Week 18

Week 18 is ridiculous! We're just shy of halfway through. The baby is the size of a sweet potato according to this. Typically, the baby could be yawning, hiccuping and the like. This makes sense because Little Miss hiccuped her way through her first ultrasound video. This little one is already active based on previous peeks in there. Lots of kicking (whereas Little Miss was more of a roller than a kicker). 

I can still fit into my pre-pregnancy tops and pants (with some cheats), but it's a close fit. I may be able to get some more wear out of anything with a little give, but I think I'm in a final countdown to when my button-down blouses get packed away. I'm lucky that I never got high blood pressure or any swollen feet or ankles. I'm hoping to be as lucky this time. I haven't gotten any epic bloody noses this time which is nice. Overall, no complaints. Oh, if only a woman could live in the second trimester forever. 

I go to the doctor on Friday for a check up.  I'd like one check up where things go smoothly.  I don't think that's too much to ask, but the little one disagrees.  We should get our 20-week ultrasound/sonogram appointment as well which is exciting as it's been a whole month since we got to peek in.

 

Weekend Update - Where Are My Forest Creatures?

So, the weekend before Thanksgiving, we just cleaned.  We found a home for everything and cleaned up almost everything.  A bug hit our home so Little Miss and Husband weren't feeling well, but we made do.  Little Miss went to the In-Laws' apartment for some cookie decorating and a sleepover.  She wasn't feeling well in the morning, but she perked up by the afternoon.  We spent the entire weekend cleaning - tidying mostly.

Also, there was a lot of sleep.  It would be much easier if woodland creatures did my cleaning.

We hosted my parents for Thanksgiving.  I had a half day of work on Wednesday and then Thursday and Friday off.  On Monday, I left work early so I was all set to go to Doctor Who airing in 3D IMAX.  I met a friend to see it, and it was worth it.  On Tuesday, I had the morning off to see Little Miss's Thanksgiving show.  The kids were super cute.  The weather was horrendous - cold and rainy.  On Wednesday, I head home after work in the cold and rain to do the last of the cleaning.

On Thursday, Little Miss and I woke up to play some games, and then she helped me make the veggies and cranberry sauce.  Then, we did the last of the cleaning.  Dinner was pretty good with the family and we've been gladly eating leftovers ever since.

Week 17

This week, Baby is the size of an onion and, according to this, gaining weight and getting bigger. I definitely feel the baby getting bigger. I officially hit the point where I didn't just eat a big dinner. I look pregnant (and I also ate a big dinner).

I think I've felt the baby, but I'm always horrible figuring that out. No growing pains this week though I occasionally have trouble catching my breath. It's been a pretty busy week so not much thought to the little guy. He'll get his attention later - or whenever I try to get up off a couch.

Weekend Update - Naps Are Our Friend

Last weekend, nothing much happened despite grand plans to clean the apartment.  On Saturday, Little Miss and I played every board game we own.  I lost almost every single one of them from Guess Who to Old Maid to Candyland to Chutes and Ladders to I Spy.  Then, Little Miss and I had lunch and took a nap.  In the late afternoon, I took a shower and pretty much did nothing until it was time to go to bed.  In my defense, I had a pretty bad headache. 

On Sunday, Little Miss and I met Sister-in-Law and Nephew at the mall for holiday pictures.  It went successfully.  Then, we had lunch and walked around the mall.  To my disappointment, we found nothing that was worth waiting in line for.  Little Miss wanted a pair of fingerless gloves (on sale) but not enough to stand in line.  So, we left.  She napped when we got home for a little while, and I relaxed a bit on the couch watching some tv.  I regretted not taking a nap later though.

That was the entire weekend.  It was pretty low-key though not as low key as this coming up weekend.  It'll sound like absolute excitement compared the coming up weekend. 

Week 16

So, according to this week, the baby is the size of an avocado which has made me want guacamole all week long. The baby is listening to my voice, thanks to tiny bones forming in the ears, growing hair, lashes and eyebrows. And the baby is forming taste buds. That's a pretty big week. Big like my waistline.

I had some growing pains this week which makes sense as the belly seemed to come out of nowhere this week. Also, I went to the doctor for my blood test (to check for genetic anonalies - the last test unless we need further testing) and discovered I gained all the weight I lost in the first trimester. During the last 2 weeks. So, that made the nurse happy. I knew I was up to the challenge. And I surpassed 100 pounds (just barely) which always freaks me out a little. It's just a number, and I'm not seriously freaked out, but it always seems so much bigger than anything slightly smaller.  I go back in 2 weeks and then we get the big 20 week ultrasound.  Exciting times. 

 

Week 15

You can find additional information here, but "the average fetus at 15 weeks weighs 2.5 ounces and measures 4 inches -- and his proportions are becoming even more normal, since his legs now outmeasure his arms."

My goals this week were to gain weight and hydrate. Last week, the doctor noted that the amniotic fluid looked low, but this could be because I'm the worst at hydration so this week, I got back on the bandwagon. So, if you can't find me, chances are I'm in the restroom. As for the weight, I've lost about 5 pounds since prepregnancy which is a lot for me. Too bad I couldn't do this while not pregnant, but I guess life doesn't work that way. I wasn't even that ill during the first trimester. I attribute this to being asked to go on the gestational diabetes diet early. I may have to take a break and carb up through the holiday. Truthfully, at this point, because the baby is measuring an average size, the weight loss isn't that much of a concern.

I do officially hate all my clothes yet even in my hatred, I understand that maternity clothes are a big waste of money. It's going to cause a problem when I want to wear pants during the winter months and only have 2 pairs though. I'll have to figure something out but I'm not there yet. Thanks to some MacGuyver like moves, my prepregnancy pants still work - they're just working extra hard. As for movement, the internet says around 16 weeks for first-time moms (though I was more like 30 weeks because I was the most unintuitive mom out there) or earlier. I thought I felt some movement this week though.

 

Weekend Update - Where Did It Go?

I suppose, in all honest, many are still on their weekend.  I am working this Veterans' Day though.

I had good intentions (ok, some intention) to clean this past weekend.  We watched a little tv on Friday instead.  Then, we just got busy and lazy.  I should amend that to say I got busy and lazy because Little Miss actually did a fantastic job cleaning her room. 

On Saturday, I met college friends and their children for brunch.  It was great catching up.  I don't think I've seen them in about 10 years.  After, I went home to take a quick nap to try to rid myself of a headache before going to a six-year-old's birthday party.  I think it was kind of pointless, but I can't imagine what the headache would have been like if I hadn't rested first.  So, when I got home, I rested some more to completely rid myself of it.

On Sunday, we got up to get Christmas portraits done with Nephew.  Before we left, Little Miss and I spent time together in the morning where she spent the time reading her school paperwork and asked for an impromtu lesson on the difference between commas and "capostrophes".  So, we had a little schooling.  She then went to finish all her school work she didn't have time to finish throughout the week because she wasn't assigned any weekend homework to do.  Seriously, who does this?

Getting dressed, I noticed that I bought Little Miss's dress a size too small by accident.  After calling the store, I was told that I would have to send it back to get a refund (minus shipping costs), but I decided to take it to the mall just in case.  I was going to be there anyway.  To skip ahead, Gap Kids did give me a refund with no question at all.  So, thumbs up Gap Kids.  Also, thumbs up for having a bathroom in your store.  It was a lifesaver.  Anyway, the portraits came out well, I thought.  After, we did lunch at The Cheesecake Factory which is never a bad idea.  Then, we said farewell to Sister and Nephew while we walked around. 

While at the mall, we saw that the Santa display was up.  I told Little Miss we could walk around, but we weren't doing Santa that day.  Even though she looks like a big girl, she really wanted to see Santa.  The display made it appear like it snowed inside, and she had a blast just walking around.  I promised her we'd see Santa closer to Christmas.

I also promised my free monthly chocolate from Godiva to Little Miss.  She talked me into a chocolate turkey for $6.95.  However, when we checked out, the woman said if I spent $10, I'd get $10 off.  So, we picked up a second chocolate turkey and our entire receipt was $3 and change.  So, I had to buy more to pay less.  Good day indeed.

Last night, Little Miss spent the night at the In-Laws' apartment so I took that opportunity to go to bed early. 

Halloween

It looks like I forgot Halloween.  Little Miss was a bumblebee.  Nephew was obviously Captain America.  We had our ultrasound so my dad picked up Little Miss from school, and we all met at my parents' house.  After dinner, the kids (and parents) went door-to-door for a little over an hour.  It was a lot of fun despite the little bit of drizzle.  Because of work, this is the first Halloween Husband has participated in since her first two. 

Weekend Update - You Say It's My Birthday

All of last week, I was battling a head cold.  On Friday, I cleaned a little, but it was a busy week, and I was just exhausted.  So, I went to bed.  Saturday was Little Miss's birthday party for which I woke up early.  I cleaned the house and started cooking, but as it always happens, we were running behind.  My parents came early to help and in the nick of time!  We were still maybe a few minutes late, but it wasn't that bad.  I don't think it affected the party at all.  It was chaos, but I think Little Miss had fun.

Father-in-Law made the cake and cupcakes which were the hit of the party.  Everyone had compliments.  Little Miss was showered with gifts.  Her favorites included glitter paint (from Mom), Cinderella Uno Cards (from Brother-in-Law) and some new board games.  She also received a lot of arts and crafts sets which she'll enjoy.  Some of the presents were very nostalgic like Connect Four and Lite Brite.  It makes me feel not as old to see her play with the same toys and games that I enjoyed.

On Saturday night, we had a quiet night.  Little Miss and I played some of her new games before bed.  Then, we all crashed fairly early after scavenging and eating leftovers from the party food.

On Sunday, Little Miss and I woke up early to go to a birthday party.  It was rushed, but she had a good time and had a good nap in the afternoon.  After the rest, we played another new game.  She's becoming quite the winner - and trash talker.  It's kind of hilarious even if I'm trying to make her a good sport at the same time.  We did dinner, bath and bed last night, but it was a rough night.  She was a little clingy and had trouble staying asleep which had to do with the nap and some itchy skin.  She's been a little clingier than usual, but as she put it so succinctly this morning, "I miss you except tomorrow (when she's with her cousin), and then I'll forget about you."  So, it's nice to know where I stand.  Good weekend, but I need a weekend to recover!

Week 14

This week's information can be found here, but baby is the size of a lemon or 3 1/2" inches long which is probably close to accurate. We were a little over 3" long last week during our ultrasound. Based on last week, the little one was busy kicking and moving around. In all the ultrasounds, he's been quite active which exhausts me just thinking about it.

We had our next doctor appointment Friday morning, but I expect hope all will go well. I can't imagine anything popping up since last Thursday's ultrasound. I'm not sure if they'll do the next set of blood tests tomorrow or the next appointment, but this month should be relatively uneventful before the big 20 week scan. Meanwhile, Little Miss really wishes she could hear the heartbeat. She'll be excited once she'll be able to feel him move, I bet. Knowing my intuition, she'll feel him before I do. I didn't recognize movement with Little Miss until practically birth. 

Update:  Blood test in 2 weeks so no needles on Friday.  That was good.  The little bugger was too busy moving to get a heartbeat, but we took a quick super low-res ultrasound of it and saw that everything was ok.  There were some other little items to watch, but all is good.  We go back in 4 weeks and then get our order for the big ultrasound to check progress and confirm gender again.

Books Read in October 2013

1. Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman
2. Drawn Together by Lauren Dane  (NOTE:  This is part of the Brown Family series. The order of which can be found here.
3. The Untamed Mackenzie by (NOTE: This is part of the Mackenzie/Highland Pleasures series - the order of which can be found here)
4. The Wicked Deeds of Daniel Mackenzie by (NOTE: This is part of the Mackenzie/Highland Pleasures series - the order of which can be found here)

Decent month – not too few or too many. Orange is the New Black was for book club, and I found it very interesting. The other three were romance which were fast and enjoyable reads. I do enjoy the Mackenzie series and, despite mixed reviews, I enjoyed it. It was a challenging character, but I love seeing characters redeemed, even the ones you think cannot be redeemed at all.

Movies Watched in October 2013

1. Captain Phillips

It was another pathetic movie month this month. I did at least make it to the theater for this one. It was a well done movie, and we got to see it in the theater that has recliners which is always a plus. I highly recommend this viewing pleasure. I like having my feet up only, but you can pretty much fully recline. It’s glorious. The movie was pretty good, too.

Random Tidbits

1. Little Miss threw a tantrum on Tuesday because I wouldn't let her finish all of her homework for the week.  I'm the meanest mom ever.  This was also due in part because she was unhappy with how the finished product kept coming out.  Our solution was that she do Tuesday's homework and the rest on Wednesday.  We worked through the challenge of drawing a perfect dog and drew a snake instead. 
2. Little Miss loves homework.  It's ridiculous.  She is aware that she's only in kindergarten which is why she enjoys it and that she probably won't in a couple of years.  Still, even on the weekend, she'll take quizzes on the little tablet she got for her birthday last year.  For fun.  Seriously, she takes quizzes for fun. 
3. I'm at the awkward stage where prepregnancy clothes are too tight (my shirt on Monday was working extra hard), but maternity clothes are too big.  However, I've somewhat passed the point where I just looked like I gained 5 pounds from a big lunch which is good.  I'm lucky in that this is when, belly aside, I'm my leanest.  All my weight goes to the belly and the rest kind of migrates there.  That said, it all shifts back after I stop breastfeeding (unless I do something drastic like exercise).
4. I had forgotten the growing pains of pregnancy.  I remembered the sickness and the congestion (though glad I never got the bloody noses this time around), but I forgot the growing belly pains.  Ouch. 
5. I feel bad that our Christmas tree farm is closed, but it used to take us the entire day to drive out there, pick a tree and drive back to set it up.  We found a place that is much closer and still a little privately-owned place.  It should take us maybe an hour to do.  I'm looking forward to relaxing the day after Thanksgiving now.  What we save in gas is used in buying a mini pointsettia for Little Miss though.  They're so cute (as is she), and it's hard to resist when she asks for something so little.  Some days I feel like we just say no to her all the time.  I mean, I packed her snack for school (Wheat Thins), and she thanked me like I'd given her a giant cupcake.  Gratitude is nice, but I don't feel like Wheat Thins are worth a hug and declaration that I'm the best mom ever.  It's nice she thinks so if only for the moment.

Car Conversations

Last night, Little Miss and I drove out to my parents' house during rush hour traffic.  We got to talking about a great number of things.  At one point, I asked Little Miss if she was going to help her brother with his homework.  Her response was outrage.

"Mommy, I'm not going to remember the things I did as a CHILD!"

And that was the end of that.

Presidents

My mom, and Husband to a certain extent, are history buffs.  Both know all the presidents.  My mom has challenged her grandchildren (this began with my cousins who did not take her up on the challenge) to learn the presidents.  For achieving this goal, there is a great sum of money earned.  Nephew did this last year at the age of 7.  We may be able to do that as well if not surpass that age. 

Little Miss has learned the first ten presidents, first and last names.  I told her she only needed to learn the last names, but she would have none of that.  I'm also hoping my mom doesn't take points away for mispronunciation because Martin Van Buren is a little tricky for her.  Her extra points for learning first and last names should carry her.

Regardless, her favorite (so far) is John Tyler. In the book that we have, John Tyler is surrounded by marbles. I ran across this today. I don't have the heart to tell her it's a myth. She'll have to find a new favorite president.  Maybe she'll like Teddy Roosevelt.  His page has a teddy bear.

I'm editing this to mention that many websites still say that John Tyler was playing marbles when notified he was now President.  I'll let Little Miss believe it for now, and she can make up her own mind.  It's not like there's a reliable source to confirm anymore.

How to Crush Dreams (In One Easy Step)

Two weeks ago, during our ultrasound, the doctor was alarmed because there seemed to be an anomaly in the development of the bladder.  So, he wanted to see us again in two weeks.  Yesterday, we went in for our third ultrasound in a very short time.  It's amazing how much the baby has grown and developed though. 

It looks like all the organs are where they are supposed to be, and the baby is measuring where a 13 week baby should.  We saw and measured the heartbeat and saw organs, blood flow, and spine along with both hands/arms and feet/legs.  Lots of kicking so I feel like I'm in trouble down the road. 

The technician asked if we wanted to see the gender.  We didn't think you could tell at 13 weeks, but you clearly could.  We're having a boy.  Our first thought went to Little Miss who had her heart set on a sister.  More in a minute.  So, the doctor said everything looked on schedule, but they still want to keep an eye on me, but I think we should be able to hold off until the halfway ultrasound unless something pops up between then.  Regrets, we never asked for pictures of the sonogram, but we were there so you'll have to trust us.  The 3-D ultrasounds creep me out and, at this stage, skew the images anyway.  Still, it was unique to see.

My dad picked up Little Miss from school so she could get ready for trick or treating, and we met them out at my parents' place after the doctor.  We took her aside by herself and broke the news.  There was a mini temper trantrum before she left the room without speaking to us.  We then told my parents who kind of figured it out after Little Miss's reaction.  Nephew was very excited though.  Husband called his parents and brother. 

By the end of the evening, Little Miss had accepted the situation.  By this morning, I'd say she is pleased but maybe not excited.  She is holding all her hope on getting a girl cousin, but I think she'll later appreciate being the only girl in the immediate family.  She did approve the name so that helped smooth things over.  Nephew has requested we name the baby Robert Griffin III after the Redskins quarterback.  We are not.

If you're going to deliver unexpected news to a child, you should always do it a half hour before she goes door-to-door begging for candy.  It helps ease the pain.

Week 13

You can read more, here, but it says the baby is about the size of a peach (though another website said peapod), just shy of 3" long. My stomach has a tiny bump. I'm in the in between clothes where I'm good if it's elastic, but nothing fits properly. I just hate everything, and everything hates me. Fatigue is going away though it's hard to tell with me. I'm always tired. 

We've only just entered the second trimester depending on what measurement you're using, but it's going to go by like a blur as this time of year always does.  By the time the dust settles, we'll be close to the third trimester in February which is kind of terrifying. I know everything will fall into place, but it just seems like we're all like "we've done this before" and "we have plenty of stuff saved from the first time", but the things we're not thinking of will get us, I'm sure. Still, those worries are for another time and place. Not today. *g*

Weekend Update - Crankypants

On Friday, we had a quiet night in.  Well, quiet after Little Miss got booted to bed.  She had been very tired all week, and the week culminated in a giant meltdown. 

On Saturday, she asked Husband to get up with her and proceeded to talk to him for 2 hours straight.  I slept in a little and then got up to meet a friend at the movies.  Because she was running late, I also had time to vote early for the election this year.  That was pretty awesome to get that out of the way with no line. 
After, Husband, Little Miss and I went to my sister's place.  Little Miss and Nephew had a blast together.  He got a new loft-style bed and was eager to show that off.  Little Miss loved it (briefly until she was stuck at the top and was a little too scared to come down and needed her daddy).  My parents and my sister's boyfriend arrived later.  We had some Chinese delivery and chatted.  Little Miss opened a birthday present from my parents and played some video games.  We left very late, but it was a good night.

On Sunday, I expected a meltdown.  Little Miss went to bed very late the night before and didn't really sleep in, but I promised her she could come out with me.  So, we went to an early lunch for book club.  It was dim sum and Little Miss doesn't eat Chinese food so she patiently sat there while we ate.  Then, we went to Target so she could spend her $10, and we could pick up various other items.  After, it was late, and Little Miss really wanted breakfast for lunch so we hit IHOP.  She was the most excellent girl all day.  When we got home, it was probably around 3:30.  We made 2 batches of cookie dough and then I carved Snow White and her apple out of a pumpkin and made dinner.  I did bath time and then Husband helped with the bedtime routine before I rolled and baked way too many cookies.  They were pretty darned photogenic though - and tasty.  Surprisingly, Little Miss was fantastic on Sunday with little sleep.  I, on the other hand, missed my weekend naps.  A lot.  In my defense, my crankypants are super comfortable.
 

Weekend Update - A Little Bit of Everything

Last weekend, we started the weekend on Friday with dinner with the In-laws, Brother-in-Law, Sister-in-Law and Nephew.  It was a yummy dinner.  Then, we went back to the In-laws apartment for some dessert.  We were all super tired, and Little Miss fell asleep on the way home.  The sad thing is that it wasn't that late.

On Saturday, I had lunch plans with the girls while Husband took Little Miss to a birthday party.  The weather was very overcast, but the kids didn't mind. They were hopped up on candy and running around.  I met them there when I was done with lunch.  It was a quiet evening followed by an even quieter Sunday.  

On Sunday, I slept gloriously late and was only awakened when pancakes were ready.  After pancakes, I sat on the couch for what seemed like forever.  After most of the day, I showered, and Little Miss and I went grocery shopping.  That pretty much summed up my Sunday as we moved to start a new week.

Happy Birthday, Little Miss!

Big birthday wishes to our Big Girl!

We have a 6 year old. That blows my mind. The recent fact that when the next one is 6, this one will be in her last year before becoming a teenager blew my mind so much last week that I refuse to think about it. Regardless, the big party is this weekend, but Little Miss squeezed into her birthday shirt today. She probably won't let me put her in birthday shirts next year. She brought in birthday sugar cookies to school. She requested Elmo, Cookie Monster and Oscar cookies which even I thought was a little juvenile, but it's what she wanted. I even let her have one for breakfast because, hey, it's her birthday. I also bought her a big cupcake so we can sing later tonight. Traditionally, she gets cake and the whole nine yards for her birthday party, but ever since her first birthday, she's gotten a cupcake on her actual birthday.

More on the weekend later, but she got $10 from the Inlaws, and I let her spend it at Target. One of the many items she bought was a party hat. She's very excited to wear it tonight. I drew the line at wearing it to school. Husband is also leaving work to start on her favorite dinner tonight - a lemon chicken over pasta or, as she calls it - chicken, pasta and lemony sauce.

Weekend Update - Long Weekend

Last Thursday was our 14th anniversary.  To celebrate, we both forgot.  I actually texted mid-morning.  That night, I went to bowling and then the next day, Little Miss and I went out of town for the long weekend.  I suppose my anniversary present to Husband was that he didn't spend a long weekend with my family. 

On Friday, I hit massive traffic going to my parents' house so Little Miss and I could join them and my Sister, her boyfriend and Nephew on a trip to their vacation house in western Maryland.  We got up there late on Friday after stopping for a quick bite along the way.

On Saturday, the kids woke up early and entertained themselves.  After we all woke up, we had breakfast and then went to a friend of my parents for the day.  We watched the big Autumn Glory parade and ate a lot of food (well, I did, I can't speak for everybody).    We pretty much did nothing when we got home, but I went to bed early.

On Sunday, the kids woke up early again.  We got ready to go to the top of the mountain and have a pumpkin race.  We did not win.  Little Miss and Nephew had fun running around and eating junk food.  It was a little on the chilly side, but we all had fun.  After, I napped a bit while we all took it easy after a quick trip to Wal-Mart.  That night, the kids slept together in the loft for the first time.  It was a success overall, I believe.  They really got along overall really well.

 

On Monday, we went to the mountain and the kids rode the mountain coaster numerous times.  It's Little Miss's favorite part of the weekend.  They also played on the playground before we packed up to go home.  The trip home took awhile between bathroom breaks and food, but it was a good weekend.  The cousins are already missing each other hard, any bickering a thing of the past.  I'm going to need time to recover, but I hit the ground running instead.

PITA

I'm just going to call this Little One PITA because he or she is a giant Pain In The Ass already.  Because of my "advanced maternal age" (read:  I'm old), we had to do some genetic screening as statistically I'm more at risk for a bunch of chromosomal abnormalities.  So, we had the Nuchal Translucency ultrasound and blood test.  The good news is that it came back normal or within normal range.  There will be another round of testing later.

Still, every single time we tried to get the reading of the baby, the little PITA would just turn right around and show us his or her backside.  No matter where we put the camera!  Hopefully, he or she will be more accommodating when we look for gender or after he or she is born, but I'm sure this is a sign of things to come.  Send help.

Weekend Update - This is Fall?

The first weekend in October was a lot of fun.  We had dinner with the In-laws at Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law's apartment.

On Saturday, we met Brother-in-Law, Sister-in-Law and Nephew at the pumpkin patch.  It was about the same temperature as the sun so we didn't stay long, but Little Miss slid down the slides, jumped on the bounce house, played on the playground and did the corn maze (the last with some supervision).  Then, we went to lunch at Matchbox to try to cool off.  Little Miss had a surprise sleepover with Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law while I met friends at Rasika West End for some really delicious Indian food.  I got home very late and it was nice to know I could sleep in.

On Sunday, I picked up Little Miss, and the two of us took a lengthy nap instead of clean the apartment.  Good Sunday indeed.

Week 12

So, I'll move to come (maybe tonight), but here is the update of approximately where the baby is this week or you can click here for more.

 

"Things are changing fast. You’re reaching the home stretch of the first trimester (we know, finally!) at 12 weeks which means your hormones are likely to tone things down a bit -- which might make you feel a little less emotional! And it will probably help the symptoms subside a bit, too. One warning though: your morning sickness and fatigue might get replaced by headaches and dizziness. But we think that’s a reasonable trade-off. The other big change? Baby’s almost done developing her body’s important systems and parts, which means, it’s mostly about getting bigger and more mature from here on out. Around week 12, you might want to know more about baby, so you’re probably having genetic testing done to determine her risk of birth defects or other problems. This can be a little scary -- and confusing -- so be sure to ask your OB plenty of questions, and know that it’s much more likely baby’s A-OK than anything else." - from the link above on TheBump.com.

 

More on genetic testing in a later post.

Big Sister, Big News

When we were in Wildwood, we confirmed that we were expecting another baby. It was in our overall plan to have a second. I wanted to have a second before I turned 40 and if it didn't happen, we were pretty content with one. I don't know if I would have chosen this exact moment, but I'm getting used to the idea. Regardless, Little Miss is thrilled. I think she's a little unhappy with the fact that I can't carry her or rough house as much, but she is excited about the prospect of having a sister and is not 100% against the idea of a brother though the excitement level is much, much lower over that possibility. We told her early on before our families, and she was a pretty fantastic secret keeper.

I've felt ok, mostly blah.  I haven't felt poorly, just not that great.  The fatigue is fun and even more fun with a 6-year-old, but she's been great and so understanding.  It makes me glad I waited, and I know she'll be a big help even if she has moments of impatience or jealousy.  I'm starting to feel a little better so hopefully I can usher in the second trimester with a little less fatigue and crankiness.

So, in the almost 2 months since we found out about the news, we've seen the doctor many times. I spotted early on which led to an emergency doctor's visit at which point the doctor viewed nothing on the ultrasound which did freak me out a little bit. We went in for a proper ultrasound the following week which yielded a baby and a heartbeat which settled my nerves. Because I had gestational diabetes and was on insulin last time, I also had to take the education class again to monitor my blood throughout this pregnancy versus only in the last 8-10 weeks. This does not make me happy because I really love me carbs. The diet consists of 3 small meals and 3 snacks throughout the day and testing my blood sugar 4 times a day. I just remind myself that it was a great way to maintain a pretty awesome pregnancy weight despite my craving for carbs constantly. As with last time, my resting numbers are high (my morning results are consistently high). Hopefully, I don't end up on insulin again, but it wasn't so bad the last time.

This week is the test to see if we are at risk for any genetic anomalies though it looks like the test could yield a false negative or a false positive. Fantastic. This part is new for us because I'm old (or Advanced Maternal Age).  Anyway, if you're playing the home game, below is the information of the baby this week or you can click here:

Movies Watched in September 2013

1. Hotel Transylvania

It was kind of pathetic this month. I watched Hotel Transylvania on cable one afternoon. It was cute. I don't see any more movies in my October future, but who knows? I blame the return of Fall television.

Books Read in September 2013

1. The Twelve by Justin Cronin (NOTE:  This is part of The Passage trilogy.)
2. Sometimes a Rogue by Mary Jo Putney  (NOTE:  This is part of The Lost Lords series. The order of which can be found here.
3. Thankless in Death by Cherise SinclairJ.D. Robb (NOTE:  This is part of the In Death series - the order of which can be found here)
4. Always on My Mind by Jill Shalvis (NOTE:  This is part of the Lucky Harbor series - the order of which can be found here.)
5. So Tough to Tame by Victoria Dahl. (NOTE: This book is part of the Jackson series. The order of which can be found here.)

The Twelve is a monster of a book. I didn't think I'd get much more in, but I switched to romance and cranked out a few more. I needed something light to balance out The Twelve and Thankless In Death. Both were pretty bleak. Still, all the books were pretty solid.

Weekend Update - Busy Busy Bees

The last Saturday in September, Little Miss and I did a lot especially when you consider we had no nap at all.  We got up and got ready.  Little Miss rode her bike to Clarendon, down the road a bit.  She rode some rides and tried some Spanish chicken.  I had paella.  We ate a lot of junk food and then she did the jumpy castle.  Little Miss got lots of giveaways and ran into 4 friends from school.  Then, we walked home.  At home, we got ready quickly to go right back out - after a very quick nap.

Husband was out at a friend's house and came home to pick us up.  My parents were in Florida during their 40th wedding anniversary so we promised them a night out.  We took them to Bonefish which wasn't fine dining, but it was good and allowed us to bring the kids.  My parents were watching Nephew so he got to occupy Little Miss.  After, Little Miss had an impromptu sleepover with Nephew at my parents' house.  

On Sunday, I slept late and then drove out to pick up Little Miss.  It was a really fun weekend for all.  So fun, there are no pictures except for one on my phone of Little Miss housing mini donuts covered in powdered sugar.

Weekend Update - ARRRRRR!

We're playing a little catch up again. The third weekend in September, we found ourselves in Georgetown on a pirate ship! We went with a couple of other families including Brother-in-Law, Sister-in-Law and Nephew. Little Miss dressed in my old pirate costume which, sadly, wasn't that big on her. She played limbo, got her face painted, and got tattooed. After, most of us went to lunch and then we went home to nap. All that pillaging and plundering took a lot out of us!

We sadly didn't do much the next day at all. It was a pretty good weekend. Husband's friend and father came over for football, but we mostly just hung out, watched football and napped. Can't ask for more on a Sunday.

Weekend Update - Sleepover!

Last weekend, we watched Nephew overnight while Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law had plans. He arrived on Saturday morning. Husband and I took the kids to our indoor pool. Then, we served lunch at which point the kids were tuckered out so we all had a nap. They woke up an hour or so later, I believe, maybe longer (hard to tell when I was napping, too). Then, we went to the playground. We came home and had dinner. We did a bath and the kids went right to bed. There were some giggling from the bedroom which was adorable, but the kids went to bed quickly on their own.

On Sunday, the kids and I took a walk to get a bagel for Husband. We also hit up the bakery so I could spoil the kids a bit. They liked the time outdoors and were really good. They played when we got home until it was time for Nephew to go home.

After, Little Miss and I walked them out and went to our car to run errands. We hit Home Depot and Chipotle and the grocery store. I got talked into growing lettuce for the elementary school so we needed everything to grow lettuce. We bought a window box, dirt and a second pot to replant my basil that I had been killing for months. Then, I got hungry and snuck in some food before going to grab some food for lunches this week.

When we got home, Little Miss helped pour dirt into the pots and plant seeds. She watered and then asked where the plants were. She gets her patience from me. We should see sprouts in a couple of days. I wouldn't be surprised if we don't, but we're supposed to.

Weekend Update - Books, Friends and Family

The first week of September brought book club!  I met the book club at a restaurant where we actually discussed the book and ate a delicious dinner.  We took it easy during the day.  I think the first week of school took a lot out of us, and we were all a little on edge.

 On Sunday, we went to my Sister's house and hung out.  It was a glorious day, and the kids just wanted to stay inside and play.  So, we played Chutes and Ladders.  I lost by a lot.  Nephew won.  We snacked and then we convinced the kids to go to the playground.  They had a lot of fun.  After, Sister's boyfriend came and we all went to Coldstone Creamery for ice cream.  It was a nice way to cap off a weekend.

Movies Watched in August 2013

1. We're the Millers
2. A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas

It was a very light movie month.  Mostly because I binge-watched Breaking Bad until I caught up for the new season.  We're the Millers was in the theater, and it was worth it.  It was really funny and enjoyable.

Books Read in August 2013

1. Under the Mistletoe by Jill Shalvis (NOTE:  This is part of the Lucky Harbor Series. You can find the order in which to read it here.)
2. Can't Stand the Heat by Louisa Edwards  (NOTE:  This is part of the Recipe for Love series. The order of which can be found here.
3. Doms of Dark Haven by Cherise Sinclair, Sierra Cartwright and Belinda McBride. (NOTE:  This is part of the Mountain Masters & Dark Haven series - the order of which can be found here, the Hawkeye series - the order of which can be found here, and the Truckee Wolves series - the order of which can be found here.)
4. Doms of Dark Haven 2: Western Night by Cherise Sinclair, Sierra Cartwright and Belinda McBride. (NOTE:  This is part of the Mountain Masters & Dark Haven series - the order of which can be found here, the Hawkeye series - the order of which can be found here, and the Truckee Wolves series - the order of which can be found here.)
5. Don't Hex with Texas by Shanna Swendson. (NOTE: This book is part of the Enchanted, Inc. series. The order of which can be found here.)
6. Double Time by Olivia Cunning. (NOTE: This book is part of the Sinners on Tour series. The order of which can be found here.)
7. Three Little Words by Susan Mallery. (NOTE: This book is part of the Fool's Gold series. The order of which can be found here.)
8. Wicked Beat by Olivia Cunning. (NOTE: This book is part of the Sinners on Tour series. The order of which can be found here.)
9. Fool's Gold Cookbook by Susan Mallery. (NOTE: This book is part of the Fool's Gold series. The order of which can be found here.)
10. The Fault In Our Stars by John Green

It was a better month than I expected. Pretty decent books. I read the last two of the Sinners on Tour books out of order which irked me. I don't know if it made a difference in the long run though. The great part of Fool's Gold Cookbook is it is an actual cook book with a story between recipes. I would have liked more of the story, but the food looks pretty darned tasty.  The Fault in Our Stars is also not a good public read.  There was some public crying involved.

Kindergarten

We have a kindergartener. Seriously.  It is mind-blowing.  We were lucky, too, because she got a bonus year of preschool.  With a birthday in late Fall, she missed the cut off so she's one of the older Kindergarteners.  She had a new backpack from my parents, a new outfit from Target that she picked out all by herself and new sneakers that she picked out with Husband.  If you enlarge the picture, she said she wanted to be Spiderman when she grows up.  

The first week of school was a raving success.  She has a couple of fellow Kindergarteners at her bus stop and has many friends in her class and at extended day.  Everyday, she comes home full of stories about her new friends and all that she is learning.  It is so great that she loves school so much.

Weekend Update - September

I had trouble believing it was September already.  We got back from the beach with our mountain of laundry.  That Monday, there was one last school playdate.  Little Miss got to meet some of the kids in her homeroom and some other kids who would be in extended day with her.  I think it helped a lot once school started.  There were some familiar faces and close friends already.  We shut the playdate down and then I went back to nap.  The playdates take a lot of me!

Vacation Update - Wildwood

On Thursday, we hit Open House at the elementary school.  Little Miss got to meet her teacher and some other children.  She loved it and was so excited to start school.  She was almost disappointed that wasn't the first day of school and that we had to go on vacation.  She got over that quickly though.

The first day, we got a short time at the beach, but it was super windy.  It was still nice to be on the beach though!   It was windy the next day, too, but the sun was out so it wasn't too bad. 

 Friday night, we hit the Boardwalk because Little Miss loves the rides.  She rode on many before the fireworks - which were cancelled because of the wind.  It was still a lot of fun though.  Saturday was a quiet day just at the beach and then at the pool.  Sunday, we packed up and drove home - but not before we hit the Boardwalk one last time!  Little Miss got to ride the rides she missed the first time - including the Ferris Wheel, her favorite.  She also got to play a carnival game.  We ate lunch and bid farewell to the beach until next year.

Weekend Update - Rounding out August

The second to last weekend in August was really fun.  We had a mentor for the elementary school who had some neighbors who also had children entering kindergarten.  The four families got together for a playdate.  The boys and girls stayed pretty separated.  The girls didn't even play until the very end of the playdate.  During the playdate, we discovered that there was a school-wide playdate for existing families (and new families if they found out somehow).  So, Little Miss and I grabbed some lunch and then went back to the playground.  She played very closely with the little girl from the morning and met some new friends.  It was exhausting for all of us!

On Sunday, I met with my friends for pedicures, lunch and a movie.  It was a lot of fun.  Girl time is always very important and relaxing.  My pedicure lasted a long time, too.  I just recently took it off to repolish.

It was a short week as we went on vacation!