Post-Christmas, 23 weeks/Starting 24!

So...Christmas is over. Back to the daily grind!

Christmas was really nice this year. We got to see family. Got some wonderful gifts for Molly, including the big items we wanted (thanks, mom and dad!). We didn't end up seeing Sherlock Holmes2 like we thought we would, but that's ok. I was too tired after Christmas Eve to stay up for another few hours.

Christmas day was exciting because we had the other side of the family over for dinner, which turned out lovely. Had some great conversation and lots of good food (leftovers, yay!) and just overall had a nice weekend.

I can't believe 2012 is starting in a week. Where on earth did 2011 go?

Anyway! This week developmentally for Molly, I guess her face is almost all formed (whoa!) and she's going to start gaining weight from now until she's born. Yay! I also have been feeling her move quite often and regularly which is amazing. Also have figured out feeling where she is without her moving about (figured that out last night) and that is really cool. Hubby spent a good chunk last night just listening to her move about. He tried to hear her heartbeat with a stethoscope, which didn't work out as well, but she definitely could feel it and kicked it every time he moved it. Hehe.

In terms of pregnancy, I'm actually feeling great! The only real complaint I have is that my back has been hurting like mad a whole lot. I'm going to ask my doctor about that, next appointment I have (Middle of January). I can see why they say this is the best part of pregnancy. I have all my energy back (mostly), feel amazing, and look pretty good, if I do say so myself.

This week is another short week of work, as is next week. Get to skip out on the evil Mondays, woot! And hopefully things keep looking up and getting better as the new year kicks off. Though I can't imagine them not, given in four shorts months, we'll be holding our amazing Molly in our arms. Oh my goodness!

Picture from Christmas Eve (Week..23, I believe). As Hubby said, it's impossible for me to not look pregnant, which I do not mind in the slightest. Also, belly button is doing weird things. 0_o

Life

Molly is kicking like crazy. My back is hurting like nobody's business (a trip to a chiropractor might be in my future). We have to say bye to dear friends this week. I feel like I grew overnight. Christmas is in 4ish days. Family is in town. 


And we have officially started a Baby Registry at Target.




....where on earth did 2011 go??  

21 Weeks + Lots of other exciting things

So...as you can tell, I'm about 2 weeks behind on this blog. But I have a very good reason for this! I was out of town last weekend! 


I went to visit my Twin, and had an absolutely lovely time. We relaxed, ate good food, wandered around all of the old places. I found some fun things for myself, some Christmas gifts for Hubby, and a couple things for Molly. 


It was a much-needed relaxing mini-vacation. I figured last weekend was the best weekend given that it was just after Thanksgiving but still far enough ahead of Christmas to not get in the way of all the Christmas craziness. Plus, 5 months pregnant is just enough to show off, but not enough for me to be super exhausted. I don't think. I'm still new to all of this, of course. 


Anyway, I had a lovely time! 


This past week was relatively uneventful. Work, school, office Christmas party. 


Oh! I never told you about the Ultrasound appointment besides the picture! Well, we ended up waiting around for a good hour and a half or so, and then got seen for a grand total of 30 minutes probably. The guy was incredibly efficient. I am chuckling to say that Molly did not cooperate very much. As in, she would not move. She just kind laid there and when he tried to get her to move (ouch), she just would turn her head and then go back to sucking her thumb. But! He is 95% sure she is a she. I have another appointment in January, and I'm guessing it will be a LOT easier to see then. 


Though, typical, she then started moving up a STORM just a day or two after the appointment. And now won't stop moving. It's a very obvious "whomp whomp" too. Not any fluttering anymore. 


Which leads to my next exciting news! Hubby got to feel Molly kick last night! Several times, in fact!! The first time we were watching a movie, and she was moving quite a lot, so I told him to stick his hand where she was moving. He suddenly got this look on his face and went, "Was that-...?" "yep!" He wouldn't move his hand the rest of the movie. Then we went and laid in bed talking. She really started moving about, and I told him to feel her. He was getting confused a bit between his hand with his pulse, so he stuck his head on my stomach (well, ear/cheek), and Molly promptly kicked him in the head. Or elbowed him. We aren't sure. But at any rate, I then went, "Hi Molly!" And she went crazy. He then said the same thing, and she started moving around and kicking. He could actually hear her moving around and such. 


This was an amazing end to a wonderful happy day, because yesterday marked our 5th year of being together! Yes, five years ago yesterday, the love of my life asked me out on a date to the LA Library to study for finals. Five years later, we are having a daughter! Amazing! 


As for Molly's growth, apparently she is the size of a large banana (seriously, who comes up with these analogies?) and can actually taste the food I eat! Or rather, has her tastebuds developing. So if I want her to love her veggies when she's born, better start eating them now. Haha. I have an appointment with my regular OB this Wednesday. Should just be a routine checkup! 


Next post might not be for a couple of weeks, given that Christmas is only 2 weeks away (EEP!) and Hubby's family is flying in a week from today (yay!). So I'm going to assume that these next two weeks are going to be super busy and crazy. Need to finish Christmas shopping, mail out packages, bake, etc. 


That's it from me!


Here's the photo I took earlier in the week. I can't believe we're over halfway there! 

It's a....

GIRL! 

Molly Katherine. We are so excited! 

Week 19/20

I'm not going to have a very big post today.


 (EDIT: Apparently, I had more to talk about than I thought.) 


It's been a lovely, lazy week! Mostly because I've been off work since Thursday!


Thanksgiving was wonderful and relaxing. We slept in. I made cinnamon rolls for breakfast. We got to see family we hadn't seen in a bit, and eat lots of good food, and just enjoy being with each other. Had great conversations. Had my belly touched a lot which I did not mind in the slightest. And otherwise, enjoyed the day. 


Then we slept in (again) on Friday (Yay no work!!), and Hubby got invited last minute to go shooting. So I just stayed home, relaxed, watched a couple movies, and then proceeded to read the first two books of The Hunger Games. I've read them before, but didn't get a chance to read the final one. So I decided to read the first two again before jumping right into Mockingjay. I was so glad I did! I whittled away about 5 hours reading those two books, and then spent Saturday reading Mockingjay. That series is currently one of my favorite, and I am very excited for the movie coming in March! 


Saturday evening, I decided to take Hubby out on a date! We went and watched J. Edgar--fascinating movie!--and did the whole popcorn/drink combo thing. It was a lot of fun, and we both enjoyed the movie and the date a lot.


Today, I went to Target to grab some stuff we needed, hoping that the craziness of Black Friday had gone away. Thankfully, it had! Though the mall right across the street looked absolutely insane. I think if I ever need to go to the mall, I'm going to have Hubby drop me off and then pick me up so I don't have to deal with parking. Ugh. 


In Baby news, still growing. Getting fat and all that good stuff! Though I think the most exciting thing for me is feeling Baby totally kicking me off and on! It's such a strange amazing feeling! I am also super excited for this week! Thursday, we have our ultrasound and we'll find out the gender. Yay! And then Friday, I hop a train to go visit my Twin for the weekend! Soo excited! A much needed wonderful break!


Sadly, this means our condo won't be too festive till I get back. But oh well! I'll be baking and decorating soon. In the meantime, Christmas music! w00t! 


Here's the picture for this week! It's from Thanksgiving. I'm really popping! 

P.s. I cannot believe that I'll be 5 months pregnant in a week. I'm over halfway there! What! 

18 Weeks/19 weeks!

I don't have much to say tonight. I'm officially 18 weeks and beginning 19 weeks, w00t!! Though in 2 weeks I will be 5 months pregnant. And I can't help but go where on earth did the time go?? But I have a funny feeling that's just going to be the running mantra in my life for a while.

I'm very excited for Thanksgiving. And in a couple weeks, I get to go visit my Twin! I'm very excited about this, especially since it'll be right after my ultrasound, and I can tell her in person!

Anyway, here is my picture for this week.

Great Week!

So it has been a great week, and it's only Thursday! Yesterday was slightly frantic at work, well, who am I kidding? Mon-Wed was super frantic at work. I usually don't mind, but yesterday was killer. I had a big project to get done and also then had to go to class, early, because of a group project. However, got the project at work done in record time (even my Boss noticed and was super happy about it), and was able to help with the group project. Which, I might add, we all feel amazing about, and I think this has been the most fun I've had working with a group on a project! That is a great feeling, instead of feeling like our project is going to suck or get ruined or whatever else. 


I had a doctor's appointment yesterday! Everything went well. I'm right on track for where they want me, have only gained about 3 pounds since last appointment (which is right about where he wanted me). Though personally, I think I've gained about 5pounds in boobs alone. Yes, I did go there.


Anyway. Lab tests all came back great! The best news on that end of things was that I am negative for Alpha1!! Which I got tested for cause Hubby has it, and we were worried that if I'm a carrier, then Baby might have it. Looks like not though! w00t! 


Though the very best news from that entire appointment is that we have an ultrasound scheduled!! Should be for December 1st! We are soooo excited about {finally!} seeing our baby and finding out the gender and everything! Yes, we are finding out the gender.


In other news..........


Is anyone else flabbergasted (I love that word!) that Thanksgiving is in one week and that the Holidays are upon us? When on earth did that happen? 


I, for one, am looking forward to my 4-day weekend next week! I'm also thinking about Christmas shopping. Thinking. And looking online. Think I'm going to avoid going to the mall as much as possible from now until like....after Baby is born. Heh. I have some fun good ideas! Here's hoping they all work out and everyone likes them! 


I've also rediscovered the joys of having hair long enough to pin up! It's still pretty layered from when I had it super short, but it makes for fun wispy-endings! I absolutely love it.  I think I've only worn my hair down once this week! 


Hubby also took me on two lovely dates this week! The first was to Costco where we stocked up our pantry (yay!), and the second was to Benihana for their Chef Special for only $45 for the two of us. It was quite lovely. 


Anyway, that's about all from me today. It's been a great week and looks like it'll be a very fun weekend, and next is turning into a lovely short week! 

Week 17/18

This week hasn't had much exciting going on. 

I had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday....well, I was supposed to. I got there right on time and waited, but around 2:15, the doctor called to tell the nurses he won't be in today because of 2 c-sections and 3 women in labor at the hospital. Understandably, he couldn't make it. However, I saw one of the nurses, who took my blood pressure/weight and all that good stuff. Then tried to get Baby's heartbeat. When I say "try", I mean it took her about 5 different tries to pinpoint where Baby was because apparently, Baby did not like the Doppler at all. Baby was running away. I thought it was the funniest thing, and figured I might be in for some trouble with this one. Though a freind poitned out Baby could be just shy or something. Nurse eventually got Baby's heartbeat, and it was going as fast as ever (150s!). 

Everything looks good. I have another appointment on Wed, and I hope this time around we'll be able to schedule the ultrasound! All in good time, I suppose. I'm just rather impatient. 

I've taken to telling Baby goodnight every night, rubbing my belly, and also singing (though that's mostly me jsut singing along to songs). Pretty sure I've been feeling Baby off and on. Been getting a lot stronger. It's pretty cool! Baby certainly was not happy after the Doppler. Totally was kicking me. 

I've been doing pretty well. Popped out over the week, which is pretty cool. Definitely pregnant! Been getting headaches and feeling some round ligament pain, which isn't so fun, but oh well. I also have had trouble sleeping at night cause my back hurts. I mostly toss and turn and wake up multiple times, but what can you do. Apparently, over the weekend, I rolled over and my back popped so loud that Hubby glanced over and asked if I was ok. Ouch. He's tried to give me some backrubs but nothing's helping too much. Also getting some stretch marks, but I don't care terribly. Just figure it comes with the territory. 

Overall though, been feeling rather amazing. I finally feel back to my normal self! Well, as normal as I can feel being pregnant, but not feeling constantly sick/nauseous/throwing up is a nice nice change. 

I also went through my drawers and put away clothes that haven't/won't fit for a while, just to kind of get my bearings on what I have, what I might need, and what I just plain old want. Haha. Drawers look a bit bare now, but at least I kind of have an idea of what I do have and what I probably will need more of. 

I can't believe Thanksgiving is in a week and a half! Where on earth is the time going? Before we know it, our Baby will be here in our arms. Yikes. I should get working on that shopping list! 

Here's the picture for today. I took it on Friday, cause I really liked my outfit. 

4 Months!

I am officially four months pregnant today! When on earth did that happen?? I know everyone said time would be flying by while being pregnant, but I feel like I blinked and suddenly there we are.

Baby has fully developed ears and can hear sounds now. He/she can recognize our voices (whoa!), and hear music. Also, has sensitivity to light. Hubby hasn't tried shining a flashlight on my belly to see if Baby moves. Hehe. Apparently also just growing a LOT physically now. Can swallow, and practice breathing. Makes fists and sucks thumb (Oh dear, Baby gets that from Momma). Apparently the practice of swallowing and even sucking thumbs is for when Baby is born so he/she can more easily breastfeed. How cool is that!

In other exciting news, this is the first week that I haven't suffered from any nausea nor have I thrown up once! First time since August! I am very very happy about this fact. I have also been feeling some very suspicious flutters going on in my lower belly area. I don't know for sure if it is Baby or not, but I'm beginning to suspect it just might be! If they keep getting stronger over the weeks, guess we'll then know for sure!

I was very suspicious though when we were listening to Hubby's uncle play piano really loudly and suddenly all these flutters started happening! Baby must take after Hubby, loves loud music!

I have an appointment on Tuesday. Hopefully the doctor is happy with where I'm at, growth wise, and Baby is at and such.  I should also hear back on all the tests they did too, so that will be interesting. I'm also pretty sure that we'll then schedule an ultrasound (I certainly hope so!) because the nurse said he usually does them 18-20 weeks, and I'll be 16 and a 1/2. So hopefully we'll then find out the gender and how many are in there! I am very excited.

I've been doing a lot of research into natural birth, as well. I actually really like the idea, and my doctor even said they try to get you to do that cause it's healthier all around for both momma and baby. So I'm thinking I will be trying a natural birth! Barring any medical emergencies or problems, of course. I just really do not like the idea of having an epidural which slows down contractions and then getting fed steroids to speed them up and thus making labor "faster" but can be even more painful and damaging.

But like most things, Baby has its own way of coming around and such, so if it's better and healthier to do it the other way, then that's the way it is! I want a good healthy baby and a healthy labor for me. That is what counts, in the end.

Here is the picture for this week!

P.s. It's finally cold here!! Yay winter!

15 weeks/Starting 16 Weeks!

I am officially 15 weeks pregnant! Oh my goodness. That seems crazy to me, but apparently that's where I am at! 


Baby did a lot of developing this week. Ears are developed (baby can hear us now! So strange but amazing!), eyelids are still fused shut but the eyes can sense light! And is the size of an apple. Seriously, who comes up with these descriptions?? Apples are all sorts of sizes. Is my baby the size of a fuji apple? Or a red apple? Or a granny smith apple? ALL different. Oh well.


I had a decently good week, except for Thursday-Friday. Thursday I had a horrible day. Morning sickness plus a migraine equals me not feeling good at all for all of Thursday and a good portion of Friday. I was rather miserable, and everyone knew it because I was super pale. I actually went straight to bed when I got home from work (after throwing up my lunch), and slept from 6:30pm to about 8pm, ate half a yogurt, and then slept until my alarm went off in the morning. A grand total of over 12 hours. Apparently I needed sleep! 


As a secretary at work joked, "Oh you'll feel better! Apparently someone's going through a growth spurt!" Which was a much more fun way to think about it! 


And another wonderful symptom has started to show itself: nasal congestion. Ugh. Oh well. Such is life! 


Other than some bouts of morning sickness here and there, I've been feeling really good. Second Trimester is kind of nice. I hope it keeps being nice to me! Hehe. 


I have an appointment on November 8th, and I'll be 16 1/2 weeks or so. And then the nurse said my doctor usually will schedule an ultrasound between 18 and 20 weeks. So I am hoping this appointment, we can get one scheduled! And yes, find out how many are in there and the sex! Exciting, no? 


And in other news, it's finally starting to feel slightly fallish around here! Which makes me very happy. Cold in the mornings, for hot chocolate and tea and boots and scarves. Makes me a very happy camper. I love the fall/winter time. So so much! Plus, I love the cute bundled up pregnant lady look.


That's about it for me. Here's Week 15! 

Week 14/Starting Week 15!

Sorry that this post is a bit late. Had quite the busy weekend/last week, actually. For starters, had a project due for my Wednesday night class, so was working on that for Monday/Tuesday (along with the weekly Monday night go hang out with a friend for DWTS). 


Then my Twin came to visit from Thursday-Saturday! It was quite fun and busy, though. She went to D-Land on Friday, then I met up with her and another friend Friday evening for hanging out/dinner at Downtown Disney. Saturday we spent all day together, and then that night Hubby and I had a birthday party.

Sunday, Hubby's uncle came to visit for dinner and hanging out. Which was awesome. He hadn't been out to visit in a long while, so it was great to hang out and show him our place and all that. 


As you might be able to tell, I've been feeling much much much  better! 


Baby is growing steadily as far as I can tell. I'm eating well. Sleeping has been a bit of an issue lately, along with Round Ligament Pain. Ouch. That hurts. I don't notice it too much except when I try to roll over in bed, or I'm stretching a certain way. Then it's a nice sharp *twinge*. Not so fun, but oh well. 


My next appointment is on November 8th, and I'll be four months by then. Halfway through! Oh my gosh. Where is the time going?? Seriously. It's just flying by now! So far, I haven't had strangers trying to touch my belly. However, each and every one of my friends is. It's rather cute and hilarious. I don't mind. Most ask, first, which I appreciate.


I really cannot wait for the ultrasound! It was so amazing to hear baby's heartbeat, I can't wait to actually see baby!! And see how many are in there, hehe. 


But honestly, this time--well, now that I'm not throwing up or nauseous--has been amazing. I've got so many books at home I need to read. And I should really start thinking about baby furniture and clothes and diapers and all that other stuff. Eep! For now, though, just going to enjoy. I'll probably worry about that next week. 


That's it for me! No picture this time around. But hey, not much change from last week to this week. Though I keep getting told I look like I've lost weight everywhere else. Makes me giggle slightly. I'll definitely post a picture for Week 16!

13 Weeks! Second Trimester!

This week has been very up and down for me. Lots of stress at work. Had some pretty bad morning sickness Wednesday-Friday. I had to call my doctor.

But! I got into the doctor on Tuesday!! I got my physical done, blood drawn, etc, and we got to hear the heartbeat of our baby! It was the most amazing/awesome/breathtaking sound I have ever heard. I was chatting with the nurse and the doctor about some questions and then all of a sudden this

 "thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump thump" 

sound! I just stopped and kind of giggled. Hubby just stared and then grinned. It was an amazing sound. Baby was coming in at 152bpm. Apparently it should be between 110-160, so very strong heartbeat and fast. 

Other than that, this week was a bit stressful. I couldn't keep food down for a couple days, and I had to call my doctor. He told me that if it kept up, I should go to the hospital to get IV'd (which, in an odd way, makes me happy that I can go to the hospital if I need to!). Thankfully, I've been eating pretty regularly now, and trying to keep things down. It seems like my first trimester was just trying to go out with a bang. 

Speaking of which, 13 weeks today! Which means, I am totally in my second trimester! A third of the way through my pregnancy. How strange is that? Well, technically, I am starting 14 weeks today. I guess. Anyway, Second Trimester! A third of the way through!! 

Baby is growing well and is moving about and has hair and finger/toes etc. And now is really moving about. I can't wait to see the ultrasound!

Anyway. That is this week. Here is the picture! First one I actually really like. 

Officially 3 months!

Today marks the day. I am officially three months pregnant! And starting Week 13 (which, I think, means one more week until the 2nd Trimester!).

Or as Hubby put it, I'm 1/3rd of the way through pregnancy! Whoa. Scary thought, isn't it??

I've been feeling pretty good, well, feeling better almost daily. My nausea still kicks in at times, but I can usually point at why (can you say not enough sleep?). The only real complaint I have had this week is that I caught a headcold (both Hubby and I did, his is worse than mine though), and I felt pretty miserable over the week. I stayed home from work yesterday because I felt awful, couldn't wake up, and almost passed out calling my boss. I then passed out until 4pm. I still feel pretty "bleh", but that extra sleep sure did help a lot. Because of being sick, I may or may not take a picture. I have one from earlier in the week I might post, but when I'm sick the last thing I want to do is take pictures. Hah.

Baby is growing! Apparently, Baby can suck his/her thumb, start making fists, and is also moving around a LOT. And, can cry silently. And feel pain. Which broke my heart to find out. Also, intestines are formed and moving to their rightful spots, and Baby weighs as much as a peach or something like that. I never can quite figure out the whole fruit/veggie analogies but oh well!

Exciting exciting news!! I received all of my insurance information, which means I am going to an OB on Thursday!! Finally! I hope I like him. I found out that an OB I had gone to a few years ago was on the list of ones I could see, but she doesn't do births anymore. So this is who she referred me to. The nurse I talked with was really nice, so I have hope I'll like this OB! I--we!--can't wait to hear our little one's heartbeat, and to make sure everything is going well. And yes, as so many have joked, find out if we're having twins or not. Lol.

That is about it for me. I'm sleeping a lot, drinking juice, and taking Vit C like crazy. Since I'm not allowed to take any cold medicine (joy).

I will definitely do an update on Thursday about how my appointment went!

Week 12!

This week has been rather normal, in all senses. I've been super tired most days and nights, but my nausea is also lessening, which is such a relief! I went grocery shopping and was very excited for all the veggies/fruits I bought. 


The very best thing that happened this week was finding out that AIM had reviewed my application and accepted me! They said taht my packet was sent out last week, and I received said packet today! w00t! Anthem Blue Cross will be sending me my insurance card by the 8th of October. I am very happy about this. Many thanks to my wonderful hubby for taking care of it. I will be able to get into the doctor soon! Hooray!! 


Other than that, this week was normal. I feel like I'm getting into a routine of sorts, even if said routine is just getting used to being exhausted and falling asleep by 9pm every night. Ha. School has hit its stride, work is work, and life is life. 


Although, I will say, I am floored that I am starting Week 12 today! Hello one (or two according to other friends) more week until I'm done with the First Trimester!! I usually count that as months, so as of today, I am 2 months and 3 weeks into my pregnancy. Wow! I am floored, amazed, and in awe that it's already been almost 3 months! 


Anyway. That is my update this week. Not too much mostly because I think I caught a bit of a headcold and I am not feeling 100% today. Because of that, I will post a picture from the other day of an adorable maternity dress Hubby's aunt let me have. It's a nice, simple black dress. Super comfy and I can imagine all sorts of outfits with it! Hooray! 

That's about it for me! Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

P.s., if you look closely you can even see my bump! ;) 

So very happy

So, I will post an "official" update tomorrow about this past week. But one thing that I found out yesterday that makes me so happy:


AIM reviewed my application and it is APPROVED!! 


I should get the packet any day now, and can start getting into the doctor by October 8th! Such a huge relief and so exciting! 


Anyway, just wanted to let everyone know that. I'll do a more thorough official update tomorrow about Week 11 and starting Week 12 (and thus practically done with the First Trimester!). 

Picture!

Here I am starting 11 Weeks! :)

Week 11 (Or, the very bad no good awful week)

Good news, bad news, good news. 


Bad news first! 


First, had a pretty awful week. Didn't sleep enough, felt sick for most of it. Ate as regularly as I could, but stomach just wasn't liking it at all. Instant Breakfast has become my savior during the morning, because it is about the only thing that I can regularly drink without feeling worse. So this week just wasn't that great at all.


Then (now I want to preface this other thing as bad news but turns into good news. So don't freak out): 


I got my letter from AIM. It was a rejection, claiming we made "too much" money. Now, bright side, they totally did their math wrong. So we wrote a letter appealing the decision and faxed it in Friday morning along with our tax returns.


This will lead into the good news. Hubby then called that afternoon to make sure they got everything and if they needed anything else and to make sure they would correct their mistake. So good: They always take the lowest income you send in (even if you've already sent in paystubs that are higher), they will review it, and given that the only reason I didn't get accepted was because of income being "too high", that should fix the problem! Bad thing: It could take up to 15 business days to get it all done. So more waiting for us, I suppose. I'm hoping that since I'm already in the system it won't take that long. But we shall see. 


More good news, Hubby then took me out to Olive Garden because I was so stressed and tired and worn out after that, so that was lovely. I didn't eat as much as I wanted but oh well. My appetite is coming and going. It's very weird right now. But I'm glad I at least have some sort of appetite. 


Anyway, today marks the beginning of Week 11 for Baby! Which all I can say, is this past week has been the most tiring for me. I've been exhausted even going to bed early! I decided, last night, to take a nap around 7:15, thinking I'd sleep for an hour, wake up and watch a movie with Hubby. I ended up going to bed and not waking up at all until about 11am (not counting the run to the bathroom moments of waking up). I slept for almost 15 hours! Apparently I was tired! The bad thing about this though was the fact that I hadn't eaten since lunch yesterday. Yah, dizzy, tired, nauseated me in the morning. I finally did get up and eat and feel much better now. 


It's hard to believe that Baby is forming fists and is now moving about! And forming teeth! Apparently Baby will be practically fully formed by the end of this week. Wow! How amazing is that! And I'm almost done with the First Trimester! How crazy! Time is juts flying by! I cannot believe it. 


No picture (yet) today. I haven't been feeling so great all week, and definitely NOT in the mood to take a picture of myself. Maybe later or tomorrow, when I'm feeling better. 


Anyway though, I'm doing ok. I caught up on sleep, thankfully. Am eating more regularly. Insurance will hopefully be all taken care of, I just have to be patient for now. And I'm hoping that the 2nd Trimester, while not make me feel normal, will at least alleviate some of these annoying things. 


I am super excited to meet this Baby! I cannot wait to hear the heartbeat! 

Starting 10 Weeks!

I'm starting my 10th week today! Oh my goodness, time is flying by! It's been almost 5 1/2 weeks since we found out!

I have been feeling much better now, thank goodness. I have been eating pretty regularly, have figured out things that I can eat that help with my nausea. And I discovered stress and/or lack of sleep makes it worse (Oh imagine that!). Though I have discovered I haven't been able to sleep very well right now. Pillow under my knees have helped, but not much. Everything is kind of achy. And I definitely waking up much slower than normal. But trying to figure out my routine and getting there.

I can't believe Baby already has finger nails and toe nails! And fingers and toes. And forming joints, and vital organs. Baby is moving already too! And growing hair! Baby is only an inch long! This is mindblowing for me. Wow. 

In good news, I called AIM  Friday to make sure they got my application, and if I would receive  information soon. I sent it in on the 6th, and they received it on the 8th! So it was pending still on Friday, but they should be sending out my information Monday! So here is hoping everything is good, and I can get into the doctor by the end of this coming week! And we can see what's been going on with Baby and all that good stuff. 

I also found out one of my friends (pregnant buddy, yay!) is having twins!! They are sooo excited! 

All in all, things have been going well. I'm feeling pretty good except for nausea most of the day (but hey, at least I can eat!), and being exhausted and going to bed by 9pm. Which is very strange for this nightowl. 

Here I am at 9 weeks/Beginning of 10! 

Birthday

Happy Birthday, Mum.


 I hope you had a wonderful day.


 I meant to post this earlier while at work but our internet completely died. 


I miss you and love you. 


xoxo

Update

Well, hopefully not speaking too soon, but my morning sickness, for now, seems to have abated quite a bit. Wondering if perhaps I caught a flu...


I was able to keep down 3 pieces of toast yesterday, plus some chicken broth and more toast! And I woke up feeling a lot less nauseated and was actually a little hungry. 


So whether it was the flu or just morning sickness, I hope this trend keeps going. Or at the very least, the morning sickness only last a couple days, then I can eat for a few, etc. 


Will keep everyone updated, but so far, today seems like it'll be a nice day! 

Morning Sickness

So apparently my hope that I would only have minor nausea during the 1st Trimester was a false hope. Morning sickness is currently kicking my butt. I haven't been able to keep anything down since Tuesday evening, and I feel awful.

I've been trying everything people are suggesting, from ginger to sea-bands to Dramamine to Popsicles. The only things I have found that make it a bit easier to bear are a glass of milk, lots of sleep, and sometimes being able to choke down half a banana and praying I keep it down.

I open to other suggestions, because so far, this is miserable. Only 3 1/2weeks to go till my 2nd Tri and hopefully then I will be back to normal!

Birthday!

Happy Birthday, Natalie! Here's to a wonderful year as you start your Sr year and figure out what you're going to do with the rest of your life! 

 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! 

Much love from us <3 

(Kind of) Wordless Wednesday

I took a picture of myself today, because I do want to start documenting the pregnancy. And because, I couldn't quite believe it myself. 


Here is Baby at 6.5 weeks. 

Was anyone else showing like this at 6.5 weeks? Cause I for sure did not expect to be. The two thoughts going through my head are "OMG Twins?" and "Maybe I'm much farther along than I expected." 


Any advice? I'm finishing up my insurance paperwork this week, and hopefully can get into the doctor for my ultrasound and such in a few weeks. I know, I know. I won't be able to really  know anything until then. But still, fun speculating, right? 

Baby: 7 Weeks

I am currently in my 7th week of pregnancy. This is mind-boggling and amazing to me. My--our--baby has a heartbeat already! And is forming baby teeth. And limbs that will soon have fingers and toes. 


This baby that is growing inside of me. 


It's a completely strange and wonderous feeling. I keep putting my hand on my stomach, as if I could feel he/she already. I can't, not really. And yet, I can. I feel different. More than just the whole morning sickness/bloating/dizziness. I can't quite put my finger on it. I want to say something like I'm part of something bigger than myself, which I suppose is true. 


I think it's more just a constant sense of wonderment. Life is different for me. In less than 9 months, I will have a beautiful baby boy or girl in my arms. This person that is entrusted to me but is still entirely their own person. That we will help shape and grow and develop but in the end, will be themselves, no matter what. I cannot wait to encourage that. 


I didn't realize how much love you can have for someone that's barely in existence. I think of this baby and my heart overflows already. I've started talking to him/her. Baby will recognize our voices from the womb. Can you believe that? Soon I'll start singing to him/her. (I need a better nickname for Baby). 


This is a strange, amazing, glorious new adventure. I cannot wait to see more of it. Even if I do feel huge already, my clothes are still fitting (thank god I own mostly leggings, skirts, and dresses!), and I have a crazy desire for bananas. Yes, bananas. And mexican food. No, I don't understand it. 


Just some of my thoughts at the moment. I am now about to fall asleep at the keyboard, so I will head to bed. Expect many more posts about the baby, though. After all, that's where my mind will be for the next several months. 


P.s., our vacation was lovely! Lots of good food, rest, relaxation, and just overall hanging out. It wasn't as exciting as last year's, but we think that that is because we had done it before. It wasn't new and we are ok with that. It was a much more relaxed not needing to do everything kind of vacation. We needed it. 


Classes have also started. They are going beautifully and I'm loving each and every one of them! 

Baby

So, as many have guessed, Hubby and I are expecting a new addition to our family in about 9 months! The estimated due date is April 21st, 2012. 


I got my blood-work done on Tuesday, got the results yesterday. Apparently I am very pregnant. I guess 371hcg is high but in normal range? Some friends have already started teasing about twins. So I guess we will see! Either way, we are having a baby! I am very very excited. We both are. 


With both of us getting raises and paying off debts, we decided that now was a great time to start our family! I went off birth control in July, and suddenly, here we are! Neither of us expected it to happen so quickly. I was sorta hoping, but I figured it would take a few months for my body to regulate back to being off birth control. Apparently not! 


We are both super super excited. And we were so happy we were able to find out while we were back in VA visiting family. We were able to tell them in person, instead of having to do a phone-call! We then spent the evening calling other family on speakerphone. Needless to say, everyone is super excited! 


It's very strange to think that in 9 months, I will be holding our baby. I still can't get over that I have a baby growing inside of me right now. Our very own baby.  Wow. It feels real and yet doesn't, quite. 


I'm sure the more time goes along, the more real everything will become. But for now, I'm going to bask in the joy and awe that there's a baby, growing. Inside of me! 




And also go eat lots of sour cream, tomatoes, and honey mustard. Cause apparently, that's what I want now. 


P.s. Also, CRUISE IS THIS WEEKEND! 

Announcement

Birthday Thoughts

Today is my birthday. I am 24 years old. Oddly enough, unlike other birthdays, this one does feel different. Mostly because I feel like I've gone from my early 20s to embarking on my mid-20s. Strange. Especially when I look back at what's happened in the last four-five years in my life. 


It's strange to think of who I was even just a year ago, let alone three or four. I feel like I have more willingly and easily come into myself, figured out who I am and what I want from life. I feel...settled. And not in a bad way. Just, no more turmoil. I know who I am. 


I....accepted. That's probably the word. I have accepted and embraced who I am. That really happened this past year. It took a lot of growing and internal conflict, along with a lot of really good soul-searching and seeking. But I finally am happy with myself. Well, happy's not the right term. It's too shallow. Mmm...I feel at peace with who I am. That's a better term. Relaxed, peaceful, and happy. 


Not to say I won't continue to grow. I will. I will always be growing and learning more about myself. But for now, I feel very settled into who I am. And, after the years of turmoil, struggle, and stress, it feels really good. 


This past year has not been anything spectacular (in terms of things that happened). Things progressed as they always do. Life was life. And it feels like yesterday I was celebrating last year's birthday. 


This year, though. This year is going to be interesting. Big changes coming up. New adventures on the horizon. 


I am honestly excited to see what this year is going to hold. And how many adventures will happen. Who knows where I'll be this time next year? (Oh goodness, let's just stick with this year for now). 


In 9 days, Hubby and I will be leaving for a glorious 9 days of vacation. 


In 2 days, we will be leaving to see Hubby's brother's play in VA (Thanks Mom and Dad!). 


All in all, the next week will fly by, and then we will be on vacation. What a great way to start a new year! (Erm, in my life, not the New Year).  


There are things today that I am very grateful for and also things I miss. 


Yellow cake with chocolate frosting. 
That one cake stand. 
So many candles you set off the fire alarm.
Presents. 
Mum's hugs. 
Brother and sisters. 
Friends I haven't seen for a while, whether because of time or distance.
Good friends. 
My job.
My husband. 


All in all, I am a very blessed and loved woman. And I am very thankful for the last 24 years, and I cannot wait to see what the next 24 have in store. Many more adventures, I would imagine. 

Impatient

6 days until my birthday, 12 days until classes start, 16 days until our cruise. 


I hope time flies. 

Crazy busy weekend!

So this weekend was intense. Well, not too intense. More like, we spent most of it cleaning and reorganizing and rearranging furniture. Because, a roommate moved in! Hubby and I spent most of Saturday evening (if I'm totally honest) cleaning and going through boxes in the garage , the furniture in there, and getting it all straightened out so we could fit another car in the garage. I am happy to say we did it, and our garage is spotless! We also cleaned out hte spare bedroom, moved a bookshelf inot the living room (which added more space for books. Whee!), and moved Hubby's desk out of our room into the garage and my desk into our bedroom. We also moved our chest of drawers into the closets, and suddenly, our room looks huge! We have so much floorspace and everything is so much more organized now. It's amazing. And Alice (our cat) seems to like it too. She keeps lounging about in all different spots. And the sunlight is all over our room now, too. Which is probably what she likes.


We worked from 6pm to 2:30am on Saturday getting everything done. Why so late, you might ask. Well mostly because it had by then cooled off enough in the garage and the house that we weren't going to be dying from the heat trying to move and lift and shift all the things we needed to. And then went to Denny's to celebrate!


Yesterday, we went down to Laguna to spend some time with Aunt Kammie! We went to Johnny Rocket's for dinner, saw Cowboys & Aliens (really fun movie!), and then she let me borrow 2 cute vintage dresses for Formal Night on our Cruise. She also gave me this adorable Alice in Wonderland alarm clock! I forgot to take a picture of it cause I wanted to show it off, so I'll have to do that later tonight.  


All in all, a really good weekend! 


It should be interesting having a roommate. We'll all have to get used to living with each other, but I'm not worried about it. And the extra cash plus both of us having raises means we are in a pretty good spot right now. We're able to start paying off debt we've been wanting to for a while and free up even more cash.  


This summer has been an amazing one, when it comes to good things happening. God has really blessed us. Here is hoping good news keeps on coming! 


Oh and classes start in two weeks, which I got all of the ones I needed! w00t! 


Birthday Countdown: 9 Days.
Cruise Countdown: 20 Days.


Sooo excited! 

Waiting waiting waiting.........

Playing the waiting game. Waiting for my birthday. Waiting for the cruise. Waiting for school to start. Waiting for other things to work out. 


Just waiting. Feels like my life right now is on hold and just floating and waiting for things to change. 


.....I loathe waiting.....

It's amazing how so many things can change in less than 24 hours. 


Wind's blowing, change is coming. I can feel it. 


But telling would take all the fun. Sorry, Sweetie, spoilers. You'll have to wait and see like everyone else. 

Summer Blues

Does anyone else feel like the summer is dragging? Then again, I say that, and July is halfway over. Already. Days are dragging, months are flying, I suppose. 

I've just been so tired lately. I have that feeling of trying desperately to keep up with how fast my feet are going so I don't fall flat on my face. I sleep enough (usually). I know I am busy. I'm not that stressed about things. If anything, I'm super relaxed about stuff because things are looking up and steadily so. I got a raise, we're paying off debt, etc etc. 

So why do I feel like I haven't slept a wink? Why does my body feel like it's been working overtime even if I've slept for 10 hours? 

I knew this summer would be busy. It is. It really is. But it's also been loads of fun. I haven't had issues keeping up with my classes. I'm enjoying them. Seeing friends, hanging out with people, going out. 

I think what it comes down to is I just feel tired. Tired of being at work day after day. Tired of doing the same thing over and over again. I need a vacation. I need to get away for a while, to relax, to not worry about anything. To just be away and relax and have fun and let the cares of everything just melt.

Thankfully, our cruise is in 39 [long] days. And then I will be able to laze about on the ship and not worry about anything for 9 whole days. 

Hey August, wanna hurry it up a bit? 

Summertime is here!

Whoa. Brand new format. This is...kind of awesome and kind of weird... Huh. 


Anyway.


It's officially the summer! And by that I mean our weekends are slowly but surely filling up and before I know it, it's going to be September! I mean, it's already the middle of June. I swear just last week it was January. This year is certainly flying by. It's June. And not just June, the middle of June! When on earth did that happen?? 2011 is already halfway over. Goodness. 


In amazing news, we have officially paid off our cruise, as of June 2nd! Now we just get to wait, save up, and wait some more until August 21st. Then it's off on a week-long vacation to Mexico again and not worrying about a damned thing! We are soooo excited about this trip again. One of the best vacations we've ever taken together. And longest. Going to be amazing!


Speaking of summer business, I have also enrolled in 12units beginning June 20th! Going to be rather busy and crazy from then until August 19th, but so worth it. Getting some good ECE units out of the way which leaves me with only 3 units to finish up this fall until I have my CDA! Which then means I can start applying places if I so choose. Though in this economy, not many places are hiring. Talk about making you feel grateful you have a steady job. Which also leads to the other amazing news that has made this summer that much more awesome, I am getting a raise tomorrow! I don't know how much but every little bit helps, and it's a raise! So I am very excited. It'll just help us more, even if it's only a buck. 


Oh, back to school for a second. I'm seriously considering going for a Special Education Certification. There's definitely a LOT more need in that area. Plus, I think I want to get a Translator's certification (I don't know if that's the right term at the moment) in ASL, too. Which would also make me much more desirable for hire. Especially at the young ages. So that will probably be another year or so of schooling, but I don't mind. It's good and will help me get a better job when I do search for one. 


Hubby and I have been doing some talking, and we are currently figuring out the next steps in our life. Like paying off debt and such. We have had some good (and some rather stressful but turned into good) talks about it. And I think we have the rest of the year figured out, financially and such. Barring any extreme things, of course. Which is rather strange for me to be thinking in terms of the next couple of years, but a good strange thing. Some fun good changes coming up but I'm not saying anything until they are finalized! Spoilers, sweetie.


That's about it for me for now. Summer business is coming up. Celebrating birthdays (my friends' babies are turning one!), weddings, and anniversaries. Should be a wonderful fun summertime! Hooray! ^_^ 

Mother's Day

Happy [belated] Mother's Day, Mum. 


I love you and I miss you.


I wish I could have given you a hug yesterday.....

"I've never wished a man dead, but I have read some obituaries with great pleasure."

Last night, I watched President Obama announce live on BBC that Osama bin Laden was killed in Pakistan.

As I watched his speech, my mind went racing as I remembered that day ten years ago as if it had just happened. I woke up around 7:15 to the radio hosts talking about how the World Trade Center had been bombed. I turned on the TV in my room just as the first Tower fell. I remember just sitting there in shock. I ran to my parents' bedroom and woke up my mom, saying the WTC Tower was bombed. She said something like, "Again??" and turned on the small TV in her bedroom. I remember her eyes getting so wide as we both sat there watching the live coverage. And suddenly the second plane came and we couldn't take our eyes off of it as it struck the second Tower, and it fell.

I remember walking about in a daze, in shock that it had happened. I remember thinking that this must have been what Pearl Harbor had felt like. The utter shock, vulnerability, anger, and sadness that it had happened...that so many people had died.

It's been [almost] ten years, but you could never forget the images and footage of all the ash, soot, debris...everything.

Now, Osama Bin Laden is dead.

As my hubby said, "I mourn that a man made in the image of God made choices that brought him to a place where he committed mass murder.

I do not mourn the fact that his choices lead to his death. He made his choices, and he paid the price for those choices. It took almost 10 years...but we got him."

I pray for the families of those who were lost on that day. I pray for the soldiers, at home and deployed. And I pray that this war will come to an end soon.