And Baby Makes Three

Along Came Baby is making a move

2009-04-22T16:08:00.000-07:00

Along Came Baby is making the move away from Blogger.

Come visit us at our new website, MissionMotherhood

We're celebrating in grand style with our first giveaway! So, come check out our new website. If you have us bookmarked or in your RSS feed, don't forget to make the change to: www.missionmotherhood.com

3 months down

2009-04-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, the time is flying. Everyone said it would, but I had no idea how right they were.

At three months Grayson:

weighs about 12.5 lbs
wears size 1 diapers
wears mostly 3-6 clothes, but still fits in to some 0-3 outfits.
is finally getting hair on the top of his head. It's a lighter, reddish color than the hair he was born with.
is sleeping 10-12 hours each night, but has given up any real naps during the day. He prefers 4 short (15-20 minute) power naps instead.
has really figured out how to use his voice. He babbles up a storm on the changing table and when we sit him up on our laps. He tries to mimic the inflections in our voice, which is hilarious when he starts screeching.
is laughing pretty regularly now. He squints his eyes when he finds something particularly funny. He also screeches when he laughs.
smiles instantly when he sees mom and dad.
is starting to really understand how his fingers work. He'll actually reach for toys in front of him and will grab on as long as the object fits in his tiny palm. If the toy is too wide, he'll just bat at it.
is a pinching machine. It hurts!
knows that he has feet, but doesn't quite know what to do with them. Occasionally he'll grab a toe, but he hasn't tried to put them in his mouth just yet.
is REALLY close to rolling over from his tummy to his back. He can get slightly more than halfway before his bottom arm stops the progress.
does NOT like to be sitting still. If we're holding him and sit, it's over. If we're in the car and not moving, scream city. Same goes for the stroller or if I try to put him in the swing when he's awake. He wants nothing to do with anything that isn't actually moving.

Well hello Mr. Bun E. Rabbit

2009-03-25T21:57:00.000-07:00

I have always thought the giant Easter Bunny and Santa characters at the mall were exceptionally creepy. What kind of person wants to dress up as a bunny and let small children maul him all day long? Only the kind that show up on certain predator websites... If you asked me 2 years ago, I would have told you that I didn't need to pay the high school student $30 to snap a quick photo of my kid on some over-sized stuffed animal to get good holiday pictures. Oh how times have changed...

Well, I've demolished another one of my "I will never" ideals and I took Grayson to see the Easter Bunny. I mean, I already had the Janie and Jack outfit and goofy hat - so I kind of had to, right?

I do have to admit, it was just as creepy as I expected. But it was worth every penny.

Happy 2 months Grayson!

2009-03-21T08:15:00.001-07:00

At 2 month, Grayson:

weighs 11lbs 5.5oz (50% - up from 9lbs 5.5oz at 1 month)
is 22 3/4 inches long (50%)
has a 15 cm HC (Only 10% - poor guy!)
still has VERY blue eyes that keep getting lighter. I'm really hoping they stick around. Koka's eyes are so striking.
is wearing size 1 diapers and solidly fits into 0-3 month clothing. Although, Sometimes I put him into 3-6 month outfits because I didn't buy nearly enough small clothes.
is smiling frequently, especially when he sees me. It melts my heart
has started doing a 'half laugh' when he's amused. His little shoulders shake up and down while he coos.
Still loves his play gym and talking to the hanging animals. He bats at the two monkeys until he can grab one of the legs. Then he swings it around for a good 2 minutes.
Still likes tummy time and is getting REALLY close to rolling from his tummy to his back. Some days he makes it all the way to his side before falling back on his stomach. (I'm not ready for him to roll yet!)
Has found his hands and discovered that they taste pretty good. He some how manages to get most of his fist in his mouth - but hasn't figured out how to suck on just a finger.
Is sleeping for 8-10 hours each night. I can't believe how lucky we are. Seriously... However, he wiggles a lot in his sleep so most nights I need to pop into the nursery to make sure he hasn't shimmied all the way down his sleep positioner leaving his face smashed against the foam!
Loves having his diapers changed and bath time. He smiles and coos the entire time. We think he's going to be one of those naked all the time toddlers.
Loves being in the Moby Wrap or SSC. Typically he falls asleep about 5 minutes after going in.
Is absolutely adorable.

The "How I remain sane" product list

2009-03-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

I may only be 2 months in to this whole motherhood thing, but I've already found a few lifesavers among the products I registered for. And I few I wasn't even schooled enough to know about!

Now, these are just my opinion, and I know a lot of you will find better things for you and your baby - but this is what worked for us.

1. Swaddle Me Blankets

Seriously a wonderful invention and slightly easier to use than the Miracle Blanket. This baby straight jacket helped tack on an extra 2 hours to Grayson's night time sleep. Plus, we have the fleece version, and it makes me feel like Grayson's staying warm.

2. The Moby Wrap

Hands down, my favorite product ever. Grayson is a huge snuggler and loves to be as close to me as humanly possible at all times. While I'm all for a snuggly baby - I also enjoy the use of my hands. The Moby gives me both! There is a slight learning curve to using it, but there are tons of great 'how to' videos on You Tube if you need a refresher. This is a good one. If you think the fabric choices are boring - there are plenty of CUTE options on etsy. If I need to use the Moby outside of the house, I just tie it on before I go to avoid getting any parking lot nasties on me.

3. Dwell Studio for Target Receiving Blankets

Cheap and perfectly square, these are fabulous for a nap swaddle and they look super cute covering the baby in the car seat. I have almost every variation.

4. Inclined sleep positioner

Considering how many other 'sleep' products are on my list - I must really appreciate the times baby is getting some shut eye. ;) This is another product that dramatically increased our sleep cycles. Grayson had a mild case of reflux when we first brought him home, and we think the incline made him feel better. We used this in the bassinet and now in the crib.

5. Summer Infant Video Monitor

I LOVE seeing the baby now that he's in the nursery. Something about seeing him wiggle about makes me happy - and I hear it only gets better as they get older and start talking and playing in the crib. Worth every penny.

6. Tiny Love Gymini

Watching Grayson talk to his monkeys and grab at the giraffe is seriously cute. Plus, I can plop him down on the mat while I pour myself some coffee without having to worry about him falling off of anything. Anything that allows me to grab a cup of coffee gets an A+.

7. Soft Structured Carrier

Ok, this one is more of a category than an actual product, but it's another one of my must haves. I'm currently using an older version of this Beco carrier. But I'm seriously contemplating getting a Butterfly II as well. This is my life saver when Grayson and I are out an about and I don't have the moby already tied on. There are quite a few places that just aren't stroller friendly (Hello grocery store!), and obviously I can't leave G in the car. I've heard good things about the Ergo and AngelPack, but I don't have experience with those.

8. Diaper Champ

This one is my husband's pick, but I have to agree. Poops = stink and somehow this contraption has managed to keep the smell completely out of the room. Plus, it has "champ" in the name and I can use my own bags. A big win all around.

9. Fisher-Price Swing

Can we say "Fabulous"? This is where Grayson gets in at least one of his day time naps. Not only do I get a little sleepy time out of him when he's in it - he seems to enjoy the mirror/mobile above him when he wakes up. Score! Plus, it's relatively quite and I have yet to need new batteries. I call this my 'shower chair'. Without it, I'm convinced I would be on day 56 with no shower...

10. Born Free Bottles

With Grayson's reflux issues we had a LOT of spit up and vomit. Think projectile nastiness. The only bottles that seemed to help were Born Free and Dr. Brown. Both are BPA free and had great venting systems. But with 5 parts to wash the Dr. Brown bottles were a PTA! Since the Born Free bottles had 1 less part, it won the bottle battle in our house.

That's it for us at the moment - but I'm sure the list will change over time.

Do you have any products that you just can't live without?

A day in our lives photo post

2009-03-10T21:47:00.001-07:00

I'm about three weeks behind on this one! Oops.

I took the challenge from a fellow blogger to document what a typical day looks like for us here. Unfortunately, I haven't had enough time to actually post about it until now - but seeing as how our days are still pretty much the same, I think it's ok.

Here is what we do everyday!

Slacker!

2009-02-27T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm quickly realizing that baby + lack of sleep + over-scheduled days = almost no internet time. I'm keep meaning to come back and update, and then life just keeps getting in the way.

I always imagined that I'd have a hard time being home with a baby. I'm a planner and I appreciate a good schedule, two things that I didn't think would mesh well with a new baby. But somehow I've ended up with the best of both worlds. I'm home with my baby - and I have a schedule! Monday we walk with my mom's group, Tuesday is Itsy Bitsy Group and lunch, Wednesday's free, Thursday is either a drop-in workshop or baby music class, and Friday is a 0-3 month group.

I love it.

I have no idea how I'm going to be able to go back to work...

I have stroller envy!

2009-02-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

Now, it's not cheap, but the Orbit Baby System is seriously cool! The straps om the infant seat are flexible, so you can hold it close to your body (Ergonomic!), the seat rotates 360 degrees in the base so you can get baby in and out easily, and it folds up with one hand! Plus, it turns easily and actually comes with a cupholder. (Stupid bugaboo doesn't.)

And the coolest part - it was made by two geeky fathers. I love it. And I seriously want one!

Grayson is a month old...

2009-02-20T09:18:00.000-08:00

At 1 Month Grayson is:

9lbs 5.5 oz (35%) Up from 7lbs 4oz at birth.
22 1/4 in (75%)
14cm HC (25%)
is wearing newborn size diapers and a combination of newborn and 0-3 month clothing. We had to store his preemie outfits that he wore in the first two weeks and already one newborn sized sleeper
is a big eater. This little guy can mow through 4 oz like it's nothing.
is starting to lose what little hair he had on the top of his head. Hopefully it's the only time in his life that he'll have male pattern baldness.
loves his swing when we turn on the 'nature noise'. Maybe he'll be a fan of birds?
has greyish blue eyes that are getting lighter and and more blue ever day. I hope he'll have Koka's eyes.
is starting to smile, but only on his schedule. Usually I can get a smile or two in the morning during diaper changes.
has a habit of peeing all over during diaper changes. I think he's going for distance... He's peed on me exponentially more than Koka.
loves bath time. We are now giving him on every night before he goes to bed.
is sleeping between 4-6 hours at a time during the night. (In his own crib!) Usually from about 10pm to 5am.
only likes tummy time when we do it on my chest. Then he looks at me and coos. It is ridiculously cute.
likes to be in the moby, but is still fighting the sling
falls asleep almost instantly during car rides or when the stroller is moving. He just loves the motion.

My little guy is already a month old, that's crazy!!

Smiley Joe

2009-02-14T09:45:00.001-08:00

I've been trying for the last few days to get a picture of Grayson smiling. Sadly, I haven't been incredibly unsuccessful. But, even if I can't get them on film - I'm enjoying them in the flesh.

Here is the best I could capture - 3 weeks 5 days:

Sadly, I tried to get too close - and ended up with Cross-eyed Joe

Too cute.

Best Yoga class EVER.

2009-02-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

As Grayson and I adjust to life together, we've been trying to find different ways to spend the days. This week we decided to check out Baby Yoga at Day One. Seriously, it was the cutest thing I've ever seen.

Grayson and his friend Dane had a blast.

The class was based on this series by Helen Garabedian. I recommend picking up the DVD! As much as I love all of the yoga classes I've taken in my life, this was by far the most fun.

Breastfeeding kicked my ass – and other musings

2009-02-03T19:29:00.000-08:00

I’ve been stewing on this post for a few days now, but I needed to deal with some of my own guilt and emotional issues first. This is heavy stuff, people.

Clearly, from my previous posts, one can assume that I am severely type A. I like organization. I appreciate being able to classify things in my life. I research things that are important to me and I generally succeed at the things I put my mind to. I didn’t have a doubt in my mind that I would succeed at breastfeeding.

But I failed.

My sweet baby has Clampdown Bite Reflex. Some children grow out of it quickly, for others it takes a long time. Unfortunately for us, it prevented Grayson from gaining enough weight. And two weeks later, it’s still preventing him from feeding at the breast. He just can’t get enough milk from me. It also doesn’t help that I have severe supply issues. As in, I have none.

Everyday I try to feed him, fail, and say I’m done. I say I’m going to give up the good fight and just formula feed. And then every day, the guilt starts all over again.

I think most people assume that breastfeeding will go well. It seems like something that should be intuitive. The baby comes out knowing how to suck, so why don’t we instinctually know how to offer them our boobs? Why doesn’t it work for everyone?

There is no way for me to summarize my struggles with breastfeeding into one post. I just have to know that I really did give it my best shot, and I have to be ok with the fact that it didn’t work. And it won’t magically work tomorrow.

I know there are moms out there that will judge me, but I wanted to give everyone out there that also tried, and failed, that they are not alone. This is tough stuff. And just because breastfeeding didn't work out the way I had hoped, doesn't mean that I am not willing to do everything I can for my son.

There is so much more to write – but I just can’t do it.

What motherhood looks like at 2 weeks

2009-01-31T20:44:00.000-08:00

Could be worse!

Grayson's birth story - LONG

2009-01-29T13:24:00.000-08:00

100 points if you make it to the end.

I didn’t go into labor until the 16th, but Grayson’s birth story starts on Tuesday, January 13th. I motivated myself to walk the 3 miles around the reservoir near my house with a girlfriend and spent pretty much the entire hour bemoaning my severely pregnant state. I was so miserable that the baby wasn’t here yet, and convinced that I would be pregnant all the way until the 42 weeks the OB allowed before forcing an induction. On one hand, I really wanted the “natural” birth experience (ahem – natural with a side of epidural of course…), but on the other hand I wanted thus kid OUT and the induction date couldn’t come soon enough.

After the walk, I came home thinking that I was leaking amniotic fluid. I wasn’t sure if that was really the case or if maybe it was just wishful thinking, but I high tailed it to the doctor to have the situation assessed. I was 39 weeks pregnant exactly, and according to the doctor, 2cm dilated (maybe even 2.5), and 60% effaced. It was progress, so I wasn’t going to complain. However I wasn’t currently leaking fluid. I had leaked at some point, but it appeared that the bag of waters had either healed itself, or baby’s head was keeping it closed. I was out of the danger zone for the moment, but now an induction date was in my near future. The baby would be served his eviction notice on January 24 – if he wasn’t here before then.

On Wednesday, at lunch with a girlfriend, I decided that I wanted the baby here that coming Friday. (January 16th) I only had a few old wives tales left to try, but I was going to somehow make it happen. I focused on positive visualization, Sun Tsu style. If I visualized it enough, maybe he really would come. SOMETHING had to work. I picked up some Blue and Black Cohosh and even some **gasp** castor oil and spent the next day and a half bouncing on the yoga ball.

After dinner on Thursday, I knew something was different. I felt twinges of something in my lower abdomen when I was on the ball and just generally felt ‘off’. I did not want to jinx myself and think of the L word, so I just took a shower and went to bed as usual.

At 1:30, I woke up knowing I was in labor. My contractions weren’t consistent yet, but they were completely different from the millions of Braxton Hicks contractions I’d had in the previous few weeks. I probably should have rolled over and tried to get some sleep, but my completely vain self decided I should flat iron my hair while I had the chance. (Looking back, I really can’t believe that was priority of mine!) By the time the 15 minutes of primping had passed, I was actually forced to concentrate on breathing through the contractions.

At 2:30, I couldn’t stand through the contractions and I needed Koka to help me time them. And to help me deal with the pain.

Now, I should also point out that I’d tried (unsuccessfully) to take some castor oil early in the day on Thursday. The few internet pages I found with instructions said to take about 2 tablespoons to ¼ cup on the nasty stuff to make it work. I got overly anxious in my haste to get it down and mistakenly only took 2 teaspoons. Needless to say, it didn’t work. But now, at 2:30 in the morning, I was terrified that Koka and I would rush off to the hospital only to be told I had bad intestinal cramping. Again, irrational, but I was pretty worried about it! I had no desire to be the lady who couldn’t tell the difference between labor and the runs.

Around 3:30, when my contractions were three minutes apart and lasting over 60 seconds, it was clear that this was the baby. I let Koka call the doctor and we started to head to the hospital. I think it took me about 10 minutes to get my pants on. Which is funny since all I did was strip them off the minute we got there…

Since I had pre-registered with the hospital, we got a room the minute we showed up. I do have a funny memory of one of the registration nurses trying to ask me who our pediatrician was in the middle of a contraction. She may have asked me 2 or 3 times before I actually asked her to “please stop talking to me”. Hopefully it came out as calmly as it sounded in my head.

I got into my labor and deliver room, stripped down, and got ready for the show to begin. At about 4:30, the nurse on duty did an internal and I was 4 cm dilated. The contractions were coming pretty fast and almost completely in my back, so I was pretty uncomfortable. I was pretty proud of myself for breathing through them and remaining completely calm, but I also knew that I wanted an epidural. The nurse checked me again after we hooked up all the monitors and I was already at a 5 and 85% effaced. (I had warned her that my mother’s labor was fast and furious) It may have helped with the pain if I could have walked around, but baby needed to be monitored since his heart rate kept dipping.

My new best friend, AKA the epidural man showed up at 5 and by 5:30, I was feeling great. The contractions I’d been feeling before the drugs now just felt like the Braxton hicks tightening again. I couldn’t feel the pain, but I’d gotten a low enough dose that I could feel ‘stuff’. Exactly what I wanted. The only exception being that my right leg was completely dead weight. They assured me that that sensation would eventually fade, and it did.

Koka and I figured it would be a while at this point, so we did our best to get some rest. I’m pretty sure I slept until about 7:30 when the nurses had a shift change. They checked me again around 8:30 or 9 and I was at 7 cm. I was so excited for progress, and thought for sure I’d be having this child by lunch time.

Not so much.

I stalled at 7 cm for quite a while and eventually my OB decided to break my water and see how much further my body would progress on it’s own. I honestly have no idea why, but after they broke my water I broke out into cold sweats and thought I was going to blow chunks all over myself. The nasty feeling lasted about 20 minutes. So bizarre.

The rest of the day passed completely uneventfully. Koka and I watched an insane amount of television. Really, the worst part of my ‘transition phase’ was how hungry I got. Ha! I feel so guilty for such an easy labor.

Around 4:30, I started to feel the urge to push during my contractions. I knew that eventually I’d have that feeling consistently, so I held off calling the nurse. By 5, I knew this kid was coming out. When the nurse checked, and confirmed that I was ready to go, I reminded her once again that my mother popped me out VERY quickly. And while I had no idea if I would have a similar experience, I wanted them to be prepared.

Unfortunately, my OB had gone into to perform a C-section. I kept hearing that he’d be out in 5-20 minutes, so we called our family and told them to get to the hospital. My nurse was really wonderful, but I’m pretty sure she had no idea what she was getting into with me. Around 5:30, with my OB still not available, I had Koka run to the nurses station and inform them that I thought my baby was going to fall out.

While she was in the room checking me out, I had a contraction with pressure so acute I was breathing through it. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have been able to avoid pushing. Mistakenly, she thought I was in pain and sent in the Epi man to push another dose of drugs through me. I was so focused on not pushing, I didn’t do a good job of telling the guy I wasn’t interested. At this point, after 14 hours of calm, I started to break down. I was crying to Koka that I needed to push, my lady bits were starting to burn, and I just wanted to get this child out of me.

A few minutes past 6:00, the nurse finally came back in to start doing practice pushes. When she sat down to get the show started, you could already see a small amount of the baby’s head. My OB made a brief appearance around this time, but quickly left when he thought I wasn’t close to delivery. I guess they let the nurses do most of the prep work?

At this point, I lost complete sense of time. I think I made it through 3 or 4 contractions of “practice pushing” before I felt what I can only describe as the Ring of Fire. Excruciating pain. And I had an Epi! Good lord. As soon as I started to yell that my vagina was going to explode, the nurse started to panic. She frantically pushed the call button on my bed to get an OB in the room, any OB at this point. When no one was available, she instructed me to “not push” and ran out of the room. Poor Koka, I just looked up at him and started bawling. I was in so much pain, and I knew that just one more push, and it would feel unbelievably better.

Once the nurse was back in the room, she was in my face helping me pant through the contractions so that I could keep the kid in a little bit longer. I have NO idea how long I panted. It felt like hours, but it was probably only a minute or two before my OB came RUNNING into the room. I just remember staring at the nurse’s mouth and trying to mimic her breathing. Koka remember’s the OB looking up and asking if we “were ready for a birthday party”. CUTE.

One more push, and the baby’s little head was out. The cord was wrapped around his neck, but the doctor quickly unwrapped him. Before long, his shoulders were out, and he was being placed on my chest. Grayson was born at 6:39pm. About 20 minutes after I started “practice pushing”.

I will never be able to articulate the feelings I felt at that moment. I remember a sting of “Oh my gods” escaping my lips. I remember looking up and seeing Koka with tears streaming down his face. And I remember this unbelievable amount of love I felt for this squirming, screaming child on my chest. It was surreal. He seemed so small and yet HUGE considering he had just come from inside of me.

From there, everything happened very quickly. I managed to do very little damage to my body, so my OB was out of the room very quickly. (Only one stitch!) The nursery nurse hadn’t made it into the room before I delivered, so we had to wait for her to come and take all of Grayson’s vitals. (9 and 10 APGAR scores!) And then they let our families in.

My delivery was better than I could have imagined. I was able to go into labor naturally, and Grayson came out quickly and happily. It was all so special, and so life changing. Cliched or not, I will never be the same.

Babies are quite the time suck, no?

2009-01-26T11:28:00.000-08:00

I've been working on my birth story (Holy 4 pages, Batman), but I'm not quite ready to post it yet. So in the meantime, here is some of the hilarity currently taking place at our house

Good times

I owe so much more than just a quick photo...

2009-01-21T21:12:00.000-08:00

But that is really all I can handle at the moment. Must. Get. Sleep.

I have officially been mommied!

2009-01-18T07:18:00.000-08:00

Just a quick iPhone update to let you all know that Grayson Parker has arrived. He debuted on Friday, Jan 16th at 6:39 pm weighing 7 lbs 4 oz.

He's perfect.

I'll be back with pictures soon!

Pregnancy Gas

2009-01-15T20:43:00.000-08:00

Since my husband thinks it's a-ok to twitter about my digestive system (I currently don't agree - but what do I know...), I thought I'd lighten the mood with a hilarious article about pregnancy gas.

At least his post is funny.

Pregnant Wife's Gas Drives Drives Husband Out of House

Retail Therapy

2009-01-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

It's a well known fact in our household that shopping makes me feel better. Unfortunately, since I currently have a gigantic stomach and sausage feet - shopping for me is pretty much not going to happen.

Koka, unless you're reading. Then I would REALLY like this. :) (Love you!)

Anyhoo. Since I can't enjoy shopping for me, I went a little crazy shopping for the little man. Here are a few things I picked up...

Such cute little man clothes!

Baby Sexton has been given his official eviction notice.

2009-01-14T10:50:00.001-08:00

Otherwise titled - my 39 week update.

Today, after the bean dog and I walked the 3 miles around the Reservoir near my house, I thought I might be leaking fluid. I called the OB just to if there was an easy way to tell fluid vs. normal discharge, but of course they had me come in.

It appears that I was in fact leaking fluid at some point, but I'm not currently leaking. The PH swab came back 'blue' but the microscope showed no ferning. Overall, this is good news, because if I'd ruptured my bag of waters - they would have induced me yesterday! The consensus is that my bag healed itself.

I did have some progress, which is good news. I was 1cm last week and 2.5 this week. And the baby has dropped. The doctor commented that he was "right there". So, given the favorable cervix, he swept my membranes... Not that it means all that much, but I'll take it.

Unfortunately, my OB told me they will no longer let me go until 42 weeks. My fluid levels are borderline low and they don't want to risk fetal distress or possible infection. So, I'm scheduled for an induction on 1/24 (40w4d) if I don't go on my own before then.

11 days people.

The nursery is finally done!

2009-01-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm still here. ;) I think I will be around until the bitter end....

But, in happier news, I'm finally finished with the nursery. (I'm sure I'll continue to tweak, since I'll forever be obsessed with home decor, but that's besides the point.)

So, anyway - here is the final masterpiece. And please note that I'm insanely pleased that I was able to manage a 7ft tree sticker entirely by myself. :)

I'm flickr incompetent - so I can't get anything labled, so here's the inventory

Crib and Dresser: Bonavita "Peyton" Collection
Dresser Organizer: Ikea Komplement System
Crib Bedding: Restoration Hardware (Mix and Match)
Artwork: Woodland Critters By John Golden
Tree: Nue Tree by Modern Wall Graphics
Frames for Artworks: Micheal's Home collection
Glider: Carter by Room and Board
Rug: Bridget Rug by Pottery Barn
Nightstand: Harrison Side Table by Bed Bath and Beyond
Lamp: Older Target Purchase
Shade: Fanning Flora Shade at Anthropologie
Curtains and Rods: Ikea
Dog Bed: Walmart

Fact or Fiction?

2009-01-06T19:47:00.001-08:00

Erica has predicted that Jan. 7th will the day baby makes his debut. I can only hope!!

Tomorrow is my 38 week OB appointment - so we'll see if there is any progress in there...

I was thinking about it tonight and it's funny to me the number of steps us severely pregnant ladies will make to get the baby out. Here's a list of some of the things people have suggested to me. (And no, I have not tried them all.....)

Caffeine
Raspberry Leaf Tea
Pineapple Core
Evening Primrose Oil
Castor Oil
Black Cohosh
Sex
Masturbation
Acupressure
Acupuncture

Now, I just have to decide what I'm willing to try next...

Updated Belly Pictures

2009-01-04T21:55:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've had the time to update the belly pictures. (I know, bad Meghan) Forgive me!

So, anyway, here is me last Tuesday at 37 weeks.

How am I feeling 16 days before my due date?

Overall - I'm ready to meet my little guy. As Renee posted on her blog - I feel like in the throws of Labor Watch 2009. LOL. Things are certainly happening in there. But, I'm not sure if it's just normal late term PG symptoms, or if labor is in fact in my not so distant future...

I'll spare the details for all you non-pg girls that are reading out there... but I make no promises for the next post.... so reader beware. TMI out the yin yang.

The Glider is here!

2009-01-04T14:59:00.000-08:00

Woot. Furniture excites me.

Another Wall decal option...

2008-12-30T21:55:00.001-08:00

And while I really love the Owl, at 4.5 feet tall, it's just too small...

Hopefully I can make the final decision this weekend since our Glider is scheduled to be here on Saturday!

Full Term, Full Term!!

2008-12-30T19:44:00.000-08:00

And ready for this baby to make his debut. :)

Hopefully the last of the nursery dilemmas

2008-12-28T22:15:00.000-08:00

I LOVE making progress. And this rooms, slowly but surely, is coming together.

Here it is with less crap on the floor and some drapes on the windows. (Yes, I still need to clean out the night stand!)

The question now, is what to put above the crib. Initially, we were going to put our four "critter" prints. But now those are going above the glider on the other side of the room.

(For reference, I ended up ordering the Bear, Opossum, Squirrel, and Weasel.)

I would imagine my best option is some kind of wall decal - and of course Etsy has a million options. Here is what I'm thinking for the Crib Wall:

Or, maybe something like this:

I'm a little worried I have too much going on in the room - but I need SOMETHING behind that crib.

Anyone have any ideas?

Completely late 36 week update

2008-12-26T20:55:00.000-08:00

Maybe I should just call it an early 37 week update. :)

I think it has finally hit us that this baby could be here at ANY time. I've been having fairly regular Braxton Hicks contractions for a few weeks, and now I'm getting irregular, but fairly uncomfortable "real" contractions. (Just nothing regular enough for me to get worked up over!) Now, this could be nothing. I could be pregnant for a total of 42 weeks and have an induction for this little guy makes his appearance, so I'm trying not to get my hopes up.

I do however have a lot to do - and I'd like to get it done FAST.

- Install the car seat (inspection Appt 1.8.09)
- Pack a hospital bag (Started!)
- Buy a lamp for the nursery
- Hang Prints and/or buy wall stickers
- ~~Hem curtains~~ DONE!
- Return baby's R us duplicates and buy some last minute odds and ends
- take care of some lady business at the salon (Appt. 1.3.09)
- ~~Touch up nursery paint~~ DONE!

Actually, now that the lists is written out, it looks doable!

I also only have 3 days left of work until Maternity leave. Holy sheet. I can't believe it.

Since I haven't posted pictures of me in a while. He's a pseudo 36 week picture from Christmas eve. (Do you like my childhood stocking at the bottom?)

I promise to take a better one soon. And because of the kindness of Santa - I'm going to try to take a video of our little circus performer with our new Video Camera. Stay tuned.

Houston, we have progress

2008-12-22T21:42:00.000-08:00

Yes - there is still PLENTY of work left to be done. But now at least the exploding Babies R Us has been cleaned up:

I'm also ridiculously proud of my drawer organizers. How cute are all my itty bitty baby clothes?

I also really need to start taking pictures during daylight hours. Sorry for the horrible quality pictures.

My due date is ONE month from today.

2008-12-20T21:55:00.000-08:00

That, my friends, is nuts.

As a side note... This jumper is a monstrosity.

I've never seen anything so big. Between this and our swing - I'm not sure we're going to have any room to walk around in our house!

So that's what it looks like...

2008-12-19T23:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, Babies R Us has exploded in our nursery...

This weekend, my goal is to ORGANIZE.

Two posts in one day? Who knew...

2008-12-12T16:09:00.000-08:00

All you moms out there - Can you help me plan the nursery closet?

Koka and I decided to go with the Elfa system for the nursery closet since they have their big 20% off sale starting Christmas Eve. We've been working with a rep to plan the space, but since we don't have a child yet - it's hard to anticipate what we'll need.

Because we have limited drawer space in the dresser, getting drawers in the closet is very important to me. I'll store blankets and things like that in there.

We have sliding closet doors that make the space hard to divide - so keep in mind I can't really change the different columns - I can really only reconfigure the shelves/bars, etc.

That said, here are the three designs we like as of now. I'm also thinking I may add another hanging bar on the top left. I figure you can never have too much hanging space...

Can you tell me which configuration makes the most sense to you?

#1. This is the original design. It's the open elfa shelving and a movable tower of drawers. As I mentioned above, we'll probably add a 4th hanging rod on the top left.

#2. This is a slight modification of the original design to include solid white shelves. The drawers are 4" narrower to accommodate the dimensions required for solid shelving...

#3. This is with built in drawers vs. the tower. We lose some shelving to accommodate the drawer dimensions. To the left of the drawers will be a shoe organizer system. I really like the built in drawers, but I'm worried about sacrificing so much self space for them.

Option 4 would be "You're an idiot and you should do XYZ." :) You of course would need to provide the XYZ.

In contrast to my last post - these DO make me feel pretty...

2008-12-12T13:37:00.000-08:00

Just a few of my lovely maternity photos swiped from the lovely Jennifer Kloss. I will forever be referring to her as "The Miracle Worker".

Yup. I look HOT

2008-12-05T15:47:00.000-08:00

I'm rocking knee high compression stockings for my swollen feet. A maxium support bra with 2" straps and like 800 hooks. And full panel jeans.

Am I bringing sexy back, or what?

To my wonderful husband

2008-12-03T10:25:00.000-08:00

I owe you an appology. Pregnancy has made me a crabby snatch. I'm sorry.

I truly don't know what's wrong with me...

I'm so excited to have this baby and become a mom. I'm loving the holiday season. I have you, a wonderful husband, a super cute dog, and a great home. I have a mother who loves me and would do anything for me. I am surrounded by my girlfriends who all care about me. I have so much to be thankful for and happy about.

I don't know if it's hormones or what, but I know I've been a cranky nutcase lately. I hear this is normal, and I don't need professional help. So please, just be kind to me in the next 6 weeks. I promise at least try not to bite your head off. :)

However, all bets are off when the baby gets here and we're not sleeping. I think we should agree now to a truce during the first few zombie weeks. Just know I love you.

EEK. It's already December

2008-12-02T17:03:00.001-08:00

I am 33 weeks today. That's crazy talk. That means that I'm having a baby NEXT MONTH. I can't decide if I'm crazy excited, or just crazy scared... That little ticker to the right has less than 50 days. OMG.

Since I'm so bad at updating, I'll just recap my Long Thanksgiving weekend...

THURSDAY

I woke up early to start making Ashley's FABULOUS Butter Nut Squash Gratin and Martha's yummy spinach Gratin. (Both big hits this year!)
My mom held Thanksgiving this year at her house, so we packed up the car and headed over around 1
I had a class of red wine. My first this pregnancy - and it was HEAVEN. The baby promptly got hiccups...
Since my birthday is so close to Turkey day, my aunts always spring for a little something for me. This year they went in together to get me a pregnancy massage. I. Can't. Wait.
I found my first stretch marks. ((Shudder))

FRIDAY

Slept in until 8. This is VERY late for me these days. I can now only sleep until about 6am. So sad!
Watched ridiculously cheesy movies on FX. (I think it was the second Bring it On movie. Hilarity.)
Watched Koka set up the crib and dresser in the nursery!
Walked Lola and avoided all retail establishments
Had dinner with my Dad's family in San Francisco at a fun, hole in the wall Hunan Restaurant.

SATURDAY

My Birthday!! Koka was super sweet and got me a signed copy of the last Twilight Book - Breaking Dawn. He was so nervous to give it to me - but I love it. I really am ridiculously obsessed with that series... My mom scored me a FABULOUS new handbag. (She really has learned the way to my heart!)
Headed off to Ikea to pick up curtains and drawer organizers for baby's room
Had wonderful Indian food and saw the new James Bond Movie with Koka. I actually really enjoyed it. But, Daniel Craig didn't get nearly naked enough in this one. :)

SUNDAY

Had a minor panic attack surrounding how much I still have left to do for the nursery, so I called my mom in to help me run errands.
Moved the current rug from the guest bedroom/nursery to the master bedroom. Realized the Pottery Barn rug I ordered is way too small.
Ran to PB to return the rug and order the next size up
Went to the Container Store to price out closet systems for the nursery. (Holy $$$!)
Spent an unholy amount of time in Target buying Christmas presents, curtain rods, and giant Tupperware containers for project garage organization.
Went to bed at 8:00. :)

Hope you all had a wonderful (and long!) Thanksgiving weekend.

I am in LOVE with my girlfriends

2008-11-25T17:18:00.000-08:00

My wonderful friends threw me the worlds most spectacular baby shower over the weekend. I'm still in awe of their talent and creativity. I spent my entire ride home telling Koka how blown away I was, and how every single detail was truly perfect. Everyone was so generous, and Koka and I now have a living room full of fabulous baby goodies.

Here are just a few pictures of the shower. Really, there are no words...

No real updates

2008-11-24T13:05:00.001-08:00

Just a picture of me from last week.

31w1d

Looking large and in charge...

PSA - If you're pregnant

2008-11-20T16:40:00.000-08:00

If you're pregnant, and it feels like your labia may explode

You could have varicose veins of the vulva.

Just saying.

Oh, and if you have said pain - don't bring your DH to the OB appointment where you ask about it and your Dr tells you to invest in a "Vulva belt"... or female jock strap. Because if your DH is anything like mine, fun making will ensue.

Nursery purchases

2008-11-17T12:20:00.000-08:00

Well I may have been pretty absent from my blog over the last few weeks, but my credit card has been working hard!

K and I (ok, who am I kidding, mostly me) finally picked out and ordered a bunch of stuff for the baby's room. I'm giddy to start putting it all together. That is, after I finish painting the million inches of crown molding and window trim throughout the house - but that's a story for another day...

Anywho - here is what I've picked up:

This rug from PB. I went with the 5x8, which is little on the small side - but I'm hoping with all the furniture in, it will look fine.

Our glider from Room and Board. It was kind of a splurge - which is why I waited so long to get it. But I actually think it's cute enough that I can move it to another room in the house when baby outgrows the nursery. Of course, it won't be here until a week or so before baby is due. Just call me the queen of procrastination. :)

And I actually didn't get the ottoman. I got this super fun one instead. (I had a hard time gliding in the chair if I used the ottoman.) I need something more stable.

I found this picture a few months ago - and it's what gave me the idea. (Well the photo planted the idea. the fabulous Becki at SMC gave me the nudge I needed. Thank you Becki!)

Now, the closer I look at it - the more I think that's my glider in the picture...

I also picked up the bedding I think I like from RH Baby and child. But, I didn't want a white crib skirt - so I mixed and matched sets. I have NO idea if I'll like it when it actually gets here. We'll see. But since I'm just not sure how I feel - and Target was offering free shipping. I went ahead and pick up this set as well.

I actually like it a LOT better in person than in the picture. It's a really pretty light blue.

So, again. We'll see. One set HAS to go back.

Ok, really?

2008-11-16T17:43:00.001-08:00

Target has the Britex Marathon Carseat (in a nice normal grey color), for only $43. And free shipping.

~~Pick it up here before they're gone!~~

Ok, it looks like it's already gone. (Along with a video monitor they had listed for $12.94! I wish I knew about that one.)

Of course, the inwebs are blowing up saying it's an error Target will not be honoring. I guess I'll just have to wait and see.

I suck at blogging

2008-11-06T09:42:00.000-08:00

It's true. I'm lame.

Sadly, I'm only here to wish Heather and Jeffrey lots of love. And to ask that they find comfort after the tragic loss of their sweet baby Grace at 38 weeks.

I'll be back later when I'm better able to compose my thoughts.

Almost into the 3rd Trimester

2008-10-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

Holy Geebus. Where in the world did the last 6 months go?

I'm 27 weeks today and about to start on the end of this pregnancy. It's amazing to me how quickly it has all flown by - and really makes me stop and try to enjoy the rest of this experience. This little guy will be here before I know it. (Um, 3 months... hello!)

Here's what I looked like last week at 26 weeks exactly

And here, unfortunately, are what my feet look like. It's truly terrifying...

Thankfully, I'm still feeling really good. I haven't barfed in a month or so. I'm sleeping between the many nighttime bathroom breaks. (That god for Snoogle and dirty dreams...) And my energy is still holding strong. I'm LOVING the almost constant baby movement - even when it feels like someone is rearranging furniture inside my belly.

So far, I have to admit I'm one of the freaks that is really enjoying being pregnant. But I will also say, that I'm ready to meet this little guy.

Now, if only we could finally name him...

Funny

2008-10-12T20:15:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a riot. Thanks Staci for the link!

Movie Reviews

I don't know how that could possibly be true. :)

Bum Genius Sale

2008-10-06T15:56:00.001-07:00

I've been working on a large hippie post for a while. (This baby is turning me into a crunchy, granola loving mama to be!) I'm not quite ready to publish my other post - but in the meantime - if you're an earth mama (or earth mama to be!) pick up some Bum Genius 2.0 diapers from Amazon for only $12! That's almost 33% off!

Sadly, they only have pink left at that price... and I don't think Koka would appreciate me diapering our son in pink. :)

Onto the Glider...

2008-10-02T12:04:00.001-07:00

The baby related purchases are really starting to make a dent over here. (And we haven't even ordered the crib/dresser yet!)

The next on my list of must haves is a glider. I have a feeling I'll be spending A LOT of time in this bad boy... so not only do I want it to be pretty - it has to be comfortable. Add to that the fact that this will become extra seating in our home once the baby outgrows it, and you've got a recipe for stressed out Meghan.

Here is my absolute favorite glider ever made. It's the Carter Chair by Room and Board. I am in love with everything about it except for it's ridiculously high price tag. *sigh*

Babies 'R Us has a mildly similar (and much cheaper) version on their website - but I just don't know. I don't associate BRU with the highest upholstery quality... However, the cheap price and 15% off coupon I have may make it worth while!
The only other remotely doable option I've found is by Best Chair. Now, it's not quite as a sleek or streamlined as the Room and Board chair. But holy comfort, Batman. The downside of course is that it screams "baby" and is still on the higher side price side.

Oiy Vey. I'll never be a good decision maker!

Three years ago today...

2008-10-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

I married the most wonderful man.

And now we're starting a family. Life is good.

The Lola Bean

2008-09-27T23:09:00.000-07:00

Any of you that know me, know that I have a slight obsession with my dog. (Cause really, she's the best.)

I actually forget sometimes that I didn't birth her myself. :)

So, really, is anyone surprised that I was excited to spot this:

(Can you find the smooshy face?) So cute! Yes, my son now owns that sweater. (And another boston terrier sweater I found at Target - but can't find online.)

*sigh*

I've become one of those people...

Nursery - the final installment

2008-09-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Alright fokes a decision has been made. (Finally, right?)

And once again - we picked a design that wasn't on the initial list. :) Go figure.
Koka liked the softer yellow accents more than the bright orange, so I let him win this battle. (He's got to win sometimes, right?)

I went ahead and ordered the fabulously cute 'critter' prints from Etsy. Here is his full set:

We ended up with the Bees and the Bear from the first sheet, the Opossum from the second sheet and the Squirrel from the last sheet . (Although, watch out - I may pick up one or two more before the room is complete!) Plus, I scored and managed to grab frames and matting at Michael's during the 50% off sale last week. Woot. I can't wait until they arrive.

Happy Anniversary to us!

2008-09-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

Next Wednesday is my three year wedding anniversary. I can't believe how fast time has flown. And I'm marry the man again in a heartbeat.

In honor of our impending baby and in celebration of our marriage - we picked up this little beauty.

A VW Touareg

OK, it wasn't really an anniversary present - but now we're too broke to buy gifts. So I'm just telling myself that to make me feel better. :)

I'm feeling a little behind

2008-09-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

This whole 'having a baby' thing requires a lot more prep than I anticipated.

So far - my to do list only has one item:

Write to do list

I guess I should get on that?

Overdue 22 week update

2008-09-18T21:19:00.000-07:00

Sadly, I've been horrible at making regular updates in here. At the beginning of the pregnancy I bought a journal that I've been updating, so all is not lost, but I still wish I'd been better at keeping track of my progress. Oh well, too late now!

So far, so good with the little guy. I feel like I've been incredibly lucky to have such an uneventful pregnancy. I still feel really good, I have my energy all day, I'm able to eat pretty well - so long as I stick to smaller portions, and Koka is just doting on me. I feel blessed. The baby is looking healthy and he's kicking up a storm in my belly.

I think my favorite part of this pregnancy has been my new found ability to chill. (Not that you'd know it with all of my nursery posts!!) Some how I've managed to understand that the world will not stop if I forget my prenatals one night, or if I eat a crumbling of blue cheese on a salad. Koka and I are going to give cloth diapering a go - but I'm going to be totally ok if it doesn't work out. It just is what it is and for the first time in my life, I'm able to just go with it. I really, really hope this sticks with me after I have the babe.

And for prosperity sake - a photo:

Don't you love how my husband waited for me to get ready before he took the picture? :)

And, because I think it's funny. A comparison to me 6 weeks ago (At 16 weeks) ... when I thought I was HUGE - compared to me this week. LOL

I'm growing Big Foot.

2008-09-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

Seriously, it's no joke:

Another one...

2008-09-13T18:50:00.001-07:00

Nursery idea boards

2008-09-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

Just gathering some ideas...

And I found this after I'd already gotten started:

Things no one tells you...

2008-09-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

Let me preface with the fact that I'm a pretty happy pregnant lady. So far - I've enjoyed the experience. That said, why didn't anyone tell me about these things!?

Gas.
Seriously, the worst gas of your life when you're knocked up. I think I could single handedly kill a room full of puppies if I let one of these toxic farts loose in a room with no windows. I'd be proud of myself if I wasn't so worried that people will think I'm dead inside.

Body Hair.
WTF. After years of shaving, waxing, plucking and threading my body is now growing hair at an alarming rate. If you left me on an island for only 2 weeks, I highly doubt you would recognize me as the wilda-beast frantically trying to get you to take me home. You would run scared. And I wouldn't be able to blame you.

Swelling actually hurts.
I expected to see my ankles disappear. I was fully prepared for that. But I had no idea that I'd want to actually chop off my feet at the end of the day.

Hungry full.
Ok, I made that name up. But it's true. My uterus has to be to blame for the fact that I'm famished even when I can't physically fit one more morsel in my belly. I can only eat bird sized portions these days - and then I'm stuck staring longingly at plate knowing full well that if I attempt one more bite, I will upchuck.

Nursery Decorating

2008-09-07T10:54:00.000-07:00

Since I can't decide on bedding - I started looking at prints. Here are some great ones I found on Etsy.

Super cute ABC prints by Lindsayart

Critters by Creative Thursday

Animal illustrations by GumballGrenade

Adorable bird prints by Barking Bird Art

And something totally different and hilarious. "By Order of the Management" prints by John W Golden

Although, he also has some slightly more traditional nursery prints - animals

So many cute options...

The search continues...

2008-09-05T14:31:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Meghan, and I'm indecisive. :)

This bedding decision is making my head spin. I know I need to just make a decision, buy the damn bedding and move on - but of course, that wouldn't be like me at all.

So. Here are my top options at the moment. I'm going to try to just stop looking at this point (I'm pretty sure I've seen it ALL anyway!!), and just pick one of these options.

The original Caden LaneOption - but slightly modified since one of my wonderful friends has agreed to help me by MAKING it. (Caden Lane sells fabric by the yard HERE)

These options from Restoration Hardware.

I like that I can pretty much mix and match the options. Plus, once it's time to take off the bumper - I can pick up a set of patterned crib sheets to spice things up again.

(I can't decide between the sage or the blue...)

Here is the set on an actual crib. (Damn pink example!)

I LOVE this sheet for when the bumper above goes away

Obviously the RH sets are a lot more simple, while the Caden Lane set would really be a focal point for the room.

What do you think? Sadly, It seems that most people didn't share my love of the original favorite...

Back from Oahu

2008-09-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to be back after a few days at the beach! Who wants to go to work when there are perfectly comfy beach chairs just waiting for someone to lay in them. ;)

I'll be back with a full report (And a 20 week update!), once I can catch up at work.

Boo!

2008-08-21T11:14:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure my baby won't even be able to open his eyes yet come Halloween, but that hasn't stopped me from drooling over the super cute baby Halloween costumes out there.

Baby Style has my favorite ones by far - but they're pricey. (Mr. Frog man is $46!) But really. How freaking cute is the shark? Or even the Baby T-Rex? Ack. Cuteness overload.

There are also some really funny infant costumes out there. Ridiculous. But still funny. Check out the Billion Dollar Baby or the Little Trees Car Freshener HA!

I can't wait until next Halloween!

18 weeks

2008-08-19T22:01:00.001-07:00

At 18 weeks exactly, I think I may have "popped". All of the sudden I feel like I'm all belly. And I've had three people comment on the pregnancy. I'm now FULLY in maternity clothes. (Thank god for spandex waists) And I'm sad to say, but I think I may have developed a little bit of a waddle. *sigh* Now, if I can hold off the cankles just a little bit longer, I'll be a happy momma.

Baby is the size of a bell pepper this week. Which, for some reason freaks me out. ;) That seems much much larger than the olive from only a few weeks ago!

Nothing really exciting to report this week. I *think* I may have felt the baby move today. I had an odd rippling in my lower abdomen that for once, wasn't gas. We shall see!

As a side note though, Koka and I decided on our infant car seat. We're going with the Maxi-Cosi Mico. I lurve it. And now that we've decided, I can't wait to get it!

Purdy, yes?

I've officially lost my mind

2008-08-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

That's it. I've gone off the deep end.

But I luuuurve this bedding. Huge crush. Totally unrealistic.

But considering the price tag on that bad boy, I'll probably have to settle for these bibs. $24 I can stomach.

17 weeks (With a few pictures)

2008-08-13T20:22:00.001-07:00

Wow, Bad Meghan. It's been a week since I last posted. I really have no excuse. And this post is really going to be a post and run. Sorry.

I reached the 17 week milestone yesterday, and I still feel great! Koka and I celebrated the occasion by getting a 3D ultrasound. According to Baby Center, baby is the size of a turnip this week, so I was really hoping that would mean he/she would be decidedly un-alien like. No suck luck. It was still pretty creepy!

But, we did find out some great news.... baby sexton is a

BOY

Isn't he cute?

I can't wait to think about names, to start planning a nursery, and to really connect with baby. I'm over the moon excited.

And the winner is...

2008-08-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

I scored my diaper bag on Bluefly.com last week. And in true Meghan style - it wasn't even on my initial lists.

I LURVE it.

Technically, it is a purse - but one of my mom friends has it and swears by it. It's hard to tell, but the top is actually three different sections. The middle, zippered section, is perfectly sized for my wallet, sunglasses, keys, etc. Then there are two side sections with magnetic flaps that will hold bottles and sippy cups down the road. The bottom zippered section is deeper than it appears and will be perfect for diapers, a change of clothes and wipes.

Serious, I think it's perfect. And I cant' wait to use it. (I may even name it.)

15 weeks

2008-07-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

Second Trimester

I'm really having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that I'm over a third of the way through this pregnancy. I mean, according to babycenter, I actually have a human looking mini baby in there! This whole experience just seems to be flying right past me. I feel so incredibly lucky, because I've really been enjoying being pregnant. (For the most part. I don't think anyone enjoys yaking up Indian food....) But I'm still just in awe of what is happening inside my body. It's still hard for me to believe that I'm growing a human.

More specifically, a human the size of an apple this week.

Weight Gain

The hardest thing for me so far has been my body. It's been really hard for me to accept the changes and the growing numbers on the scale with the dignity I'd hoped I would have. While I should never compare myself to other women, let alone other pregnant women, I've noticed that I'm bursting out of my pre-pregnancy clothes at an alarmingly quick rate. Scary stuff.

I've just got to suck it up. Hopefully baby is getting smarter with each pound I gain. (And screw the babycenter weight updates!)

As another counter measure - I picked up this DVD.

Hopefully it will kick my ass into gear!

Nursery Inspiration

2008-07-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

The fabulous creative talent at www.becoming-mom.net posted her nursery tour today. I simply love it. It's bright and colorful without being cartoon-ish or overly busy. It's probably not what we'll doo with our space - but it's what I wish I had the courage to do!

You can find more photos here.

Growing, and growing...

2008-07-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

I'm still not sure it looks like a baby bump - but it's certainly getting bigger!

Here is the 11 week shot vs the 14 week shot

Any guesses on gender this early on? Make sure to take the quiz to the right.

As a side note, I am officially in my 2nd Trimester! Woot.

Stroller FYI

2008-07-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

Amazon is having a sale on the Bugaboo, in case anyone is interested! (Through the end of the month)

Click here.

Pretty much the best jeans EVER.

2008-07-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

I picked up a pair of these during the brief window they were available from the Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale. Saying that I love them would be an understatement. Nordies is sold out through August, but you can pick up a pair here.

Just a few more

2008-07-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

I came across a few more lovelies in my search yesterday. I just wanted to drop them off for safe keeping...

Not Rational Gretel

Not Rational Hansel

Nest Mercer

And just because I still think it's pretty. Another shot of the Mia Bossi Alisa. *sigh*

The Diaper Bag Search Begins

2008-07-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

I had no idea that this would be so hard! Being the serious bag whore that I am, I've been on a constant search for diaper bags since pretty much the day I found out I was pregnant. But I haven't found anything that I love. I just can't resign myself to the look of most of the bags out there... and I have to admit I'm having a but of an internal struggle over spending so much money on a bag that will ultimately hold breast milk and poop.

Anyway, here are a few that I've had my eye on:

Mia Bossi Caviar Bag

Mia Bossi Alisa

Baby Kaed Jaipur

Debbie Rott Eva Rocker

This one is a little bit less expensive...

Storksak Emily Pewter

This one isn't a baby bag, but it seems very usable

Tory Burch Nylon Tote
Also not baby bags, but I was also directed to check out these bags by a new company called Physhion. They're technically Gym bags and have a similar fabric exterior to the Petunia Pickle bottom glazed bags. They seem large enough and well organized inside - but I'm still not sure.

So, to all you more experienced moms... What diaper bag are you toting?

NT Scan photos

2008-07-10T11:55:00.000-07:00

We had the NT scan yesterday, and Baby Meg and Koka passed with flying colors. Ok, actually he/she was just perfectly within the normal range. So now I just need to wait of the blood work for our final probability. But overall, I think it went well. Koka couldn't make it to the scan so I decided to bring my mom along. I think she loved seeing her first little grandbaby moving around on the screen.

Doesn't it look like he/she's sucking its thumb?

I love the crossed legs in this one. So graceful looking!

This one makes me think Baby might be a girl. (I've been thinking boy so far this entire pregnancy) Doesn't it look like she's getting her hands ready for her manicure. :)

Busting out!

2008-07-07T15:43:00.000-07:00

Beer gut, or baby belly? You decide...

Here is 7 weeks, just after the bloat started to subside

And here is the 11 week shot

All I can say - At least I've gotten a better tan in the last 4 weeks. :)

11 weeks 6 days

2008-07-07T11:37:00.000-07:00

Turns out I'm not so good at this blog thing. Hopefully I'll get better as this pregnancy progresses.

Last week we had another ultrasound to see our fetus. There aren't even really any words to describe how cool it is to see an actually baby shape waving back at you. We could see its little heart beating away and even blood flow through the umbilical cord. Very Sci-Fi.

Wednesday I have my NT scan, so I'll get to see the baby again! Koka will be in Houston, so I'm bringing my mom. She's pretty excited to get her first glimpse at the grandbaby.

New Poll

2008-07-01T11:24:00.001-07:00

I added a new poll to the right. Let me know what you think!

Meat anyone?

2008-06-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

The weirdest thing for me during this pregnancy are my food aversions/fascinations/obsessions. I can no longer drink hot beverages - I just can't stomach them! It's bizarre. So Iced Decaf Lattes for me. I also had a pretty strong Meat obsession during the first few weeks that is thankfully starting to pass. I'm just not a natural meat eater. Even thought I couldn't get it in my mouth fast enough, I still thought it was gross. LOL. It was actually pretty funny.

My newest thing are these semi-obsessions I've been having. I wouldn't call them cravings because they're not all consuming, but I basically decide that something sounds good and it's the ONLY thing that sounds good - until it's infront of me. For example, last week I really wanted a chicken salad sandwich. I managed to go about 4 days before I caved and made some one night for lunch the next day. I woke up pretty excited to eat my sandwich and then didn't eat more than two bites before I didn't even want to look at it anymore. Odd! And of course my craving dejour is a turkey burger, french fries and a chocolate milkshake. Healthy much? (Hmm, and I guess my meat cravings are still there... both meals I mentioned are meat-centric. Funny!)

As a side note, Koka isn't sure that he wants to find out the sex of the baby. 6 months ago I would have told that wasn't going to happen! But, I'm surprising low key about it. I'd prefer to find out - it would make the nursery planning a million times easier - but I figure if he has strong feelings one way or the other, I should indulge him. I tend to think that if we know more about the baby growing in there, we can bond with it better and be more prepared for the arrival. But, I guess we'll see when we get closer.

Speaking of the nursery, I did pick up these today on Etsy. They probably won't go with the serene nursery decor I imagine for the baby - but they were way too cute to pass up!

I figure, I can find SOME place for them. (Maybe Koka's office? LOL)

My night last night

2008-06-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

6:00pm - Home from work
7:00pm - Refused to cook and ordered pizza
8:30pm - Fell asleep on the couch
9:00pm - Woke up long enough to eat Ben and Jerry's Cherry Garcia Frozen Yogurt
10:00pm - Crashed in bed
12:00am - Had a sleep talking conversation with Koka to "Get up and clean the chocolate off his back". Apparently I was extremely aggitated because he hadn't painted the airplane wings and was getting chocolate on the new bed.

Ok, so maybe I have more pregnancy symptoms than I thought. ;)

No real updates

2008-06-17T13:59:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of updates recently, there haven't been any major developments in the land of baby Meg and Koka. Things have been going well!

I'm 9 weeks today, so according to The Nest Baby, our FETUS (yay, no longer an embryo) is now about the size of a green olive.

My morning sickness has pretty much died down, and the only things I absolutely can't consume are hot beverages. (Those still make me gag.)

So far, I love being pregnant!

Meet our blob!

2008-06-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

I think it looks just like Koka. :)

Interesting...

2008-05-28T11:45:00.001-07:00

Want to see what my insides are doing?

Clicky clicky

Freaky stuff!

First Baby Purchase

2008-05-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I KNOW I'm early in this pregnancy. And I KNOW that we shouldn't be buying much of anything....especially not big ticket items. But when have I ever followed the rules when it comes to shopping?

I may have picked up a little something.

Ok, I bought our Stroller . Whoops!

I've wanted this stroller almost as long as I've wanted a child. So, when I found it $200 off - I snatched it up! I've never seen it on sale before, so I'm a happy girl!

It arrived at our house today - so now i just need to figure out how to put it together!

Yay! Yay! Yay!

2008-05-20T20:31:00.000-07:00

My hCG levels went from 70 at 13dpo (days past ovulation) to 1499 at 19 dpo! I really have an embryo in there!

I can't even believe that I am posting this...

2008-05-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

Yes, I really am pregnant!

Ack!

I have so many thoughts about it flying through my brain, but I'm having a hard time getting it into words. I'm going to be a mother. We're going to have a child. Koka and I are going to be parents. It's wonderful, it's scary, it's surreal. But mostly, it's exciting.

I had no idea that it would happen so quickly for us. And honestly, I didn't think it had happened. I was convinced our timing was wrong. I just figured we'd be in for another month or more. I'm beyond thrilled that this happened so quickly. Wow. It's really all I can say.

About a week ago I started to suspect something. I don't think I could pin point what it was, but I just kind of knew. I started craving McDonald's cheeseburgers. (An odd thing for a girl who hasn't eaten beef in years!) I had a flutter in my stomach. I just had a feeling. So of course I started peeing on cheap internet pregnancy tests pretty much halfway through my 2 week wait. Needless to say I got negative after negative after negative. (I think I went through 6 total...)

On Monday night, I took yet another cheap test, waited the 5 minutes for it to season and then threw it away. Negative. Or, wait, was it? I kid you not when I tell you that I went digging through the trash to see if my mind was playing tricks on me. I just couldn't tell. I took pictures of it to see if it would show up on film. (I'll spare you the additional pee stick pictures.) And I just honestly couldn't tell. It seemed like a faulty test, or a fluke.

But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't just a LITTLE excited. I didn't want to tell Koka and be wrong, so I kept it to myself. I went to bed anxious to wait up and test again.

Tuesday morning another internet cheapie - and another questionable result. I just couldn't believe a line that I had to squint and tilt to see. I had to bring out the big guns. The digital test. Would you believe that flashing on the screen was the symbol stating 'Invalid Test". Yup. I still didn't have an answer!! I left for work, stopped at the drug store to pick up some FRER tests and another digital test.

4 hours later, I got this:

Oh my god.

I ran to the book store to pick up She's Having a Baby - and I'm Having a Breakdown and a super cute daddy card to break the news. And then it was all I could do to not run screaming from my office and head home. I wanted to post here, I wanted to email everyone on the planet. But I had to tell Koka. I had to wait just a little bit longer...

On my way home from work I picked up the McDonald's cheeseburgers that he'd been teasing me about, and armed with fast food and a small gift, I ambushed my husband to tell him the news. I'm sure he had to read the card 3 or 4 times before he really understood what was going on! He just looked up at me with tears in his eyes and threw his arms around me. It was wonderful. I don't think anything in my life can compare with giving him that news.

We're going to be parents!

And for prosperity, here's me, in my lovely pajamas with dirty hair, way too excited to be holding a stick I peed on.