Two weeks old

Our baby girl is already 2 weeks old. While at times that seems to have gone by so quickly, there are also times where it seems like twice as long!

I will not sugar-coat this but will just come right out and say this has been HARD! I love that little girl with all my being but it has been quite an adjustment for me. I will be the first to admit that this has not come to me as naturally as I thought it would. While I was pregnant, so many people tried to warn me about the sleep deprivation. I tried to imagine what that would be like and prepare myself but there is not preparing for that. Handling one night of sleep deprivation is one thing, but several in a row takes its toll on a person.



I guess I have had some "baby blues". The first few days after being home I couldn't make it through a meal without crying. I would just start crying for no reason. Or I would look at that perfect little person that we created and just start bawling from the overwhelming emotions I felt just looking at her. I have gotten better with the crying. Now, when I cry I usually have a reason and it's usually frustration.



I have been having lots of doubts about my abilities as a mother. She is such a sweet, undemanding little sweetie pie and I sometimes still feel like I can't make her happy at times. I find myself thinking that I can't wait until she can walk and talk. I know that one day I will regret wishing her infancy away. So, I try to stop myself when I feel that way. I've been feeling a lot of guilt lately and trying to stop those feelings as well.



Breastfeeding was very hard at first. She latched on very well and all the nurses at the hospital told me how "lucky" I was for it to be going so well. I soldiered through the sore nipples but seriously considered giving it up many times. Clay and I bought a breast pump last weekend so that I could start pumping and he could help with the feedings. She has taken a bottle a couple of times but didn't seem to enthused about it this morning. Then, I start to worry that I will never been able to leave her with anyone and I will be confined to this house forever! It's been two weeks and the time I've spend at this computer this morning is the only alone time I've had so far. I never realized how much I needed my "me time" before.



Please don't get me wrong, I love Mia very much but this is a huge adjustment. I am so happy that I have Clay here to help me through this. He has truly been wonderful and I love him even more for it. He is such a wonderful father and is so involved in Mia. He jumps at any opportunity to help me out, to hold her, and to even change her diapers!

I have been telling myself this morning that she is just 2 weeks old and we won't always be in this "adjustment" period. She will eventually take a bottle and Clay and I will eventually get some time to ourselves again. I do miss that. I miss little things like sitting on the couch with just him and his arm around me. Speaking of which, I am wasting valuable time with him by being on this computer. Enjoy the pictures and I will update again soon...hopefully. :)

Welcome to the world, Mia!

Born July 28, 2006 at 8:43am weighing 7 pounds 13 ounces and measuring 19 1/4 inches long.

Well, after 9 months of a great pregnancy and quite the unexpected labor and delivery, Miss Mia is finally here with us and we could not be happier. She is truly a little joy and we love her more than anything in the world. I really don't think either one of us expected to feel SO much love. I could sort of imagine what it was going to be like because I loved her for 9 months before she was even born. It's just so hard to describe.



Clay and I are still surprised that she was born on her due date. I think that only happens in about 5% of births. My water broke Friday morning at 12:45 after I had been having mild, but steady, contractions for an hour or so. I wasn't even completely sure it was my water when it happened. The contractions started to get a tad stronger and we started timing them for about an hour and then called the doctor. As I was on the phone with him, I could feel more "water" gushing out and had no doubts then what it was. We packed up everything we needed and headed to the hospital.



We arrived about 3:00am and got settled into a delivery room. We got hooked up to a fetal heartbeat monitor and another monitor for the contractions, neither of which I could really get to stay in place after a while. The contractions were uncomfortable but I managed to breath through them okay. Then the doctor didn't feel like I was making any progress with dilation so they started a little pitocin. I didn't want it and I found out it was for a good reason. That stuff is truly the devil. It made the contractions come on faster and harder and more frequent. I got to the point that I couldn't breath through them even with 3 people reminding me to breath. It was rough.



The doctor was going to insert an internal monitor to monitor the contractions but he discovered that what he was feeling on the baby wasn't "hard" like a head should be but "soft" like a butt would be. They pulled in a ultrasound machine. I learned later that they actually had 2 machines in there before they found one that worked properly. I was in that much pain that I didn't even notice. They discovered our little sweet pea was breach. I think we were both a little shocked by that at first. We also feel like my contractions would have been more manageable and the dilation would have occurred properly had she not been breach. It just would have been nice had they done the ultrasound before giving me the pitocin. It seems like I went through a lot of unnecessary pain.



After discussing the options, it seemed that a C-section was the best way to go for me and Mia. It all happened so fast that I didn't even have a chance to really be scared about it. Clay called our parents to let them know and to get into scrubs while they wheeled me off to the OR for preparation. Yes, I was still going through those God-awful contractions while being wheeled down the hall and prepped. I received a spinal block and it was almost instant and the difference was just amazing. Clay came in and they began.



We couldn't really see what was going on but Clay could tell my body was being pulled and tugged at in all sorts of directions. I couldn't even tell they'd made an incision yet and they'd already begun. Minutes later, we could hear Dr. E say, "Happy Birthday, Mia!" Clay stood up to take a look at her and Dr. E held her up over the curtain so I could get a quick glimpse. It was quick, too. With her first cry, I was crying. It was the most beautiful sound in the world and I instantly thought was a sweet little cry it was.



Clay went over to the side of the room while they cleaned her up and I just laid there crying at her sounds and could not wait to see her. After what seemed like forever, Clay brought her over and I got the very first kiss that I had been waiting for months to get. She was so sweet and I think she instantly recognized my voice. It was quite an emotional and happy experience. I still look at her or a picture from that day and the water works are instantly on. She's completely perfect and we love her so much.



After getting all stitched up, I was wheeled to recovery while she was taken to the nursery with Clay to get a more thorough check up. I tried to rest but all I could think about was seeing her again and holding her. Clay came in with her and a lactation nurse and we tried nursing. She latched right on and has been such a good little eater ever since.



We were discharged on Monday and we've been adjusting pretty well to being home. I think Mia likes it here pretty well. She spends a lot of time just eating and sleeping right now but we are enjoying every minute of her. We are getting ready to take her to her doctor's check up today so I must go and get back to my daughter. Wow, it sounds so cool to say that, "my daughter".

Update on the pediatrician appointment: Her weight is already up to 8 pounds 1 ounce and she is doing great! :)

On the way to the hospital.....

Full report to follow. :)

Chirp, chirp, chirp

I realize today is not even her due date but I was really beginning to think something was going to happen. I suppose it still could, too. I had this overwhelming urge to tidy up the house this morning. I vacuumed, did some light dusting, swept, washed what little laundry there was, changed the sheets on the bed, picked up the dry cleaning and my vitamins, etc. I even packed a bag for Clay to have at the hospital.

Mia was very quiet this morning and even slept through breakfast. I had a few cramps and thought my water might break every time I got up to walk somewhere. Clay got very excited thinking we might be spending the night at the hospital and now I am sitting here wondering if anything will happen at all, like maybe I jinxed it or something.

I have always had such good instincts and I just can't seem to get this one at all. Maybe that is a sign for me that children really are full of surprises and I had better learn to take things as they come.

I could really use another nap and I just got up from one! A sign? :)

Pics at 39 Weeks and 4 Days

No more progress so far. Had a few cramps last night but nothing like the night before. Mia has been very quiet and still this morning and GranE says that is a good sign. :) I have decided to try to not think about it at all today and just get some rest and work on some projects around the house. Maybe that will help.

Clay took these at the park the other night.

You can't really tell in this picture but apparently my belly button is not going to "pop" like a turkey timer. It's still hanging on!


This was taken during one of those contractions. Can you tell?

A real contraction

After dinner last night, Clay and I drove to a nearby park to take some late pregnancy photos. We had just started walking when my belly tightened up and it actually HURT. It stopped me dead in my tracks and I definitely had never felt that before. That same thing happened one other time while we were there and for the rest of the night it was just menstrual-type cramps with some lower backache. I was getting them so frequently that Clay started taking note of them and they were about 10 minutes apart.

We watched a movie, ate some raspberry sherbert, and then went to bed. I continued to have them throughout the night and they were gone by the time I got out of bed this morning to get ready for work. I was having the gas-like pains which according to a website I found this morning is also a form of contraction. It was reassuring to read that. I've had the belly tightening and the cramping off and on a few times today but nothing at all like last night.

She has to be coming out soon!!!!! Please.

Nursery pics.....finally!

While we are waiting on Miss Mia's arrival, I thought I would post some pics of the nursery. Enjoy!

View from the door.


Crib with the beautiful bedding that Auntie Kim made for Mia.


Crib and comfy glider.


Crib and mobile.

Week 39

It's hard to believe we are SO close now. The doctor's appointment this morning went well. We met Dr. S and liked him very much. He said my weight was good. I just KNEW I was getting a lecture on that because my swelling has been even worse this week. Blood pressure was good, as usual. He checked my cervix and I really thought he was going to tell me that I had dilated more and blah, blah. I knew all the new feelings I was having this week would mean something and they did, just no progress on dilating. I am still only a fingertip dilated (about 1 cm), but my cervix is now 70% effaced. He said she was still pretty high up there. She's comfy. :)

I need to start taking everyone's advice and not put much into what my cervix is doing. Even the doctor said labor could happen at anytime regardless of what my cervix is doing. We talked about induction again if I have not delivered or gone into labor by next Friday, the due date. After talking about it this morning, I do feel a little more at ease about being induced if needed. Dr. S said my pregnancy has been "textbook" and problem-free that he would hate to see it turn into a high-risk because I was past term. I guess with age and all going overdue would increase the risk for c-section and meconium discharge, etc. If we have to be induced, we are going to try to insist on July 31st so she can still be a July baby. :)

Still feeling great and trying to stay cool!

Not today...

July 20th has been sticking in my head for a while now and I really thought maybe today would be Mia's birth day. It doesn't appear that will happen. I am still having the mild menstrual-type cramps, a little bit of lower back pain and some odd sensations in the area of my cervix, the usual pelvic pressure, and belly tightening. I still have not lost my mucous plug, as far as I know. I'm not really sure that means much anyway.

I stayed home today to work instead of going into the office. My boss was nice enough to agree to that. I've gotten a lot done so far and I am finally to the point that I feel ready for maternity leave to start. Tomorrow morning at 9:30 is the 39 week appointment. Dr. E will not be there so we will be seeing Dr. S and meeting him for the first time. I hope that he checks my cervix and tells me that all sorts of progress has been made. I would like to think I am experiences all these "feelings" for something.

Going to get my hair cut this evening. Can't wait! My bag for the hospital is pretty much packed. I need to put a few last minute items in there but otherwise, I'm ready. I am thinking about going to buy a birthing ball after the hair cut appointment. I really think it will come in handy for when labor finally gets here. :)

That is all for now! Will update again in the morning.

A move in the right direction?

I didn't sleep so well last night. Lots of pee breaks, pressure in the pelvic area, mild menstrual type cramps and I think actual contractions. They weren't painful but they were uncomfortable. Although, they were gone by the time I woke up this morning. Miss Mia spent a good portion of the night making weird movements. I call them weird because I couldn't quite figure out what she was doing or moving. She's been doing a bit of the same this morning.

I'm working in the office today but I'm not sure if I will make it through the whole day. I am VERY tired and someone as already mentioned that I look tired and my face is chubby. Rude, I know. I'm cranky from being tired anyway, but hurt my feelings, intentionally or not, and I'm going to want to cry. Just trying to hang in there!

Whoa! Check out that belly!

Clay took these last night. 38 weeks and 3 days. I keep getting the feeling that my prediction for a birth this Thursday will not be happening. Miss Mia has her own agenda. She was very active last night and Clay kept joking that maybe she was packing up to leave. Just a wait and see game now.




Can you tell she's dropped a little?

No make up!

Week 38

No new progress to report. Dr. E says my cervix is about the same as last week. He didn't mention that she's dropped anymore either. If she has it isn't that noticeable to me although I have been feeling more pressure in the pelvic area. Apparently, my weight increased since last week, but I'm still not looking so I don't know if that means 1 pound or 20. He feels that it's from the swelling and fluid retention. It's certainly understandable. It has been much hotter this week and my swelling was worse yesterday. I am even getting it in my fingers and I just feel a more bloated, so to speak.

I'm still feeling pretty good. I have been more tired this week but sleeping well. Maybe my body is trying to tell me I need to get MORE sleep and store it up for the upcoming labor. Dr. E gave me orders to take it easy this weekend and drink lots of fluids. I think I am going to actually listen to him this time. :)

He also mentioned that if I made it to my 40 week appointment that we would start to talk induction for the following week. I am really hoping I don't make it to my due date at all now. I want my baby girl to stay in there as long as she needs to but I'm now hoping that she will be ready soon and come on out. I am just against the idea of induction and will try to be as nice as possible about it. I think starting to talk about scheduling an induction a few days after my due date is ridiculous to me. I'd be more inclined to start talking about it a week after my due date, maybe. I'm going to try not to worry about it right now and get upset for nothing. I'll wait until I actually have a reason, too.

We are going to meet Mrs. C tomorrow. She is the lady that we are hoping will be watching Mia when I return to work. She sounds great and I really hope we all hit it off and I get great "vibes" about her, her husband, and her home. Will update again soon!

New pics

Taken at 37 weeks, 2 days...



If you look closely, I am bending backwards in this picture and the lump in the center of my belly is Mia. :)

Forgot to mention...

Apparently, the "preggo" brain only gets worse as the pregnancy progresses. :)

In addition to the small change in my cervix, I have been noticing something different in my hips as well. When I'm changing sleeping positions, my hips and pubic bone have started "popping". It doesn't hurt or anything but did surprise me the first couple of times it happened. I guess that's been happening for a week or so now. Doctor says my joints are starting to relax and my hips are preparing to spread for birth. Yippee! I had a dream last night that I was having contractions that were actually painful. My belly only keeps getting bigger which also means that Mia is living in cramped quarters these days. She has been so active this past week and I am enjoying the little bit of time I have left. I think she lays in a "L" shape most of the time and keeps her little feet planted on my right side. When I have my arm resting there she starts wiggling her feet as if to protest. I can't wait to tickle those little feet!

Week 37

Another week gone and boy did it fly by! I'll get straight to the good stuff and update about the doctor's appointment this morning. We are both doing great. After much distressing over my weight the last week and last night, the verdict wasn't so bad after all. The doctor didn't lecture me and I actually got a "great job on the weight" response. I'm sure next week, I'll get a lecture...that seems to be the pattern these days. LOL! I only gained 0.3 pounds. WOOHOO! It really shocked me to hear that. I was just noticing last night that my face looks chubbier and with the 4th of July holiday this week I was a bit worried.

Mia is still head down and the doctor says she's dropped some into the pelvis. I think I even notice that today because I feel like I have a little bit of a waddle going on when I walk. I asked the doctor how much he thought she would weigh at birth. After feeling around he said she was just under 6 pounds right now and was guesstimating an "average" weight of about 7.5 pounds at birth. Phew. I just knew she was going to be over 8 pounds like her mommy. Her heartbeat was a strong 154. My cervix is softening and I'm about a fingertip dilated. That translates to about 1/2 cm, maybe 1 cm. Dr. E seemed to lean more toward the 1/2 cm measurement. No predictions from him on when he things she'll make an appearance. Lately, I have had July 20th stuck in my head but no one really knows except Mia!

My next appointment is scheduled for next Friday morning. We are headed to Chang's this weekend for one last trip before Mia. Since it has been about 2 weeks since we've taken belly pictures, we are planning that for the weekend too. Maybe I can get them posted by Sunday. Also, in the works for this weekend is another trip to the movies. We went to see the DaVinci Code last Monday and are planning to see Pirates of the Caribbean this weekend. JP keeps reminding me to go to the movies as much as possible before Mia gets here because after she arrives, I can forget seeing a movie all the way through in one sitting for a while! Hee hee.

Week 36

As you can see from the last pictures posted my belly is really growing! There are about 4 weeks left, give or take, and I know she is only going to grow more! I am really ready to meet her but I am fine with her staying in there a bit longer to fatten up. I'm also beginning to realize just how little time there is left to feel her moving around inside me. Pretty soon I will have to share her with the rest of the world. She's been very active this week and I've been enjoying the heck out of it. I'm starting to experience the indigestion and heartburn again, still swelling, and still have the pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel, but it's all tolerable. Secretly, I am really looking foward to my ankles and feet not swelling anymore and actually being able to feel the fingertips on my right hand!

I had a doctor's appointment this past Wednesday. He did a cervix check and it is still closed tight and unchanged. Oh well. I guess Miss Mia is very content with her little home right now. She's giving mommy and daddy a little more time to get ready for her. As soon as we finish a task, I still feel like there are a million more left to do. I really need to make an actual list instead of keeping it in my head. It probably won't seem so overwhelming if I put it in writing.

I've had to spend a couple of mornings at home this week getting the computer set up for remote access to work at home. My new work schedule begins on Monday and I am so looking forward to working in my pjs two days a week. It will make things much easier on me during this last month of pregnancy.

Until next time....

Week 35

Whoa! Check out that belly! It's something else, huh? I don't realize how big it's getting until I see a picture. Clay took these last night so these are the official week 35 pics. We are doing just great. Can't complain too much, anyway. Actually, I can, but it's gets boring after awhile. Just ask Clay! LOL!

I was having some trouble with heartburn for a little while, but I haven't had any for the past 3 days. Woohoo! I don't know if that means she is starting to move down a little bit or what. She still stills pretty high to me and I still get little feet in my ribs. All in all, I'm feeling pretty good.

I still do not have pictures of the nursery to post, but I will try again this weekend. Everything just seems to be falling into place. We met with a pediatrician yesterday and we both liked her a lot so that is pretty much settled and something to scratch off the to-do list. Clay spoke with the lady that we wanted to keep Mia when I return to work and she has decided she wants to give that a try. We've had our breastfeeding class and our childbirthing class. We still need to figure out how to operate the car seat so we can actually bring Miss Mia home from the hospital. We've also been inventorying everything we've received from the showers and figuring out what we still need. Luckily, we have a huge gift card from Babies R Us to help us out.

I think that is all I have to report at the moment. I will work on those nursery pictures this weekend....promise. :)

Week 34

Happy 34th Week! We had an appointment this morning with the doctor and we are doing just great. Our next appointment is June 28th and after that we will have appointments every week. We are getting so close! I would really love to deliver a week or two early and the doctor is fine with that as long as I am at least 37 weeks along. It's very likely, but I really don't want to go into August. I am ready to meet our little sweet pea.

Clay surprised me again last night and brought the changing table home with the pad and cover. He's really good about keeping those secrets and surprising me with them at just the right time. ;-) He unpacked it and it looks great in her room. I am going to try to get some pictures this weekend to post. We have been taking inventory on all the things we received at the showers and trying to figure out what we still need. It's been so much fun! All we need now is the little munchkin!

Our second baby shower

We had such a wonderful time! The shower was held in the evening, outside by Papa's pool. Yes, it was really hot and I wanted to jump into that pool on more than one occasion but only ended up with my swollen feet dangling in at the end of the night.


Actually, once the sun went down completely, it cooled off and we were left with a nice breeze. The guest turn-out was more than I was expecting and the amount of gifts were also way more than I was expecting.


Mia received some really cute clothes, accessories for her room, frilly girlie accessories, the dresser/changing table that matches her furniture, the stroller/car seat travel system, a swing that vibrates, some Gamecock items including her first Cocky doll, rain boots, a tiny bathing suit and cover up for next summer, the beautiful crib bedding courtesy of her Auntie Kim and tons of other stuff I know I am forgetting.


The food tables were amazing and the cake, delicious and one of my favorite parts.

The adult beverages looked tasty although I did not partake in those.



The pictures shown here are the only ones I have so far that turned out good. It was a beautiful shower and everyone was so sweet and generous.

Week 33

It's almost hard to fathom that I only have approximately 7 weeks left. There have been times, and still are, where Mia's arrival seemed a lifetime away. Then there are moments like this where I wonder where the time has gone. WEEK 33! Just hard to imagine for me.

She is probably weighing a little over 4 pounds right now and could possibly measure anywhere from 17-18 inches. My baby girl is really growing. My belly button is hanging in there but it's just about gone. Funny thing about that, too. I discovered I have a tiny freckle inside my belly button. How that happened, I will never know, but I thought it was interesting. I can tell the space in there is getting cramped for her because her movements feel as if she is quite crowded. I get some serious nudges and bumps throughout the day and she's been really active this week. I realized last night that I don't have much longer to enjoy that movement.

Her room is a mess right now. There is luggage in the middle of the floor from our Hilton Head trip that I have not put up yet. Her crib is still full of the items she received at the shower last month. Clay surprised me the other night and brought home the armoire for her room. Yes, it's BIG! Hopefully, we'll figure out a way to arrange the room very soon. I'll probably start washing all of her clothes and blankets and such on Sunday and start putting them away in her new drawers. I'm just so ready for her room to be complete. I'm ready for everything to be just perfect for her arrival.

We have our childbirth class tomorrow and we are super excited about that. A tour of the labor and delivery floor is included. The hospital just remodeled that floor a couple of years ago and it's really nice. I've already seen it. :)

Tomorrow night is our second shower and as you might have guessed, we're excited about that, too! My good friend from Charlotte cannot make it but she sent a present which arrived yesterday. I was so excited that I could not even wait for Clay to get home. It was a box full of tiny bottles, pacifers, teething toys, crib toys, a book of nursery rhymes, a little pink dress with bloomers, a receiving blanket, a bib and burp cloth, and a memory book. There was SO much, I'm pretty sure I've forgotten to list some of it. It was so sweet and I cried. I will cry for just about any reasons these days! The generosity from everyone during this pregnancy has been overwhelming and yes, that makes me emotional.

And, Monday we have a breast-feeding class. I have these fairy-tale visions of Mia just latching on and things going perfectly but you just never know. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that BF works for us.

The next doctor's appointment is next Friday, the 16th. I think he'll probably check my cervix again and tell me "it's still nice and closed like it's supposed to be." ;-)

The babymoon

Ahhh, the ocean. Is there really anything better? It's so calming and powerful at the same time. We had a very relaxing extended weekend in Hilton Head. The weather was beautiful and it wasn't overly crowded. We did a little shopping, walking on the beach, splashing in the pool, and just plain sitting on our butts. One night we went for dinner at a seafood restaurant that overlooked the water and I had some delicious halibut, while Clay had Alaskian King crab legs for the first time. He was nice enough to share a bite with me and mmmmm, they were tasty! Another night we had Chinese at a little hole in the wall that we wish we had near home. They have the best chicken and broccoli. It's called the Red Dragon if you're ever in HH and want some good Chinese. The last night we had dinner at The Crazy Crab, although I like to call it the Crabby Crab because I think that sounds better. :) Sometimes, I just can't get enough fish and seafood. Can you tell I was really into eating?

We also entertained ourselves with a visit to a little discovery museum at the welcome center. My favorite part was going out back and taking some pictures with the marsh in the background. There really wasn't much to the museum at all.



Another favorite of the weekend for me was the gelato find. Found a little place on the island that served real gelato and it was so refreshing. I chose strawberry and literally could have sat there all day eating it. I can't wait until we go to Italy and have the real thing from the country it originated. Man, it's been way too long since I've been out of the country.



The last night we went to Harbourtown in Sea Pines. It's where the famous lighthouse is located. That's where we had dinner at The Crabby Crab and also drove over to the Salty Dog to listen to some music. Before dinner we walked over to the other side of the harbor to get shots of me with the lighthouse and the sunset in the background. While leaving that spot I tripped on an uneven spot in the sidewalk and if it weren't for Clay I would have landed flat on my face and my belly. My eyes welled up with tears at the slightest thought of landing on my belly. Pregnant women really do become the biggest klutzes.



What else can I say except our stay was just not long enough. Ideally, I would love to go again before Mia is born but I really don't see that happening. We are going to be pretty busy the next couple of weeks and by then I think it will be too close to the due date to be traveling away from home. It's not like the island is going anywhere and I'm sure we will make our yearly trip at least next June. And we'll have little Mia to take with us. I can just picture her splashing in the water and digging her toes in the wet sand. Now, THAT makes me smile.

Week 32

Posting this a couple of days early since we're off to Hilton Head. I've been doing very well. Feeling pretty good and getting lots of nice comments about how great I look. I think pregnancy really does suit me. :)

The swelling in my ankles and feet has increased over the last couple of weeks. I have been downing the water at a ridiculous rate but that doesn't seem to help too much. I think sitting at a desk all day and the heat are starting to take affect. In the last 2 weeks I have also developed carpal tunnel symptoms in my right wrist and hand. From my reading, that also appears to be due to increased fluids and swelling. Don't have much longer, though, and this little girl is so worth it. All in all, I really have not been too uncomfortable at all.

Nursery update: we went to pick up the armoire for Mia's room and it was not in stock so we had to order it. Delivery is supposed to take 7 to 10 days. We did find a nice glider on sale and GranE bought that for Mia's room. We were able to take something home with us, at least. It looks really nice sitting by the window. I'll get a picture posted when I get a chance. Still need to purchase the changing table/dresser, get a few decorative items and the bedding and we should be all set. It's all coming together nicely.

I think that's about it. If there is anything significant to report from the doctor's appointment today and I have time before we leave I'll post about it. Otherwise, have a spectacular rest of the week and weekend!

Week 31

Another week down. Not too much to report. Miss Mia has been moving around a good bit but compared to her usual activity, she's been fairly quiet. I think she's getting ready to go through another growth spurt. My little munchkin is getting so big. She should be about 16 inches long now and weigh a little more than 3 pounds. I can actually tell that she is head down right now. I discovered the other morning, after my shower, that I can tell exactly where she is by leaning backwards. I can see the outline of her tiny little body and narrow butt. It just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. :)

My next doctor's appointment is next Wednesday and afterwards we are headed to Hilton Head! Ahhh.....we are really looking forward to this trip. The following weekend we have our childbirth class and our second shower. The next two weeks are going to be full of excitement! Come to think of it, I think my entire life will be full of excitement from now on. ;)

Have a great weekend!

Our first baby shower

Our first baby shower was great and so much more than we both expected! The generosity of my co-workers, friends, and our family was just overwhelming. Mia got a lot of beautiful clothes that she is going to look absolutely adorable in and many other nice items that she will need such as a stroller, tub, bath accessories, toys & books, blankets, gift cards. There was SO much! I'm looking forward to going through everything again.



Mommy got a very special gift as well from GranE. A beautiful charm bracelet with a little girl charm and a heart charm with Mia's name and birth year engraved on it. She is such a special little girl and is going to be very loved. She already is VERY loved. :)



Update on the doctors appointment this morning: My cervix is not effaced or dilated which is exactly how it's supposed to be, apparently. I do have 10 weeks left. I guess it is kinda early to be expecting any changes yet. :) Also, I did not look at the scale but when the doc got to that part he said, "You're doing great on your weight. Keep it up." I told him I was no longer looking at the scale and to please not tell me. He just laughed and said I was doing great. Great!

Here are some pics from the shower. I did not have my camera set correctly so the pics from my camera didn't turn out so well except for the bracelet picture. The pics posted of the shower are courtesy of Papa.

Week 30

Only 10 weeks left. 70 days until her due date. I'm getting more and more anxious to meet her. She's gone through another growth spurt and is getting big. She probably weighs about 3 pounds right now. My belly button is just about non-existant. I'm guessing it will completely "pop" in the next two weeks.

I have a doctor's appointment at 11:30 this morning and he is going to check my cervix. I'm excited about hearing "you're 50% effaced" or something that I really won't understand but I'll know it's something that is bringing me that much closer to labor. I will not be posting any updates about weight because I have decided that I will no longer be looking at the numbers on the scale. Since I am curious about the difference in weight before and after birth, I plan to weigh myself at home right before I leave for the hospital. Then, a few days after I'm home, I'm going to weigh myself again. I don't know why that interests me so much but it does.

Our first shower is at noon today. I am so excited. Clay is coming to it and so are most of the grandparents. Mia got an early gift yesterday because the lady is going out of town today and can't make the shower. She gave Mia 3 cute little summer outfits. One with a matching headband, another with ruffles and a matching hat, and the third in a pretty yellow and blue. We have a busy day ahead of us!

The weekend was nice and relaxing but it sure flew by entirely too fast. Clay and I took advantage of the weather on Saturday and went to a USC baseball game. Afterwards, we went to a shop to use a gift certificate we'd received as a wedding gift; stopped by Ben & Jerry's for some turtle soup; got to the farmer's market a little too late and instead of buying fruits and veggies we bought two plants for the back yard.

Sunday was nice. The weather was stormy off and on all day. We got hail at our house during two different boughts. It was odd looking out the window and finding a yard full of little balls of ice. We had a nice lunch at Wild Wings. Clay gave me a beautiful silver rocking horse charm and a card he made just for me. It was the sweetest card about how I am going to be a perfect mommy and Mia is going to be the most loved child in the whole world. I certainly can't argue with that last part.

Mommy's Day

I got my very first mommy's day card in the mail yesterday. It was from my very good friend, Donna, who lives in Charlotte and who I miss very much. It was the sweetest mom-to-be card about peanut butter kisses and pudgey fingers and naps in the lap. Wow, I can't believe I'm going to be someone's mommy soon. :)

Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful mothers out there.

Week 29

Here we are beginning a new pregnancy week. There are days that I can't believe I am so far along and then other days where 9 months seems like an eternity. Mia is so active and she has a daily routine of it. She makes me laugh a lot with her antics: dancing on my bladder, tapping her little foot (at least, that's what it feels like), making my whole belly shake. I got a foot in the ribs for the first time a few nights ago. She still gets balled up in her spot on the left side although she's growing so much it's not quite as noticeable as before. We really need to try to get a picture before it's completely impossible. I was also feeling around my belly the other morning and think I felt a tiny foot. It's still hard for me to tell what's what, so I'm just going to imagine that's what I was feeling. :)

I am so excited about her upcoming arrival. The nursery is all painted. Clay surprised me the other day and brought home the crib, mattress, and crib pads that Papa bought for Mia. I was going to post a picture of the crib after Clay put it together, but I decided to wait until the bedding is ready. Our first shower is next Friday and we have another one in June. Most of all, I am very anxious to hold her and kiss her. I can't wait to smell her baby smell.

Here is what babycenter.com has to say about her progress for this new week:

Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Her muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and her head is growing bigger to accommodate her brain — which is busy developing billions of neurons. With this rapid growth, it's no surprise that your baby's nutritional needs reach their peak during this trimester. To keep yourself and her well nourished, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamin C, folic acid, iron, and calcium. (About 200 milligrams of calcium is deposited in your baby's skeleton — which is now hardening — every day.)

I have been trying to get more protein and dairy in the last week. I've found that eating more protein is helping me feel full longer and I've noticed my snacking has reduced. After my appointment last Friday and the issue of weight, I think I am okay with it again. I get complimented a lot on how great I look while pregnant and I really should start to listen to that instead of letting it go in one ear and out the other. My clothes fit and I'm healthy so I really shouldn't be upset about the weight gain at all. I will have plenty of opportunity to get it off after she is here so I'm just not going to worry about it anymore and stop telling myself I'm fat. I love Clay's response to this when I say "I'm fat". He gets this very serious look on his face and tells me, "You are NOT fat! You are pregnant, baby." Then he gets this huge smile on his face as if the fact that I'm really going to have a baby becomes more of a reality. I couldn't ask for a better person to be married too. I firmly believe that this is the first time in my entire life that I can truly say I am completely happy.

Nursery - Step 1: Painting

Complete!

Week 28

We are officially in the third trimester! I had a doctor's appointment this morning. Mia was active, kicking the heartbeat monitor, and her heartbeat was a strong 152. I have gained a whopping 41 pounds so far and Dr. E said I needed to "watch the weight". I won't harp too much on that because I've been having to force myself all morning not to cry about it so that's all I have to say about that. Apparently, one person can eat too much fruit.

We got a lot of our questions answered today. I was happy to learn that they do not routinely do inductions or episiotomies; only if absolutely necessary. They definitely will not do another routine ultrasound unless there is a problem. If we wanted them to do one that wasn't medically necessary, insurance wouldn't pay for it and it would cost us around $300-$500. But he has no objections to the 4-D ultrasound which don't seem to cost as much as the regular...if we decide to do one. My blood pressure was good. Our appointments will now be every two weeks until 36 weeks. Then it will be once a week. Next appointment is May 19th at 11:30, right before our first shower. I am so excited about that baby shower.

Week 27

It is hard for me to fathom sometimes that at the end of this week I will officially be in the third trimester. That will mean only 3 more months until my little princess gets here. In approximately 91 days, I will be a mommy. Can I just say, WHOA!?

The recent growth spurt is making for cramped quarters in there for her. I can feel how she is taking up more room in my uterus with less wiggle room than before. It feels like she is even trying out new positions because I felt her up around my belly button several times yesterday. She has been so active since her little growth spurt. There are times that my entire belly just shakes. The little munchkin still prefers her usually spot for nightime, though - all balled up on the left side, which still makes me laugh everytime I see my wopped-sided belly. Yes, in addition to new belly shots, we still have not managed a pic of the wopped-sided belly either.

Things just seem busy lately. Last weekend, we traveled to Charlotte so me and Auntie Kim could shop for fabric for Mia's bedding. We were so successful at a place in Gastonia called Mary Jo's. The store is absolutely amazing and the women that work in there impressed me to no end with their mathematical skills WITHOUT a calculator or pen and paper! Clay started painting the nursery. He had a new plan for the paint scheme so there is one wall left to paint which he is going to finish this weekend. Once that it complete, we'll try to post a picture or two. It will just be a picture of an empty room with 3 pink walls and one mocha colored wall. Papa is buying the crib and that has not been ordered yet, nor has any of the other furniture that's going in there. Boy, we have a lot to do!

Here's what babycenter.com has to say about her progress for week 27:

How your baby's growing: Your baby is really starting to fill up your uterus. This week she weighs almost 2 pounds and is about 14.4 inches long with her legs extended. She can now open and close her eyes, and she sleeps and wakes at regular intervals. She may suck her fingers, and although her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with assistance — if she were to be born prematurely. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and isn't bothersome to her, so enjoy the tickle. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. Wonder what she's thinking?

I know exactly what she's thinking - I can't wait to meet my mommy and daddy. :)

Sweet dreams

I had the sweetest dream last night about Mia. I was sleeping in my bed and woke up and part of my belly was uncovered from the sheet. My skin was almost transluscent and I could see her little hand balled up into a fist and pressing up against my belly like she was trying to get out. I could clearly see each tiny, precious finger. I pulled the sheet back to see my whole belly and there she was. I could see her entire body and her little noggin and her beautiful face. She had the sweetest eyes. It was so real, too. Three more months is just too long to wait sometimes!

Week 26

I have been rather cranky today and I'm not entirely sure why. Mia has been super active today and that makes me smile. She always makes me smile. I was driving back to work from lunch and she was hitting me in a spot that tickled and I just laughed. She's so sweet and loves her mommy and knows just what to do to help my mood. :)

Here progress so far, although I don't think much has changed except she's steadily growing bigger and stronger:

Your baby now weighs a little under 2 pounds and measures about 14 inches, from head to heel. The nerve pathways in her ears are developing, which means her response to sounds is growing more consistent. Her lungs are developing now, too, as she continues to take small breaths of amniotic fluid — good practice for when she's born and takes that first breath of air.

Since I still don't have any new belly pics to post, here is a diagram (courtesy of www.babycenter.com) of what she probably looks like right now.

Double digits!

As of today, there are 99 days until her due date. 99 DAYS!!!!!! It could be a little more and could be even less, really depends on her. I am getting so excited about how close it's getting. I think Mia recently went through a little growth spurt. Someone commented the other day on how she's "growing". Plus, my belly has really been itchy the last couple of days and up until now that really hasn't been an issue for me. Bring on the lotion!

We bought the paint for her room and hopefully we will get to start on that this Sunday. Our goal was to have the room painted by May so only a couple of weeks left. We decided to do the walls in all pink and the trim in a mocha brown. Then, we'll just need to put some furniture in there. It's going to look so pretty!

We don't have another doctor's appointment until May 5th. After that appointment we will start going every 2 weeks. It's all just so real now. :)

Week 25

Time is still flying by! Only 105 days until her due date. I think C and I are going to get the furniture moved out of the nursery this weekend and possibly even start painting. I'm getting very excited about getting her room all set up. Next weekend, we are headed to Charlotte to go fabric shopping for the bedding for her room.

Here's her development for this week:

Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight — a pound and a half — doesn't sound like much, but she's beginning to exchange her long, lean look for some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she'll start to look more and more like a newborn. Her hair is probably recognizable now (in color and texture), although both may change after she's born.

I think C is going to take some more belly pictures this weekend so I should be posting some of those soon. Have a great weekend!

News flash....

Today has been nothing but great news. I proposed a new work schedule to my boss and she was in total agreement with it. I am so psyched! I tried to figure out a way to go part-time and I just couldn't find a way to make that work at all. So, I proposed to my boss that I cut my work week from 40 hours to 36 hours. I will work in the office Wednesdays and Thursdays and half a day Friday. That works out to 20 hours total in the office. I will work the other 16 hours at home where I get to spend more time with my little sweet pea and still keep my full time status. I think it's going to work out very well and I am so completely happy about it.

Mia must be able to sense that happiness because she has been one active little booger this afternoon. If I didn't know any better I would swear she was practicing karate moves in there. She was all over the place and the movement was so strong. I just love her so much and I really cannot wait to meet her!

The other night, I laid down for bed and was going to do my nightly "feel" for her. I can feel her and see where she is best when I'm laying down in the bed. Well, I pulled up my shirt and there was this big lump on the left side of my belly. She was all balled up on one side and I couldn't help but laugh. She is definitely partial to the left side of my belly. I'm going to have to try to see if I can get a good picture of it because it's the funniest thing.

Also, my glucose test results came back just fine. I was a little worried because of all the fruit I have been eating lately. Makes me wonder if it's possible for one person to eat too much fruit. :)

Ahhh, vacation.

Woohoo! We are having a 4-day weekend in June and heading to the condo in Hilton Head. I can't wait! They have some great outlet stores we are going to check out for baby stuff, too. Yay! C is going to take some maternity pictures of me on the beach. Some in color and some in black and white. I've been seeing some great maternity pictures on the internet in black and white and I just love the way they look. I know he will be able to take some great ones as well. Talking about this makes me think about taking little Mia to HH for the very first time and seeing her on the beach, absolutely COVERED in sunscreen, and splashing in the water. She's gonna be so cute!

Week 24

Another week gone by. This is also the first week of the 6th month. We had a doctor's appointment this morning. My belly is measuring exactly 24 weeks and the doctor called her "smart" - as if we didn't already know that! My weight was about the same as last month. There may have been a 1/2 pound difference, but not a significant jump or drop which is good. Mia's heart rate was between 135 and 140. The doc found it right away and it was loud and fast. She's growing and getting bigger and closer to the surface now so I guess that makes it easier to find. She should be weighing just over a pound now and is about a foot long. Also, according to babycenter.com, her skin is thin, translucent, and wrinkled, her brain is growing rapidly, and her taste buds are developing. Her lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" and cells that produce surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs inflate easily.

I also had the glucose screening test. I had to drink some orange liquid they gave me which tasted rather good. Then they drew some blood an hour later. I should get the result from that on Monday. It is to check for gestational diabetes. I have a feeling the test will come back normal.

We were disappointed to learn that they are not planning anymore ultrasounds. We were really hoping to at least get to see her once more before she's born. They don't usually plan another ultrasound after the 18 week one unless there is a problem, which we definitely don't want. I can so see why bozo Tom Cruise bought Katie Holmes her own ultrasound machine. If I had one, I'd be looking at her everyday! We're thinking about doing the 4D ultrasound. I'm going to look into whether or not there is a place in town that does 4D ultrasounds and see how much they are. I've heard a lot of talk about them and people getting them done. You're supposed to be able to see more features of the face and can get a better idea of what the baby looks like. I always thought they were a waste of money and wanted to wait to see her when she's born, but I dunno. We've been working so hard trying to save much and work things out so I can maybe just work part time and spend more time at home with Mia. I'd love to be able to not work at all but right now that just doesn't seem possible so I'll take what I can get!

First baseball game

I am carrying around one active little girl or she just really likes baseball. We went to a USC baseball game last night. She was so active that I could no longer concentrate on anything but her movement. I just wanted to unzip my jacket and just stare at my belly. I couldn't believe it. Usually, she gets active early in the evening and when I eat dinner. Then she'll settle down a little bit and then gets comfy for bed and that's it. She was non-stop last night. I just loved it.

I noticed a little swelling in me for the first time on Monday in my fingers and then again yesterday I could see a big difference around my ankles. I was really hoping to avoid any swelling at all. So, no coffee at all this morning and it's been replaced with water. I really am wanting a cup too...just for the taste. Also, going to try to watch the salt intake. Maybe that will help.

I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow for week 24 checkup and a glucose test. Woohoo!

Week 23

With each passing week I am even more astonished how fast the time seems to be going. Then I realize I still have until the end of July and it seems so far away. I say that every week, don't I? :)

Her progress this week:

Baby is more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound. Her skin is red and wrinkled. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare her for breathing. Loud noises heard often in utero — such as your dog barking or the roar of a vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze baby when she hears them outside the womb.

I have started to notice her awake times this week. She usually starts stirring around at 8:30 in the morning. Then again before and after lunch. Another session late in the afternoon and definitely during dinner. She likes the eating times like her mommy! :) So far, she is sleeping at night when I am sleeping. Yay!

We haven't really made any progress on the nursery. I am still searching for a fabric to use for the bedding. I just can't seem to find anything I like. C and I have a plan to get the furniture moved out of the room and have the room painted by May. Having an actual completion time as a goal is going to be more helpful for me. I'm getting really excited about getting the room painted and being able to order the crib.

Cravings and kicks

I was sitting at my desk at work on Tuesday afternoon and got an overwhelming craving for chocolate ice cream. It was the oddest thing. It wasn't odd that I craved chocolate or even chocolate ice cream but the fact that it was such a strong craving. I HAD to have it NO matter what! It was the first time I've had a craving like that so far. So, I had the chocolate ice cream that night after dinner. I was even trying to be a little good and bought Edy's slow churned and it was really pretty darn good to only have 120 calories and 4 grams of fat.

After my cup of yummy, delicious chocolate ice cream, I couldn't get the thought of another craving out of my head. Fruit has been a huge craving the last 5 months, but I've been on a banana kick this week. I swear I am getting about 3 pieces of fruit in every day. So, I've been eating a banana every day and for some reason I kept thinking about bananas and peanut butter together. Now, I've never had a banana and peanut butter sandwich in my entire life and had no idea what it tasted like, but for some reason I just had to have it. I thought about it and thought about it and finally decided to stop torturing myself and made one. It really wasn't even that good. It was like it was missing something like mayonnaise or something tangy. At least I stopped thinking about it. LOL!

In Mia news: I was typing at my computer today and she kicked me so hard, I could see my shirt move. It made me laugh. I just love her SOOOOOO much.

Week 22 Belly pics

Whoa! I don't realize how big I'm getting until I see it in a picture. :)
These were taken this past Sunday which makes me 22 weeks and 2 days.

Week 22

Week 22! 5 whole months! Can you believe it? I hardly can sometimes. Only 18 weeks to go and 126 days until her due date of July 28th. I still think she'll decide to introduce herself to us all on August 1st but we'll see. :)

She has been super active this week and I just love it. I can actually feel her moving when I'm standing up or walking now. Before I was just feeling her when I was sitting or lying flat on my back. I even felt her moving in the shower this morning. I need to get in the bathtub and see if I can hear her under water like my mommy used to do when she was pregnant with me.

I am getting so excited about meeting her. 18 weeks to go doesn't really sound like a long time but then again it seems like an eternity. Here's her development so far for this week's post:

Your baby now looks like a miniature newborn, checking in at 10.9 inches and almost 1 pound. Her skin will continue to appear wrinkled until she gains enough weight to fill it out, and the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her head and body is now visible. Her lips are becoming more distinct, and the first signs of teeth are appearing as buds beneath her gum line. Her eyes are developed, though the iris (the colored part of the eye) still lacks pigment. Eyelids and eyebrows are in place, and her pancreas, essential for hormone production, is developing steadily. Her brain is growing rapidly and will continue to grow for the next five years. Baby is about the size of a child’s Nerf football (head to rump).

Daddy is going to take some new belly pictures in the morning to post. Stay tuned!

Week 21

Here's an update on Mia's development this week:

Your baby is about 7½- 8 inches in length (crown-to-rump) and weighs close to 10½ ounces. Your baby's bones are growing harder, stronger and ossifying. Arm and leg movements will increase and become more coordinated now as the muscles strengthen. Your baby should be moving vigorously by now, with lots of amniotic fluid to provide plenty of room. Your baby is quite the little gymnast, busy with twists, turns, and forward summersaults! Baby’s sleep and wake cycle may be getting more predictable as the weeks progress. Your baby’s brain is growing at a very fast rate and the immune system is beginning to develop, as white blood cells are created.

She is moving a lot but it just never seems to be enough. :)

Go Cocks!

We went to the NIT game last night that USC played in with Papa H and RJ. It was actually the funniest and most entertaining basketball game that I've been too. Can't remember the exact score but the Gamecocks won by something like 20 points. During the timeouts the band played and Mia just seemed to love that. Everytime they started up she started moving and kicking. I guess she can hear outside noises now. She was pretty excited about the chocolate Dippin' Dots, too. :)

C cannot wait to be able to take her to football and basketball games. They are going to be so cute dressed up in their Carolina gear, off to see the Gamecocks play.

Exercise time

I think I have a little acrobat growing inside of me. Last night, while I was sleeping, Mia was so active. It didn't wake me up or anything, but I could sense it and feel it even while I was dreaming. She's been pretty active all day and moving even as I type this. I'm enjoying being pregnant and experiencing all of this - actually I love it - but her arrival seems so far away sometimes.

Daddy's girl

C felt Mia move last night! It was so exciting. I had just laid down in the bed and she started bumping and nudging me a little bit. I told C she was moving around. I hadn't felt her very much during the day. He put his hand on my belly and I felt her move and asked if he felt it. He did! Then, I swear, I think she actually kicked me. The feeling wasn't as subtle as it usually is and he really felt that one. It just made my day!

Week 20

We are halfway there! Had an appointment with the doctor this morning. Everything's fine and measuring like it's supposed to. Mia's heart rate was 148 today. The doctor said my weight was about right for the halfway point but measuring on the high end. I really need to start walking. :(

Here's some info on her development for this week:

Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)

Your baby is already starting to kick. And while you're feeling her first kicks, she's feeling all kinds of new sensations, too. Her touch receptors are now forming connections to the brain, and she's developing a sense of touch. Not to mention a sense of hearing. That's right, her inner ear, or cochlea, is developing. Believe it or not, your little one can now hear you speak.

A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).

My next appointment is scheduled for April 7th (Week 24). During this appointment I will have to take the glucose test to test for diabetes. They gave me some orange stuff to drink before the test and I can't eat or drink anything 4 hours prior to the test. Good thing the test is in the morning. :)

Can you feel me now?

I have been feeling little Mia's bumps and nudges all week. It is the neatest feeling in the whole world. Most of them are still very faint but they are there. I feel like I have been waiting an eternity to feel this! I only notice it when I am sitting down too. Now, I can't wait until C can feel them from the outside of my belly. I was sitting on the couch last night and said, "She's bumping me again." C came running over to see if he could feel and he couldn't. That's going to be so exciting for him when he finally can feel his daughter move. :)

Also, this week I have been running through my head some things I can do in order to stay home with the munchkin. Nothing I think up seems to be workable. I thought about selling my car and getting a cheaper one, but I wonder how much that would really save in the long run since I will be financing for longer than it would take to pay this car off. I thought about refinancing my car but I'm not sure that a bank will be able to get my monthly payment much lower to be able to make a difference. I thought about turning the home phone off since we both have cell phones, but little things like that don't seem to be enough for me to quit work altogether. I want to finish this stupid associate's degree but that student loan will just be one more bill to have to worry about. I know I'm making this way more difficult than it should be. I should just accept the fact that I'm going to have to work and start getting used to it now. It's going to be so hard to leave that beautiful little girl with a stranger while I go to a job that I find so boring. I guess that's life, huh?

Movement?

I think I felt Mia yesterday. I was sitting on the couch and rather than flutters or something like that, it felt more like little bumps in my belly. It was really sweet. Guess that was her birthday present to mommy! :)

Week 19

She sure is getting big! :)

YOUR BABY THIS WEEK

Your baby’s senses of hearing, smelling, and touching are developing quickly. Talk and read to your baby, as your voice is likely the first your baby will hear.

This week your baby is approximately the size of a medium eggplant (head to rump).

It's official

Just an update on the previous post. Daddy and Mommy have decided to name the sweetest little girl in the whole wide world Mia Claire. :)

Mia Claire?

We've decided to call our precious little girl Mia. There's only one problem at the moment. We can't decide on the full name. I thought we were set on Mia Claire, but daddy doesn't think it has the right flow or enough syllables. I've been trying to think of replacement names and just can't seem to like anything but Mia Claire. I just love the way it sounds and looks.

After some research on the internet I've found that Mia can be short for Amelia and Miranda, neither of which I care for very much. C thought that Mariska would be nice for the first name but everywhere we looked the meaning of that name was "bitter" - not really something you want your child's name to mean. I just found a place where Mariska means "of the sea" which I just absolutely love. We're talking it over but she will definitely be called Mia. Sweet little Mia. :)