Nicole Blogs... (about baby, and home, and work!).

I've Moved

2011-07-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

I swore I had updated this but Blogger must have eaten my post, which is a big part of the reason I moved to Word Press! By all means come on over and check us out. I've missed all my blog buddies!

http://www.anewnicole.wordpress.com

Christmas Card Time Has Arrived

2010-12-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind the ball this year, but it's time to think about Christmas cards already!

I normally send out generic cards that I pick up at the store, but this year we are wanting to do photo cards to show family and friends what Aidan looks like now that he's one year old!

We have used Shutterfly multiple times in the past. We've ordered calendars, we ordered our birth announcements through them, and of course we've ordered prints as well. I've never had anything bad to say about Shutterfly, so of course when I saw their Christmas Photo Cards it didn't take much to twist my arm into wanting to order from them.

I've been looking around for a while now and I can't figure out which type I should get!

(Source)
Option 1: This would of course have a picture of Aidan front and center!

(Source)

Option 2: This could be either a family shot, or a single shot. I was thinking more family style, as shown above.

Both are 5x7 cardstock, and I just know they will be wonderful quality if my past experiences with Shutterfly have anything to say about it! I do believe I prefer the folded card, just so I can personalize each card without having to include a seperate note for each, but I'm leaving it up to you guys! Any preferences about which one I should get? Any ideas on what type of photo I should use in my cards?

Aidan is One!

2010-12-03T07:07:00.000-08:00

Got a cool new Cozy Coupe!

Dressed up in Toys R Us

He was THRILLED when we told him it was his birthday.

Playing with a new toy his grandma got him.

Eating some squash!

Always a ham for the camera

Opening gifts at his party

Even a busy toddler stops to smell the roses sometimes :)

Hamming it up. He LOVES everyone, would go to a stranger on the street if they tried to pick him up. He's not shy at all.

A nice shot of his semi busted lip. He misjudged the distance between to places and face planted.

New Pictures

2010-10-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Aidan's 10.5 months now, and oh boy is he a handful! He's always into everything, but it's so cute it's easy to not get frustrated. He's truly inquisitive about the world around him, and it's awesome to see him learn how things work. His big brown eyes just light up when he discovers something new!

He had his first real playdate with a friend close to his age. They played nice the whole time!

He loves it when his daddy lays on the floor with him to play before bedtime.

He's teething so he loves to chew on everything, including bottles of Gripe Water.

You can see 2 teeth here, but he has 4 more hiding up top!

He loves his puffs, and they stick to him if he isn't wearing a shirt ;)

10 Month Letter

2010-10-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Aidan,

I have no idea where to start! You're 10 months old now. I swear I feel simultaniously like I've known you all my life and that you just got here. Such conflicting emotions but I guess every mom feels that. You do new things every single day, so I'll make a laundry list of them in the interest of quickness:

You walk, kind of. You hold 1 handed onto anything and everything and haul butt across the room. Hands, walls, couches, etc.
You say mama, dada, baba, buhbye, and hey
You eat everything. Pizza, pasta, etc etc etc. We feed you veggies and all sorts of healthy items but in reality you want whatever we are eating, and we give you bits of it not only to keep you from screaming but to expose you to plenty of foods!
You FINALLY mastered thumb-pointer finger grip. You still prefer to SHOVEL food into your mouth but you're just an enthusiastic eater and I love that about you.
Favorite foods are still anything apple, pastas, breads, any fruits, carrots, broccoli, okay... everything! LOL
You are in size 4 diapers, 12 or 18 month clothing.
Your favorite toys right now are your Fisher Price music learning table, Fisher Price Roll Along Bongo Drums, and any and everything you can fit into your mouth
You have 6 teeth. 4 up top, 2 on bottom and you are most definitely working on some more.

And really, I couldn't love you any more than I do. You're simply the most awesome baby ever. Your great great gram passed away this week, and you were an angel (maybe her angel!) every time I took you to see her. You were quiet and respectful and you smiled at me while I cried for her. At the funeral today you kept yourself quiet and when I showed her to you in her casket you reached out and tried to eat the roses she was clutching. You fell asleep in your stroller and while you were awake you literally stole the show. Everyone wanted to love on the "most adorable baby ever".

You have the most amazing personality ever, and everyone can see it. Thank you for giving me the honor of being your mother.

I love you,

Mama

9 Month Letter

2010-09-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

2 weeks late, as usual. Mommy is just way too busy sometimes!

My dear Aidan,

You're now 9 months old. You are 21 lbs. 30 inches long. When we took you to your 9 month well-check you had a double ear infection! I'm so happy we went because you weren't showing any signs at all. No fever or fussiness or tugging at your ears. I guess you're too tough for an ear infection to get you down!

You are steadily growing. Size 4 diapers, 12-18 month clothing.

You're favorite activity right now is cruising the furniture, I swear one day you're just going to let go and toddle across the room! You've also discovered that you can push your bumbo chair in front of the couch and then CLIMB on top of it to climb up on the couch. Unfortunately you still try to climb off of the couch face first.. so we are always on our toes!

You're favorite foods are.. well, anything! Puffs, yogurt melts, cheerios, all stage 3 baby foods, grapes, strawberries, melon, crackers, wafers, bread.. you eat it all plus more. You're still averaging 30oz of formula a day, plus 3 solid meals plus snacks.

You're favorite toy right now varies, but you still love Sophie and the Fisher Price Roll Along Bongo Drum thingies.. you chase those all over the house. You also love to blow raspberries!

You go to bed between 8-9pm, and on weekdays wake up by 7:30am, weekends you sleep in a bit and don't get up until after 9am (yay!). You still take 3 naps a day usually, sometimes only 2.

You're going to be a boy, in all meanings of the word. You love dirt, leaves, trees, grass. Your favorite things to do outside is to play in your baby pool, go for a walk in the stroller, and crawl around playing with dirt. I must admit I LOVE this about you. I'm not a girly girl and I couldn't imagine having to play pretty princess. I'd rather hang out outside anyday.

You have your first girlfriend.. not really, but it's cute. Little Maxine is a younger woman by about 6 months, but she sure has eyes for you, little man.

All in all you're steadily making my heart grow more and more every day. You're my favorite man, and I wouldn't change a thing about you.

8 Month Letter

2010-08-11T05:06:00.001-07:00

Dear Aidan,

Oh geez, boy. You have mommy busy! Even now I'm writing your letter 2 weeks late. Soon I'll be composing your 9 month letter!

You are still the light of my life. I can't think of any saying to describe it, other than that. You absolutely radiate love every single time I come home from work, and every time you see your father. You've gained a long laundry list of things you do, and do well.

crawling, real, fast, full on crawling
pulling up to stand on anything you can get your hands on
eating more and more table food. you are a ninja and grab things off of our plates without us noticing until we see you chewing!
saying Mama now, but only occasionally and not really directed at me
you point at what you want
you reach out to people for a hug
eating between 32-40oz a day plus 3 meals of solids (which I'm about to up the solids some, you've been out-eating my servings for a while but I just now noticed)
you're starting to "dance" when you hear music you like, you semi-jump and wiggle your whole body

As you can see you're growing in leaps and bounds. You're everything I ever dreamed I would have in a son. Keep on being amazing, it helps mommy through rough days.

Love Always,

Your Momma

My Apologies

2010-07-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry for not blogging a lot lately. I'm really trying to work on it. Things just got a bit overwhelming there for a while. We were all sick, work got busy which took it's toll on my moods, and Aidan is teething and starting seperation anxiety (even with me sitting right there, he wants constant attention it seems like!). Time on the computer at home has been limited to say the least.

Oh well, things have smoothed out some so I'm back in the game.

Updates on Aidan:

7.5 months.
2 bottom teeth, 2 top teeth pending (they are visible through the gums but not yet broken through)
army crawls like a pro
gets on hands and knees and hangs out, rocks back and forth a lot
loves to stand now. on the couch holding onto the back, on the floor holding onto the cushion, on our laps holding onto our shoulders, etc
loves to jump on people, not so much in his jumperoo. he will happily sit on our laps and kick his legs for an hour, easy, making himself bounce up and down
still eats like a champ. 40oz of formula a day plus 2-3 solids a day
sleep is still good.. usually 12 hours a night.
bedtimes are getting rough though with teething + seperation anxiety. he has a big issue when i lay him down and then leave the room! we're working on it though.
he gives big huge belly laughs now when he gets excited. he also FINALLY is starting to take interest in holding his own bottle. I still feed him but afterwards I let him play with it and he can now hold it up on his own and suck.

Adventures In Teething

2010-07-09T05:16:00.000-07:00

Oh good lord Aidan is teething his top 2 teeth, at the same time. Last night in our house around 6:30pm the world ended.

He was rubbing his eyes, obviously tired. I fed him his bottle at 6:30 to prepare to bedtime at 7. Screaming insued so I laid him down closer to 6:30 than 7. Hysterical screaming. Not good. I'm game with letting him fuss lightly for 5-10 minutes because it will always fall asleep, but this.. this was full on "oh my god I'm dying" screaming. I got him right back up. Bounce, rock, play.. screaming through the whole thing. He looks like he has two peas shoved in his upper gums, they are super painfully swollen.

He wouldn't take a teether, and wouldn't calm down. Motrin, here we come! Gave him a dose and held/bounced/walked around for 30 minutes to let it take effect. Tried to lay him down again. Hysterical screaming.

Got him back up, gave him 2 teething tablets. He calmed down for about, oh, 30 seconds. Hysterical screaming in my arms. Took him outside to walk around, he was quiet outside but still groaning and rubbing his eyes. After about 20 minutes tried to lay him down again. Hysterical screaming. (Are you seeing where this is going yet?)

Got him up again. Rubbed some baby orajel on his top gums. He proceeded to make all sorts of funny faces, and even cracked a smile at one point. But 10 minutes later, hysterical screaming. At this point I will not lie. I was so distraught I had tears in my eyes. My child NEVER behaves this way. I could see in his face how miserable he was and all I wanted was to make him feel better but nothing was working! Poor little butt was clinging to me so tightly I could have let go and he would still be hanging there.

I ended up bounce/swaying in a circle (directly in a circle, like a carosel) for 20 minutes while he nodded off slowly. At this point it was 9. I was shot. He was shot. The cats were so far in hiding I wouldn't be surprised if they were in another country. Mike was sitting on the couch cheering me on giving me updates on if his eyes were closed everytime I turned to where he could see him. After 20 minutes he was asleep... My arms were numb and my back ached. But by God the child was ASLEEP! I laid him down, and he slept through the night. Now I'm praying that those two teeth come through today.

Now some pictures, he's 7.5 months now. Sitting on his own (but he prefers not to). Up on his knees rocking all the time. Army crawling like a pro. LOVES to stand, he is even trying to let go of the couch/chair/hands/etc to try it on his own.. and can do it for a few seconds before falling into a happy, giggly pile. Usually a very happy, smiley baby!

Thankful On Thursday

2010-06-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

Today I'm thankful for many things.

1) Aidan army crawling all around. It makes things so much more fun to see him more mobile and getting into things!

2) My best friend having a healthy, perfect little baby. Maxine Ember was born 6/16 at 5:24pm 7lb 9oz and 19 3/4" long.

3)Aidan napping longer and more regularly now that he's scooting all around. All the activty wears him out and the extra napping helps keep him happy.

4) Mike, so working hard and helping to provide our family with what we need.

Photo Update

2010-06-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

6 Month Letter

2010-06-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Aidan,

You're now 6 months 2 weeks, technically. But mommy has been too busy being sick and loving on you to write this until now! This past month has been great for the most part.

You had your first illness. You contracted a virus somehow and had diarrhea for over a week. It was horrible! You even had fevers. After a visit to the pediatrician we amped you up with pedialyte and infant motrin and we made it through. A few days later daddy got sick with fevers and a sore throat. He was ill for a week. The mommy got sick with the same thing. The daddy got sick again for 2 weeks. Then mommy for another week. And now daddy has the same thing yet again. THANK GOODNESS you managed to avoid our illnesses. We can't complain because the entire time we were/are sick you were such an angel baby. Giving us plenty of hugs and playing independently quietly so we could lounge on the couch in misery.

You are still working on sitting up. You can do it, but most of the time you choose not to. Youare definitely army scrawling now. We have a 4'x6' rug and you scoot all over it and even off of it. Your new favorite thing is to scoot your toys to the edge of the rug by the couch and shove them under it. Then try to crawl under the couch to get them. It's quite adorable but mommy is getting rug burn from trying to reach under the couch all the time to retrieve your toys!

You eat solids foods now 3 times a day. And you are even expirimenting with stage 3 foods. You're loving the added textures and flavors! You're still in size 3 diapers, but you now we 9 months clothes and 12 month clothes!!

Our love for you has grown so much lately. You laugh at everything and get the biggest smile when you first see us in the mornings. I never knew how much it was possible to love a small child who can't even walk, feed themselves, dress themselves, talk, etc. You have SUCH an amazing personality. You never meet a stranger. On my darkest days a simple smile and you huggin me tight as I hold you makes it all better. You are the definition of love and I can't believe we made you. Keep on growing, scooter-butt, and remember mommy and daddy will always love you more than you know.

Love Always,
Mommy

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T05:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day Everyone!

6 Months

2010-06-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

First off, sorry for my absence. My great grandmother has cancer, and my grandfather had surgery, and I've just been flat out busy!

Aidan is SIX MONTHS OLD NOW! 18lb5oz, 27 3/4 inches long! :)

I am at work so I can't say much, but I will post an update with substance tonight!

Q&A Answer # 2, 3, &4

2010-05-16T19:45:00.000-07:00

What has been your most memorable mom experience so far?? :
This is a hard question. It's SO MEMORABLE when he first smiled, rolled over, laughed, got a tooth, ate solid food, etc. I guess the best would be the first ime he said mama. I know he doesn't associate "mama" with me, but it still broke my heart and made my heart whole all at the same time.

Have you gone back on anything you said you'd never do as a mom? Like, "I'll never let him cry it out for even 5 minutes"???
By all means, YES! I swore I'd never bed share. And we did for 3 months. I swore we'd never let him cry for more than 2-3 minutes, and even though we didn't for the first few months we have since then and he falls to sleep now on his own. And he is happy playing on his own. He's goign through a small bout of seperation anxiety since he's close to 6 months but nothing 2-3 minutes of FUSSING (not crying) can cure. Very rarely does he actually cry for us before we are there. I swore I wouldn't dominate conversation with things about my pregnancy, baby, etc. And I so do. But only with people who ASK for it. It's a hard habit to break! I'm just so proud!

How do you like being a working mother? What is the most amazing change you've noticed in yourself since having Aidan?
I like being a working mother as could be expected. I'm clinically depressed. I cry at work all the time the first time I feel the least bit stressed. I am MEANT to be at home with my baby. But due to finances for the tim being I'm stuck at work. It is HARD and i HATE IT but I do it because I have no choice. As this poiint in our lives the best thing I can do is work so he has a home, and toys, and clothes, and food, etc.

And the most amazing change has been my EMOTIONS. I cry over everything! I ooh and ahh over other babies and pregnancies where as before it was like "oh, okay, cool". It's WEIRD how far of a range my emotions have now.

McFatty Monday, Week 2 + Mother's Day + Lake!

2010-05-10T06:12:00.000-07:00

I'm still at 207. I don't want to talk about it. I didn't exercise once. And I ate my weight in carbs. I'm surprised I didn't gain. So I'd rather stay the same than gain. :)

Mother's Day was nice. Aidan cut his second tooth (oh hey, yeah, he cut his first tooth on May 3rd!!) on Mother's Day. And was fevery and clingy and screamy all day long. But oh mah gosh my baybee has 2 teefies! :D

Saturday we went to Carney Island. Aidan had fun, I guess. He liked staring at the moss hanging from the trees. :) We took a few pictures.

Me and my precious peanut. He SMILED for the picture! Melts my heart.
Angry face. Like "Daddy I dont WANT PICTURES"
ALWAYS ALWAYS EATING THE HAND. But he DID pop a tooth the next day, so I guess it's allowed.

This is Carney Island. AKA Little Lake Weir. Big Lake Weir is right behind where we were standing.

Check out Aidan in his swim trunks! Huge on his but TOTALLY ADORABLE. And apparently tiring, too. This was before we even left the house.

Q&A Answer #1

2010-05-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

So a while back I asked for some of my readers to ask my some questions. I got a few, here's the answer to one of them (I'll get to the others this week, I promise!)

Nicci from Changing The Universe asked this:

OOO!! I have a good one. You went back to work very quickly after having Aidan (wasn't it like 4 weeks or something?) and you are the breadwinner while Mike is a SAHD.

How has that affected you as far as being a mom? Are you still expected to do the things that all working moms are expected to do (working PLUS cooking and cleaning, etc)? What made you decide to go back to work so soon and to have Mike be the one who stayed home?

In other words, can you talk about how the typical gender roles have been reversed in your house :)

Yes, I went back to work 2 weeks post partum. When I found out I was pregnant on March 24th, 2009 I was employed full time, working 55 hours a week. Mike was also employed full time working 40 hours a week. Things were looking good, I thought i would be able to stay home a tleast 6 weeks, despite only getting 2 weeks paid vacation time. My thoughts were shattered a mere 3 days after getting those 2 lines on that pregnancy test.

Mike was laid off. Which was strange seeing as the company had just finished a series of jobs for the county and seemed to be doing fine financially. It was only the owner, office manager (Hi Christine!), Shawn (Mike's brother) and Mike working there at the time. So needless to say I didn't cut down my hours AT ALL despite being pregnant, I had to work as much as possible to help pay the bills since Mike's unemployment obviously didn't 100% make up his lost salary.

I still thought I'd be able to afford to stay home those 6 weeks, but not any more than that. That thought was shattered when I was admitted to the hospital for a week due to gestational diabetes. This didn't kill our savings completely, but I wasn't bringing home any income that week and the biggest condition of me getting out of the hospital was that I would be on partial bedrest. It was either I work a maximum of 4 hours a day and spend the rest of the day in bed, or I remain in the hospital on bedrest until I delivered. Which was over a month away. Obviously I took the choice to be out in the world, even if it meant a drastic cut in pay and hours being worked.

After I had Aidan I was home for those 2 weeks. I had a chance to bond with him a bit, and we worked hard to get his nights and days switched so that when I was back to work I wasn't up all night. I took care of him primarily those first 2 weeks, but if I asked Mike to help he was right there and didn't hesitate. He was up with me at nights, making bottles, and changing diapers right along with me.

Once I was back to work I still got up with Aidan at night. I handled him primarily when I got home from work, and all throughout the night. Mike slept through the nights (except a few trying nights I had him get up to help) so he could be wide awake and in a good mood to stay with Aidan during the days. The system worked. I was able to sleep enough thanks to bedsharing to be functional at work, and I had extra bonding time with Aidan at 3am when I was feeding him ;)

During the first month or so our house was a wreck. Mike was adjusting to life with a baby during the days, and I was working. In the evenings it was all Aidan all the time for me, since I had been gone all day.

After that first month or so we settled into a comfortable routine. By 6 weeks or so Aidan was basically sleeping through the night and with the less frequent feeding I was able to get some housework done in the evenings. And on the weekends while he napped we both tag teamed the house & got it cleaned up.

These days our routine hasn't changed much. He takes long naps on the weekends freeing us up to clean and take our time (within reason). And Mike picks up during the days, making it easier. Mike is also working almost full time now. He works at his old job in the foam shop as a machine operator tuesdays and thursdays, 8+ hours each day. And he works at his old job land surveying monday, wednesday, and friday as needed. Those 3 days aren't full days, sometimes only 2-3 hours, sometimes more. But either way he's working more so it helps with our income as a family. Mike's mother watches Aidan while he's working.

So now our family dynamic is more back to "normal", whatever that means. I still wish I was able to stay at home. I have plenty of days where the mommy guilt kicks in full time because I didn't get a full 6-12 weeks to bond, I am not home with him all day, etc. But because of that he is bonded with his father like CRAZY, and he adores his grandmother, too. He's sharing his love with 2 other worthy people and that makes me happy. Despite all the mommy guilt I feel I know I'd rather feel guilty for working a job I have to work to put food on the table and a roof over our heads than stay at home and not be able to provide him with the things he needs to grow and thrive.

99 Things

2010-05-04T15:33:00.000-07:00

I copied this from some other blogs I follow..I've done everything in bold below. Now you can copy this on to your own blog & bold the things you’ve done! Just a little something fun!

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyworld

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a praying mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightening storm

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Been to Westminster Abbey

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France

20. Slept on an overnight train

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon

28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing

49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person

50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Visited Russia

60. Served at a soup kitchen

61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving

66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp

67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades

75. Been fired from a job

76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been a passenger on a motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book

81. Visited the Vatican

82. Bought a brand new car

83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Kissed a stranger at midnight on New Year’s Eve

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Got a tattoo

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person

96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake

97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

McFatty Monday: Week 1

2010-05-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

So once, far back in time, I joined the McFatty Monday campaign started by Blair @ http://theheirtoblair.com/. Then I quit. Because I am the essence of teh lazy.

Ladies! I'm back on the wagon. I gained up to 207lbs. Which is a lot seeing as I was 185lbs 6 weeks postpartum. WHAT?!! You'd think I was breastfeeding the way I can chow down on some foods. Insanity, let me tell you.

I don't have a plan, per se. Which might be a problem. I'd like to keep it to 1500 calories a day. And at least 100 minutes of exercise per week. Unfortunately it's already desperately hot here in Florida, so outside exercise will be limited. But I do have malls to walk in, and a stationary bike. And 5lb dumbells for weight training. And 30 Day Shred. :)

Starting Weight Prepregnancy: 195
Highest Pregnancy Weight: 230
2 Weeks Postpartum: 190
6 Weeks Postpartum: 185
Current: 207
Height: 5'7"

Adventures In Sitting Up

2010-05-02T11:56:00.001-07:00

Hi Mom! You want me to sit up? Umm.. I want to play with my foot & eat my hand.

I'm pretty sure I told you I didn't want to sit up.

FINE. I sit up, but I refuse to smile about it.

Blank stare.

Oooooh. I can play with my foot AND try to pick the flowers off the couch while I sit up.

5 Month Old Letter

2010-05-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Aidan,

I can't believe I'm sitting here typing up a 5 month letter to you. When you came into our lives I was unable to think of the future. It was simply day to day, sometimes minute to minute. Trying to get by, learning each other and meeting demands. Now it seems all I can think of is the future. You crawling, walking, first words, etc. I still think all the time "is this my baby? I get to keep him forever?" so I guess in a way I still am unable to think of the future. It's amazing how much you've changed, and how much you've grown.

You now command my attention when I get home from work. Since I'm gone all day when I come home you are ALL MOMMY ALL THE TIME and god forbid I set you down to go to the bathroom, you WAIL until I come hold you. Instead of annoying me, it just endears me to you more. You truely need me in the evenings, for snuggles and loves and laughs. And that, my dear boy, makes me so proud to be your mommy.

You're rolling both ways, tripod sitting for maybe 20 seconds at a time, eating solid foods 2 times a day (1/2 a jar at lunch, a full jar at dinner), still eating about 30 oz of formula a day. Still on the Zantac 2 times a day, and the reflux shows no signs of letting up anytime soon, which makes me sad because I just want you to be able to eat your bottles without spitting up profusely afterwards.

My dear boy, you're waking up now so I'm going to go. Just know your mommy loves you more than words and even though I try to write you a letter each month nothing compares to how many kisses and snuggles I give you each day. Love you bunches.

Love always,
Mommy

Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner

2010-04-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

I had to bump up the date of my giveaway date, due to some family things going on. So without further delay, the winner!

Based on 106 entries, the winner chosen by random.org is...

Entry #19, Carla!! I counted each comments entry value (aka a tweet counts as 1 entry) and starting with the first comment went down the list.

Carla, I sent you an email, if you don't respond within 48 hours I will pick another winner.

A Day In The Life..

2010-04-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Our Usual Weekend Time Line:

8:00am - WAKE UP MOMMY I WANT TO PLAY!

8:30am - Bottle, then playtime.

9:00am - Independant play time, on mat, jumperoo, etc.

While he's having fun I'm usually gathering laundry up from around the house, & then I eat breakfast.

10:00am - Morning nap

While he naps I get the 1st load of laundry started, and pick up his play area in the living room. Depending on the length of his nap I'll do the dishes, or some other small task.

11:30am - Wake up! Bottle, then playtime.

12:30pm - Lunch time! Applesauce, green beans, squash, or whatever Mommy gives me.

1:00pm - Bath time!

1:30pm - Independant play time.

During this time I clean up from lunch (wipe down the high chair, etc), have my own lunch, switch clothes to dryer, start 2nd load of laundry. I sweep the house, or some other small, quick task.

2:30pm - Bottle!

3:00pm - Nap

This is his longest nap of the day, pretty much always. This affords me time to start thinking about dinner, fold the 1st load of clothes, put in 2nd load to dry, put away 1st load. Take a shower. Feed the cats. Mix up cereal & formula into the Munchkin containers for Mike's mom during the week so she doesn't have to measure it out. If I'm lucky I get to read some, play the Sims 3, catch up on TV, etc.

5:00pm - Wake up! Playtime!

5:30pm - Bottle

7:30pm - Dinner is served.

8:00pm - Bottle, then bed time.

After he's in bed we eat dinner, fold & put away 2nd load of clothes. Watch TV or watch a movie together. And we're in bed by 10pm. Voila, a day in our lives.

During the week it's vastly different (well, on my end) since I'm at work. His schedule stays pretty much the same, with minor variations.

Photo Update

2010-04-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

Due to time constraints tonight here's an update in photos. He noms on his hands constantly.

He drools 24/7.

He visited with his 90 year old great-great-grandmother.

He smiles like a fiend when we get on the floor with him for tummy play time.

& he loves to play (eat) stuffed animals on his playmat.

I'll update more tomorrow when I have more time ;)

19 Weeks

2010-04-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

In honor of Aidan reaching 19 weeks of age I'm going to do a Thankful on Thursday post, review a couple of items that have entered baby-entertainment rotation in our household, and just update in general. :)

First up, Things I'm Thankful For Today:

1) Mike's mother, for watching Aidan for us 2 days a week while Mike works. Without her we wouldn't be able to afford daycare, what with Mike only working 16 hours a week! We are lucky enough because she only works about 20 hours a week, so she's able to watch Aidan on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It's good for them to bond, and Aidan sure loves his grandma. It breaks my heart that I can't stay home with him, but everyone know how much grandmas love their grandbabies, so I know he's in awesome hands :)

2) Mike, for being the most amazing guy & father, EVER. He will get up at night if I ask (which I usually don't), he plays stay at home daddy 3 days a week, and he isn't scared of a poop or puke covered baby. He will buy me tampons when I'm bleeding, cheesecake when I'm dieting, and then hug me when I cry because I don't want to leave my baby and go back to work. All without a complaint. He cooks dinner for me every night and does more than 50% of the housework on the weekends. He isn't a very verbal man but he knows I work hard to provide for our family so he steps it up and tries to help.

Favorite items of the moment:

1) Baby Einstein Jumperoo (Here): He seems to think this is HIGHLY amusing when I grab his little legs and jump him around. He's starting to get the idea behind it, but still thinks it's funnier when I make him jump ;)

2) Sophie (Here): Pretty obvious, he chews, slobbers, & noms on her quite a bit.

3) Link A Dos (Here): Didn't expect these to be such a huge hit, but he LOVES him. Always has a link of 2-3 in at least 1 hand all day long. Loves to chew them, suck on them, stare at them, swat at them, etc.

4) Fisher Price Rainforest Gym (Here): I thought kids kinda grew out of this thing early, but it seems like the older he gets the more he enjoy it, especially now that we linked up some Link A Dos with some carseat toys, etc.

Aidan is doing well. He's rolling over both ways now. Eating 5+oz every 3 hours or so. His reflux is still there, we tried to taper off his meds and it was puke city. :( So we definitely upped then again, he's obviously not ready yet. He almost always sleeps from 8:30pm-8:30am-ish, with a few variances. He's SUCH a happy baby, loves to laugh and giggle. We finally got some real, true belly laughs the other night. I was crying I was laughing so hard. Every day just keeps getting better!

Whoring Myself

2010-04-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

If you have 2 seconds could you please vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs? They just had a reset and I'm in the 700s!! :(

Thanks!

Edit: I went from 768 yesterday to 65 today! Keep voting ladies, for those trying to win the Sophie it's also an entry in that contest! :)

Weeks 17 & 18

2010-04-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how time flies!!

Aidan went through a rough patch for about a week, refusing to nap, crying almost all day, nothing was working! I'm not sure what it was but he's back to normal now. He has now decided he will not sleep anywhere other than our arms or in his crib, and he prefers his crib believe it or not! I have such a big boy, he totally knows his crib is for sleepy time.

He's bumped his bedtime up to closer to 8 now, and he seems to be fine with it. He sleeps from 8 until around 8am usually, with no (or maybe just 1) wake up to eat. I'm loving the solid sleep! He fell off track for a few days and it made me appreciate sleep so much more.

He's currently in his swing pooping, or at least farting. HUGE MANLY farts. Love that boy!

We've been slack on taking pictures lately. We are going to a coworkers daughers birthday party this afternoon so I'm going to take some pictures while we're there.

I've been on a mission to get Aidan out of the house more. During the week when I'm at work he's inside all day because Mike's truck isn't running. So last night I took Aidan on a walk to go see his great grandparents. They are about a quarter mile or so from our house, one way. He LOVED it! We even got to see a horse!

And today our neighbors are having a yard sale so I walked Aidan over and we hung out chitchatting. I bought some childrens books and a couple murder mysteries for me :) Being outside is really good for him. I'm going this afternoon after the birthday party (which is outdoors, bonus!) to get him an outdoor swing we can hang from our magnolia tree out front.

I'll post some pictures later, I'm pretty sure he just pooped. :P

Do Me A Favor..

2010-03-31T19:32:00.000-07:00

ASK ME ANYTHING!

That's right, anything! Only things that are off limits are social security number, address, etc. If you want my cell # to text me because I'm so awesome I will give it to you! LOL. If you have wants or suggestions about the blog, tell me! My favorite question might just get something special. Oh, and if you ask me a question you automatically get 1 extra entry towards my Sophie Giveaway! :)

I'll answer all my questions on 04/26/2010, same day as the Sophie giveaway, so I can count questions into the giveaway. :)

Sophie Giveaway!

2010-03-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

I'm giving away a Sophie!

For those who are unfamiliar with Sophie she is a rubber giraffe made in France. She's perfectly sized for a teething baby, with a long skinny neck to hold onto and 4 legs with room to grab them & give them a good nom. I've heard nothing but good things about this thing, so I finally caved and bought one for Aidan. HE LOVES IT! The squeaker is his favorite part, he thinks it's hilarious. Yeah, it sounds a little like a dog toy but anything that keeps my kid happy when he's fussy & teething is well worth it to me, and I'm sure will be to the winner, too.

How To Enter:

-Follow my blog & comment that you do (2 entries)

-Follow me on Twitter & comment that you do: @nicolby (1 entry)

-Grab my Blog Badge for your blog & comment with a link (2 entries)

-Blog about this giveaway & comment with a link (3 entries)

-You can tweet once a day about my giveaway linking my blog. (1 entry per day, comment after each tweet)

-Vote for me on Top Mommy Blogs by clicking here. You can vote once per day, comment afterwards. (1 entry per vote)

-Vote for me on Top Baby Blogs by clicking here. You can vote once per day, comment afterwards. (1 entry per vote)

Tweets, and votes will be verified.

Winner will be chosen on April 26th, Aidan's 5 month birthday, using random.org! Leave your email in at least one of your comments (or your website) so I can get in touch with you if you win :)

Weekend Recap

2010-03-29T08:06:00.000-07:00

Aidan wearing a 9 month outfit. WHERE HAS MY BABEH GONE?! You can also see that his eczema flare up is gone. So happy his cheeks aren't red and raw looking anymore.

He is in a sitting up mood lately. He refuses to lay flat. He's either wanting to sit up (with support of course) or he's on his belly holding that head up high.

And the hand noms. It continues. Constantly. We both change clothes multiple times a day thanks to the massive amount of drool this kid produces. It was a good weekend, filled with love, hugs, drool, and adorable baby laughs.

4 Months

2010-03-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Aidan,

I'm not even sure what to say. I say my feelings to you everyday. It's still important for me to get them out in print because you won't remember our chats.

You are the most amazing thing to ever happen to me. Your smiles melt my heart. Your giggles make me laugh until I cry. Your little feet get kissed 100 times a day, because by God I MADE THOSE. I still am in shock that your daddy and I made you. How did someone SO PERFECT come from two such flawed people? Even in the middle of a screaming fit or my 5th time getting up with you at night (rarely) I still find something in you to appreciate and love.

Right before my eyes you're growing. You've found your feet and love to chew on your hands. You reach out now and play with toys. I feel like just yesterday I was in labor pushing you out of me. Now you're such an independant soul, and it's a little rough on Mommy sometimes. You don't want to be rocked to sleep anymore. You want to be laid in your crib while you're awake, with the Fisher Price Seahorse playing and you put yourself to sleep. 9 time out of 10 I stand and watch you fall asleep. It makes me feel like maybe, somewhere inside you, you still need me.

Everyday at work is a struggle. All I do is think about you and count the minutes until I can snuggle with you again.

You're growing right in front of me, and all I can do it watch, squeal with excitement at your new milestones, and pray you always love your mommy as much as she loves you.

Always Yours,
Mommy

Surprise Pedi Visit

2010-03-25T10:53:00.001-07:00

So we gave Aidan some applesauce last night. He LOVED IT. Literally would have devoured the whole jar if I would have kept feeding him.

But. We woke up to this:

My first thought was food allergy (but to apples?!) so we took him in to the pedi. he claimed it's eczema and prescribed hydrocortizone cream. I didn't know eczema could just pop up out of nowhere, but okay! I'm glad it isn't an allergy to apples because he seriously loved the applesauce! :)

Oh, and he's definitely 16lb4oz! He goes for him 4 month shots on monday. :(

Updates

2010-03-23T09:42:00.001-07:00

As you can see I'm working on overhauling le blog. I was tired of the default layout. Seemed cluttered. Now with 3 columns it's a little better, easier to navigate.

Aidan is still a lovey. Getting bigger every day. He flat out laughs sometimes now, whenever something catches his attention. It's adorable. Here he is going out with daddy..:

16 Weeks & Counting

2010-03-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

Ya'll, Aidan is getting SO BIG! He's is such a loverboy, always smiling and batting his eyelashes. He has a definite love affair going on with his hands, and he just recently found his feet. Every day he gets closer to figuring out how to put his feet in his mouth. He has a Sophie now, and when he's in the mood he noms on her for a while. He has been sleeping exclusively in his crib now for over a week, and we've only had one rough night trying to put him down. He transitioned like a champ.

His 4 month appt in on the 29th, and I can't wait to see how he's grown. He's still in size 2 diapers during the day, but we've had to bump it up to size 3s at night. Soon he'll be in size 3s all the time. He's completely out of 0-3 sizes, and fits well in 3-6 and 6 month. Even some 6-9, but those are a little baggy still.

I'm sorry I've been neglecting my blog. I have been so busy with work and being a mom that it's crazy! We also celebrated our 5 year anniversary yesterday. I never thought we'd have a baby, but we spent the day at home as a family relaxing all day. Honestly it was the best anniversary we've had yet, all because of our little man. Here are some pictures since the last time I updated:

Maya Ring Sling Giveaway

2010-03-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

So Tiffany over at Cupcake Dream/ is having a Maya Ring Sling Giveaway! There are multiple chances to get your name in the drawing, so go over and enter! :)

Weeks 13, 14, and going on 15

2010-03-09T10:26:00.000-08:00

Aidan is getting so big! Sorry I haven't updated in forever. I've been a little overwhelmed with life lately. We started solid foods with Aidan about 2 days ago. His pedi reccomended it since he isn't gaining weight very rapidly because of his reflux. The solid food in his tummy really helps him keep his formula down. So far he loves it! We snapped some pics of his first eating experience. He looks confused :P

He still sleeps face down, with his butt up in the air. I finally got a picture of that, too.

He naps in his boppy occasionally, but really all we use it for anymore if for him to sit up in (he sits supported now for long periods!) but this is one time he was sitting up, fell over, and conked out. Look at those cheeks!! :)

Wish I was something astounding to say, but I just don't. I'm exhausted and worn down. But I love my son more than anything, and I'm so happy to have him in my life!

Busy busy..

2010-02-23T15:21:00.000-08:00

Being a full time worker, mommy, & fiance is hard work. I'm managing to do it all but every day I complain that there aren't enough hours in a day. I'm still working out, not every day like The 30 Day Shred was intended, but at least 3 times a week. This week I'm shooting for 4 times, but if I skip that 4th time to love on Aidan I know it was skipped with good intentions. :)

He's doing well, getting bigger and smiling & giggling more every day. He's such a little love bug. It's hard to be stressed out when I have such a perfect little boy smiling at me everyday.

How are all my other mom-blogger friends doing? I haven't been commenting as much as usual, busy busy! I'm trying to catch back up though. Hope everyone is well!

12 Weeks

2010-02-18T14:23:00.001-08:00

He's sleeping in my arms so typing is difficult. But the love is easy enough to see in the pictures. I can't believe it's been 12 weeks already.. 1 week from tomorrow he's 3 months!

Back On The Wagon

2010-02-15T14:32:00.000-08:00

Restarted the 30 Day Shred today. The weekend went to hell and I didn't do it. The perfectionist in me is making me start over at day 1. It went well. It's easier now that I know what to expect, and plus I'm sure every time I do it my fitness level gets a little bit better. I feel good. :)

Weight wise the past 3 weeks have sucked. I'm back to 195lbs. It's my prepregnancy weight, so technically I'm not doing poorly, but I was like 8 pounds less a couple weeks ago. Birthdays and poor eating habits have EVERYTHING do to with my weight gain. Luckily I'm back in full swing. Today was a very healthy eating day, and I worked out. Next week I'll have some weight loss to report, I'm sure.

Aidan is doing well. I think he might be in a growth spurt. He's been eating more ounces in less feedings, and sleeping a ton more than usual.

Mike & I are good. Our 5 year anniversary is next month so I want to try to find something nice for us to do that's cheap (even if it's just renting a movie and getting take out, I'm not picky!)

Hope everyone else is doing well on the McFatty Monday campaign!

11 Weeks

2010-02-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Aidan is 11 weeks already?! (Actually 11.5 as of my writing this). Time is surely flying by and he gets cuter by the day. His personality shines through so much now. He's such a joy. Smiling, eating his puppy dog (which is featured in pictures this week), snuggling his puppy, etc.

He has a new thing now where when he is tired and wants to go to sleep he cries, flips himself over onto his tummy, and promptly passes out. It's been about 4 days now and every single time he wants to sleep he does this. Even at night. I make sure nothing is in his mouth/nose area to comprimise his breathing, and I let him go. He seems to enjoy it, and he'll wake up and roll himself back over when he's done sleeping. He is such a little weirdo. :)

He's still in some 0-3 month clothing, but he's fitting into more and more 3-6 month sleepers and things. He's now in size 2 diapers at night because he pee's through size 1s in the middle of the night (like last night, poor boy was soaked!) He'll be in size 2 diapers full time as soon as I get rid of the huge 66 pack of size 1s we just opened. For now he's fine during the day in 1s, but probably in about a week he'll be in size 2s full time. :)

His sleep is wonderful. He goes down between 9 & 10 and sleeps until around 4am, then eats about 2 ounces (aka just a snack, we're working on breaking it but as long as he needs it I'll get up and give it to him) then is out again until 7, 8, or 9am just depending. It's pretty nice.

We got him a Bumbo chair. He likes it for short periods of time. He loves to look around so he's pretty interested in sitting up. The only time he slouches over in it is if his puppy is nearby, then he'll try to reach for it and fall over (which is shown in one of the pictures lol). We also got him a pair of baby sunglasses. We haven't taken him out in the sun since we got them, but he loves to wear them. Huge goofy grins everytime we put them on him.

He'll be 3 months on the 26th. I really can't believe it.

Badges + 30DS

2010-02-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

I grabbed badges from some of my favorite blogs. I haven't had a chance to surf everyone's blog though. If you have a badge/button on your blog and you'd like to have me link it, let me know! Time constraints make it hard to always do the things I want, like surf every single blog I follow and grab every badge. LOL.

I'm happy to announce that I'm a little sore today. Not as bad as I was expecting, but I can always push myself a little harder tonight and I'm sure I'll be miserable tomorrow. Not that I want to be miserable, but I want to feel like I'm accomplishing something! The level of soreness I have today is good, I can definitely feel muscles I didn't even know I had. :)

Today has gone well eating wise, too. I'm trying to stick to 1300 calories or less each day. So far I'm sitting at 720. (scrambled egg, sausage, cheese, and potatos for breakfast. Smart Ones Lemon Herb Chicken Picatta for lunch).

Over all I feel good today. I feel confident and excited to get home and do the Shred and get it over with. I really hope this motivation continues, because even though I'm below my prepregnancy weight my body is TOTALLY flabby and gross. And I was at a higher weight than I prefer when I got pregnant anyways, so weight loss + toning up is the name of the game.

Le sigh. Sometimes it seems so far way, but one day at a time! :)

Edit: 30DS Day 2 complete. I'm sore & sweaty but I feel awesome!

30 Day Shred: Day 1

2010-02-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

So today I bit the bullet and finally did the 30 Day Shred. I've only been saying I'm going to start for the past 4-5 weeks. Oops.

I have been lifting weights though, so it wasn't as difficult as I was expecting. The worst parts for me were the cardio parts, because I haven't been doing much (okay any) cardio since before I found out I was pregnant. Mike was nice enough to take Aidan in the bedroom and entertain him for 30 minutes while I worked out in the living room. I didn't want to have to keep stopping to tend to Aidan, and I certainly didn't want Mike to witness my flab jiggling around during jumping jacks and butt kicks. LOL.

I certainly worked up a sweat but I feel good. I feel like it's reasonable to do this workout everyday, since it's only 30 minutes.

We'll just wait and see how my muscles feel tomorrow, then I might be singing a different tune. But for today, I feel proud and accomplished for finally starting to do something about this chub :)

Lazy Sunday..

2010-02-07T08:50:00.000-08:00

Weeks 9 & 10

2010-02-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

There's my super baby. He loves to throw his arms back and pull up his chest and head as high as possible whenever we put him on our chest. He literally looks like Superbaby. Adorable!

I didn't do an update last week. Life has been insane. It's tax season and we do taxes at work aswell as sell insurance, and sell cars. So needless to say it's been crazy even though I don't personally sell cars or do taxes, we're still insanely busy which effects all of us.

Aidan is doing wonderfully. He's easily over 12 lbs now, and still such a happy baby. He's rolling over both directions multiple times a day. He'll get frustrated and kick his legs until he rolls over. I thought it was a fluke but he does it consistantly every day. It's absolutely adorable to watch his face when he rolls ove,r he looks so surprised because his whole world is moving! LOL.

Sleeping is still going well. Getting up once, maybe twice a night. Hoping he'll drop that maybe sometimes second feeding, but at this point I certainly can't complain. He doesn't wake up crying, just fussing and I feed him and he's right back to sleep. It's pretty ideal.

Things over all are just dandy. I grow more and more in love with my son every day. I never understood the depth of a mothers love until now. It's insanely intense, and anytime I think about it I get all misty eyed. Because I'm a hormonal sap like that. :P

Want To Link Me?

2010-02-02T05:36:00.001-08:00

I added a small badge over there ---> in case anyone feels the need to link me. If you link me let me know and I'll grab yours if I don't already have it. I'm in the midst of adding badges for my favorite bloggers. :)

Caught On Camera

2010-01-28T08:03:00.001-08:00

That's the stuff love is made out of right there.

Quick McFatty Monday Post

2010-01-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

..on wednesday. LOL.

I gained 3 lbs this week. I'm also on my period and bloated as hell so I blame that.

I worked out in some form every single day this week. Even if it was just a quick 10 minute arm work out with free weights, I did something every single day. Which is massive for me.

I didn't eat 100% right, but I didn't do anywhere as poorly as I did a couple weeks ago.

Each week gets better. :)

Shots + PP Period

2010-01-27T11:18:00.000-08:00

I figured I'd do a little update on Aidan's 2 month shots. We went yesterday, the 26th. It wasn't bad. He got 2 single shots, 1 4-in-1 shot, and a sippy thing of the Rotavirus. He cried for maybe 30 seconds during his shots, but as soon as it was over he was fine. He didn't run a fever until about 8 hours after, and it was not really horrible. It was 100.4 under his arm, so I gave him some Infant's Motrin and it went away very quickly. He did sleep basically all day yesterday, too. He wasn't fussy though.. I was worried he might be.

After my "am I pregnant" freak out I still didn't test. I decided to ride it out until Friday when I got paid to buy a test, and Friday right as I was going to leave work I started spotting. So, I didn't buy a test. Over the weekend I didn't spot AT ALL so I was going to buy a test on Monday after work, and low and behold I started actually bleeding on Monday afternoon. Yippee! What is a little less stellar is the cramps. I didn't miss them. I can say though that after contractions my cramps don't seem so bad anymore. Or maybe pregnancy eased off my cramps a bit like some women say. Who knows!

I've already started charting BBT again. I want to make sure I'm ovulating so that when we TTC#2 later this year I'll already know what's going on with my body. I really think I ovulated this cycle even though I wasn't charting. About 2 weeks ago I had HORRIBLE ovary pain, and was absolutely miserable for pretty much a day. When I do ovulate I almost always get ovulation cramps and pain. So here's to hoping that my body picked right up and started ovulating. I guess this cycle will tell me one way or another.

2 Month Letter

2010-01-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

Dear Aidan,

Today I took a couple hours off of work to take you for your 2 month pediatrician appointment. I wanted to be there for you while you got your shots, so I could love you and comfort you. It struck me on my way back to work how LOVED you are. I literally wanted you for ever, and it took us 4 long years for you to be here. It's amazing to me. I stare at you sometimes while you sleep and I wonder why God blessed me with you. It's hard not to feel inadequate when I look at you, you're so perfect! You're by far the best thing I've ever done with my life.

Time is still trucking by, little one. You're 2 whole months old. When I was pregnant 2 months sounded like a long time, but it's gone by in the blink of an eye. You're filling out your car seat, smiling all the time, about to move into size 2 diapers, rolling over from back to front occasionally, and your personality is shining through more and more every day. I don't even have the words to tell you how much you mean to me. Thank you for being my son.

Love,
Mommy

8 Weeks

2010-01-24T07:42:00.000-08:00

Aidan's 8 weeks old! I can't get over it. This week brought a lot of new things. He rolled over from back to front for the first time this week. He coo's a lot now, and is still sleeping very well. We also took him in the shower for the first time. He was a champ, playing in the water and cooing and he didn't even mind water getting on his face. It was very, very cute. Mike took some pictures. Don't mind my obvious nakedness.. you can't see anything though :P

My work (and insurance agency) had the Gainsco Rolex race car up at our office for the day. We had the radio station out, the car, and cooked out hot dogs and ordered pizza. We got to sit in the car and get our pictures taken, etc. It was a lot of fun. Mike brought Aidan up so he could have his first race car experience. Mike's really into cars, so it was a sweet moment for the two of them. Aidan was in a sleepy mood though, so he looks half asleep. LOL
Rebecca from Gainsco brought Aidan a gift, a stuffed dog that plays a lullabye, and a sleeper outfit. Here is Aidan with the dog, we named him Spot (original, no?).
Smiles are still 24/7. We literally have one of the happiest babies I've ever seen. We are still trying to catch a good one with our crappy camera. This is a smirk, at least. lol

Food Updates

2010-01-22T07:25:00.000-08:00

01/21
Breakfast: Strawberry bar
Lunch: 1/2 of the lunch special honey chicken and fried rice
Dinner: Lasagna, 1 breadstick, side salad with ranch

01/22
Breakfast: Bacon, Egg, & Cheese Biscuit (damn you, coworker, with your free breakfast)
Snack: Sunflower seeds
Lunch: Flatbread sammich (steak, mushrooms, & cheddar) with a side salad
Dinner:

Pee On A Stick?

2010-01-21T05:20:00.000-08:00

So, I've been having early pregnancy symptoms. Which are ironically almost identical to PMS symptoms. I am not amused. Let's do the run down, shall we?

Before I Knew I Was Pregnant:
-mildly nauseous at varying points in the day, never actually throwing up
-irritable
-super freaking tired
-period like cramps that started when I was due for my period. Didn't go away until I was 10 weeks.
-sore boobs
-using the bathroom a lot
-mood swings like WHOA, tearing up over everything & it's mother
-bloated as all get out

PMS Symptoms:
-irritable
-crampy
-bloated
-sore boobs
-sometimes mood swings resulting in crying

So as you can see, pretty similar. I'm currently bloated, irritable, mildly nauseous most days, crampy, using the bathroom a lot, crying over everything, & I can barely keep my eyes open.

All of those things could be explained by a possible pregnancy, PMS, OR post partum body trying to regulate itself again. My symptoms have been going consistantly for 2 weeks now. The only time I've ever had PMS symptoms for 2 whole weeks was when I was pregnant, the rest of the time it's a day or three and boom, period.

Bah. I want 2 under 2 but I don't really want to be pregnant again so soon (we were thinking of ditching condoms around August 2010). There are many margaritas to be drunk! We've used condoms everytime, so the odds are pretty good I'm NOT pregnant. Which is very good news for the margaritas of the world. (Can you tell what I missed while I was pregnant?)

So. Pee on a stick, or wait it out to see if Aunt Flow rearsher ugly head? I'm 8 weeks post partum and my OB seems to think I should of bled by now. Especially given the symptoms I've had. I'm not sure if I want to waste money, but I also should probably know so I can avoid those yummy margaritas in the future. Blah.

New

2010-01-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

New blog layout. A friend of mine had the same layout I had before so I opted to find another. Plus I've had the old one for a long time! This one is cute, reminds me of Aidan. He's my little monkey butt. :)

Today's (01/19) meal plan is as follows:
Breakfast: Special K Strawberry bar
Snack: Baked ham sammich with lite mayo
Lunch: McDonald's Grilled chicken Southwest Salad
Dinner: 1/2 Frozen Cheese pizza. Shameful!
Water Intake: ~100oz.

01/20
Breakfast: McD's Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit ugh.
Lunch: 3 flipping hotdogs and 1 slice of cheese pizza!! Oh, and a McD caramel sundae. We had a promotion going on at work so I kind of ate lunch over the course of the whole work day, resulting in a lot of food. Ick!
Dinner: SALAD.
Water Intake: ~120oz

I'm so ashamed of today! I know it's just one day but WOW, shame!

McFatty Monday: Week 3

2010-01-18T05:20:00.000-08:00

Height: 5'7"

Prepregnancy: 195

Highest During Pregnancy: 220

MFM W1: 190
MFM W2: 189

MFM W3: 188

Obviously still losing, not as quickly as I'd like, but that's okay!

I've decided accountability is key. By not writing down what I'm eating it's easier to cheat, etc. So starting this week (today) I'm blogging my meals & working out.

Breakfast: Special K strawberry meal bar thing
Lunch: Lean Cuisine 5 Cheese Rigatoni, single serving broccoli & cheese (frozen prepacked single serving)
Dinner: Homemade cheeseburger (wheat bun, burger, 1 slice cheese, ketchup) with side salad & Reduced calorie 1000 Island Dressing
Water Intake: 100oz

Working out: Lifted weights for 20 minutes (arms), 30 pushups throughout the day (no way can I do 30 at once!!) toting around my 13 pound baby ;)

7 Weeks

2010-01-17T10:58:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Aidan is 7 weeks old! Things are progressing nicely. His sleep has regulated itself again after that last mean old growth spurt messed it up. It's great to get hours of sleep in a row again. Last night I got 6 hours in a row, and then 3 more right after! :)

He's getting so big. Definitely filling out his size 1 diapers nicely. His newborn clothes are all packed up in case we have another boy. His 0-3 month clothes fit him, but even some of those are getting snug! He has a couple 3 month outfits that fit him nicely, too. I can't believe how fast he's growing. Getting bigger and bigger. Today I tried to weigh him by weighing me, and then me holding him, he was right at 13.2 pounds!! I did it more than once and that was the number both times! INSANE!

Here are some pictures from this week:

He's smiling 24/7 now. He is such a happy baby, smiling at me, his daddy, the ceiling fan (his BFF) even the cats!

He loves to sit up, so we try to give him some sit up time each day.

Me and my big boy, he was fascinated by the lights over the mirror. :P

There's his cute chubby face!

6 Week PP Appt at 7 Weeks PP

2010-01-13T11:53:00.001-08:00

So I FINALLY got my 6 wk check up today, at 7 weeks post partum! Either way, I'm all cleared for everything, sex, working out, etc.

I owned up to having sex prior to 6 week, she didn't mind as I'm obviously all healed & we used protection.

I asked about the gestational diabetes for our next baby, she said as soon as I get my positive test I should assume the GD diet IMMEDIATELY. And apparently I should be following a diabetic diet anyway, since I'm considered pre-diabetic now. Le Suck. I will do it though, just because diabetes literally killed my mother (well, uncontrolled diabetes. she loved the sweets & carbs) and obviously I don't want to kill myself.

The topic of birth control came up and I stood my ground and said no to it, like Mike & I have discussed. The last time I took birth control was almost 5 years ago, and it took 4 YEARS off of the pill to get pregnant. 4 YEARS PEOPLE! It obviously screwed with my cycle something serious. My OB understood my concerns, especially since I want to conceive our second child at some point in 2010 she didn't force pills on me. YAY for my doctor! So we're riding the condom train for a couple more months.

I have plans for two under two, which I don't think I've ever talked about here. I want to ditch the condoms around Aidan's 9 month mark (or even as late as his 1st birthday) and see what happens, hopefully leading to another healthy pregnancy since I'm not pumping my body full of hormones in the mean time. I've already started charting my BBT again, to track ovulation whenever that happens. Ovulation can take months to restart after a pregnancy, so we'll see! I want to make sure I'm ovulating or I'll never get pregnant again.

So anyway. Comment away and tell me I'm a big fat dumbass for not getting birth control, or tell me how crazy I am for wanting another so soon, etc. Whatevers. ;)

Thank You

2010-01-13T05:24:00.000-08:00

Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes. I had a fantastic time. The only snag was when my friend Stacey's daughter busted her head open at home, so she had to leave to take her to the ER. She is fine though, they glued her up, no stitches required. :)

I had a couple margaritas, some steak, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, and a side salad.

Not exactly helping the whole McFatty Monday cause, but it was my birthday!!

I was so happy to get home to Aidan. I miss his little wiggly butt whenever I'm away from him. It made me really sad to go to work today. The days pass quickly at work and I feel like he's growing up without me! :( He certainly loves his momma though.. as soon as I started talking when I got home his head whipped around and he reached out to me. He's already a little heart breaker.

Birthday

2010-01-12T09:12:00.001-08:00

Well, it's my 25th birthday today. I was so excited to wake up next to Aidan, and he met me with a 1000 watt smile and then promptly punched me in the nose. Love it! He's the best birthday present I've ever gotten. Even though he is a baby, not a birthday present. Whatever!

Tonight we are dropping Aidan off at my grandparents house for about 2 hours, and then we are going out to eat. Me & Mike, Al & Christine, Shawn, & Ashley. Oh, and Stacey. Outback & Margaritas here we come! :)

McFatty Monday: Week 2

2010-01-11T05:36:00.000-08:00

So this week was a failure. Maybe not a complete failure, but I definitely didn't do as well as I could have. I drank beer, ate pizza, and didn't do cardio once. My 6 week checkup appt was rescheduled to some point this week (depending on when my doctor gets back into town) so I haven't been cleared for cardio yet.

This week I did lift weights. That felt nice, to be doing something healthy. I didn't take any walks because even though I live in Florida IT SNOWED HERE, PEOPLE! Insanity!! My poor self isn't used to cold weather, so I stayed bunked up inside with the heat blasting.

I did well at work, eating salads and other healthier items. My problem lies at home. I live with a pizza, meat, & potatos kind of man. Strictly. I've seen him eat a vegetable maybe 10 times in the 5 years I've known him. No lie. I'm going to try harder this week, and we'll see.

I did lose a pound though, so yay me.

Stats:
Height: 5'7"
Prepregnancy: 195
Highest Pregnancy Weight: 225
McFatty Monday Week 1: 190
McFatty Monday Week 2: 189

Goals for week 2:
-Drink more water. I need to channel my inner pregnant lady and guzzle more water.
-Lift weights at least 3 times this week.
-Start The 30 Day Shred, because even though I haven't been cleared for cardio everything seems fine and I feel fine.
-Continue eating salads and healthy options at work, and try to make dinners healthier at home.

And of course thanks to Blair for starting McFatty Mondays.. it's definitely nice to have a group of us doing it together!

6 Weeks

2010-01-08T05:18:00.000-08:00

Here is my precious angel, 6 weeks old and already practicing his innocent "but I didn't do it!" face. It's insane to me that he is really ours, that we get to keep him forever (or at least until he decides he doesn't want to love us anymore. LOL). He's smiling more and more, and becoming a lot more vocal. grunts, groans, and plenty of eh-eh noises. I'm happy he's learning to communicate a little more. He cries less now, and makes more noises to try to convey what he needs. That's appreciated!

Sleep is still going well, only getting up maximum twice per night. In bed by 10pm, pretty consistantly.

We started adding rice cereal to his formula last week to try to help his reflux which was causing massive amounts of spit up. It's helping a ton. I made a bottle yesterday without the rice because I was tired and forgot, and sure enough,horrible spit up! Ugh. Luckily it works, I know some people it doesn't work for.

Anyway, time is flying and I already miss my little boy. :P

Bare Belly : Full Disclosure

2010-01-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

Didn't have any belly pics for McFatty Monday, so here they are.

Week 5

2010-01-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

This week has been good. I can't believe how time is flying. Maybe one day I'll stop saying that ;) Not too much to report this week. Sleep is still good, waking up a maximum of 2 times from 10pm-7am and always eating and going straight back to sleep. He discovered his tongue this week. Now he's always sticking it out, rolling it around, and making tons of cute faces.

His reflux increased a bit this week, and we started putting rice cereal in his bottles per our pedi's suggestion. It has helped a lot with the spitting up. We put just enough to thicken the formula a bit, and it really helps him keep the formula in his tummy where it belongs. I haven't noticed a decrease in frequency of feedings though, which some people thought I would. Oh well!

We put him on his Fisher Price Rainforest activity mat a lot this week, and he's starting to enjoy it a little more now. Before he would just cry to be picked up. He actually stares at the lights now, and keeps quietly entertained for sometimes up to 15 mins at a time! Great for doing dishes, catching up on laundry, etc.
Here he is staring at "the baby in the mirror" on his playmat. That's his favorite activity, staring at himself!

Here he is on his mat again, this time eyeballing the flippy thing (technical, no?) because I was playing with it.

Here he is in his boppy, relaxing as usual during the day.

The beginnings of a smile, it's so hard to catch his smiles with my crappy old ass camera! It takes like 3 seconds to take a picture after I push the button. I demand a (free) upgrade.

This is his poopy face.. for some reason it cracks me up because his head seems misshappen compared to normal!

Ah, the after poop face. So cute!

McFatty Monday..

2010-01-04T06:56:00.000-08:00

So, I've decided to join Blair & others in the quest for weight loss. Aidan didn't bring on huge amounts of pregnancy weight (I'm below my prepregnancy weight, actually) but he did bring on loose skin, wider hips, and a flabby belly that just won't stop! I've always hated my belly, so this is a good way to address the issue with other moms.

I've alwyas been a bit larger, never the size 2 girl. Prepregnancy I proudly rocked size 13 jeans, and even they sometimes gave me muffin top. Now after Aidan I can wear size 11 jeans, with almost no muffin top but I still don't feel comfortable in my own skin. You can forget being naked! Not very good for my self esteem, or our sex life. ;)

I don't have a plan, per se. Portion control, and cut down on carbs. Carbs blow me up like a damn balloon, and make me retain tons of water. I'm not going all crazy ZOMG THERE WAS A BREADCRUMB ON MY SALAD but a little control does a body good.

As for working out, I'll probably do the 30 Day Shred, and then some walks with Aidan & Mike, maybe some bike riding when Mike is watching Aidan. I also have some free weights I can lift to help tone up my arms, aka the fatness. I had an exercise ball, but my damn cats felt the need to try to balance on top of it, and it died a slow death, leaking air until there was none left. RIP exercise ball, you were my good friend.

So, in short. Fatty is going to try to tone it up a little with the help and motivation from a wonderful bunch of girls. :)

Stats:
Height: 5'7"
Prepregnancy: 195 lbs
Highest During Pregnancy: 225 lbs
6 Weeks Post Partum: 190 lbs

So my starting weight for this challenge is 190 lbs, and ideally I'd like to reach 130 lbs, but 150 is my goal for now. At 150 I am happy and more confident, and that's my main goal. :)

One Month Letter

2009-12-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Aidan,

I refuse to believe I've known you for only a month. I honestly feel like my whole life I've known you. My whole life is you. My whole life was leading up to me being your mother. I really feel that way, and I couldn't be happier with you.

Your smiles melt my heart, you cries ice it over until I can make sure you are okay. I never thought I'd be able to smile and adore a little screaming baby at 3am when I haven't slept more than an hour at a time in days. But I do. And when you sleep through the night I never thought I'd wake up and check on you, I figured I'd be too exhausted to care. I was up multiple times just to know you were breathing.

You've taken my world, shook it, turned it upside down, and I can't remember what my life used to be like anymore. What did I do when I got home from work? Now I hold you, feed you, and rock you long after you've fallen asleep. What did I do on the weekends? I crammed as many work hours in as possible because I was bored, now I try to leave work as much as possible because I can't stand the thought of you lacking quality time with your mother.

I am scared to death I'm somehow harming you by being back to work so soon. I really hope our time together, althought scant, is quality time that shows you how much I care. I know it's irrational, so I really hope one day you'll understand.

My little man, so innocent. It's hard to be mad when you cry. You don't know how to manipulate anyone. You don't know how to act like a spoiled brat. You only know a few basic things (am I fed, changed, clothed, warm, secure?). the innocense I see in your face while you're sleeping literally brings me to tears.

So, my little man, I hope time slows down a bit. It's gone by way too quickly and now I can't help but panic a little because I already see so many changes in you. It's hard to adjust, but we'll work through it together, okay?

Love You,
Mommy

Routines + Holidays

2009-12-29T05:25:00.001-08:00

Routines + holidays don't mix well with us, apparently. We happily had Aidan on a routine (well, as much of a routine as an infant can have!) and he was sleeping through the night easily. Enter the holidays, and all routine was out the window. Also out the window was any hope of him sleeping through the night! We were out all day, therefore he was up most of the day, and out late at night. You'd think he would be more tired, and sleep better, but nope. He was up every 2-3 hours again.

Luckily last night we had no obligations, went home after work, and went right back to our routine. bath, bottle, rocking to sleep. He was out like a light by 10pm, and didn't make one single peep until 6:30am.

Good, good boy. Momma loved the sleep.

I guess our little man thrives on routine, which is nice, because I do too. I get disgruntled easily when my days are skewed by unknown circumstances.

The holidays were good over here in our little world. Get togethers and plenty of gifts, and yummy food. Truthfully I'm just happy they are over. It was stressful with a new baby and not really having tons of money to throw out the window to buy gifts for everyone. The whole family insisted on exchanging gifts so we felt pressured into reciprocating. I feel bad because we didn't really have the extra money, but we did, and they liked their gifts and now it's over. Aidan got lots of things, clothes, a couple toys, diapers, etc. I'll have to take some pictures of the best items.

My favorite, most treasured present (other than my beautiful son) is a necklace that my brother and sister in law bought me. You can see what it looks like http://www.thingsremembered.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/TRproduct_10001_9951_599760_-1 there. They had it engraved with "Aidan Michael" on the heart. I definitely teared up and haven't taken it off since. It isn't super expensive or fancy, but it's so precious to me.

I have more pictures to share once I'm at home, and I have his 1 month letter coming later today hopefully. I can't believe he's over 1 month old already!

I Found Santa

2009-12-25T14:44:00.001-08:00

He might of stolen my heart first thing this morning, all dressed up and quietly looking around.
He also got quite excited when he realized there was fur on his collar, and on the ends of his sleeves. He rubbed against his collar all day.

He was pretty pooped out by the end of the day. Being Santa isn't easy after all.
Merry Christmas from Aidan, Mike, & Me! :)

Week Four

2009-12-24T12:22:00.001-08:00

Aidan is 4 weeks old today! With that announcement I have some pictures, and of course updates!

Here is my big boy, eyeballin me and wondering when he gets to eat again. LOL. His hair is starting to get wavy, which isn't surprising since Mike and I both have wavy hair. I think it's absolutely precious! Pardon my face, the flash was really bright, and I had just got home from a 10 hour work day so I was exhausted!

Here's Booboo Butt in his bouncer. He is finally liking the bouncer. Up until this week he would scream within minutes of being put in it, but he's finally learned to appreciate it, and he wiggles around to the music just to make himself bounce. It's so precious to watch.

Aidan's version of a smile. He's getting there! He smiles his little half smile a couple times a day. It doesn't seem to be gas related, but it might be. Either way it melts my heart each and everytime, especially when he smiles at me when I get home from work! It's like he missed me. :)
Another one of us. We both look a little wonky, but it shows off his cute double chin, and mine, too. LOL.

Aidan slept through the night a couple nights in a row so far. The first time was Sunday night, from 11pm-6:30am. Monday night he got up once to eat (but slept 9 hours all together). Tuesday was 8 hours all together, with one feeding in the middle, and Wednesday night was a 6 hour stretch, a feeding, and then another 4 hour stretch.

I can hopefully say this will continue! He's an excellent sleeper. He just lays there and snores his little baby snores, and even when he does wake up to eat he doesn't go straight to screaming, he just wiggles around and grunts enough to wake me up, and I feed him and he goes straight back to sleep.

I'm not even going to lie, even if this whole sleeping well thing is only temporary, we're definitely enjoying the increased sleep. It makes my time with him SO MUCH more enjoyable when I have some sleep.

He is so much more alert now than he was last week. He spends hours at a time awake, just looking around and cooing, and grunting, and being quiet. He isn't a crier unless he needs something. I consider us SO BLESSED. I read about poor babies who cry all the time, and their poor parents and I can't even imagine. I'm thrilled to have such a good baby boy.

He's starting to develop a sense of independence. Sometimes I'll hold him after I feed him and he'll start to fuss. If I lay him down alone he will lay there happily and quietly and eventually fall asleep. Sometimes he wants to be held, but sometimes he just wants to be left alone! Just like me and Mike. LOL.

We had an allergic reaction with him, and it scared the crap out of us! I went to buy formula and decided to try CVS brand soy formula since Enfamil Prosobee is so expensive, and his first feeding with it was around 1am Wednesday morning. He spit up pretty much everything he ate, but he fell asleep so I figured it was reflux related and I let him sleep it off. I went to work as usual Wednesday and Mike called me around 2pm saying Aidan wouldn't eat, and when he did he would spit it all up and then cry for more, wash rinse and repeat. We figured it was formula related, he didn't have a fever. I left work, bought Enfamil, and came home and fed him. Sure enough he ate it all up, then some more, and kept it all down. By last night he had a rash all over his face where he had spit up that CVS formula. Anywhere the formula touched on his face and chest he has broken out in a red bumpy rash. It's slowly getting better today, but it's still there. Poor boy, I can't even imagine how he must of felt on the inside when he ate the formula since he has a rash on the outside. I feel SO GUILTY, but I had no way of knowing he'd be allergic!

So from now on we have a strict Only-Enfamil policy in our house. Every other brand of formula we've tried with him has not gone well for one reason or another. I'd rather spend the money and have a happy, healthy baby!

So it's Christmas Eve and tonight we're going to be with Mike's Dads side of the family. Tomorrow we're going to my grandparents house in the early afternoon, and Mike's Moms later in the afternoon. Busy busy! Aidan has a santa outfit we're dressing him in tomorrow. I'll make sure to take pictures. He's snoozing right now, so I'm going to go hop in the shower while Mike watches him. I hope everyone has a happy holiday!

Week Three

2009-12-21T09:43:00.001-08:00

Here's my little man, looking confused as to why I was taking pictures instead snuggling him. This week has gone well. He definitely hit a growth spurt at 2 weeks, and I think he's possibly starting one this week as well. I try not to put too much stock in growth spurts though, isn't that first year one big growth spurt pretty much? LOL. His sleeping is going well, he's napping a little less during the day and only waking up 2-3 times per night maximum. If I go to bed around 11pm I only have to get up with him once, maybe twice. It's really nice to get some uninterrupted sleep in 3-4 hour stretches!

Here's Booboo in his car seat. I wish I was a picture to compare it to, but he used to be swallowed by his car seat! He actually fits it pretty well now, and we had to loosen the straps a little to accomodate him.
He's such an old man in a small body.. he's so pensive and quietly alert through most of the day. He just loves to stare at our faces, and whenever a cat meows he gets all excited and frustrated trying to find the source of that noise. It's super cute.
Big yawn, showing off his perpetually white tounge, thanks to the soy milk for that. I thought he had a case of thrush, but it all wipes off if I sit there and attempt to wipe it off, which I don't anymore now that I know it's just formula!
And one last picture of him sleeping, so peaceful! And before anyone gripes at me we live in Florida and it was 80 degrees outside! He was perfectly toasty and warm. :)

I can't believe we're almost at 1 month with him. It seems like I've known this little person forever! I'm happy to say my weight loss is ongoing, albeit obviously quite a bit slower than those first few weeks. I am also happy to say that the majority of my baby blues have gone away. I was a bit worried about post partum depression considering my past with anxiety and depression, but so far things are going okay, no extended crying jags or any irrational thoughts or feelings.

I'm feeling good overall. I'm not really bleeding anymore, I'm barely even spotting. I don't have to wear any sort of panty liners anymore. YAY for that, I hated it! I almost maybe feel like I could be up for some sexy time, but so far I'm holding off. I want to wait at least a month post partum, and 6 weeks falls on January 7th. I am also nervous about getting pregnant again so soon. I love Aidan, but please no more for at least a couple years!! LOL. I'm thinking about getting a 2 year IUD placed at my 6 week appt. I definitely will NOT remember to take a pill every day, so obviously standard birth control really isn't a good idea. I thought about Depo, but I've heard weight gain is common with that and I don't need to gain any weight! Plus my periods were pretty severe prepregnancy, so I'm hoping an IUD could help lighten them a bit, and help ease off some of the PMS symptoms. We'll see!

I will be posting another update for Christmas, and then another for his 4 week update. Time is flying!

Week Two + Pictures

2009-12-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

Aidan is over two weeks old now! I already see so many changes in him. His little fingernails are already twice the size they were at birth, his toes and fingers are longer, his eyes are settling more into a brown rather than slate gray, etc. My little man is literally changing before my eyes.

The second week went much better than the first for the most part. He settled into a every 2-4 hour sleeping/eating schedule at night, so that helps out tremendously! He had his two week pediatrician checkup, he's now 21 inches tall and 7 lb 15 oz. So he regained all of his weight plus some! He also appears to have reflux. Doctor put him on two medications, Zantac and one other one I can't remember. It's really helping a ton. He doesn't spit up as much anymore, doesn't arch his neck and back to the breaking point after feedings. the doctor was skeptical but I knew all about reflux and he had classic symptoms so he relented and gave us the meds. I'm so happy I held my ground because it's helped his sleep, and helped us sleep better too. he doesn't act like he's in pain anymore. yay!

I am sick, but luckily I'm getting over it. Wednesday I woke up from a nap feeling like crap, took my temp and it was 102! By that night it was 103. Mike slept in the living room with Aidan in the travel crib so I could get some uninterrupted sleep. My fever was gone the next day, but my sore throat, headaches, runny stuffy nose, and swollen glands still persist. I'm keeping my distance from Aidan unless I'm doing something neccesary like changing or feeding him. I don't want him sick!

I had my two week checkup at my OBs office too. According to their scales I've lost 43 lbs in two weeks. They were shocked! I almost fell off the scale, too. I weighed in at 230 on delivery day, and 187 on Thursday. I am somewhere around 185 today. I'm not doing anything different, I'm eating all my meals, I'm certainly not exercising or anything yet. I guess I'm a freak of nature.

That's me in early labor.

And that's me today.

Aidan also had his first bath and he loved it! Here's an after picture, happy as a clam in his ducky towel. <3

The First Week

2009-12-07T11:52:00.000-08:00

I can't believe our son is over a week old already! He's doing really well. His cicumcision is healed nicely, and his umbilical cord stump fell off last night at some point because I found it in his sleeper this morning.

Things have been hectic, but wonderful. He is a really good baby. He sleeps a lot during the day, like most newborns. The first week was a little hard because his nightly schedule was being awake (and crying) from around midnight until at least 7am. Luckily into the second week he's started to regulate himself, and he's been sleeping 2-3 and sometimes 4 hour stretches at night, only really waking up to eat. It's really nice to get those 3 hour stretches of sleep. I've been trying to regulate myself to less sleep because I go back to work on Friday and I won't be able to nap! I have been trying to stay up during the days this week, last week I napped every day. LOL.

I am happy to go back to work, even though it's really early. I'm ready to get back into earning money. Sucks that Mike can't find a job, because otherwise I could afford to stay home longer! Stupid job market.

My outside stitches are dissolved, I'm not sure about any internal ones. Obviously I'm not sticking anything up there to find out. Feeling pretty well these days, except for a killer headache today.

I've already lost all of my baby weight, I actually weigh 3 lbs less than when I found out I was pregnant. Not sure how that happened, but I'll take it! So nice to be able to wear prepregnancy clothes again.

Aidan has his 2 week checkup on Wednesday, and I go for my 2 week checkup on Thursday. I hope he's doing well, and myself, too. I can't wait to see how much he weighs, I'm sure he's surpassed his birth weight by now. These two weeks have been a whirlwind.. poor Mike is in for a shock starting Friday. He knows he's staying home with Aidan but I don't think he understands quite what it means to be alone with a newborn all day. He's really good with changing diapers, feedings, etc. I'm not worried about leaving them alone together, but I hope he can handle it. I can't afford daycare with Mike not working right now!

Anyway, I'm going to go change a diaper and love on my son.

Labor Story

2009-12-02T10:51:00.001-08:00

So I've been putting off writing this. I wasn't sure how to format it, what to say, and didn't want any details to be lost in translation. It was such a precious, scary time for me. I really hope to remember it so I'm forcing myself to write it out finally while Aidan sleeps.

I went in for my scheduled induction on Wednesday, November 25th at 7am. They took my right up to labor and delivery, I changed into a gown, and my nurse set up my IV for fluids. After a quick cervix check, still 1cm and 50% effaced, my nurse popped some Pitocin in my IV line at 8am and we were getting settled in. I had Mike with me of course, and my really good friend Stacey took her time to be with me there, too. We sat around and played cards, Phase 10. I started getting menstrual cramp like contractions around 9am, but they didn't reach a painful point until about noon. By noon I was having clear cut contractions, I could feel the beginning, the peak, and the end of each one. By this point I had been having consistant contractions every 2-4 minutes for about 4 hours, so she checked me again. I was only 2cm and 60% effaced. After she checked me I started losing my mucus plug, and that resulted in pretty much constant bleeding for the rest of my labor. By 3pm my contractions were painful enough that I wanted the TV off, total silence, and something for pain. Because I was still early on an epidural was out of the question, since my doctor seemed to think I would end up a 2 day induction. I opted for a shot of Nubain, which basically made me feel drunk. I spent 4 hours in and out of sleep, only waking up for contractions. I could still feel them, even though the sensation was dulled a bit.

By 6pm my doctor checked me and I was 2.5cm and 80% effaced. She turned off the Pitocin, let me shower, eat dinner, walk around, etc. She wanted me to rest, so I took an Ambien and passed out until 4am when my IV was hooked back up to the Pitocin. I started having pretty immediate contractions. My body remembered the pitocin and kicked right into gear. By 6am I was really, really uncomfortable with such close contractions and I had to go to the bathroom. I went to sit up and I felt like I had peed on myself! I got up, went to the bathroom, and came back. I noticed though that with every contraction more fluid would leak out. I really didn't want to cry wolf, but I mentioned it to my nurse anyway. She kind of laughed and said it was probably urine, but when she checked me it was my water! It definitely broke on it's own at 6:05am when I was only 2.5cm. By 6:30am I was in tears, begging for an epidural. Whoever said contractions kick in big time after your water breaks was NOT lying! My stupid nurse didn't want to give me an epidural, since I was so closed still, but after talking to my doctor she relented and called anethesiology. I was about 2 second away from hitting her if she didn't comply ;)

Dr. Ben came in and gave me my epidural. I had to answer questions so he knew that I knew I was consenting to it, had to sign a paper even though I'd preregistered. It was over and done with in about 10 minutes, and no, it didn't hurt at all. Compared to the contractions I'd been having I would have let him stab me 50 times in the back!! I was also given another shot of Nubaine, because my stupid nurse "didn't hear me" when I said I didn't want it, that I'd wait for the epidural. So I spent the rest of my labor in and out, passing out anytime I wasn't being spoken to.

I was checked at noon, and I was 6cm, 100% effaced. My nurse said the lip of my cervix was swollen, and even though I was a 6 the lip was making my cervix remain partially blocked. She decided to fiddle around in there to see if she could stretch my cervix lip out of the way. At this point I had partial sensation in my legs, and I could somewhat feel what she was doing. It didn't feel good, and I couldn't imagine what it would feel like without any medication! She did manage to move it out of the way, and managed to stretch me to 8cm while she was in there. My cervix was swollen 2 full cms! She left for a minute, and by the time she came back I was in transition. I was crying again because I could feel the contractions and the pressure was IMMENSE. I was shaking the whole bed, crying all over myself, and all Mike could do was stare and ask Stacey if this was normal. I tried to tell him it was but I was shaking so bad I thought I'd bite my tongue off with my teeth chattering.

My stupid nurse came prancing back in the room singing "someone looks like they are almost completeeee! look at those shakes!" and I would have literally throat punched her if I thought I would be able to. :P

She told me I'd be pushing in about 30 minutes, she was off to call my doctor and then came back and was setting up. She checked me 5 minutes later and I was complete, ready to go. She instructed me NOT TO PUSH because my cervix lip was swollen again. She thought I might end up with a c section because of it. If I could have lifted my leg I would have kicked her, because no way did I go through all of this to end up with a c section. My doctor popped in, pretty cheerful considering I'd interrupted her Thanksgiving! She agreed my cervix was inflamed, but she said she'd manually hold it back while I pushed. I thought, "okay!" but as soon as she started to hold it back I was screaming in pain. Seriously pushing out my son was EASIER to deal with on a pain level than her hand in there doing god knows what she had to do to get him out. I am not happy my epidural wasn't working right, but it helped me to push because I could feel it. Oh, by the way, the Ring of Fire is definitely an accurate statement to describe what crowning feels like!

I started pushing at 1:56pm on Thanksgiving day, 11/26. I pushed for a total of 5 contractions, 3 pushes each. I delivered Aidan Michael at 2:08PM. He was 7 pounds, 12 ounces, 20.5 inches long. I did have an episiotomy, & stitches.

Honestly it hasn't been bad at all. I expected to feel a lot worse than I do. He is such a joy, incredibly handsome. He has his days and nights mixed up, he sleeps all day and it up from midnight until whenever he stops fighting sleep. The first 4 days was midnight until 7am, last night was midnight until 4am. I'm hoping it keeps getting better!

There was a mix up at the hospital and he wasn't able to be circumcised there, so we took him this morning. He took it well, he screamed for a minute afterwards, and in the car on the way home. Once he was fed and snuggled he fell asleep and has been out all day. I can barely wake him to feed him! My poor little man is tuckered out from it.

Anyway, I hope someone took the time to read that, and hopefully it helps someone else! :)

2009-11-27T19:16:00.000-08:00

1 day old photo taken by the hospital photographer.

Welcome Aidan!

2009-11-27T11:54:00.000-08:00

Aidan Michael born 11/26 at 2:08PM after 20 hours on pitocin & 12 minutes of pushing. He is 7lb12oz, 20.5 inches long. 10 fingers, 10 toes, & the absolute best thing to ever happen to me. So worth the diet, the swelling, the wait, the episiotomy, etc. I'll post a birth story soon.

Last Day

2009-11-24T12:27:00.001-08:00

..before I'm a mom. It's pure insanity.

We slept in until 10am. Got up, and got online. It was weird to not go to work! We hung out and relaxed until lunch time and then we went to Taco Bell and ate lunch. When we got home we stuck Aidan's sheets and bumper in the washer so they are fresh for him, and we've been cleaning some. I got our clothes bag for the hospital packed. I am about to finish cleaning, then take a shower, shave, etc so that I can pack our toiletries. I refuse to spend more time in the hospital without my own shampoo and conditioner. Theirs sucks!!

I am also going to wash our pillow cases, sheets, etc so that we have a clean bed to come home to also. Plus I don't want to take dirty pillows to the hospital with me. LOL.

I really only need to sweep the house, do dishes, and then swiffer mop. And laundry. Then I'm finished for the day.

It also occured to me this morning that I haven't bought a trash can for the nursery yet. And I also haven't bought any pads for when I come home from the hospital. I'm not sure how I've made it this far without thinking of those two items, but I have! So I'm taking off for the store later on to grab a small, cheap trash can and some super sized pads for my post partum bleeding.

Such an exciting last day, hmm? It may not be exciting, but it's keeping me busy so that I'm not freaking out. Which is always a plus. :)

Induction Set

2009-11-23T11:15:00.001-08:00

YAY!!

I'm 1cm dilated, 50% effaced, and he's -2 station. And this is enough to schedule my induction. YAY! I call labor and delivery tomorrow, and if they have a bed open I go tomorrow. If not, I will definitely go in on Wednesday. I'm so super excited.

:)

Still Here

2009-11-19T14:52:00.000-08:00

I'm still here, still pregnant. No signs of anything changing.

I just can not bring myself to have as much sex as I should. I am just not in the mood. Once a day is even asking a lot of me, and I have to force it. Blah. The only reason I force once a day is I really believe it might help.

I've been walking, too. Not dedicated walks, but I haven't shyed away from any shopping oppurtunity etc that might give me a chance to walk a lot. All that's done so far is make my feet swell EVEN MORE and my hips feel like they are broken.

I'm okay though. Today was nice. Met up with my friend who's 11 weeks pregnant and we went out to the Chinese buffet and had some yummy food. Then we went to a consignment store and looked at maternity clothes for her, and baby clothes for Aidan.

Now I'm about to go hop in the shower and wash my hair. I'm ready to get today over with so that I'm one day closer to Monday. I'm hoping for some progress so I can have this baby!!

No Baby Yet

2009-11-17T05:12:00.000-08:00

I'm still here, still pregnant, and quite weepy about it, actually.

I went in for my appt yesterday with my OB. Cervix is still completely closed, really thick, and Aidan is still up high. So no progress whatsoever.

She chose not to induce me this week, just because the risk of a failed induction and/or emergency c-section is way higher when there's no natural labor progression at the start.

Logically I understand and appreciate her desire to avoid chopping me into bits on the surgery table and/or putting Aidan in a stressful situation when my body just isn't prepared for it.

But I still am sad. I was really prepared and excited to meet my son, and knowing I have to wait just plain sucks. I'm in so much pain, and just ready to get the ball rolling.

I went and walked the mall yesterday with my girlfriend. I ate some spicy food. I had some sex.

My OB prescribed sex 3 times a day, and my fiance is actually less up for this than I am. I'm trying my best though to get in on on a regular basis. I'm just so tired of being pregnant!! Oh, nipple stimulation, too. Tried a little of that.

I'm not going to be downing any oils or any weird things, just natural, normal things that aren't going to make me crap my pants and have false labor. :P

I'm sorry I haven't been around on The Bump lately. I miss you girls but I just haven't had time! I've been so tired all the time, and so swollen and sore. My right foot has been so swollen for so long that the top of it literally feels like it's broken. Anytime something touches it I just want to cry because it feels so bruised.

Anyway, enough whining. Other than normal pregnancy aches I'm actually holding up really well. I'm still sleeping well, etc. I'm grateful to have such a big healthy boy, and while I can't wait to meet him I know it isn't going to hurt for him to bake a little bit longer. :)

Ergh

2009-11-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling pretty under the weather. I've been convinced for over a week now that I'm "getting sick" but the symptoms never go away, and I never actually get sick. My OB seems to think it's just general pregnancy blahs.

I am so exhausted, all. the. time. Coupled with horrible headaches everyday, insane swelling (hands, feet, legs, and face), general aches and bones popping all the time.. it just makes me pretty miserable. I'm so grateful to only have to work 4 hours a day. By the time I get home I'm ready for a nap everyday, literally. And I'm not a napper, I didn't even nap in first trimester!

I'm not even really nervous about having him anymore. I think I've officially hit the "I'm done" point. I know I'm in for a shock of life with a newborn, but dear lord I'm so ready to have this boy and meet him and see why I've been so miserable the past couple weeks. I'm ready to move on and take that next step and actually have a son instead of just being a big whiner all the time.

He's going to be so worth it, I just know it.

Update Again

2009-11-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

Went to OB today. Cervix is not even a fingertip dilated. Not thinned at all, and he's still up high.

She said I'm 37 weeks today, so next week will be 38 weeks. Glad to have that situated!

I'm not sad about not seeing any progress, there is an end in sight (induction) whether I'm progressing naturally or not. :)

She said weight is good, sugars are good. No real concerns, just ride out my last full week of being pregnant, because next appt on Monday it will be a matter of days until I have him.

My fasting numbers this past week dropped even more.

92.5 fasting average
89.0 after breakfast average
106.8 after lunch average
106.0 after dinner average

So yay for that. Whatever I'm doing is working, apparently.

Aidan was being stubborn. Dr Murphy was trying to get us a 3D shot of his face, and he got irritated with being pressed on and he put his hand up in front of his face and pushed back against the ultrasound wand. The whole screen was his hand, super detailed fingers and all. It was crazy cute, and even though we didn't get a shot of his face it was adorable to see his little hand like that. :)

38 Weeks

2009-11-07T08:53:00.000-08:00

How far along? 38 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +23 total
Maternity clothes? About 95%
Stretch marks? My old ones are growing a bit,
Sleep: Still sleeping like the dead.
Best moment this week: The weather getting a bit cooler. Totally not baby related, but awesome!
Movement: Lots of rolling and stretching, not any real big kicks anymore.
Food cravings: Pasta, bread.. pretty much anything I can't have much of. LOL
Gender: BOY!!
Labor Signs: Braxton Hicks, and random cramping.
Belly Button in or out? Definitely out.
What I miss: Being able to do a lot of things in one day without cramping/swelling/aching.
What I am looking forward to: Being induced in about a week? or 2?
Weekly Wisdom: Don't take things forgranted. Not really baby related, but good advice either way.
Milestones: Being full term, and knowing I'm having a baby in a matter of days.

I'm SO CONFUSED about my due date! LOL. My original date was 11/24. Then 11/30. Then 11/21. I've been using 11/21 for the purpose of this blog, and I'm continuing to do so. My OB was using 11/30 for the longest time, but I'm not so sure now.

Based on 11/21 due date I'm 38 weeks today. Which would mean I'm having a baby within 3-4 days max.

Based on 11/24 due date I'll be 38 weeks on Tuesday. So again, within a matter of days.

Based on 11/30 due date I'll be 38 weeks on 11/16. Which would mean I have 9 days until I'm 38 weeks, and I would be induced at some point during a 7-14 day period.

See why I'm so confused? My last ultrasound where it says "gestational age" they had 37 weeks, and that was taken on 11/02, which would mean I'll be 38 weeks this coming monday.

.... I just confused myself. Definitely going to ask my OB on monday!

Even More Math

2009-11-04T08:39:00.001-08:00

Since last week my averages have dropped even lower.

93.7 Fasting
100.0 After breakfast
109.0 After lunch
112.1 After dinner

This is 6.3 points lower fasting, 5 points lower after breakfast, 9.1 points lower after lunch, and 3.2 points lower after dinner.

I'm so incredibly proud of this. My numbers are perfect, even my fasting number is almost where it should be (under 90).

This means total since my first week I've lowered my fastings 35 points, breakfasts 17 points, lunches 27 points, and dinners 53 points!!

I hate math, but it's kind of fun to see how things average out.

OB Update

2009-11-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

Say my OB today. Sugars are still good, so I'm still out of the hospital.

Aidan is still head down, yippee!! His heartbeat was 165, which is a bit higher than usual but he was wide awake and kicking at the ultrasound wand the whole time. We got a really cute picture of his face. He definitely has my nose, and really adorable chubby cheeks.

Induction is still set in my 38th week. It's a floating schedule, and my name is already on the list. Once they have availibility they will call me in to start the induction. So basically I won't know in advance, really, they just call and tell you when to show up. It can be any time that week.

I had my Group B Strep swab taken. That was simple and easy.

I also had my first internal exam. I'm closed up tight, cervix is thick, and still up high. So I'm locked up like Fort Knox. She was hoping all my Braxton Hicks and cramping were getting me somewhere, but no such luck. We might be in for a long induction!

I told my OB about my killer headaches, and how I've had one pretty much constantly since my appt last week. She said my blood pressure is fine, and I'm not spilling proteins, so she isn't worried about pre-eclampsia. I'm very happy to hear that, I've been a bit concerned. She did prescribe me Fioricet, though, to be taken as needed with a maximum of every 6 hours. I don't plan on taking it that frequently, unless my headaches don't go away. I took one about 30 minutes ago right when I got my script filled, and I feel a little drowsy and relaxed. Head still isn't completely clear though. I'm hoping it'll ease off more once I eat something.

Mike is making cheeseburgers for lunch. Words can't describe how excited I am to chow down. I've definitely hit that pregnancy "stuff my face constantly" stage.

And I officially have my first stretch marks! With only 2 weeks to go!! I'm not surprised at all, I had them at puberty, so I figured I'd get them in pregnancy, too. I don't really have any NEW stretch marks, but I did already have some on my stomach and hips from puberty, and those have sort of lengthened themselves. Apparently I'm pretty lucky though because last night the tips of them were all red and weird looking, but this morning they have already faded to look like my stretchmarks from puberty. I don't know how that works, but I'll take faded marks over blood red ones! :P

Picture!

2009-10-31T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is me in all of my bed raggled glory. I look hungover and exhausted, but that's just because I've had a ton of Braxton Hicks this morning and I've been cramping a lot. I'm also at work so I'm really not in the best mood, but I'm trying!

Depending on which due date you use, I'm either 37 weeks today, or 35w5d. I will assume 37 weeks since I've been blogging using my adjusted due date, and not my original due date.

How far along? 37 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +20 total
Maternity clothes? About 95%
Stretch marks? No new ones!
Sleep: Still sleeping like the dead.
Best moment this week: Reaching 37 weeks!!!!!! Having an OB checkup and being able to stay out of the hospital!!
Movement: Kicks, nudges, rolls, and flips the majority of the day.
Food cravings: Pasta, bread.. pretty much anything I can't have much of. LOL
Gender: BOY!!
Labor Signs: Braxton Hicks, and random cramping.
Belly Button in or out? Definitely out.
What I miss: Being able to do a lot of things in one day without cramping/swelling/aching.
What I am looking forward to: Being induced in about 2 weeks!
Weekly Wisdom: Don't take things forgranted. Not really baby related, but good advice either way.
Milestones: Being full term, and knowing I'm having a baby in about 2 weeks!

Averages

2009-10-29T13:37:00.001-07:00

Lets play averages, shall we?

These are my average sugars since I've been out of the hospital:

Fasting: 100.0
After Breakfast: 105.0
After Lunch: 118.1
After Dinner: 115.3

Compared to my previous numbers, I've managed to lower my numbers quite a bit.

I lowered my fastings by about 28.5 points. My breakfasts by about 12 points, lunches by about 18 points, and dinners by a whopping FIFTY POINTS!

It's insane, and I have no real explanation other than my original meal plan was wrong, and through a bunch of tweaking I've gotten quite far. The only number that isn't averaging out quite right is my fasting number (should be under 90 ideally) but my OB is content with an average of 100.. it's close, and my other numbers are well controlled.

Today has been a little hectic. I worked from 8-12, then I came home with a killer headache. I vegged out for a while, then I got up and made myself lunch. A big cheeseburger on a wheat bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, and ketchup with a side salad with diet 1000 island dressing. Mmm! Then I cleaned up bits of trash throughout the house, swept, did dishes, did a load of laundry.. now I'm sitting here about to eat my mid day snack, and then I'm going to take a shower, wash my hair, shave, etc. After that comes dinner decisions, I really want to cook something but we need to go to the grocery store!

I haven't been nesting cleaning wise, I'm just barely keeping up with maintaining house, but COOKING! OMG COOKING! I NEVER COOK. EVAR. But I've been cooking at least twice a day for the past week, and I can't get enough of it. I surf diabetes safe, low carb recipes and plan my meals in advance. It's crazy! I will admit I'm loving it, and so is Mike. He's appreciating the time off, since he was the designated chef of the house before. He really likes my garlic herb chicken, which of course made me super happy because I usually never cook.

Tonight I think we're going to watch The Orphan. I'm really freaked out by the idea of the movie, so I hope it's a good one! It's perfect timing too, with Halloween right around the corner.

Anyway, I'm going to go motivate some more and get some things done. In another hour or so I'll be busted out tired and not want to do anything else!

Time Is Flying

2009-10-28T05:04:00.000-07:00

Time has resumed it's previous hauling ass-ness, same as before I was admitted to the hospital. I have roughly 2.5 weeks left of being pregnant. What? Since I'm being induced at 38 weeks, that could be as little as 19 days from now, depending on what day in my 38th week I'm induced. Holy cow!! I guess my OB is using my original due date (11/30) when scheduling my induction, because according to my adjusted due date (the most recent one I was given) 38 weeks would fall on 11/07! I'll take that extra 9 days for Aidan to bake in there happily.

My numbers are still good. I had a little scare yesterday, my fasting number was 116, which isn't even close to under 90 like it's supposed to be. I had a migraine really bad the night before and didn't sleep well though, so I think that might have contributed to it being a little elevated. Today it was back to normal, and things are going okay.

My biggest complaint of the moment is my absolute laziness. I work 4 hours a day, come home, sit on the couch with my laptop, and vegitate. All. Day. Long. I mean I KNOW I'm supposed to be on bedrest, that's the whole point! It's just so unlike me. Luckily Mike doesn't bat an eyelash at my laziness, he is HAPPY I'm sitting on my butt growing a big healthy baby.

My biggest physical complaint is that my legs and pelvic region feel like they are at risk of being snapped in half like a Thanksgiving wishbone. Every step I take sends shockwaves up my hips and into my "lady area" that reverberate around in there and I feel like Barbie, with some silly child pulling her legs apart until one pops out of the socket. I'm still sleeping fantastic, thank you all that is holy! I am a big grumpers when I don't sleep well. I know I still have time left, but usually women have trouble sleeping by now. I guess I'm just really good at adapting to things like a big belly in the way ;)

I guess that's pretty much it for an update. I sat in the nursery yesterday in the rocking chair for about 2 hours, just looking around and noticing the details of the room and I sifted through his clothes, all so tiny and precious, handpicked with love. And I might of gotten a little misty eyed. Third trimester hormones are in full swing with me, but I'm keeping them under wraps pretty well. :)

GD Update

2009-10-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

Well, my numbers have been okay since I've been out.

And working 4 hours a day is kind of awesome. I'm so tired all the time, and it gives me time to do household things, take naps, etc. My stress level is WAY down from what it was before my hospital stay. I'm really grateful for my boss letting me work only 4 hours a day. In my job, there is no part time. It's overtime all the time, or no time. LOL. Luckily my boss is great!

I had one scare yesterday, I had a turkey sandwich on wheat, with lettuce, tomato, onion, and light mayo for lunch and my test number was 226!! After I picked myself up off of the floor (not literally, but almost!) I retested with a different finger and it was 119. A MUCH more reasonable number.

And I called in my refill for my prescription for my test strips, and they won't be available until Monday! I have enough to last until then, but only 3 strips extra. Hopefully I don't have too many times when I have to double test like yesterday, or else I'll run out!

I'm so grateful for the way things are. My cats are thrilled to have me home, and it's so nice to be able to snuggle with Mike again. Hospital bed + me + pregnant belly = not much room for Mike!

Thank you everyone for your well wishes, I can certainly feel them and I am using them as best I can, taking it one day at a time. :)

Busting Out

2009-10-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

I mean that not only in terms of my clothing due to a recent growth spurt, but also due to the fact that I might very well be leaving the hospital soon! I basically broke down to my OB yesterday, and explained to her that I want a healthy baby, but I also want to be able to provide for him once he arrives. Seeing as I'm the only person working in our household at the moment (and I get no maternity leave/short term disability/etc) I kind of can't just sit here idly. I have a mortgage to pay, circumcision to save for, etc.

She is honestly scared of my baby dying. She really is concerned about my bodys ability to regulate stress & blood sugars outside a hospital setting. She was concerned because SOMETHING about the hospital my body likes, since my numbers have been good.

But she also understands my concerns and desires to not lose my job, not lose my home, etc.

She set up a meeting with the nurse from the Diabetes center and I met with her earlier. We went over the foods I've been eating here, carb counts etc so that I can take that information home to use if I want to.

I'm going to be on a very short leash. I have to limit my work to 4hrs a day, and I'm on modified bed rest for the rest of the day. I can use the bathroom, cook, etc. but I have to spend the majority of my day sitting and relaxing. I have a very short amount of time to prove myself and my ability to keep my body under control while I'm out. She hasn't given me an amount of days, etc. but she is very concerned about my sugars skyrocketing and my baby dying because of it. I can't help but be scared of that, but I'm hoping with VERY CAREFUL monitoring on my part, and a lot of prayers from family and friends we can pull this off. As of right now Aidan is in there rolling around having a grand time. He seems like a happy baby, based on the way he acts in utero.

A nurse just came in and said I have to test my sugar on my own meter while she watches, so she can document that I know how to use it, etc and then she's going to call my OB and let her know so the process of being discharged can be started. Looks like I might get to sleep in my own bed tonight.

I'm so hopeful, but I'm also so scared. I really hope I'm making the right choice for my child. I wish I was rich and could sit here and not worry, but if I want to be able to have a home to bring my child home to I need to work at least a little bit, even if it's only 4 hrs a day.

Hospital

2009-10-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

I've been in the hospital since Thursday, October 15th. I am BORED OUT OF MY MIND. My OB FREAKED over my 1 time fasting sugar of 182 and had me admitted immediately leaving her office. Basically they aren't even doing anything for me. I'm picking my own foods, and my numbers are fine. They are testing my sugars, but I was doing that anyway. Basically they determined the stress of working, etc, was causing my sugars to jump way up.

My numbers have been low 100s and even 90s since I've been here, but yesterday I got fed up and cried half the afternoon away. My number last night was 156. Stress = high number.

I'm trying to finagle a way to get out of this damn hospital. Whether it be cutting back work hours, being on bedrest AT HOME, etc. I will literally do anything she asks but I refuse to stay in here.

She has flat out told me she's keeping me until I deliver (aka be induced, since she said 38 weeks is the magic number). I'm sorry, I've been here 5 days and you expect me to stay another 3 weeks?! No thanks, Dr Lady. No thanks.

Cross your fingers for me. I am asking her today if she'll have an endocrinologist come see me so me and the endo can come up with a plan (whether it involves insulin or not, as I'm currently completely off insulin and my numbers are fine!) that I could take HOME and use OUTSIDE.

Oh, and did I mention that I went FIVE DAYS without internet because no one felt fit to tell me that my hospital has free wifi? Yeah, my nurse was like "oh, are you online?" and I said no, and she was like "I can get you the wifi password and login, it's free".

It was like God sent this woman to my bedside.

Straight From Dietician's Mouth

2009-10-14T13:31:00.001-07:00

Well, after today's insane fasting number of 182, I called my dietician to see what, if any, changes I should be making to my diet. I faxed meal logs, and sugar logs, and she reviewed them.

My meals are perfect, I'm meeting nutritional guidelines, and not going over on sugar or carbs at all. My numbers are indeed too high (I've only had 6 sugar levels within range in 1 weeks time) and so tomorrow when I meet with my OB I'm either being put on an increased dose of N insulin at night (currently 20 units), or more likely increasing my night time dose of N, and I'll start taking R during the days.

Hmm.

At least I know my insane numbers aren't due to my diet. I was really stressed because my OB said a lot of women are non compliant with the diet aspect, and end up hospitalized and the GD regulates with diet control in the hospital. At least I know (according to my dietician) that my diet is not the cause, and even if she DID hospitalize me, my numbers most likely wouldn't get any better based on diet alone.

Big update, not quite what I was hoping for (diet is easier to fix, and I was hoping to avoid more insulin) but at least it's answers.

Well Darn

2009-10-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Today's fasting blood sugar was 189!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I obviously didn't take my walk last night. I had what I can assume were Braxton Hicks? Maybe? But some serious abdomen cramping/contracting going on. So I laid my big booty on the couch and then I wake up to see this number! I almost fell face first off my couch. I mean last nights after dinner number was a bit elevated (155) considering all I had was a can of Minestrone soup (38g carbs, I'm supposed to have 45g at dinner, so I didn't go over).. but I definitely did NOT expect such a high number. That's the highest it's ever been. I woke Mike up to double check that I took my insulin last night (hello, pregnancy brain!) and he said I did, so I don't know!

I have a call into my dietician, though, because I realllllly don't want to end up in the hospital over this. And my OB rescheduled my appt for tomorrow instead of today. I guess she has to deliver a baby this morning, and she wants to meet with me personally, and not have me just meet with a nurse. It's kind of hitting me that she considers me high risk, since before the GD it was no big deal for me to just see a nurse in her place.

I feel really stupid for getting my hopes up yesterday. I really feel like my body is failing me, and it's super frustrating.

Hmm

2009-10-13T06:22:00.000-07:00

I hesitate to say this, but I think my sugars might be regulating a little bit? Yesterday was pretty good (I managed to get 2/4 checks within range) and this morning my fasting number was the lowest it's ever been (107). So even though things still aren't GOOD, they are improving a little bit as time goes on. This gives me hope that when I go to my OB tomorrow she won't just throw me in the hospital!

34 Wks + Nursery Photos

2009-10-11T10:48:00.001-07:00

How far along? 34 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +20 total
Maternity clothes? About 95%
Stretch marks? No new ones!
Sleep: The past week I've slept like the dead.
Best moment this week: Starting insulin I guess, trying to get my sugars under control.
Movement: Kicks, nudges, rolls, and flips the majority of the day.
Food cravings: Pasta, bread.. pretty much anything I can't have much of. LOL
Gender: BOY!!
Labor Signs: None
Belly Button in or out? Popped out at least 85% of the day.
What I miss: Being able to do a lot of things in one day without cramping/swelling/aching.
What I am looking forward to: Reaching 37 weeks!
Weekly Wisdom: Sometimes the best laid plans can be foiled by your body. Don't get discouraged, just react and keep fighting.
Milestones: Being only 3 weeks away from full term, and 6 weeks away from my due date!

We worked diligently on the nursery this weekend. We had all of our stuff, just not really organized. We got it pretty much completed this weekend. The only 3 things missing are the lamp (being delivered this week), the rug (being ordered this week), and Aidan (on his way soon enough!)!! I took some pictures if anyone is interested!

The wall letter stickers & decorative stickers that match the bedding.

Really cute baby toy/blankie that currently lives on the handle of the car seat (which is covered with a blanket because my cats LOVE the car seat for some reason).
Bouncer..
Comfort corner. LOL. Rocking chair, with the comforter from the crib set on the back, and a baby blanket on the seat. Boppy pillow, too.

Dresser packed with clothes, stroller folded up, baby bather, bath items, etc.
Swing!
Adorable sign we got at our shower
Wall letter stickers over the closet doors
Pooh Bear found our travel crib we set up, luckily she's already bored with it and hasn't touched it since.
Surprise! My big fat feet after a 10 hour work day. Mind you I have an office, sit down job. I couldn't imagine if I was on my feet all day! Notice the ROLLS on my feet. That's the epitome of sexy right there.

So moving on, my blood sugars still aren't under control. I'm trying my best not to stress out (read somewhere stress can adversely effect blood sugar), eat according to meal plan, and keep track. I have a catch up phone appointment with my dietician this Wednesday, and another appointment with my OB on Wednesday, too. Hopefully my numbers will average out a little bit better this week than last week! I'm really, really hoping my OB will see that I'm TRYING and not send me packing my way to the hospital for the remainder of the pregnancy.

Anyway, I'm going to go enjoy the rest of my weekend! Hope everyone else is having a good weekend, too.

Insulin

2009-10-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday I took to heart everything my dietitican reccomended, and I ate something every 2 hours. I didn't miss one single oppurtunity to put something in my mouth. LOL. My sugar was high yesterday morning (as expected, hence the insulin), but my day time numbers were perfect. Once I hit dinner time it jumped to 142 after dinner, but I took my insulin, had my bed time snack, and went to bed.

I woke at 3am to test, just to make sure the insulin hadn't dropped my sugar TOO low, and it was 149. Upon waking it was 141.

I had the same breakfast as yesterday, 1 piece of wheat toast with a dab of peanut butter. I was skeptical, but my nutritionist swears by that breakfast. So, I had it yesterday and my number was fine. I had it this morning, and my number was 141. I almost fell out of my chair. I will admit to shedding a couple tears of frustration.

I had my mid morning snack, and mozzarella string cheese, same as yesterday. I'm crossing my fingers that my number is a little better before lunch. I'm having a grilled chicken sandwhich with lettuce, tomato, and light mayo on wheat bread for lunch.

I went from dealing pretty good with GD to suddenly being really, really freaked out. I was fine until she mentioned hospital bedrest. My bills and my bank account can't afford that and it really has me freaking out. I know insulin takes a couple days to regulate in the body, so I'm hoping in about two days my numbers will decrease a bit.

OB Appt

2009-10-07T13:42:00.000-07:00

Things went well. She put me on insulin, 20 units. But I don't know what times. I pick up my prescription tonight, and tomorrow afternoon I have a meeting with my diabetes nurse to set up an insulin schedule.

My OB was very concerned in general, and bumped my appointments up to once a week effective now. She said if my sugars aren't under control in about two weeks I will be forced into hospital bedrest so they can MAKE my blood sugar cooperate.

Not what I wanted to hear. I feel like this whole diabetes things went from 0-60 in about 2 seconds! I knew my numbers weren't good, but I thought some insulin would help that and things would be okay. Then next thing I know it she's mentioning hospital bedrest, and how I will only be pregnant a maximum of 5 more weeks because my placenta is already deteriorating a bit from the diabetes.

What? I mean I know I'm only 6.5 weeks from my due date, but 5 weeks (or sooner!) is really really soon. I guess I'm a bit freaked out.

And I'm really scared of the hospital bed rest, so I'm going to literally try any and everything possible to get everything under control. Which I was before, but I'll keep trying. I can't afford to sit in the hospital on IV insulin just so they can monitor me. I'm the only one of us who works! The bills wouldn't get paid. Not good.

I refuse to think any more about that. It won't come to that, hopefully.

33 Weeks + Dietician Appt

2009-10-07T04:46:00.000-07:00

How far along? 33 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +20 total
Maternity clothes? About 95%
Stretch marks? No new ones!
Sleep: The past week I've slept like the dead.
Best moment this week: The plethora of movement he's been doing!
Movement: Kicks, nudges, rolls, and flips the majority of the day.
Food cravings: Pasta, bread.. pretty much anything I can't have much of. LOL
Gender: BOY!!
Labor Signs: None
Belly Button in or out? Popped out at least 85% of the day.
What I miss: Being able to do a lot of things in one day without cramping/swelling/aching.
What I am looking forward to: Reaching 37 weeks!
Weekly Wisdom: Sometimes the best laid plans can be foiled by your body. Don't get discouraged, just react and keep fighting.
Milestones: Being only 4 weeks away from full term, and 7 weeks away from my due date!

So I met with my dietician this morning. She is concerned about why my fasting sugars are always 30ish points higher than they should be. For this she's putting me on insulin at nights, to help the fasting sugars in the morning. She is giving me one week to try to finagle a way to get my lunch/dinner sugars down by tweaking my foods, and if they are still high then I will be put on insulin during the day, too. This really didn't turn out the way I had hoped.

I was about to cry in the office. I brought my food journal where I've logged every item of food I've eaten ever since I found out I had GD and she said I'm doing everything 150% correct, but my body just is NOT reacting to diet and exercise, so it's time to step it up. She said since I have so little time left we really need to step it up quicker than she would with other patients, because every week that goes by he's just getting bigger and bigger, and my sugars are getting higher and higher.

Boo.

At least I know I'm not doing anything wrong though. It's really nice to know that everything I'm doing is helping, just not enough.

So, I see my OB later this morning. I'm supposed to relay the message about the insulin. I'm not sure at what point I will be started on the insulin, but at least we have a plan of action.

Updates

2009-10-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Well tomorrow I see my dietician again, and then my OB later on in the morning. I'm glad, because my sugars are all out of whack.

I can eat a cup of peaches in light syrup and have a perfect sugar, and have a salad and it'll be over 200??

Definitely strange.

My average for last week was 128.5 fasting. 117 after breakfast. 136.2 after lunch. and 165.4 after dinner. Obviously not good.

Really irritating, and it makes me not even want to eat because things aren't as well under control as I'd hoped. I guess knowledge about diabetes doesn't neccesarily translate into my body DOING what it needs to do. Who knew :P

Dedication Does Not Always Equal Success

2009-10-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

So despite my best efforts so far, the only time my blood sugars are within normal range is when I skip a meal entirely, and skip snacks. Even my fasting sugars first thing in the morning are too high.

It's frustrating to do everything 100% correct, and to know my body just can't conform to what needs to happen.

I'm not giving up, still trying new things, and trying my hardest to avoid medication if at all possible, though my OB doesn't seem to think it's looking very good at the moment.

GD Update

2009-09-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

So I went to my appt today with my GD nurse and Dietician. I'm on a fairly simple plan.

Test Fasting blood sugar
Breakfast: 1 carb, 2oz protein, and 1 fat
Test sugar 2 hours after first bite
Snack: 2 carbs, optional protein
Lunch: 3 carbs, 3 oz protein, and 2 fats
Test sugar 2 hours after first bite
Snack: 1 carb, 1 protein
Dinner: 3 carbs, 3 oz protein, 2 fats
Test 2 hours after first bite
Snack: 1.5 carbs, 1oz protein

Viola! (1 carb = 1 serving = 15 grams of any given carbohydrate I choose)

I tested in front of my nurse to show her I knew how to work the machine and it was 155, but it was only 1 hour after eating breakfast. I tested again after what would have been my lunch time, but I didn't get to eat!! It was 83, which is to be expected because at that point I hadn't eaten in 5 hours. I did manage my afternoon snack (some sliced chicken breast, and a string cheese) and I am ready for dinner!

Anyway, just thought I'd put up my plan in case anyone else was wondering what a GD diet plan might look like. :)

32 Weeks!

2009-09-26T08:53:00.001-07:00

How far along? 32 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +22 total
Maternity clothes? About 95%
Stretch marks? No new ones!
Sleep: The past week I've slept like the dead.
Best moment this week: Hearing his heartbeat at our appt.
Movement: Kicks, nudges, rolls, and flips the majority of the day.
Food cravings: It varies so much.
Gender: BOY!!
Labor Signs: None
Belly Button in or out? Popped out at least 75% of the day.
What I miss: Being able to do a lot of things in one day without cramping/swelling/aching.
What I am looking forward to: Baby shower October 3rd!
Weekly Wisdom: The Gestational Diabetes diet is really not hard at all.
Milestones: Being only 5 weeks away from full term, and 8 weeks away from my due date!

On The Hunt

2009-09-25T05:17:00.000-07:00

So yesterday for lunch I had a McDonalds Southwest salad with grilled chicken, and for dinner I had a chef salad.

I'm so happy I love salads. I'm sure my body is loving this extra fiber, too. I really had been slacking on my fiber intake previously. Anyway, I'm on the hunt for some good diabetes safe recipes, things that are simple to make + pack a lunch, etc. I'm not a cook by any means, I can make simple things though!

Anyone have any good resources for meal ideas, easy to pack lunches, etc? :) As much as I love salads I won't be loving them 8 weeks from now if I keep eating them all the time. I need some variety!

K, I'm off to go search google for some ideas.