Almost February

Wow, it's almost February. Michael and I will be celebrating our three year wedding anniversary. For those who don't know, my husband and I were married on Valentines Day. We were married in Germany, where we were stationed. I'm not sure what we plan on doing. I heard from a friend about this thing called messageinabottle.com Check it out. I'm thinking about going with that. It's cute, romantic, and unique. I don't know. I just want to go all out. This will be our last anniversary as a "couple". I want to do something very special. Last year we went to Berlin. I don't know if anything can top that lol. Especially if you saw where we stayed. I know whatever I do he will love it, and I know I will love whatever he does for me. On my birthday just the card he picked out and what he wrote made me cry. I believe it's the littlest things that count. I don't really care what we do, as long as we are doing it together.

I am 31 weeks as of last Friday. Time is flying. Still have so much to do and get. I have attached a video of Nora (yes, this is her name. Nora Taylor to be exact) moving around. Skip forward to about 1:08 mark.

Just updating

It's been nearly two weeks since my last update. I guess I could say it's been somewhat eventful. We are now being seen every two weeks. Our last appointment was on the the 4th. I had my glucose test, which I passed by the way. Then we saw the doctor, and just talked a bit. I told him I had been having braxton hicks contractions, on and off for the past 3 or so weeks. He said as long as I'm not getting more than 6 in an hour, then I should be fine. Well wouldn't you know, I ended up in labor and delivery that night for having way more than 6 in an hour, and they were actually regularly patterned. They went from 5 to 2 minutes a part. I tried walking, drinking more water ( even though I drink nearly 7 or more glasses a day) and I took a nice warm shower. The shower seemed to slow them down, but I was not taking any chances. We went ahead and went to L&D. I was hooked up to the monitors and they watched me for about an hour. Then the nurse came in and said I was having a few mild contractions and gave me a shot to stop them. Honestly, I wish she had told me more about this shot. I am pretty sure I know what it was ( now ) and it has not been approved by the FDA. I know she was only doing her job, but the only thing she told me would happen would be the my heart rate would go up, as would the babys. However, I found a ton of info on the shot that actually scares me. Next time they offer it ( god forbid ) I will not be taking it. There are just too many possible side effects. Anyways, while I was hooked up to the monitors, she got the hiccups. It was the funniest thing. At first I did not know what it was, and then it dawned on me; she was having the hiccups. I couldn't stop laughing. And it's a funny sound when you're laughing, while hooked up to a heart monitor. The nurse came in and gave me a weird look ( out of confusion ) and I told her the baby was having hiccups. I got real quiet so she could hear, and she's like " oh my gosh she is lol" Soo cute. Anyways, long story short, we are fine. It was an adventure.

Michael and I have decided on a name. I pray we don't change it, but I honestly like it, and he does too. He chose the first name.. well he came up with it I mean. Nora. I chose Lynn for a middle name. The original plan was to have her middle name be Lenora, after my great grandmother. However, it has been a struggle finding a name that not only flows well with Lenora, but isn't overly used. So it's still Lenora, just backwards lol.

I have not been getting much sleep. I will go to sleep for about 3 maybe 4 hours and wake up feeling as though I've slept the whole night, and then end up sleeping during the day. It's annoying. Not to mention I have developed severe restless leg syndrome. I also get it in my arms from time to time. It's awful, and sadly there is nothing I can do about it. So that too keeps me awake. Walking around is the only thing that helps, and that is awful when all you want to do is sleep. They say only 15-20% of pregnant women will develope RLS. Of course I fall into this 15-20% lol. Oh well.

Well, I should get going. My mind is racing and I'm pretty tired. Ciao!

Happy New Year 2010!

For some it isn't so pleasent. I hope those of you who are going through personal issues, are able to find solice so you can enjoy the year. I know some of you have been going through a lot. Be it illness or just rotten luck. I hope this year is better!

Michael and I had a relaxing night at home. I made cheese pretzels which were deeeeelish. He bought himself a bottle of sparkling wine, and I sipped on some welches sparkling white grape "wine", and we watched the ball drop. Also, I had no clue getting a kiss for new year was tradition, or good luck. Am I allowed to have one now? Does it still count?

Anyways, I don't really have a new years resolution. I prefer to just go with the flow. I can make goals any time of year. I'm excited, and nervous, about what the new year holds for me. This baby will definitely be the highlight lol. I was reminded I only have 12 more weeks.. that isn't much time. I am so nervous about becoming a first time mom. It's still just so.. surreal to me. Almost as if I cannot wake myself up to remind myself.. 'hello this is real, and it will become even more real in a few short weeks'. I think my biggest concern, actually it is, is that I won't be a good mother. Why am I thinking like that? I have wanted this for so long, and now I'm beyond terrified. It's a whole new ball game when you're the one that is expecting a baby.

If I hear one more person comment on how big I am, I'm going to drop kick them. I do not need to be reminded of my weight, thank you. It's rude. Please stop. No shit, I'm 7 months pregnant and only 5'1". I hate even going in public now, because people will purposely turn around to stare at me. I had some woman and her husband turn around and almost giggle at me. I asked them if they had a staring problem, but obviously it wasn't loud enough for them to hear me. The rude stares and the just staring me down in general really upset me. Yes, I'm pregnant. No, this is not a beer belly I'm sporting. It's one thing to look at me and smile, with a sincere smile, it's another to look at me like I'm a cow, or an unwed teenaged mother. This mainly happens in Walmart, and last time I checked their were funnier looking characters walking around that place. People with their teeth missing, people who are over 300 pounds wearing mini skirts, people not wearing shoes.. The list goes on and on. It's just plain annoying and rude. I'm starting to believe "southern hospitality" doesn't really exsist.

It's a new year, I shouldn't be complaining already. Though, if you know me, you know I don't do much without complaining. It gets me through my days.

I hope 2010 is a wonderful year for all of us. I hope it brings you everything you could possibly want and more. I guess if I had to pick a new years resolution; it would be to live life now, rather than worrying about the past and the future. That is really hard for me. Not unrealistic though.

Happy New Year!

2009 is nearing an end.

So, Christmas is over for another year. It came and went pretty quickly. It wasn't chaotic, really. We got some really nice things from family. My father in law and his wife sent us some nice things for the baby. We also got a really nice canvas photo of the Big Ben (they are stationed in England). Michael got a cheese and meat kit from his uncle Craig. We've definitely been munching on all of it. Anybody who sends food for a gift is a great uncle/friend lol. My secret santa sent me a 5 pack of receiving blankets for the baby and the thermometer I was wanting as well. It is universal. It has three attachments. One for underarm, oral, and well.. the one place nobody likes having their temperature taken lol. Michael's mom gave me some money for my birthday and some for Michael for Christmas. We are going out tomorrow to do some shopping. Michael's grandma and grandpa Wind sent me me a bath and body works set. And some home made goodies, which I ate in just about one sitting lol. food is really the way to my heart, especially whilst pregnant. Michael took me out on my birthday to Applebees. It was delicious. He also got me a beautiful jewelry box and a beautiful card to go along with it. Gizmo had a prety good Christmas too. He got a cute little stocking from my mom. It is shaped like a bone and has a place on the front where you can insert a picture, which we did. He got three toys from 'Santa Paws', and was definitely pleased with them. He wears himself out playing. He tries so hard to play with all three at the same time. My little multi-tasker. We all had a wonderful Christmas.

We had a guy from Michael's shop over for Christmas dinner. Michael helped so much the night before and Christmas day, bless his heart. The night before we made cheese balls, which turned out fabulous. I think Michael was pretty pleased about his cheese ball. We made one with pecans coating the outside, and he made his own, without. Both was so good. The next morning, I woke up at about 8, and made the brownies. I sprinkled powdered sugar over top of them to make them a little more "Christmasy". For dinner, I made Home made baked mac and cheese, ham, mashed potatoes, and yeast rolls. Everything turned out so well. We all hung out, ate, and watched a Myth Busters marathon. Neither of them seemed too adamant about watching Christmas movies lol. Oh well, I guess.

Also, Michael's grandpa Gribble suffered a heart attack last week, but thankfully he is okay. He was home just in time for Christmas. We love you guys! Get well soon.

I am now in my third and FINAL trimester. Some say between 26 and 28 weeks, but I'll say 27. It's in the middle, so it's perfect lol. I seem to get bigger everyday. I also believe the baby is head down now, which is where I am hoping she stays.

On the symptoms front: I have been having braxton hicks contractions just about everyday. I was getting 4 or 5 in one day. Which is normal, but that doesn't mean they are comfortable! My fatigue seems to be getting worse as well. I really haven't been too tired my whole pregnancy. I didn't experience fatigue in the beginning of my pregnancy like most women do. So, I guess I'm making up for it now. I have been experiencing a lot of heart palpitations the last few days. I know this can be normal for pregnant women, but with my anxieties, I definitely will be talking with my OB about it. Maybe an EKG wouldn't be a bad idea. I'd rather not chance anything. And last, but not least; SWELLING! My hands and feet have been swelling more than they ever really have. I drink plenty of water, so there isn't much more I can do. I pray these aren't the early staged of preeclampsia, because I am still having headaches and nausea. That too is worth mentioning when I see the doctor next Monday. I have my gestational diabetes test that day as well. I hope I pass.

Well, suppose I should get going. I'm going to eat what's left of the mashed potatoes and head to bed soon. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and have a happy new year.

Tis the season to be jolly

So much has been going on the last two weeks. Lot's of sadness in the family. It's just hard to be "jolly" when there are so many people around you hurting. It puts me in a depressed state of mind. I REALLY hope 2010 brings new beginnings for all of us.

Anyways, so updates on me; nothing new really. I have been super tired since 24 weeks. I recently started experiencing Braxton hicks contractions. I know they had probably been happening before, but I can actually feel them now. Some aren't that bad, others can be quite uncomfortable. It feels like.. when you eat too much and you get a stomach ache. You can feel your stomach tighten. That part is pretty neat, but the discomfort.. not so much.

So, we are getting ready for Christmas. I'm making a Sara Lee Ham, Home baked macaroni and cheese, and Mashed potatoes. I am making a cheese ball.. well log on Christmas eve. My first ever. I got the recipe from a family member. That will be to munch on on Christmas day. For dessert, I'm making brownies. It's tough to make something sweet that Michael actually likes. So, I'm making the chocolate chunk kind and sprinkling powdered sugar over them. Hoping it turns out how I want.

Well, that's about it for now. Happy Holidays to you and yours.

Doctor update

We had our monthly appointment on Monday. I guess I forgot to update on that. It wasn't all the interesting honestly. In fact, I felt rushed. Which I don't like. I really don't care if they were busy, this was MY appointment. Michael didn't go in with me because he was still pretty sore from having his wisdom teeth removed. So, he stayed in the car. While I have sympathy for him, it still kind of made me mad he didn't feel like coming in. Then again, I've never had my wisdom teeth removed.

The doctor and I discussed a birth plan. While I know it is not legally binding, there is no reason they can't follow it if there is nothing preventing them from doing so. Plus, it's not like I'm asking for anything outrageous. I am just trying to make this as personal as possible. I believe the labor and birthing experience should be as personal and relaxing as possible. And yes, we plan on going "au naturale" No pain medication. Using natural pain management such as: Breathing techniques, massage, and a birthing ball.

I know I WILL WANT drugs throughout the proccess, it will ultimately be my will power that determines this. No, I have no problem with getting the drugs really. I know it can be benifcial for some. I just want to try doing things naturally at first. Women have been having babies for centuries without pain meds. I'm also not knocking women who do this. It's a personal decision.

We are not able to attend a Lamaze class. So, I found a DVD called, 'Laugh and Learn About Childbirth". It is probably the top selling Lamaze DVD out there. I got to see the first half for free and the woman who instructs it, really makes it fun to learn. She is funny too. She covers all aspects, including C-sections. I plan on buying the birthing ball sometime soon. For those of you who are pregnant, I really reccomend you check out the website, laughandlearn.com The DVd is 40 dollars, but we found it on Amazon for 14.95 brand new! So, be sure to do your research before you pay full price. It is a 4 hour long DVD.

I would be pretty heartbroken if I couldn't give birth naturally. If I had to have a c-section, fine, I know no matter how she comes into the world, I will love her just the same, but I really hope to give birth the way god intended lol. I mean thank god for c-sections, but I believe it takes away from the birthing experience. Some women actually prefer to have a c-section. WHY?! They cut through muscle and it is nearly impossible to get that tight again. Who want's saggy skin? Plus, it's surgery, and anything could happen. Don't get me started..

Oh, P.S. My morning sickness is back! BLEH!

Happy Holidays

I have needed to update for quite some time now. I've just been too lazy I guess. We really enjoyed our Thanksgiving in Georgia. I definitely bonded well with everybody. Their hospitality was very genuine and they made Michael and I feel right at home. I look forward to visiting with them again.

Lets see.. I'm now 24 weeks and 5 days. The baby kicks me almost all the time, and a couple nights ago, right before Michael and I went to sleep, he got to feel the baby kick for the first time! I was so happy. Then, she didn't want to stop lol. Silly already.

Michael and I are staying home for Christmas. We are inviting one of his friends from work to spend Christmas Day with us. Nobody should be alone for the holidays. Plus, it gives me a reason to prepare a huge meal.

My birthday is also coming up. The 23rd of December to be exact. Which would make it about two weeks away. This year has gone by so quickly. In a lot of ways I'm glad, because I think this year has been one of the worst. I've gone through so much this year. Excluding the miracle of this pregnancy, because it is indeed a miracle, but it's just been a hell of a year.

Gizmo has recently been sick. He was hospitalized for a day, due to Pancreatitis. He had been real lethargic for a couple days. He wasn't eating one of those days; at all. He would barely drink any water, and had a small bout of diarrhea in the house. A couple days later he was throwing up and I said this is the last straw, something is wrong. Thankfully we have a vet clinic right across the street. So, I took him over there. I never anticipated he would be as sick as his diagnosis. I thought maybe it was just a viral thing, but he was very sick. We caught it early enough to get him better though. He is now on a prescription diet and just took his last bit of medication today. He seems a lot better, which is wonderful. It costed us over 300 dollars to get him better. It was worth it. He will now be a low fat diet for the rest of his life. He isn't happy about this, but as long as he is healthy that is all that matters.

Anyway, I should get going. Here is a picture of our Christmas tree. It is half lit. We can't seem to find the bulb that is out. When we actually have money we will get a fuse finder. Until then it's a half lit tree. Which isn't so bad. Happy holidays all.