37 Weeks

How far along?.37 weeks. 

Total weight gain: 23 lbs.My goal was to stay under 30, so I'm very pleased. Bring on the Fall 2014 races for motivation.

Maternity Clothes: Becoming limited. Accessories are the name of the game. 

Stretch Marks: No. I've used my fair share of creams and oils, but I really think it's just the luck of the gene pool.

Sleep: I think I'm still doing pretty well. Lots of bathroom breaks, and hard to go back to sleep sometimes, but I think things could be far worse. 

Best Moment this Week: Putting the finishing touches on the nursery and making his door hanger for the hospital. I feel like everything is coming together for us to be able to just wait patiently! The doctor estimated his weight this week to be a little above 7 lbs. Was that the best moment or the scariest? Verdict is still out. 

Miss anything? Being able to stand for longer than 5 minutes without being tired. Does that count?

Movement: Yep, lots of fluid movements and body parts. Thrilled to see him still moving and shaking. 

Food Cravings:  Salty wins every time, but Valentines candy is out, so sweet still has a chance in the game. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Too much dinner. 

Exercise:  This week I've really noticed things are a lot harder. Too much running makes me hurt all day, so I've had to swallow my pride and make some adjustments. I'm just happy to still be getting out despite being 37 weeks and cold temps. I know the longer I can stay active, the more benefits for D-day. That's my mantra when it's easier to stay in bed.

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: The day I turned 37 weeks, lots of people commented how much he had dropped. Confirmed at my 37 weeks appointment when despite no progress, she was shocked just how low down he was. I totally believe it. I almost get my daily exercise on the looong walk to the office bathroom. 

Symptoms: I made the mistake of wearing taller heels one day this week and my ankles paid the price. I will need to be creative with my wardrobe to get more flats in these last few weeks - at least 8-5. 

Most looking forward to: Besides birth day, I've been holding onto a deluxe pedicure gift card from Matt to use in the next week or so. I can't wait to be dipping my feet in that hot water soon!

36 Weeks

How far along? 36 weeks. Baby is packing on weight, at the rate of about an ounce a day. He's also shedding the waxy substance that covers his body, getting ready for all those first newborn snuggles. Can't. Wait. 

Total weight gain: 22 lbs.

Maternity Clothes:Feeling large and in charge and most comfortable at home in some leggings and sweatshirts. 

Stretch Marks: Nope.

Sleep: Not super tired, but I can sleep if I make myself stop nesting projects and go to bed. A lot of bathroom trips, and if I wake up, it's sometimes hard to go back to sleep. I've been catching up on lots of I Love Lucy reruns (4-7 a.m.) or Golden Girls if it's earlier in the morning. 

Best Moment this Week:  Dinner with Matt's parents to discuss plans for baby's arrival. Things are starting to get real, but at the same time, my mind cannot comprehend we will be loading the car and heading to the hospital in a matter of weeks.We also had Matt's work shower and were so excited to receive such sweet and thoughtful gifts. We are loaded and ready (as best one can be) for baby boy's arrival! 

Miss anything? Beer. It doesn't help MS has made some sort of campaign to try every craft beer in Birmingham. Sigh. 

Movement: Yes. I've been instructed to keep a closer eye on it, and some days he makes me a little nervous, but for the most part, he's pretty consistent and graceful, I might add. 

Food Cravings:  Hello, conversation hearts. Glad you've made your way to the point of purchase section of my local grocer. I heart you. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Too much ice cream at night makes me queasy. I battle through. It's a serious problem, but one can't dial back the Blue Bell Cookies n' Cream. I'll argue with anyone they make the best.

Exercise: Still doing what I can. Losing a little motivation, but I'm oh so close.

Gender: Boy!!

Labor signs: None whatsoever. Keep cooking.

Symptoms: Stomach has gotten really heavy, so I've had to slow way down. This is hard for someone with a new vacuum cleaner to play with and a dog that sheds constantly. 

Most looking forward to: His birthday!

35 Weeks

A little sneak peak of the nursery!

How far along? 35 weeks. Measuring length this week, and he's as long as a head of romaine. I don't think I realize how large I am until I see these pictures...

Total weight gain: 22 lbs.

Maternity Clothes: Is it even necessary to answer this anymore? But I have reached the stage where I've started to think about what I will wear post-baby. It feels like a whole new world!

Stretch Marks: Still winning the battle.

Sleep: Sleeping pretty well. Trying to follow everyone's advice of getting sleep now while I can. I've become best friends with the Snoogle. 

Best Moment this Week: Baby shower! I have such sweet friends that made his shower so pretty and special. Post to come. He is set up with everything he needs and we are just about as ready as one can be when your world is about to get turned upside down. 

Miss anything? Nope. 

Movement: He likes to roll and get those feet up in my ribs.

Food Cravings:  Eaten a lot of cookies and cream ice cream this week. Blue Bell is the taste winner, in case you were wondering. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Eating too much. 

Exercise:  I've about reached the point where running is getting uncomfortable. I think I'm going to experiment with adding in some more walking, since I'm so close to the finish line. 

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Had my first check this week. No reason to think he'll come early. Good thing. Mama needs her roots done first.  

Symptoms: A little more achy some days, but still feeling good! 

Most looking forward to: The nursery is done, the freezer is almost stocked. Just a few more things to check off my list and we'll just be tapping our fingers. 

34 Weeks

An unflattering picture is better than no picture at all. That's my motto. New Year's Eve 2013.

How far along? 34 weeks. Baby is the size of a cantaloupe!I believe it. He's a heavy little thing. 

Total weight gain: 19 lbs.

Maternity Clothes: When I'm not rocking Matt's oversize sweatshirts and t-shirts, as seen above.

Stretch Marks: Still winning the battle.

Sleep: Sleeping really well still. If this keeps up, I'll consider myself lucky. For a few more weeks.

Best Moment this Week: Spending NYE in with pizza and some good friends. 

Miss anything? Vacuuming without needing to sit down and catch my breath afterwards. 

Movement: Lots of rolls.Lots of body parts. It freaked me out a lot at first, but now it's kind of fun.

Food Cravings:  I really hoped this area would be more exciting, but I just like food. It's going to be hard to get back in line after February - I've been much more lax with my calories and sweet intake. All for a good cause.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Eating too much. Prenatal vitamins. Haven't quit either.

Exercise:  Still going strong. Really trying to stay motivated, and it's hard.

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Just getting tired/achy easier than usual. But overall, I cannot complain one bit.

Most looking forward to: Baby shower! This Type A is ready to get everything organized.

33 Weeks

Shamefully no picture again. Sad trombone. 

How far along? 33 weeks. Baby is losing his wrinkly appearance and gaining fat. From here on out, he's just putting on the pounds. What a job.

Total weight gain: 19 lbs.

Maternity Clothes: It's how I roll.

Stretch Marks: Still winning the battle.

Sleep: Vacation has meant staying up later (read: past 9 p.m.) and sleeping later (7 a.m.) 

Best Moment this Week: Having all day to do as I please. I finished the letters for his wall this week and even got a freezer meal made. 

Miss anything? Vacuuming without needing to sit down and catch my breath afterwards. 

Movement: Lots of rolls. I think he's graceful.

Food Cravings:  I really hoped this area would be more exciting, but I just like food. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Eating too much. Hasn't slowed me down.

Exercise:  Still at it. Even had some warm days this week where I got to wog in shorts and a t-shirt. Got to love the Alabama winters. 

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Just getting tired/achy easier than usual. But overall, I cannot complain one bit.

Most looking forward to: Finishing the nursery and our baby shower. 

32 Weeks

How far along? 32 weeks. Baby boy is the size of a jicama. What, you don't know what that is? Me either. He has fingernails, toenails and some peach fuzz for hair. I can't wait to see what color that fuzz is:) I was jet black when I was born and MS was blonde. 

Total weight gain: Around 17 lbs. 

Maternity Clothes: Yep. Leggings are the best, with a long sweater and a scarf. I have a feeling this will continue past February. 

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Sleeping well and looking forward to some time off where I can enjoy sleeping in, afternoon naps and staying up later than 9 if my little heart desires. 

Best Moment this Week: Getting dressed up for Christmas parties with my baby Daddy. 

Miss anything? I was a little sad to miss out on the holiday cocktails. Although I did have to have just a little sip of Martha Stewart's eggnog. 

Movement: Rolls and the alien movements - I can feel distinct body parts. I think MS got freaked out when he could feel the head straight on. 

Food Cravings:  I like it all. The Publix Premium White Christmas ice cream has won a special place in my heart though. Coffee flavored ice cream with espresso chocolate chips? Yes, please. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  Still at it. I'm really hoping the consistency pays off during and after delivery. It's getting harder and harder to get out in the cold, but it really does make me feel better and sleep better.

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Nothing yet. Have a few weeks before we'll even start checking at weekly appointments. I'ts amazing how the time has flown.

Symptoms: Things like cleaning and vacuuming wear me out pretty fast. The belly and lower back get really tight. Does this mean I can hire a maid? Please advise.

Most looking forward to: Christmas!

31 Weeks

I'm so ashamed. I don't have a picture. 

How far along? 31 weeks. Baby is a little over 3 pounds and starting to plump up. Yay! The eggnog will help.

Total weight gain: Between 16-17 pounds, depending on the day. 

Maternity Clothes: All maternity, all the time.

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Sleeping well and loving an afternoon nap (on the weekends, of course)

Best Moment this Week: Enjoying kicking off our last Christmas season as a family of 2. 

Miss anything? Nothing new worth noting.

Movement: Most active at night and early in the mornings. Fun times ahead! He is very graceful - lots of smooth rolls rather than kicks. 

Food Cravings:  Nothing crazy. Enjoying this last little bit of indulging myself without too much guilt.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  About half and half between kickboxing/weight lifting and running/walking. 

Gender: Boy! We even committed to a name. It's getting real.

Labor signs: Just now learning what they are, for when we get a little bit closer. 

Symptoms: A little more tired than usual, but nothing my 9 p.m. bedtime can't cure.

Most looking forward to: Finishing the nursery.I'm not sure the crib will ever arrive.

30 Weeks

How far along? 30 Weeks. Baby is the size of a head of lettuce and weighs almost 3 pounds. He'll really start packing on the pounds in the next 10 weeks - although from the 4D he has stored up a good bit in some plump sweet cheeks!

Total weight gain: Between 16-17 pounds, depending on the day. 

Maternity Clothes: Yep. And I've added the skill of being able to fill out a large sweatshirt. 

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Sleeping well and loving an afternoon nap (on the weekends, of course)

Best Moment this Week: Indulging in delicious Thanksgiving food. My mom made a spice cake that was out of this world.

Miss anything? Nothing new worth noting.

Movement: He's most active at night. We'll be working on that post delivery.

Food Cravings:  I keep eating sweets, and they always make me feel a little sick. Try, try again, I say. God forbid I not support the cake industry.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  Running is getting a little harder, but it's still doable. I would have bet I quit by this point because it seemed SO far along, but as long as I feel good, I'm going to try and keep at it. I really think it's helped with any minor aches and pains, swelling and the ability to sleep. But part of that is probably just luck.

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Just now learning what they are, for when we get a little bit closer. 

Symptoms: A little more tired than usual, but nothing my 9 p.m. bedtime can't cure.

Most looking forward to: Enjoying the holidays with my little family, and soaking up our last Christmas just the 2 (and fur child) of us.

29 Weeks

How far along? 29 weeks. 

Total weight gain: Between 16-17 pounds, depending on the day. Bring on the eggnog. 

Maternity Clothes: Yes! Leggings are my best friend, as is the full panel since I now am sporting an outie. Yikes.

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Can't get enough. 9 hours plus a nap? Don't mind if I do. My days are numbered, I know that full well. Pretty sure that's a Psalm. 

Best Moment this Week: 4D ultrasound, hands down. We debated doing one, but when the doctors office put it on special for the holidays, I couldn't resist. Now I've got a sweet little picture in my phone to show whoever will look:)

Miss anything? Not really. Sleeping on my stomach a little. 

Movement: Lots! I can feel hands and feet, and sometimes have to push them back in. Alien. 

Food Cravings:  Hot Chocolate. I bought the 60 count box at Costco this week. He'll probably come out drinking hot chocolate. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  Running, kickboxing, some weights. The 4D confirmed he is right on my bladder. Fun!

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Nothing to report.

Symptoms: . Feel pretty good! I feel very blessed to have had a great pregnancy, despite the people that tell you "oh, you just wait a few more weeks." Jeez. 

Most looking forward to: If the crib will ever come in...finishing the nursery. 

28 Weeks

Photo courtesy of our "Understanding Birth" class.

How far along? 28 weeks.

Total weight gain: 16 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  Oh yeah. So glad to be pregnant in the fall and winter. Sweaters and scarves and leggings, oh my.  

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Good sleep, lots of bathroom breaks. That about sums it up. For some reason I get SO thirsty right before I go to bed, so it’s picking a side between thirst and bathroom visits. Guess which one wins…

Best Moment this Week: Everyone is so nice when you’re pregnant! I always feel like I’m not showing as much as I am and it’s brave of them to assume I’m pregnant. Then I catch a glimpse in the mirror –not brave at all.

Miss anything? Holiday cocktails.

Movement: I’m starting to feel more rolls than kicks. Love it!

Food Cravings: I heard the first trimester symptoms come back – and I always feel a little sick after I eat, even if I’m starving and eat a normal meal. Life could be much worse.

Anything making you queasy or sick: See above. 

Exercise: Still running, kickboxing and weights. I think he’s shifted and some part of his little body is on my bladder, which makes running exciting.  

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Nothing to complain about this week.

Most looking forward to: The crib getting being delivered. I’m so ready to see the bedding out of the bag!

27 Weeks

A little behind and just posting last weeks update.

How far along? 27 weeks. Baby boy is about 15 inches long and over 2 lbs. I believe it – I can feel him stretched from side to side.

Total weight gain: 16 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  I haven’t reached the point where I’m sick of everything yet, though people assure me it’s to come. I feel like I have a whole new wardrobe – and the best kind – one that consists of  stretchy pants and just in time for the holidays!

Stretch Marks: None yet. I have noticed a slight line down my stomach. Excellent.

Sleep: Good, except for 4-5 bathroom breaks per night.

Best Moment this Week: Matt put together the Ikea dresser. I was very thankful he tackled that project and let me nap while he hammered away and Namath barked incessantly. I think I’ll keep him – verdicts still out on Namath.  

Miss anything? Not especially.

Movement: It has really picked up this week! Lots of movement from the outside as well. It’s a little alien-esque, as I had been warned. But overall, always a relief to feel him squirming around in there.

Food Cravings: Salty, and delicious coffee drinks. Probably decaf. Hot chocolate has been hitting the spot.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Eating too much. Eating too much sugar. Yet it hasn’t slowed me down from doing either.

Exercise: Still at it. I’ve avoided the swelling and a lot of discomfort so far, and I really think running has something to do with that, with a little luck sprinkled in. I found a few kickboxing YouTube videos as well to mix it up now that it’s getting super cold in the mornings.  

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Really feel very fortunate to have had an easy pregnancy so far.

Most looking forward to: Holiday breaks coming up to spend time with my little family. We’re looking forward to getting the nursery finished (me), doing some nesting (me) and a lot of couch time with the fur child.   

26 Weeks

How far along? 26 weeks. It remains in question when the third trimester begins, but we are getting close! Baby is the size of a cucumber and is continuing to put on fat. Hes inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid – essential to develop the lungs. Hell be ready to scream in no time!

Total weight gain: 15 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. I haven’t  tried a non-maternity top in a while, but I’m sure a few would still work.

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Good, except for 4-5 bathroom breaks per night.  

Best Moment this Week: Running the Vulcan 10k with baby boy!  

Miss anything? I thought I was going to die refraining from sugar an entire day before my glucose test. Oh, the humanity. Think I’m addicted?  

Movement: After running on Saturday, he was so quiet all day, it made me nervous. I asked the doctor about it at my appointment, and she said as long as he has an active hour within 24 hours, we’re good. He needs to rest too – and running probably chills him out. If only that will work come Spring… 

Food Cravings: Nothing exciting here. Salty more than sweet.

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. I haven’t  tried a non-maternity top in a while, but I’m sure a few would still work.

Stretch Marks: None yet.


Food Cravings: Nothing exciting here. Salty more than sweet.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Back to the first trimester nausea after eating. 

Exercise: Keeping it up. Trying to figure out the challenge of darkness after work – Its hard to stay motivated, so I feel like I will do best to get most of my workouts done in the morning.

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Really feel very fortunate to have had an easy pregnancy so far.

Most looking forward to: The crib arriving and getting the dresser put together. Curtains, bedding and rug are here, so it should come together quickly once the furniture gets in.  

Baby's First Race

The Vulcan Run is one of my favorite races in Birmingham. The distance doesn't require a whole lot of training, and the weather early November is always perfect for running. This year presented a few more challenges, but I knew I wanted to run this one, if all went well with the pregnancy, and then I could cruise with shorter runs and more indoor workouts for the rest of my pregnancy when it's cold and dark.

I did a little dress rehearsal the night before. I love some polka dots.

 Hard to believe this baby bump! Aren't you glad you aren't the friend I texted, "Can you see my belly button? Is that inappropriate?"

Per his usual routine, MS laid out all the breakfast supplies the night before. I simply picked the Christmas mug for size - Sunburst didn't need too much caffeine - although I treated myself to half a cup of real coffee.

The pre-race bathroom debacle. Ugh. I literally went 4 times from the time we parked at 7 and the start of the race at 8, and probably could have gone a 5th time about a mile in.

The race day adrenaline didn't fail me. It's so much more fun to run in a race, and my pace was a little quicker than what I've been posting on my solo runs. I didnt get out of breath until the last home stretch, and as soon as I crossed the finish I recovered almost immediately, so I felt like I pushed, but not too hard. That being said, my recovery has been much slower in the muscle department, so this will probably be my last longer run until I'm pushing the jogging stroller.

It felt really great to be able to check this off my list. Here's hoping all this running comes in handy around February.

It's a shame MS has no personality. But, I would be pretty pumped too if I had finished in 48 MINUTES. That's clocking out 7:40 miles. I was SUPER impressed and proud of him - it was a huge PR. I don't know if he'll want to run with me again!

Coach Grizz was pretty proud too. He loves being held like a caught fish. Can't you tell?
 

All I wanted to celebrate a good race and 3 years was to order by number at our favorite local Mexican restaurant. MS indulged me...I think I'll keep him around.

25 Weeks

How far along? 25 weeks. Or 7 months - whoa. Does that sound really far along? Baby is the size of a cauliflower, and weighs around 1.5 lbs. He knows up from down and is growing more hair!

Total weight gain: 12 pounds. Baby is growing!

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. Some maternity tops are still a little big, and some of my regular tops still fit. I have quite the selection now. 

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Saturday was a record low at 2 hours - and we were at a hotel with no Hallmark Channel. It was tough finding something to watch. I suffered through an entire episode of Love It or List it where they didn't decide to Love It or List it. It only added to my exasperation. 

Best Moment this Week: MS getting to feel Sunburst kick. I think he was really excited! 

Miss anything? Nope. Loving getting ready for our boy! 

Movement: I feel him a lot! I try not to be a little bitter I don't think I feel him quite as much because of the anterior placenta, just happy he's healthy and moving around! 

Food Cravings: Salt salt salt. Me and the Morton girl are BFF. I'm thinking of inviting her to my baby shower. 

Anything making you queasy or sick: Back to the first trimester nausea after eating. 

Exercise: Still going pretty strong. Enjoyed my last evening run downtown while daylight allows.

Gender: All blue! 

Labor signs: Negative. 

Symptoms: The sciatic pain all but disappeared. I don't know if it is luck or the PT or a combination- but what a relief! 

Most looking forward to: Putting his nursery together. Now that all the big decisions are made and ordered, it's going to be fun seeing it all put together and putting on the finishing touches.