31 weeks

You know you are on the home stretch when the milk in your fridge expires (02/28/10) after your due date (02/26/10).
This week was very overwhelming. As time marches on - I'm moving away from the fantasy and cushy feeling of having a baby and getting realistic about birthing and how life is going to inevitably change. Don't get me wrong - I am the most blessed fortunate woman in the world - I have everything most people can only dream for, but that still doesn't change the simple fact that life changes when you have a child.

I am attempting to get organized.

1. Excitement of the week - we have our nanny!
After fretting all last week about who we would select to spend their days with my precious child, she was literally under our noses the entire time. Lynn Kelly is a mother of two of the most wonderful, fun, loving, kind and creative children I've had the pleasure of meeting, she lives about 1.5 miles away from us and has had life long experience with infants and older children. She fits our budget and what's more she is family (sort of) We feel very privileged to have her schedule and care for our little one.

2. Achievement of the week - get NB-3 month clothes arranged
I had no idea how many onesies and outfits we had received from gifts and hand me downs - between Jessica Flores, mom and Andrea she has more clothes than Nate and I put together. Since she will be in our room for the first two months I bought baskets to better arrange the items we would need at a moments notice. As you can tell the crib is a mess we still need a mattress and our bedding which I can't wait to see - but just arranging her clothes already has made me feel a bit more ready. I am certain after the baby shower I will feel even more confident.


Franki is approximately 3.3 pounds, she can turn her head from side to side, and her arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath her skin. She's moves non stop sometimes it even hurts a little but not to the point of keeping me awake at night. I comforted in knowing my baby is active and healthy.

I have not had any soreness with my contractions this week - I definitely feel a tightening at times but it doesn't hurt at all. I'm measuring 40" around the belly. She has grown substantially in the last month.

30 weeks

I can't believe I have just 8 to 10 weeks to go! What a miracle life is, how quickly a human can form and develop. I am amazed and stand in awe of my God.

I have been extremely tired but I am convinced it has nothing to do with pregnancy and everything to do with the fact that I don't sit still until I get in bed, combined with all the Christmas sugar I have consumed and lack of excercise. Franki is a very active and fun child - I just love her so much she constantly has me talking to her and laughing to myself. We got the new Rihanna cd in a gift exchange so I play it in my car ad I really think she likes it - she moves even more to that cd!

I can't believe its the eve - of Christmas eve, this is our first Christmas as a married couple and last Christmas being "DINK's" (Double income no kids), next year Franki will be 10 months old enjoying the festivities along side us! I so look forward to that, sharing the meaning of Christmas with children is what its all about.

In the midst of all the excitment of the holidays, our fast approaching birth and finding out two more very special friends are pregnant (yay you guys!), I am going through guilt and sadness of having to hand Franki over to day care at just 6 weeks old when I have to return to work. I am losing my mind over finding a place thats not only the best of the best, but affordable and close to home/work too...the search continues...

I am pleased to announce so far - the oils, lotions and potions I've been using (or could be hereditary) have prevented stretch marks on my tummy (so far) Alas though I see signs of them on my legs a bit - but worse things can happen, I have been the picture of health the whole way through so am not going to start complaining now.

29 weeks

I am starting to feel a bit tired at work these days around 1pm, but since I have an insaciable craving for citrus this week, I eat a grapefruit or several baby oranges and that seems to pep me up to get through the remainder of the day.

We had our doctor checkup Friday December 11, which went really well. I'm up to 20lb in weight gain which they said is okay. They talked to us about Braxton Hicks and what's to be expected in the third trimester. My vitals were all spot on and her heart rate is as it should be. We passed the glucose test with flying colors and shouldnt need any further testing for the remainder of the pregnancy.

Best part of my weekend, is my darling husband and father in law spent their precious time tearing up the nasty carpet in our bedroom and instead laid down some laminate that matches the rest of our house. Now, no more worries of grossness with the baby and if the dogs throw up...Or worse - its no longer an added stress. :-) Thanks guys!

I am pleased to announce the groin pain I mentioned last week has subsided, which is a great relief and I feel really comfortable again. They estimate Franki to be about 2.5 lbs in weight and her bones are getting stronger which explains the harder kicks. The nurse practioner; Jennifer was telling us to start doing "kick counts" That means if she doesn't have 10 obvious movements in an hour we need to go to triage. Well we've tested that out several times thus far and the little girl moves more like 20 times in 2 minutes :-)

Merry flat stomach Christmas to me!

I have 4 months after birth to get back into bikini shape so Franki and my love can enjoy the sun and sand California style! Hopefully I would have gained no more than 25lb's by the end but even that seems a daunting task. Excercise combined with breastfeeding good eating and my latest purchase I know I can do it!

My sister in law told me about the Belly Bandit. Typical...I did a mass load of research and come to find out it works almost as well as a tummy tuck! So with the raving reviews it was a no brainer. I purchased the bamboo wrap from the super site www.bestbabyorganics.com and saved myself money - not only was the shipping free but I received a 10% discount!

28 weeks

All I can say is Pressure!
I wonder if this feeling will last the rest of the pregnancy? My bones in my groin and lower abdomen makes me feel like Franki is ready! Its not painful, just really uncomfortable but I am relieved for a bit more sleep this week.

I am excited about entering into my third trimester - this is where my bbody is done preparing for pregnancy and starts preparing for birth. Franki can now blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through my womb, we tested this with a small torch and she responded with small movements. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

She wriggles all the time and also pushes hard up against my belly button, I keep telling her thats not where she will make her exit but I don't think she believes me!

I was fortunate that my sister in law is only a month ahead of me and we have similar names, I was able to go and get a prenatal massage with her account at the spa. It felt so good even though it was odd layinmg on my side instead of my tummy. I look forward to getting another one somewheer down the line.

27 weeks

Its nearly Christmas time!!! This year I have spent allot of time reflecting, to think next year we will be celebrating the holidays with our 11 month old! I was so overjoyed when my love said we could go get a tree, we have slowly been collecting ornaments that are indicative of us...pizza, wine, robots, snowflakes and snowboarding...and I bought a few more basics but when we picked up our short and stubby tree I didn't care about the size I was just so happy to enjoy the smell and decorate!!! Having Danielle with us makes it that much more special to be able to share.

I have not had much time to read of late, in fact I have not had time to do anything. I have been blessed this week with a few more small freelance jobs that will hopefully be able to go straight to savings and cover bills when I am not working to stay home with the growing bean.

I am really big now, in the last 5 days I have billowed and now practically nothing fits anymore, so as a result exercise has been at the top of my mind. I figure like a triathlon, manageable labors happen to women who have prepared by means of resting, learning and taking care of general health. I have been doing yoga about once a week with a friend Belinda from Soul Fusion, so far it has offered me comfort mentally, and physically but the biggest challenge of all is finding the time to do it everyday because that's where I will really see results.

26 weeks: Thanksgiving

What a day to celebrate the 27 week mark. Thanksgiving November 26, 2009.
I am so grateful and fortunate to have our healthy baby girl growing stronger and stronger in my belly each day. I am thankful that as far as pregnancy's go I have had a really "easy" time. As we complete the last lap of the 2nd trimester and start moving into the third I can definitely feel some dramatic changes in the last week.

Meltdown
I have been emotional, not to say its the pregnancy for certain, as I am always a little sad around the holidays being in a different hemisphere from my family, but I have been weepy over the silliest things and feel completely unattractive. My love says I look wonderful, he has been nothing short of dependable, loving, nurturing and understanding. I am thankful for that. I know, I know: I’m pregnant. I’m totally not complaining about the amount of weight I’ve gained because I feel okay with that. It’s just my whole body is different and changing for a baby.

My stomach is so big that I can’t see anything below my bellybutton. My arms are more flabby. My butt has widened. My legs resemble cottage cheese. My boobs are out of control complete with blue veins...And don’t even get me started on what’s going on with my hips…As my sister mentioned, thank goodness its not summer with every bikini clad bombshell scooting about before my eyes. Its cold enough now that most everyone is just as wrapped up as I am. Okay so enough with the violins...The plus side is that my sister in law, who I might add is a month ahead of me and smaller than me...Can vent until the cows come home being in the same frame of mind.

25 weeks

What a fun and relaxing week this has been.
My big project at work for the week was to go to the beach each day and stack rocks then photograph them. The purpose of this was to avoid having to buy stock photography for a new campaign. At first I was wary because my body is uncomfortable in any other position other than standing, sitting or laying on my side. It turned out to be very relaxing with the seagulls around, the sound of the ocean crashing and the feel of the sand between my toes.

Another Baby is Born
Our friends Noah and Bri baby girl Shae was born on Wednesday, she looks so much like her dad and is absolutely perfect. Bri's birthing made our due date seem so much closer and s much more real! She was very kind to explain the details of her special day. I have not yet met Shae, and am looking forward to the day that I will. She will most likely be one of our daughters close friends! Bri and Noah have the same doctor as us, Dr. Chortkoff as well as delivered at the same hospital we will deliver!

Baby Shower
My sister in law had her baby shower on Saturday. It was so fun to gather together in celebration of Bennet's up and coming birth. When cousin Bennet is born, now that will really be crazy because we are only 4 weeks apart so I will know very soon after it will be our turn. Andrea got some beautiful and useful things and enjoyed herself. She has been on bed rest since starting early contractions but since she has been home its improved significantly. I know he is just going to be a cutey like his big brother Wyatt.

Glucose Test
On Thursday it was time for fasting. Thank goodness my appointment was in the morning so it was a bit easier to hold out. When I got to the doctors office they gave me a bottle of orange liquid to down, it tasted a bit like and orangesicle, not too bad. I then had to wait exactly an hour and then get my blood drawn. The doctor said that if I don't hear from her that I would have passed the test! So far so good. Gestational diabetes can be a huge pain during your pregnancy so I thank the Lord I don't have it! Other than that I was told my weight and iron and everything else is spot on. I am really so blessed!

24 weeks: Letter to our daughter

November 5, 2009

Dear Baby girl,

Wow, I can’t believe how fast time is going and how fast you are growing! It seems like just yesterday that you resembled a “smudge” (no offense) on the 8 week ultrasound. Now you are a big girl, with hair and lung branches and moving all the time, especially when your dog Mr. Scruff barks and when your dad speaks.

There’s not too much longer to go, but please try to stay warm and cozy in there for at least 12 more weeks. You need to continue to “bake” and be the healthiest that you can be so that there won’t be any problems with you make your entrance into the world. I am sorry about all my coughing, I found out yesterday from the doctor at urgent care that I have a sinusitis with a nasal drip and although I would love to ease yoru tension by taking medication to stop the coughing, I am limited because I don't want those nasty chemicals effecting you in anyway.

You are in my every thought and dad and I want to be the best parents we can be to you. Of course that will come with a lot of worrying (mostly on my part), but I’ll try not to bother you with that. I don’t want to be “that” kind of mom.

Speaking of worrying, I was watching Oprah the other day and was a little disturbed how fast kids are growing up these days, not just mentally but physically thats why I have taken certain measures to ensure I consume as many food and drink items that are organic as possible so you don't get boobs at 10 years old. I hope that you take your time being a kid. Please don’t try to grow up too quickly because you’ll have your whole life to be an adult and have responsibilities.

Today I have had allot of lemon juice and honey to ease my coughing and I don't know if its the sour or the sweet but you have been kicking up a storm, I played a game by place a pencil on my belly when I was at work and you kicked it right off! I always try to get your dad to feel you, but you're a tease and stop as soon as he puts his hand on me.

Speaking of your dad, I just wanted to tell you how wonderful he is. I’m sure you’ll figure that on your own when you finally get to meet him, but I’ll give you a heads up right now about him. You know, I really lucked out with marrying such a great guy. I won’t get all sappy on you because I’m sure you’ll find that to be gross, but just know that you have an amazing dad, he has such integrity, works very very hard to provide for us, loves us conditionally and is very kind to all animals and humans. He does everything in his power to make sure that I’m happy and I know that it will increase so much with you (if that’s even possible).

He says that you and I are his driving force. See, I bet you didn’t know what an impact you have on us already. Everything we do is with you in mind. We even talk about how it will be once you are here. Honestly, I really can’t imagine how life will be with you here, but I’m excited to find out! I just hope that you know how much we already love you.

I hear all the time that a person doesn’t know what love is until they are a parent. I can’t wait to experience that because I feel like I already do know what love is because of how much I love your dad, our dogs, and you.

Love,

Your mommy

23 weeks

I can barely keep up with my blog time flies by so fast!

The baby girl is doing great! She loves to move her head toward the lower front of my belly which hurts allot, but I just gently tap her and ask her to move and being the obedient daughter she is..she moves :-) She is more than 11 inches long and already weighs over a pound. They say her hearing is really keen and so I hesitate to stop the dogs barking so she can get used to them now so she isn't as freaked out once she is out the womb.

Nate took this picture of me whilst we were out celebrating his 31st birthday over the weekend (11/1/09). I am loving the bump and even bought a new dress to celebrate the enormous bulge. My belly button is becoming flatter abd flatter which means the next step is to pop outward...stay tuned for that momentous announcement!

I am starting to have a tough time time climbing out the bathtub after a shower as I am finding my kneee kicks my belly as I left to step over. I have also noticed my shoes getting progressively tighter, not because my feet are swollen but because I think they are growing...with everything else. I just had my hair cut two weeks ago and it has grown so fast I already look like the Quacker oatmeal guy!

My Granny's Purse

I could not help myself to order this book "My Granny's Purse" Its way too far in advance but I know she will love it when she gets to 3. Both my mom and Nate's mom have purses full of interesting things, both of them are always lugging everything but the kitchen sink--just in case!

Thought for the day...

Before you were conceived I wanted you.
Before you were born I loved you.
Before you were here for an hour I would die for you.
This is the miracle of life.
Maureen Hawkins

Birth Plan

We're looking forward to sharing our birth experience with you. We have created this birth plan in order to outline some of our preferences for birth. We understand that there may be situations in which our choices may not be possible, but we hope that to move toward with our goals as much as possible and to make this labor and birth a great experience. We do not want to replace the medical personnel, but instead want to be informed of any procedures in advance, and to be allowed the chance to give informed consent.

Labor
-Please do not perform routine prepatory tasks (shaving, enema, etc.), unless requested.
-I expect that doctors and hospital staff will discuss all procedures with me before they are performed.
-I will remain hydrated by drinking moderate amounts of fluids (water & juice).
-So I can stay as mobile as possible, I would prefer to have a heparin lock administered instead of an IV.
-Please do not administer an IV or heparin lock unless there is a clear medical indication that such is necessary.
-I would like a quiet, soothing environment during laborwith minimal interruptions.
-Please limit the number of vaginal exams.
-Please do not permit observers such as interns, students or unnecessary staff into the room without my permission.
-To preserve my privacy and dignity, I would prefer that everyone knock before entering.
-The only persons allowed in my room during birth should be my husband, Nate Bruno

Labor Induction/Augmentation
-I would like to avoid induction unless it is medically necessary.
-I would like to try alternative means of labor augmentation, like walking or nipple stimulation, before pitocin or artificial rupture of membranes is attempted.
-If induction is necessary, I would like to attempt it with prostaglandin gel or another means before pitocin is administered.
-Please do not rupture my membranes artificially unless medically indicated.

Cesarean Section Delivery
-I feel very strongly that I would like to avoid a cesarean delivery.
-If a cesarean is necessary, I expect to be fully informed of all procedures and actively participate in decision-making.
-I would like Nate Bruno to be present during the surgery.
-If possible, I would like to breastfeed Our daughter immediately after the birth.

Perineal Care
-I prefer not to have an episiotomy unless it is medically indicated.
-To avoid episiotomy or tearing, Nate Bruno or my labor assistant will perform perineal massage with oil and apply hot compresses.
-To help my perineum stretch, please help guide my pushing efforts by letting me know when to push and when to stop.
-Please administer local anesthesia when repairing any episiotomy or tear(s).
-Please suture tears only if necessary.

After birth
-Please place Our daughter on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.
-I would like to breastfeed Our daughter immediately.
-The doctor will cut the cord.
-Please remove my IV/Heparin lock/catheter as soon as possible after delivery.

Newborn Care
-Please evaluate and bathe Our daughter at my bedside.

Postpartum
-I would prefer not to be catheterized until I've had some private time to attempt urination on my own.
-If available, I would prefer a private room.

Breastfeeding
-I plan to breastfeed and want to nurse immediately following the birth.
-I would like to know more about breastfeeding.
-I would like to meet with the staff lactation consultant.

22 weeks

Reflexology
A friend of mine Belinda offered to ease my tension and lack of sleep by doing a session of reflexology. She concentrated on me being pregnant and what was best for our baby girl, it was an amazing experience. Not only did I elapse into an Alpha state but my sinus issues seems to disappear. Now whether that was the candles or me being on my back or the reflexology I don't know but it was soothing all the same. A very interesting happening occurred at home about 15 minutes after the reflexology. I had contractions, strong contractions for about 10 minutes. I wasn't sure how to handle them so I got on all fours and just breathed slowly. I wasn't sure if laying on my back for 45 minutes or the reflexology was what brought it on, but one thing I can say if it brings on contractions I am doing it again closer to the birthing day to help minimize my chances of being induced.

Exercise
I have been taking it slow, going to my friend Jessica's gym to workout, I do a little pre-core machine and some light weights but that's been about it. Well this week I decided to walk 3 miles. I started to cramp miserably so stopped several times. I thought walking would be good for me but clearly there was too much stress otherwise I assume there would not have been such pain. I am going to keep with my previous plan as I never experienced any cramping of any sort.

Baby Specs
Our little girl is about 11 inches long now and almost 1 pound. Her lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and she's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath her gums. Her eyes have formed, but her irises still lack pigment.

Still no sign of stretch marks but then my belly is still only measuring 37" I am obviously pregnant now and have had a few friends asked to touch my belly, I love it. I am not sure why people don't like their bellies touched, but I think its cute that people want to connect with our little girl. She seems to have slowed her movements down a bit, instead of being a jumping bean her movements feel to be a little more fluid.

We are 100% certain on her name and I will be "going public" with it pretty soon :-)

21 weeks

10/15/09
Another great week with my baby girl. I am relieved the weather will get cooler as I get bigger. I had to buy my second pair of maternity pants as the jeans I purchased are already losing their color I wear them so much. My Cyndee, my mom in law surprised me with a bag of comfortable, fitting versatile tops that I can wear casual or even to work so I should be good for another few months. Me and baby bean are growing at a rapid pace. I am now up to 142 lb - a whole 7 lb in one month. I feel healthy though so am not worried. I love my vegetable snacks and am still working out when I get the time.

At my appointment on Friday 10/16/09 I found out she is weighing about 11 ounces and is about 10.5 inches long toe to head. She feels strong and active. I notice she sleeps when I exercise and clean house - I suppose my movement rocks her. She is awake at night when I'm trying to sleep or sitting still at my desk. My sleep is getting increasing disjointed and I have had a few Braxton Hicks contractions. My butt gets achey when I sit too long, but aside from that - I still feel like a million bucks, no swelling, acne or sciatic pain. I am forgetful and really question my sanity at times, leaving my car door open to go into the grocery store, forgetting simple vocabulary and leaving my car keys wherever I go. I keep hearing its normal, I hope so and I sure hope it goes away fast.

Our little sister will be staying with us for a few months which we are very excited about so the nursery decorating will be put on hold. There wasn't much more we could do anyway until after the baby shower so it all times out perfectly. I watched "The Happiest Baby On The Block" DVD for the second time this week and am convinced this has to work with our little girl. Its all about swaddling and white noise and seems to work wonders. I pray she likes being swaddled :-)

Cyndee has started getting ideas together for our baby shower which will be on January 9 2010, a good month before her birth. Also I wanted to make sure it was before Andrea births so she could be there to celebrate.

15 Things that change when you have a baby

1. You finally stop to smell the roses, because your baby is in your arms.

2. Where you once believed you were fearless, you now find yourself afraid.

3. The sacrifices you thought you made to have a child no longer seem like sacrifices.

4. You respect your body ... finally.

5. You respect your parents and love them in a new way.

6. You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.

7. You believe once again in the things you believed in as a child.

8. You lose touch with the people in your life whom you should have banished years ago.

9. Your heart breaks much more easily.

10. You think of someone else 234,836,178,976 times a day.

11. Every day is a surprise.

12. Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you. (Hooray for poop!)

13. You look at your baby in the mirror instead of yourself.

14. You become a morning person.

15. Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

20 weeks

What an eventful week! Maternity experiences by the dozens! The Good, the bad and the ugly.

The Good
On Monday 10/5 we went to to Mira Mesa for the dun-dun-daaaaah BIG ULTRASOUND! I was anxious because this is the ultrasound where they look and every nook and cranny of your infant to determine if there are any concerns physically, so the variables are numerous. Well as predicted...She is perfect! We saw her two kidneys, where her skull joins her spin, her heart and stomach, bones, spine and of course the parts that confirmed she' indeed is a girl. The lady that spend 45 minutes caressing my belly with a machine and warm fluid couldn't say much. With every question she simply answered, "your doctor would like to tell you that." So I'm not sure yet on her weight or length. I did find out her foot size is 1.5 inches. THATS BIG! She seems to have her dads legs and my big running/swimming feet!

I measured my bump...We are 36 inches now. I feel large because nothing fits, but seeing other pregnant woman further along, it seems I am not large at all. I feel happy that at my half way mark I am still somewhat just a swollen mellon, this gives me the next 4 months to grow slow and hopefully skip out on the joys of stretch marks.

My dear friend Ms. Wright was so thoughtful to give me a baby journal. I have been keeping a good log of happenings, documenting my feelings and adding pictures. At first I thought it would be like a ships captains log, but was pleased to find out its more like a personal story. A narration of my pregnancy written to our beloved child that she can read one day.It has me more and more inspired now to do a scrapbook too...You know with all the spare time I have. {wink}

Her bedroom is well under way. Daddy dear hung up some curtains and shelves and I found the most darling rug in al the colors of the robot pillow. I bought two canvases that I plan on painting. Currently I am designing the concept...girlie robots. Its a challenge.

We received a couple really nice gifts this week, already she is spoiled and I don't mind a bit. Ms. Santillo found bubblegum pink Havianas with a back strap so they don't slide off her feet. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw them, they will be perfect for next summer when she is in a bikini and fat belly.

I met with Ms. Gibson for some nursery tips and to borrow some books and she handed over a hardly used Baby Bjorn. It will be perfect for dad when he is out and about and needs both hands...NOw if we can just figure out how to open and close the darn thing. We need to practice on BD!

I had made up my mind that I would rent a double-hands free - breast pump from the hospital. Well come to find out, total cost for that pump would be around $400! Frantically I started looking for good pumps to add to our registry. They tell me that if you get a mediocre pump it hurts the girls something crazy. After allot of research and review reading I realize the $350 pump at Babies R Us is what I need...But over my pudgy body was I gonna pay that amount of money. EBAY TO THE RESCUE...I found the exact pump I wanted/needed with books and accessories for half the price! $130! Breast Pump - check!

The Bad
No sleep. They say this is natures way of preparing you for when baby comes, I say...WTF? I will lose enough sleep after the arrival of our precious heart...Tell nature to let me sleep extra well now!? Please? I believe its the hormones. Thats what "they" say. I say it may be the peeing 6 times a night, or possibly getting used to sleeping on my side...Really it could be anything. I am slowly learning how to succumb the midnight alerts. I take a tylenol PM...and a shove a pillow between my legs. It helps a bit.

The Ugly
Excess hair.
Glass half full - I'd say that this has been the most fun time ever to try new haircuts. My hair is growing so fast that if don't like the style, no sweat. Its thick and full and shiny...just as they tell you it will be.
Glass half empty - I am afraid to even go there, but I can say one thing my grooming regime has had to step it up a notch...Or two. Places that I didn't think it could even grow...Yup, its there.

18 weeks

I am almost halfway done, at the beginning of this week, I said I could easily be pregnant 20 months I am finding this such a joyous and easy time, but I know as I get bigger I won't feel the same way!

The HUGE progression this week is that I can feel her. Thursday I felt two knocks in my lower right abdomen. I thought it was too hard to be an air bubble so pushed that part of my belly in with my fingers and hey presto...two knocks again in the same place. I have become so much more aware now "listening" out for more movement. She seems very active between 3:30pm and 5:30pm but thankfully seems to sleep in the night as she never knocks to wake me up. I've heard so often "how amazing" the feeling is but I never imagined it was this beautiful. I almost want to cry whenever she lets me know she is there.

The other notable thing to mention is how much bigger I have suddenly gotten just in a week, as I mention at "17 weeks" I was told she would almost double in size. Last week I hardly looked pregnant and this week I am huge! I cannot fit into my jeans anymore and I had to buy my first official maternity jeans from Motherhood. They are so comfy, they have a wide elasticated band that goes right over my entire stomach.

My appetite has grown significantly, although there are no specific cravings I am leaning toward fruits and veggies, thankfully! Today I ate an entire avocado to myself.

Specs say this week she is about 5 and a half inches head to rump and her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. When I talk to her I always ask her what she is doing. As if she has a whole bunch to do, but I think she is responds to my exercise and to our surround sound. I tell her how much I love her and how her dad and I can't wait to meet her. Today I told her all about my mom, her grandmother in Africa and how she would be having a birthday this weekend. I always wonder if she hears my voice.

Hospital Packing List

Since research and research some more, is my thing...Its not surprising that I already started my packing list. In fact I saw some girls on Baby Centers list and it got me thinking...So why not have a list I can edit at anytime :-)

Labor Bag:
-medical records for nurse, and all insurance papers
-lavender massage oil
-easily digestible foods (fruit, yogurt, crackers)
-hard candy
-comfortable loose pants, and a tank top
-extra underwear, slippers
-burt's bees chapstick
-camera
-Phone numbers of people you (Or hunny) needs to call
-Ipod soothing music
-Cell phone
-magazines

Hospital stay after birth:
-sleep clothes designed for nursing, no underwire (2)
-robe
-socks
-granny panties; I heard the mesh ones they give you at the hospital are gross and fall off.
-toiletries (toothbrush/paste, shampoo, soap, deodorant, lotion, light makeup, tylenol, lotion)
-favorite sweatpants, you betcha.
-soft cotton t-shirts, or tank tops, I liked tank tops.
-nursing pads, maxi pads (heavy flow)
-clips and hairbands and stuff.
-A pillow from home is nice, and even an extra comfy blanket
-change for vending machine
-Car Seat
-Breastfeeding pillow

For Baby:
-baby t-shirts with snap side closure (I'm thinking a onesie would irritate the cord?)
-Blanket for bringing baby home, it'll be Feb and cold
-Baby's going home outfit

17 weeks

9/17/09
Wow - time is flying by. At 9:40am I went into to see Dr Chortkoff for a checkup. They took my blood for the second trimester, weighed me- up another 3LB (total 135lb) and listened to our little girls heartbeat on the doppler. It was about 130bpm which Dana said was normal and she probably thought she was sleeping.

Over the last couple of days I have been feeling odd movement, I thought at first it was the liquid in my body moving around, then I thought I had gas byt today, I am pretty sure I can feel her moving.I read that at first its like a butterfly feeling which I definitely had a bit of last week but this week has been more of a motion feeling. I look forward to that feeling getting stronger.

According to my books and websites I should be feeling a little off balance and getting itchy skin with the stretching. So far I have neither. I hope and pray that it stays that way, I have made it thus far without the "usual" symptoms :-)

I did some reading on products for stretch marks. It seems lotions can't really prevent the stretch marks, if anything they alleviate the itchiness. The best advice seems to be that I don't gain weight too fast and that I drink plenty of water, both of which I am doing.

When I was weighed in my appointment I had gained 3lb from the last weigh in so overall I have gained a healthy 5lb. The nurse Jennifer said that I don't need worry, at this rate I will put on the suggested 25lb by birth. I just want my baby to be healthy and have enough poundage for birthing.

Well I am off to Yardage Town to see what sort of fabrics I may find for the very blank nursery.

4D ultrasound - 16 weeks

Good eating for baby and me

A friend of mine is a wonderful nutritionist, she suggested some great books to read on eating when pregnant that I wanted to share:

"Expect the Best: Your Guide to Healthy Eating Behavior Before, During and After Pregnancy"
"Feed the Belly: The Pregnant Mom's Healthy Eating Guide"

I hardest thing I have found is having to cut back on fish. I used to eat it about 3 to 4 times a week and now really have to limit my intake. I find green salads don't fill me and I have a constant urge for pasta and rice just to feel that full belly. I try to stick to the whole grains.ings"

Here is one of my favorite pregnancy meals that baby loves too:

Brocco Mac and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food grows up a little in this healthy version. It’s still rich and cheesy, but it also gets extra calcium from the dried milk powder and the broccoli. The top gets nice and crunchy from the breadcrumbs.

Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 33 minutes
Makes 6 servings

Baby Bonus:
More than 30 percent of your daily calcium needs—for Baby’s growing bones—wrapped up in cheesy goodness.

Momma Must-Have:
You get to indulge your comfort food craving without feeling the least bit guilty.

2 cups 1% organic milk
1 tablespoon nonfat dried milk powder
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
6 ounces organic shredded cheddar cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 10-ounce package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
8 ounces whole-wheat macaroni, cooked
¼ cup dry breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF. Spray an 11x7-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. Combine the milk with the milk powder in a measuring cup or small bowl. Set aside.
3. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour. Cook, stirring constantly for two minutes.
4. Add the milk gradually, whisking after each addition. Cook for a total of 5 minutes until mixture thickens, whisking constantly. Remove from heat.
5. Add the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the warm milk mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the cheese melts, about a minute. Stir in the broccoli and cooked macaroni. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumbs and Parmesan on top, and put in the oven.
6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden on top. Let sit for 5 minutes before digging in.

Calories 276; Fat 13 g (Sat 7 g, Mono 0 g, Poly 0 g); Cholesterol 41 mg; Protein 16 g; Carbohydrate 28 g; Sugars 6 g; Fiber 3 g; Iron 1 mg; Sodium 383 mg; Calcium 360 mg; Folate 37 mcg; Beta-Carotene 290 mcg

16 weeks

It was a very big day for us today, we could barely contain ourselves waiting for 1:30 when we would see our child in a 4D ultrasound. We went to "The Ultrasound Experience" in San Marcos, the ladies that work there were excited and friendly and we even received a small gift for being referred by a friend. Best results for a 4D sonogram is 23 weeks so we knew our baby would look "skinny", the key reason for us making the appointment was to find out the gender, but seeing her up there, seeing her move, her heartbeat, her hands and nose, was priceless.

She was fast asleep when we started, she was clutched to the placenta which is as big as she is, when the tech started to poke my belly she started to move, she opened her mouth, she kicked her legs, moved her arms and hugged and rubbed her face on the placenta. We already know she is a cuddle bug. IT was crazy to see her moving so much and yet I couldn't feel a thing.


We took two pairs of booties to the tech and told her to secretly put whichever booties belonged to the the appropriate gender into a sealed box. We took that box with the ultrasound image inside displaying the gender parts to mom and dad's house, we invited Jessica and the rest of the family was there. We opened the box and all got the same news at the same time. We were not expecting to see the girl booties but are so overjoyed to be having the first girl Bruno grandchild. In celebration, Stephanie gave us this beautiful designer clothes from Mabels and mom gave us a sweet little robot for her room. Yes a robot...thats the theme :-)

THIS WEEK: Apparently she will double in size. Already she is about 4 1/2 inches long. I think I started feeling her, a fluttery, fizzy feeling at night but that could be so many things. My belly is still on the small size yet clothes are starting to feel more snug. I am loving the little VW Rabbit so much I even named "her" Jessica..as in Jessica Rabbit :-) The big craving over the last 5 days...fresh tart lemonade with bits.

BIRTH: Drew Jalen Davis was born today to proud parents Drew and Angelique and sister Mia. He was 7.1 pounds and is 21 inches long. He is a perfect little guy and I can't wait for our little girl to met her friends. Drew just born, Nayeli Jessica Flore's baby girl and her cousin Bennett Ritchie due in January!

What could it be?

15 weeks

4 months today! Gone are the days that people refer to months, everything is in weeks and we have 25 weeks to go! My belly has finally popped past the point of the "beer belly" and actually looks like a "bun in the oven" I even measured the bump and for those of you in the US it is a whopping 35 inches round.

Still...I feel awesome. Full of energy, no cravings, no worries or weird stuff. This little person is such a blessing. Yesterday I was tempted to do the inteligender, but the hubby wants to wait until our 20 week mark when its 100% accurate. The intelligender test is only 90% accurate. We will also find out the same time as the family which is very important to him. So we wait. Just a tad longer. :-)

I would say this week I have been consumed with decorating ideas. My parents brought us a pillow from South Africa with cute little robots all over. I LOVE ROBOTS, so will be using this one pillow as my inspiration. If its a girl I think I will lean towards the sunny colors: Orange, red and yellow. If its a boy I will lean towards the cool colors: greens and blues. I found a super deal on a Graco crib too...I will be going with my MIL this weekend to check it out! I'm very excited to get started...Thats the planner in me.


Another big move in the baby direction is we downsized our car! I sold the luxury shi-shi-la-la car and got the slick city economy car for the cool mom :-) This is my 6th VW and it goes like a bullet, the trunk space is super roomy, perfect for the Bob, its a heavy car with thick doors so very secure and safe too. Cutting our payments in half will help the budget for our little family.

14 weeks

8/27/09
This has been a great week. I am firing on all cylinders again and even did a two mile swim. Baby is the size of a lemon now and my belly is a tad bit bigger but nothing you'd recognize in a picture yet. I will probably have hubby take a new bump picture at 16 weeks.

Something new: Allergies.
Its crazy. At first I thought I was fighting a cold. Then I thought maybe it was a one or two day thing. Nope! This whole week I have had so much congestion, repetitive sneezing and a snotty nose. I have allergies! I have never ever in my entire life been allergic to anything, and now it appears that I am allergic to pollen and dust. I hope it runs its course through the pregnancy and then goes away forever :)

I learned so much this week about your first BM after labor! Yet another example of what nobody tells you about!

I know gross, right?
My friend is about to pop, she is due in two weeks with her second and she was telling me last night about the pain associated with your first poop after birth. Let me tell you, and I will spare you the details, it sounded horrific! If you tore, or have hemorrhoids, do research!! None of my books mention this. Even though they give you stool softener you are so backed up it doesn't really work.

After some research this is what I am going to do a day or two after birth:
• Papaya pills (chewable over the counter) 3 times a day
• Add 2 tablespoons of Castor oil to a smoothie (be careful not to take it before birthing, it could induce labor and also make the baby poop in the uterus)
• Eat fiber
• Take the stool softeners

Our first baby purchase!

We were so excited to make our first purchase for our little one. We got the Baby Trend Zanzibar play yard with bassinet. We got a super deal!

Even though our nursery theme will be robots (no matter if its a girl or guy :-), this play yard will be next to our bed for the first weeks before the transition to crib. This unit is also very easy to fold and unfold and will be useful when we go out of town or need to send the tyke to grammy and pop for the night. He/she will be able to sleep in this play yard up until 2 years they say!

I love how it has pockets for accessories, it has a little motor thing that makes the bed vibrate, not to mention, it matches our home decor colors :-)

13 weeks

Time for the first bump picture. For those who have been asking and wondering here it is. Its enough to stick out of my cute tank tops and make me look like I have consumed too much beer, but not enough to be "oh she's pregnant" so I have been keeping my clothing very lose and flowing. As soon as I have a definite "pregnancy" bump I will work it :-)

We had our second checkup on August 19 and got to meet Dr. Dana Chortkoff our OBGYN. She said that I have gained 2 LB (total of 132LB) since our 8 week check up and listened to the heartbeat on a Doppler. It was a healthy 150BPM (Average is 140-160) I also got some blood drawn for down syndrome testing. I was disappointed that we didn't get another ultrasound as we would love to get another visual of our little one. Nate has been amazing as everyone can expect and plans on being at almost all the appointments. Dr. Chortkoff said that our bean is almost 3 inches. We have another one of these appointments in a month.

12 weeks

I feel great! I have no complaints what-so-ever. My bump is little but its there. What's more is the little bit of tiredness I have experienced is subsiding. A week ago I I decided I needed more that sure and carbs for my breakfast. I started with whey protein shakes but found them to be too "flavored" and "milky". Our friends told us about Sam Gerard's "Ultimate Meal" so although is on the pricey side I read up on it, found it to be safe for expecting moms and bought some along with a "bullet". Every morning I combine it with Almond Milk and a fruit like blueberry's or banana. I was adding ground flax seed but have since learned it is not recommended for pregnant woman.

The Ultimate Meal is 100% Vegan, Mostly Organic, and High Raw.
It's Loaded with nutrients - Even though I get plenty of vitamin and minerals throughout my week by trying to rotate foods and such, I'm still interested in making sure I have as many bases covered as possible. Additionally, The Ultimate Meal has a number of things that I would like more of in my diet.

So, how does it taste? It's good. I'm not jumping up and down, licking my lips and wanting to lick the glass to get every last drop of it, but I'm also not grimacing and making icky faces either. If you're avoiding fruit for some reason, then you can make it with a raw nut/seed milk (hemp would be great) and add a sweetener such as stevia.

Bottoms Up!

11 Weeks

As I have said to many of my friends, I am more concerned with what to do with the little "guy" once "he" arrives. I know I want to make life as easy for "him" and for us as possible and get the maximum amount of rest. This desire to be a confident mother has lead me toward books that are more about infant care than actual pregnancy. I think if I was having a tough pregnancy with allot of illness or weird experiences my outlook may have been different. After plenty of asking, visiting blogs, reading twitter and hounding moms on facebook, my first purchase was "What to expect when You're expecting" This book scared me. It didn't have enough for me on the routine and sleep methods and I found the birthing information a little frightening. I am very concerned and have nightmares to reading about the possibilities and scary stuff is not good for me. I do know my friend Jessica loved it.

The next book was "A girlfriends Guide to Pregnancy" This book has been a light overview of pregnancy and the first weeks after birth. Its comical and a very enjoyable read written from the stand point of your friends advice. Still though I have not been satisfied with the aftercare, so my search continues.

8 weeks

07/17/2009
Today was our first appointment with the nurse practitioner. We learned what our medical insurance would and wouldn't cover, all about our screening options and confirmed we are pregnant :-)

I was extremely nervous, I have been surrounded by miscarriages and since I have not had a day of nausea of vomiting and obviously too soon for a bump, I did not even feel pregnant. All this fear dissolved in a flash when Elizabeth rubbed that ultra sound detector over my gel covered belly. We heard our babies heartbeat. 160 beats per minutes! My next thought...what is it?

5 weeks...The day I found out

I had just enjoyed two glasses of wine and 40 guests at my bridal shower. Everyone had left the party. The kitchen was clean and My girlfriend "Miss Tibbs" and I had our purses and a the door to leave when my SIL said..."wait before you go I want you to see the pictures I took." So we stood near the doorway looking at her great photography on her camera screen. I mentioned I thought my boobs looked larger than normal and had been hurting. Since I had only got off birth control in May, with the hope of conceiving on honeymoon, I suspected it was just an upcoming cycle.

My SIL was already 9 weeks pregnant and no longer had any need for her tests. She offered me one and declined saying it wasn't possible. She insisted and so as "Miss Tibbs", Andrea & Wyatt stood outside the bathroom door, I peed on the stick...

Immediately the two lines showed up! I couldn't believe what I was seeing. I was shaking. I couldn't hear a thing. They were talking and all I saw were their mouths moving. CRAZY!

Now to tell my beloved fiance...
The next day, June 21 2009 was Fathers day. I decided to wait.
Early morning when we woke up, I presented him with a box. Inside the box was my pregnancy test and a pair of little Nike booties. When he opened the box. I pronounced: "Happy Father's Day"

Needless to say we hugged each other with tears of joy for a long time :-)