Week 37: Ready or not!!!

Size of Baby: winter melon. whatever that is... he's full term!!!

What's that Babe up to: practicing inhaling & exhaling.. and apparently he needs the practice since he gets the hiccups EVERY DAY! also practicing sucking, gripping, and blinking!!! Cool.
Symptoms: ankle, foot, and hand swelling... to the extremes. Also back pain, sciatic pain, shoulder pain. On a positive note... my arches don't bother me NEAR like they used to!!!!! I think it's because they are so swollen....

Food cravings or aversions: nada
Weight: 203
Weight gain so far: There it is folks.. I've reached 200 and beyond. That's 55 lbs gained so far. Anyone remember what it was 2 weeks ago??? (more on that below)
Stretch Marks: definitely earning my stripes.

Sleep: it is what it is. and it isn't great.
Best moment this week: My doctor checkup on Tuesday.
Miss Anything: my ankles, my hands, my sleep. Being able to get a massage while lying on my stomach.

Movement: he's an active little guy.... still kicking my ribs
Maternity Clothes: most of them don't fit anymore....
Belly Button: half out, half in
Wedding Rings: no way
Looking Forward To: Friday when I get checked again!

Journal:

Oh boy... He is coming soon. But before we get to my exciting dr appt, let's back up to last Friday. Andrews and I went on a little "we're about to be parents date." First we went to Target to make a return and pick up some other things. I found myself a button down sleep shirt for the hospital, a nursing tank top, and a nursing bra. Of course I didn't feel like trying it on at the store so once we got home I tried it on and wowza.... Too small. I obviously have no idea how big my boobs actually are. Oops. Well anyway, after Target we ate a delicious dinner at Texas Roadhouse... Andrews favorite, and definitely one of my top restaurants. Then..... We went to Babies R Us. We were given some gift cards for there, and had some returns to make. So we made the returns, got it all loaded on the gift cards and went shopping! We got lots of little necessities, and a high chair and a swing. It was SO fun. I'm so glad Andrew was there to help make decisions. He also kept track of our spending. We had it almost to the cent of the gift card balance when we went to check out. But then I also had some KILLER coupons! So we ended up still having money left over. I couldn't believe it. We had just bought an overfilled cart full of supplies and we didn't pay for a dime of it. We felt so incredibly blessed. I know that is not the case for so many people... Babies are expensive, and I'm not saying we won't be spending a lot of our own money the rest of this kids life, but what a blessing to have the start up with so much help! So.... THANK YOU! We are so grateful to all our friends and family who have helped us out so much. Praise The Lord!

I should tell the mobile story... Or do I want to forget it.... Hmm... Nah. So after we finished at the register, Andrew went outside to get it all loaded into the car, and I asked about ordering a mobile that I had registered for that wasn't in the store. It was a cute mobile... Circus animals with pennants and everything. So I go to the registry desk and she looks it up online first. Their internet was SUPER SLOW. Amazingly slow. Finally it comes up and she can't order it online either. So then she checks to see if other stores have it. ONE store has ONE in stock. I was like shoot! Let's get it! So she called the store and after what must have been a billion rings someone answered. She told them about it and said to make sure it's the right one, and that I was going to place a phone order for it. Then she had to explain what a phone order was because the lady on the phone was clueless. This was taking forever and I think it was about this time that Andrew texted me from the car... Ok let's go! So then I get the phone to give her my address. She didn't understand an address on a state route. She's like so I can put st r 2? I was like uh sure, you can do state route 2 (just like I said) or you can put st rt 2 or you can even do s r 2... It all works. Oh... And I said the 5 numbers of our house like 5 times REALLY  slow. Painfully slow. Had to spell my town name (which is understandable) but really slow, and my zip.... REALLY slow.....ly.  It was so painful then she said she was going to go up to the register and put me on hold. I was on hold for what seemed like forever and then she comes back on and asked for the gift card number and pin so I gave that to her pausing between each number for 2 seconds, then she says ok I'm going to go up to the register now. I'm thinking what?!?!?! Why are you not there already? What have you been doing?!  So back on hold and Andrews freaking out from the car and the kind associate I was with at the store said she could finish the order or me so I could go. Bless her soul. So I left. Andrew said he was waiting in the car for 35 minutes for this order. Ok let me say this too... The mobile was originally $75. It was on sale for $16. Our gift card was for almost the exact amount. It was the only mobile I found online that I really liked. I couldn't order it from home, so it was then or never. Or both..... My phone rings as we are on the way home and it's the SLOW lady from the other store saying the connection was lost with the store we were just at but she realized that it wasn't the same mobile. It was a completely different one and the best she could do for me was give me 15% off. The $75 price. Are you freaking kidding me. No. I don't want that mobile. No not with 15% off either. Yes cancel the order. Yes completely, I don't want that mobile with teddy bears on it. What. A. Waste. Of.  Time. So needless to say, we will not have a mobile for the crib. Which is just fine. 

That was a long story. Lisa and Meghan would probably say it's in typical Brittany fashion. Sorry about that. ;)

Ooook. So Saturday comes with another snow storm so my MIL didn't come over to help me get things done around the house and Andrew was in Indiana for a tool sale so I just did little things here and there and took naps and such like. Sunday, church was closed and Andrew and I had a real snow day to ourselves! He stayed inside with me all day long. This is quite the rarity. In fact, the only time I can remember that happening! Haha! It was a fun day. Then Monday we had another snow day, but he wasn't about to stay inside 2 days in a row. I got the other side of the room with the nursery cleaned up... That would be my craft room/guest room... And that felt nice to finish. Or almost finish. 

And that brings us to Tuesday.....

But first... I want to share what was going through my head all week and especially Tuesday morning. I knew I was getting my group b strep test on Tuesday and I read that if you have it, all it means is that you get an antibiotic when you're delivering. No biggie. Um.... That's an IV antibiotic. I am terrified of needles, and an IV is seriously something I'd love to go my whole life without. I had one when I got my 3rd molars out but it knocked me out so much I couldn't freak out about it. I would have to be awake and moving if I got this antibiotic IV! Seriously, it's the moving part. If they could stick me  and I could ignore it and not move a muscle so I forget it's there I would be fine. But if I have to move my arm with something sticking out of it.... Oh lordie..... Makes me sick. Ok now you understand my fear there. Well that was one fear. Then you all know about my fear of needing a cesarean. Which, btw, really brought out a lot of comments and encouragement from people who have had them. I give you all a HUGE thank you for your kind words and your assurance that it is nothing to be feared. I appreciate that so much. I still fear it more than an IV, though, and I'm sure that's nothing to be feared either. As you've seen my swelling has also gotten much worse... Side note.... I was just sitting cross legged on my bed and had to move because my foot was falling asleep wherever my legs and ankles crossed is now a huge indentation... And I can see and feel my bones!! They are still there! But moving all that fluid elsewhere is quite painful, so now that hurts. Haha! Ok back to fears. My swelling is continually getting worse and I started worrying about pre-eclampsia. My dr hasn't been concerned about my swelling at all stating that she's keeping an eye on it. Well then I'm watching Downton Abbey and poor Cybil (sp?) dies of eclampsia. I didn't really know what it was but the I saw it. So I ask my friend about pre-eclampsia since she's a nurse and she had it.... She was rested  and monitored and eventually induced and given an epidural to keep her bp low. Ooooooooooook..... Now if I don't like IVs, imagine my feelings towards an epidural needle. NO THANK YOU! 

So Tuesday morning I'm having my usual FaceTime chats with my sister and her daughters and I start telling her all about these fears. This sister of mine is a problem solver. Sometimes I really really appreciate that about her. She will literally always come up with ways to solve my problems. If you are like me, you realize that sometimes you don't want your problem solved, you want someone to just listen to your problems and let them be. More recently, I've appreciated the problem solving more... Well, she kept crossing off my fears like they were nothing to be feared and I'll be fine and I won't care about anything except getting that baby out of me etc etc..... So I had to back her up. Sister. First, when you're trying to help someone with their fears you can't just cross them off like a list.... You have to first acknowledge that they are real fears! So then she re-evaluated her problem solving and came up with a much more pleasing solution to me. She said to write them all on post its and put them somewhere visible. Then they are still there if they need to be worried about. (She was saying that I was borrowing trouble.) and then if it became a valid fear, like... You have group b strep, or you have pre-eclampsia, or you're going to need a c section, then you have have the post it and worry about it then. Or if you find out you don't..... Then you can throw it away! I didn't end up doing any of this, but I liked the idea. It calmed me down. 

Now, back to Tuesday morning....

I ran out of my homemade reduced sugar granola for breakfast and all I had was peanut butter cocoa puffs and raisin bran for cereals, which is what I typically have. But the raisin bran made me fail my urine test the last time and I wasn't in the mood to be stabbed so I knew I had to eat a good breakfast. So I made a scrambled egg, toast, PLAIN yogurt, and two peach slices. I am still so proud of that breakfast. I've never eaten so balanced so early in the morning. Protein, dairy, fruit, and carb. 

Bravo, I passed my urine test that day! I was so pleased. However...... The other two things they check every time were less than stellar. That would be my weight, and my blood pressure.

I gained 8 lbs in 2 weeks. Apparently my doctor thought that was a little much, especially this late in the game. Especially since my swelling was also more severe. Especially since my bp was 142/90 or something like that, and I was sweating like a fat monkey. It's been really high like that before but when they recheck it it's way low again... Well she rechecked it again and it was higher. Oh boy. So she talked to me about pre-eclampsia and said that once you start getting it you can't really do anything about it except deliver the baby. Uhhhh..... Will I need a c section? Nope, we will just induce you to get things going. Ok, leave that post it for an emergency but definitely not holding on to it now. Clutching that pre-eclampsia post it with my fat fists... Totally forgot about the antibiotic IV post it. Ohhhh btw..... I am 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. Ok.... After she told me what that means and then with the bp thing and the induction, I'm thinking... Wait a second here..... What's going on. So she tells me that she's going to send me down to the women's center (where I will deliver) to be monitored to see if my bp comes down. I said what does it mean if it does and if it doesn't? She said, if it doesn't come down we will induce you and get you a baby. Um. *raised eyebrows to the roof* ooooooook? Oo that's exciting... I could have a baby today! Then I said ok so if it comes down, and everything is fine, is it still a possibility that I will go late? (I asked bc my sister warned me that even if I was dilated that doesn't mean he's coming soon, people are dilated for weeks) and she definitely not. Then I asked if she thought I would make it to my due date... The 19th? She said no... I will get him out of there before then.... I'm hoping to get another week out of you. And then that was it. End of appointment. Um. Um. Um. Wait what is today? January 28th?!? Nooo... That's too early. I don't want a January baby. Shoot. No. That's too early.... Mom won't be back for 2 more weeks! 2 more weeks and she wants one more out of me? Nooooo that means mom isn't going to be here!!!!!! I need more post-its!!!!! 

Soon my way to the women's center I call Andrew and tell him he better get ready to be a dad. Freaked him out a little, since he wasn't.... And filled him in. Texted my sister and she said I guess you can grab that post it.... I didn't tell her I made more. Jk as I was laying on the bed all hooked up I let go of almost all those post its... I felt good that my dr didn't know about any of them.... She will still think I'm flexible and easy going. Because when it comes down to it... If she says you're going to need an IV I won't even say a word, except to the nurse when I tell her I'm afraid of needles so just do it and don't talk about it. If she says I know you don't want an epidural but you either need that or a c section I will say ok give it to me. If she says we're going to have to do a c section to get him out of there or you or he will die, I will say get him out let's do this. I don't generally ever question authority.... To their faces. So I will seem very tough and easy going. Ha! Anyway. Obviously you didn't hear about a baby so my bp came down.

Work on Wednesday was significantly harder... Things are changing.... And I found it quite difficult to walk, and impossible without a waddle. It appears the office is trying to wean me out, since I'm only working a half day today. I'm so ok with that. 

I go back to the women's center on Friday to get monitored again. I assume it will be the same situation. If it's normal I will go back home and sing praises that I won't be having a January baby, and if it's high, Andrew will scurry on over and we will get the little guy out of me and into the world. *pardon me here, as I have yet another freak out moment.* Then I'll have another dr appt on Tuesday and get rechecked and see what happens next! Haha of course, for some reason we have a very important office meeting on Tuesday morning and I have patients in the afternoon.... So I guess I have to try to move that dr appt to not miss the meeting, and move my pts to the other hygienists.... Wouldn't it be funny if I went to that meeting that I apparently can't miss, then go to the dr and be told hey  you're gonna have a baby today (or tomorrow). That would be funny.

So needless to say, Tuesday night Andrew and I kicked our butts in high gear and finished packing our hospital bags and got the car seat bases installed in each of our cars and the car seat in mine. I made my quick grab list of things that I still use every day but want in the hospital too, and every time I leave the house I leave prepared to go to the hospital. I thought I had 3 more weeks.... I guess this little guy didn't want to listen and wait for his grandma and grandpa to come back in the country...

Aren't you excited to see what my 38 week post says?!?! Who knows, maybe everything will be fine and I'll go to 39 weeks. That would be great... Mom and dad come home at 39 weeks. :)

Week 36: He Dropped!

Size of Baby: honeydew... 6-7 lbs

What's that Babe up to: being big and getting bigger!
Symptoms: ankle, foot, and hand swelling. Still having bloody noses, back pain, sciatic pain, shoulder pain.

Food cravings or aversions: nothing... Although my appetite has greatly diminished since my stomach must be squished! I stared at my burger and corn casserole for a good 15 minutes before I had the energy and desire to eat it. I almost finished it..
Weight: 195
Weight gain so far: 47 lbs
Stretch Marks: yeppers, and getting more!

Sleep: Not QUITE as bad this week, since Andrew and I started sleeping in separate beds again... makes me sad, but it's just more practical!
Best moment this week: taking TWO baths!!!
Miss Anything: my ankles, my hands, my sleep. Being able to get a massage while lying on my stomach.

Movement: he's an active little guy....
Belly Button: half out, half in
Wedding Rings: no way
Looking Forward To: My Dr appt on Tuesday when I get to see if I'm "progressing" at all!

Journal:
Last weekend we had our communications class in Indy, which went very well, but my favorite part of the trip was the fact that we had a bathtub in our hotel room. We somehow ended up getting an upgrade to the VIP floor with access to the VIP lounge where we had free drinks and snacks and such like. It was a pregnant woman's dream. But the bathtub was still better. It was just a normal small sized one but for someone who never gets to sit in a tub it was quite luxurious!!! The second night I was so tired I fell asleep while soaking. I loved it. I need a bathtub in my life.

Sunday night was probably the worst night of sleep yet, for both of us. I woke up just an hour after going to bed and then proceeded to wake up EVERY HOUR or more. Andrew also woke up most of those times too. I just felt funny, the baby was moving funnily, and I couldn't get comfortable... not to mention the times I had to pee too. (Monday night I started sleeping in the spare bed, which is going much better.) Monday morning I got up to go to work and still felt different, like more stiff and sore and just.... different. It hit me once I was walking waddling at work, why everything was different... THE BABY DROPPED!!! Oh he sure did. I feels like I'm carrying a bowling ball super-low. I can actually feel space around my ribs, not just a hard baby. I don't run out of breath when I'm talking and eating as much as I used to run out of breath. My ribs are still sore, but they are constantly being attacked like they were before. So wonderful. However.... now I have hip and pelvis soreness, sciatic pain shooting down my leg that temporarily paralyzes (or collapses) me, and my lower back has become more sore with sharper pain. I take it all as to mean, we must be getting closer... he's getting ready to come out the right way.

I'm still afraid of having to have a C-section. OH MY... I almost forgot. Sunday night's sleep/lack there of  included a NIGHTMARE to process. I had a dream that Andrew and I went to the hospital and that was the last thing I remembered. I came out of my coma at home and realized I wasn't pregnant anymore. I asked in a panic if I had a c-section. I told him I didn't remember anything and that he had to tell me everything. Then I asked him if they fixed my knee (?) while I was out and I pulled up my pants to see a bar sticking out of my bones, holding it at a 90 degree angle. I started freaking out and told him he better tell me everything that happened. I did indeed have a c-section and the baby did not make it. Then I woke up. Tell me this, how do you have a good day when you have a restless night of sleep topped off with a dream that your baby died during a caesarean. It took lots of praise songs and prayers to get me to work that day.

Let's discuss my swelling once more. It's gotten progressively worse. My feet and hands are the worst, and my shins are even showing some pitting edema as well. How exciting. I like to take pictures of the swelling and post them online so everyone can see how gross my body is becoming. It's humorous to me. However, I've realized it's caused quite a concern for some who see it.... especially those in the medical profession. Rest assured, my blood pressure is good, and minimal protein is showing in my urine. My doctor is aware of the swelling and of everyone's concerns, but she has assured me that it is fine, and we will keep an eye on it at each appointment. Something tells me I should take that picture of my foot along.... just in case she's not realizing the fullness of the swelling.... no pun intended. ha! My hand swelling has caused carpal tunnel in my right hand, which as a hygienist is quite unfortunate. I have no feeling in the fingertips of my right hand, except my pinky, which is, of course, the only finger I don't use for work. I rely heavily on my ultrasonic scaler to remove most everything, since my tactile sensitivity is not up to snuff when it comes to handscaling. I used to wear size Small gloves. I moved up to Mediums a little while ago, but my right hand started cramping in those, so now I'm in Large gloves for my right hand. They had to be special ordered... I officially have the biggest hands of the office. In fact, I think I have the biggest EVERYTHING 

my swollen hand: engagement ring cutting off circulation to pinky finger!

trying to show how swollen my hands are. 

pretty obvious how swollen my feet are!

Week 35: So sore, so done.

Size of Baby: coconut... a really big one

What's that Babe up to: being big.
Symptoms: ankle, foot, and hand swelling... carpal tunnel in my right hand. still have bloody noses and sleepless nights

Food cravings or aversions: none
Weight: 195.
Weight gain so far: 47 lbs. woooo  weeee! 
Stretch Marks: sure do! did I mention they appeared in one day?

Sleep: not getting much at night, naps are a necessity!
Best moment this week: washing and folding my baby's clothes. Don't think this was a bad week because that was my highlight..... that truly was exciting. OH WAIT... no- getting the nursery all set up with the changing table, dresser, and all that... THAT was the best moment... walking up the stairs after it was all placed just so and the big feeling of joy and satisfaction it brought to my heart.
Miss Anything: my ankles, my hands.

Movement: oh yes, i love feeling the little feet sticking out.... except when they are in my ribs, of course
Belly Button: partially out!
Wedding Rings: no way
Looking Forward To: my next appointment when I get to see if I'm "progressing" at all...

so big, I have to layer the tanks!

This past week I had another doctor appointment. I had the same nurse I had that time I failed the urine test. She must be bad luck (though she's my favorite) because I failed my urine test again. My blood sugar was 115 which she said wasn't terrible. This time my breakfast of choice was 2 bowls of Raisin Bran. Curse the processed cereals!! (I actually made my own granola later that day in protest.) I told the nurse that I thought Raisin Bran would be better than Lucky Charms (the culprit last time) and her and the Dr. got a good kick out of that. (I was being serious, but apparently that's funny.) Anyway- my BP was also high initially: 144/78. After she poked my finger she took it again and it was 102/70. Seems to me that's a pretty big change- that little finger prick must have released a lot of pressure! (I kid-- I know that's not how it works) Anyway- my doctor comes in with a med student and the first thing I asked was- "Am I going to have a big baby?" I asked because of my sugar. She just laughed. I looked a the student and said- "She's laughing, that means yes." She then said it's a good possibility. After measuring my belly she said the number (I don't remember what it was) and I asked what that meant, and she said without hesitation, "That he's big." UGH. His heart rate was high and eventually settled down to 142. Maybe he doesn't like being called big. I kid again. I told her my pulse is always at least 100 (normal is 60-100) even at rest, so maybe he gets it from me. Is a fast pulse a sign of being really out of shape?? I wonder... So anyway.... I made some whines about not wanting a big baby and that I was big. I was 9lb 3oz. chubba wubba. My doctor said I should expect to have a 9-10 pound baby. I gave her some nasty looks and said I don't want a C-section. She assured me that I didn't have to have one, but that we might get an ultrasound later on to see just how big he is. Do I really want to know??? My prayer has now become- LORD, please give me a long baby with a small head. We ended the appointment talking about cloth diapers and wipes and I appreciated the support and excitement she shared with me on that. It was a good appointment, even if slightly disheartening. Oh! and by the way, she is unconcerned about my massive swelling... mainly because my blood pressure is good (?) and my urine is free from protein (except for a little, which she said was normal) She also said she would be more concerned if there was swelling in my face. HELLO! my face is HUGE! Have you seen my nose lately?!? haha! Apparently, it's not as obvious to her as it is to me. That's ok. I'm glad everything is still ok. Someday I will have ankles again. :)

doesn't even show it's true nastiness

BTW, this twitching in my stomach is really annoying..... Oh right, that's my little boy with the hiccups. Bet he learned that from me! Should I try to scare him? hehe

So I saved a list of things you should have for your baby a long time ago and recently came across it. Nice timing, I know. So I printed it out and took inventory of all the things we have. Let me just tell you... lists are nice. Sometimes you forget obvious things. Like pants, for instance. Apparently our child needs to wear pants, and not just cute onesies. Nice reminder, since all I have are cute onesies, and NO pants! haha! It's not like it will be the dead of winter when he's born... oh wait, yes it is. Lists are good. They should never be underestimated in their power. :) I went to Goodwill and bought 15 items of clothing for the little guy.... I think about 7 pants. Did I mention that my doctor instructed me to not buy any newborn clothes or diapers? How terribly sad. Those clothes are just so much cuter the smaller they are! I guess a potentially good outcome could be that we use our cloth diapers sooner if they fit sooner! haha!

A friend at church stated that I for sure dropped in the last week. I laughed and said, I surely did not! He still feels like he's sitting on top of my belly squishing my ribs and making me lose my breath way too easily. It doesn't feel like he's dropped. A source did tell me that this is the week he may drop. I hope he does- I'd like to breathe again, even if I do have to pee more. Then I thought today- my doctor felt his head and she was feeling really low... maybe he did drop.... AND HE'S JUST LONG?!?!?!?! That would be amazing.... with a small head. I still don't think so, but I'll ask her at my next appointment. I wish I had one every week now, but since I always go the day before my new week, I have to wait 2 weeks one more time. I go the 28th and then every week after that... I think he's coming soooooooon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Okie Dokie... My shoulder is SCREAMING to go to bed, so I shall listen. Tomorrow I leave with my office team to take a class on communication in Indy this weekend. I'm not particularly looking forward to the drive and discomfort of not my home, but do enjoy hotels and eating out, so... shouldn't be too bad! :) I packed some epsom salts, hoping for a soak in the bathtub!!!!!!! (I promise, I won't make it too hot, as tempting as that would be)

Goodnight!

Week 34: Gender Reveal!

My baby's future nanny. ;)

Size of Baby: butternut squash. I know what that is... and that's big. (I found out what a durian is too, thanks Nadene! and apparently that's not a nice comparison)

What's that Babe up to: peeing a pint a day.... where does that go??? and able to recognize and react to simple songs. So I guess I should be singing the same songs over and over again?
Symptoms: ankle, foot, and hand swelling, sleepless nights- thus fatigued days, frequent urination

Food cravings or aversions: none
Weight: 192.
Weight gain so far: let's not talk about it today.
Stretch Marks: this was the week folks. Andrew found them for me, since I can't see them myself (without a mirror) But yes.... I'm an unlucky one for stretch marks. They are now all over my lower belly. That's ok, I guess, I wanted to get a nice one-piece swimsuit this year anyway!

Sleep: not getting much at night, naps are a necessity!
Best moment this week: I would say my shower, but that was even topped with the presence of my best friends Meghan & Lisa & Yvonne & Aunt Carol!!!!! They cleverly surprised me by showing up at my shower. If only there would have been a video camera! Totally made the day/week/month that much better.
Miss Anything: my ability to sleep anywhere, anytime

Movement: oh yes, i love feeling the little feet sticking out.... except when they are in my ribs, of course
Belly Button: it comes out, goes in, comes out, goes in.... can't decide
Wedding Rings: no way
Looking Forward To: finding homes for all this baby stuff!! I'm so excited to organize everything... and then sit and stare at it in excitement.

My surprise guests!!! SO PUMPED!!!

Journal:
So anyone who wasn't at the shower, didn't receive a special call (don't feel bad, only my dad and Grandma did), didn't receive a special text (don't feel bad, only my sister did) and didn't ask me via facebook message, text, or personally- I assume you are interested in knowing what all those other people know??

We had a little Old Wive's Tale Q&A time at the shower-
-Heart rate above or below 140?     above
-Crave sweet or salty?                     salty
-Sleep on right or left side?               both
-Morning sickness or no?                 no
-Moody or even tempered?             moody
-Chinese Calendar boy or girl?         boy

So... what's YOUR guess??? The overwhelming majority of guests said GIRL!

Remember this picture?

the tacky outside... 

Here's the inside!

Surprise!

My awesome friends, Erika Nofziger, Kendra Beck, and Bethany Stuckey planned a WONDERFUL shower for me. It was so much fun. I thoroughly enjoyed it! For the guest book, Erika (of erikamarie photography) had a photobooth set up and guests had to pick either a mustache or bow as their prop and guess as to what the baby was! I can't wait to see the pictures!!! They had wonderfully delicious brunch foods for everyone to enjoy and cards for advice for Andrew and me, and mad libs! They were so funny, I just have to share them with you.

Advice cards

First off, this is the advice we were given (and how often it was given):
-Take lots of pictures, they change so fast (2)
-Rock the baby as much as possible
-Read lots of books to the baby
-Don't forget each other- keep marriage/love alive! (5)
-Let me babysit
-Pray with your baby every day
-Love him with all your heart (2)
-Ask for help (2)
-Don't forget how precious he is
-Good luck (2)
-Let me spoil the child with loud toys
-Teach the kid to use the litter box
-Let it be a baller
-Keep God as the center of our lives as we care for baby
-Don't take most things too seriously/maintain sense of humor (2)
-Laugh a lot
-Have fun
-Sleep when your baby does
-Train Andrew to change poopy diapers
-Snuggle whenever you can
-Breathe
-Sing
-Call your sister
-Don't call MOH for advice

Good advice, I think! I love how the piece of advice given most often was for Andrew and I to make time for each other and to remember to keep our love alive and growing! I understand that's harder to do, but way super important.

Baby Libs

Here is the Baby Libs with all the different answers we got...

My name is _____ and I know Andrew & Brittany from _____. I was so thrilled, excited, surprised, ecstatic, pumped, happy, pleased, elated, impressed, enthralled when I found out they were going to be parents that I immediately thought-Andrew-a dad?, screamed, congratulated them, jumped, squealed, smiled, shrieked, shouted, laughed, gave them hugs, peed, pooped and laughed, told everyone around me, wished them well, hit my head on the car ceiling, peed a little, threw the diaper you gave me in the air, smiled, giggled, congratulated them, told Rick, tackled Brittany, ran around the house, yelled, danced, sang, had tears, screamed, changed my underwear. I'm just sure they are having a boy/girl and I know they are going to be the most fun, greatest, coolest, best, happiest, most involved, most fabulous and wonderful sense of humor, cutest, most energized, craziest, odd, loveliest parents ever!

Advice?? When the baby comes, it's going to be pretty awesome, tiring, busy, boring, freaking awesome, exciting but tiring, cold, neat, cute, rambunctious, needy & demanding, crazy, amazing, loud, hectic, chubby, poopy, so Andrew & Brittany, make sure you get lots of rest to keep up, massages, sleep, sunshine, pictures, help, blankets, prayers, ice cream, patience, ear plugs, Mt Dew, time together before, milk, wets and preparation for baby to be center of attention, sleep, time to yourself, Vitamin D, cuddles, eat your fruits and veggies, patience, rest, hats, snacks, movies, videos, scotchcakes, understanding, relaxation, head phones, chocolate, cookies, wipes. A sure way to get the baby to sleep is to sing a loud version of Jesus Loves Me, country music,Rockabye Baby, Joyful Joyful, Come Thou Fount, anything praise, Happy Girl, Silent Night, the National Anthem, Kum by ah, Will You Go With Me, Eye of the Tiger, The Gummy Bear song, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Jingle Bells, Wagon Wheel, 606, Take Me Home Country Roads, Whiskey Lullaby, the Steelers theme song, and you should always hug, laugh with, kiss, zerbert, smooch, rock, roll, snuggle, nuzzle, sing to, swaddle, pat, be calm, be loving, sit, pray, tickle, hassle, cuddle, hold, play with, talk to, play instead of housework, dance with, feed, burp, harmonize, yell too, pinch, squeeze him/her. You really can't do that too much, you know! Andrew, you should always do what Brittany tells you, massage Brittany's back, cook Brittany's favorite food, sign Brittany's belly, be patient with Brittany's hormones, kiss Brittany's cheek, love Brittany's ideas, massage Brittany's feet, be aware of Brittany's needs, pamper Brittany's whole life, obey Brittany's commands, wait on Brittany always, rub Brittany's toes, blow on Brittany's ears, and Brittany remember to always laugh at Andrew's sense of humor, ask Andrew to clean the house, pluck Andrew's ear wax, wax Andrew's back, encourage Andrew's creative work in the shop, love Andrew always, tickle Andrew's feet, be aware of Andrew's needs, comb Andrew's hair, encourage Andrew's help, ruffle Andrew's hair, push Andrew's nose, fund Andrew's remote control cars, rub Andrew's feet, wash Andrew's clothes, feed Andrew's stomach, laugh at Andrew's jokes, kiss Andrew's lips, tie Andrew's tie, pack Andrew's lunch, start Andrew's car, pet Andrew's beard, trim Andrew's toenails,  there's nothing you need to do for Andrew. I can't wait to see, hold, squeeze, play with the feet of, snuggle, raspberry, spoil, keep, meet, body slam your precious bundle! Wishing him/her a lifetime of love, joy, blessings, love, fun, laughter, adventures, white water rafting, snorkeling, singing, Jesus, peace, rest, happiness, memories, giggles, songs, great wealth, health, faith, contentment, smiles, silliness, success, general awesomeness, good communication (babies turn into teenagers), fun aunts & uncles, goofiness, loud toys, milk, naps, Steeler wins, sleep filled nights, & trips to Galen & Erika's house.

Again, I LOVE LOVE LOVE that out of 25 responses, 11 said that Andrew should always rub or massage my feet (and toes), and 3 said to rub/massage my back. These friends of mine are so good to me. I think I definitely need to have Andrew take a look at all this great advice we got!!!

There were also guessing games where people put buttons in jars with their guess on things like blue or brown eyes (brown), hair or no hair (hair), larger or smaller than 7 lb 5 oz. (larger.... rude...) look like Andrew or like me (Andrew) and I forget if there were others. My choices would be: Blue eyes, brown wavy hair, smaller than 7lb 5oz, and looks like Andrew.  So really-- all like Andrew except for the hair- his hair is much too straight.

Fact Sheets on the tables

A big snow storm/blizzard came through the day after the shower so my sister, niece, and mom had to leave early to get ahead of it- which was a major bummer for me... but I suppose they wanted to get back home to their families before getting stuck here for a few days. And they sure would be stuck! Right now it's -9 degrees with the wind chill at -40 degrees. That's cold. The winds are quite strong- blowing the 15 inches of snow that fell into large drifts. All area counties are in a level 3 snow emergency, meaning it's illegal to drive on the roads unless it's an emergency. This is how winter should be done. I hate cold and I generally don't like winter, but if I'm not even ALLOWED to be outside in it, then I LOVE it! hello soup and hot cocoa, sweatpants and sweatshirts, and staying INSIDE!!! Of course... 6 weeks from now when I'll be due to have this adorable baby I would like to have clean, dry, smooth roads please. :)

So I've been busy writing this really long blog post, putting baby things away- or at least here and there, and washing, stuffing and folding my cloth diapers!!

drying the freshly prepped and washed diapers!

all stuffed, snapped, and ready to go!

I think it's time for some more re-arranging to fit more baby things in their new homes..

Enjoy your week!

Week 33: Surprise Showers!

Size of Baby: a durian. I don't have a clue what that is... but about 5 lbs!!!

What's that Babe up to: keeping eyes open, coordinating breathing, sucking, and swallowing, and hardening bones. oh! and growing.... a lot.
Symptoms: rib pain, foot pain, nighttime congestion, sleepless nights!

Food cravings or aversions: none
Weight: 188
Weight gain so far: 40 lb
Maternity Clothes: always
Stretch Marks: no new.

Sleep: not getting much at night, naps are a necessity!
Best moment this week: Seeing my family this weekend in Pennsylvania for Christmas!
Miss Anything: my ability to sleep anywhere, anytime

Movement: all the time. LOVE it!
Belly Button: it comes out, goes in, comes out, goes in.... can't decide.
Wedding Rings: no way
Looking Forward To: my baby shower this weekend!!!

Journal:
 Remember that time that I wrote out a journal and somehow lost it and never felt like re-writing it? Well.... that may have happened again. On our trip back to Ohio from PA I wrote this week's journal, but it didn't save, I suppose since I wasn't connected to the internet. I am not pleased!!!
Anyway- It was such a great week that I probably should attempt to document it again!

After spending the day after Christmas just hanging out at home, Andrew and I left Friday morning for our last trip to Pennsylvania before the baby comes! It was pretty uneventful- we had to stop a couple times to walk around and use the facilities and eat some lunch, so it took us an extra hour to get there. I realized the days of trying to take that trip without stopping are probably over. During one of our stops, I got Andrew to fast-walk with me in circles around the food court area. It was a humorous time together. :)

Friday evening my sister and her family came down to my parents and Michelle, Mom, Greta, and I made gingerbread houses. Mike and Andrew should also be mentioned as construction assistants. It was Greta's first experience with gingerbread houses, and she did a phenomenal job. We all enjoyed eating the decorations as we worked!

Before we went to bed Friday night, my dad said he would take Andrew out with him for breakfast with some of his friends. This is a fairly regular occurance, and I said something about going along, and somehow it ended up being a race- whoever got up first could go along to breakfast. I slept terribly on the couch that night so I was up early at 6:30! Dad came out to the kitchen and I raised my arms in victory! Then I went to go upstairs to change my clothes and saw Andrew at the top of the stairs already fully dressed for the day. We called it a tie and we both got to go along. :) My dad said it was the last time he will take me out for breakfast for a long time, since he doesn't take crying babies to breakfast. It was wonderful.

After we got back from breakfast we packed up again and made another road trip to Lebanon/Lancaster. I was luckily able to take a nap on the way, but was woken up when we finally met back up with my parents... We took different routes, but left at the same time. We caught up to them around Harrisburg and Andrew laid on the horn- startling me from my nap. We laughed.
We had our Christmas celebration with my mom's side of the family on Saturday, and then with my dad's side of the family on Sunday. Both celebrations were laid back and fun to catch up with my cousins!!!
My mom also had my families shower Andrew and I with some baby things! I apparently came inside too early for the Hershey surprise shower, but it was still a surprise to me!!! It was so wonderful to receive such adorable things for our little baby, and even more wonderful to feel loved by my extended family. I am truly blessed.

After Saturday's party, we stopped nearby to see my dear friend, Meghan, and her husband and where they live! It was a short little visit, but I was so glad we had time to say hello!! Then we made our way to Lancaster/Lititz to spend the evening and night with the Derr's. They are such wonderful hosts, making us feel welcomed and relaxed while Amber made some DELICIOUS food!! (and hot chocolate!)
After Sunday's party, we trekked back out to my parents' house and pretty much went straight to bed!
On Monday, Andrew spent the whole day working on projects for my dad outside, and I helped my mom get ready for our family Christmas and dinner, and hanging out with all my nieces and nephews! One of my favorite parts was the hour or 2 or 3 that I spent sitting on the couch with my feet up, holding my precious 4 month old niece, Amber!

kisses for Austin!

love these kiddos!

After a DELICIOUS Christmas meal, we all cleaned it up, and got ready to exchange gifts.

On Monday, my friend, Melina, stopped by to visit. It was so nice to see her again. She and her husband moved to Honduras at the end of the summer to teach in a school down there. They found out she was pregnant before leaving and it turns out she is due around the same time as I am! I know so many (of you!) are pregnant and due in January and February but I don't live near any of you! So it was cool to be able to see someone due at the same time. :) I hope they are twins. That would be fun. We were conveniently wearing very similar shirts... Here are some pictures!

matchy-matchy!

Our baby bump kisses are a little lopsided...

One thing that Andrew and I realized this weekend from all three Christmas celebrations was.... KIDS ARE LOUD!!!!! The Hershey Christmas has quite a few children, and it got loud from time to time but a large chunk of time they could be outside. The King Christmas, however, was all inside, and having 10 kids 4 years old and younger is VERY noisy!!! They all wanted each others' toys, and there was so much crying and tattling, and the like..... I didn't understand it, so I asked my sister why they all wanted whatever someone else had, and she said, "Because they are kids." Hmm.... Andrew and I decided that we liked our kid inside my belly- nice and quiet. ;)
Monday was pretty much the same- very noisy and chaotic- due to the 6 kids under 5.... though Amber did great. :) I'm not sure if we are really ready for the noise. Actually, I know we're not.... oh well! only 7 weeks to get ready!

So now here we are in the New Year. I can now say, my baby is due to come NEXT MONTH! February 19th is only 7 weeks away and that, my friends, is CRAZINESS!!! My baby shower is this Saturday, and I am SUPER-PUMPED! I have some really awesome friends out here who planned it, and are refusing to tell me anything about it (can I blame them, since I refuse to tell them if we are having a boy or girl?) and I'm excited to see what they've planned! This also means that the secret will be out in a short 3 days!!!

Stay tuned to see if we are going to be buying bows or bowties!!!!!!

the Gender Reveal box for Saturday!

The welcoming crew is assembling!

Week 32: Getting Quite Uncomfortable!

What's that Babe up to: lots of moving around.
Symptoms: all still there. The most bothersome would be the swollen hands in the morning to the point of pain, the swollen ankles and feet that only get worse as the day goes on and sometimes don't go away, plantar faciitis, and the baby digging into my ribs on the right side, and mid and lower back pain.

Food cravings or aversions: craved grilled cheese the other night and then dreamt about it.
Weight: 186
Weight gain so far: 38 lbs
Maternity Clothes: I will miss these clothes...
Stretch Marks: fo sho. still none on my belly, just the hips, but my are they lookers!

Sleep: would be so much better if I could breathe
Best moment this week: CHRISTMAS!!!!
Miss Anything: being comfortable, breathing easily, easy sleeping

Movement: very much so. I just wish the baby would move when I try to push it out of my ribs!
Belly Button: has a mind of it's own. It does stick out just a little bit when you look with a shirt on. But it's just weird.
Wedding Rings: off. My hands are huge
Looking Forward: more Christmas!!! And GOING TO PENNSYLVANIA TO SEE MY FAMILY!!!!

Journal:

  Today my hands and fingers are more swollen than they have ever been before. They hurt. I can barely reach an octave on the piano which is not something I usually struggle with at all. They feel so sore, like I must have been wringing out washcloths all day long yesterday. All I can say is, I'm so glad I have a break from cleaning teeth for a while and I hope they go back to normal before January 2nd when I go back! I have already had to go up a glove size, because my smalls felt like extra smalls, but the mediums were a little big yet. I'm pretty sure the medium would be TIGHT today! 

My ankles and feet are swollen this morning too. Usually that's just at the end of the day and then I sleep with them raised and they are better in the morning. Usually. Not today. Of course, Christmas Eve I was on my feet a lot and they didn't swell at all. I guess that little break in the day when I raised and rested them did them good. They also seem to have a mind of their own. They are pretty gross though. My nurse-sister-in-law told me they are a class 1 and 2 of pitted edema.  Class 4 in grossness.  The compression socks only seem to help sometimes, so I haven't bothered to try to put them on every day. They are really hard to get off!!!

So last Friday I was supposed to volunteer at ten thousand villages, but I woke up very congested and swollen and achey and the thought of standing for 4 hours sounded like pure torture. So I called in sick. Talk about guilt. Who calls in sick to volunteering?!? Instead I got a massage. I was still congested and swollen but the achey was all better! It had been way too long! I go regularly due to shoulder pain/tension, but I haven't even noticed that due to the pain in my mid back and lower back. Of course, once she started doing her thing, then I felt it all everywhere. I wish I could have stayed another hour! Needless to say, I'll be going back again in 3 weeks.

Friday night we had the Craig Spotts Christmas, which was fun and goofy as usual. We like to have a good time, and typically document those goofy times on camera quite well. See tagged photos of me on Facebook for examples! Then on Saturday we went back to the in-laws for the Stuckey Christmas. By 8:00 I was very uncomfortable, tired, and swollen. I really wanted to go home and go to bed. But family is too fun to leave early on... So we stayed until 11:30 and I could have cried when I crawled into bed. I don't remember... Maybe I did!

Sunday was Christmas at church which was lovely. I had my new Christmas dress on to wear, and pulled out my black flats to wear with it, but alas, they do not fit. So I wore my crocs, which didn't really match, but at least they were black! Ha! Then we went to Grandma Stuckeys for lunch and finally back home to relax and kick our feet up. And I pretty much stayed on the couch the rest of the day.

Monday Andrew and I both worked and I was so exhausted by the end of the day but I had to stop at the grocery store on the way home. Well.... The checkout lady was SUPER slow and I got locked in line before I could escape and pick a different one. Then on the way out of the parking lot/entrance/exit the vehicle coming in stopped and flashed his lights at me to go. Well I had a stop sign and he didn't, so he was yielding his right-of-way and I really HATE when people do that. I felt like I was getting set up  for an accident and then it was going to be my fault. I say all this to tell you that I was in a very grumpy mood by then and AND JUST WANTED TO GET HOME! So I set my cruise just a little higher than I normally do and went on my way. Sure enough. You guessed it. I got pulled over. And the time that I had a ton of excuses, "I'm pregnant" "my feet are really swollen and sore and I need to get them lifted ASAP" "my unborn child is digging into my ribs because sitting up in a car is very uncomfortable for both of us" "I'm eating these pretzels on my way home because I'm so hungry and I still have to make supper when I get home." And of course, "I'm sorry I'm crying, I'm just so emotionally unstable right now because I'm PREGNANT." Well... I didn't use any of those. I don't really know why. But when he asked me if I had a reason for speeding, which, yes I obviously did... All I had the energy to say was, "I just really want to get home."  He was a man, so he couldn't read my mind that I was really saying all those other excuses as well. I don't even know if he saw I was pregnant. I had my big coat on and so I just looked fat, probably. I did struggle to reach my glove box, which is probably when he saw I had my front plate INSIDE the car. I guess he thought since it was almost Christmas he would write me a ticket for that instead of speeding. That saved me $25 and 2 points. I think I already have 2 points, so that was a nice gesture. A BETTER  gesture would have been a verbal warning and a Merry Christmas. I bawled after he went back to his car to write me the ticket and all the way home. Woe is me. I know many of you know my track record for speeding in Ohio is really awful, but I must say, I have gotten A LOT better. This was seriously probably one of 5 times that I sped (too much) and of course I can't get away with it. Not here in Ohio, my friends. 

Tuesday was Christmas Eve and the first one that I didn't spend with my family. I was sad inside all day but enjoyed it anyway. It really just felt like a Saturday as Andrew and I tried to get some things done. Laundry, dishes, cooking, cleaning.... Really fun stuff. Then that evening we went to our church's Christmas Eve service and had Andrews parents and brother and grandma over for boggle and snacks afterward. That was fun. That brings us to Christmas Day! The day I turned 32 weeks pregnant! I couldn't sleep in the morning past 6:30 so I decided to just get up and get some things going. I threw a load in the washer and the dryer, folded towels, started the breakfast casserole and got that in the oven, ran a load of dishes in the dishwasher..... All before Andrew got up. I felt old. I felt like a mom. It was fun. We finished breakfast by 9:15 and I had already gotten most things done for the day!! So we exchanged our gifts, then cleaned up breakfast, then spent the day playing with our new toys. Andrew got me an AWESOME sewing machine... That I plan on playing with more today. Then in the evening we went to Lynn and Karlenes for snacks and games. More Christmas fun!!! 

We have today at home to pack and get ready for the weekend, and play more with our toys and then we leave for the big trip to PA tomorrow. I got my seat all comfy and ready to go... We shall see how long it takes us to get there!

Merry Christmas to all!!!

"For unto you, is born this day, a SAVIOR, which is Christ The Lord."

Week 31: We are in the single digits!!!

Size of Baby: over 3 pounds!

What's that Babe up to: lots of moving around.
Symptoms: heartburn, lower back pain, bloody noses, leg and foot cramps, frequent urination, plantar fasciitis, major swelling

Food cravings or aversions:  none
Weight: 183
Weight gain so far: 35 lbs
Maternity Clothes: I will miss these clothes...
Stretch Marks: fo sho. still none on my belly, just the hips, but my are they lookers!

Sleep: it's so hit or miss. Some nights are great and some nights are awful. Some nights I love the body pillow, some nights I throw it on the floor and pull out my contoured pillow and sleep on my back.
Best moment this week: getting all my Christmas shopping done, and then spending all afternoon and evening wrapping gifts while listening to Mannheim Steamrollers. Oh I just love this time of year!
Miss Anything: being comfortable

Movement: oh yes. This kid has become so very active. I love it!! I am going to miss this. Seriously, that's all I think about now- is how much I'm going to miss being pregnant.
Belly Button: has a mind of it's own. It has changed SO many times! Now it's a forever tunnel again like it used to be. You just never know...
Wedding Rings: off. And fake band is off now too. Boo... no one will think I'm married.
Looking Forward To: Christmas starts this weekend with the in-laws!!! SO EXCITED!

A little non-traditional this week with the update picture!

Journal:

Alrighto.... Kid.... You know that I love you, right? Well, I do.  Now that you know that.... Could you please stop pushing my liver into my ribs. As it turns out, it doesn't feel very good! Would you like me to stop pushing you around inside my belly? Sorry. I enjoy it too much... But I'll try to be nicer about it if you stop pushing on my ribs. Ok thanks.

So let's talk about long torsos. There are some nice things about having a long torso, and plenty of bad things about having a long torso. I have a long torso. It is the part of my body that makes people think I'm tall, not my legs. Anyway... I generally do like having a long torso as I think it spreads out my innards and fat. It is also why I think it looks like I am carrying this baby low. If I had a shorter torso I think the baby would have been pushing on my ribs a long time ago. I'm glad it's just now starting. Having a long torso has given me some wardrobe troubles throughout my life. In high school, shirts were never long enough to fit into dresscode so I had to wear wifebeaters pulled down low under all of my shirts. With fitted dresses, the wider part that generally would be at a woman's hips, is usually too high and at my waist. I have loved maternity clothes because finally! Some real length on some shirts!! 

This topic is about to go to the bathroom. That's your warning.  

I feel I have been sufficiently warned that when your belly gets so big you can see down there making it a guess when it comes to grooming.... Or a mirror. Well.... No one warned me about the whole reaching that area. I grunt every time I have to wipe because it's such a stretch. And with all that's going on down there you want to make sure it's clean. Then I got to thinking... Maybe not everyone struggles with this because most people don't have as far to reach, since they don't have such a long torso. Anyway... If you have a long torso, just be warned that little but important things like wiping (let alone putting pants and shoes on) will be a struggle.

Well... Time to participate in some family Christmases. I'll see if I can get some more pictures up for next week. Christmas at the Spotts house is usually pretty funny-looking!!!

Speaking of which... We will be taking the Spotts tradition of a family picture every Christmas, unlike the Kings who take a family picture every 5-10 years.... Or maybe more so every 10-20........

MERRY CHRISTMAS!