubby is concerned about the stability of installing load bearing shelves on a temporary wall. I don't care about stability, I want cute and decorative, damn it! Unfortunately I don't think I'm going to win this battle which means I need to come up with an alternative solution to display "stuff". We don't have room for any other furniture so a small bookshelf is out of the question. Any suggestions?

We attended our first of three birthing classes at the hospital where I'll be delivering. It was informative, but not too overwhelming. I think the next class when she really focuses on the pushing part of labor might get a little scary for me, but we'll see...

So for now we're kind of on auto-pilot, just trying to get things done and letting the Woowoo do his thing in my belly. Speaking of...here is a picture taken last night. I know there is still a lot of growing to do, but I really don't know how my stomach is going to stretch much more!

Holy hormones

Friday after work I finally went to Des.tina.tion Mater.nity and bought some new bras - thanks for all the advice ladies!! I actually bought nursing bras because my cup size has stayed the same over the last 4-5 months. Even if it does go up (which I still think it will), the bras I bought are designed for growth so I think I'll be OK. I also got a couple bra extenders to try and make my existing old faves last a little longer. Finally, I can breathe again or at least as much as the Woowoo will let me!

Hubby met me for a few other errands and then we went home where I proceeded to have a full hormonal meltdown. It was so stupid that it's laughable now, but at the time I was in tears on the bed curled around my preggo pillow. Essentially it came down to the doorman in our building being an inconsiderate idiot and never telling me that my Fed-Ex package from Monday wasn't picked up. I had zero tolerance for his excuses and let him know it. On top of that, Hubby was tired and hungry from a bad a day at work and wasn't exactly helping me, instead impatiently holding the elevator while I berated the doorman. So basically, I went up to our apartment, stormed into the bedroom and cried because the doorman didn't give my package to the Fed-Ex man. See...totally laughable now. It's the first time I've had a completely irrational, hormonal meltdown and Hubby had no clue what to do with me, which made me cry even more.

I eventually pulled myself together and laughed with Hubby about how ridiculous I was being but I couldn't help it. Even though I knew I was being totally nuts, I couldn't stop myself or the tears. I guess I should be thankful this is the first major meltdown I've had, but geez, did it have to be over the doorman and Fed-Ex?!?!?!

Again?

Ugh, I need new bras...again. I bought three new ones pretty early in the pregnancy because the girls were getting too big from all the IF meds. I only went up one cup size, but not a band size (went from a 34B to a 34C). Those three bras have been my life support (literally and figuratively) for the past 6 months or so, but I can't deny that my ribs and torso are expanding now and I need to upsize again.

I had to do a mini strip tease at work about an hour after I got in because I simply could not breathe. Breathing has been a challenge lately anyway because the Woowoo is invading my lung space, but couple that with a too tight bra (even on the loosest hooks) and I was near hyperventilation state. So, off came the bra and I can (kind of) breathe again. Thankfully I have on a maxi dress that doesn't necessarily require a bra, but I would have considered going bra-less even in a t-shirt just to get some relief!

I wanted to hold out on buying new bras until I got closer to the due date and then just buy some nursing bras, but I think my girls have other ideas. I know I really should get measured, but I'm being lazy and would rather order my old standby bras online in a larger size.

Thoughts? Do you think I should try to stick it out until August and buy nursing bras? Get measured and buy one or two properly sized bras to get me through the next 11 weeks? Or order my old standbys online in a bigger size?

Baby shower weekend recap

WARNING: As much as I'll try to keep this short, it could get a little wordy. But I'll reward with you pictures at the end if you can make through the whole thing.

I was scheduled on a Thursday evening flight to Ohio. We had storms moving through NY that night and they caused major havoc with all the flights. I had a 3+ hour delay so I used the time to get some work done. Without my mom around anymore, I always stay with my in-laws. By the time they picked me up and we got home it was 2:30am...I was exhausted!

It was great to sleep in Friday morning, but not for too long because I had to finish up the freelance project. At 3pm my MIL and I dropped 6 months worth of work off at Fed-Ex (woohoo!). We then did some shopping and stopped by the shower venue to figure out table arrangements. I picked up Hubby at the airport Friday night (poor guy was stuck working in NY all day while I was shopping with his mom), and we called it a day.

Saturday started with wonderful pedicures with my MIL and two sisters-in-law. I treated as a thank you for all the hard work they put into the baby shower. We had lunch, ran a few more errands and then took naps (one of my sis-in-laws is also pregnant in her first trimester so she's tired all the time). Hubby and I met some of his friends from high school for dinner. When we got back home two of my aunts had arrived (both coming from out of town and staying at the in-laws overnight). I stayed up talking with them for a little while which was great since I don't get to see them often.

Sunday morning was a whirlwind of activity as we all tried to get ready and out of the house in time for the 11am shower. It was an amazing shower! I got to see friends I hadn't seen in a couple of years, some family I only get to see once a year and even a few random guys from college (the shower was at a golf course on a Sunday morning...I was bound to run into someone from college). Hubby stopped by just before it was time to open gifts so he got to help too, which I thought was really cute of him (I definitely scored myself a good man with that one!).

The Woowoo received so many wonderful gifts, both from the registry and some off the registry that were handmade. I still can't get over how generous everyone was. I said a few thank you's at the end and got chocked up (something I rarely do). I wasn't sure I wanted to have a shower at all because I knew it wouldn't be the same without my mom. In hindsight, I'm really happy I did. I made sure and let everyone know their generosity and love are the things that made the shower so worth it. Everyone in the room had known my mom so they understood just how appreciative I was. All in all, it was an amazing day!

Enjoying some family time the night before the shower.

Opening gifts at the shower. Some people had the gifts shipped to us and included an image of what they got us.

These are most of the gifts that were shipped to us (not including the ones we actually received AT the shower)!

Quick doc appt update

I had my 27 week growth scan, doc appointment and glucose test this morning. All is well with the Woowoo...he is a big boy measuring in the 85th percentile at 2lbs 13oz. Thankfully his head measurements are right back on track. I still think the last time his numbers were so low was because of bad measuring by the tech (whatever the reason, I'm glad we're back to normal now). Anyway, he's flipped himself to head down. He was breech for so long I wasn't sure he would flip. I realize it's likely he'll still flip around for another month or so, but I'm hoping he learns to like this position:)

I won't know the results of the glucose test until tomorrow morning, but fingers crossed I passed. I hadn't eaten anything since last night so I could drink the nasty orange sugar this morning. It took it's toll. I passed out after the growth scan while the tech was having the doctor review the results. Thankfully Hubby was with me and got a nurse and the doc. They rolled me to my left side and put a cold compress on my forehead. I immediately started feeling better. 10 minutes later I was ready to leave and have my blood drawn. I ate immediately after while waiting to see the doc for my appointment. I was still a little shaky but my blood pressure was normal and the Woowoo was doing gymnastics in my belly so I knew all was good. Scary nonetheless since I've never passed out before.

So basically all is good with the baby and with me and I should just keep doing what I'm doing for another 4 weeks until my next growth scan and doc appt.

On another topic, I had a fabulous time visiting family and at my baby shower this weekend. I'll post all about it in the next few days with some new pics. I will say I have one spoiled (and very loved) little boy!

A celebration weekend

I am very much looking forward to the weekend which, for me, starts at 5pm today. I'm taking tomorrow and Monday off work to travel home to Ohio for one last family visit and my baby shower on Sunday. I know the Woowoo is going to be spoiled rotten. He is a lucky boy to have such wonderful family and friends that he hasn't even met yet!

My other reason for a weekend of celebration is the (almost) completion of my gigantic freelance project. I haven't gone into any detail on this blog - and I won't for fear of boring you - but the project has been going on since early January. It's a 400+ catalog and I've logged well over 200 hours. It's been a mad dash to the finish the last few days, with a couple of sleepless nights, but I'm hoping to send it to the printer tomorrow. WOOHOO!!!! We are almost two weeks past our deadline, but I'm happy that it should be done before the shower. I'll be able to fully relax and enjoy the weekend without work hanging over my head.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

A little R & R and new bump pics

Last week, Hubby and I headed out of town for our baby moon. The plan was for lots of rest and relaxation, but in a typical fashion for us it turned into lots of randomness and some relaxation.

We've never been the type of couple to take a long vacation and stay in one place. Some of our typical vacations include spending a few days in Bangkok, Thailand spending a few days on the beach in Koi Samui, Thailand then finishing with time in Hong Kong. On another trip we spent a few days in Queensland, New Zealand moved on to Auckland, New Zealand then finished on the beaches in Fiji. Needless to say, when we vacation we like to mix it up. This baby moon was no exception.

We started in Copenhagen, Denmark (my best friend and her husband live there and have a 4 month old baby) then flew to Miami, Florida and finished on the beaches of Sanibel Island, Florida. I was originally hoping we could go back to St. John in the USVI where we got married, but Hubby wanted easier access to medical care in case something happened to the Woowoo or me while we were gone.

After a couple crazy busy weeks leading up to Friday afternoon we were finally packed and ready to go. Unfortunately we waited too long to get a car service and nothing was available. On a Friday afternoon. In the rain. When we each had a suitcase, computer bag and carry-on. We tried to grab a cab with no luck, so our only option was the subway. Me, 6 months preggo and Hubby with most of the luggage. I almost had a full on melt down when no one (I repeat no one) would help me down the subway stairs with my bags. I sometimes wonder what the hell is wrong with people? Do I need to start wearing a sign that says "I'm pregnant, can you please offer to help me?" But I digress...

We eventually made it to the airport, on the plane and arrived safely in Copenhagen. I was really worried about the long flight and my tendency to airplane swelling so I bought compression socks. Yes, the kind your 80-year old grandmother wears. I didn't care, I wanted to keep the cankles to a minimum. The socks, drinking gallons of water and having to get up and pee every hour definitely helped keep the swelling down. We were greeted at the airport by my friend, her husband (who was born and raised in Denmark) and their baby. It was so great to see all of them. This is the fourth time we've visited them in Denmark so we decided to keep things simple and low-key. Having a 6-month preggo and a 4-month old didn't really bode well for lots of touristy activities. We enjoyed lots of good company and good food with them and got to spend some quality time with their little peanut - it was good practice for what's ahead for us.

While the weather was gorgeous in Copenhagen, I was ready for some beach time, so on Tuesday morning Hubby and I headed back to the airport and flew down to Miami, FL. We had no plans other than to sit by the pool or on the beach and relax. Again I had some swelling from the plane ride, but a wonderful pedicure on Wednesday morning cured that:)

We left Miami Thursday morning and drove the 3 hours across the state to the gulf side and arrived at the cutest little resort on Sanibel Island. It was quiet and intimate yet had all the amenities we wanted (pool, beach, chairs, breakfast!!). We immediately threw on the bathing suits and went pool side. It was H-O-T but the pool was great. I could detail each of the remaining days for you, but they all blurred together because they pretty much consisted of breakfast, beach (lots of reading, some ocean time, some napping), lunch, pool, nap, dinner, bed. It was fantastic:)

Unfortunately we had to return to reality and got back home on Sunday afternoon. We had Monday off for Memorial Day, so it was a good day to get caught up on unpacking, laundry, groceries, etc. And then back to work on Tuesday.

The vacation already feels like it was months ago, but I'm so glad were able to take the time together to get away before everything changes (for the better!). Other than a minor reappearance by the fibroid pain while in Miami, it was a fantastic vacation.

My baby shower is in Ohio next weekend and then we're done traveling until the little man makes his appearance. I can't believe how quickly time is flying by!

I've posted a few baby moon/bump pics...enjoy.

Almost 24 week update

As usual I'm running in 25 different directions but wanted to post about my last doctor's appointment, although it was mostly uneventful (I say mostly because there was one measurement that has me a little worried, but I'll explain below in the "UPDATE").

Since I'm short on time I'm going to take the easy way out and use this format:

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 23 Weeks and 4 days 

Size of baby: He currently weighs 1lb, 6oz based on my last doctor's appointment on Monday.

Total Weight Gain: According to my home scale I'm up 13lbs - and the home scale is the only one I'm really paying attention to since I weigh myself every week at the same time on the same day.

Maternity Clothes: I'm about 90% maternity now. There are still two pair of jeans I can wear with the Bella Band but I'm quickly approaching the end of that. I will say the elastic waist is sooo much more comfortable!

Gender: One super-cute (yes, I'm biased) baby boy. He was in a good position at the last appointment and even the tech commented on his cute little nose when we were looking at the 4-D images:)

Movement: He is an active little wiggle worm. He seems to be most active in the early mornings, but I do feel him throughout the day. Yesterday I was able to see him from the outside for the first time. It was surreal!

Sleep: Not too bad these days. I finally caved and bought a "pregnancy pillow" and it has been wonderful. We're leaving for an 8-day vacation on Friday and I wish there was some way I could take the pillow. I'll sacrifice clean underwear for a good night's sleep anytime:)

What I miss: Sushi. Real sushi, not the faux shrimp sushi I have been making do with.

Cravings: Most of my cravings came in the first trimester and even then it wasn't anything that I didn't already eat. The one thing I haven't had since I was a kid and I simply HAD TO HAVE recently was pistachio pudding. It was heavenly!

Symptoms: I'm still having residual discomfort from the fibriods, but I think that's going to be my new "norm" for the remainder of the pregnancy so I've gotten used to it. I've also started to get some ankle swelling but not full blown cankles...yet.

Milestones:  I'm in an odd in-between period. Because of my vacation next week I had to change my 24-week appointment to a 23-week appointment so it's throwing off the milestones. For some reason, 24-weeks feels like a big number. And I know 28 weeks will be huge when I cross over to the third trimester. For now, I'm on auto-pilot.

UPDATE: Everything went well at my 23-week appointment on Monday, but there was one number that the doctor mentioned. She said it wasn't anything to worry about but the Woowoo's head circumference was on the very low side of normal while all his other numbers were on the high side. He's still in the breech position which can affect the head size. The doctor who reads the ultrasound results didn't even mention it and said the Woowoo was in the 65th percentile and looked good. I'm trying not to freak myself out about the low number, but I admit it's going to be a long 4 weeks until my next growth scan. Dr. Google hasn't been my friend and resulted in some scary findings, so I'm done with him for now. I'm not totally confident the tech took accurate measurements because she only measured 3 of my fibriods when I know there are 6 and the 3 she did measure grew?!?! That makes no sense. The immense pain I was in is a strong indicator that the fibriods have been shrinking, not growing. Anyway, these are the thoughts I'm using to try and keep myself sane and not going into a full blown panic meltdown (I admit I was on the verge yesterday, but feel better today). Regardless, I love my little Woowoo more than I thought I could and want to protect him from anything bad...ever!

An unexpected doctor's visit

I got to see my sweet boy again yesterday morning...unscheduled.

Over the weekend I had some general discomfort/pressure in my lower abdominal region, mostly on my right side. I didn't really think much of it and figured it was just more growing pains. I woke up for work Monday morning and all hell broke loose. I was in the shower doubled over in pain that was sharp, stabby and then would turn to constant and achy. Regardless of the type of pain, it was pain! Pain to the point I could barely walk.

I finished my shower, toweled off and hobbled into the bedroom where Hubby was just waking up. He sat bolt upright when he saw my face and I broke down in tears and simply said "I don't feel well." He was very calm and reassuring and asked what hurt, if I was spotting, and if I'd felt the baby. Thank God for his calm reaction. I was a basket case and on the brink of total meltdown at that point. He gently pointed out that it might be the fibriods causing the problems. I was so worried it was the Woowoo it never crossed my mind that it might be fibriods.

Anyway, I calmed down, got dressed and settled into the couch to wait for the docs office to open. As soon as I reached them I spoke to the midwife, told her what the problems were and she scheduled me to go in for a visit. One of the benefits of living 6 blocks from your OB/GYN is the ability to go in immediately. Within an hour I was explaining my symptoms to Dr. G (who I met for the first time and LOVED!). The first thing she did was have me lie back and turned on the sound on the ultrasound machine. I heard the tiny heartbeat and immediately started crying. I can usually keep it together better than that, but I was so scared for my Woowoo that I couldn't have controlled my emotions if I tried. She was so comforting and told me he looked great. He was kicking up a storm in my belly. Never in my life have those little kicks been so welcome!

After a lot of painful probing, prodding and poking Dr G. felt the pain was coming from one of the fibroids in the lower right area of my abdomen. But, she didn't rule out appendicitis. She consulted with Dr. R. and he agreed that it was most likely the fibroid. She gave me a pain medicine prescription (not harmful to the baby) and scheduled a follow-up for Thursday morning.

I went home mentally and emotionally exhausted, ate lunch, took my pain med and slept the rest of the afternoon. I'm back at work today, but still in quite a bit of pain. Somehow I'm able to deal with the pain knowing my sweet baby is OK and not at all affected by my fibroid. In fact, he's so unfazed by it that he keeps kicking me in that area!

I will say I am so, so thankful to be under the care of the doctors at my practice. They put me totally at ease and knew my biggest concern was making sure the baby was OK. It's nice to know I have doctors who care and "get it".

Now, if only the pain would go away...

21 weeks and pictures

I'm 21w1d today and I still can't believe it! I guess these pictures and the karate kicks the baby has been giving me are my reminders:)

The Woowoo was being a little shy for the 4-D image so all we can see is his little mouth, but I love the regular ultra sound pic because you see his little hand in his mouth. And of course, I've put up a pic of me at 20 weeks.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Halfway

I can't believe it, but I'm already 20w4d. I have no clue where the time has gone. I'm still up to my eyeballs in freelance work, but I keep reminding myself that it's going to pay for my extra 4 weeks of maternity leave I want to take. It's all for the baby:) Because I've still been a bad blogger I'm going with the bullets...again. I know, they're getting old.

•We had a 20-week appt and second anatomy scan on Monday. Everything went really well. The Woowoo (or Baby Will as we call him now) is growing just like he's supposed to. He's still measuring a few days ahead and is a chubby little guy weighing in at 14oz (80th percentile). He's breech but that doesn't stop him from being a little wiggle worm.

• I started to feel him kick around 18 weeks, but Hubby was able to feel him Monday morning before our appt for the first time. Most mornings, if I lay flat in bed, I can feel his little legs kicking me. I love it. Ask me again in six weeks if I still love it and I might have a different answer, but now it's the highlight of my day.

•I have still three fibroids in me, but they've gotten a bit smaller which is a good thing. Dr. Goo.gle has told me they can go away during pregnancy and I'm hoping mine do! But the fibroids are giving me the chance to see Baby Will every 4 weeks because the docs want to monitor their size.

•I've gained 11lbs so far and my bump is still small, but the doc said this is totally normal for my height and activity level. So screw all the people who keep judging me on not eating enough. Trust me folks, I'm eating for two! I've still been running (well ok, run/walking) twice a week and with the warmer weather I'm still loving it. I've had some minor hip discomfort towards the end of the runs, but the doc said that was to be expected as I get bigger and my joints start to widen and loosen even more. I'm also trying to do a yoga class once a week and throwing in a session with my trainer and elliptical so I'm definitely keeping active.

•I'm amazed at how much my body changes from day to day. Some of the changes I love (seeing my belly grow bigger with my sweet boy) and some not so much (the red, itchy bumps I've got on my abdomen and chest just in time for summer and lower cut shirts).

•Regardless, seeing my belly reminds me just how thankful I am to be in the position I'm in. I haven't forgotten all the pain, tears, worry, frustration and anger I felt going through the process to get here. I'm experiencing some of it again as my sis-in-law is going through a similar situation. My heart aches for her and I'm trying to be as much of a comfort to her as she'll let me be. I'm also reminded of all my blogger friends who are still struggling with their own IF issues. I am not taking any of this for granted and try to remember everyday what a gift it really is!

Hopefully I'll have baby and baby bump pictures up in another day or two. I need Hubby to scan the baby pics first!

There really is a baby in my belly

I've had three co-workers come up to me and say "oh, now I can see that you're pregnant!". Hmmm, how should I take that statement? My typical response is "yep, there really is a baby in my belly." I know they mean well, but I think that's an odd thing to say. My initial thought it to take it as a criticism that I'm not as big as I should be at this stage.

This is my first baby, I'm tall (5'8"), fairly thin and still working out regularly, so I've only recently popped (and I still feel like it's too early for me to "pop"...I'm 17w4d). I keep reminding myself that as long as my doctor says the baby is fine and growing the way he should, I don't need to worry about other people's perceptions of my belly and pregnancy in general. Easier said than done...

I'm probably being overly sensitive about this, but my emotions seem to be on a roller coaster lately and I have no clue whose doing the driving because I'm definitely not. Anyway, I'm going to make my blog photo debut and post a bump pic from last week when I was 16w3d. I'd say the "popping" has occurred over the weekend so I look bigger now than I did in this pic.

Regardless of peoples comments and my reactions to them, I'm falling more and more in love with  Woowoo everyday:)