39 Weeks: Scheduled

The calls, emails, facebook posts, and texts are rolling in. I will go ahead and answer you before you want/need to do the same: No, I have not had the baby, nor am I in labor. And yes, I am ready.

Our induction is scheduled. No matter what, we will have this baby no later than December 13th. We go in at 6am. I think part of the reason I am still so anxious and hopeful that it will happen before that is because I am really not a fan of the idea of being induced. With Deviney, I made certain the doctor knew I had no intentions of even doing it. Fortunately, she came 2 days early. So I suppose what I am feeling (with the anxiety, impatience, heartburn, excitement) is guilt. It seems a bit selfish that I plan to be induced simply because it's December and that's a really inconvenient time to have a birthday. Plus, I have this idea about how it's supposed to go - unexpectedly, unplanned, and as more of a "surprise". Being induced takes some of the fun out of it for me. In my mind, we are giggling and nervous; running around putting things in the car, getting Deviney where she needs to go, forgetting to turn off a light in the kitchen, speeding to the hospital, running past people to get to the 3rd floor. I just don't picture us setting an alarm, driving slowly and quietly to the hospital, checking in calmly, waiting patiently for the medication that is going to force my child to be born. I like surprises - clearly, or I wouldn't be waiting to find out if it's a boy or a girl and everyone would know the names we have decided on.

I went to the doctor last week and she said I was 75% effaced, almost 2 cm dilated, but the baby was at -2 position. She assured me that 2nd babies usually "drop" quickly and it wasn't something to be surprised about this time around. I will go back on Thursday to find out if any more progress has been made. I have to believe something has happened. I certainly haven't been "laying low" the last few weeks and the baby at least feels like he/she has dropped a little bit.

With all that said, I would love to think this is the last blog entry I write before I am able to say, "It's a ....!" I ask - nay, I beg - you to please send positive thoughts our way that baby 2 makes his/her appearance soon. I am dying to hold this little miracle!

Ready at 38 Weeks

Yep, still pregnant.

Hospital bags are packed, car seat is in, laundry is done and put away, plans are made. It's time, baby. We're ready.

I said all along I wanted to be done with Christmas preparations by Thanksgiving. I almost made it. Christmas presents are purchased and wrapped with a few still on their way. Our tree is up, the lights are out, the Christmas music plays, and the pine tree candles burn. I know it's possible to get things done after the baby comes but I am also trying to avoid any sort of panic or stress if at all possible. Honestly, I think it has just made me more excited for Christmas! We even have a sweet, cute, neutral red Christmas outfit for the baby.

I don't have an appointment again until Friday this week. I won't see my doctor, but will see another in the practive. She's actually the one who delivered Deviney, so I feel confident. I am hoping... UPON HOPE... there's news of some progress. With a long walk through the zoo Saturday, lots of nesting (cleaning, climbing, moving, organizing, etc.), and even eating some spicy food, I should think something this week would have worked. If not, we at least know 2 weeks remain until this baby comes.

Oh, wow - We will have a baby in no more than 2 weeks!

37 Weeks = Full Term!

Things to NOT say to a pregnant woman:
- "Wow! What's your due date - like, today?"
- "You look READY"
- "You must be due any minute!"
- "Don't be having that baby in here"

... unless you know she is, in fact, due today.

These are the things people - even complete strangers - have said to me for the last few weeks. I'd prefer "you look so cute!" and "you are still so tiny!". I don't care that's it's not true - I am 37 weeks pregnant and could use the lies.

I have said (eh-hem... complained) that this pregnancy is a little more uncomfortable than the first and that does not appear to be changing. For the first time in my life, actually, I am experiencing heartburn. It's not constant and it's not daily but it has happened a few times, mostly at night. I don't know what the cure is for that but I am pretty sure I'm going to say ice cream.

The greatest news this week is that I am now, officially, FULL TERM. That means the baby can come any day now and be perfectly fine outside of the womb. I say Bring It On, baby! I am a little unnerved, though, that the last few times I have been to the doctor they have asked if I am experiencing contractions yet. Um, no. Unless I don't remember what they feel like or I am simply not paying attention. It could explain why I don't seem to be progressing much with less than 3 weeks to go. At least when I went to the doctor today I was dilated to 1 cm. But that's about it. It's about time I start jumping on the trampoline while eating spicy food.

We have planned a dance party for December 10th at our house. Since that is my official due date, it's a full moon, and it was (basically) the same way labor started for Deviney, I figured it was worth a shot. If that doesn't work, then I am scheduled for induction on December 13th. I'm keeping fingers crossed that this baby wants to come earlier than that. Each day this baby waits, he/she is only increasing the chances his/her birthday presents come in Christmas wrapping paper. Now, who wants that?

Week 36: No Progress

I went to the doctor last week, which started my weekly appointments. That means the beginning of the end is near! I have 4 appointments to go, including the one I have scheduled for tomorrow morning.

When I saw the doctor, I was disappointed to find out there has been no progress thus far. No effacement, no dilation. I realize it is nothing to be concerned about since I do, technically, have about a month to go but I would like to at least feel like something is happening. When I go tomorrow I am hoping for a better update. I have busied myself this week by cleaning carpets, moving furniture, and trying to get things ready for the baby. If old wives are right, then that should help move things along.

The baby's heartbeat was 140 last week and my BP was fine. My weight gain was fine (for the 2 weeks it had been) but my overall weight gain is not something I can brag about. Gaining 26 with my first set a standard that I obviously could not maintain this time. I would love to know where all the pounds are hiding because truthfully I don't think I look any different than I did when I was pregnant with Deviney 2 years ago. Plus, I have had more people tell me in the last few weeks that I am "sooo cute!". I have to believe people don't say that to big, fat pregnant women, right?

Baby 2 seems to be doing just fine, based on the extreme movements I feel all day long. For as uncomfortable as they can sometimes be, I am already sad to think they will be gone in a few short weeks.

35 Weeks and Cankles

It really is official - I don't have any ankles. They are only slightly visible in the mornings but within an hour, they disappear. It's getting increasingly difficult to find shoes to wear since I can't get away with flip flops in November and I refuse to buy the next size up - isn't a size 10 enough?

Babycenter.com will tell you this baby weighs around 5 1/2 lbs and measures over 18 inches long. I believe my baby weighs more and is longer. I am amazed sometimes that I can feel movement in three different places at one time - in my rib, by my hip, and near my pelvis all at the same time. It's at the point now that it can be pretty painful at times. If a person across a room from me looked hard enough they would probably be able to see the baby shift sometimes from side to side. While it does sometimes seem a little "alien-like", I will concede it is still one of the most amazing and thrilling things I have ever experienced.

We are slowing getting more and more prepared for this baby to come. The car seat is washed and in the car and the hospital bag is about 1/2 packed. I have also been doubling up on some recipes and freezing some meals in preparation for the first few weeks at home. I could stand to make a few more (since about 2/3 of what I have made is soup). It probably doesn't help that about every 3 days, I ask for carry-out or dinner at a restaurant. Leftovers don't freeze well and won't feed my whole family.

I have to say, my need to "nest" is not nearly as strong as it was the first time. Either that or I am just too tired to want to. There is a lot I would like to get done at the house before the baby arrives (ie: Spring cleaning from last spring?) but I can't seem to find the motivation to do it. Between having a 2 year old, being pregnant, and the trying to prepare in advance for the upcoming holidays, I consider it an accomplishment most days that the dishes get done and laundry gets folded.

6 To Go: 34 Weeks

For some reason, saying there are only 6 weeks to go seems frightening. Now when people ask, "When are you due?" and I say December 10 the response is "Oh, wow! That's soon!" Hey, thanks. Didn't occur to me.

I went to the doctor last Thursday and will go again next Thursday, starting my weekly appointments. That's when it gets really real - checking for progress, taking measurements, etc. It's one thing to listen to a heartbeat and get your belly measured - It's a whole different story when the doctor starts to take measurements to determine how soon you might go into labor. It wont be long before we have to pack a bag, get the pack n play set up, and put the car seat base in. Fortunately, we have our plan set for who will watch Deviney when we go to the hospital. That's a whole added concern we didn't have the first time!

I read that this week fatigue may begin to set back in. There's no question about that! Most days now, I try to nap when Deviney does. Sometimes it's just 1/2 hour... sometimes it's 2. It certainly makes it hard to get things done around the house. That whole "nesting" thing isn't quite going to work out with baby #2. I have a sneaking suspicion he/she will survive :)

Week 33

I love being pregnant, I love being pregnant, I love being pregnant...

I am not miserable and I know for certain there are far more people that have harder pregnancies than me. But it's all relative, right? I am not wishing this baby out early and I don't feel all the time like I am just "done" with being pregnant, but there are certain days and times that I feel entitled to complain. I never understood women that said they were just "done"... until now. My latest complaints are that:

1. My back always aches (and when it's your 2nd, you get less sympathy and, consequently, less back rubs);

2. Maternity sizes are AWFUL. "S" should stand for "small" (which is a bit ironic, when you're talking about pregnancy clothing) and not "short"! I am not particularly tall at 5'6, so why do all the maternity shirts come only to my belly button?

3. I'm swollen. If I am not wearing flip-flops, I can tell my feet are fatter. And my legs are puffier. And my face looks bloated. And my arms are big... need I go on?

In fairness, pregnancy has been easy for me, albeit a bit more uncomfortable this time, but still nothing to really feel sorry for myself about. Even my doctor says I am just "made to be pregnant". Part of my complaints are grounded in the fact that I am really just simply excited for this baby to come. I was excited when I was pregnant with Deviney but in a different way, and with added anxiety and anticipation. With this baby, the fears are fewer and the anxiety is... well, it's not gone, it's just targeted at different things. What makes a second pregnancy different is that this time, I know what it's like to hold my child in my arms for the first time, to sit for a 1/2 hour just looking at his/her beautiful face, to feel the overwhelming bursting love you can only understand when you become a parent, to be overcome with amazing pride. Those are feelings you never forget and, for some of us, we are lucky to experience it even one time in our lives. I'm thrilled I get to do it again.

32 Weeks: Running out of Room

There are 8 weeks until this baby's due date and I really, truly, sincerely have no idea how I will get any bigger. I am nearly certain there is no room left inside for this baby! He/She must feel the same because I am pretty sure this baby could kick his/her way out with only slightly more effort. Yikes.

Based on a very official poll (Facebook), most people believe we will be having a boy. There were approximately 9 votes for girl and 18 for boy. I have no idea what opinions were based on, but it is certainly making things fun for us! When I was pregnant the first time, Drew and I both felt like we were having a girl. This time, we are split. Sometimes I think it's simply because we enjoy the competition.

I visited the doctor late last week. I measure 32cm (right on target), gained 2 lbs in 2 weeks (right on target) and my blood pressure was... well, right on target. The baby's heart rate - for those of you still guessing gender - was in the 130s. If you believe lower means boy, then this week it is a boy. If you believe higher is girl, then it was a girl just 2 weeks ago in the 150s.

31 Weeks

We are now in single digits for the weekly countdown: 9 to go. That also means we have about 2 months left. Since the last 2 months have flown by, I have a feeling this is going to come sooner than we think.

Deviney celebrated her 2nd birthday this week and one of the gifts she got was a baby doll, complete with a bottle, bib, sippy cup, rattle, bath essentials, etc. She has been so sweet with her baby doll - rocks her, lays her down when she is "tired", gives her a bottle, feeds her "spaghetti", gives her kisses... I am hopeful this is indicative of things to come. Although, I could live without the jumping off the ottoman with the baby in arms and throwing her on the couch.

We've also been reading Deviney a book about being a big sister. It's hard to say if she understands any of it, but it certainly can't hurt.

So it seems this week more than any other week, I have been the recipient of a lot of comments about how large my belly is getting. It doesn't really bother me, mostly because I know it's true and partly because it's been followed-up with, "but it looks like that is the only place that is getting bigger". Truth be told, my arms, face, thighs, and ankles are larger than they used to be but if other people don't see it (or just want to lie to me about it), that's fine! It does concern me a bit, though, that I still have 2 months to go and the baby is going to do nothing but get bigger. The weight comes off, the weight comes off, the weight comes off (I say to myself, begging it to be true the second time around).

Counting Down: 30 Weeks

There are only 10 weeks to go - well, to be technical, I guess it's more like 9 weeks and 5 days... not that I am counting (but I am). That means about 68 days until our due date. How is that possible?


While we get closer and closer to actually meeting this little bundle, we are starting to do more and more to prepare. This weekend we had maternity photos done by my incredibly talented sister. While I have only seen a few "preview" pictures, I am certain I am going to be happy with them. I didn't do any photos this time with a naked belly (which I may or may not later regret), only because I am a little more self-conscious about my body this time than I was the first. I suppose if I am ever one day curious, I have the weekly photos to reference.


We also have Deviney officially in her new big girl room. Our sweet little girl has never looked back! She knows the baby crib is now "for the baby in mommy's belly" and she goes straight to her new room for naps, bedtime, and sometimes to play. She has slept very well in there (maybe better than the crib!) and gets excited to tell people all about it. We're still working on potty training (with the occasional near-accident) but feel pretty confident she will be completely done before the baby comes.

We also bought the baby's "going home outfits" tonight. Like last time, we have something for a boy and something for a girl. Drew picked out the girl outfit (since he is certain it's a girl) and I picked the boy. I also may have picked out a "little sister" and "little brother" outfit. Seriously, how could I resist?

I went to the doctor last week with no real news to report. My BP was fine, belly measured fine, and the baby seemed to be moving around just fine. The heartbeat measured this time in the 150s. I will go back Friday of next week again. Weekly appointments start mid-November. That's when time starts moving faster - if that is even possible?

Hiccups at 29 Weeks

I still maintain that Deviney moved more - and kicked harder - than this baby. She also seemed to jab and spin much higher (into my ribs, side, etc) while this baby hangs out around my belly button and lower abdomen. He/She still moves around a lot and occasionally does so to the point it hurts but it's quite how I remember it being with #1.

I read a while ago that I would be able to feel hiccups but I didn't really notice anything until this past week. The baby was getting them consistently at night but I did notice them this morning. It makes me giggle every time.

I bought a butternut squash at the grocery store this week, just in time to read that the baby is about the same size around 29 weeks. Of course I had to hold it up to my belly to see. Seemed about right!

I looked at my blog from being pregnant with Deviney and at 28 weeks I had registered for baby items at Target and Babies R Us. While I won't have showers and don't need many things for the baby, I am beginning a running list of things in my head that I will still need to get before December. I have plenty of clothes (but still can't resist looking; plus we will need a "going home outfit"!), diapers are a given (though we almost have Deviney out of them so we should have only one to buy for!), and I need to find a neutral baby book (that I vow to complete). Between the things we need to buy and the things we still need to do, it's probably about time I write the lists down and start working on crossing things off. December is coming fast!

28 Weeks: 12 to Go!

Maybe it's been an "off" week or maybe I am still recovering from a trip to Maine last weekend? All I know is that I have more complaints this week than I remember from my entire first pregnancy. I still maintain that I am very lucky to feel (and have felt) as good as I do and I promise that I still love being pregnant. However, I could live without the following things:

- Swollen ankles (appeared this week)
- Swollen fingers (mostly when it's warm; also appeared this week)
- Acne
- Constant lower back pain
- Heavy pressure in the pelvic area (sorry if that's TMI, but I am pregnant and I think that entitles women to talk about the most disgusting things imaginable)
- Fatigue
- Protruding belly button (it's almost completely there now... sigh)
- Weight gain (okay, that's not a reasonable complaint but I still don't love that part)



I went to the doctor on the 15th. That morning was my glucose test, which came out fine except that my blood work showed low iron. I now need to take a supplement along with the Fish Oil and Prenatal Vitamin I take. What's another pill, right? My weight gain is still climbing but I am hoping it begins to plateau soon. My doctor assured me that I still looked fine and I shouldn't worry much, except that I really shouldn't gain more than 10 or 11 pounds before my due date. My belly measured at around 27 1/2, which was exactly where it should be and the baby's heart rate was 146. Now that I am in my 3rd trimester, I will be back to the doctor every 2 weeks.

While I avoid the pregnant "waddle" and try to ignore the fact that my center of balance is off, no one else can deny that this baby (and I) are growing all the time. Oddly enough, I have people ask both "are you due soon?" and "you must not be that far along yet?". Is black slimming even when you have a giant belly?

Week 27: 3rd Trimester!

Looks like we are in the homestretch! Wow, is this going fast! What an unusual feeling to experience the emotions of complete anticipation and total panic at the same time. When I look at ultrasound pictures, I want to reach in and grab my precious baby to hold it, kiss it, and rock it to sleep. When I look at a calendar, however, I want to find a rewind button to buy myself a few more weeks to prepare.

So is hindsight really 20/20 or was my first pregnancy really a breeze like I think I remember it? Believe me, I don't have much to complain about - at all - but I do feel like I am experiencing a little more discomfort this time than I did the first. I get winded running up the stairs sometimes. Seriously? A flight of stairs? Also, it seems that every day my back aches, regardless of what I am doing/have done. This last week, I started feeling pain in my ribs when I sat for more than 1/2 hour upright. This baby is sitting very low - there should be no reason for that, right?

Don't get me wrong, I still think I have storybook pregnancies. Compared to most, I don't feel like I ever really skip a beat. From first trimester to the end. It's just that every once in a while, I am reminded that I am in fact pregnant. For instance, I think I have finally reached the point that the belly runs into things before I do. I know that means it won't be long before I am knocking things over with a protruding belly button.

Double Digits: 26 Weeks!

We have hit double digits until our due date! Under 100 days until we become a 4-person family.

This week we managed to get Deviney's "big girl bedroom" painted. It's technically called Bathe Blue but Drew claims it is Baby Boy Blue. It looks cute - just lacks accessories and details - but I am certain it will still be perfect for a little girl. That means the nursery will soon be ready (again) for the arrival of baby #2! Phew - I am definitely feeling a little more prepared.

We had an ultrasound this week to check on a few things. Everything looked perfect, including the precious little baby we were able to watch move around and snuggle inside. He/She kept a hand or foot in front of his/her face almost the entire time which made it a little difficult to see face but the ultrasound tech managed to get a few really good pictures. Drew and I both agree that this baby looks like Deviney but we can't see to agree on what gender we think it might be (Drew is certain it's a girl where I lean more towards boy). The heart rate was 136.

No matter what, the baby is growing exactly as he/she should be. Though babycenter.com says the baby at 26 weeks weighs around 1 2/3 lbs, the ultrasound indicated ours weighs a little over 2. Perhaps both baby and I should slow down on weight gain?

Week 25: Making Room(s)

As I type, my dear husband is on his way to buy me a McFlurry from McDonalds. I don't know if I can say I crave them, necessarily, but I certainly do WANT them. Even if it's 9:30pm. Pregnancy = hall pass.

My December due date seems to be quickly approaching. I am not totally proud to admit that I am getting increasingly nervous. There is a great deal to be done between now and December 10. Aside from painting and decorating Deviney's new room, re-preparing the nursery, hosting a 2nd Birthday party, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and buying and decorating for Christmas, I have to mentally prepare myself for how life is about to change. Don't get me wrong, I am utterly and completely excited about it... but nervous, nonetheless. People have more than one child all the time, though - I know I can do this (right??).

We have managed to buy Deviney's new bedspread and sheets for her big girl bed. A step in the right direction. She is seems pretty thrilled about the idea of sleeping in there and even tonight argued about which bed she was going to sleep in. Fingers crossed the momentum sustains. We plan to move her sometime in October.

In the meantime, I am certainly managing just fine making more room physically for this baby. It might have something to do with my obsession with M&Ms and ice cream. I don't get weighed again until Sept 15th and I don't intend to step on a scale again until that time. For now, I think I will just enjoy my McFlurry... again.

24 Weeks and 30 Years

The day the baby turned 24 weeks was just one day before I turned 30. Honestly, I like to pretend that turning 30 bothers me but it really doesn't... or hasn't yet. I really think this is going to be a great year - how can it not with my second child on his/her way?!

I went to the doctor last week and met with the Nurse Practitioner. The baby's heart rate was in the 150s and everything with me checked out fine, though she did mention my weight seemed a bit high. She was careful to tell me that she thought I still looked "great" and said I should just remain active and drink lots of water. My belly was measured for the first time and it measured perfectly. So my weight isn't going exclusively to my belly... though I am not sure where the rest of it is? At 24 weeks, the baby is a bit over a pound and almost a foot long. I suppose that is not a good enough excuse.

I have continued to walk as often as possible and have been more aware of my water consumption. Being sick for two days over the week may also contribute to less weight gain this time around. I gained only 26 pounds with Deviney and went 39 weeks. Fingers crossed I don't surpass that with baby #2!

23 Weeks

I have read that by now, the baby can feel dancing and swaying. I suppose that means he/she can feel when we are on the boat. I hope that means this baby is well-prepared for boat trips next spring! It certainly worked for his/her big sister, who has had sea legs since she could stand.

I have been very diligent about walking. Of the last 10 days, I have only missed 2. I am committed to continuing, especially after stepping on the scale this morning. It seems small (walking for at least 3/4 hour) but I hadn't been good about working out before I got pregnant and it's recommended that you don't start anything new when you are. I guess that marathon will have to wait.

I know better now this baby's sleep/wake schedule and it's fun to anticipate kicks and spins. I still think I miss a lot of it (chasing around a toddler all day) but usually I can expect it at around 9:30a, 2:30pm, 6:30pm, and 10:30pm. And maybe it's too early to know, but it does seem like this baby sits lower than Deviney did. I remember feeling Deviney more in my ribs and upper abdomen. This baby kicks me much lower. I do realize that when he/she gets bigger, the kicking, jabbing, and poking will be everywhere, mostly because there is nowhere else to go.

I used to think I would be done having kids by the time I was 30 and I almost made it. Since I turn 30 on Sunday, I am only going to be off by a few months. That is, of course, if we really truly are done after this one :)

Asking Old Wives: 22 Weeks

Since everyone is dying to know the gender of this baby (except me), I thought it would be fun this week to make some guesses based on old wives' tales.

1. Carrying baby low (okay, lower than last time): BOY
2. Baby's heart rate above 140: GIRL
3. No morning sickness: BOY
4. Craving sweets: GIRL
5. Belly looks more like a basketball than a watermelon: BOY
6. Weight gain primarily in front (belly): BOY
7. Increased acne: GIRL
8. Feet not any colder during pregnancy: GIRL
9. Leg hair growing at the same pace as before: GIRL
10. Bright urine (Sorry, TMI): BOY
11. Dad not gaining weight with me: BOY
12. Less attractive during pregnancy: GIRL

Hmmm, 6 GIRL and 6 BOY. That sorta leaves you with no real answer.

How about we try something else? Chinese gender predictor tests say GIRL and BOY. I took 4 different Internet tests and had equal responses for each. You'd think I could count on the Internet for reliability!

What we do know is that the baby should be right around 1lb this week and should be starting to look like a miniature newborn. His/Her eyelids and eyes have formed but there is no pigment yet in the irises. I will go out on a limb and say they'll be brown. Just a hunch.

There's not much more to report. I am feeling fine, with the exception of some lower back pain. I have not been very dedicated to walking as I was with baby 1, but use the excuse that I get a great deal of exercise chasing around Deviney every day. Also, it's been really hot. I actually decided yesterday it was time to get back into a routine so the alarm is now set to get up before anyone else and take an early morning stroll with the dog every day. Unless it's raining... or I am really tired:)

Week 21 and Over the Hump

I suppose it's inappropriate to use the word "hump" in a title for anything in a pregnancy blog?

So, we are at 21 weeks and that means we are more than half-way there! By now, this little peanut should be around 10 1/2 inches long and, I am guessing, somewhere around 12 oz (think: pop can... or beer, whichever your preference). All I know is he/she is big enough to kick hard enough to allow Drew to feel it. Last week, he felt it for the first time! If I would pay closer attention, I could probably get him to feel it more often.

I also understand that at 21 weeks, the baby is swallowing amniotic fluid and can "taste" some of what I am eating. If that is the case, this kid is enjoying cereal, ice cream, french fries, hot sauce, and any carb I can get my hands on lately.

While this baby is keeping me very comfortable and happy, his/her big sister is starting to cause us some trouble. As if I wasn't already nervous about having a newborn and a toddler at the same time, I now have a toddler that throws tantrums when she does not get her way and screams when she is laid down for bed or a nap. We're hoping it's just a phase and that it ends sometime on or before December 10th. I can't imagine trying to deal with both!

Week 20 - Half Way to Baby!

This week marks the half-way point and I couldn't be more excited! My, how the time has passed. It really does seem like yesterday that we found out we were going to have another baby.

I intentionally delayed my post this week in anticipation of the ultrasound I had today. What I wouldn't give to have one of those machines at home to play with every day! Everything went very well and the tech as well as the doctor said that so far the baby looks perfect! Heart chambers, liver, kidneys, stomach, fingers, toes all seem to be in their proper positions and functioning as expected. We of course thought the baby looked beautiful and I felt certain there was some resemblance to Deviney. His/Her heartbeat measured at 135 and it appears he/she weighs around 11 oz - right in line with where it should be. My due date remains 12/10/11 (thank Goodness!). The tech was careful not to show us any indication of gender, although she admitted she knew. Unlike with Deviney, now there is at least one person in this world that knows what we are having!

I also went to the doctor last week for my 4-week check-up. My blood pressure was fine and the doctor said nothing this time about my weight (although perhaps she should have). At this appointment, the baby's heartbeat was between 145-146. Just like Deviney, this baby is going to keep us all guessing gender until December!

Alas, we now have 6 pictures and 6 videos to admire. I am not afraid to admit I have looked them all over more than 5 times since 3pm today.

19 Weeks, Albeit late (again)

Once again, I have been delayed in posting for this week. I'd love to say I had a good excuse but honestly, I don't. We traveled over the weekend and for some reason I must need an entire week to recover.

I had an ultrasound last week. It was a quick one - the "real" ultrasound will be next week. Nonetheless, I got to see the baby and get a few pictures! Undeniably one of the most beautiful babies anyone has seen. At quick glance, I saw all arms and legs, a sweet little heartbeat, and very active karate-like moves. When I told the tech I hadn't yet been feeling movement, she laughed and said, "You certainly will soon! This baby is kicking and moving like crazy!".

...And she was right because it was only a day or two later that I started feeling him/her. It doesn't happen very often and I have to be paying very close attention, but there is no mistaking it this time around. The difference with baby number 2, I think, is that I have a lot less "quiet time" and moments I am sitting quietly still. I am not working at a desk all day or making a 30 minute commute back and forth to work 2 times each day. I sometimes have to force myself to sit and pay attention. I have to tell you - when it does happen, it's just as exciting as it was the first time around. It still makes me giggle every time.

Deviney continues to tell people there is a baby in my belly, but every once in a while tries to tell me she has one, too. I suppose it has to be confusing to her, especially because she is happy to tell you, too, that what daddy has in his belly is beer. Unfortunately for her, when this baby comes she will be the big sister of a needy, squirmy, loud, messy little girl/boy in December... as opposed to that bottle of beer she is imagining in her daddy's belly.

18 Weeks!

I made the mistake of getting on the scale a few days ago. I recommend all pregnant women throw away their scale. At least until about 6 months AFTER your baby is born. Yikes.

I get opposing comments - either, "I couldn't tell when you were pregnant at all!" and, "So, when are you due?" I have to be honest, I like it better when people ask my due date. That is, of course, because I am actually pregnant (I've heard horror stories about that question being asked at the wrong time). I really would prefer that people realize there is a 7 oz, 5 1/2 inch baby in that belly.

A common question people ask when you are pregnant is what you are craving. I think it changes daily - scratch that, hourly - for me. Recently it has been Pringles potato chips. I can't tell you the last time I bought them (until last Thursday). So there's those and, well, anything sweet. It doesn't matter the time of day. And let me tell you, an apple will not replace a craving for a jelly-filled donut from Tim Horton's.

17 Weeks. Well, Technically....

... So I am a little late posting this week. Normally, I try to post on day 2 of the week (Sunday) but between the Holiday weekend, a broken air conditioner, and a busy toddler's social calendar, I have become delayed. So to be technical, this is week 17 and 1/2.

This week, someone asked me my due date. This means I am on the verge of just being pregnant instead of "maybe just fat?". Anyone who has ever been pregnant before knows what a fantastic milestone this is!

I also thought I was going to get away with having no symptoms, pains, or real ailments with this pregnancy but I have been mistaken. Though it's not unbearable, lower back pain has begun to settle in, likely influenced by picking up a 23 lb child throughout the day. I am certainly on my feet and more active with this pregnancy (not always by choice!) than I was with the first. Difficulty sleeping has also recently started, which could be due to pregnancy or due to lack of air conditioning in 90 degree temperatures... or a combination thereof. Either way, I have been waking throughout the night and wanting to doze all throughout the day. (Luckily the air conditioner was fixed today so I cross my fingers for a better night tonight)

I have not yet started to feel the baby kick, though I expect that to happen soon. When I was pregnant with Deviney it was not until week 19 that the "flutters" started for me. And, as with Deviney, I am being terribly impatient and wishing it every day. Feeling a baby kick and move - no matter what your pregnancy has been like - has to be one of the most amazing, rewarding, and exciting things to experience. It's really indescribable and surreal. In a lot of ways, it makes me sad to think this will be the last time I will get to experience it.

Heartbeat and 16 Weeks

I went to the doctor this week - finally! It always seems to take forever between appointments in the beginning. By the end, though, you feel like you might as well get a sleeping bag and pillow because you live at the OB/GYN's. It is difficult in the beginning when you aren't feeling little feet kick or little elbows jab, though. The only reassurance is hearing a heartbeat through a little instrument in a sterile, white room at a doctor's office. When it's over, you count down the days until it happens again.


The baby's heartbeat was between 148 and 150. With Deviney, it was 142 at week 16. Since we aren't finding out the gender of the baby, you'll have to start guessing. Old wives will tell you a hear rate like that means girl. Old wives are sometimes wrong, though.


This week the doctor did say my weight gain needed to slow down a bit (9 lbs in 15 weeks). Whoops! Truthfully, it's not much different that the pattern with my first pregnancy. I came out strong gaining a lot of weight early on then slowed by the end. She seemed fairly confident I would have a similar experience this time but did warn that she'd have to keep an eye on me. Hey! I can't help that I have an avocado-sized human demanding food all day! I suppose I can help, however, going for a second serving of oreo pie or skipping a daily walk.

I read that this week the baby is starting to grow toenails. Every once in a while, reading something like that really causes me pause. I painted Deviney's toenails this last week. Pink, in fact. It's hard to think that this growing, forming baby is making the same toenails that I could one day be painting on the bathroom floor (unless we have a boy... in which case I will try to refrain).

15 Weeks!

I never really think I look very big until we take the weekly timeline picture. I might have been better off to do these with my shirt pulled down.

So this marks the 15th week of pregnancy and I will be going to the doctor this week (finally!). I get so excited for doctor's appointments until about the night before when I remember they are going to weigh me. I could live without that part. It should be a law that pregnant women are not allowed to look at the scale - all weighing is done facing the opposite direction. I laugh at myself because I always take off my shoes before getting on the scale, even when I am wearing flip-flops. I thought it was (maybe a little) absurd until I saw someone else do it the last time I had an appointment. Phew - I'm not the only crazy one.

There's not much new to report this week, except that this belly keeps growing! It might have something to do with the fact that the only things I want to eat include: ice cream, chocolate, cereal, chocolate, candy, pop tarts, chocolate, and sometimes fruit (covered in chocolate). Oh, and I want to eat those things ALL the time. I seriously had hunger pains 2 hours after eating a bowl of cereal today. I blame the baby, which is one of the perks of being pregnant.

After much discussion, Drew and I have decided not to find out the sex of the baby. I know, I know - you are disappointed. You can be angry with me because to be honest, I did most of the discussing... Drew eventually just caved. Poor guy - he knew he never stood a chance. I love surprises and I really do feel like not finding out with our first was the best surprise I have ever had in my life. I am certain I will feel the same way about this one.

Oh, and to add to that - we won't be sharing our name choices, either. Just imagine all the surprises you have to look forward to in December.... right?

14 Weeks = Trimester 2!

I keep reading that by about now, pregnancy fatigue typically subsides. I say that's a lie. Either that or I continue to use pregnancy as an excuse for falling asleep on the couch, yawning during the day, and begging to sleep in (when my daughter is clearly calling for "MOOOOMMMMY!" in the morning).

It's beyond me why I forget so much about being pregnant from the first time. The timing of things, the stages, the "rules" (but don't worry, I am not drinking)... In a lot of ways, I am glad I had a blog for Deviney, though I could live without the reminder of how much bigger my belly is week-by-week this time around.

One thing I don't forget, though, is the wait. Waiting to see the doctor again, waiting to hear the heartbeat, waiting to know everything was going well, waiting to feel relief. My next doctor's appointment isn't until the 24th and it feels like a lifetime away. I used to think they had it all backwards - weekly appointments should happen in the early stages of pregnancy and then by the end you could go every 4 weeks or so. Evidently, doctors know a little more on the subject than I do.

13 Weeks: If the Shoe Fits....

...Then it won't fit by the end of the week. In my case, however, it was a dress. Packing for a 4-day trip for an out-of-town wedding was not easy, especially when "in-between" regular clothes and maternity. I thought I had planned appropriately when I tried on the dress less than a week before the event. I actually thought it was big! Joke was on me, though, when the day came and the zipper screamed at me. I guess there's no denying it now - it's time for maternity clothes.

I pretend like it bothers me but in all honesty, I love being pregnant. I am one of those women that make other women mad. I usually feel great, I don't experience the awful symptoms others do, and - truth be told - I LOVE the belly. Don't be surprised if you see me in a bikini this summer at the pool or on the boat. I have no shame. I also don't mind people touching my belly or talking to my baby. In fact, I love it (unless you are a creepy stranger at the grocery store or a baseball game).

People frequently ask if Deviney understands she is going to be a big sister. If she is asked what is in mommy's belly, she will gladly tell you it's a baby. Although, she did point at her daddy's belly the other day and exclaimed, "BABY!" as she does to me (I think it's a bit early for the "birds and the bees" talk). She seems to be very excited when she sees other babies and she does not get upset or worked up when I hold another. I am fairly confident she has no idea she is going to be a big sister or that her world will get flipped upside down in December, but I cross my fingers the surprise will be a good one for her.

12 Weeks Already?!

So, I've got to stop taking these pictures at night... after dinner. Undoubtedly I have a belly but I can assure you it is not this big in the mornings (prior to my self-excused daily feasts). I've avoided maternity clothes so far (thank goodness for low-rise jeans!) but it won't be long before I give in and allow myself to be comfortable.

It's hard to believe we are at week 12 already. Funny how fast time passes when you are so focused on your first baby. In a way it's nice because it means this pregnancy should go quickly. In other ways I feel (already) like I am somehow cheating the new baby by not providing him/her the same attention I gave the first. Mothers' guilt is a real thing, ladies and gentlemen.

The baby should be about 2 inches long now, comparable to the size of a lime. Additionally, he/she is developing reflexes this week which will allow for opening and closing fingers, clenching eye muscles, toe curling, and sucking movements with his/her mouth. If this baby is anything like his/her big sister, he/she will start working on thumb sucking as soon as possible.

We will be traveling next week to kick off week 13 which means I may be slightly delayed in blogging. Rest assured, though, this baby will continue to thrive and I will continue to grow this belly!

Week 11: Here We Grow!

Drew says he can't see it, but there is no question there's a belly beginning here (keep in mind this photo was taken after dinner... and maybe a dessert). My, how things move fast with baby #2! This is apparently my body's way of saying, "Hey, I remember this!". I just hope it remembers as well when it's time to go back to normal.

All-in-all I have felt pretty good. Weeks 8 and 9 brought some nausea but it wasn't awful and didn't keep me from eating (just made me more selective). The fatigue has been a challenge, particularly because having a very busy 1 1/2 year old doesn't allow for much down time. But I take naps when possible and find I spend more time on the couch than I ever used to. I still feel very lucky because my symptoms have been very manageable and short-lived. I have felt great the last few weeks.

With a due date of December 10, I am now 11 weeks in. This means the baby has arms and legs and knows how to use them! Our ultrasound (Thursday) showed us that this child may not be much different than his/her very, very active big sister. Also, evidently he/she is about and inch and 1/2 long and almost fully formed (meaning most body parts are in place). Fingers and toes are even there!

So this week begins my weekly photo timeline and blog updates. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoy writing about this incredible experience.

Making Room...

"Making Room for Baby" seemed an appropriate title. Not only will we be making room in our house, our cars, our garage, and our lives, but we are every day making more and more room in our hearts. It is hard to imagine that any single person is capable of having so much love as the love he or she has for a child. Since Drew and I have learned it with our first (who is now 19 months old), we are certain to learn it all over again with this baby. We are delighted to make room for baby 2, in every sense of the phrase.

We found out I was pregnant on Friday, April 15th. Had it not been for a great deal of fatigue, I might not have even thought to take the test. In addition, my doctor had indicated early that month that we were likely to have another struggle this time. I had been devastated... until our surprise mid-April. At that point, I was about 6 weeks pregnant - and it was going to be another month before I would see the doctor.

I always assumed I would be calm and cool about pregnancy number two because, well, I had done it before! As it turns out, I was (am?) just as nervous, if not a little more. When you experience few symptoms and look and feel the same as before, it's sometimes hard to believe that a tiny little baby is growing inside you at an exponential rate. Positive pregnancy tests are fantastic reassurance but it's not quite the same as when you can see the baby and watch its tiny little heart flutter.

So I finally got the reassurance I needed on Thursday. In a matter of seconds from the start of the ultrasound, we saw it - a one-inch little miracle, with arms and legs eagerly moving about and that tiny little heart fluttering strongly. I gotta say, it was just as exciting and emotional as the first time.

So as we begin this incredible journey again, we are delighted to share with you the progress, stories, fears, experiences, and joys that will come with it. Drew, Deviney and I are thrilled to bring another baby into our lives and we are ever thankful that our lives include you.