Week 40

How far along? 40 weeks

How big is baby? A baby. Between 6 and 10 pounds, 18-21ish inches long

Total weight gain/loss: I was up to almost my WW starting weight on Wednesday at my appointment. 

Maternity clothes? Still have some non maternity items I can wear, like a really cute maxi dress I had on today. 

Sleep: Not good this week. Consistently waking up way too early.

Best moment this week: Getting Nick's car taken care of. Surprise shower thrown for me at the studio. 

Movement: He's slowed own some. Conserving his energy maybe?

Food Cravings: None. My appetite as actually decreased some. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Contractions coming nd going throughout the week. Lost my mucus plug Thursday. Baby seems to be settling lower and lower, given his increased pressure on my bladder and the pain in my crotch. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Exhaustion. Loss of breath. Frequent urination. Sore crotch. 

Belly Button in or out? In!

What I miss: People not being overly once rend with my cervix. 

What I am looking forward to: Meeting my little boy (hopefully) soon.

Upcoming appointments/events: Assuming I do go not labor, 40 week appointment is Monday at 10:30AM. 

Milestones: Full term. It's here at last. 

Week 39

In general, it was a rough week. I've gone back and forth with extreme energy and extreme exhaustion. We found out Nick is being transferred to a new school, which we have mixed feelings on, but once we realized is current job is being cut to part time, we do feel better. Additionally, we got a little more wok on the house done. Nick painted the downstairs wall, but the color doesn't match. The plumber came, and while he made progress, things aren't quite finished yet. And Nick was in a minor accident on Friday, which may have caused one major damage to his car. We're waiting to find out more. It's definitely been a roller coaster week. 

How far along? 39 weeks

How big is baby? Pretty much as big as he can be. A mini watermelon, anywhere from 6-10 lbs, and 19-21 inches. 

Total weight gain/loss: +1lb at the Dr on Thursday. 

Maternity clothes? I hate clothes. I have a few staples I am wearing, some maternity, some not. I wore a beach over up/sundress the past to nights and actually felt cute. 

Sleep: I've been pretty tired this week, although about every third morning (Wednesday and Saturday) I've been up ridiculously early. The actual sleep is OK though. I'm usually up during the 4AM hour, which makes me think he'll come around tat time. 

Best moment this week: Waking up Tuesday AM, and despite Nick having to go to work, I didn't!

Movement: Pretty active. Wednesday he did go through a quiet phase, but made up for it Thursday. 

Food Cravings: None. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Some inconsistent contractions. As of Thursday, still no change in dilation. Contractions (and back pain) increase while I'm up and active, but disappear when I sit down. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Swollen feet. They improved, and then got worse. My lady parts are also incredibly swollen. 

Belly Button in or out? In! I can do this-I can keep an innie the entire time!

What I miss: People not wanting to know the status of my cervix. It's very awkward. Additionally, if I could go back in time, I probably wouldn't have gotten any internal exams till this week. Ignorance is bliss, especially on something that could change so quickly. And it would really irritate them if I had no clue as to my status, too. 

What I am looking forward to: Finally not being pregnant. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Next appointment is Wednesday. I'm sure I'll be there, and not in the hospital. We also already have our 40 week appointment set up for Monday, June 10 at 10:30AM. 

Milestones: I guess the next major milestone will be either making it to my due date, or surviving labor. I'd really like this baby to come on this week. 

Sadly enough, it took 5 pictures to get this good of an expression. It was just not happening today.

I feel huge and low. Please let this be the week.

Week 38

How far along? 38 weeks.

How big is baby? Between 6 and 9 lbs and 19-21 inches, a pumpkin or the length of a leek. 

Total weight gain/loss: While I was down last week, I was up about 5 this week. I think a lot of that is luid, even how my feet and ankles have swollen up this week. 

Maternity clothes? Primarily. I had someone in Target last night ask me if I was wearing a BellaBand. I replied, "Not tonight, but I have one." We had a pleasant little chat about it.

Sleep: Ok. I still only wake up about once to go to the bathroom, and waking up brutally early with the dogs.

Best moment this week:Ummm...another week of several. 

1) Maternity leave officially started on Friday afternoon! I have about 40 research papers to finish grading, but otherwise I'm freeeeeeee.


2) The nursery is completely done. See yesterday's post. :-)


3) The new wall enclosing the loft is finished, just needs to be painted. We got the house cleaned up  from the sanding, and Dad pressure washed the house.
 
Movement: A lot.

Food Cravings: None. And my appetite has decreased.

Food Aversions: Bananas. I feel like a broken record.

Gender: Boy.

Labor Signs: I've had a few contractions this week. I feel like my body is getting ready, but it still has a ways to go.  

Pregnancy Symptoms: This week my feet have taken to swelling up-a lot. It's not painful, but I'm glad I can get away with wearing nothing but flip flops. 

See? Not pretty. 

Belly Button in or out?In, but tight.

What I miss: Not having to stop while cleaning because my back hurts or I'm exhausted.

What I am looking forward to: I'm starting to feel some trepidation about labor. And life with baby. I'm getting really nervous. I'm ready to have this baby, but at the same time, I'm afraid of how I'll handle labor and delivery. I'm also scared I'm going to screw up this child. It's a huge responsibility, which I've always known, but I'm kinda freaking out over it right now.

Upcoming appointments/events: Next appointment is Thursday.

Milestones: I'd say the nursery being complete is a pretty big one. 

Week 37

How far along? 37 weeks. 

How big is baby? A winter melon or a stalk of Swiss chard, 19-21 inches long and anywhere from 6-9 pounds. 

Total weight gain/loss: At the Dr last week I was down 1lb. 

Maternity clothes? Nothing fits! I hate clothes right-I just feel like a cow, which is frustrating because I don't think my belly looks huge, but the rest of me is ginormous. I did get a jersey midi skirt to get me through these last few weeks and the summer, although I secretly hope It gets too big really quickly this summer. 

Sleep: Decent, except Saturday night I was up from 3AM until 6AM. it really sucked because I was so exhausted. I'm trying to figure out how to sleep more comfortably-my bag is awfully stiff when I wake up. 

Best moment this week: Ooh, how to choose....there were a lot. 
1) Secured daycare for the next year!

2) Breast Pump ordered through insurance and should arrive in th next week or so!

3) Maternity pictures with Beth! We met at a local beach to do these, with plans of eating dinner at the pub before hand. While we were eating, the wind picked up and it looked like a nasty storm was brewing. We were afraid we weren't going to get the pictures done, which would really suck, as we wanted to do them last week and had to reschedule. At any rate, the weather cleared up after dinner (and the beach majorly cleared out), and we got some amazing pictures done. Here are a few, and you can see more on Beth's blog. 

4) Fluff mail! Abby's Lane had 15% off Thirsties products for Mother's Day, so I took advantage. 1white diaper cover to go under outfits you might see a cover through, a size 2 All In One Diaper in Polka Dance (we know I love polka dots!) and a size 2 Duo Diaper in Cool Stripes, a pattern I had been looking for.

5) Cute clearance baby clothes. I can't stand how cute this outfit will come September/early fall. I picked it up while birthday shopping for my niece at Toys R Us. It doesn't hurt that it was originally $37 for the outfit, and I got it for $16, plus earned another $10 gift card. 

6) Performing in Bayside Youth Ballet's 20th Anniversary Gala. I have been so excited about doing this show-I even considered putting off trying for Nick, Jr, for a while so I could be sure I could participate. (Obviously, I worked it out to have my cake and eat it, too.) Everyone was worried I'd pop this kid out on stage, but nick, Jr, and I had several serious discussions that he could do whatever he wanted after 10PM Saturday night, but until then, he had to behave. I like to think he listened, even if he play a bit of a prank (see below). 

Movement: Pretty active, although I had a small scare on Wednesday night. I was stepping down as someone was coming around the corner. In our efforts to miss each other, I ended falling on my tush on the floor. I was pretty sore for the next day or so, and Nick, Jr, was not so active. He did move around Wednesday night, just not as much as he had. By Thursday evening, he was back to his old antics, so I didn't worry too much. 

Food Cravings: Chocolate, but that might not ave anything to do with pregnancy. 

Food Aversions: I won't even think about trying bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: I can feel he's getting lower, and I'm certainly more uncomfortable. Gas has been bad, too, and uncontrollable. I feel like he is is pressing down on things and letting out some toots without my knowledge or permission. My appetitite has changed-I'm not nearly so ravenous any more. My stomach has been a bit queasy-not really sick feeling, just off-and my stools have hotten a lot softer. (Lovely thoughts, right?) At my appointment on Monday, I was thinning and maaaaaaaaaybe one 1cm dilated, so things are progressing, but nowhere near eminent. I *think* I may have had one random contraction on Wednesday in class. 

We did have a bit of excitement yesterday...we were taking advantage of some downtime by...enjoying each other's company upstairs. When I got up, the sheets beneath me were soaked. Way more than sweat or any other liquid that typically comes from that type of activity. As I stood up, I felt this horrible cramping pain, which may have a contraction. I got in the shower and started wondering if that puddle could be my water breaking. I didn't think so, but it was a lot of something. Nick said he felt something "squirt." When I got out, I consulted a friend, who recommended I go ahead and call the on-call doctor. Long story short, we ended up at Labor and Delivery. Everything looked good-no contractions (although I could have had one random one)-and my water did not break. Could have been sweat, discharge, urine, or any combination. I felt silly going in, but with the performance tonight, I do believe it was the right choice. More importantly, I think this gave Nick an, "Oh crap, this is real moment," and heled him see what we need to get done in the next few weeks. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Except for feeling huge, nothing of note. My feet are a bit crampy this morning, and I woke up Friday night with horrible cramps in my thighs. My body temperature has also increased this week-I am always so hot!

Belly Button in or out? In. Maybe it really will stay that way. 

What I miss: Not having people question whether or not I feel like doing something or should be doing something. I appreciate the concern, but it can be frustrating. 

What I am looking forward to: Last day of work is Friday! I can't believe I'm so close! Of course, I have a ridiculous amount of work to do between now and then...lets hope I an make it through the week and get everything finished up. 

Also, our house is a wreck right now. We're (finally) getting the drywall finished, but things are in disarray right now as it all it getting finished. Hopefully, we'll be able to paint next weekend and get it all done. My new goal is to have my house back to normal by June 1. Sounds reasonable, right?

Upcoming appointments/events: Next weekly visit is Wednesday at 3:25PM (weird time, huh?). Hopefully this will be more efficient than the last. 

Milestones: 37 weeks= term. If Nick, Jr, were to come today, he shouldn't need any additional medical help. Of course, I would prefer for him to at least wait until next weekend and let me finish up school, but it's amazing to believe we've made it this far already. 

Week 36

Happy Mother's Day!

It's a little weird-a lot of people at wok wished me a happy Mother's Day...in my mind, though, I'm not really a mother. I'm close, but not quite there yet. Nick did get me an orchid for Mother's Day; of course, he gave it to me while I was having a conversation with a pregnant fend about how I feel awkward celebrating it right now. I felt like an ass, but it's also different from him. It's much more personal, and I really appreciate his thoughtfulness. 

How far along? 36 weeks. 

How big is baby? A honeydew or crenshaw melon, 17-18.5 inches and 4.2-5.8 pounds.

Total weight gain/loss: In three weeks, I gained 6lbs per the dr's scales on Thursday. 

Maternity clothes? Once again, some...I wore a strapless maxi dress (with a cardigan) Friday night that I bought 6 years ago for Rachel's wedding. It looked great. That dress was the best investment-I've Ron it heavier, thinner, and now 8 months pregnant!

Sleep: Some nights are good, some suck. I've been really achy when I wake up, too. 

Best moment this week: Baby shower number3! Tarra and Allison threw an awesome shower at work for me. 

My classes at school also threw some parties this week they called them baby showers, but there weren't really any gifts (I discouraged it). A few kids did bring in some cute things, and I'm so impressed with their thoughtfulness. Two students also brought a gift for a student who is due in August. They crammed a diaper bag full of bottles, pacifiers, and clothes. 

I received several gift cards at the shower, and I've been milking Babies R Us's current promotion: spend $40 in store, get a $10 gift card back. It's valid at Toys R Us, too, so I've gone to both and attempted to spend right at $40, as well as use a 20% off coupon, and then get the gift card. I ended up with $40 in gift cards, then I used my registry completion coupon tonight, and ended up getting another $10 back. Considering I still need to go birthday shopping for my niece, it will come in handy. (And if it doesn't, it's not like I'll never need to go back to BRU/TRU again.) 

Movement: He likes his personal space. The other night Nick put his head on my tummy, and the little booger scooted away. As soon as Nick moved his head, he swam back over. We also found out in rehearsal today baby that, based on his movement, he likes Harry Connick, Jr, Hairspray, Chopin, and Copeland. Pretty diverse (and good taste), if you ask me. 

Food Cravings: None in particular this week. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None yet. Dr said at my appointment Wednesday no dilation yet, but my cervix is starting to thin. Right on schedule-nothing too early or late. I just need to get through the next week and I'll be ready to go whenever. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Gas. It's been horrendous this week. Nesting in the form of organization and shopping, not so much cleaning. I also found out one of my previously assumed symptoms was actually a result of pregnancy brain. My eyesight had not gotten that bad-I was wearing Nick's prescription of contacts for the last 4 months. Oops. 

Belly Button in or out? Still in.

What I miss: Not feeling like there is an alien in my stomach. 

What I am looking forward to: Finishing up home projects. After my brother in law walled in the loft, we've struggled with finding someone to finish the mudding. Tarra and her husband Sam got a layer of mud done today. He needs to sand and do another layer or two of mud, so hopefully it'll be finished by the time I go out on maternity leave. Nick also has a friend that is working on our bath tub. Now to get some yard work done....

Upcoming appointments/events: We're up to weekly appointments-next one is tomorrow. 

Milestones: Hospital bag is packed. Nursery is done. Time to install the car seat. Breast pump paperwork is ready to be submitted for insurance, FMLA paperwork/long term sub set up or school, and registration paper work just needs to mailed to the hospital. 

Just for fun, I took this little quiz. We'll see if Nick, Jr holds true to it or not! Chances look good for right around my due date!

Week 35

How far along? 35 weeks down, 35 days to go!

How big is baby? A Coconut or Honeydew Melon...about 18 inches long and around 5 lbs. 

Total weight gain/loss: Why do I even keep this question on here?

Maternity clothes? Same old same old, some yes, some no. I'm really thankful I saved some of my clothes from losing weight. I am able to wear my 10 year reunion dress for a costume in 2 weeks. 

Sleep: Fairly decent. I typically only wake up once to pee, and it's the best pee ever. I actually feel like my bladder gets completely emptied. 

Best moment this week: Explaining cloth diapers to one of my classes. They asked what brand of diapers I was going to use, so I told them we were using cloth, which many of them found appalling. I have to bring in some samples next week to show them. 

And....I won, I won! I was lucky enough to receive a "Baby Registry" Gift from Maria at Change-Diapers. I enjoy reading her posts, and when I entered our formation in the registry, I figured it was an awesome idea, but I wouldn't be one of the lucky ones. Well, I was! I got an email on Weenesday saying I had been selected, and yesterday a Dry-Line Bamboo fitted, Geffen Wipe, and a birthday cake scented Change-Diapers Pen.(I kinda want to eat it.) Thans, Maria for your generosity!

Movement: There have been a few times I've actually jumped in discomfort this week from his movement. And the hiccups ave significantly increased. 

Food Cravings: I love soup. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: I had someone tell me I looked like I was starting to drop. Nick asked if that meant the baby was coming soon-I told him it meant he was getting ready, but he could be getting ready for the next 6 weeks or so. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Gas-it's been bad this week. Also, I'm not sure how much is my schedule and how much is pregnancy, but I've been exhausted lately. 

Belly Button in or out? In. Thus far, I consider this a small victory. 

What I miss: Margaritas. Cinco de Mayo doesn't taste as good without tequila. 

What I am looking forward to: Maternity Leave. I start May 24. As much as I want baby to come a bit early, I really hope I can take a few days there to just sleep. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Had to move last week's appointment to this week. This week I have a work baby shower, and several of my classes are having parties in class.  I'm kinda hoping to go to the Birth and Beyond Expo next Saturday in VA Beach. 

Milestones: 35/35! Seems so close, and yet so much is going on, I feel like I'll never get there. 

Yeah...I think I have dropped a little this week...

Week 34

How far along? 34 Weeks


How big is baby? A butternut squash or cantaloupe-4.5-5.5 lbs and about 18 inches long.


Total weight gain/loss: You know I didn't weigh in this morning-no sense in pretending I did. 

Maternity clothes? More and more...Target had some of my favorite Tshirts on sale this week, though, so I got 2 in a large for $7/each. They are nice and long and look fantastic on me-better than maternity shirts. And they were cheap!

Sleep: Pretty good. Last night Velma wanted to sleep on me, though. It's difficult enough to get up out of my burrow of pillows, but it was that much more difficult with her on my legs.

Best moment this week: Fluff mail! I ordered a few things from the Thirsties Outlet, then Cotton Babies was having a seconds sale, and I had to place an Amazon order, so a cloth diaper slipped in there. Oops. My Thirsties order came Friday, the Amazon one yesterday, and my Cotton Babies one should be here by Monday. Don't worry, you can look forward to a stash update really soon. :-)


Movement: Very active. The hiccups have increased like woah.


Food Cravings: None.


Food Aversions: Bananas.

Gender: Boy.


Labor Signs: None, but I guess it's becoming more and more important that I pay attention for when/if they should start up.


Pregnancy Symptoms: Huge belly, peeing all the time, a little lower back aches, exhaustion. Of course, I've been going, going, going this week.

Belly Button in or out? In.


What I miss: Energy. Being able to jump up on the stage from the orchestra pit when I need to in order to fix something on stage.


What I am looking forward to:  Nick's 30th Birthday is this week! Not exactly baby related, but I'm excited for it.


Upcoming appointments/events: Hospital Tour is Tuesday night, and we have a Dr's appointment on Thursday AM. I am thinking about cancelling it though, because I don't feel like I can really miss school right now. We have a concert coming up, and I'm starting to panic a little. I don't know when I can reschedule it for. Nick really wants to go with me, but we both have rehearsals out the wazoo right now. I'm almost wondering how horrible it would be if we skipped this particular week...

Milestones: My FMLA paperwork from work came in yesterday. I officially go out on Maternity Leave May 24 at 2:05...woohoo! 20 work days left this year.  Things definitely seem more real now.

No maternity clothes. Up early to take a friend to the train station, then Nick and I have a date for brunch and then to see the touring production of Les Miserables. I'm so excited!

Week 33

How far along? 33 weeks

How big is baby? A Durian-bit over 4 lbs and around 17 inches. 

Total weight gain/loss: I think I was up...6lbs from 2 weeks ago when I was at the dr on Thursday. Once again, more than I would like. 

Maternity clothes? Some, still not full time. 

Sleep: Sucktastic. This has not been a good week. I came down with a stomach bug on Sunday evening-had to take off from work Monday and Tuesday. Surprisingly, I slept well Sunday and Monday nights, just felt like crap anyway. The rest of the week consisted of me waking up between 2 and 3AM, starving but not able to get back to sleep. 

Best moment this week: My baby shower was fantastic on Sunday. This has also been a big week of shopping for Nick, Jr. Thursday afternoon I returned a few things for my shower and used some coupons to pick up some essentials for the hospital bag and breast feeding. Saturday, mom and I took my niece over to The Great Diaper Change at Diaper Junction in Va Beach. We finiished off my newborn stash (well, thought we had-I got two thirsties fab fitteds in Size 2 instead of 1), picked up some still missing essentials from Babies R Us, and essentially completed my Amazon registry. I still have a work shower coming up, but we finished out most of what 1) I doubt people will buy, and 2) what we need if baby came home tomorrow. 

Movement: Monday, when stomach was cramped up and knotted in balls, he thought it was a soccer ball. 

Food Cravings: Soup. 

Food Aversions: Just about everything else-more from being sick. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: My back is killing me today. I'm doing a lot if nesting on paper, but I not have the energy or motivation to actually clean. 

Belly Button in or out? In. Nick was laughing at it the other night, though. I was not impressed. 

What I miss: Being able to bend forward without issue. People to feeling the need to openly comment on my size. 

What I am looking forward to: Getting through the next two and a half weeks. 3 performances at school. *sigh*

Upcoming appointments/events: May 2, routine tummy check. 

Milestones: Nursery is done! Still waiting on my dad to build some bookshelves, but otherwise it is done! I've been working on my hospital bag, and baby's hospital bag, too. 

Week 32

How far along? 32 weeks. 

How big is baby? A squash or large jicama-2.5 to 3.8 pounds and measures about 15.2 to 16.7 inches.

Total weight gain/loss: I'm sorry, in my half awake stupor this morning, I forgot to hop on the scales. 

Maternity clothes? Giving in and wearing them more. 

Sleep: Finicky. Last night was bad, but not for reasons I expected. My niece, who will be 2 in May, and my 3 1/2 year old nephewstayedvith us last night. I was afraid they wouldn't sleep, but they did! I was up at 12:45, hungry and had to pee. I started dozing again around2:45 or so, but then was up again at 6AM. So was David. He insisted on crawling into bed with me. After about 30 minutes of that discomfort, we came downstairs to lot on the couch and watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, hoping he might fall back to sleep. 

Best moment this week: The lovely baby shower hosted for me me last Sunday. It was truly amazing. 

Movement: Yup-Wednesday night my stomach looked like an earthquake. 

Food Cravings: Nothing really this week. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: emotions! I feel like I am aging a breakdown per week. It was Thrsday this week-I was so frustrated with trying to get stuff done at the house and waiting around for other people to come help. (Sounds like a broken record, right?) It didn't help that I was horribly sore through my hips and crotch, especially my crotch. I came home Thursday night from a school event and sat with an ice pack between my legs. I'm not sure how much was pregnancy related and how much was dance related. 

Belly Button in or out? In. 

What I miss: Sleep. 

What I am looking forward to: Second baby shower today! I feel better than I did for the shower last week, I just wish I could get a nap in before I go. I also am taking off from school on Friday, partially for my Dr appointment, but also to take time to get things organized and put away in the nursery. I'm also hoping Mr Plumber and Mr Drywall will be here on Friday to get those jobs finished. Unfortu aptly, it looks unlikely right now. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Friday is a basic tummy check-nothing too exciting. 

Milestones: Nothing too exciting this week. 

Week 31

How far along? 31 weeks

How big is baby? A pineapple-15.2-16.5 inches, 2.5-3.8 pounds

Total weight gain/loss:  At my Dr appointment this week I was only up 1 pound from 2 weeks ago. That made me feel better. 

Maternity clothes? Yes. I ordered a pair of maternity jeans for a whopping $12 from Target last Sunday and they came in Friday. They are more comfortable, but slide down some. Oh well, they're worth what I spent. 

Sleep: sucked at the beginning of the week, but it seems like it's gotten better. Still waking up super early. 

Best moment this week: Getting my house cleaned! I did not get all my Spring Break plans accomplished this week, but that was a huge one. I was planning on taking off on Friday April 19 for a pamper me day, but it looks like that is going to be a day of getting work done on the house. Hopefully the drywall will be mudded and the tub leak in the bathroom will be fixed that day. 

Movement: Very active. My belly bounces around all the time. As we drove home from the in-laws Tuesday, Nick, Jr cuddled right up to my bladder and squeezed the whooooooole ride home. 

Food Cravings: I've been thinking a lot about donuts. Finally got one today-chocolate peanut butter. It was awesome. 

Food Aversions: Just bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: I had some crazy Braxton Hicks contractions Monday when we spent all day walking around Ikea and Potomac Mills. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: My face is breaking out again. Otherwise, my belly is just getting bigger and bigger. 

Belly Button in or out? In. I'm waiting for the time I have to change this answer. 

What I miss: Breathing. In my cleaning fit this week, I stirred up lots of dust and ickiness. Put that with Nick cutting the grass and the pollen in the air-I'm a mess. And so are my clothes. I can't count how many times I've had a sneeze that expelled something causing me to need to change both my shirt and my pants. It's nasty. 

What I am looking forward to: Baby showers! First baby shower is this afternoon, second is next Sunday. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Next appointment is April 19. Just a routine tummy check. This will be the first appointment Nick has not been able to join me for. I was planning on taking off that day from school to take care of some baby stuff, but now I think it will be reserved for people who need to work on the house (i.e. finishing dry wall and fixing a plumbing issue). 

Milestones: Holy crap balls, we're down to single digits. 9 weeks. Wow. 

Week 30

I'm pleased to report that after being in a super sucky mood earlier yesterday morning, I got act together and got some major cleaning accomplished. I have the downstairs bathroom, laundry nook, and air handler closet left to spring clean. Nick got a new shower head for one leaking in the bathroom, so I feel like we've made at least a little progress there. Of course, now I'm sore all over and my hands and feet are super crampy, but my mental state is so much better. 

How far along? 30 weeks-only 10 to go.

How big is baby? A cucumber or a head of cabbage-15-16 inches, and 2.5-3.8 pounds.

Total weight gain/loss: I knew I forgot something this morning.

Maternity clothes? I ripped a pair of non-maternity jeans in the thigh this week. I'm wearing my fattest jeans now, but I refuse to buy after maternity ones. They don't fit right, they're expensive, and, hopefully, the weather will warm up soon so I can switch to linen pants and cotton skirts. 

Sleep: Sucktastic. Woke up with another Charlie horse episode earlier in the week. At least I didn't wake Nick up this time. Last night was up starving at 2:30AM, ate so ething, but it took me till 4 to get to sleep. And now I'm up again at 7AM. 

Best moment this week: Friday, at 10:50 AM, spring break officially began. Woot woot!

Movement: Very active, sometimes startling and on the verge of painful. 

Food Cravings: All of it. 

Food Aversions: Bananas, although they look so good!

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: some Braxton Hicks today while I was working my tush off cleaning. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Very emotional and frustrated this week, not sleeping well, exhaustion. I think, though, the lack of sleep contributed to the other two. 

Belly Button in or out? In. 

What I miss: My normal clothes. I've had another growth spurt and less is fitting. 

What I am looking forward to: 1 week till my first baby shower!

Upcoming appointments/events: We're up to every 2 weeks now-next Appointment is on Thursday!

Milestones: I started giving some baby things their new permanent homes. With all the spring cleaning I've done this weekend, I cleared spots for bottles and the swing and bouncy got moved downstairs, more so that can organize and set-up the nursery the way I need to, not because I think they need to be out right now. 

Week 29

How far along? 29 weeks

How big is baby? An acorn or butternut squash-2.5 lbs and 15-16 inches long. 

Total weight gain/loss: I'm just going to come clean. I don't remember what I weighed last week The only way I can accurately keep track if my weight is to post my actual weight. I hate this, but maybe it'll help keep me honest. At the beginning of last summer, I was at 162. I was not good at maintaining over the summer, and by the time I went for my first OB appointment, I was up to 170. I consider that to be my pre-pregnancy weight. At the dr office, I was up to 214 (clothed in the afternoon). This morning (nude and before eating anything), I was 211.3. Given my weight fluctuations, that seems about right. So my total weight gain is about 40 lbs-as much as I had hoped to gain total, and I have 11 weeks left to go. *sigh* I'm so unhappy with this, but starving all the time. I'm trying to focus on veggies and lean meats, but sometimes I just don't feel satisfied. And when people comment on how good I look, or that I've managed my weight gain so well, they mean it as a compliment, but it stings because I know the truth. 

Maternity clothes? I got some new capris last weekend-I can't wait for it to get warm enough to actually wear them. I'm on the hunt for another cheap maxi skirt and a midi skirt, too. 

Sleep: this week sucked. I did better if I could hold off and go to bed later, but if I get up to go to the the bathroom, the dogs often think they need to go out, too. Friday night I woke up with most horrible Charlie horses in both calves. I don't remember what I said, but I yelled out and could not get them to release. They are still tight and sore. 

Best moment this week: Lots of packages! I got some pre owned diapers in the mail, as well as the shams I ordered for the day bed in the nursery. The nursery artwork I ordered came in digitally on Friday, so once I can get them printed and hung, expect another post on the nursery. 

Movement: Very active. I've definitely felt him roll over, at least from side to side. I'm not certain what position he is in, but occasionally he likes to stick a foot or an arm into my OB cage, providing a little discomfort and a lot of trouble breathing. 

Food Cravings: None so much this week, unless you count wanting to eat bananas.

Food Aversions: See above. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None, but at our appointment this week, we got the paperwork on what to look for and when to call the Dr. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: My eyes were back to being particularly bad this week. My sense of smell is out of control. And the peeing-oh the peeing!

Belly Button in or out? In, but I'm starting to question if its going to stay that way. 

What I miss: Being able to get out of bed normally, instead of rolling. 

What I am looking forward to: Finishing the nursery. Getting more fluff mail this week (Tuesday, hopefully). Baby showers. 

Upcoming appointments/events: I should have my Glucose Tolerance Test results by Monday afternoon. I'm certain I failed, so I am anxious to get that back. 

Milestones: Just taking my GTT. Hitting the place where my OB wanted to make sure I understood about preterm labor and whatnot. Stuff just got real. 

I swear, my boobs are tiny compared to my bump. I need to start belting or something under my bust in order to look mor "normal." And since I refuse to wear maternity clothes, shirt is ON Maternity, sweater NY&Company, and my jeans are also NY&Company, added by Ingrid & Isabel's BellaBand. 

Week 28

How far along? 28 weeks


How big is baby? An eggplant-almost 15 inches and 2 1/4 lbs. 


Total weight gain/loss: +4ish since last appointment. I have eaten horribly recently, too. All I want are sweets. And I'm terrified to take my glucose tolerance test this week. 

Maternity clothes? My jeans feel a little tighter this week. I'm looking forward to te jersey skirts that are coming with spring time. I really don't want to buy any more, except a pair or two of capris. 

Sleep: Pretty good. 

Best moment this week: Cloth diaper sales! I ordered a few things from Kelly's Closet (2 itti bitti d'lish size small pockets, a Romparooz one size pocket that allegedly fits as small as 6 lbs, and one more snappi plus a free Flip cover) on Tuesday. Thursday evening, Kawaii Diapers started a huge sale, resulting in more goodies for me (2 pure and naturals, 2 covers, 2 square tab pockets, 2 good night heavy wetters, and 1 little green baby bamboo). My Kelly's Closet order came in today, but I'll ave o wait till next Monday to get my other order. Looks like I need to focus on rounding out my covers and prefolds. 

Movement: Very active this week. 

Food Cravings: None really. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: My hands and feet have been crampy this week. Not completely sure how much is pregnancy or lifestyle related. 

Belly Button in or out? In, but I see it changing. 

What I miss: Energy. I've been exhausted this week! I think most of it has to do with being gone last weekend and slammed this week. Nick has had the flu, and I'm actually really glad I got my flu shot. I do suspect, however, my exhaustion stems from a slight touch of what he has. 

What I am looking forward to: Getting my Glucose test over this week. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Glucose test and 28 week appointment is March 21. Then we start going every 2 weeks. 

Milestones:  Baby shower invites went out this week! It seems bizarre it's time for that already. 

St Patty's Day green! And no maternity clothes in this picture. 

Week 27

How far along? 27 weeks-according to some sources, entering the realm for 3rd trimester. 

How big is baby? A rutabaga or a head of cauliflower-almost 2 pounds and 14 1/2 inches long. 

Total weight gain/loss: I'll weigh in and update tomorrow morning. I was out of town this morning. 

Maternity clothes? Still refusing to completely succumb. I did buy some more yoga pants at Costco one size up, as well as some tank tops. I also bough a lightweight hoodie at this festival I was at. The XL fits nicely, with some spare room right now. 

Sleep: Pretty awesome right. I pass out at night, and rarely wake up to pee. And, peering right after I wake up is amazing-it one of the few times I really feel like I can empty my bladder. 

Best moment this week: Making it through! I left Thursday for a high school dance festival, and got back late today. I'm thrilled to say I took (survived) 2 classes each dayb(3 on Friday!). For the most part, my soreness was not much worse than any other year. I did pay Saturday for over doing it abut on Friday, but I think it was worth it. 

Aaaaaaaaand...my Target started carrying Chatlie Banana Cloth Diapers. I bought a really cute one home with me today. I actually made Nick pick one out. Not surprisingly, he went with spaceships. 

Movement: Friday night he was extremely actively. I have a conflicted relationship with watching my belly move with him. It's the most bizarre yet coolest thing ever. 

Food Cravings: Nothing really. I ate more Oreos this week than I care to share, though. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None. I was afraid my Braxton Hicks would pick up this weekend, but they haven't at all. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Dry eyes. They haaaaaaaaate me. 

Belly Button in or out? In. 

What I miss: Being able to fully throw myself into a dance class. 

What I am looking forward to: My body (eventually) being my own again. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Glucose test and 28 week appointment is March 21. Then we start going every 2 weeks. 

Milestones: Out of 2nd trimester and into the 3rd. Nick asked me last night if I felt like this pregnancy had flown by, too. I said yes, and it will continue to, until I go out of work (2 weeks prior to my due date). Then it's going to slow down to the point where time feels like it's going backwards. 

This is as good as it gets this week. When I got home today, I soaked in the tub and put on my PJs. Besides, who doesn't love tap dancing Mormons on a pregnant belly?

Week 26

How far along? 26 weeks

How big is baby? A head of lettuce or an English Cucumber. 

Total weight gain/loss: I'm going to weigh in tomorrow. I forgot again this morning. 
EDIT: Monday, March 4...up 1.3 from last week. I was hoping to have maintained a little bit. *sigh*

Maternity clothes? This week I gave in and wore more maternity pants. Most of the pants I ave are hand me downs. Some fit ok, others are just too big in the waist and too short. 

Sleep: This week I've had a few nights if struggling, but I truly think I would have had issues if I weren't pregnant. 

Best moment this week: Spring Cleaned our bedroom, bathroom, and upstairs hallway! This might sound silly,  but I've been kinda freaking out over getting my house cleaned before baby arrives. If I hadn't been so exhausted by the end of it, I probably would have done the other bathroom upstairs. (Considering I had a 3 hour rehearsal that morning, I still think I did pretty good.)

Movement: I think I felt the hiccups this week. It seemed to. E pretty rhythmic, so we're going to assume that is what it was. 

Food Cravings: Fish, particularly a greasy fried fish sandwich or a tuna melt. 

Food Aversions: Same old, same old....bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Braxton Hicks have not really been around this week.

Pregnancy Symptoms: My eyes still suck, both in my vision and in being dry. I was told on 3 or 4 seep rate occasions, though, that I was glowing this week. I think I was happy to no longer feel completely rundown with sinus/allergy crap. 

Belly Button in or out? In. (Please just stay in Belly Button. I have no idea why I care so much about this,)

What I miss: Tequila. Don't judge. I had a Virgin Margarita at a Mexican Restaurant the other night, and it truly sucked. I love a good margarita. 

What I am looking forward to: The calm of knowing I have very thing ready to go for baby. What's that you say? It's a pipe dream? Ok, then I loom forward to the 3-4 weeks I have of solitude and boredom when I stop working 2 weeks before my EDD and the baby comes late. Everyone is so worried he will come early and impact performances, they are jinxing his arrival. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Glucose test and 28 week appointment is March 21. Then we start going every 2 weeks. 

Milestones: Double Digits! We're down to 98 days before EDD. Seems unreal. This year has flown, and I think it's going to just get worse. (And then slow down ridiculously.)

Week 25

How far along? 25 weeks...damn, they suddenly seem to be flying!

How big is baby? A cauliflower, eggplant,  or rutabaga, about 14 inches long and 1 1/2 lbs. 

Total weight gain/loss: +1.3 since last Monday morning, -3.7 since the Dr office Monday afternoon. (Of ourselves, I weigh naked at home.) I am going to do a better job of weighing myself again to keep accountable and not go crazy gaining a bnh more weight. 

Maternity clothes? Still not caving in completely. My wardrobe is a definite mash up of maternity and non-maternity items. I did purchase 4 tank tops (which will actually still be useable after this pregnancy-I love how long they are!), a 3/4 jersey shirt, ashore sleeve blouse, and 2 short sleeve tshirts yesterday for a whopping $50. I went through my closet last night and moved things I can't wear to the bottom row of hangers and things I can to the top. I tried on some spring dresses, and was pleasantly pleased with what I have. I think if I could find a pair or two of capris (maybe khaki and black), I'll be good o go for the rest of this pregnancy. (I had hoped to wear my normal ones, but alas, but butt and thighs say no. Another reason to get on the scale every week.)

Speaking of shopping...I got an awesome deal today. My sister and I were perusing Bed, Bath, and Beyond. I always check out the "AsIs" merchandise. I could not believe I found the universal car seat adapter or our Baby Jogger City Mini. It appeared it was purchased online at Buy Buy Baby,but since there is no local store, returned o Bed, Bath, and Beyond. Their loss, my gain as I paid $12 for it, compared the original price of $59! I felt like a rock star!

Sleep: I am having a lot of trouble ething a completely empty bladder before I go to bed (or as close to empty as possible). Baby boy is particularly active at that home, and my bladder is his toy of preference. 

Best moment this week: Watching What To Expect When You're Expecting, and having a character use one of my excuses ("I didn't fart-it was the baby."). There was a sense of validation. 

Movement: Like crazy, especially at night. I had my first painful blow, directly to the bladder this week. It made me sit up straight. 

Food Cravings: Alas, none this week. 

Food Aversions: People were eating bananas at lunch. The smell made me want to ralph. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Still having Braxton hicks....maybe 1or 2 every third or fourth day. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: None, really. I've been feeling pretty good. 

Belly Button in or out? In.

What I miss: I literally told the hubster that I missed being able to sit up normally this week. 

What I am looking forward to: Spring craft shows and looking at baby things!

Upcoming appointments/events: Glucose test and 28 week appointment is March 21. Then we start going every 2 weeks. 

Milestones: The hubs felt more movement this week! While he's felt it before, this was the most consistent and really strong. I think he got a kick out of it. (Pun fully intended.)

Oh my boobs look tiny compared to my very round belly.