Our little Miss is SIX whole pounds.
36 Weeks + 3 Days (Growth Scan, NST, BLOOD THINNER CHANGE)
Tuesday, February 16, 2021
I don't think I've felt this excited or confident about Tatum's arrival like I did yesterday morning.
Sunday, March 4, 2018
And just like that, we have reached my final pregnancy update for baby #3. I keep thinking back on last July and how long ago it seems that was.
How far Along: 39 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle, baby Liam, sweet boy, peanut
Size of baby: About the size of a mini watermelon (over 7 pounds)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Pelvic pressure, hip pain, back pain... and I feel SO DANG TIRED. Oh, I almost forgot - charley horses are becoming far too frequent as well. In the last two weeks I've had three and they are PAINFUL!
Best moment this week: Justin and I had a little hoorah.. our first date night in over two years. Liam kicked almost the entire night! That time was so, so needed. It felt like a sliver of a baby moon.
Movement: He's most active in the afternoon and night (and right after breakfast). I feel like his little toes are extending much higher near the breasts than the girls ever moved! Lots of kicking, rolling, and the normal jabbing.
Food Cravings: None. Which is frustrating. I'll be staring off into space, thinking, "Hmm.. I could really go for something right now" ... and that something is never discovered. Worst feeling ever!
Food Aversions: I am in the clear!
What I Miss: I miss not having insomnia so frequently. I miss being able to sleep on my stomach/back/comfortably - i'd take any one of those three. I also miss not waking up and feeling like my entire body just fell down on top of my pelvic bones. Getting out of bed has required help from Justin - that is a definite first for me.
Sleep: This current sleep cycle is killing me. So most nights I can't sleep due to insomnia and spend way too much time watching reruns of SVU. As a result I am so dang tired when I wake up and making it through the day without a nap is impossible. Repeat sleep cycle.
Justin: Justin mapped out his work schedule so now we know how long he'll be home after baby is born. It's close to a full month and I know this man is so excited to soak in our life as a family of five. If you know my husband, you know that he is likely the least (outwardly) emotional person. He definitely reserves most of his vulnerable feelings for me and the kids. I'm totally fine with that because, well... not everyone should be able to reach us on deeper levels. Watching him prepare for our son has brought out a side of him that I didn't expect. I watch him turn to emotion a lot more when responding to certain situations. Not totally sure if its because we are become more seasoned in life, we are on our third kiddo, or simply because having a baby is emotional. Whatever the reason, it makes me wonder what type of emotion Justin will have meeting Liam for the first time.
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle, baby Liam, sweet boy, peanut
Size of baby: About the size of a mini watermelon (over 7 pounds)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Pelvic pressure, hip pain, back pain... and I feel SO DANG TIRED. Oh, I almost forgot - charley horses are becoming far too frequent as well. In the last two weeks I've had three and they are PAINFUL!
Best moment this week: Justin and I had a little hoorah.. our first date night in over two years. Liam kicked almost the entire night! That time was so, so needed. It felt like a sliver of a baby moon.
Movement: He's most active in the afternoon and night (and right after breakfast). I feel like his little toes are extending much higher near the breasts than the girls ever moved! Lots of kicking, rolling, and the normal jabbing.
Food Cravings: None. Which is frustrating. I'll be staring off into space, thinking, "Hmm.. I could really go for something right now" ... and that something is never discovered. Worst feeling ever!
Food Aversions: I am in the clear!
What I Miss: I miss not having insomnia so frequently. I miss being able to sleep on my stomach/back/comfortably - i'd take any one of those three. I also miss not waking up and feeling like my entire body just fell down on top of my pelvic bones. Getting out of bed has required help from Justin - that is a definite first for me.
Sleep: This current sleep cycle is killing me. So most nights I can't sleep due to insomnia and spend way too much time watching reruns of SVU. As a result I am so dang tired when I wake up and making it through the day without a nap is impossible. Repeat sleep cycle.
Justin: Justin mapped out his work schedule so now we know how long he'll be home after baby is born. It's close to a full month and I know this man is so excited to soak in our life as a family of five. If you know my husband, you know that he is likely the least (outwardly) emotional person. He definitely reserves most of his vulnerable feelings for me and the kids. I'm totally fine with that because, well... not everyone should be able to reach us on deeper levels. Watching him prepare for our son has brought out a side of him that I didn't expect. I watch him turn to emotion a lot more when responding to certain situations. Not totally sure if its because we are become more seasoned in life, we are on our third kiddo, or simply because having a baby is emotional. Whatever the reason, it makes me wonder what type of emotion Justin will have meeting Liam for the first time.
Ava: We just don't deserve this child. Seriously. Reflecting on my first born and talking with her about her baby brother coming has been so incredibly enlightening. After all, Ava is the reason we decided to try for more children in the first place. At a playdate earlier today, Ava was asked if she was excited for her baby brother to arrive and what she planned on doing to help with baby brother. Her response? "I'm excited for my baby brother and I'm going to help mommy clean and help dress him." Like seriously? She is perfection and I CANNOT stress to you how truly blessed we are to have this little girl. Ava continues to show the makings of an excellent role model - I couldn't be more proud of her.
Olivia: We don't give this babe enough credit when it comes to understanding that our family dynamic will be changing here soon. Anytime she sees something blue, a baby purchase, or just smaller diapers - she shrieks and says, "For baby brother?!" and we nod our heads and she gets the biggest smile on her face. She still loves to have "bump" matches with her little brother and she'll put her head on my belly for a long while feeling him kick.
What I am looking forward to this week: My OB appointment this week. I know my midwife will likely check my cervix again and I also have a ton of questions regarding delivery at the hospital we chose. More than that, I'm excited to be one week closer to meeting my son.
Happy or moody most of the time: I feel happy, but I also feel incredibly anxious. I have been waiting months to meet my boy and I feel like all of these emotions and thoughts are hitting me full force all at one time. Sometimes the processing aspect gets the best of me, but I don't feel any less happy. I feel incredible - you know, physical pains aside.
Happy or moody most of the time: I feel happy, but I also feel incredibly anxious. I have been waiting months to meet my boy and I feel like all of these emotions and thoughts are hitting me full force all at one time. Sometimes the processing aspect gets the best of me, but I don't feel any less happy. I feel incredible - you know, physical pains aside.
Monday, December 18, 2017
Guys, I am flipping exhausted. I don't mean "sleepless night and I'll be tip top tomorrow" kind of exhausted. I mean, get a full night sleep and I'm still exhausted kind of exhausted. I know compared to my last two pregnancies, I am definitely on the go a lot more. I'm on my feet about 85% of the time, if not more and I constantly have something to do. My schedule tied into my tired... I am definitely feeling it. Currently, our entire house also has a cold/stomach bug. I've cleaned up more vomit, snot, and spilled beverages than I can count this weekend AND to make matters more interesting, my love is also super sick. Thankfully, he hasn't been throwing up, but still, he's down and I feel that too. On a positive note, we are just 84 days away from Liam's predicted due date and somehow I know those days are going to fly right on by!
How Far Along: 28 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle, baby Liam, sweet boy
Size of baby: About the size of a large eggplant (roughly 2 and 1/4 pounds)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Round ligament pains (ouch), infrequent morning sickness, BACK PAINS
Best moment this week: NESTING. We organized our in-room "nursery" for a baby boy.
Movement: ALL. THE. TIME. Liam is either rolling, kicking, or randomly jabbing me in the bladder
Food Cravings: Any type of chicken sandwich at this point. It's so dang terrible!
Food Aversions: Nothing ever really sounds good anymore. Just random thoughts of cravings.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I want to sleep every single minute of my life. This crazy level of exhaustion has hit and I am down for the count when the girls are asleep for naps, bedtime, OR when Justin is home - I sneak in the zzz's as often as possible.
Justin: This poor guy! He is totally sick (our entire house is lately, but it's seldom that Justin gets sick and when he does it's like he's lost a limb or something. Sorry babe, but its true) and as a result, I've taken on more than I normally do. But before Sunday, this guy went out to Lowe's to buy all replacement parts for our changing table for Liam, braved a Target trip at 8pm so I could get canvas basket organizers, and continued to have his regular talks with our boy. It is the absolute sweetest thing.
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle, baby Liam, sweet boy
Size of baby: About the size of a large eggplant (roughly 2 and 1/4 pounds)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Round ligament pains (ouch), infrequent morning sickness, BACK PAINS
Best moment this week: NESTING. We organized our in-room "nursery" for a baby boy.
Movement: ALL. THE. TIME. Liam is either rolling, kicking, or randomly jabbing me in the bladder
Food Cravings: Any type of chicken sandwich at this point. It's so dang terrible!
Food Aversions: Nothing ever really sounds good anymore. Just random thoughts of cravings.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I want to sleep every single minute of my life. This crazy level of exhaustion has hit and I am down for the count when the girls are asleep for naps, bedtime, OR when Justin is home - I sneak in the zzz's as often as possible.
Justin: This poor guy! He is totally sick (our entire house is lately, but it's seldom that Justin gets sick and when he does it's like he's lost a limb or something. Sorry babe, but its true) and as a result, I've taken on more than I normally do. But before Sunday, this guy went out to Lowe's to buy all replacement parts for our changing table for Liam, braved a Target trip at 8pm so I could get canvas basket organizers, and continued to have his regular talks with our boy. It is the absolute sweetest thing.
Ava: My sweet girl has reached the point of... "When is baby brother coming?" on a daily basis. She continues to watch my belly grow and her brother's kick becomes stronger... I don't think anyone in our family is more ready for Liam's arrival than Ava is. She's right beside me for each and every baby item setup (swing, bassinet, changing table, etc) and she's so excited that she's going to be a big sister again.
Olivia: I bought a big sister book for our Livy Bean this week and it was a HUGE hit. Watching her care for her dolls - loving on them, feeding them, and tucking them in. It is almost like she's preparing herself right alongside me.
What I am looking forward to this week: Not having a scratchy throat, runny nose, and sick family. But also, the continued nesting that surfaced this past week. Seeing all of Liam's things come out of boxes is the most surreal feeling.
Happy or moody most of the time: I feel happy. I feel blessed. Something clicked this week and all of a sudden my Christmas spirit has emerged full force. Christmas movies, making gingerbread houses, and Christmas pajamas.. it feels good to feel a little more like myself during my favorite time of year.
Happy or moody most of the time: I feel happy. I feel blessed. Something clicked this week and all of a sudden my Christmas spirit has emerged full force. Christmas movies, making gingerbread houses, and Christmas pajamas.. it feels good to feel a little more like myself during my favorite time of year.
Monday, November 20, 2017
Today is huge. It is more than huge. Today we have reached the milestone of all milestones in pregnancy. We have hit the viability mark. This means that if our sweet boy were to come early, his best chance of survival would start this week. While I'm hoping he doesn't come any earlier than March, it is completely comforting to know that modern technology and current medical advancements would be working hard to keep our son alive and well. I also completed all of my maternity pre-admission paperwork for the hospital we'll be delivering at. I have to say, I'm getting deja-vu all over again. At this milestone with each of my pregnancies... the time just begins to move by so quickly!
How far Along: 24 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: About the length of an ear corn
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, round ligament pains (ouch), and pinched nerves in the back
Best moment this week: Viability milestone met!
Movement: My sweet baby boy is on the move! I can feel him moving pretty regularly throughout the day. Still not feeling external kicks, but movement is movement at this stage.
Food Cravings: CHOCOLATE and caffeine
Food Aversions: Anything acidic. I don't even go near spaghetti anymore.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I'm exhausted during the day - hence naps.. but I have the worst insomnia at night. Such a vicious cycle.
Justin: My love has been so awesome! Ultrasound appointments, late night store runs, and insomnia induced conversations at 2AM... couldn't ask for much more. We finally worked out a theme this week and purchases are being made.. I know daddy is super excited to have his son join the trio of Denver Bronco fans that are already in the house.
How far Along: 24 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: About the length of an ear corn
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, round ligament pains (ouch), and pinched nerves in the back
Best moment this week: Viability milestone met!
Movement: My sweet baby boy is on the move! I can feel him moving pretty regularly throughout the day. Still not feeling external kicks, but movement is movement at this stage.
Food Cravings: CHOCOLATE and caffeine
Food Aversions: Anything acidic. I don't even go near spaghetti anymore.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I'm exhausted during the day - hence naps.. but I have the worst insomnia at night. Such a vicious cycle.
Justin: My love has been so awesome! Ultrasound appointments, late night store runs, and insomnia induced conversations at 2AM... couldn't ask for much more. We finally worked out a theme this week and purchases are being made.. I know daddy is super excited to have his son join the trio of Denver Bronco fans that are already in the house.
Ava: Ava, since the first day we told her she was having a brother... she has just been so dang amazing. She rubs my belly, talks to her brother constantly, and she's always asking questions. "Is my baby brother sleeping right now?" "Is he playing in there?" just the sweetest things. She wants to be so involved and I have no doubt that she'll be the same incredible big sister to her brother that she has been to her sister.
Olivia: Oh my Livy bean. She loves to look at her baby brother's clothes, she loves kissing my belly, and she loves poking my belly to "wake up brudder" - all the time. She is in the phase where everything is "mine" and that makes me a little nervous for when her brother arrives.
What I am looking forward to this week: Thanksgiving, family time, and a little break from the hustle and bustle.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am a happy mama, but I have noticed over the last two weeks that when I get upset or angry... I am not quiet about it. I know my testosterone levels are likely the highest they have ever been in my life - which probably has everything to do with the fact that I just have zero chill. I feel brash, I make comments about wanting to kick people in the shin more than I ever have in my life (I'm not carrying out this notion), and rather than crying about stuff like i normally would - I get mad. Let's hope this passes quickly!
♥- Leilani
What I am looking forward to this week: Thanksgiving, family time, and a little break from the hustle and bustle.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am a happy mama, but I have noticed over the last two weeks that when I get upset or angry... I am not quiet about it. I know my testosterone levels are likely the highest they have ever been in my life - which probably has everything to do with the fact that I just have zero chill. I feel brash, I make comments about wanting to kick people in the shin more than I ever have in my life (I'm not carrying out this notion), and rather than crying about stuff like i normally would - I get mad. Let's hope this passes quickly!
♥- Leilani
Monday, November 6, 2017
Writing this blog has me so emotional (and I'm just a few words in). I was 22 weeks pregnant with Ava when I made the decision to change my blogging platform and thus came "Simply Howland" shortly after. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect sharing my life with all of you would become such a buzz and that I'd be writing my third 22 week pregnancy update today. But, alas, here we are and my pregnancy with this sweet growing boy is fleeting. Being over the halfway mark is always exciting and I know with the holidays quickly approaching, this pregnancy will continue to fly right on by.
How far Along: 22 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Spaghetti squash (around one pound)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, round ligament pains (ouch), and pinched nerves in the back
Best moment this week: Definitely when I started feeling my little pickle move around. There is no denying the wiggles and little kicks that have been pretty frequent the last week.
Movement: My sweet baby boy is on the move! I can feel him moving pretty regularly throughout the day. Still not feeling external kicks, but movement is movement at this stage.
Food Cravings: cheesy things.. but also, semi sweet stuff too. So odd because nothing sounds good until someone mentions something specific to me.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days, unless the above happens.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I've been going to bed a lot later than normal and paying for that with lack of sleep while trying to sleep. It's a vicious cycle.
Justin: Lots of love for the belly this week! Justin has been talking to his son on a regular basis and giving my belly all the love and attention.
What I am looking forward to this week: I'm looking forward to *potentially* sharing the name of our boy with his custom stocking I got in the mail.
Happy or moody most of the time: The mood stuff is truly a toss up. Last week I got full on annoyed about something that normally wouldn't cause me any annoyance. When something happens I either cry or I get mad. I am generally not someone that gets angry, so that's been new. Even still. I'm taking it in stride. I'm growing life right now and my hormones are all over the place. I'm still pretty happy most of the time... until something sparks my anger. I'm really hoping this doesn't last through the rest of my pregnancy, but with all this extra testosterone.. we will just have to see.
♥- Leilani
How far Along: 22 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Spaghetti squash (around one pound)
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, round ligament pains (ouch), and pinched nerves in the back
Best moment this week: Definitely when I started feeling my little pickle move around. There is no denying the wiggles and little kicks that have been pretty frequent the last week.
Movement: My sweet baby boy is on the move! I can feel him moving pretty regularly throughout the day. Still not feeling external kicks, but movement is movement at this stage.
Food Cravings: cheesy things.. but also, semi sweet stuff too. So odd because nothing sounds good until someone mentions something specific to me.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days, unless the above happens.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - I literally spend most of the night tossing and turning.
Sleep: I've been going to bed a lot later than normal and paying for that with lack of sleep while trying to sleep. It's a vicious cycle.
Justin: Lots of love for the belly this week! Justin has been talking to his son on a regular basis and giving my belly all the love and attention.
What I am looking forward to this week: I'm looking forward to *potentially* sharing the name of our boy with his custom stocking I got in the mail.
Happy or moody most of the time: The mood stuff is truly a toss up. Last week I got full on annoyed about something that normally wouldn't cause me any annoyance. When something happens I either cry or I get mad. I am generally not someone that gets angry, so that's been new. Even still. I'm taking it in stride. I'm growing life right now and my hormones are all over the place. I'm still pretty happy most of the time... until something sparks my anger. I'm really hoping this doesn't last through the rest of my pregnancy, but with all this extra testosterone.. we will just have to see.
Baby boy's God mama loving on my baby bump!
♥- Leilani
Thursday, October 26, 2017
The halfway mark! I honestly cannot believe that we only have 20 more weeks until our son arrives. I'm sharing this update three days late, but our trip to Washington definitely left me feeling tired and homesick. I can't even begin to tell you how truly magical it was to spend a little chunk of this pregnancy in the PNW. We were surrounded with love and having my family/friends love on my pregnant belly was everything. I do wish I would have spent more time with even more loved ones during our trip, but outside of that - this trip was healing and exactly what I needed. I can't wait until our son is earth side. I'm seriously over the moon about this sweet boy, as are his daddy and sisters.
How far Along: 20 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Banana
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, infrequent waves of nausea, morning sickness, and round ligament pains (ouch)!
Best moment this week: I though I felt some distinct movement this last week, but now I'm not sure if it was just gas.
Movement: I haven't had any movement really, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile).
Food Cravings: cranberry juice. Always cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - especially because I have not busted out my maternity pillow.
Sleep: This vacation completely knocked my sleep schedule out of wack. I'm tired, exhausted, and all I want is to SLEEP.
Justin: This poor man. I think my frequent mood swings and short tempered demeanor are starting to take a little bit of a toll. He's a trooper though and he's taking everything in stride.
What I am looking forward to this week: Texas weather has finally made up its mind and I think we'll be experiencing TRUE fall weather in the next week. I seriously talk about this all the time. I need to thrive! I'm also looking forward to my next scan in just a few weeks.
Happy or moody most of the time: I have definitely been a lot more moody in these last few weeks. Irritable, emotional, and easily offended. I recall going through something similar when I was pregnant with Olivia. Hopefully, this passes!
♥- Leilani
How far Along: 20 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Banana
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, infrequent waves of nausea, morning sickness, and round ligament pains (ouch)!
Best moment this week: I though I felt some distinct movement this last week, but now I'm not sure if it was just gas.
Movement: I haven't had any movement really, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile).
Food Cravings: cranberry juice. Always cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - especially because I have not busted out my maternity pillow.
Sleep: This vacation completely knocked my sleep schedule out of wack. I'm tired, exhausted, and all I want is to SLEEP.
Justin: This poor man. I think my frequent mood swings and short tempered demeanor are starting to take a little bit of a toll. He's a trooper though and he's taking everything in stride.
What I am looking forward to this week: Texas weather has finally made up its mind and I think we'll be experiencing TRUE fall weather in the next week. I seriously talk about this all the time. I need to thrive! I'm also looking forward to my next scan in just a few weeks.
Happy or moody most of the time: I have definitely been a lot more moody in these last few weeks. Irritable, emotional, and easily offended. I recall going through something similar when I was pregnant with Olivia. Hopefully, this passes!
♥- Leilani
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
The last month has flown by so incredibly fast! I can't believe my next pregnancy highlight will also mark the halfway mark in this pregnancy. Guys, I couldn't feel any more blessed than I do right now. The girls are so excited about this baby, they talk about our baby constantly. Justin and I are already dreaming up all of the ways our family will change and how excited we are for those changes. I openly talk to people about our pregnancy a lot more often and it feels good knowing that things seem to be okay and the emotions and chaos from early on in the first trimester may very well be behind us. I'm looking forward to writing these updates and sharing them with my readers. Without further ado, here's my sixteen week update!
How far Along: 16 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Avocado
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, infrequent waves of nausea, morning sickness, and round ligament pains (ouch)!
Best moment this week: Going in for my 16 week check up and having my midwife find baby's heartbeat.
Movement: I haven't had any movement, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile).
Food Cravings: Italian sandwiches galore.. though they give me heartburn like crazy.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - especially since Olivia still co-sleeps at night.
Sleep: I'm tired by ten (sometimes before) every night and its a struggle to stay awake.
Justin: Finding out that we are expecting our first son definitely created some nerves with this man. It's going to be a new learning curve for our entire family and I know Justin is both equally excited and anxious about bringing a baby boy into this world. He's been singing ALL the songs you can imagine about boys and their dads. Its the cutest thing.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am looking forward to cooler weather so I can snuggle my pregnant self in all the fall/winter clothes I can. I cannot wait to see this baby bump in full force! I already feel bigger in this pregnancy and rounder.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am one happy camper! Our son is healthy, I can hear his movement through the doppler, and I finally feel like I can breath a little for the first time in this pregnancy.
How far Along: 16 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle (we have decided to keep our sweet boy's name private for now).
Size of baby: Avocado
Gender Prediction: It's a boy! Confirmed blood test at 12 weeks AND gender scan at 15 weeks.
Symptoms: Heartburn, infrequent waves of nausea, morning sickness, and round ligament pains (ouch)!
Best moment this week: Going in for my 16 week check up and having my midwife find baby's heartbeat.
Movement: I haven't had any movement, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile).
Food Cravings: Italian sandwiches galore.. though they give me heartburn like crazy.
Food Aversions: Everything. Nothing sounds good these days.
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably - especially since Olivia still co-sleeps at night.
Sleep: I'm tired by ten (sometimes before) every night and its a struggle to stay awake.
Justin: Finding out that we are expecting our first son definitely created some nerves with this man. It's going to be a new learning curve for our entire family and I know Justin is both equally excited and anxious about bringing a baby boy into this world. He's been singing ALL the songs you can imagine about boys and their dads. Its the cutest thing.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am looking forward to cooler weather so I can snuggle my pregnant self in all the fall/winter clothes I can. I cannot wait to see this baby bump in full force! I already feel bigger in this pregnancy and rounder.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am one happy camper! Our son is healthy, I can hear his movement through the doppler, and I finally feel like I can breath a little for the first time in this pregnancy.
A profile of our boy at 15 weeks and two days.
♥- Leilani
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
This is my first pregnancy update since we announced publicly that baby # 3 is underway, and I am SO excited to start documenting and sharing all the things in my pregnancy with this sweet little pickle. Writing this up feels so surreal to me because just two years ago I was updating and sharing my pregnancy details with sweet Olivia. Justin and I feel extremely grateful and so incredibly blessed that we get to bring another life into the world. This pregnancy has been so easy in many ways (I have literally had less than a dozen morning sickness episodes) and a lot harder in others (finding out our twin pregnancy became a singleton pregnancy). Even with all we've gone through so far, we are still focusing on the good + happiness we continuously feel. That being said, are you ready to read these updates?!
How far Along: 12 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle
Size of baby: Lime
Gender Prediction: We are definitely thinking this baby is a boy
Symptoms: Heartburn and infrequent waves of nausea.
Best moment this week: Seeing our sweet baby via ultrasound for an NT scan
Movement: I haven't had any movement, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile)
Food Cravings: root beer floats (strange because I hate root beer)
Food Aversions: Nothing ever really sounds good
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably
Sleep: I can never get enough sleep! Once I'm out, I'm out.
Justin: This man has been an absolute gem. He's taken on our family tasks and executed all of them while I sleep, relax, or just cope with the emotions in this pregnancy. I saw my husband go through the emotion whirlwind when we found out we lost one of the twins; hardest moment we've had in quite some time. All in all he is so excited about this baby and he's so dang supportive of me!
What I am looking forward to this week: I am looking forward to being a week closer to the second trimester and getting our blood results back to determine the gender for this sweet little one. That's right! This mama decided to have earlier gratifications with the gender this time around.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am definitely happy most of the time, I have every single reason to be. I spent the last couple of weeks feeling so darn sad... I'm glad I've been able to find my happy place again and soak up this pregnancy just as much as i can.
♥- Leilani
How far Along: 12 weeks
Nicknames for baby: Our little pickle
Size of baby: Lime
Gender Prediction: We are definitely thinking this baby is a boy
Symptoms: Heartburn and infrequent waves of nausea.
Best moment this week: Seeing our sweet baby via ultrasound for an NT scan
Movement: I haven't had any movement, and I also have an anterior placenta (it may be awhile)
Food Cravings: root beer floats (strange because I hate root beer)
Food Aversions: Nothing ever really sounds good
What I Miss: Being able to sleep comfortably
Sleep: I can never get enough sleep! Once I'm out, I'm out.
Justin: This man has been an absolute gem. He's taken on our family tasks and executed all of them while I sleep, relax, or just cope with the emotions in this pregnancy. I saw my husband go through the emotion whirlwind when we found out we lost one of the twins; hardest moment we've had in quite some time. All in all he is so excited about this baby and he's so dang supportive of me!
What I am looking forward to this week: I am looking forward to being a week closer to the second trimester and getting our blood results back to determine the gender for this sweet little one. That's right! This mama decided to have earlier gratifications with the gender this time around.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am definitely happy most of the time, I have every single reason to be. I spent the last couple of weeks feeling so darn sad... I'm glad I've been able to find my happy place again and soak up this pregnancy just as much as i can.
Ultrasound photo of our little pickle from earlier this week. And no, baby doesn't have a super long nose - the baby is sucking on fingers already! It's an arm!
♥- Leilani
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Yesterday was the day that my little Livy bean was due to arrive. That's the funny thing about predicted due dates though, they can definitely be wrong. I feel like I've got a million emotions surging at this point, and they all lead back to one thought... Envisioning my sweet girl in my arms. I had an OB appointment yesterday, and it went exactly how I expected... talks of medical induction yet again. I was checked again, I actually allowed the OB to do a membrane sweep (in hopes it would jump start something), and she went over the risks of allowing myself to be pregnant for longer. Stillbirth was mentioned and that put me in such a scary place. No one wants to hear that their completely healthy baby could die for no good reason. I know it scared Justin to pieces and it actually had him bringing up the possibility of me being induced. I won't lie, even I have been worried about my decisions potentially harming my baby. The goal is to get her here safely, even if that means I lose out on some of the things I sought after with birth. I made a horrible decision to take castor oil (in a moment of desperation), and I am regretting that without a doubt. Intense contractions, cramping (shooting) stomach pains.... only to have them lead to nothing but discomfort. I won't be trying to do any other "natural" form of induction on my own, as it is clear that this child isn't coming out until she is ready. I'm really hoping this is my last pregnancy highlight, so here it is!
How far Along: 40 weeks 1 day
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Size of baby: An estimated 8 pounds (the size of a jack fruit)
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and contractions.
Best moment this week: Knowing that my body is slowly but surely prepping itself for labor. Being so dilated, being almost completely thinned out, etc.
Movement: Her movement has actually changed in this last week or so, and apparently it's the new norm for how far along I am.
Food Cravings: Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: At this point I miss being able to actively move the way I want. I cannot bend over, I wake up with back aches, I can't shave my own legs... I am just ready to be able to do things on my own and obviously meet my little one.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: Supportive just doesn't do him justice. This week has been scary for both of us and I know with this being his first time having to process some of these feelings up close and in person... it hasn't been easy for him. I've woken him up on more than one occasion because my contractions have been so strong. I've woken him up for comfort or to phone labor and delivery. He rolls with the punches and i truly believe that will be my saving grace in this experience.
How far Along: 40 weeks 1 day
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Size of baby: An estimated 8 pounds (the size of a jack fruit)
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and contractions.
Best moment this week: Knowing that my body is slowly but surely prepping itself for labor. Being so dilated, being almost completely thinned out, etc.
Movement: Her movement has actually changed in this last week or so, and apparently it's the new norm for how far along I am.
Food Cravings: Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: At this point I miss being able to actively move the way I want. I cannot bend over, I wake up with back aches, I can't shave my own legs... I am just ready to be able to do things on my own and obviously meet my little one.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: Supportive just doesn't do him justice. This week has been scary for both of us and I know with this being his first time having to process some of these feelings up close and in person... it hasn't been easy for him. I've woken him up on more than one occasion because my contractions have been so strong. I've woken him up for comfort or to phone labor and delivery. He rolls with the punches and i truly believe that will be my saving grace in this experience.
Ava: My trooper! Here lately a good chunk of the attentions she gets from mama is gone. I have been napping more, doing less, and just trying to physically gain the strength I need for potentially going into labor each day. She has been completely understanding and clinging to her daddy a bit more in my absence.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am truthfully looking forward to meeting Olivia. I really hope that happens in the next week. This little girl has been swooned over for the last 9 months and I'm ready to meet her.
Happy or moody most of the time: I'm happy, but also very anxious. My mind is all over the place but the one thing I want/need is very clear. Do whatever I have to do in order to deliver a healthy babe. No matter the route, that's the end goal. I need to remind myself of this daily. As a mother, everything gets puts aside (including my own pride) when it comes to the well being of my babes.
Happy or moody most of the time: I'm happy, but also very anxious. My mind is all over the place but the one thing I want/need is very clear. Do whatever I have to do in order to deliver a healthy babe. No matter the route, that's the end goal. I need to remind myself of this daily. As a mother, everything gets puts aside (including my own pride) when it comes to the well being of my babes.
39 weeks 6 days pregnant in this photo.
♥- Leilani
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Well, here we are. Sitting at just 7 days until my predicted due date. I had an OB appointment this morning and it was most definitely more hectic than I anticipated. I went into this appointment knowing that the OB would want to check my progression (again) to see if I had progressed at all from last week. I did not know that I would end up with an involuntary membrane sweep... Yeah, that was pretty unexpected. I'm actually pretty upset about the fact that she just did it without my consent and I am filing an ICE complaint against the OB that decided to just take matters into her own hands. My goal this pregnancy was simple. I just wanted nature to take it's course and to have things occur on their own. This pregnancy is uncomplicated without risks, and all I heard this morning was how "dangerous" it is to go to 40 weeks.. or even past my due date. This was the first time that I had even heard that in my pregnancy with Olivia, so you could imagine my bewilderment... but onto better news! As of today, I am 3-4 centimeters dilated, I am 90% effaced, and measuring at 40 weeks. Olivia's heart rate was in the mid 140's, and she's doing perfectly! This very well may be the last pregnancy update I have.. so here it is!
How far Along: 39 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
How far Along: 39 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Size of baby: An estimated 7 and 1/2 pounds (the size of a mini watermelon)
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Charlie horse leg cramps (OUCH, OUCH), breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and contractions.
Best moment this week: Being seven days away from my due date is really amazing. If I don't go into labor in the next day, I'll have officially been more pregnant with Olivia than I was with Ava bug. Feeling ready and prepped for the arrival of this baby girl just feels so incredibly wonderful. Everything in this house is ready, including her big sister and parents!
Movement: Whenever I lay still, she is moving. I love it so, so much.
Food Cravings: Fish sticks (surprisingly, my second round in this pregnancy). Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: This is ironic, but I already miss this pregnancy. I can't believe how quickly it went by and I know with her arrival just hours/days away, things are going to go by even faster with a newborn. I didn't rush things this time around, I wasn't impatient. It's very bitter sweet to have experienced.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: There isn't anything I can say that I haven't already said about this man. Pregnancy with him being in garrison was a complete game changer for us. Having to deal with the skyrocketed emotions from one another, the irritations, the new found "norm" for intimacy... it was most certainly a lot to take in and establish common ground. I know Justin is more than ready to meet Olivia and to see his wife go back to being "normal" if that's even what I'd call it? Ultimately, I am grateful his support has been so abundant and available to me.
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Charlie horse leg cramps (OUCH, OUCH), breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and contractions.
Best moment this week: Being seven days away from my due date is really amazing. If I don't go into labor in the next day, I'll have officially been more pregnant with Olivia than I was with Ava bug. Feeling ready and prepped for the arrival of this baby girl just feels so incredibly wonderful. Everything in this house is ready, including her big sister and parents!
Movement: Whenever I lay still, she is moving. I love it so, so much.
Food Cravings: Fish sticks (surprisingly, my second round in this pregnancy). Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: This is ironic, but I already miss this pregnancy. I can't believe how quickly it went by and I know with her arrival just hours/days away, things are going to go by even faster with a newborn. I didn't rush things this time around, I wasn't impatient. It's very bitter sweet to have experienced.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: There isn't anything I can say that I haven't already said about this man. Pregnancy with him being in garrison was a complete game changer for us. Having to deal with the skyrocketed emotions from one another, the irritations, the new found "norm" for intimacy... it was most certainly a lot to take in and establish common ground. I know Justin is more than ready to meet Olivia and to see his wife go back to being "normal" if that's even what I'd call it? Ultimately, I am grateful his support has been so abundant and available to me.
Ava: I love my sweet bug so, so, so, so, so MUCH. Seriously there were so many bleak days during this pregnancy with her baby sister... having Ava's loving spirit and warm demeanor helped on more occasions than one. I have never felt more confident that she is going to make an exceptional big sister, and I know she can't wait to see the baby we've been talking about for months. Having Ava was the reason we knew we wanted more kiddos, so in large part this is happening because of the little person she is.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am looking forward to seeing if the membrane sweep actually puts me into labor, or if i'll be writing up a 40 week pregnancy update for all of you.
Happy or moody most of the time: I am definitely happy, but I've also been very stressed. Having gone through being sick, now a cold sore, and this icky Washington weather... I literally just threw my hands up and just decided to roll with the punches... I mean I don't really have a choice anyways, why not just learn to dance in the rain? I'm trying to keep myself in the best spirits possible and stay focused on the fact that I am going to be experiencing childbirth again very soon.
Here's a short video I made so you can see the nasty that is my cold sore, ha!
P.S. excuse the eyebrows.. totally had a malfunction.
♥- Leilani
Happy or moody most of the time: I am definitely happy, but I've also been very stressed. Having gone through being sick, now a cold sore, and this icky Washington weather... I literally just threw my hands up and just decided to roll with the punches... I mean I don't really have a choice anyways, why not just learn to dance in the rain? I'm trying to keep myself in the best spirits possible and stay focused on the fact that I am going to be experiencing childbirth again very soon.
Here's a short video I made so you can see the nasty that is my cold sore, ha!
P.S. excuse the eyebrows.. totally had a malfunction.
♥- Leilani
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Where has the time gone? Seriously. Where? I've been back home for three full days and I've been non-stop ever since... even while battling a cold I managed to pick up from our travels. I thought being sick in general was not ideal, but being sick while 38 weeks pregnant is absolute torture. I've got this MEAN case of nasal congestion, my throat hurt (up until yesterday), and the mucus cough...it's just not been fun. I have been sleeping a lot more, going to bed a lot earlier, and allowing Justin to graciously assist with tasks around the house. I *think* I may be on the mend, so I'm hoping that's the case. In other news at around 130 am this past Saturday (just an hour after we landed in Seattle), I went into labor and delivery to get myself and Livy bean checked out. Flying wasn't nearly as terrible as I expected, but I always caution on the side of safety. I'm happy to report that this mama bear and baby girl # 2 are doing excellent, with the exception of my cold. Olivia had one day this past week where she wasn't as active, and that was actually the day we were heading home from New York. Other than that, she's been moving up a storm! My sister, Ava bug, and Justin got to feel some pretty intense kicks and rolls on Sunday, that was a lot of fun to watch my family bonding with this baby already.
How far Along: 38 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Ava: Ahh, my baby girl. She has found herself and has been acting so much more like our bug since the moment we got home. I can't even begin to tell you how happy and elated this has made us. Vacation was nice, but it was so stressful and involved a lot of changes for my toddler. Although she was visiting her family, they are also people she doesn't know. Justin and I didn't really take this into consideration prior to the trip, so I think that had a lot to do with the changes we saw in her while in New York.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am SO excited for my OB appointment on Thursday. I can't wait to see how far along I'm measuring, and go over some of the details of being 38 weeks pregnant. It's crazy to think that at this time with Ava bug, I literally only had 8 days until I met her. I'm anxious to see if I'll make it to my due date with Olivia.
Happy or moody most of the time: Since being home, I have been a happy camper. Aside from having a cold, I'm so in the baby mood. Justin and I assembled and put the car seat in on Saturday, and it feels so surreal seeing two Chicco seats when I turn around. 9 months flew by so much quicker in this pregnancy then I ever imagined. Now it's just a waiting game. We've lined up a babysitter for Ava bug, my hospital bag is almost ready, and Justin's company is tracking as well. So yes, I'm a happy mama.
♥- Leilani
How far Along: 38 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Size of baby: An estimated 7 pounds (the size of a pumpkin)
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Charlie horse leg cramps (OUCH, OUCH), breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and Braxton hicks.
Best moment this week: The best moment this week was actually just making it home safely, getting a bill of health for the baby in my womb after flying on an airplane so late in pregnancy, and finally getting the house prepped for baby. Yes, bassinets are a go, organizing Olivia's hospital bag is a go, and getting her baby clothes washed is a go!
Movement: Whenever I lay still, she is moving. I love it so, so much.
Food Cravings: Fish sticks (surprisingly, my second round in this pregnancy). Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: I do miss not waking up in the middle of the night because of severe Charlie horses in both my legs. I also miss being able to get out of bed myself without the assistance of my husband. Overall, I miss my body feeling good, even while pregnant.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: Thankful for this man for always. He has been pretty great with allowing me to tear our house apart to get things done for Baby O. We still haven't taken down our Christmas decorations because of all the chaos, and I wonder if that's driving him nuts at all? He's allowed me to be bossy with all my glory and sass at 38 weeks pregnant, and that has been appreciated more than he knows. He's offered up foot rubs and leg rubs for the Charlie horse pains, he's been making almost every single meal since we've been home, and I really appreciate being able to sleep, even when Ava is LIVE and ready to play.
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: Charlie horse leg cramps (OUCH, OUCH), breast tenderness, pelvic straining, itchy belly, and Braxton hicks.
Best moment this week: The best moment this week was actually just making it home safely, getting a bill of health for the baby in my womb after flying on an airplane so late in pregnancy, and finally getting the house prepped for baby. Yes, bassinets are a go, organizing Olivia's hospital bag is a go, and getting her baby clothes washed is a go!
Movement: Whenever I lay still, she is moving. I love it so, so much.
Food Cravings: Fish sticks (surprisingly, my second round in this pregnancy). Cranberry juice.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: I do miss not waking up in the middle of the night because of severe Charlie horses in both my legs. I also miss being able to get out of bed myself without the assistance of my husband. Overall, I miss my body feeling good, even while pregnant.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck). BUT I do get interrupted if a Charlie horse comes about in the middle of the night.
Justin: Thankful for this man for always. He has been pretty great with allowing me to tear our house apart to get things done for Baby O. We still haven't taken down our Christmas decorations because of all the chaos, and I wonder if that's driving him nuts at all? He's allowed me to be bossy with all my glory and sass at 38 weeks pregnant, and that has been appreciated more than he knows. He's offered up foot rubs and leg rubs for the Charlie horse pains, he's been making almost every single meal since we've been home, and I really appreciate being able to sleep, even when Ava is LIVE and ready to play.
Ava: Ahh, my baby girl. She has found herself and has been acting so much more like our bug since the moment we got home. I can't even begin to tell you how happy and elated this has made us. Vacation was nice, but it was so stressful and involved a lot of changes for my toddler. Although she was visiting her family, they are also people she doesn't know. Justin and I didn't really take this into consideration prior to the trip, so I think that had a lot to do with the changes we saw in her while in New York.
What I am looking forward to this week: I am SO excited for my OB appointment on Thursday. I can't wait to see how far along I'm measuring, and go over some of the details of being 38 weeks pregnant. It's crazy to think that at this time with Ava bug, I literally only had 8 days until I met her. I'm anxious to see if I'll make it to my due date with Olivia.
Happy or moody most of the time: Since being home, I have been a happy camper. Aside from having a cold, I'm so in the baby mood. Justin and I assembled and put the car seat in on Saturday, and it feels so surreal seeing two Chicco seats when I turn around. 9 months flew by so much quicker in this pregnancy then I ever imagined. Now it's just a waiting game. We've lined up a babysitter for Ava bug, my hospital bag is almost ready, and Justin's company is tracking as well. So yes, I'm a happy mama.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
This is crunch time. I woke up this morning and all I could think about were all the things we have left to do in preparation for our baby girl. Since we have been on vacation the past week, I've kind of just enjoyed being around family, celebrating the holidays, and capturing all the special moments Ava has been afforded with her family in New York. Now, I'm kind of freaking. The car seat back home isn't installed, baby clothes have not been washed and prepped, our hospital bags have not been prepared.. Granted, I know we have 3 weeks or so left until Olivia arrives, but with Ava bug... I had all of these things ready so much earlier. In less stressful more exciting news, Livy bean has definitely dropped. I can feel her lower in my pelvis (tons of pressure/pain here), and when she balls up in a corner of my uterus.. you can definitely tell what side her little bum is on. She's been kicking up a storm in this New York 28 degree weather, and I've truly enjoyed being able to spend almost two whole weeks with my in-laws during my pregnancy. Surprisingly, I haven't slowed down one bit. I've been active, I've been on the move, but I have a feeling that's going to change in the next week or so.
How far Along: 37 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Ava: Ava is golden. Aside from coming down with a 24 hour stomach bug, she has been consistently the same about almost everything. I've noticed since being in New York her toddler attitude has been a little more intense. Saying, "No!" has come about a lot more. She has SO many eyes focused on her and so many people trying to engage with her. Between flying and spending so much time at airports, from spending over four hours in vehicles for traveling to see family members, and finding her schedule on East Coast time... I'm still EXTREMELY proud of her. She's been helpful, loving her cousin, and consistently loving on mama's baby bump.
What I am looking forward to this week: As sad as I am about leaving New York, I am excited to be back home and settled. I can't wait to set up the remainders on our list of things to do for Olivia. I can't wait to just relax, sit back, and allow labor to come about on it's own time at home.
Happy or moody most of the time: I have been pretty happy, but I have also been ultra emotional. I've been completely overstimulated with the holidays and being around so much of my husband's family. I am so thankful for each and everyone of them. I've also had my mom in the back of my mind and the thoughts of not spending the holiday season with her. Knowing her illness has taken major declines this year is always in the back of my mind. Her birthday month is also my due date month, and I have made it such a huge priority in this pregnancy to try and focus on the good.
♥- Leilani
How far Along: 37 Weeks
Nicknames for baby: Livy Bean, Olivia
Size of baby: An estimated 6.5 pounds (the size of a watermelon)
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: SO MUCH PELVIC PAIN, Breast tenderness, tons of Braxton hicks
Best moment this week: Having my in-laws include Olivia in our holidays. She received her blue bird ornament from Great Grandma Sandy, she received take-me-home outfits from Papa Clough and Grandma Chi-Chi, and such cute Vera Bradley clothes from Great Aunt Holly.
Movement: She has her days where she moves a ton more than others. I've noticed that the rolling is definitely consistent and correlates when I'm not running around. She balls up in a corner of my uterus and moves after daddy gives her kisses or rubs on my belly.
Food Cravings: Anything my in-laws cook. I have been SPOILED this past week.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: Truthfully, I miss being able to get out of bed without pelvic pain. I've recently been experiencing such sensitivity when getting out of bed, walking too much, etc. Apparently it's my pelvic bones and ligaments spreading for labor. The relaxin hormone must be working exceptionally well because some days I am in some serious discomforts.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck).
Justin: With the help of family, not every obligation to help has been solely on his shoulders. That has been a really, really good thing for us. Back home my family members easily live about 30 minutes to an hour away (depending on traffic) and I usually don't ask for help because I know Justin would be home to help a lot sooner than they would. During block leave we've literally always been surrounded with helping hands. My mother and father in-law have been preparing the best meals all throughout the day, my sister-in-law and her spouse have been such a huge help with entertaining Ava bug and helping me haul things up the stairs, and I really don't have to do much because people have constantly offered. This has given Justin a lot of free time to do some of the things he wants to do and just relax. He needed this.
Gender: It's a girl!
Symptoms: SO MUCH PELVIC PAIN, Breast tenderness, tons of Braxton hicks
Best moment this week: Having my in-laws include Olivia in our holidays. She received her blue bird ornament from Great Grandma Sandy, she received take-me-home outfits from Papa Clough and Grandma Chi-Chi, and such cute Vera Bradley clothes from Great Aunt Holly.
Movement: She has her days where she moves a ton more than others. I've noticed that the rolling is definitely consistent and correlates when I'm not running around. She balls up in a corner of my uterus and moves after daddy gives her kisses or rubs on my belly.
Food Cravings: Anything my in-laws cook. I have been SPOILED this past week.
Food Aversions: WE ARE FINALLY IN THE CLEAR HERE.
What I Miss: Truthfully, I miss being able to get out of bed without pelvic pain. I've recently been experiencing such sensitivity when getting out of bed, walking too much, etc. Apparently it's my pelvic bones and ligaments spreading for labor. The relaxin hormone must be working exceptionally well because some days I am in some serious discomforts.
Sleep: I get extremely good sleep, once I am out, I am out! Except, I started drooling (yuck).
Justin: With the help of family, not every obligation to help has been solely on his shoulders. That has been a really, really good thing for us. Back home my family members easily live about 30 minutes to an hour away (depending on traffic) and I usually don't ask for help because I know Justin would be home to help a lot sooner than they would. During block leave we've literally always been surrounded with helping hands. My mother and father in-law have been preparing the best meals all throughout the day, my sister-in-law and her spouse have been such a huge help with entertaining Ava bug and helping me haul things up the stairs, and I really don't have to do much because people have constantly offered. This has given Justin a lot of free time to do some of the things he wants to do and just relax. He needed this.
Ava: Ava is golden. Aside from coming down with a 24 hour stomach bug, she has been consistently the same about almost everything. I've noticed since being in New York her toddler attitude has been a little more intense. Saying, "No!" has come about a lot more. She has SO many eyes focused on her and so many people trying to engage with her. Between flying and spending so much time at airports, from spending over four hours in vehicles for traveling to see family members, and finding her schedule on East Coast time... I'm still EXTREMELY proud of her. She's been helpful, loving her cousin, and consistently loving on mama's baby bump.
What I am looking forward to this week: As sad as I am about leaving New York, I am excited to be back home and settled. I can't wait to set up the remainders on our list of things to do for Olivia. I can't wait to just relax, sit back, and allow labor to come about on it's own time at home.
Happy or moody most of the time: I have been pretty happy, but I have also been ultra emotional. I've been completely overstimulated with the holidays and being around so much of my husband's family. I am so thankful for each and everyone of them. I've also had my mom in the back of my mind and the thoughts of not spending the holiday season with her. Knowing her illness has taken major declines this year is always in the back of my mind. Her birthday month is also my due date month, and I have made it such a huge priority in this pregnancy to try and focus on the good.
♥- Leilani
Subscribe to:
Posts
(
Atom
)