Birth Story

August 15, 2012

I went to the doctor today for my last appointment! It looks like we might be having this baby sooner rather later. The c-section is scheduled for Monday but my blood pressure was high and I had protein in my urine so they want to monitor my urine and BP overnight and if it doesn't go down, my doctor wants to do the c-section Friday or Saturday. I thought for sure it wasn't that big of deal. Surely it can wait a couple of days? I guess not. I'm excited to meet this little guy...whenever it is!

August 20, 2012

We woke-up very early this morning. We had to call Labor and Delivery at 5am to make sure it was okay to still come. It was! We had to be at the hospital at 6am. We arrived on time and took a moment to try and take in everything that was about to happen. We got to our room and my nurse started my IV and I signed consent papers. I got changed and then just waited. Sam was moving like crazy! He would not be still! It was like he knew what was about to happen.

Then, about a million residents, interns, med students came in and introduced themselves as having some part of my surgery. I'm always willing to be a guinea pig for education but it was a little overwhelming and I just trusted that the rookies would be heavily supervised. Enter Dr. Draper. Finally a face I recognized and I was instantly at ease. That man is a saint! He is amazing at what he does and I am so grateful he agreed to be my doctor. After a little more waiting, my nurse came to get me and I kissed Michael goodbye as were temporarily separated because they don't let dads come in until after the epidural.

I was so nervous about the spinal. I was shaking. My nurse was so great and held my hand and rubbed my arm. I was worried about nothing. I barely felt anything. It was an odd, warm sensation down my legs and they instantly got heavy. They quickly got me on the table and draped me. I was so freaked out that my anesthesia might not work. I've had issues in the past with anesthesia and I was terrified when they said they were about to cut. Michael wasn't in the room yet when the doctor asked for a blade. Enter Michael. Ah, relief. He made me calm down instantly. I wish I can describe how amazing my husband was that day. He was so attentive to me in the most perfect way. I don't know how he was feeling on the inside at the time but he was so calm. He kept me updated with what was going on behind the drape and reassured me that everything was going great.

I felt nothing but pressure. Oh, the pressure! Wow! I couldn't believe how much pressure there was. It was an uneasy feeling knowing how hard the were pulling and stretching but not feeling it. It felt like my insides exploded. I wasn't prepared for the pressure. In a way, it hurt but it was fine. Then, they finally told me there was going to be A LOT of pressure and someone was literally putting all their body weight on my belly and I knew Sam would be here any second. I instantly felt the release and heard his sweet, little cry. I began to cry as I could not believe he was here. I couldn't see him but he was here! From then on, it felt like Michael was in two places at once because he was holding my hand and telling me everything they were doing and he was able to be with Sam. I never felt alone. The first thing he said to me was that, "he has hair! Lots of brown, curly hair!". I was shocked because I would have bet a lot of money he was going to be bald. I told Michael to go over and be with Sam while they cleaned him up. He went to be with him while I told the anesthesiologist that I was feeling nauseous. I think I asked if my uterus was out on my belly because I knew that is when you tend to get a little nauseous. They told me yes, indeed, it was. Michael came back over to me and so sincerely said, "he is really cute, baby...he is so cute". I said, "really?!". This is funny to us because we joked almost the entire pregnancy that he was going to be ugly and we should prepare ourselves. We were honestly surprised that he was a good looking baby. I know, we are horrible. I have no idea why but I inquired about how his ears looked. I was never really worried or cared what his ears looked like but for some reason, all doped up, it was important to me.

Sam only cried a few times and this was a problem. The pediatricians needed him to cry and he wouldn't. He was quietly whimpering  He had fluid in his lungs and they were suctioning him like crazy. Michael came over to me and told me he was doing great and that they were just trying to get the fluid out and trying to get him to cry. I kept asking if he was okay and I was assured that he was. I later learned that everyone was sugar coating the situation so I didn't freak out. He was going to be fine but he wasn't really at the time. His sats were dropping and they had to put a c-pap on him. I was waiting for them to bring him to me but they didn't. They told me before I went in that I would be able to do skin-to-skin in the O.R. as long as he was doing well. Michael was so calm and kept telling me what they were doing and finally told me that they needed to take him to the nursery just to watch him. I wasn't going to get to hold him yet. I was fine with this. I just wanted him to be okay. They handed Sam to Michael and let him bring him to me so I could see him and kiss him quickly before they took him. He was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in my life. I could not get over how cute he was. I just could not believe he was ours. I still can't. I love him so much, it almost hurts.

Our First Kiss

Michael was whisked away with our baby and I was finishing get stitched and stapled. Things were a little fuzzy after that and I was tired! They wheeled me back to the delivery room and my parents and Michael's parents came in. I told them they could go to the nursery to see Sam and I was left all by my lonesome which was okay because I was fuzzy and lightheaded. I was just laying there waiting for them to wheel him in to me so I could breastfeed and do some skin-to-skin. My nurse was great and kept calling the nursery to see if they would bring him. She calmly said he was not ready yet. I can't remember what he said exactly but Michael kept calling my cell phone and updating me about how Sam was doing. Generally, the message was that he was not crying and he needed to cry to get the fluid out but he was doing fine. Later I learned that they said he might need to go to the NICU if he couldn't keep his sats up but he was a champ. It never came to that. Michael just now told me he had a hard time keeping his sats above 88 for the first hour and was grunting a lot. His sats got progressively better over the next couple of hours but he still was not crying and rather than take him to the NICU, they agreed to do a chest x-ray to see if he had pneumonia. He had little fluid in his lungs but nothing that concerned them as long as his oxygen saturation was above 90.

Proud Grandparents

They transferred me to my maternity room without seeing Sam still. I was sad that it was taking so long but later I was grateful it turned out the way it did. I was so groggy and tired and just plain out of it, I don't think I would remember much about those first exchanges. They wheeled me past the nursery so I could see him and Michael was in there and held my baby boy up to the window. He looked really good except he was so quiet and limp but he was doing well. He was so cute with his perfect head and cherry lips. I couldn't wait to get my hands on him. I got to the room and was reunited with my parents and Michael's parents. They were updating me about what was happening but I don't remember what they told me. I was in my room for about 15 minutes and they finally let Michael bring him to me. It had been over 3 hours since the delivery. Michael wheeled in the bassinet and handed him to me. His eyes were closed and he was so tiny (another shocker, we anticipated him being HUGE). I snuggled him closely and said, "hi baby boy!" and he immediately opened his eyes, turned his head and looked right at me as if he was saying, "hey, I know you! I know that voice. You're my mom". It was the most precious moment of my life. I fell in love. I was a mom. I'm a mom. I'm a mom. Crazy! The four days in the hospital were so special. I think of his birthday like my wedding day and the days in the hospital were like the honeymoon. It was the beginning of our little family and the three of just had love fest for four days.

Our first meeting. "Hi, baby boy!"

Did the last four years really happen? Yes, it did. And we are better parents for it. I know this little guy is so special and was saved to come to our family at this particular time. We are so grateful that the Lord blessed us with this precious life and we can't wait to show him the world!



*Did I mention that we had an amazing photographer to capture the entire day? She was able to come into the O.R. which is rare. What an amazing gift to have everything documented without Michael feeling like he needed to be glued to a camera. He was able to just be in the moment with me. Check her out...brookefrancophotography.com.

Introducing...

Samuel Collin Hall

8/20/2012

7lb 7oz

7:57am

We are so in love. Birth story to follow...

37 Weeks...Full term!!

37 weeks!!!

How far along? 37 weeks exactly!
Total weight gain?  20lbs. I did not gain any weight the last two weeks which is nice since I gained four the last time. It's all evening out I think.

Sleep? When I am sleeping, I sleep well. It's just the many potty breaks and readjusting that keeps from sleeping through the night. Last night I was awakened by that elusive toothache! This is the fourth time this pregnancy that I have had the same toothache. Luckily, not much longer until this baby is out and hopefully whatever is causing it will go away.

Best moment of the week?  The last ultrasound and getting the c-section scheduled! He looks so smashed in there! We couldn't really see anything great but he was measuring right on track...to the day. He is not gigantic yet...so they predict. My placenta did end up moving a little bit but not enough to make him feel comfortable about letting me go naturally. He said if I was dead-set on having a vaginal birth, he would let me try. If he would have asked me a couple of months ago, I would have said yes, definitely. No c-section! But, he gave us the odds of 50% chance of it ending in a c-section anyway and hemorrhaging and I was not comfortable with those odds. He said if it was his daughter and grandchild, he would just go for the scheduled c-section. So we are scheduled! He said because of the placement of the placenta, he is comfortable letting me go to 38 weeks! At first I was disappointed and dreading finishing my shifts at work but I'm glad now. The longer he can stay in, the better for him. So, Baby Boy Hall officially arriving AUGUST 20, 2012! Yay!! We go to have blood drawn and fluids the night before and have to be at the hospital at 6am the next morning. We are so excited, we can't stand it!

Miss anything?  No, I really don't. I am just going to try and focus on enjoying having my baby boy with me all the time. Bittersweet times. 

Movement? Still all the time. He is more active in the evenings than in the mornings which stresses me out a little when I wake-up. I am totally going to miss feeling his little butt sticking out and his feet in my ribs. It really is too bad I don't get have a vaginal birth. He is ready! He has been head down for the last 2 months!

Food cravings? Lemonade and hot dogs. Weird. They just always sound good.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope, I have felt really good this week.

Labor signs? I wish. I have decided the pain I have been feeling is round ligament pain. Yikes! Stops me in my tracks. I keep joking I have been trying to make my water break. It's not working. I would love it if he decided to make his debut at earlier than expected!

Gender?  BOY!

Symptoms? I have been wondering if he's dropped because the heartburn has been a little better but doctor doesn't think so. People keep telling me I look a little lower but I can't tell.

Happy or Moody? Happy and excited! I can't wait to see what this little guy looks like and hold him. Nine days or less!!

Looking forward to...?  This week being over and getting this kid here! I can't wait to hear his cry and bring him home and to officially become our new little family.

Realization of the week? We will be a family of three!! It's been me and Michael for so long and I have loved it but I can't wait to bring this sweet boy into our family and see how we rise to the occasion. I can't wait to see Michael as a dad. He is going to be awesome.

36 Weeks!

How far along? 36 weeks 3 days
Total weight gain?  20lbs+. We shall see tomorrow. I wouldn't be surprised if it was another 4 lbs.

Sleep? Okay, sleeping is getting harder. It's mostly just waking up...a lot! I've had a couple of people tell me I look like I'm carrying lower and I have been wondering that myself since I wake up every hour or two to pee. 

Best moment of the week?  The nursery is finished, clothes are washed, bags are packed and we are ready for this little guy!!  I can't wait to hold him and snuggle him in less than a week (hopefully).

Miss anything?  Not yet but I think I will! This is a bittersweet time for me. I am going to miss being pregnant like crazy. I'm not going to pretend it's all roses, especially lately but I love it! The sweet part is that I don't have to endure the last three weeks of pregnancy, which I am told are the most miserable. I seem to be more and more uncomfortable during the day than I am sleeping. 

Movement? He might be slowing down a bit but he is so active still...and huge! If he has dropped, it hasn't stopped him from sticking his feet in my ribs all the time. I love it! 

Food cravings? I did go and get a piece of cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. I ate it over three days. It was very rich but very yummy. I have to say something about cravings. If I give in to whatever I want, it's not nearly as satisfying as I would have hoped. Good thing I have not had a lot of cravings.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope, I have felt really good this week.

Labor signs? No? Sometimes I think I have contractions but I'm not sure and I have been told I would know if they were really contractions.

Gender?  BOY!

Symptoms? Heartburn, heartburn, heartburn. It's been a little better the last few days but it still creeps up on me. I also have started to have lower back pain, mostly after I work. It's takes me a day or two to recover from it. I feel lucky that it's just now starting. All-in-all I feel pretty lucky as it is. I have had a great pregnancy with not much to complain about.

Happy or Moody? Happy...for the most part. I did have a melt down this week about the house not being clean or finished or perfect. I realized I was being irrational at the time and Michael just took it. I felt bad. I think I ruined his day.

Looking forward to...?  That last ultrasound on Wednesday. I can't wait!!

Realization of the week? This is it...less than a week. I can't wait.
Some interesting tid-bits about my baby body...

• My belly button is still an innie. It's flattening out but it's still definitely in. 
• It's hot but I have not had a lot of issues with swelling. There was one day when my wedding ring was really tight and my toes swell sometimes but mostly it hasn't been a problem. Actually, as we speak my wedding ring is a little tight. I might have some issues if I was able to go three more weeks. 
• I do not have any stretch marks. I thought I might not because my mom never had any. I put lotions on my belly religiously but I know that it's all genetics. Thanks, mom! 
• I don't have the linea negra (the black line) on my belly. It happens in three-quarters of all pregnancies. Not mine I guess. I wonder if it might show up if I was able to go to term. 
• I haven't noticed my hair being thicker but it grows so much quicker as well as my nails. Michael is kind enough to clip my nails because I hate doing it. It's like nails on a chalk board for me.
• If you notice in pictures, I have cholasma or "the mask of pregnancy". It's hyperpigmentation of the skin on the face. Awesome. I have actually had it since I started birth control before I got married. I was thinking for a long time that it hasn't gotten worse since I got pregnant but I think it has...especially on my forehead. I have tried to treat it in the past but it was recommended that I not do anything expensive until I was done having kids.
• Looking back, I think my boobs have gotten smaller over the last couple of months? Or maybe that's wishful thinking and my bigger belly just makes them look smaller? Either way, my boobs are bigger...enough said.
• I love my pregnancy body, especially my belly. I could go naked everywhere if it were appropriate. Not because I think my body is in any way attractive but because it feels so good to not have anything on my body. It's really hot all.the.time. I will miss this body for sure but I'm excited to be able to breathe and sit comfortably again!

35 Weeks!!...

35 Weeks! Why do I look exhausted all the time?

How far along? 35 weeks 1 day
Total weight gain?  20lbs+. I gained 4lbs in just two weeks. I certainly hope it's me and not him. Just yet another reason to suspect that he is big.

Sleep? I am sleeping okay. Nothing has really changed in this department. I pee a couple of times a night and wake-up to re-position. Still, generally a pretty good sleeper.

Best moment of the week?  Every day closer is the best moment. I still love feeling him and I am trying to connect with him as much as possible before he is here. I have this irrational fear that he won't like me or that because of the c-section, we won't be able to bond like we would have if I was having a natural delivery. I know, I said I was being irrational. I just hope he knows I am his mama.

Miss anything?  I really don't. I am trying to really enjoy every minute because the clock is winding down. We are so close and it's getting bittersweet. I will miss being pregnant. As far as anyone knows, this may be the only time I get to be pregnant so I am holding on and cherishing every moment.

Movement? Still no signs of slowing down. I now know for a fact that he is huge. When he moves, he seems very long. He is probably chubby too. At my appointment this week, the midwife measured me. She usually will make a comment like, "right on track". She said nothing this week and I asked her if she could feel how big he was. She said she didn't want to say anything to stress me out even more but I am measuring big now. I have always been right on schedule but I was measuring 36 weeks at 34.5 weeks. She said she thinks I am going to have big one. I have started thinking an early c-section is not such a bad thing. I had a dream that he came out the size of a toddler. It was really funny and I am obviously obsessed by his size. Really, I just want him to be healthy.

Food cravings? Still cheesecake! Cheesecake Factory is having half-priced slices this week. I just might go get one.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope, I have felt really good this week.

Labor signs? None, I think. I have had this groin pain off and on. I don't think they are contractions but they stop me in my tracks.

Gender?  BOY!

Symptoms? Just mostly the same heartburn and reflux. I'm ready for that to be over with. I have talked to a few people who said that it never went away after birth. Yikes! I'm saying lots of prayers that mine does.

Happy or Moody? Happy!! Happy!! Happy!! It's getting so close!

Looking forward to...?  That last ultrasound on the 8th. We have been in this "wait and see" mode for over three months now and it will be nice to know what is going to happen, definitively. I will be really happy either way. We also have the last of our baby showers. We have been so spoiled. We have great friends and family. Michael's work is throwing one and the fine women of my Primary Presidency is also hosting one. So nice of everybody.

Realization of the week? Only 6 more shifts until he is here (pending my placenta stays put)!! I think I can,  I think I can, I think I can. My maternity leave papers are all submitted and I am ready to go as soon as he is.

33 & 34 Weeks!

33 weeks!

34 Weeks! I feel like I have gotten huge!!

How far along? 34 weeks 1 day
Total weight gain?  16lbs+. We will see officially this week!

Sleep? I am still sleeping okay. I wake up a lot. A few times to pee and a few times to turn to my other side. I am looking forward to sleeping on my back again. Reflux got so bad last night that it kept me up until almost 4am and threw-up a few times. It's only gotten that bad a couple of times and I am hoping that it doesn't happen again.

Best moment of the week?  Getting through my shifts and finally getting the nursery organized. Thank goodness my mom was here. She pretty much did everything. I got really overwhelmed with how much stuff one little creature needs! All of his clothes are washed and put away, his bathroom is clean and organized. I really want to post pictures of the nursery but we are waiting for the chair cushion to be done and I don't want to take pictures until it's completely done.

Miss anything?  I really don't. I am trying to really enjoy every minute because the clock is winding down. We are so close and it's getting bittersweet. I will miss being pregnant. As far as anyone knows, this may be the only time I get to be pregnant so I am holding on and cherishing every moment.

Movement? I really think he is HUGE! He is head down and I feel him all over my belly when he moves. I have finally experienced a couple of those swift rib kicks people keep talking about. Yeah, it hurts but he is pretty good to his mama. I read they are supposed to be less active at this stage but he is showing no signs of slowing down. We got a good video of my belly moving and shaking and it cracks us up!

Food cravings? Cheesecake! I really wanted a piece of cheesecake last night and almost went to get one. Good thing I was exhausted by the heat and couldn't bring myself to do it. I still drool when I see any kind of donut, but haven't had one since I went to California in June.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Just reflux at night. This is the second time I ate pizza and the reflux was so bad that I threw-up. I thought it was the tomato sauce but I had white sauce and it still happened. I think no more pizza for me.

Labor signs? Nope. Occasional Braxton Hicks, especially when I am out in the heat. 

Gender?  BOY!

Symptoms? Heartburn, reflux, tender boobs again. Mainly the heartburn and reflux. I tell you, that is probably the only thing I will not miss.

Happy or Moody? Happy!! Happy!! Happy!! It's getting so close!

Looking forward to...?  His birthday! So, the placenta didn't move. Shocker! We were not very surprised. I will have one more ultrasound at 36 weeks (August 8th) and that will be the final word. I will be scheduled for my c-section the next week if it has not moved (which it won't...I'd bet money). So his birthday will be August 13th, 14th, or 15th. We are shooting for the 15th just to keep him in there as long as possible. August 15th seems like a good birthday, yes?! I was hoping for a September baby but I understand the risks. I am still not looking forward to the c-section but I have read and been told a lot of positive stories. The feeling like I am missing out is slowly going away. It may sound strange but I would really like to know what labor feels like. I'm not going to get that. I'm also really, really looking forward to being done with work for a while. It's getting tough. It's still very manageable but my body needs a break. I know maternity leave will be no vacation but I am so looking forward to being exhausted because my little guy is here and not because of working a 12 hour shift.

Realization of the week? 2.5 weeks!! What?! To be honest, I'm going to be a slightly disappointed mama if the placenta does move. I have had it in my head for at least two months that I will have an early c-section and that he will be here in August. If by some miracle the placenta moves and I am able to go 40 weeks, I will cry. Five weeks seems like an eternity, especially compared to two. Plus, I am terrified that he is going to be HUGE! I'm pretty sure he is big. I have nothing to compare it to but he just feels big to me. We are nesting like crazy. We are checking off our "to-do lists" but we keep adding to it as fast as we are checking things off. I can't believe he is almost here!!

31 & 32...Getting there!

32 Weeks! Please look past the dirty mirror. Gross. I feel like I have really popped in the last two weeks!

How far along? 32 weeks 3 days
Total weight gain?  16lbs+. I gained two pounds this month. I start going every other week now so I will be able to keep a closer eye on it. I am supposed to be gaining a pound a week from now on. Yikes!

Maternity clothes?  Still mostly just bottoms. I can get away with bigger size t-shirts but I did buy a few comfy maternity dresses. I should stop. I don't have long to go.

Sleep? I am sleeping...okay. When I am asleep, it's good sleep. However, potty breaks and needing to re-position every hour and heartburn wakes me up a lot. Plus, weird dreams.  I was getting really frustrated one night because I had these dreams that kept waking me up and it took a minute to decide if they were real. I had another dream baby boy came out a baby girl. I seriously hope that doesn't happen.

Best moment of the week?  Getting a good night sleep! Seriously, the heartburn is getting out of control.

Miss anything?  The more uncomfortable I get, the less I miss anything about not being pregnant. That may sound strange but it's true. Every ache, hard kick, heartburn, yucky feeling is a constant reminder that I'M PREGNANT! I am having a baby!! I am going to be a mom! These are the things that I have been dying to experience and I am truly loving every minute. I just stare at myself in the mirror and can't believe what I am seeing. It's all still so surreal. When will I wake-up?

Movement? He is getting big! He rolls a lot and it's the weirdest, coolest feeling in the world. It takes me by surprise sometimes. I am obsessed by his movements. I literally will not get out of bed in the morning until  he gives a few good kicks. Ever since the midwife said I should be doing some sort of kick count, I have been stressed out by his movements. If he is not moving, I get worried. I know babies sleep sometimes too!

Food cravings? Still donuts but I don't indulge. I have also been thinking about cheesecake. I like cheesecake but it's not my favorite. Lately, I really want a piece of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake...I don't care what flavor. I'm too tired and it's too hot for me to do anything about it which I consider a good thing.

Anything make you queasy or sick? No and yes. I feel great aside from heartburn and reflux. Seriously, it's getting pretty bad. Two nights in a row I was up past 1am because I couldn't fall asleep to due the fear of vomiting. Not because I felt sick but that is what the reflux is causing me to do. I vomited three times in the past two weeks because of reflux. I do a pretty good job of keeping it under control with weird grunts and throat clearing but as soon as I fall asleep and my esophagus can relax, that's when the contents of my stomach come back up into my mouth and makes me throw-up. Yuck! I have tried EVERYTHING! Eating small meals, not eating late, sitting up to fall asleep. Nothing works. Pepcid and Tums seem to be losing their effect. It still works okay for the acid neutralizing part. Nothing can stop the reflux! Michael was just told by a co-worker that she threw-up every night for the last month of her pregnancy due to reflux. I am hoping that doesn't happen to me. I am trying to weed out certain foods that make it worse. I think anything with tomato sauce is out for now.

Labor signs? No, no. Still the occasional Braxton Hicks but nothing that gets me concerned. I would know if I was having real contractions, right? Baby boy still has come cooking to do!

Gender?  He had better come out a boy! 

Symptoms? Just heartburn, reflux, BH occasionally. It's getting harder to breathe. I am already looking forward to that first breath after birth! And, I AM HOT! People freeze when they come to our house. It has be 69 degrees or under. It's just too hot otherwise. I try to be nice and turn it up a little when people come over but I end up turning it back down shortly thereafter and get out the blankets. I really didn't notice that I was hotter than most people until I had some people over and everyone was freezing. I was still thinking that for it being 90-100 degrees everyday and pregnant, it was still pretty much...okay.

Happy or Moody? Happy!! Happy!! Happy!! It's getting so close!

Looking forward to...?  My ultrasound tomorrow!! Michael is not very optimistic about the placenta moving. He keeps saying, "we get to find out our baby's birthday this week!". They will schedule the c-section right then and there if it hasn't moved. 37 weeks! I am a little more optimistic. I am hoping the bleeding I have been having is an indication of things moving north. The midwife said it's possible. I am trying to not dwell on things that are out of my control so if it hasn't moved, a c-section it is and I am okay with that. I cried a lot when I looked at youtube videos of c-sections. I really don't want to be cut open. And, I really want to be free to have those first moments with him. But, I know if it's necessary, it's necessary. I have been trying to focus on the positive stuff. Biggest one? Either way, I will have my baby boy here with us, sooner rather than later!

Realization of the week? If I have a c-section he will be here in 5 weeks! We are nearly ready for him. The nursery has just a few finishing touches and some organizing to do. Sometimes I sit in his room and just try to make any of this seem real. It still doesn't. When will this sink in? I feel like we are playing house and preparing all this stuff for him but have convinced myself that we are still pretending. When we talk about our child or children, it still feels like we talk about "someday" or "eventually". Not 5-8 weeks!! We feel so blessed and so loved by so many people who are just are excited for this little guy's arrival as we are.

29 & 30 Weeks!!

30 weeks at my Salt Lake baby shower! I didn't get a good belly shot. I look bigger in the 29 week picture because the dress is too big. I got a size smaller for the Utah shower. Dang maternity sizing!

29 weeks! My baby shower in California! Aren't my cankles sexy? :)

How far along? 30 weeks, 6 days...I'm seriously behind on blogging. It's been a busy couple of weeks.

Total weight gain?  14lbs+. We shall see at my doctor appointment.  According to my scale, I haven't gained anything this month so far.

Maternity clothes?  Yes. I have been annoyed that I bought a bunch of maternity clothes back in April that are too big. Maternity clothes run big, just so you know. Live and learn.

Sleep? Still sleeping okay. I wake-up at 1:30a and 4:30a to pee and a few more times to turn to my other side.  I know that this is all preparing for this little guy to arrive but sheesh! It's getting exhausting.  

Best moment of the week?  I have lots! We are nearly finished with the nursery! The bedding arrived and we are just putting finishing touches on everything. It's so cute! I had my two baby showers, one in California, one in Salt Lake and they were so cute and so much fun that they deserve their own post. Baby boy is so spoiled already!

Miss anything?  Being able to put socks on with ease! This belly is really a belly now even though it's still relatively small. Bending over is a thing of the past and I now judge the importance of picking things up off the floor when I drop them...which is a lot.

Movement? His movements have changed a lot! I think he is starting to run out of room because he rolls and pushes instead of flipping and kicking. I can tell he is bigger and I love it!

Food cravings? Still donuts but I don't eat them. I had a couple in California and loved it!! But other than that, nothing really. I'm slightly disturbed that every time I see a beer commercial with icy, cold bottles...my mouth waters. I hope that doesn't mean he wants alcohol!

Anything make you queasy or sick? No. I have been feeling great!!

Labor signs? I started having Braxton Hicks these past couple of weeks. I had a couple of really good ones on the day of my baby shower because I think I was dehydrated a little and just needed to rest more.  I get BH a lot at work when I can't sit down but I just try to take it as easy as possible.

Gender?  He had better come out a boy! We have so much boy stuff!

Symptoms? Aside from the BH and heartburn (ouch!) nothing much. I guess bleeding can go under symptoms. Yes, it finally happened. I have been trying to avoid bed rest like the plague and I have so far but early in the morning of my baby shower (in California!) I started to bleed and was told to go into Labor and Delivery. Me and my mom went to Pomona Valley Hospital at 2:30a to get checked out. They put a fetal monitor and did an exam. He was doing great! I was not dilated and I was having no contractions. Everything was fine and I was released and I went to the baby shower. I was anxious to get home after that because I was worried something would happen and I would be stuck in California. My doctors here in Utah told me they were not worried but to take it easy. Hopefully the bleeding was just the placenta moving? That would be nice!

Happy or Moody? Happy!! It's getting so close!

Looking forward to...?  My ultrasound in a couple of weeks! I guess this is the last word on whether or not I will have c-section. I still really don't want one but I know he will decide how he arrives into this world. I am trying really hard to get things done just in case...

Realization of the week? I certainly don't want him to come any time soon but I can't help to just want to hold him. I have days that I get nervous and wonder if he is okay or not and it makes me want him to just come out! Then, I realized all the million things that I will have to worry about once he is here and I desperately want to stay pregnant forever so I can keep him safe and with me all the time. My mom says she worries more about us now than she ever has and her baby is 22 years old! I just feel blessed that I finally have so much to worry about!

28 weeks!

I didn't get a 28 weeks pic but here is preview of my California shower!

How far along? 28 weeks, 2 days...officially in the 3rd trimester.  How did that happen?

Total weight gain?  14lbs+. I didn't make it to my doctor's appointment this week. Michael's cousin passed away so we attended the funeral that day. I read that I will probably gain about 11lbs this trimester so if I didn't totally blow it this month, 25lbs is not so bad. We shall see tomorrow...

Maternity clothes?  Yep! I never considered myself to have a long torso but my belly is still relatively small and my shirts are just too short! I am getting away with longer t-shirts but my scrub situation is starting to get embarrassing. My little belly hangs out all the time if I am not wearing a long under shirt.

Sleep? Still sleeping okay. I toss and turn from side to side a lot now but it ain't no thang. The Snoogle is still magical!

Best moment of the week?  Ending my night shifts and being officially on vacation for a little bit. Night shifts kill me right now! I am getting really tired again but trying to push through it so I can get everything done and then do nothing. Also, I went swimming for the first time this summer. I would not consider myself to be uncomfortable at all right now, maybe just a little slower, but getting in the pool took the extra weight off places I didn't even know was there. It was heaven!

Miss anything?  I'm just going to say it...I miss my husband's body! With placenta previa, being intimate is a no-no. It's been a little rough the last few weeks. It's been 4 months and if this dang placenta doesn't move, it will obviously be longer. Fingers crossed for many reasons that this placenta has migrated north.

Movement? All the time and I'm loving it! I'm now trying figure out body parts but I still have no clue.

Food cravings? Donuts but I won't eat one until I go to California this week. I can't wait!! Also, still Einstein's Tasty Turkey sandwich. As soon as I'm done, that's where I am headed.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope. I feel great!

Labor signs? No, keep on cookin' little boy! 

Gender?  Still boy which was reconfirmed for the third time during the ultrasound.

Symptoms? I think Braxton Hicks is the new symptom this week. I am almost sure that is what I am feeling. They don't hurt but my belly just gets really tight for about 30 seconds. I get them maybe a couple of times a day. The heartburn has been really well controlled with Prilosec and Tums. 

Happy or Moody? Happy!! 

Looking forward to...?  My baby shower in California at the end of the week!! It will be nice to have a break and I can't wait to get a little beach time and pool time at my parents. I'm also looking forward to belly getting a little bigger. I still don't look pregnant sometimes and have yet to have a stranger ask me about my pregnancy. I guess I am just carrying him in my back but he is definitely there!

Realization of the week? There is not a lot of time until this kid gets here. You would think after 9 months and almost 4 years of infertility that I would have prepared more but I am so not ready! I guess maybe no one ever is? I started getting really anxious and depressed about thinking of going back to work after he is born. I am grateful my job is what it is and that I don't have be gone 5 days a week but it will still be hard. I am under contract for another year when I get back and it makes me sad that I won't be with him all the time. Also, we don't really have any ideas for child care right now.  I know it will work out but I am just trying to wrap my head around the fact that as a working mom, it's just not possible to always be there. I know it won't be long until I can go part-time or not work all together so I just hope until then, I can be okay with it...I know he will.

26 & 27 weeks...Hello 3rd Trimester!

26 weeks

27 weeks

How far along? 27 weeks exactly!  Hello 3rd trimester...it's good to see you!

Total weight gain?  14lbs+. I'm curious to see if I have lost weight since last month. I am not eating non-stop like I was on the cruise. We will see on Wednesday.

Maternity clothes?  Yes. Definitely on the bottom. My regular shirts are getting too short and my belly hangs out of a couple pair of scrubs so it's looking like it will have to be all maternity soon.

Sleep? Heartburn has woken me up a few times this week and of course the potty breaks 2-3x a night. That is getting old.  

Best moment of the week?  We are finished painting! Now we can start putting stuff in the room as we collect it. The walls aren't done since we are putting vinyl on them but the hard part is done. I'm excited to get it finished.  Shouldn't be long now! Also, seeing him on ultrasound again. I love that. He is so big! He was estimated to be almost 2lbs at 25.5 weeks!

Miss anything?  My brain! I used to roll my eyes when women made the excuse of pregnancy brain but it is a real thing!! I was laughable at work the other day...so not safe!

Movement? All the time and I'm loving it! I had one night when he wasn't moving so much and it had me worried. The next morning I was talking to him and trying to get him to move and finally he did and didn't stop for two days! I guess I am supposed to be starting kick counts soon? I don't know?

Food cravings? Yes. I realized that I crave donuts all the time but I rarely indulge. I had one this week because it was National Donut Day and figured that was a good excuse. It was yummy! I haven't had one since before that last weigh in! I also have been craving Einstein Bagel Tasty Turkey sandwiches. I had three this week and Einstein's is not close to me. I've been thirsty all the time too.

Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope. I feel great!

Labor signs? No, keep on cookin' little boy! 

Gender?  Still boy which was reconfirmed for the third time during the ultrasound.

Symptoms? Heartburn and reflux!! Big time! I've also failed to mention certain symptoms/changes. Early in the first trimester I noticed hair on my belly. It's just blonde peach fuzz but there is definitely a trail. It's funny, I haven't noticed my hair being any more luscious or thicker and I swear pregnancy is making my leg hair grow slower which is saying something for me.  I don't grow leg hair as it is. I haven't shaved since April! I also have hips for the first time in my life. Michael says he can't tell but they have spread (and probably have some extra padding on them too)! My belly button is a little more shallow. Michael actually pointed it out since he loves to stick his finger in my belly button (which drives me crazy). It is definitely still an innie but it's flattening out.

Happy or Moody? Happy!! It's getting so close!

Looking forward to...?  My doctor's appointment on Wednesday, finishing the baby room, and my shower in California! I can't wait until the room comes together and all I want is a beach, the ocean, and a good book.

Realization of the week? Third trimester!! This kid could be here sooner rather than later. So, my placenta didn't move. I was crossing my fingers that it would be high, high, high but it didn't budge from week 19.5. The tech and my doctor changed their attitude about it and aren't so optimistic about it moving anymore. I guess the chances of it moving in the 3rd trimester are really slim.  My doctor said we will talk about a c-section next appointment, which will be scheduled at 37 weeks. I was really upset when he said that. I'm getting more used to the idea but I desperately want to have natural, vaginal birth. People have been telling me the perks of c-section but it doesn't make me any less disappointed. There is an experience that I was looking forward to and I won't even be allowed to know what labor feels like. I've heard a lot of women say their placenta moved at 30+ weeks so I'm still praying but I of course I will do everything to keep him safe. So, if I do have a c-section, we will meet him in 10 weeks!! Yikes! That is soon!

25 weeks!

25 weeks

How far along? 25 weeks, 2 days
Total weight gain?  14lbs. There, I said it. Hopefully the next weigh in won't be so bad. I have really reigned it in since the cruise.
Maternity clothes?  Maternity jeans and some shirts. It's funny to put on a shirt that is non-maternity, that I just wore a few weeks ago. They are getting shorter and shorter!
Sleep? Still sleeping well aside from the 2-3 times a night potty breaks. It doesn't really bother me. I have no problem going right back to sleep. 
Best moment of the week?  Finally getting a jump start on the baby room. We got everything out (and piled in our guest room) and started painting and hoping to finish this weekend. We still need to decide on a crib but other than that, things should move quickly.
Miss anything?  Not missing much. I am just loving every minute of this. Time is flying and then I know I will be missing him rolling around in my belly! If I had to choose, maybe my brain. I have been so spacey lately and dropping things all the time. I was told your brain never quite recovers...good to know.
Movement? I wish I would have recorded my belly a few times this week. He has been quite the mover! My belly has been moving all over! I will get "hard spots" and feel a little...something (a foot, head, hand?) and I will poke at it because it doesn't always feel good and he just stays there. I love it!! 
Food cravings? No. Occasionally, I will will wake-up and think about a certain food and that is what I end up eating at some point but no real cravings. I could probably eat chocolate all day, every day but I don't.
Anything make you queasy or sick? Nope. I feel great!
Labor signs? No, keep on cookin' little boy!
Gender?  BOY! I still get nervous that it will change which is silly. We got all the good shots to prove it's definitely a boy.
Symptoms? Heartburn and reflux!! Big time! Nothing that a little Tums can't handle though. I pretty much have stashes of Tums everywhere.
Happy or Moody? Happy!! I love feeling our little boy in my belly. I feel like every time he moves, it's a miracle and makes me smile.
Looking forward to...?  My ultrasound on Wednesday!! Crossing my fingers that my placenta has moved. I would really love to be off the "restrictions", which includes being intimate with my hubby. Sorry if that's TMI but I miss him...a lot. I also can't wait to see our little guy on the big screen again.
Realization of the week? Michael and I have been talking about labor and birth and how we would like to plan it. I stopped and realized we were talking about a day in the near (15 weeks) future instead maybe a someday. I have a little belly, I feel him all the time, and yet, I still don't think it has really sunk in for either of us. We have been so used to talking about maybe someday, that our minds can't really grasp that this is actually happening. Maybe it's like that for everyone? I am trying to find ways to make this seem more like a reality than a dream but maybe it will always feel like a dream come true. I can't say how in love I am with this little boy already and I can't wait to meet him!