Camille Pregnancy {Week by Week}

Here are the weekly updates from the Dream pregnancy #2, which resulted in a healthy baby girl on October 16, 2012!

I always start taking bump pics at the 16 week mark… so that’s where we begin…

5/3/12, 16 weeks: Also a miracle? Baby #2. Which means it’s time for bump shots again – and a comparison shot to the last pregnancy…

I’m definitely bigger this time! (And despite not feeling well, Sir Kenton does not like to sit or stand still – hence the blurry face!)

I am 16 weeks along and, once again, having one of the easiest pregnancies in the history of procreation. Just in the last few days, I’ve suffered some bouts of nausea – which is so strange because I’ve never had any morning sickness (in either pregnancy) – go ahead and curse me now. I know it’s not fair. So, I’m not even sure we can call it pregnancy-related. We’ll have to wait and see.

What’s different this time around? I keep forgetting I’m pregnant. On the phone last night, my mom asked how the pregnancy was going and I said, “I’m pregnant?” Not kidding. I have yet to pick up one pregnancy book. I have not felt the babe move yet (maybe… but not quite sure… besides, I was told my placenta is in the front this time, so that means I’ll feel movement later than usual). I guess I’m a bit distracted with the results of my first pregnancy!

5/9/12, 17 weeks

17 weeks!

Week 17. Baby is definitely starting to move. Of course, he/she mostly does so at night – but, thankfully, is still too itsy-bitsy to keep me up. 🙂 The waves of nausea I was experiencing last week have subsided. So, it’s safe to say that was not pregnancy-related. I guess that puts me in the tiny percentage of procreating females who do not experience morning sickness. Jealous? Don’t be – I’ll make up for it somehow.

Kenton’s triumphant first steps have yet to turn into a regular occurrence. This disappoints me greatly, because even though I’m not all that big yet – it is getting more tedious to pick him up constantly. I look forward to the day when he toddles around behind me and I only have to lift occasionally.

I still want to where a t-shirt that says, “It’s a baby bump, not a leftover lump from the baby on my hip” – because there are times when I just look plain old fat, not pregnant. That’s when I try to push my belly out a bit, rub it, and tell Kenton, “Say ‘Hi!’ to the baaaaybeee!” – loud enough, of course, so everyone near me can hear. (((SIGH)))

Also, my dream of having Kenton sweetly sitting at my feet in my weekly bump shots this time around is COMICAL. Yep…

The babe won’t walk, but he will crawl. EVERYWHERE. ALL.THE.TIME. Throw the dog in the mix and… yeah… bump shots for the next 23 weeks should be interesting!

5/16/12, 18 weeks

18 weeks!

Aside from moments of really low energy, I still don’t feel pregnant (not complaining!). However, I am experiencing some pregnancy-induced allergies and possible migraines. GOOD. TIMES. I’ve had the sneezes/sniffles/itchy eyes/scratchy throat thing going for six weeks now and am SO READY for that to be done. Dr. Donnelly, if you read my blog (doubt it), expect to be peppered with MAKE IT STOP pleas at my next appointment. And the migraines – wowzah. Those hit out of nowhere. Actually, I’ve never had a migraine, so I’m not even sure that’s what it is, but all of the sudden, I will get intense, stabbing pain in my head that will affect my vision. Not fun. AT. ALL.

On a positive note, I saw the belly move for the first time this week. That was weird. The baby certainly isn’t big enough to do that, but must have been doing some serious flips, causing the fluid in there to jostle around. It was really special. Plus, it happened on Mother’s Day. AWWWWWWWWE!

Also, snapped this pic on Mother’s Day:

It is so hard to believe that this was my one and only Mother’s Day as momma to one. CRAZINESS.

PS: This is (hopefully) the last week we have to endure iPhone bump photos! My broken lens is supposed to be released from ICU on Friday. Fingers crossed!

5/23/12, 19 weeks

19 weeks!

So, today marks week #19 of this pregnancy, but also a couple other significant events. Today is my dad’s 59th birthday. Happy Birthday, Dad! I love that man. Today is also the anniversary of Kenton’s due date. Yet, his birthday’s not for another eight days. (Hmm… remember that week last year? Yep, lots of whining.) It is crazy how fast this year has gone by. People warned me, but I didn’t necessarily believe them – but they were right.

Last time around, we had our 18-20 week ultrasound right at 18 weeks. This time, huh? What? Oh yeah, I guess I should schedule that. It’s today. So, I’ll probably update this post tonight with a comparison shot of the two bambinos. And… if you’d like to try and convince us to find out the sex (we didn’t last time)… feel free in the comments below! 🙂

UPDATE! We’re having a BABY. 🙂 That’s all we know for now… yes, we’re keeping the gender a surprise. Here is the ultrasound photo next to the 18 week ultrasound of his/her big brother:

Isn’t he/she sweet?!

PS: I had the privilege of seeing the new Dream Book Design baby this week! Adrianne and I go way back… and it was so fun to see her little, handsome baby boy. He is PRECIOUS! She’s posting her birth story this week, and if you’re a sucker for those like me – make sure you check out her site.

5/30/12, 20 weeks:  So, it’s my baby’s first-birthday-eve and I’m cooking another…

20 weeks!

Evidence! He can kinda/sorta walk. He fell one step later though… see below.

…not sure when I’ll get used to that! It is so hard to believe that Kenton will only be my baby for a few short months. Then, the baby in the belly will be my baby – until… well, maybe forever. We’ll see. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

I still don’t feel pregnant. This whole “second-pregnancy-while-raising-another-under-one” thing is, well, interesting. However, it is going by MUCH faster. I remember last time, I felt like it took FOREVER to get to the half-way point. Now, I’m already at 20 weeks? Wha…?! CRAP. I should probably get started on Kenton’s big boy bedroom to make room for this bambino. But, first things first, like… let’s try surviving the first birthday party this weekend before we tackle another project.

Also, I do miss wine more this time around. I wonder why?

And, down he goes…

6/6/12, 21 weeks:  Amidst all of the birthday shenanigans, the bump managed to keep growing…

Baby #2 is really starting to move, but not quite enough for anyone else to feel. However, I’m sure enjoying the flips and gentle pokes. It’s like our little secret.

I still cannot believe I’m in the second half of this pregnancy. Time is flying and this bambino will be here before we know it!

P.S.: The shirt I’m wearing is from one of my favorite onesie companies – Mitetees. It’s my maiden and married name as a “production” across my belly. I love it and always get fun comments when I wear it. We have the same phrase on an itty-bitty onesie that we took Kenton home from the hospital in and will also bring his brother or sister home in. I also love giving them as shower gifts! Check ’em out – Mitetees. *They didn’t ask me to say anything nice about them, I just like ’em.

6/13/12, 22 weeks:  You know what’s really strange about this week?

I was in San Diego at 22 weeks pregnant with Kenton! Crazy, right?

Since my Grandpa made an appearance in that shot, he amused me again and is making another appearance this time around.

Something I distinctly remember about the 22 week mark last time – that’s when I first saw a kick. When my belly physically changed and “jumped” with a baby kick. Jason saw it too. This time, the baby’s movements are not strong enough to see yet. That may be because my placenta is along the front wall of my belly (behind my belly button) or we have a calmer second child. We’ll see!

For now, the babe, bump and I are off to the beach!

6/20/12, 23 weeks:  Here she is, the week #23 bump:

23 weeks!

Kenton was taking a nap during this week’s photo session. His schedule is all sorts of messed up since we got back from San Diego.

Pregnancy has taken a toll on me this week – traveling probably didn’t help either – but I am TIRED. I took a blog break yesterday simply because I couldn’t muster enough energy to pull something together. PATHETIC. However, Jason FINALLY felt this baby move. Yippee! His/her movements have really increased this week, which is awesome. I love those little fluttery reassurances that everything is fine.

My OB, at my appointment today, confirmed that my lack of feeling much movement so far is due to the placenta placement (as I suspected, just call me Dr. Michelle!). She also confirmed that I’m gaining too much weight (I also called that myself – really? Why do I pay her the big bucks?).

But, let’s talk about pregnancy weight gain, shall we? I’m in a venting mood – and curious to learn about other momma’s experiences. So far, I’m on track to gain the same amount of weight this pregnancy as I did with Kenton, which was about 45 pounds (give or take, to be honest I stopped keeping track towards the end). YIKES. To date, 23 weeks in, I’ve already gained 22 pounds. How? I have no freaking idea. I suppose too much ice cream? Cheesy carbs? Chicken fingers? Milkshakes? A few too many “sips” of Kenton’s whole milk? Anyway, I digress… it is a bit much and I need to be careful. I would like to not gain 45 pounds this time around, if possible. I was able to lose those 45 pounds – and get back to my pre-pregnancy weight (albeit NOT quickly… breastfeeding melted off nothing but about six layers of skin from my nipples). However, my pre-Kenton-pregnancy weight was ten pounds over my usual weight, which is ten pounds over my goal weight. So, today, I’m 22 pounds over my pre-pregnancies weight, 32 pounds over my normal weight and 42 pounds over my goal weight. Depressing? HELL, YES.

I don’t think I ever shared here on the blog, but I did have a miscarriage before Kenton’s pregnancy. I miscarried at ten weeks along – and at that point had already gained a few pounds. I tacked on a few more while feeling a bit blue and knowing I was trying to get pregnant again right away – so there was no motivation to get back down to my normal weight at that point. The good news, I got pregnant really quickly – three months after miscarrying and those ten extra pounds came along for the ride and have been hanging on for two years now. Crazy!

Weight loss is definitely not on my mind right now – I’m not an idiot. I would just like to stall the gain. But, when this baby is born – hopefully, via VBAC (more on that another day) – I’m going to get really serious about that ever-allusive goal weight.

So, tell me, how much weight did you gain during pregnancy? Were you able to get it off? If so, HOW? (Seriously, don’t keep that to yourself). Or, how is your pregnancy weight gain progressing and what is your plan post-baby? Do share! I’ll go grab some Doritos while waiting to monitor all of your comments…

6/27/12, 24 weeks:  I can’t even begin to tell you what an encouragement you were to me last week. I loved reading about other women’s experiences with pregnancy and weight gain. I’m going to keep looking back at those comments when I feel discouraged – and after this baby is born, when I’m not losing the weight as fast as I want to! You gals are amazing. THANK YOU!

This WEEK 24 photo was taken at my mom’s house…

24 weeks!

I dropped Kenton off there this morning for my weekly “break.” Oh, how I live for Wednesdays! I love my kid, but I also love knowing he’s in Grandma’s loving and capable hands for the day and I can run errands, blog, visit with friends, get a pedicure, get my hair trimmed – all of that good stuff, without a little one to wrangle in the process.

It’s been really strange to go from working full time and having me/adult time every day/all day to being a mom 24/7. For the most part, I’m embracing this new adventure – but I still need a break at least once a week. I’ll admit, I’m looking forward to my MIL returning this fall and getting another day to myself. Of course, I’ll be working then too (more on that another day)… but it will still be nice to be out of the house and around adults. 🙂

Okay, I’m off for some more “me time” today… and Kenton is no doubt wearing out his Grandma as I type!

I think he’s transitioning now from walking to RUNNING… Have fun, Mom!

7/4/12, 25 weeks:  Happy 4th of July to you and 25 weeks of pregnancy to me!

25 weeks!

Enjoy your holiday! I’m going to take the rest of the week off. Cool? Cool.

🙂

7/11/12, 26 weeks:  Week #26!

26 weeks!

That also means it’s time for some comparison shots…

Week 16 vs Week 26 in this pregnancy
Week 16 vs Week 26 in Kenton’s pregnancy
Week 26 vs Week 26 of both pregnancies

I think the bumps are pretty similar. Jason says I’m “much bigger” this time. Clarification: I’m not bigger the bump is bigger. (Yes, he’s looking over my shoulder as I type.) 🙂

What do you think? Am I carrying the same? Different? Does that mean another boy?

Also, let’s talk about the outfit. Anyone else notice that this time around I’m still wearing heels! Last time, my feet grew so much I had to go buy shoes two sizes bigger than my normal size and only wear flats. This time, I can still squeeze into all of my favorite shoes. HOWEVER, I’m not working and spend most of my days in in flip-flops or tennis shoes. That may have something to do with it. Not sure though. And… that gray sweater dress is just comical to me during this pregnancy. I would never wear that now. It’s supposed to be 108 today for crying out loud! Oh, the joy of two pregnancies in different seasons. It’s actually a blessing I’m not working full time this time around. All of my big maternity clothes are for fall/winter. When I pass along my maternity collection, some lucky momma can be pregnant for a whole year and always have something to wear.

7/18/12, 27 weeksUpon learning my third trimester has begun, Kenton is floored…

27 weeks!

…or perhaps that’s the photo of a mom saying, “Come HERE sweet, precious, perfect child!” to a toddler who developed a mind of his own overnight.

YOU DECIDE.

Here’s another shot…

That would be Kenton demonstrating his new trick – “Where’s the baby?” and lifting mommy’s shirt. (That’s a fun one for daddy to play in public. Ehhhem.)

So, we’re 27 weeks along. This baby is finally starting to groove, but in waves. We’ll go several hours with a ton of movement, then I won’t feel anything for nearly a day. Kinda crazy. I don’t remember Kenton doing that at all – I just remember him constantly moving.

I’m going to celebrate the big third trimester milestone with an OB appointment and a haircut while Grandma gets some quality time with the “toddler who developed a mind of his own overnight.” 🙂

7/25/12, 28 weeks:  Wow… I am really late with this week’s bump pic – and only have a lame picture to show for it…

28 weeks!

See? I wasn’t kidding.

Sorry. All you get this week is a self-portrait-iPhone-bathroom-mirror-shot. That is how crazy this week’s been.

But, it’s a good crazy. Here’s why:

  • I’m speaking at a conference in the EST next week and am busy getting ready for that – Powerpoints, handouts, four days of time by myself (including 12 hours of flying/uninterrupted reading time)… yeah, I’m EXCITED.
  • I’ve been working this pregnant toosh OFF. We joined a gym and I’ve been there nearly every day. Water aerobics is my new thing – me and the grandmas. It’s good times.
  • Due to my lack of a “real” job – I’ve had the free time to indulge in some activities that I deem as fun. Not everyone may agree… but I like volunteering for committees and leading projects – so, I’ve been doing that for the MOPS group at my church. Have you heard of MOPS? Google it. It’s awesome. I went to two meetings last year before they took a break for the summer – and somehow managed to sign up for the publicity team and am now in the throws of promoting it. Speaking of, here’s what I’ve spent the last few days working on…

Oh, gosh, I hope you laughed. If not, I’m really embarrassed. If you live in the Phoenix-area, please come! It’s going to be EPIC.

In other news, I’m 28 weeks pregnant this week. This baby is coming in 12 weeks. Cue: screams of terror.

(Perhaps the filling up my schedule with non-baby-related things and ignoring the fact that we’ve done nothing – NOT.ONE.THING – to prep for the impending arrival of this child is a clue that I may be in denial about just how far off my delivery date is.)

8/1/12, 29 weeksReady to head out to Mom’s Night Out with Scottsdale Mom’s Blog last night…

29 weeks!

No, the kid did not come. It was MOM’s night out. 😉

Remember how I kept lamenting about the lack of movement with this bambino in utero? Well he/she’s made up for it. Holy cow. Constant flips, kicks and general partying in my belly. I love it.

I do not love my legs right now. They’ve blown up with purple, ugly veins. In fact, I bought my first pair of maternity support hoes yesterday. I’ll need those for a cross-country flight I’m taking tomorrow (more on that in a minute…). I’m not excited about having to wear pants and/or long skirts the rest of the Arizona summer. This is a new symptom for me with this pregnancy. My legs did just fine last time around. Grr…

Not sure if it’s related, but I am working out a TON. I love it. We joined a gym and I’ve been doing water aerobics about three times a week. I’ve also decided to take the plunge and get a trainer. I’m going to work out with her twice a week up to the delivery. The hope is that she’ll help whip me into shape (as much shape as my beach-ball-body can get in) to prep for a VBAC… and that, in turn, will help me bounce back faster this time around. I’ll do a post about my birth plan another day… but yes, I’m going for the VBAC! Wish me luck.

Now… I’m off to our nation’s capitol. I’m speaking at a conference there this weekend. Jason will be on his own with Kenton. They’ll be fine (RIGHT?!). I’m looking forward to working again, even if it’s just for two days – and having some “me” time (to be honest). I’ll have hours of reading time on my direct flights… a whole bed to my big-belly self… cable TV… and will also get to see some friends and family. And… I may even have time to catch up on some blogging! I am WAY behind… we’ve done a few projects I’m excited to tell you about!

PS – My dear friend Robyn is also pregnant with #2 and wrote a spot-on blog post about the awesomeness (not) of pregnancy. Check it out here

8/8/12, 30 weeksSo, here we are… 30 weeks.

30 weeks!

I cannot believe there are only 10 weeks (roughly) left of this pregnancy. IT’S NOT ENOUGH! Where do I sign up for the elephant gestational phase of two years? Because that’s approximately how much time I need to get everything done. 🙁

Obviously, I’m kidding. Who really wants to turn into an elephant when they already feel like one? I tell ya, I’m exhausted. It’s taking everything in me these days to stay vertical and try to get things accomplished. That’s another reason I’m glad I signed up for a personal trainer. That accountability is crucial for me right now.

Sorry for the lack of blog posts on what I really love (and presumably why you stop by this corner of the Internet). I have a lot to show you, but I’d rather sleep than write a blog post. Just sayin’. However, I have one project up my sleeve that is Olympic-related, which means I need to GET IT DONE and show it to you soon. I’m really excited about it! Stay tuned…

8/16/12, 31 weeks:  31 weeks. 9 weeks left. 9 – that’s a single digit, folks!

Also, this post is a day late, this photo was taken a day late, I’m basically a day late in life right now:

31 weeks (and one day)!

I’d like to title this series of photos: “Self portrait of huge pregnant lady, who is also mom of a toddler who took a break from practicing rhythmic gymnastics to show us, ‘Where’s the baby?’ resulting in awkward shot of him lifting up his mom’s shirt but she put it on the Internet anyway.” Or, something like that.

You already know that I can’t believe how fast this pregnancy is going, I’m tired, I’m treasuring these few weeks alone with Kenton, I need more energy, I’m (still) working on getting the Dream ready for this baby, yadayadayada… Really there’s nothing else to add about this pregnancy right now.

So, I thought I’d an offer an update on how I’m doing in general.

Honestly, I’m in the best spot I’ve been in in years – possibly ever. I’m so enjoying the time I’m spending with Kenton. I’m still working through some emotions regarding my job loss a few months ago – but am incredibly grateful (increasingly so) that I’m no longer exposed to a toxic environment every day. My home is a very happy place these days and I love it.

I also love that I’m going back to work in just a couple of weeks! Yep. I’ll be teaching a class at Arizona State University this fall: Television Reporting. I’ve taught that class a few times before (I’ve been a Faculty Associate at ASU since 2008). However, I’ve never taught it during the day and I’ve never had a baby in the middle of the semester. INTERESTING. I hope my little future reporters are flexible and understanding!

I must admit, my water breaking mid-lecture is a growing fear. Wouldn’t that be… “memorable.” (…Sigh…)

8/22/12, 32 weeksOkay, so here’s the rushed picture taken eight minutes before my OB appointment this morning, after I had been up and down all night with Kenton, who has a fever…

Sorry. It’s the best I could do.

Because I feel compelled to prove myself… here’s the fever log evidence from last night and this morning:

Good times. Felt like practice for the newborn I’ll have in my arms in about eight SHORT weeks. Speaking of… after the OB appointment… I ran across the street to the hospital to do this…

It’s starting to all sink in… this baby will actually be arriving soon, despite my denying how close his/her due date is on the calendar. (It’s officially, October 17, 2012… but we’re really hoping for 10/11/12… wouldn’t that be an awesome birthday?!)

Anyway, we’re at the 32 week mark, less than two months to go. I’m feeling great – aside from my possibly broken toe from getting up/down so much last night – stubbing it on something in the dark was bound to happen. Even spotting this IN THE EXAM ROOM OF MY OB OFFICE (!) didn’t really bother me…

Really? In an OB OFFICE?!

It probably didn’t bother me too much because I (finally) maintained my weight gain this checkup. My doctor was really happy – as was I. Apparently, all of that working out is paying off! Whew!

 

8/29/12, 33 weeksFirst of all, I just want to say this photo looks nothing like me.

33 weeks!

I mean, it is me, but it doesn’t look like me. My hair is big and it looks like I have hairy ears. Neither are true. Truly. Kenton is cute! He’s drinking milk and wearing cute “big boy” PJ’s! Look at Kenton! Kenton and the bump. Divert your attention from that random face at the top. In fact, wait… here’s a better picture…


Whew. That’s better.

In other news, this 33rd week of pregnancy is also the CRAZIEST week on my calendar… here, let’s take a peek:

  • MONDAY
    • 8:00 AM – set the crockpot on low, pray it doesn’t blow up the house
    • 8:15 AM – drop Kenton off with Mom for the day
    • 8:15-9:00 – drive downtown, through traffic, for first day of teaching
    • 9:00-9:30 – drive around in circles looking for parking, start to cry
    • 9:30-10:30 – park in metered parking, rush into building, utter many curses for not throwing deodorant in purse, madly make sure everything is in order for class, see that 90% is not
    • 10:30 – race down and feed meter, stop for Braxton Hicks
    • 10:30-12:00 – teach (at least this part went well)
    • 12:00 – let kids out early, race down and feed meter, stop for more BH
    • 12:00-1:00 – try to sort out university IT issues
    • 1:15-2:00 – race to appointment
    • 2:00-3:00- appointment
    • 3:00-3:15 – race to OB office for a MINOR OF ALL MINOR issues that they asked you to “rush” in for
    • 3:15 -arrive on time for OB appointment
    • 3:50 – get called back for 3:15 appointment
    • 4:00 – race out of OB office with that “I told you so” look – RACE to meet mom at 4:00 for Kenton’s swim lesson
    • 4:15 – arrive, 15 min late, to fill out paperwork for Kenton’s first swim lesson
    • 4:29 – Jason arrives to get in the pool with Kenton
    • 4:30-5:00 – wave and blow kisses at adorable son screaming in delight throughout his swim lesson
    • 5:00-5:10 – change Kenton out of swimsuit into dry clothes, race after his naked little body that escaped (twice!) mid-change
    • 5:10-5:20 – race home
    • 5:20-6:00 – serve dinner from the crockpot to mom, Jason, yourself and Kenton (the few bites he’ll actually eat, anyway)
    • 6:00-6:15 – ride with mom to event at church
    • 6:15-7:00 – “rehearse” skit for church event, when actually there is no rehearsing – only chatter with friends you haven’t seen for a while.
    • 7:00 – panic when you see 250+ people have shown up for event and you never rehearsed your skit
    • 7:15 -7:25 – perform “skit” completely ad-libbed, find power in yourself to continue when people actually laugh
    • 7:25-8:00 – politely sit through remainder of event, try to keep eyes open while suffering utter exhaustion
    • 8:00-9:15 – attempt to leave event, but are not successful for more than an hour despite nabbing a seat near the exit, catch up with friends and mom’s friends, try to keep eyes open while suffering utter exhaustion, shift weight back and forth in desperate attempt to relieve tired/sore feet
    • 9:15-9:30 – hitch ride home from Mom
    • 9:30 – LIGHTS OUT!
    • 9:30-??? – toss and turn all night, no sleeping
  • TUESDAY
    • 5:40 – wake when Kenton wakes
    • 5:40-9:00 – try to stay awake, feed Kenton, play with Kenton, chase Kenton, appease Kenton, keep Kenton from torturing the dog, cry tears of joy when he shows sure-fire signs of taking a morning nap, drink more than the allotted amount of caffeine during pregnancy, pray the baby in the belly doesn’t grow a second head
    • 9:00-10:30 – Kenton naps, madly start cleaning house for guests later that evening
    • 10:30 – wake Kenton, put a smoothie under his nose because you forgot to wake him earlier and actually give him a decent snack
    • 10:40 – load Kenton (with smoothie) into car, drive to gym
    • 10:55 – drop Kenton off in childcare, celebrate the fact he actually waves bye-bye now and doesn’t cry
    • 11:00 – see an old friend and catch up for a few
    • 11:10 – show up ten minutes late for personal training. WHOOPSIES.
    • 11:10-12:00 – have butt squarely kicked by personal trainer, beg her to stop torture, give the evil eye when she laughs
    • 12:00-12:15 – limp to locker room, change clothes, deodorant (no shower, because… nah…), realize you have a crazy craving for Chic-Fil-A, also realize you left wallet at home.
    • 12:15-12:30 – rescue Kenton from child care, race home, grab wallet, head to Chic-Fil-A
    • 12:30-1:00 – satisfy craving, snicker watching Kenton blow kisses at little girls, tolerate the guy one table over telling you how your life is going to be hell for the next FIVE YEARS because your kids will be so close together
    • 1:00-1:30 – grocery shop, stop every 10 seconds, roughly, for old ladies to ogle over Kenton
    • 1:30 – hit up McDonald’s drive through for a chocolate shake, because… heck… you had a hard workout and fried chicken just didn’t cut it
    • 2:00 – get home, catch Kenton rubbing his eyes, celebrate the early arrival of the afternoon nap
    • 2:10 – put Kenton down for nap, lay down yourself and attempt to rest
    • 2:15-3:00 – lay down with eyes closed listening to Kenton alternate between playing and screaming bloody murder on the monitor
    • 3:00 – give up hope of afternoon nap
    • 3:00-4:30 – entertain Kenton, simultaneously attempt to clean house for impending guest arrival
    • 4:30-7:00 – smother husband with kisses when he gets home early to mop the floor for you, feed family leftovers, bathe Kenton, hand Kenton to husband, half-heartedly attempt to freshen up
    • 7:00-9:00 – welcome guests, entertain, eat dessert (they brought – because you’ve learned you just can’t do it all), try to keep eyes open while suffering utter exhaustion
    • 9:00 – say goodbye to last guest, race upstairs, LIGHTS OUT
    • 9:00-??? – toss and turn, no sleep (2nd night in a row!)
  • TODAY
    • 5:00 – wake before Kenton
    • 5:00-6:00 – get ready
    • 6:00-6:30 – Kenton wakes, demands silly things like attention, diaper change and food – attend to those needs
    • 6:30 – Mom arrives to take care of him, offer instructions for the day
    • 6:45-7:15 – leave house, race to Starbucks, race to friend’s house
    • 7:15 – meet at friend’s house, help load car, offer outfit advice for her upcoming TV appearance
    • 7:30-8:00 – drive to TV station
    • 8:00-9:00 – prep kitchen for her segment on local TV show, offer last minute advice, remind host you used to work with her when you were just out of college, warmly accept host’s blank stare as a compliment you weren’t too much trouble back then
    • 9:00-10:00 – silently cheer on friend from off-camera as she rocks the house during her segments, take photo during commercial break:
    • 10:00-10:20 – madly drive to campus, pray parking will suddenly appear
    • 10:20 – find metered parking, race to class
    • 10:30-12:15 – teach
    • 12:15 – run down to feed meter, stop for Braxton Hicks
    • 12:15-2:15 – work in office on campus
    • 2:15-2:45 – drive back to ‘hood
    • 2:45 – bang trim appointment
    • 3:00-4:00 – race home, work on this here blog post
    • 4:15 – meet mom for Kenton’s swim lesson
    • 4:30-5:00 – take Kenton through swim lesson #2
    • 5:00-5:10 – change him, hope no naked escape attempts occur
    • 5:15-6:30 – dinner out with family
    • 6:30 – put Kenton to bed, follow accordingly
    • 6:30-???? – sleep like a baby

Sheesh. No wonder I’m EXHAUSTED.

9/6/12, 34 weeksI’m a day late with this post… oopsies! Yesterday was another one of my crrrrrazzzzy days (see previous bump post for more on that).  Without further ado… le bump:

34 weeks! (and one day)

A bit of an unconventional photo, but I didn’t get a chance to have someone take one yesterday due to the craziness. I posted this one on Instagram this morning and it is now officially in the record books as “Dreambaby #2 Pregnancy BUMP PHOTO! (week 34).”

(Psst… are we following each other on Instagram? If not, find me, “MrsDreamer.”)

So… I’m taking advantage of this pregnancy… kind of to an extreme.

Why, yes, that IS a handicap placard. WOOHOO! I had no idea you could get one of these handy little devices during pregnancy, but YOU CAN. AND I DID. I HAVE NO SHAME.

In all honesty, parking where I teach (ASU’s downtown Phoenix campus) is brutal. I could not find normal parking and was rushing down six stories to feed a meter every couple of hours, which is uncomfortable in and of itself in 100+degree heat, but throw an extra 30 pounds on and it’s REALLY UNCOMFORTABLE. Throw some Braxton Hicks on top of that and… yeah… it was bad. So, my OB hooked this sister up. At first, I thought, “This is so nice, but I’ll only use it when I really need it – on the days that I’m teaching.” Welp, that went out the window about ten minutes after the placard was in my hands. “Oh, hey, lookey there, that handicap spot has way better car seat exit access than these other spots, and I’m only running into that kid’s clothing store for a minute.” Then… “Ugh, I just hate walking so far at THE GYM and these handicap spots are always open…” (because it’s THE GYM). I did get a seriously evil glare from a fellow-handicap-placarded elderly gentleman at the post office. WHATEV. I don’t care. I’m going to fully enjoy limited walking distances for the next next six weeks of this pregnancy… and until February when my placard expires. 

YOU KNOW YOU’RE JEALOUS.

9/12/12, 35 weeksThis is a week to celebrate. It’s my last week without an OB appointment!

35 weeks!
I had an appointment last week, the last of my every other week appointments. Starting next week, my OB will see me at least once a week until this bambino appears.

Last time around, this was a tortuous week.

“But… my behbeh! I want to hear the heartbeat and know everything is okay! I want to be measured and told if I’m dialated. I want attention! I want, no I NEED information. Lots of information! Information about information!”

This time, this week is bliss. But next week will be tortuous.

“UGH… Doctors appointments EVERY WEEK?! Are you sure? I’m a very busy person. I feel this baby kicking my ribcage on a daily basis. We’re good. How about we just check in if my water breaks or real contractions actually start. Then, I’m going to need you. But right now, I have no interest in knowing my weight, blood pressure, or how many centimeters huge my belly is – and Lord knows I’m done peeing in that cup.”

Ahh, the difference between pregnancy #1 and #2!

I seriously have no time to think about this baby actually coming, until he/she actually comes. Last time, it was all I thought about. EVERY.MOMENT.OF.MY.LIFE. Poor baby.

I do, however, have plenty of time to overanalyze our baby name choices. Last time around, by this point, we were completely settled on two names. A boy would be Kenton Albert and a girl would be Bianca Sue. (Just kidding about the girl name – I can’t share it because it’s still on the short list this time around. For the record, I LOVE the name Bianca – but Jason ix-nayed it.) This time, we’re pretty-much-sorda-probably-maybe settled on one boy’s name, with no real backups. We have three girl’s names we keep tossing around – with one strong frontrunner, NOT the girl name from last time around – interestingly enough. For a 72 hour period over the weekend, I hated ALL of the names. EVERY NAME EVER SPOKEN ON EARTH (save, Kenton – still love that name – but we can’t use it twice). I told Jason we had to go back to the drawing board because none of our choices were acceptable.

I also told him I HAD TO KNOW the gender and we needed to watch the DVD of the ultrasound to try and see what it was – because I could not go another minute not knowing. Thankfully, the DVD could not be located and that moment of temporary insanity passed. I mean, come on! I’ve waited this long… what’s another five weeks?!

And… After looking over our name short list again – and the meanings behind the names – I was once again comfortable with our choices. I did, however, make a middle name adjustment/suggestion – which made me feel better (in control?) but no birth certificate’s been signed yet… so we shall see what ends up happening.

All that to say, I’m still crazy. Still pregnant and crazy.

Because pregnancy is making me crazy… I need to let you know that all next week is PREGNANCY WEEK here on Our Dream Foreclosure! That’s right… Monday – Friday next week, we’ll have a new post every day about this pregnancy. It will be fun. I hope you come back and check it out.

PS – We’ll be launching an entirely new blog soon. EEEK!!! So excited! Stay tuned for more on that.

9/19/12, 36 weeksGet ready… LOTS of bump shots for you today…

36 weeks!

36 weeks of growth in that bump!

Because it’s a week ending in “6” – that means it’s bump comparison time. Here’s how the bump has progressed from week 16, when I started sharing photos:

16 weeks vs. 26 weeks vs. 36 weeks in pregnancy #2

Let’s compare this progress to when Kenton was in that belleh…

16 weeks vs. 26 weeks vs. 36 weeks in pregnancy #1

 

Is it just me or is there less of a dramatic difference this time around between weeks 26 and 36? Last time, you can see a lot of growth… this time, I feel like it didn’t really change much. Hmm… could be the camera angle. I dunno. Here’s the 36 week to 36 week comparison… Am I carrying differently?

36 weeks: Pregnancy #1 vs. Pregnancy #2

 

Sorry about the quality of that image. I had to snag the photo on the left off the site because I couldn’t find the original anywhere. Oopsies!

Personally, I see only a slight difference. I think the bump slants down more on top and is overall slightly smaller. But… what do you think?

I did forget to have Kenton in my “official” 36 week shot – but he was hanging out with me and we did get one shot together…

He’s a bit out of sorts and clingy because he’s not feeling well. In fact, we spent half the day yesterday in the ER:

Poor guy! He’s had a stomach bug and was a bit dehydrated, so he needed an IV. It was incredibly traumatic experience for him, me and Jason. UGH! As any parent knows, it is absolutely heartbreaking to see your child hurting and upset. However, I think that intervention did the trick as he does seem a bit better today. Whew!

 9/26/12, 37 weeks: I think my OB reads this blog. Yikes! More on that in a second.

First, the BUMP! The full-term, 37 week BUMP…

37 weeks!

We did it! We made it to full term. Not that I’m shocked. My body seems to like having a baby in it and holds on to them for dear life as long as humanly possible. I know this is a blessing. Many mommas worry about making it to week 30 or 35 – so I won’t complain. I will, however, say that I am more anxious than last time that this babe not overstay his/her welcome (like Sir Kenton who cashed out EIGHT DAYS late). The longer we go, the less chance I have of a successful VBAC, which ismy goal.

So… remember a couple of weeks ago, when I complained about having OB appointments EVERY GOSH DARN WEEK from here on out? Well, I think my OB must have read that. Because she told me to take this week off. FOR REALS. She’s livin’ it up in Cabo (hollah to our honeymoon spot!) and said I could see the Nurse Practitioner if I really wanted to, or I could skip. Um, that was an easy one… I chose “skip.” Which I never would have done last time around! This time, I’m hoping the two weeks off gives me a chance to actually progress a bit. (There was nada progress at my 36 week appointment.) And… I’m now taking any and all tips to get this baby to DROP. So, comment away on that topic, if you have something to share.

For this pregnancy, I’ve been trying to include Kenton in my bump shots, but that is getting harder and harder to accomplish. See…

He is a toddler on the move. Also, he’s feeling much better after his tummy bug and subsequent trip to the ER last week. MUCH better. He’s actually smiling now and his appetite is back with a vengeance. (We’re talking full, adult-size servings. Amazing.)

So, will this crazy kid have a little brother or sister? You can still vote in our poll!

PS – this is THE LAST BUMP PHOTO POST you will read at this url. New blog launches NEXT WEEK! YIPPEE!!!

10/3/12, 38 weeksTwo weeks to go. TWO WEEKS. This is getting serious, people.

38 weeks!

Since my child had no interest in hanging out near me for today’s photo, I lured him close with a set of keys. Works like a charm – every time. 

Look different? The belly dropped this week. I see it. Jason sees it. A friend I see once a week saw me last night and said, “WOAH! You dropped.” So, it’s confirmed – whether you see it or not.

What’s also confirmed is that I’ve made no progress. My OB appointment this week was basically the same as two weeks ago. We are closed for business. The bod is still holding on tightly to this babe. And it’s all feeling a little FAMILIAR and FRUSTRATING.

Also, I will have a baby three weeks from today if not before – as I scheduled a c-section for 10/24. BUT… we’re not going to need that appointment, RIGHT?! Because you’re all praying for some action and that this baby comes on his/her own… right?! If not, you’d better start. I’m also accepting any and all suggestions to get things going and/or get the baby to drop. So… hit me.

P.S. – I have my last pre-baby hair appointment today – HALLELUJAH! – Until then, LONG.LIVE.THE.PONYTAIL.

10/12/12, 39 weeksSo… this post has been in the making for a couple of days. (AKA – it’s two days late). Whatever… It’s been an adventurous 39th week, including a little trial run to Labor & Delivery. Yet….

39 weeks! (+2 days)

Still pregnant!

That’s my studious look, by the way. I haven’t exactly had time or felt like taking a bump pic the last couple of days – but finally forced myself to this morning. I wanted to show the front of the bump too – as it looks GINORMOUS from the side, and a lot smaller from the front. I still have a waistline (!), which shocks me. You probably can’t tell from this picture as I’m not even wearing a maternity shirt, but I know the truth. You’ll just have to believe me.

The differences between my two pregnancies are becoming more apparent the longer we go. Kenton was a maniac in the womb. Constant movement. I would barely poke my belly and he would respond with violent kicks and punches. This baby, notsomuch. I get an occasional kick, but not a forceful one – more of a strrrrreeeeeetch, then back to sleep. So, when this baby ramped up the movements Sunday and Monday this week, it was nice. I also had a few contractions and was hopeful those were signs that things were starting to happen.

Then, on Tuesday, nothing. No contractions and barely any movement from the bambino. I didn’t think much of it, but was more conscious of lying still (which is nearly impossible with a toddler on the loose) and doing kick counts. Overnight, I didn’t sleep well and didn’t feel the baby at all. I woke at 4:00am on Wednesday, went downstairs, drank a glass of cold lemonade and lay on my left side (Dr’s orders!) for an hour and felt exactly three “movements.” I say “movements” because they weren’t even kicks – they were subtle enough that it could have been a dead baby floating around aimlessly in there. Sorry, but that’s where our mind goes – right, mommies?

I called the nurse on call, who told me to head in to the hospital to be checked. I called my dad (the Dr) who confirmed that was a good idea. (That phone call also woke my mom who started heading our way to take care of Kenton so Jason could join me. Three cheers for having amazing, helpful family in town!).

So, I drove myself to L&D. Thankfully, there was no one else in triage – so I was seen right away. They strapped a couple of monitors to my belly and I immediately heard that strong, reassuring heartbeat.

The nurse did what I asked my OB not to do at my appointment earlier this week – checked me “down there.” She confirmed what I did not want to hear – still closed for business. Grr. Then, she took a little sound machine (looks like a cross between a microphone and a vibrator) and put it on the outside of my belly. It made a loud noise and vibration that made the baby JUMP and probably scared the meconium out of him/her. But… that was a great sign that everything was okay. They monitored the baby for about an hour and ruled everything was fine. I left in time to make it to school to give my midterm. My students have no idea how close they were to getting a huge break on that assignment!

This was a first for me. I never had a false alarm trip to the hospital with Kenton and was quite proud of that. In fact, I told Jason repeatedly during that pregnancy, we were not going to the hospital until it was time to actually have a baby.

Do I regret going this week? Nope. Was it overkill? Absolutely not. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.

I had read this important blog about that (including the comments – especially the one from Lauren). That was replaying in my mind as I made the drive that morning. I also apologized to the nurse who treated me, who responded by basically saying the exact same thing Lauren did. She said that too many women don’t want to “bother” their doctors or the hospital staff and wait until it’s too late. Ugh! Can you imagine?! She said it was no problem to hook me up to a couple of monitors for a bit to make sure everything was okay. And I am so glad I did that.

So, that’s my solemn reminder to anyone reading this – today or in the future, who comes across this post via some random Google search… Get thee to a hospital! Make sure that baby is okay. If something is wrong, you’ll likely never want to forgive yourself for not going – SO, GO.

Okay, lecture over. (I didn’t get to give one in class due to said midterm, so you got one instead.)

The other thing about this week… I’m no longer a good mom. It’s true. I realized that in full force Tuesday – which was just a mommy and me day with Kenton. My energy level is at an all-time low and my physical abilities are limited. I turned my back for mere seconds and my sweet, little, ball of energy son was (quite literally) standing on top of tables.

That’s it. I’m done. The white flag is raised. I need my mommy. So, she’s going to be helping me out the next few days and then next Tuesday, my MIL arrives from Maine and we are SO EXCITED that she will be here. She has not seen Kenton since May. So, they have some reconnecting and bonding to do – and I will gladly hand him over so I can concentrate on resting and getting ready to have a baby.

A baby that will hopefully be as mellow on the outside as he/she is on the inside of the womb!