End of an era

Today is the last day of 2008. 2008 B.C. (Before Child) 2009 will be A.O. (after Olivia). What a strange concept that soon someone will depend on me for everything. I will be looking into the eyes of a combination of John and myself. It is so exciting to see what we combine to make. So far, I think, she looks like me. But, babies also change dramatically from birth to even a few months old. As long as she gets John's side of the height gene pool, all is well.
Right now, it seems that Olivia is reacting to being pushed on/poked. She will push back when I put my hand somewhere. It's so amazing! It's not a guaranteed occurrence, so don't go asking me to perform the trick with a guaranteed result, but it happens...believe me!
I am starting to ache to see her. The 3-d ultrasound was like a fix for my heroin-esque baby addiction. I need more!! I have a little over two months (if everything goes according to schedule). I still have baby showers to attend and baby stuff to buy and...most important.. a room to put together.
The only thing that John and I have successfully done to the baby room is set up the glider (for testing purposes! we don't want that thing to not work when the time comes!) I plan to have O sleep with me in the beginning, so I don't think the crib is as critical right now, although there is no baby room complete without one.
My mom has a box full of baby clothes just waiting to be worn. So far, my favorite is a small white bonnet. Who knew that a bonnet would make me even more excited to see my baby! I just know she would look so cute in it.
Well, I suppose I should be enjoying these last few months when O's needs are being taken care of and John and I can leave the house without needing a babysitter or a diaper bag and baby. It's getting harder and harder to be patient, though. This is not exactly, as you have probably figured out by now, a virtue I am good with. I guess I will have to just hug my nephew a little bit more to get me through... Or I'll take friend volunteers ;-)

It's getting harder and harder to breathe

I am studying for an exam I am taking tomorrow. This requires me sitting up for extended periods of time, which compresses my whole midsection. I get extremely uncomfortable because I cannot breathe with the ease of the pre-belly days. This rings true for sleeping as well.
The required side sleeping is getting increasingly complicated due to the fact that, in preparation for pregnancy, the hormones dissolve the (drawing a blank for the medical word) connectivity between the hipbones so they can widen and separate and allow a baby to pass through. So, I get stabbing pains in my hips when I sleep on my side. Sounds like fun, huh? I am going to have to find an alternative, which may be sleeping in an upright seated position...but then we get back to that nagging breathing issue....
Even though I cannot help but enjoy these times when Olivia is safe and is having all of her needs met inside me, I cannot wait to get some more room back in there. Of course, then I will probably be sleeping even less due to the needing me to meet all of her needs thing...

Wake up, little O. Let me SEE you!

The first set of pictures were of body parts. Olivia was hiding her face by facing toward my back. Then, when Sami, the ultrasound tech, finally got her head, she was hiding in her arms. It's like she was determined not to let me see her yet. But, we all persevered.
Finally the seas, uh, her arms, parted and we got a good look at her. It turns out she looks like momma! Lips and nose anyway. Babies change so much...who knows what we'll get when she makes her appearance and then grows into her own person.
I thought I would cry when I finally got to see her. I just really spent so long trying to figure out what it is I was looking at. It's amazing how the littlest nothings set me off, but when I see her, I am calm. Maybe that's another part of motherhood. Although, I hear you tend to shed tears for the real thing....

Nooooooooooo Snoooooooooooooooooow!

I can't look outside right now, it's too depressing. It is white out conditions snowing and all I can think about is how I am going to get to the doctor's office in one piece to get my 3-d ultrasound. What if they close?! I couldn't bare it if I had to wait one more minute let another day or more. It's Schaumburg or bust for me today. Olivia has been moving a LOT these past few days..I think she's just as excited. If only she knew how crappy it was outside right now. They say if you are driving 30 mph you are going too fast. Great. Well, now I have an excuse to leave earlier than normal. Sitting in the car fearing for my life might pass the time better than being in this office...

The Dropper

Either I always drop things and just notice it more now that it is harder to bend over or I just drop more stuff now. Every time I drop something (like doing laundry last night, nothing went in the machine...) I almost laugh to myself that God is having a good time up there playing with me. "Should I let her get at least one sock in the dryer? Nah..." I have to believe at least someone is getting a laugh out of this because I am not and I doubt it's much fun for Olivia.
Tomorrow at this time I will have seen you, Olivia! I can't wait. I am dying to know who you are looking like. Although, I did just have a talk with my friend/former coworker about how babies tend to look like their dads at birth so the dad doesn't feel competition. This is true for all animals. Or so she says. It makes sense...and has been true for her and my sister's babes. I wouldn't mind, it's not like I was the most attractive baby on the planet...I hope I didn't just insult my father ;-o

Baby Crying = me crying

Today was the big hospital tour. We got a slide show introduction and then went to the women's hospital to see the deliver room, nursery and recovery room (much smaller and more hospital-esque). Walking past the nursery, we saw twins. I have never seen newborn twins before and, boy, are they TINY. Sooo cute, though.
Anyway, as we were touring the recovery room, I heard a baby crying. This set my hormones on fi-YUH. I had to fight hard to hold in my tears. It's getting entertaining now, watching those hormones run rampant. So far I haven't made a complete idiot of myself, but it's a good thing the belly let's people know what to expect in that department.
Last night was girls night with my homies Wendy and Jess. We had a great night of tapas and I watched them drink wine and imagined what that was like ;-) Anyway, before the restaurant I was at Jess' parents house. Her parents said I had the "pregnancy glow". Now, I have heard that before, but I truly don't see it. Is it an aura? Do I just seem more content or is it the "fuller" look I have from gaining weight? I mean, whatever it is, it sounds good, but I feel like I look the same. I definitely FEEL different.
I am waiting for my priorities to shift too. I can't wait for Olivia to come into my world for many reasons, but especially to take my mind off of the small, unimportant things that I seem to focus on.... work things especially. I am truly looking forward to maternity leave and being at home with my girl and just focusing on her and her needs....even though I am still concerned about how I am going to handle that...
Two more days until my birthday and my 3-d ultrasound. I could not think of a better gift to get! I want to see who she is looking more like...that she is definitely a she...what position she is in (what part of her is pushing on me). Olivia is now finding room higher (in my ribs) and lower (way down at the bottom of my belly) to move and groove. It is strange to have someone poking around there along with the standard pushing in the middle area. I want to know what part of her is in my ribs and what part of her is...down there.
Tomorrow I am treating myself to my promised monthly prenatal massage with Rose. I am really looking forward to it. No aches and pains at this time, but I will take an hour of heaven...for the baby.

Third Trimester - Time to FREAK OUT!

As my due date gets within visible range...I am officially starting to freak out about how I am going to do this...you know, be a parent of a newborn. It is what I have wanted for a while now, but the thought of keeping up with breastfeeding alone stresses me out. What if I don't have enough milk...how am I going to wake up every 2-3 hours to feed Olivia? How are John and I going to handle the stress that goes along with not knowing what Olivia needs? I hope I don't find our cat sleeping in Olivia's bed...
Then there are the current stresses of...is she moving enough? I know I have explained this to myself before, but she didn't move much the other day and it worried me again. I guess this all boils down to my not being able to believe I finally got the chance to have a baby of my own...what did I do to deserve such a wonderful opportunity?
And then there's the freaking out about how my freaking out is affecting Olivia.
I need a massage...

Future soccer player?

This morning, at my first third trimester doctor's visit, I did the typical weight, bp, belly measurements and heartbeat (what I most look forward to). It's crazy that you can not only hear O's heartbeat, but how much she's actually moving down there. I guess I don't feel everything she's doing... Then, right before the doc was about to take the monitor away from my belly, O gave it a good thwack...right into the monitor for mommy! So, maybe I should add soccer player to her triathletic skills. It's good to know that she already has better coordination than I.

Oops, sorry!

Mark this day as the day I opened a door into my belly. It's amazing how quickly one forgets how much room you have in front (or lack thereof). Up until now, miraculously, I have been pretty good about banging into things. That is not to say I have not been a klutz here and there, but I haven't inflicted harm on myself.
Speaking of being a klutz, there is actually a reason I am a huge dropper as of late. Did you know the hormones make your muscles relax so the gripping factor ain't what it used to be. So, it's not just me.... I am assuming those hormones work themselves back into shape when the baby arrives. Let's not dwell on that...
I am already vertically challenged and now horizontally blessed. It's HARD reaching things in the cabinets when you have to stand back too. I may work on perfecting the side reach...When cooking I now have to hold my arms out like Barbie. But with that challenge also comes the bonus of having a shelf for your food when eating in front of the TV. Uh, I mean, when having John recite poetry while I eat....(although he DOES have the accent for that stuff)
I have noticed this before, but I noticed it enough to want to blog about it today: the baby isn't always equally distributed in the belly. I think Olivia was on her side today as my left side stuck out more than my right. (Just as I was showing John the freakishness that is my belly, she kicked! Way to perform for Daddy!) I wish I could tell just by feeling what position she is in (aka head-up or down). I think I am going to ask the doctor tomorrow morning. Sometimes everything feels like it could be the top of her head...
I still have yet to play the 3am-go-to-the-store-and-get-your-pregnant-wife-the-treat-she-craves card. I am trying to decide what I would want that badly...because you KNOW I am going to play that card. The only real regrets one has in life is the things they didn't do....
The baby room still has not taken shape. I am beginning to wonder when my nesting urge will kick in. I'll keep you posted...

My head doesn't have to explode...yet

Get ready to fall in love with my OTHER boss. After not being able to sleep last night, I had a bright idea to propose, as a compromise, that I would be willing to work evenings and weekends from after one month (where John will be home to take care of Olivia). My other boss quickly responded to my offer. This actually made me cry this morning.

"[We] were reviewing project obligations and schedules and your temporary leave yesterday. First and foremost you need to do what is best for the three of you and we will adapt accordingly. What you're proposing seems very workable. That said, since there are so many unknowns going forward we will work with you and be flexible. I personally encourage you to spend as much time as possible with the family . . . . work will take care of itself."

I just realized how lucky I am when it comes to my job. The first real dose of holiday spirit I have had thus far. Cuz, it ain't coming from my fellow commuters...that is fo' sho'.

Cribs, gliders and guilt

Yesterday, John and I went to buy the crib. I had my eye on some more expensive models at Babies r Us and Buy Buy Baby, but the Consumer's Digest of all things baby "Baby Bargains" gave high marks for Ikea...of all places. Upon further research, Ikea had great reviews on their cribs, so that's where we decided to go. I admit, the crib we got does not match ANY of the furniture we have in the room, and, in comparison to the other cribs, it looks extremely simple, but it was also 1/4 the price. This is the first time in my life where I feel guilty about saving money. Right now, I have no reason to because all of the reviews are good, but I feel like I should have gotten the Cadillac anyway. The opposite usually happens with me. We'll see how it goes. John has to actually assemble the crib and I can spend some time with it and see if we get along...
Where I DID splurge is on our next trip to Babies R Us to look at gliders (the rocking chair of today). The chairs and ottomans ranged from $300 in combination to $500 for just the chair and a little under two hundo for the ottoman. The less expensive version, and what I would normally get because a chair is a chair was too narrow. Since I have heard that you basically live in these things in the beginning, I wanted to get something that John and I were comfortable in. So I bought the more expensive model. Funnily enough, the sales rep had the model numbers memorized because we happened to pick the most popular chair. Hopefully, that is a good thing.
So, now I feel guilty for splurging on my thing and saving on the crib. I rationalize it as she won't really care as long as it's safe. Just, if you come to visit me, pay no attention to the pink elephant in her room, aka her crib. Admire the glider ;-)
Also, I dusted off the "What to Expect When You're Expecting". I hadn't read that thing since my first trimester and, now that I am one day away from my third trimester, I thought I would catch up. First of all, I should not have put that book away. A lot of the Q&A portions of the book (what other moms are going through) is exactly what I went through. For example, the panicking about those days when Olivia was not moving as much as "normal". It explained that babies are humans (shocker) and sometimes they just don't feel like getting up and about, especially when you're moving a lot and basically rocking them to sleep. Sometimes, the baby is kicking all over the place it feels like you have an octopus in there...that's just cuz at this point there is so much room to groove...that will lessen as the babies grow. And then there are some things I wish I hadn't read, like getting the big H (hemorrhoids). Yum...
Recently I have been on the lazy side, so Olivia has gotten her groove on inside me. Last night she was doing more pushing than kicking...more tai chi than tai-bo. Whatever it is, I love it. It let's me know she's doing well.
One of the bonuses of having a dad who is a retired Gyno (and, I realized that I may make it sound like he's my gyno, but that is NOT the case...he's just my second opinion) is that he still has connections to his office and I am getting a free 3-d ultrasound on my birthday. That's about two weeks away still, but I am so excited! Great birthday present to me, no?!

Moooooooooo

Is it bad that I ordered my breast pump the other day and I am anxiously awaiting it's delivery. It's amazing the things that excite me nowadays.
I also stopped into Buy Buy Baby this afternoon. Imagine a Bed Bath and Beyond, but baby stuff. I was looking for plain ol' burp cloths. (Babies R Us did not have plain burp cloths) and managed to buy that and whatever that thing is called that you put over your shoulder to nurse in public, and then a miracle blanket...in pink! The modesty nursing thingy had a cool pattern, so I just HAD to have it.
Hopefully all of this nursing stuff will help me be all I can be in that department....and my boobs will respond accordingly ;-)

Hello Rock, Hello Hard Place, Pleased to meet you...

Yesterday I was in my car with my boss driving to a meeting. We start talking baby and that evolved into him asking "How long are you planning on taking off for maternity?". Now, here's the kicker...and most women would be horrified at his train of thinking : "Two weeks? A month?" The lovely thing about this is that my boss's wife went back to work after two weeks. Needless to say she owns her own business, is 10 years older than I am and they have a live in nanny. At this point I thought if I said "the whole 12 weeks", he would veer off the road. I mean, we are a small firm...I make up 1/4 of the architects and we have, thankfully, a lot of projects going on right now (in this economy). But, I have not met a mom who is happy she went back to work early or even after 12 weeks, and I want all of that time with my child. I would like more if I could swing it. Here's the real kick in the pants... If I say, "to hell with you" and quit, it may be harder to get another job in this economy... John makes decent coin, but I am not sure we can do the one person salary with a newborn.
Right now, I really really dislike my boss' wife for setting a terrible precedent and making him think this is all reasonable. On the bright side, if there is one in this scenario, they are being "totally flexible" and letting me work from home. I am no expert, but I think babies need a ton of attention and how I am going to fit work in between meeting O's needs (and my own). Maybe it will work out, but what if it doesn't?
So, let this be a lesson to all of you working women with the hopes of having a baby...if you work in a small firm, make sure you know what your employer's expectations are. I mean, because of FMLA, they HAVE to hold my job, but I have my hands in so much at this point they would really suffer if I was gone for that long, even with a temporary replacement. And believe me, in this economy, that is like blood in the water.

Zen is not in silence

I have learned that the thing that can make everything right in the world is the sound of a baby's laughter. My nephew has been hiding this from me since he started laughing, but, last night, my sister called me to hear his laughter over the phone. All of a sudden, I forgot all of my cares and was just happy. I think they should record the sound of a baby laughing and put it in an alarm clock. If people woke up to this sound every morning, then the world would be a better place.
Also, I was at the gym last night, walking on the indoor track and a woman stopped me to tell me that I did not look pregnant from behind. Can I just tell you that I literally had a skip in my step after that! So, lesson to everyone (unless it is a completely inappropriate situation for you men...) is, if you want to admire how great a pregnant woman looks, tell her! I am sure she will appreciate it!!!

Mommy as a baby

Well, if O ends up looking like me at birth,

we know there's still hope ;-)

Too pink or not too pink, that is the question...

The registry is officially started. It’s not complete because I have to drag John to the stores so we can pick out the crib together. (That’s manly, no?).
Thanks to my sister and Kata! Kata drove from Wilmington in traffic AND crappy weather to help me scan up a storm at Babies R’ Us. It went really well and I highly recommend bringing in the pros…I can see how it would be overwhelming even with those recommendations from the stores.
Even though it’s not the REASON for finding out if I was having a girl or a boy, I ended up sticking to mostly gender neutral stuff. When it comes down to most of the things you need, you want them around for more than your first kid, so, unless there becomes a way I am guaranteed only girls…. (Not sure I’d want that if it did.)
Olivia can get her pink on when she decides it’s what she wants…or if it’s given to her. For now, I am not going to bathe her in Pepto Bismol.
I am very excited now to get this stuff and start setting up the baby’s room. I am sure this will help John mentally prepare for this life-changing event as well!

So that's what that is

I kept reading about braxton-hicks contractions, but I assumed that I would be feeling ...what I imagined was labor pains. The other day, I felt pressure on my belly and my belly was hard to the touch. Fortunately, my dad was around to tell me that I was experiencing braxton-hicks contractions. I thought contractions meant pain, but, in this case, it's just a slight pressure and mostly uncomfortable.
I finally got to reading what those actually meant and it's the muscles of the uterus tightening. What causes b-h contractions? The American Pregnancy Association (there's an association for everything...) says:
When you or the baby are very active (that explains a few things)
If someone touches your belly (I haven't had that happen yet, but, I wonder how, exactly, someone would have to touch my belly for my uterus to go "Hey!" and tighten up.)
When your bladder is full (or it could just be a full bladder....)
After sex (now women can know what it's like to be a guy)
Dehydration (Look, it's hard to drink a lot when you know you'll just have to pee in a matter of seconds, OKAY!)
So those times when I thought O was just getting mad at me and pushing on my belly if I was overdoing it in the activity department, it was O's casa that was the culprit and this is a common occurrence in pregnant women. That doesn't make it any less strange when it feels like you can pop your belly with a pin at one moment and it's soft the next.
Also, I'd like to give a shout out to my pregnant twin, Renata. We went shopping today and took full advantage of being pregnant and stopped at Ethel's chocolate cafe and had hot chocolate and s'mores...warm s'mores.
If you can swing it, I would recommend having a friend be as pregnant as you are. It's good to have someone who's going through exactly what you are going through (someone who can remind you that NOW is the time to act on those sweet cravings)...and we pretty much are on the same page.. Well, except I am woefully behind the times on registering and buying baby things. Hopefully that will change tomorrow when I bring in the pros (aka sis and Kata) and we do some damage at babies r us. I am sure I will have a blog about that tomorrow.

My belly can blow kisses, what can yours do?

I guess you'd have to be here. I just did this fast in the mirror and made myself cry laughing. I wonder if the thermometer (aka belly button) will ever pop out. My sister's didn't. Maybe it's genetic. I can handle it staying tucked in....

Daddy as a baby

In an attempt to figure out what Olivia may look like, I have requested photos of John as a baby from his mum. I will try to find some of myself as soon as I can. I have my mom looking. I think we're in for a platinum blond, uber-pale, blue eyed baby so far.

Oh those wacky North shore moms

Yesterday, Sunday, I decided to try this prenatal yoga class in the North shore. As we were introducing ourselves (names, due date's, first child...) one of the students introduced herself as a "wrongful Cesarean advocate". (only in the North shore...and maybe NY and California). Well, another student introduced herself and mentioned she had a breach baby. Well, Ms. Anti-Cesarean mentioned that you could do yoga positions to make the baby move into the correct position. Everyone in the class was like "that's great! how do you do that?!" She said that you could like inverted on an ironing board (feet higher than head) or do the cat-cow position.
That felt, to me, like a bunch of bologna. So, I asked my gyno-dad if that is even possible....and, shocker of all shockers, looked at me like I was high and said "No." Okay, so doctors may be a little biased in this situation, but there are two factors that make his position a little more believable. A - he is against cesareans as a first resort...most doctors nowadays will do cesareans before any alternate means of delivery (or so he says) because they are not trained to do anything else when things get complicated...and the law suit happy society scares them into it. B - people don't sue the holistic, yoga-cures-all believers so they can say what they want as long as it makes some rational sense. (she recommended this website, which already sounds wrong: http://www.spinningbabies.com/ or how to do an inversion: http://spinningbabies.blogspot.com/2007/02/how-to-do-inversion.html) If you want to see what other holistic nonsense goes on.
This morning I had another emotional drive to work. Since Olivia can now hear inside the womb, I had some serious imagery going on about her hearing the music in the car. It really hit me this morning and I got teary. I am thinking of sending out a memo to the Office to tread lightly around the hormonal pregnant woman. I think they may know already...

Emotional? Moi?!

Uh oh. This morning I was reading an article in Fit-Pregnancy magazine regarding what to expect each week of pregnancy. As I got to the end, it started talking about enjoying those last few moments of movements inside you and I started to cry. Yesterday, our admin. asst. sent me an excerpt from her niece's blog about being a parent of a 3 month old and she was talking about waking up to her baby's smile and how that makes all of the sleeplessness seem worth it...and I cried...at work. I think I am getting exponentially more sensitive to baby stuff than I was before. I may need to buy some travel tissues. This is going to be an emotional ride from here on out.
Also, did you know that growing skin itches? Man oh man! And, before you say it...yes, I am lubing up the belly. (No stretch marks here, please).

HOW pregnant do I have to BE, exactly

Okay, so, I know it is a major faux pas to ask a woman if she's pregnant when you're not sure, but at what point is someone clearly pregnant? I was at swimming last night and there were people who were shocked that I was pregnant (and not just swimming slower than last year for the heck of it). If you look at me in a swim suit, or most clothing for that matter, I either am clearly pregnant or I have a tumor in my belly as it is disproportionately larger than the rest of my body. In all honesty, I am not complaining, I just find it entertaining what surprises people these days.







You tell me. Do I look pregnant?

Mam, thank you, mam! May I please have another?

I have found that I thank O a lot for kicking me. I guess it's because each time I get a good 'un, it reassures me that she's doing fine. It is WEIRD that it is also a reminder there is a person inside you. Weird in a good way, that is.
Yesterday I treated myself to another prenatal massage. There was a deal going on at my local spa and I took advantage. Boy, it was so fantastic. I think I am going to have to do this once a month. For the baby... This time there was no hole for the belly, I just lay on my side with pillows. Apparently they HAD that contraption and found that the side position was better. I agree. Rose, my masseuse, was AMAZING. I highly recommend her if you want a prenatal massage. I think, in fact, it was the best massage I have EVER had. Of course, it could be that I just needed to relax so badly...but I would also like to give her a shout out.
Tonight I am going to see Sisters of Mercy. No, this is not my choice of music. I am keeping John company. I am not sure what I am in for, but John tends to like the Gothic death music.
Speaking of music, since O can now hear, I have been trying to blast classical music in my car when I am driving to and fro so Olivia can get some brain stimulation. Hopefully it's doing something. I will let you know in a few years...

The Viable Phase

I am having writers block as far as how to make what happened this week literarily entertaining for you, but I do want to take note of what I did for prosperity. So, bare with me.
Wednesday night, John and I went to the hospital to take one of many upcoming seminars on pregnancy and birth (this one was all about labor and delivery). We learned about contractions, when to call the doctor, when to freak out because whatever's happening ain't good, pain med options and so on. What sticks out most to me is the epidural part. It seems to me like it's the way to go...no pain, no pain, right. But there's this little voice in the back of my head that is telling me to see what natural birth is like. I am sure I won't, in the end. Note, that if one wants to go the epidural route, it's always best to tell them early so they can pump fluids into you ASAP. But the whole not having use of my legs part kinda worries me. Clearly, it's done, but it worries me.
The next morning, it was back to the hospital again, but this time the office building to see my doc for my 24 week visit. Olivia is officially viable this week. That means she can live outside the womb. Way to go O. Anyway, as our fates aligned, my sister had an appointment at the same time. So, I got to see my adorable nephew, Connor "Con-man" AND she got to hear O's heartbeat. Everything is going well so far, heartbeat, my blood pressure, weight and belly are all on track. That's a relief that walking 13.1 miles has not had any adverse affects for me or O.
Now I have to take myself to get a glucose test or see if there are any diabetes potential. And, I got this survey thing from the doctor about donating or saving cord blood. Man, the decisions we have to make today...
Yesterday, or Friday, I spent mostly on my feet cooking. OMG, is it exhausting. I planned an elaborate dinner for my bosses and I just am coming down from the work it entailed. I was standing most of yesterday and, boy, did it make me tired. I don't usually get this worn out, but I certainly needed to take some breaks. Another thumbs down moment was watching everyone drink good wine and having to suck down O'Douls. Wine usually is the carrot at the end of a long day of cooking...but not last night. boo hoo. The good news is that my new favorite boss brought Silver Oak Cab 2002. I am not a Cab fan, but this is good sh*#. We will crack it open for delivery day.
John is having a conundrum. I think he's mostly decided to wait to 2010 to run Boston now that he has qualified, but I think there's still part of him that wants to run this upcoming marathon. I think I can do without him for a few days with a 6 week old, especially that my family is so close, but I won't be able to go with him or cheer him on. But that isn't what's causing his dilemma...it SHOULD be, but he is more worried about the six weeks of lack of sleep that will affect his training, and THEN being away from us. I am sure his priorities will change once he sees the little girl who's been playing wac-a-mole inside my belly for him, but, for now...

Rub my Belly!

So, the story begins pre-conception. I signed up to do a half marathon with John at the Outer Banks almost right before I found out I was pregnant. After I found out, I knew I would have to eat the cost of the race and just cheer on John. Well, plans kinda changed for the both of us. The day before the race, I actually contemplated walking the 13.1 miles. That should be do-able, right? John felt like I could do it, but I was not in shape for it. I wavered between definitely no and "I should take advantage of the opportunity". The thing that sealed the deal was that another girl we were staying with decided to walk it with me. The gauntlet was thrown and I was going to do it. Besides, they offered free transportation to the finish if you decided to finish early. I would definitely take advantage of that if I felt I could not go on or Olivia was getting mad at me. (She tends to push really hard on my belly when I am overdoing it.)
Four and one half hours later...I crossed the finish line. Let me tell you, it was great to do it and not give up, but four and a half hours is too long to walk...period. Parts of my legs are STILL sore. Never will I walk that much again in one go...pregnant or not. I did see way too many port-o-potties for one day too. Ick. But, I got a medal....a participation medal, but a medal.
The other thing that changes was John decided to run the full marathon instead of the half. The full runners started 20 minutes after the half people started and John caught up to me at about mile 21 (mile 8 for me). It was great to be able to participate in the race AND cheer on my hubby. (Who finished 2nd in his age group AND qualified for Boston with a finish time of 3:11:51) Way to go! I think I also deserve some props for doing it 23 weeks pregnant...
So my new thing is to have John rub my belly for luck. I am sure it's not original, but it's funny. That day, it finally paid off. BUT, Olivia is still hiding from John as far as letting him feel her move. I swear she is doing kung fu in my belly and then I have John put his hand on my belly and...nothing. I wish I could will her to perform for daddy, but that doesn't seem to work.
So, we're on our way home from the Outer Banks and after going through security I get stopped by a security person and she wants to feel my belly. In case Olivia was contraband or something. I think she abused her position to cop a feel of the belly, but, I am fine with that. I hear it's common for strangers to want to feel you up. I am still trying to decide if that will freak me out or not. I guess it depends on how crazy they look. ;-) I mean, I could not keep my hands off my friends' and sister's belly when they were pregnant, and, now myself, so, I guess I can sympathise.

Barack Obama Elected 44th US President

Last night was definitely a moment for the history books. Olivia was kicking away all during the pre- and post celebration in Grant Park. Good thing too, because she had been quiet most of the day. (Were tucked snuggly in bed during the festivities, not at the actual rally...)

That's Madam Mama to you...

You would think that the seas would part for pregnant women....well, at least the crowds of people, but I swear I just can't get no respect in some places. I first noticed this in Las Vegas...okay, not a great judge of the character people in general, but still! People will walk right into you, belly or no. Not only that, being in a male dominated career gives you no sympathy either. I mean, I don't need medical attention at this point, but the only person that seems to really speak outwardly about my growing belly is our admin. assistant. Everyone else will talk about football. That's okay...I really don't need people to worship at my altar, but I guess in the back of my mind I thought I'd get more attention than I am.
Well, there is ONE weekly refuge and that is Friday afternoon yoga. I started going there for the male instructor with the voice like buttah (and a face that made me think "Harry Potter as an adult"), but he left for greener pastures and now we have a new instructor, Luna (fitting name for a yoga instructor.) Well, Luna gave birth a year ago and Luna is always calling attention to me (the only prego in the class). She calls me Madam Mama (probably when my name slips out of her head). But I enjoy the attention and how she gives me alternatives to most of the moves I can't do. Harry Potter couldn't do that (but his voice....) Sometimes it makes me feel awkward being singled out, but in the end, I get at least one hour of acknowledgement a week. Even my husband will treat me no different than he did before.
Take last night for example. I waddle over to the couch where he was sitting and watching TV. I sit next to him and try to grab some blanket so we can snuggle (awwwww). As I am grabbing, he looks at me and does not move. I say "you should be getting up and giving me this blanket...and then a foot massage!" Okay, I was only half joking.

It's getting to be like that groundhog game

You know the one at carnivals where they pop up out of the holes and go away once you go for them...you have to guess where they're going to pop up next to get a hit. Well, Olivia was playing that game with me last night. She would kick on one side of my belly and I would put my hand there to see if I could feel it and then she would kick the other side. Sly little one, isn't she?
Well, it was great for a brief shining moment when she actually kicked in the same place more than once and John got to feel her move for the first time. There were no tears a-flowing or anything, but it's hard for the guys to understand what is going on. So, when they can feel it, it is a huge moment in pregnant-hood. I am so proud of Olivia for staying put long enough for the momentous occasion!

Buzz Kill

So, I was talking to my sister last night. I had this brilliant idea of what her baby boy, Connor, should be for Halloween. I told her she should dress him up like a Con-man (since that's what we call him)...a little black paint on his face, skull cap...black clothes. Then, she said that I should paint my belly green with a red dot on the belly button and go as an olive..for Olivia. Baby's first costume and she's not even out of the womb yet! I laughed so hard I cried at the idea. Then, I went to share the fun with John. And he didn't blink...he was like "what is the red dot for?". Wow, way to kill a mood. Good idea, though, sis! I thought it was funny.

Pisces

O is a PISCES. I wanted to write that down so I don't forget....I keep forgetting and googling...now I can just look here.

Interesting traits for Pisces...a fish...maybe she'll be a great swimmer!

The following traits are widely associated with Pisces. (Wikipedia)

(makes me excited)
gentle, good natured / easygoing, likable / kind, compassionate / sympathetic, sensitive, impractical / dreamy, instinctive / intuitive, imaginative / artistically able, versatile, spiritual, escapist, selfless.

(makes me nervous)

gullible / naive / easily led, malleable / impressionable.

Likes
Feeling appreciated, feeling loved, freedom, stability, mystical settings/enchantment, dreaming, having their input valued, being unique (we'll get along swimmingly)
Dislikes
Feeling vulnerable, having no goals to move toward, feeling invalidated, being criticized, illiteracy, noisy scenes and displays, having no sense of structure
Ideal careers
caring for the needy, as in the fields of medicine or veterinary medicine (Kata...you have a mentee), anything related to the sea (swimmer!), acting, psychics or mystics (not on my watch), religion, cooking (fingers crossed), pharmacist

Performance Anxiety

Okay, Sunday night, O was moving around and my family was over. As soon as my sister put her hand to my belly....nuthin'. Last night, she was getting all cirque du soleil up in there and as soon as I put my hand to my belly....nuthin'. It's like she's thinking "Oh shoot, they know I am here..."
Well, at least I am getting the movement. I am beginning to hate the quiet times when I am not sure what is going on. I will take what I can get ;-)

Flu Shots

I hate to get flu shots. It seems if I don't get one, I probably won't get the flu and everything will be fine. If I do get one, I get a bad cold or even a potential fever guaranteed. Well, I took myself to CVS this afternoon to get a flu shot. I am not looking forward to the sore arm and potential side effects. But, after a little harassment from my dad, mom and sister about the importance of getting one while pregnant, I decided to buck up and get it over with. I will, of course, be calling them to complain when any symptoms arise (knock on wood). If you're pregnant and decide to join team flu shot, then make sure you tell them you are prego. Apparently, there's a different flu shot for us. I guess I can see why. I failed to mention this right off the bat...although I am not hiding anything at this point...and when the nurse asked me when my last period was and I told her, May, you could see the wheels turning and the eyes a-widening. I got a minor scolding for not mentioning (the obvious).

Breastfeeding 101

So, I took myself to the hospital today to take their breastfeeding class. Most moms there were due, like, tomorrow, so I felt a little too ahead of the game. Hopefully I will retain all of this stuff, and, hopefully my breasts will NOT look like the ones I saw in the video...eek! The class was offered to husbands too, but I did not see a reason for John to come. I mean, if there is anything he needs to know, I will tell him. I am pretty glad I saved him from the images of that instructional video. I am sure I will not look like a glamazon when the time comes for my breast to engorge (fingers crossed), but I think I could feel the cringes coming from the men. Playboy it was not.
I also started to go online and register. Just things for things that I have heard recommended from friends so far. I am taking my sister and my best friend on the real excursion. Well, I could take John, but I think we need seasoned mothers here for the first go round. John can pick out the crib or something...manly.

ohhhhhhhhhh and ooooooooooooooh!

Now I get it! Apparently it's common for babies to not make too much movement during the day because mommy's moving around lulls them to sleep. So, they are born with totally opposite schedules... FANTASTIC! ;-0

Also, I received this awesome onesie in the mail yesterday from my awesome friends, Beth and Jen. We were visiting Beth in Austin pre-pregnancy and went into this shop that sold this t-shirt. All of us could not stop laughing about the crazy baby eating chicken, so when the onesie arrived in the mail yesterday, I was so excited! I cannot wait to have O wear this! AND it's pink! It's the first pink gift, so, Beth and Jen, you get the prize...most unique and first pink!

Gimme some babies!

O is a Nocturn

I am beginning to realize that Olivia may be a night owl. I don't get too much movement during the day, but as soon as I lay down to sleep, she starts banging on my belly. It's like "Hey, wake up...pay attention to me." I find it amusing, but I hope that she snaps out of it when she's born.

Olivia @ 20 Weeks

I didn't get the invite to the convention

I thought that I was so cool and unique about deciding to spend my babymoon in Vegas. That would be very very foolish of me. I have never seen so many growing bellies in one place in my life. Okay, I'll count the men too ;-) The first full day we had in Vegas, we hopped on a tour bus to the Grand Canyon via the Hoover Dam. I figure I should see the Grand Canyon at some point in my life (along with Vegas) and I checked those two off my list. At our stopover at Hoover Dam, we got out to "take our dam photos, and get our dam souvenirs" (as per our very hilarious bus driver/ tour guide, Denise.) I went in to the gift shop to look at the chotch on display and found mini license plates that had girls and boys names on them. I found one for Olivia and all of a sudden reality hit me and I had to have it. Baby's first chotch. (that's chotchky or tacky knick knacks for those of you who don't have mothers or grandmothers). I felt so close to Olivia at that moment my eyes got teary.
Then we hopped back on the bus for the Grand Canyon. After many photos and staring in wonderment at the vast expanse I realized it was a metaphor for what is about to happen to me as far as staring to a brave new world of parenthood. Deep.







Then, back to Vegas. John and I have dinner at Bouchon at the Venetian. I just had to go since it's a Thomas Keller restaurant and he's supposedly the best chef in America. His famous French Laundry restaurant in San Fran is THE mecca for foodies. It was good and I had WAY too many frites with my steak frites. Anyway, to my point... on our way back to the hotel, we passed some drunk, underage group of girls calling to their friend on the other side of the street. Guess what HER name was? Yes, Olivia. I then had another bonding moment with my baby...I freaked out that she will be a teenager one day. John even pointed out that we may want to rethink the name. Well, our other option was Siena. A lovely name and where John and I got married, but that damn actress/homewrecker kinda ruined that for me.
The next day in Vegas, John went running on the strip and I went to Spa Bellagio for my Prenatal Massage. It was a sad 50 minutes, but definitely a great experience and one that I'd recommend for any pregnant woman. The best part is the contraption you have to lie in. There is a depression for your belly. It is as amusing as you would think it would be. The only downside, besides the paltry 50 minutes was that I could not go in the steam room or Jacuzzis that looked oh so decadent and wonderfully relaxing. So, I took a long relaxing shower instead. Nope, not the same.
So, I AM definitely feeling movement down there. It currently feels like little muscle spasms in my belly. It definitely reminds me of how small Olivia still is because you can't say for sure it's a kick of just gas. Since I am not gassy, I am assuming it's the babe.
This brings me to my other story that John and I were at a tapas restaurant on Saturday night and they were playing Gypsyland (for those of you who were at my wedding, this is the music my dad and I danced to...for those of you not at the wedding, the band is like Gypsy Kings, but better (IMO). Well, the baby definitely was groovin' to the music. It makes me a proud mama to know that Olivia definitely has got some Cuban blood flowing through her veins.
Sunday night we went to see O (Cirque du Soleil). ...but it is definitely something to add to your list of things to do in your lifetime. It was amazing! I went to the bathroom as much as I could before the show. As you may or may not know, there is a pool of water involved and I just had a sinking feeling that my weak bladder would not be able to stand a whole show. Fortunately, I was fine and was able to enjoy the show from beginning to end. If you plan on going to this show, I recommend taking the aforementioned precaution if with child. Also, be warned that as you walk from this spectacular, awesome production into the casino...it really does things to one's brain so don't make any sudden movements or make any major decisions and definitely have some down time before you gamble!
All in all, Vegas was worth every overpriced-$4-cuppa-coffee-loss-of-$$-at-blackjack-ate amazing-food-saw amazing-shows-Grand Canyon and Red rocks babymoon. I realized that Vegas is also a metaphor for being a parent. Your money seems to evaporate, but in the end, if you forget how much you spent, you realize what a wonderful, exciting experience it was.

And let there be pink

It's a girl! Well, the ultrasound tech, Julie is 90-95% sure it's a girl... After much waiting, we went through every possible angle of the baby and she finally told us that there are no boy parts (or they could be ...uh...tucked).
Olivia it is! Now let the frenzy begin to think of a middle name. I am taking suggestions.
I can't wait to have her start a running regime with John and bake with me. She has yet to know the joys of the breadmaker ;-)

More later, when I get to scan the US photos and after I get back from VEGAS...baby.

The BIG day...well, the second BIG day

Today is the day girls and boys, when I find out whether I am having a girl or a boy. It also happens to be my sister's birthday, so happy birthday, Christine! (that's Chrissy to me).
I was hoping to be able to work from home because I am going crazy here at the office with only my coworker's allergies to listen to. I had to come in for a last minute meeting ...boooooooo. At least I will not have to sit here for much longer staring at the computer wondering how best to make the time go by faster.
I told my baby this morning that I was excited to see him/her again and find out what he/she is (I can't wait to stop using this male/female deal.) Didn't get much of a reaction...so I'll have to wait and see.
Last night I went swimming again. Let me just tell you how weird it is to do flip turns knowing there is someone going along for the ride. I laughed with my sister when she was learning to do flip turns while pregnant..that the baby was going "weeeeee" inside her. I hope that's what is happening... I sometimes wonder if the baby feels different when I am swimming...different good. It's funny to be so concerned now about this where I didn't used to be. Hey, I am not complaining...
Not to mention I look horrible in a swim suit now. Yikes. I am not the cute pregnant girl with the little growing beach ball. No, from below my breasts (not growing by much by the way) to my hips, I am just expanding. I guess that comes with being short...there's not much space for everything to go. It just ruins my fantasies about having the cute little beach ball belly (and bigger breasts).
This may be too much information this morning, but please understand the verbal diarrhea is just to make the time go by faster. I think I just killed a whole three minutes. Suhweet.

Waddle Waddle

OMG, I am starting to waddle. I noticed it this weekend, and who knows how long it's been going on.

XOXO
pregnant girl

Also, I think I have felt the baby moving. I can't tell because it seems it shouldn't be moving where I am feeling the movements, but who knows. Either way it's not pronounced enough or consistent enough to know for sure. I have about two more days of not knowing and then I get my ultrasound. I really really hope this time flies. I know it will be a distant memory shortly, but I am not on that end of the rainbow yet.

And I thought I was the one doing the yoga

I got this image sent to me from babycenter.com this morning to show how my baby looks at 19 weeks. My initial thought was "that looks uncomfortable". Then I thought about the yoga I have been doing lately and now I feel a little less flexible than I did yesterday...it also explains why I can't feel the baby moving (you try kickboxing in that position!)

Speaking of yoga, I finally went to an actual PRENATAL yoga class this past Saturday. I was the only one there, so I got a private lesson. I had low expectations about the whole thing because most prenatal anything is geared toward women who have never worked out before and want to start now. I was pleasantly surprised. I got some great stretchy moves for every sore part of my increasingly flaccid body. I don't do much besides yoga lately and my cardiovascular is down to whatever not much is. I am looking forward to starting master swimmers tonight. That will give me some focus and excuse to do more to burn calories. My diet has not changed much..for better and worse than since I was training for a half ironman. I am not "eating for two", but I am eating for an athlete who burns way more calories than I. So far I am on a good track for weight gain, but I feel the proverbial shoe about to drop.

I am still not feeling much, but am taking comfort in the fact that those sharp shooting pains I get when I get up too quickly or laugh to hard are totally normal...my innards stretching to accommodate my growing fetus and all. I still can't wait... a week and one day to the ultrasound.

My husband is running the marathon this Sunday. I can't wait to cheer him on and watch him achieve this amazing accomplishment he's worked so hard for. I am a little nervous about finding a rest stop at the various spectating locations.... But enough about me.

To Pee or not to Pee

I am sure that I am not the first pregnant lady to come up with that beaut.
Please, someone tell me how a 5.5 inch long person can make a sip of water feel like an ocean in my bladder almost immediately?
T minus less than two weeks until my next ultrasound. I really really want time to go faster. There is not much going on "down there" for me to rest assured everything is as it should be. I am anxious to start feeling the reassuring movements of the baby..which, I have about another two weeks. Not fair, man, not fair.

Tiger Woods

My baby played golf in utero today...in the crappy rainy weather. Top that!
(Okay, so I sucked, but I blame it on being off balance due to the extra weight in my belly.)

Body Pillows, Slow Cooker Kudos and Running Woes

Apparently pregnancy makes you a poet.
Okay, I have to give a shout out to the body pillow. I remember Kata telling me this is a must-have for a pregnant woman and I finally got around to buying one at monopolies r us. The one I got was the only one on display and probably not the most affordable, but worth every penny! It has a hook shape on both ends for the head/shoulders and feet. I don't know how I survived without this! Even without a growing belly, this is the most comfortable way to sleep (for me)! I can't believe I waited this long to get one. Put it on your list as soon as you get the pregnancy confirmed, ladies!
I made dinner yesterday from two slow cookers. Coq Au Vin and French Onion Soup. Two dishes that might have taken hours to make, I just threw all of the ingredients in the slow cookers in the morning and walked out the door. I have had these babies (one is actually a combination rice cooker, and the other crock pot came with John) since 2005 and I have not put them to use. Another late blooming regret. So, I had fears about leaving something cooking all day and coming home to a fireplace, but I came home to a great smelling kitchen and some awesome meals that I served to my family. No fuss after work. I can dig it. I can see this coming in very handy when I have a baby in tow. I am adding slow cookers to my obsession list (along with the breadmaker).
Running...apparently I can't do it anymore. What was a once-a-week deal for me since I had a person sitting on my bladder, has now become something I am going to have to avoid. I was on a treadmill last week running at 5.5 mph. This is extremely slow for me and a pace that I felt good running. Out of curiosity, I put my hands on the heart monitor sensors and it was 168! I am supposed to stick to a 140 (which is ridiculous, but 168 is way too high!!!) That freaked me out. To top it all off, I felt I had to pee every two minutes. This does not make for a fun exercise activity. It's yoga, swimming and prenatal DVD's for me. (Thank goodness for Netflix! )

Baby ate well last night

This is the only time I am taking my kid to a fancy restaurant ;-) I finally got to take advantage of my bonus for getting licensed (last year). The bonus was $500 toward (originally travel) a fancy meal. I spent all but a few dollars of it at Avenues last night with John. We had the 15 course menu with a nice Neyers Zin. Yes, baby had some wine last night. But I will only stray for the best...and isn't it a sin to have a fine meal without wine?

I wish I could run down the list of what I had, but it was beyond my culinary ken. I did sacrifice some meat for the baby. I had my meats cooked medium. Oh, the looked so sad compared to John's bright red juicy pieces of lamb. Most of the 15 courses were phenomenal in my opinion. I could have gone without the Japanese grainy thing with Manchego milk. One wonders what Manchego milk is, well, it's something you can live your life not knowing. But I was so full, I couldn't even make it through the final, chocolate dish. I KNOW! I just couldn't do it...even for chocolate.

Another amusing factoid about eating fancy while pregnant is that you have to pee a lot. AND, they don't let you seat yourself. Every time I came out of the restroom someone from the restaurant would jump in front of me and walk me to my seat. I didn't like having others know my lack of bladder control. I was tempted to just run in front of them and seat myself. Maybe they'd get the hint...

I was looking for the menu online and the best I could find was an outdated version and this (http://curtisduffy.blogspot.com/2008_08_01_archive.html) the chef's blog. It shows some images of a few of the dishes, so you get an idea.

This experience was well worth it. I am happy that I had it, but it is not something I think I will ever need to do again. Especially when it is on my dime ;-)

Thursday night I spent with the ladies from GBS. Through facebook, I was able to reconnect with some fabulous females from my past...and Renata who is as pregnant as I am. Baby and I had Korean BBQ for the first time and it was yummy. I think my baby needs to be a chef with all of this cuisine he/she is experiencing vicariously. Also, if I ever get the urge for fine dining again, I can just have jr make it. Anyway, this blog is about being pregnant, not food.... right? So, we caught up on the latest gossip and I learned that I have so much to learn about babies and baby products. There is this nesting phase I am supposed to go through where the baby room should be done by now, but John and I just started talking about where we'd put the crib in our office/second bedroom. I just started being able to go into babies r us without feeling totally out of my element. I hope there's a huge learning curve for this stuff.

Anyway T minus 24 days to THE ultrasound....

Waiting to exhale....

Today I had a doctor's visit and everthing looks and sounds normal. BIG EXHALE.
It's amazing how slowly time goes by when you are aching to hear your baby's heartbeat. Since I can't feel it move yet (for sure) I never know if that time I bumped my belly into a door or sneezed to hard did anything to the babe. It feels like it sometimes when I sneeze or move too quickly I can feel some pain down there.
My next visit is October 15th...same day as my sister's birthday. Do you KNOW what that visit entails?!?! 20 week visit, baby (is that a pun?)! Ultrasound to see if it's Nathaniel or Olivia. Yes, those are the names we are warming up to so...only comment on them if they are positive. Otherwise, you will be on my s- list. Even my mom likes the names, so if you don't then you have no idea how picky you are and you should see someone about it.
So, I can rest easy...that will probably last a week if I am luck and then I will start counting down the days, T minus October 15.
The day after we find out, we leave for Vegas, baby. A "babymoon", as it is known in the biz. The last hurrah while you don't have kids to worry about. I have some great food and Cirque d'O to look forward to. October will be an exciting month!

Week 15 - Barefoot and Pregnant

I was the epitome of a wifey this weekend. While babysitting my cute little nephew, I decided to knock off some ironing when he was napping. My sister came back for a short while and caught me ironing while John was watching the opening games of football. It was truly a portrait, I must imagine. She immediately pointed out what I hadn't noticed...that I was, literally, barefoot and pregnant and doing chores. Yikes. I can't let that be a habit. ;-0
I am playing golf today. I am not looking forward to being painfully aware of how much I suck at the sport...without some liquid courage to get me through the day. I wish it would rain, but it's actually perfect weather. Of COURSE it is.
I have not mentioned this before, but I am officially in my second trimester. This is the best of the trimesters because the hormones are no longer making me ill. I am still more tired than usual.. And I cannot be comfortable in any sleeping position for longer than a minute. So that makes falling asleep a chore. I can't wait until it actually SHOULD be a chore, when I have some real weight on my belly...if I am already having problems now.

14 weeks + 3 days = My pants no longer fit

I am not sure if it's the massive amounts of food I ate this weekend at Wendy's absolutely fabulous wedding, or my baby's growing (hope it's the latter). I have to unzip my pants like a guy watching the football game...only I am at work ;-0 I bought my first pair of prego-pants on Tuesday. They are a little slice of heaven for me right now, but I don't think I can get away with wearing them every day... or can I?

I'll have the combination platter

Diane: So, do you know what you're having?
Me: Yeah, I am going to get the combination platter.

Everyone chuckles

John: It's too early to tell.

Apparently Diane was asking if I knew what the sex of the baby was yet. Let's all collectively hope I don't get a combination platter. ;-) BUT, in my defense, we were at a restaurant and hadn't ordered yet!!

Yesterday my dad took me to his office to check the baby's heartbeat. I had a bout of who know's what earlier this week and broke out in a rash all over my body. Probably a reaction to some food. (rashes from contact are usually local). I WAS not worried becuase my dad WAS not worried earlier in the week, but he called on Thursday to tell me I should go to the doctor and have her listen tot he heartbeat just to make sure. Since the nurse never called me back, my dad offered to take me to his office. Lucky me, I get another ultrasound. I just thought we were going to take a listen, but I get to see my bundle of joy again. I won't turn down that opportunity. The poor little one had the hiccups so it would be floating along and then bounce up...I didn't know they could get hiccups so early. It looks so funny on the ultrasound screen. I can't help but laugh, although the baby probably doesn't think it's funny.

A good visual

I wish I could credit the cartoonist, but I got this in an e-mail. Rather appropriate timing....

Is my heart skipping a beat?

There is this new phenomena going on inside me that feels like my heart is fluttering. I THINK it's the baby moving, although I don't know for sure. If it IS the baby moving, it is moving a LOT.

"If it kicks you when crossing its legs...

It must be a girl."
It took me a while to get what John was saying. What?! Men don't cross their legs? Well, they probably do it less in the U.S. ... Actually, where he was coming from is that he has been the victim of the girls on my side of the family kicking him under the table when their legs are crossed. So, it's rather humorous to think that this would be a tell tale sign of the sex of our baby. Too bad I don't have an ultrasound machine to test that theory.
Just this week, I found out my friend, Renata is due two days after me. That really is so fascinating. We, unbeknownst to eacother, were also married about a week apart. I am so happy for her and now I know who to bug while I am on maternity leave.
Last night I went to Ravinia with John, Sarah and her husband, Mike. We saw Tony Bennett. It was a great concert. I don't fancy myself a fan of the genre of music, but there is something magical about a gorgeous evening, Tony and good food and friends. I didn't even miss the fact that I had no wine to top of the memorable night.
The man is 82 and can still belt out them tunes. He's got some secret of youth, and is still the coolest cat on the block. I don't normally speak about people like that, but this is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear him. "be-YOO-tiful".
So, what does this have to do with the baby? I hope some of that coolness was absorbed into my belly. ;-)

08.20.08 It's a BABY! @12 weeks + 2 days

Today I had a down syndrome screening. This is an optional screening, but you get a bonus ultrasound, so I am all in. They told me to arrive with a full bladder. I took this to heart. I was in PAIN waiting for the nurse to come get me to do the ultrasound. She was impressed with how full my bladder was. Apparently I was above average...but not next time, I assure you. I don't want to be that full again! Anyway, everything looked and sounded normal. I cannot get enough of seeing this babe AND hearing the heartbeat. It makes everything real! John was there with me, holding my hand. The lab tech could not seem to get a good head profile picture (for the nose bone) because the baby was moving around so much. She actually hit me in the belly, WITH my very full bladder, to get the baby to move into a good viewing position. I hope this baby appreciates what I went through. Well, I GUESS it was worth it to see our little one. ;-) The legs were crossed, so John thinks it's a girl. If the Chinese calendar has anything to say about it, it IS a girl. I will be happy either way... healthy is all I want! So far, everything looks and sounds as it should. (big sigh of relief).

Another, less important, big sigh of relief comes from the fact that I only gained 2.5 pounds so far. I was worried with my slothesque behavior as of late, that I would have blown the 3-5 pounds you're supposed to gain in the first trimester. Not yet. Who knows, the breadmaker may ruin me ;-)

08.17.08 - Pamper Natalie Day

First of all, there were many birthdays this past week. Happy Birthday to Jen, Kayla, Beth and Penny! I hope they were all absolutely fabulous!

I am treating myself to a facial today. There is a $20 off at the local spa if you book on a Sunday and you bet your bottom that I am taking advantage. I could have gotten a massage, because my body feels like it's falling apart, but the thought of it right now does not appeal to me. I guess the prenatal massages are for the last two trimesters and I don't want to be on my stomach right now. Another sign I am prego. I point out these "signs" because all I look like right now is I am pudgy and can't hold my stomach in. So not attractive, but not evidently pregnant.

I also got a bread machine from Donna, my brother-in-law's mom. She was selling it at the Thompson garage sale this past week and I got it for free. Boy oh boy am I addicted to making all things bread now. Bread machines are too easy. So far I have made italian wheat bread, french baguettes and, for this morning, homemade cinnamon rolls. Unfortunately I only bought a three pack of yeast, so I have to stop there until my next trip to the grocery store. I wasn't sure how much bread I would make, and it looks like I may need to be buying yeast in bulk at the rate I am going. It's good I am not a low carb gal. Of course, I may be the size of a house sooner rather than when I am supposed to be. The house smells fantastic, as you can imagine.

08.11.08 - 11 Weeks

Just wanted to post it's 11 weeks today.
I tried on some growing-belly-friendly clothes this weekend. The bump is there...or it's the usual unflattering lighting. My new thing is flexible waste.
Next week will be the exciting part as I have another ultrasound on Wednesday.

08.08.08 Cubs top Cardinals 3-2 in 11 innings

Baby's first cubs game and they pull out a win! Mommy's first dry cubs game ;-(

I was invited to a rooftop party by our favorite roofing contractor company, Bennett and Brosseau (plug alert). My first game where the food and drinks are FREE and I get to suck down water and sprite. Well, at least they WON!!

I also made a Argentinian feast last night for my parents, sister and Diane and Ralph (family friends). It went off well as I got many compliments and, what I thought was too much food, was almost gone by the end of the evening. This is probably a first for me where I don't make way too much food (or it's so good people keep eating). I made skirt steak with chimichurri, chicken empanadas, mushroom & spinach empanadas, tomato salad, french fries (courtesy of my dad. Thanks dad.) and for desert: milhojas argentinas (puff pastry, grilled pineapple and dulce de leche). Yum! I am writing this down in case I find I don't have time to cook these feasts once baby comes. I want proof I once entertained with the best of them ;-)

Yesterday was also the opening day for the Summer Olympics in Beijing. It was quite a show. Tons of costumes and some that even lit up. People dancing upside down... (There is a reason I did not go into journalism, this stuff is hard to describe.) The bird's nest stadium looked cool. My dad said the construction was fascinating. Apparently there was a special on the telly that I missed. Boo hoo. I'll have to look it up myself.

Momnesia

My brother-in-law mentioned the existence of this phenomena (through experience with my sister). Today I am sans wedding rings. Yesterday, I totally forgot something mentioned at a meeting and I totally revealed myself by asking about it later. The other day I was so proud of myself that I remembered my cell phone, but I walked out the door without my keys. This is not a good trend. I am glad I got the licensure exams over with, let's just put it that way.

Freddie Kruger Dreams

I am having more vivid dreams lately. Not pleasant ones. These hormones make me dream the stuff horror films are made of. Why can't I dream of ponies and rainbows?

FOOD cravings

I haven't craved anything strange up to now. But, the foods I love, sushi and Indian, I crave on a daily basis. Of course, I am sticking to the california and veggie rolls, but it will get me through these next 7 months.
For a short while I was not in the mood to cook. This was not good. Thankfully, this week, I am making some more creative dishes to revive my passion for food and put a little variety in what I actually enjoy eating lately. I am making an Argentine feast on Friday.

08.06.08 10 Weeks + 2 days

The day after I found out I was pregnant, I was running a 10 mile race. So, I had a great excuse to go slow and stop at all of the water stations. It was surreal. As soon as the gun went off I started running and got choked up. It is overwhelming thinking that I was running for two now. Since the 10 mile race, I have run a 5k. So, baby's already got the racing blood flowing through him/her. I hope he/she gets John's running ability and my swimming.
Here are our race results for the two races:
Baby's first 10 miler bib no. 171, sex place 13 F 30-34, chip time1:28:40.94, pace 8:54/M (my best pre-baby race is about 1 hour 20 mins)
Baby's first 5k ","F","31","26:38" (8:35/M pace) (I think my best 5k is just under or over 22 mins)

No more races planned during the pregnancy. I was going to run the Outerbanks Half Marathon, but I will be too pregnant for that one. Obviously the half ironman came and went. I deferred to next year. What a great way to lose the baby weight, no?

08.04.08 - 10 Weeks

I can't believe I have reached the 10 week point. 30 more to go. I am not feeling nauseous at this point, but excedingly hungry and tired. The hungry part is not different for me. The tired part is rough. I am probably paying for staying out until 2am last Saturday for Wendy's bachelorette party. I am paying for it today and I can't even coffee myself out of this coma. I can tell I am pregnant because (A) I don't really like the taste of coffee now and (B) I am not desirous of my other favorite beverage, wine. These are all good things, I guess. My body is helping me grow a healthy little babe.
So far the only reason people know I am "in the family way" is because I have told everyone. Yes, I am not even out of my first trimester and I blabbed. I read in the idiot's guide to pregnancy that you can tell as soon as you see the heartbeat. Good, because I would not have survived 3 more weeks of silence. I am so happy to be pregnant. I can't wait to see what a combination of John and me looks like.