Jackson Robert is the newest member of the Noeske clan!

The long awaited post is finally here.... HE has arrived! (20 of you were right...)

It all started Wednesday 16th at 0500 woke up with contractions very mild.. had them all day long. Did some last minute errand running, made 2 pans of lasagna and 2 coffee cakes. By dinner time contractions were getting a little more frequent and had a little more umph to them... Went to bed about 10ish- Nick fell asleep and I of course couldn't sleep--- too much running through my mind and then of course the contractions! Well by about 0100-0130 I woke Nick up asking him to hold my hand.. We did this for about another hour.. contractions were about 4 min apart at this time- started texting Kymm our doula.. at about 0230 they were 3-4 min; We got up and finished packing the bag and got ready to head to the hosptial..

We got there about 0345-0400-- In triage I was 1.5cm (was about 1 cm a week ago) with a bulging bag of water. We were admitted my doc came in at about 0630 and broke my water. Then the waiting game began. I don't rememeber a whole lot.. I had my eyes closed for 99% of the day! They checked me about 1030 and I made it to 5 cm, by 1:30 I was 6.5 cm, and I think about this time we realized that he was still face up- so went for a walk.. that was a little harder than I thought it would have been! Now I don't have all the time details... but a low dose of Pitocin was started because I got stuck at about 7 and was making slow progress. Got really tired about 3:30-4 and got the most amazing drug Stadol-- it took the edge off and I got to "sleep" in between contractions and Kymm and Nick both got a break too. Did a lot of chair and toliet sitting to help getting things moving-- aparently since he was face up there was a section of my cervix that had a small "lip"-- so that is why it took me a few hours to get to 8-9. Doc didn't want me pushing him out face up and wreck my cervix.. so by this time we had some decisions to make... I did NOT want to have pitocin, epidural or a c-section.. clearly by this time.. the pitocin was running.. talked with the doc at about 7:30 and she said that we needed to increase the pitocin and wanted to start an epidural- more for medical neccessity than anything else..(need me to relax the muscles). Well by this time I am exhausted and have no idea what to do... I just want to be done. So the pitocin got amped up and we waited for the anesthiologist to get in. I was not a happy camper during that wait. The pitocin kicked in and the contractions were at least 1 min apart.. Cried for more Stadol and my lovely nurse agreed! That was amazing... more relaxed and finally had my eyes open for longer than 2 min. Got the epidural-- apparently I didn't even move- even during the contraction when he was putting it in! Got myself all numbed up and was a happy camper... well lil mr wasn't at all happy with this new change... about 8:30- my doc brought in another OB for a second opinon about my face up babe and and uncooperating cervix... Dr Taylor is my new hero!!! He checked me out... still the same. but he had me do a little pushing... babe TURNED and the little lip DISAPPEARED!!!!! He said the magical words-- she's good to go!!!! and during this time which I was oblivious to what else was going on in the room-- they were clearing out some of the baby stuff and preping for a c-section!  Luckily that was not required. We got the bed torn apart.. Kymm took one leg, Nick took my other leg and the pushing began!!! Up until that point I was wishing the contractions to go away-- but when it was time to push with them they couldn't come fast enough!! I couldn't feel them at all unless my hands were on my tummy.. so we went with it. 25 min later and about 5-6 contractions - out popped a baby! It was amazing.. I watched a lot of it from the mirror and was practically sitting after he came out.. I looked at the babe and yelled "oh my god it's a BOY!" Nick was so enamored by the whole process and the umbilical cord he didn't even pay attention to the parts ;) Of course the tears started flowing.. I finally did it.. HE was out at 9:39 pm Thursday the17th!!!!!

Jackson Robert 8#11oz; 20 1/2in

It has been an amazing week... I can't believe we have been home a whole week already and he is growing so fast already!!! My hormones are a mess right now... Christmas was great... we had everyone over to our house on the EVE-- of course he was the man of the hour. Christmas Day we went and saw my mom and some other family at her house and then my step mom and the other ish's.
Nights take on a new meaning now.. we are trying to sleep as much as we can.. it's hard for me to sleep during the day... granted I can't and am not supposed to be doing a whole lot.. but with the holidays... that wasn't happening... and of course I am paying for it the last few days... a little sore down there!
Nick has been home- he doesn't go back til the 11th of January and it is a major help-- He is LOVING being a father-- and is sooo adorable with lil man! The dogs of course had no idea what to think at first... they have settled down a little now.. they snuggle a lot together on the floor by the couch now.
Tuesday we went to the docs for Jax's follow-up; his circ site healed up nicely already, his weight was the same as when we left the hospital 8#3oz. We go again in January.
I can't stop loving him and of course taking pictures!!! He is perfect. We are so blessed and happy. I don't want him to grow up and Nick can't wait for him to be a toddler already!

He is such a smiley lil guy already!

Our first family picture.

Our cute christmas present

Momma and her lil guy.

Til next time... I have to go find some kleenex ;)

39 weeks... 6 days to go.. or more or less........

How far along? 39 weeks and 1 day


Total weight gain/loss?only gained 1 pound this week- phew!! I am in the required range and that is all that matters right?!?!

Maternity cloths? Yes, and I HATE my pants!!! I can't wait to be done with all that.. and of course the shirts aren't long enough at this stage... you would think they would know?!?!

Stretch marks? yeah :( it will be interesting to see what happens after... it is hard to tell right now because I am so pale in the belly and you can see lots of veins...

Sleep? It has been the worst this past week... up almost every 2 hours.. peeing.. and thinking I am leaking all over the place..

Best moment last week? Knowing that things are changing down there!! and sadly too that my last of work was Thursday... I just can't do it anymore...
Movement? Slowing down. Poor thing is running out of room because its a lot of rolling type movements, or a knee/elbow/ankle sticking out rather that fierce movement.

Food cravings? Cranberry juice/berry is fading.. otherwise... nothing too much..

Gender? Still don't know... had a dream that I found out it was a boy...

Labor signs? I would like to think so... lots of contractions.. but nothing steady or progressive.. dilated to 1cm as of Friday... still waiting to see other outward signs that things are moving along... but nothing so far.

Belly button in/out? it's a little out.. about even with my belly for the most part now..

What I miss? Normal clothes.. my right hand not constantly numb :(

What I am looking forward to? Meeting my baby and getting rid of the carpal tunnel!

Milestones? Dilating!!!! Getting christmas stuff done.. still a little wrapping to do.. washing baby clothes and blankets!.

I can't believe that it is almost time!! It is CRAZY!!!!Things have definitly been busy around here... We have a bassinet now for our room and will leave the pack n play up downstairs.. now just have to get our room cleaned to get it up there.. Still haven't officially packed "THE BAG" I have a pile of clothes out.. 
I am officially on maternity leave as of Friday... I was supposed to work this weekend and the next 2 days.. but my Right hand has been in various stages of numbness thanks to carpal tunnel... and of course we do computer charting.. which makes it worse.. so I made the decision to take 11 weeks now.. so this baby better come SOON! I am glad I did as well because the commute to/from work has been HORENDOUS the last few days because of all the snow left on the roads.. now we don't have to worry about me going into labor in mad town now :)

Everyone is getting excited and we just can't wait!!!!!!!!!

                                                       38 weeks...                

                                               39 weeks....                                     

37 weeks!

There it is in all it's glory!!!

How am I feeling? For the most part.. ok... Have carpal tunnel now in the Right hand... makes some things a little hard to do... my inner right thigh I pulled a muscle I am sure.. so it is even harder to get up now.. hands and feet are pretty constantly swollen... but other than that.. can't complain ;)

Milestones: Full term baby!!! woohoo! we are in the teens in the countdown.. so that is exciting!!!

Cravings: Cranberries (ie cranberry sauce.. out of the can of course!!) and CARBS!
Aversions: Chicken when I cook it at home....

What do I miss: I still miss my freaking Amaretto's/sours.. :( Getting up without grunting!

What am I looking forward to? Doc appointment on Thursday.. let's see if these Braxton Hicks are really preparing anything!!!!

Weight gain: um of course....

Signs of labor: Just a lot of crazy Braxton's ... other than that... just waiting... everything was closed up tight last week!

What am I doing to help labor along? Working... walking... (as much as I can anyway) I WILL be scrubbing the kitchen floor within the next few days... it is HORRID! Will have to look into some other suggestions...
 
In other news... we have outside christmas lights for the first time! YEAH! So proud of Nick.. he did an amazing job.. the pic doesn't look so hot... but you get the idea... we (fingers crossed) will be getting a tree soon and we can start working on that... I just don't know where we are going to put the baby stuff we have where the tree goes!
Off tomorrow so will get the house picked up and get the inside decorations out!! SO excited!!!

36 weeks and still going...

~ Babycenter~


Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.
At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position.

Have been feeling alright.. have a few days off until Thanksgiving and then start another 4 day stretch! Joints are really sore, ankles and hands still swelling... B/p's are a little above what I have been but she isn't too concerned at this point. Had a Md's appointment last week and she did the Group B Strep test and also a quick cervical check.. as far as the check went- high, thick and closed ;) HB was still in the 140-150 range.... Went today for my weekly check again... B/P is still about the same... 110's/high 60's (i had been 80-90's/60-70's) she gave me the lovely news that I am GBS +... so I get the pleasure of antibiotics when we get to the hospital! Baby is still head down, she guesstimates about 6.5#'s and HB base was 152 and then went into the 140's so still no tell tale sign from that ;). Having a LOT of braxton hicks since sunday... they are weird!!! they last for a bit and go away.. so will just keep my eye on those too!

Worked on the nursery yesterday.. got the rest of the curtains today- for the closet.. will have to get out and do some shopping to finish it up :) spend some of our gift certificates!!! I love shopping when I don't have to pay!!

I think that is all for now!

Briggs Noeske | A Dog Named Christmas

Briggs Noeske | A Dog Named Christmas

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33/34 week update

So it has been a little bit.... first up 33 weeks brought us Halloween Night :)

I had our friend baby shower--(thank you ladies!!!) and low and behold a belly dancer was born that night ;) All the girls helped Henna paint my belly- it was awesome!!!! I won 1st place at one of our favorite bars ;)

Here is Nick and I

Here is the official 33 week picture

Nick and I celebrated our 2nd-2nd Anniversary on 11/3 (the day we got re-married and had our party;) We both worked all day- He had darts that night and I stayed home snuggled on the couch catching up on tv shows :) It was perfect!
34 weeks....
11/6 was a MD's appointment.. nothing too exciting.. Heartbeat is still 140's - 150's at that time baby was head down-- more towards my right side... but now has flipped and flopped all over... so I have NO clue what is where now! haha!
Having more swelling... fingers and feet are almost constantly swollen now.. Been wearing the lovely compression stockings which definitly help while working... I can feel my poor feet stretching out now :( I already had WIDE feet I can't imagine what I will end up with!!! Otherwise... the usual back and hips hurt- the chiro helps.. but unless I go almost everyday... the muscles just can't keep everything in place.. Been getting a massage every other week.. which helps too.. but I am getting really tired of having to have them on my side.. can't wait until I can get a REAL massage!!! ;) It seems I am working a lot... All my days seem to be clumped together... but at least they are 8 hour shifts for the most part!
Until Thanksgiving week.. when I have 4 12's in a row... :( We maybe having a baby earlier rather than later!!!! We shall see!

How far along: 35 weeks today.
Total weight gain- yeah I don't wanna talk about that-- and I forgot to get on the scale this am.

Maternity clothes: 80%- pants 100% still have a bunch of shirts... scrubs are getting a lot harder now!

Stretch marks: Nope- not yet.. that I can see!

Sleep: Still going strong... getting up later in the morning now for my pee time..

Best moment last week: Hubby rubbing my feet and calf's after I got home from work Thursday night :) Watching the baby breathing! it's kinda weird!!  And Halloween the week before!
Movement: Oh yes

Food cravings: right now-- carbs and chocolate....

Gender: still unknown to me... but I have my hunches.. and sources ;)

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out: still fighting the good innie fight!!! but it is about 1/2 out now :)

What I miss: Walking without having my hands swelling up, getting up without help or having to figure out the best way up!

What I am looking forward to:hopefully we will be meeting with our doula again SOON! Md appointment on the 20th-- getting the rest of the nursery put together...
 
I didn't get any pictures last saturday for official 34 weeks... so here is 34 week 5 day pictures-- of course this was after work.. man I look tired!
 

There is definitly some sort of melon in there!! hahah! (34 cantaloupe 35 weeks is a honeydew ;)

til next week ;)
 

32 weeks!

The boys thought it was quite funny of me taking a picture of myself ;)

I HATE that this is blurry too!!

Here is what Baby Center says our "girl" is up to :)

By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb.

Things are going well.. going every 2 weeks now for doctors appointments... Heartbeat is in the 140's still and baby is a mover!!! Still loving most minutes of it!!! Belly button is still in!!!! Still having the right side "rib/muscle" pain... so sitting gets a little annoying!! Working on nursery slowly but surely... put stuff away from the first shower... I am a little nervous taking things out of the packages... will get some curtains up in the next few weeks! and get more things set up :)  

end of the 29th week...

29 week belly shot

How far along: 29 weeks and 6 days!

Total weight gain/loss: up 27..hmmm

Maternity clothes: 99%

Stretch marks: No...thank god.

Sleep: Still going strong... getting up later in the morning now fo my pee time..

Best moment last week: Shopping!!!! Car seat, changing pad, + covers and blankets and boppy oh my! oh and a new winter coat, sweater, shirt and of course bra's for me :) thank you momma!! ;)

Movement: Oh yes- there are numerous attempts to escape the womb from my belly button!

Food cravings: right now-- I want anything... nothins specific...
Gender: still unknown to me... but I have my hunches.. and sources ;)

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out: still fighting the good innie fight!!!

What I miss: Walking without huffing and puffing or being passed while trying to walk faster!

What I am looking forward to: getting the room together! fingers crossed that I have a nice u/s tech today and they let me get a peek of the baby too ;) Going to the doc every 2 weeks now ;)

Milestones: seriously making it to 30 weeks.... I can't believe it!!!!!

 

So the rest of the story.........

go in today for my check-up-- baby is good... heartbeat 140's still... moving like crazy!

Me on the otherhand... I have had this "pain" for about the last 2 months.. it is on my right side just under the boob... it was tolerable until about the last 1-2 weeks... it was constantly sore and occasionally would get sharp... well the last few days- it's been worse.. and I haven't done anything different (well except for getting rid of the underwires, and trying to get my butt up/off the couch or bed a different way).

So doc thinks it might be my gallbladder...

 

so I get to head to the hospital about 3 for an u/s and some blood work... and of course I had a freaking piece of cranberry bread before I left-- that is why I have to wait alllll day now.. and think of not eating anything!! (it could be that it is just rib/muscle issue-- but I don't really feel the baby up there at all and the Left side.. is totally normal... so this is the easiest to rule out the fastest...)

but anywho... so that is where that is.... will keep myself busy with laundry and nursery stuff and watching grey's from last night!

Oh yeah and there was a Monday Night Football game ;)

The good and the bad of the last few weeks...

Here is the bestest (yes i said it) cake in the world! Baby shower sat 9/19- Love the lil turtles!

Introducing Jasper James- our friends baby born Friday 9/18- Nick is practicing!!

my awesome belly at 28 weeks... yes it was just a few minutes ago after returning from a 12 hour shift... it's getting bigger!!!

Well where to start........... It has been a little while since the last update... we shall start with Baby news...

Went to the docs for my appointment on 9/11- had to do the 1 hour glucose screening... found out Sunday in the grocery store-- happened to run into my doc!-- that I FAILED!!! (I was 147 and the cut off was 140) Had to schedule the 3 hour testing later in the week. So Wed 9/16 I head in to the docs bright and early at 0800-- get poked, drink 10 ounces of a warm cola glucose drink, wait 1 hour- get poked again, wait 1 more hour, get poked again, then wait 1 more hour and then get poked for the last time at 1100! Luckily I brought a good book and my cell phone ;) Sitting in a waiting room chair is VERY uncomfortable for that long!!! Anywho... found out later that night that I passed with flying colors!!! (76,133 (190),135 (165),118 (145)) in case anyone wants the numbers... Belly was measuring 1 week ahead.. but we will see what happens over the next couple weeks... Heard the heartbeat right away.. poor thing had the hiccups! freaked me out- Murmur was the first thing that popped into my head! Of course it was 140's-150's-- right in the gender gray area...Next appointment not til 10/9 then I get to go every 2 weeks after that..

Been feeling well.. lots of big baby moving now... Nick feels it a lot more.. I think it is starting to set in!!!

9/19/09.... a very bittersweet day.... Family baby shower scheduled for 2 pm.. The house is amazing! We have been busting our assess off for this! The ceiling hole is fixed and drywalled, hallway painted, banister and hand railing installed, new lighting and of course PAINT! The whole house was dusted and cleaned!

Got up that morning... started getting breakfast ready for the man and I waiting to hear from Candy-- she was heading down for the shower- (Hi MOM!) Got the phone call about 0930-- but didn't get the news I expected at all.... My brother Brad was killed in a car accident earlier that morning.... He was heading home at about 1230 am was 2 blocks from his apartment; he was speeding (40-50mph- in a 25) and hit a tree without wearing his seat belt.. still uncertain as to how or why it happened... flight for life was called and he was taken to Froedert where they figured out he had a tear in his Aorta... went to surgery and ........... He was awake the entire time we found out.. not in much pain but was bleeding out none the less...

I haven't had a death this close to me in a long time... it has been a horrible roller coaster and I can't wait to get off... took my 2 days of work off... helped out getting everything done that has to get done... spending time with family-- the most important part...-- Funeral was on Wed 9/23 -- we had a small private service and then open visitation - man he had a lot of friends!! It was a great and very sad to have to see some old friends under these circumstances.... We were surrounded by great family the entire time... I know we couldn't have gotten through it without them! I found out during this week that Nick told Brad what we were having... I love the fact that he knew... he would have been a great uncle... Now he will be their guardian angel.. It still doesn't seem real. He was only 27.... We survived the toughest part... (I hope!) Holidays will be hard... but we will have a joyous reason to celebrate as a new life enters the world...

I still went on with the shower... I am glad I did... I got to turn my brain off for a little while.. I appreciate all the work my mom and Mindy did in putting it together and especially under the new circumstances... We have a great family and lots of amazing friends! We got some great gifts-- can't wait to start putting things away and getting the nursery together! The pack and play is already up and running! (thanks Sarah!)granted it is sitting in the dining room.. but not toooo much longer and it will be in use!!

Right now the baby is playing kickball with my stomach.. I wish "it" would stop!!It still feels really weird to me all this movement inside!

well I think I have officially rambled on enough... working in the am and I really need to get to bed... but I realllly needed to get this out to....

Thank you to all for the hugs, thoughts and prayers during the last week... It means the world to me to have such an awesome (HUGE) family and friends... I love you all...

PLEASE buckle up ALL the time!

24 weeks! (and then some...)

Today... when the heck did this happen?!
My lovely work look-- it's my favorite-- represents both girl and boy ;)

How far along: 24 weeks and 4 days!

Total weight gain/loss: holding steady at the moment...

Maternity clothes: working with the staples I have... Work pants and t-shirts are becoming a pain!!-- still and I realllly need to get new bras!!

Stretch marks: No- but I think they are coming.. my belly is BIG--

Sleep: about the same- up once a night at least!

Best moment last week: getting to 23 weeks.. and heaven forbid if labor should start this early something could be done!

Movement: Yeah!! freaking me out at times though- feels like he is having a seizure sometimes! Definitely stretching out a bit more--

Food cravings: I reallly want chocolate and sweet things right now!

Gender: still thinking boy parts-I keep telling myself more often now that it could be a girl.

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out: In, but shrinking!!! and HURTS!

What I miss: playing volleyball :( tourney was on saturday.. granted I was nice and snuggie warm while they were out there getting all wet and sandy!!

What I am looking forward to: Windows are coming the 11th, MD's appointment the 11th-- Jolene having her baby!!!

What Babycenter has to say:

Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

23 WEEKS!

Allie and I at State Fair- riding the skyglider--her first time for both
the new bed.. blooming :) you can see a little white hibiscus in the back
Nekked belly picture!!! I have no idea why it is blurry....

New dresser in the baby room!!!

Clothed 23 week belly-- not sure why I don't have a happy face on.

Total weight gain/loss: I think it is more than it should be... :(

Maternity clothes: working with the staples I have... the outfits that I have on in the pictures are pre preg capris- and and a misses top :)

Stretch marks: No- but I think they are coming.. my belly is BIG--

Sleep: about the same- up once a night at least! Having weird nightmares again!

Best moment last week: feeling movement still! getting the registry stuff done.

Movement: YUP!! I LOVE IT!

Food cravings: nothing specific really-same old...

Gender: still thinking boy parts-but of course the other half know and now I am scared it will be a girl!

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out: In, but shrinking!!!see nekked picture!

What I miss: we talked about drinking this week (out for friday fish fry... I really wanted a strawberry daiq or ameretto sour...

What I am looking forward to:

the dresser is in the room... the crib needs to go up and get set up.. putting things in order :)

BABY CENTER:

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

20 week update

How far along: 20 weeks!

Total weight gain/loss: I think it is more than it should be... :(

Maternity clothes: working with the staples I have... Work pants and t-shirts are becoming a pain!!

Stretch marks: No- but I think they are coming.. my belly is BIG-- I have a little bit of belly rash going on right now... I am hoping it is just dry skin!

Sleep: about the same- up once a night at least! Having weird dreams!

Best moment last week: feeling movement!!

Movement: see above!! :)

Food cravings: nothing specific really-still really like sub sandwiches!

Gender: still thinking boy parts-but of course the other half knows!!

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out: In, but shrinking!!!

What I miss: nothing really this week...

What I am looking forward to: shopping!! Started the registry on Monday with Nick-- get to go back and add all the fun stuff!!

What Babycenter has to say:
How your baby's growing:Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in his bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery).

18/19 weeks with pictures :)

There he/she is!! We got up up bright and early this am for our ultrasound appointment :) Still went in with the "we aren't finding out" told the lady this too-- she spent a good while getting some GREAT pics (sorry my camera and phone aren't doing it justice!) Well of course Nick is bouncing out of his chair- he couldn't take the suspense anymore and he CAVED!!! The RN grabbed a post it and wrote down the sex and handed it to him... he had his poker face on! I have NO idea what we are having but HE knows!!! I still am about 80% thinking boy and about 20% leaning towards girl... Baby is weighing in at 11 ounces!!! (from all the measurements that they took!) My weight gain has slowed down too-- phew!

crib and dresser set :)

Went shopping with the mother in law on Thursday... the above is what we get to pick up in August when we get the room cleaned out and bed removed!! sooo excited :)

She also got me a few other things ;) We first started off with lunch at PF CHANG's- which of course was delish! BUT the best part--- all you Idol watcher's out there-- Jamar was our waiter!!! (Danny Gokey's friend for those that need a memory jog ;) it was awesome-- he was sooo nice and sweet!! and... look for him when Idol returns... he auditioned in Chicago a few weeks ago!!!! woohooo!!

What else... we went up north this past weekend... it was great.. a little cabin with the mother, a brother, a niece, a nephew and a husband :) had some boat issues-- yea the NEW (to us) boat motor quit in the middle of one of the lakes!!! Luckily we got towed back by some pretty cool people! We went fishing- the kids learned to kayak which was fun to watch :) It was too short of a time.. so next year we will see what happens!

In other baby news.. I think I am finally feeling the little bugger move-- I could tell during the ultrasound and then later tonight at work.. I was just sitting there and felt a little punch/kick/head butt! and I think he is attacking me again right now!! :) Can't wait!!! Will be 19 weeks tomorrow-- Where has the time gone?!?!? Still working on the doula thing... just called to get the directory- so that should help a little.. google doesn't really now everything!!!

well here is what BABYCENTER has to say about this upcoming week :)

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

17 weeks down 22 to go!

How far along: 17 weeks!
Total weight gain/loss: I have not been wanting to weigh myself- but the doc's scale was fun to look at :(
Maternity clothes: not so much lately-- have to go and get some new pants-- so far flowy shirts are working :)
Stretch marks: Nope
Sleep: about the same- up once a night at least! Having weird dreams!
Best moment last week: hmmm realizing that there is really only 4 months to go!! AND go to the doc's on Friday and hearing "his" heartbeat RIGHT away!! :)
Movement: Too soon-- getting closer though!!
Food cravings: nothing specific really-still really like sub sandwiches!
Gender: still thinking boy parts-Doc even agrees with me!
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out: In, still the size of a cereal bowl!
What I miss: still wanting to go to noah's ark or six flags :( having alcohol cravings again...:(
What I am looking forward to: shopping!!

BABYCENTER: (she week)
Your baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.

Had a busy weekend.. Birthdays and Brewer's game... got some fishing in! Will get some new pictures posted when I get home.. Work day 1 out of 4 :)

week 16!

How far along: 16 weeks!
Total weight gain/loss: totally forgot to weigh myself this morning!!
Maternity clothes: not so much lately-- have to go and get some new pants-- so far flowy shirts are working :)
Stretch marks: Nope- just peeling post sunburn!
Sleep: about the same- up once a night...
Best moment last week: nothing too exciting happened-- walking into Children's Place and NOT buying anything :)
Movement: Too soon-- getting closer though!!
Food cravings: nothing specific really
Gender: still thinking boy parts
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out: In, still the size of a cereal bowl!
What I miss: still wanting to go to noah's ark or six flags :(
What I am looking forward to: My OB appt. on FRIDAY!!

BABYCENTER:
Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

*yum avacado--mmm!!! I have definitly felt my heart pumping a little more! weird!
I will take another picture come monday or we will see how I feel when I get home...

15 weeks +

Gracie playing with the sprinkler!

Sunday boat trip- our new friend Tressa (from Boston), Mike and Nick

Sunday boat trip--Kristin and me! you can KINDA see my belly!

Friday night Brewer's game- Shawn woohooing that we won!

US at the game :) BEOFRE I turned white as a ghost and needed to stop emergently at Oscar's!

HOW FAR ALONG: 15 weeks and 4 days today... weekend got away from me!

Babycenter says I have a 2 1/2 ounce APPLE in there now!! Lil sticky is 4 inches long.. can you imagine Nick ever being that little?!?! Should start to feel movement by next week!!! Can't wait to get to this next ultrasound!!! And NO we aren't going to find out what parts sticky has... But you better believe that I WILL be looking!! :)

There really isn't tooo much else to report that hasn't been said the last few weeks... I think I got some sort of bug or food poisioning on Friday.. cuz that was the first time I was actually sick so far!! oh it was an intersting night! ;) Firing on all cylinders now... Had a great Sunday-- went out on the neighbors boat with friends-- met up with an old friend out on the lake :) It was cool- until later that night when I noticed how lobster red I had become!!! oops!!! It is getting better now.. actually was able to sleep last night!!!

Other than that.. it's been either work or home for me! Have to work all this coming weekend :( Friday, Sat AND Sun! can only blame myself :(

That is alright because I just got the ok to get my doula!! woo hooo!!! Well that is if she will take me on... as a crazy client!! I am hoping that she will help tame the crazy when the time comes!!!

Nothing else too exciting this week... been plastered to facebook when I am not working! haha! Which is like now... laundry to fold, floors to vaccuum... spare room that needs to be cleaned out for lil one... a computer room that needs HELP! the usual...

mmmm a zesty Lemon! Week 14!

SHAWN WORKING IN THE FRONT GARDEN

well I don't know why the freaking paste feature isn't working here.... but anyhow...

HOW FAR ALONG: 14 weeks! (and 3 technically)

TOTAL WEIGHT GAIN/LOSS: shockingly I actually lost 2 pounds this past week- I definitly gained it back from the Melting Pot!

STRETCH MARKS: still aint' got 'em

SLEEP: still the same... getting up at 0100-0200 depending

BEST MOMENT LAST WEEK: not working so much- being able to veg out! a little!

MOVEMENT: nope not yet

FOOD CRAVINGS: nothing too perticular.. but when I want it I want it!

GENDER: still thinking it's a he

BELLY BUTTON: I ate my cerealy out of it this morning... (not really) it's getting wider but still and innie!

WHAT I MISS: I keep hearing six flag commercials... no rollercoasters for me this year :(

WHAT I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO: more shopping soon!! july so we can see the md and baby!

I have been feeling pretty good... a few random twinges and pains... nothing horrible.. no real morning sickeness or anything like that... but there are definilty things that sound good and things that make me wanna.. you know... belly is getting bigger! actually have photo documentation of this now!

Been busy working in the yard... the side bed is done.. now if this 90+ heat wave doesn't kill everything off we shall be ok!!! Had some help from Shawn (nephew)!! Hubby laid the mulch for me yesterday :)

We had a great weekend- we went to the Brookfield farmer's market and got the BEST tamales and salsa EVER! heading back for sure this weekend!!! Sunday was Dad's day-- Lil Sticky gave daddy some books that he can read to "him" in a few months and an awesome Brewer's shirt ;) We took my dad out to the Melting Pot.. and it was oooohhhhh soooooo fabulous.. just like we were expecting!! Then back to work on Monday... it has been a ZOOOOO for the both of us there! I am working second shift the rest of this week... and of course I was up with Nick at 0545 and then up for real by 0730! It is going to be a LOOONG night!

So BABYCENTER facts on Lil Sticky:

He is 1 1/2 ounces and 3 1/2 inches long... which puts him at about a lemon ;) Kidney's are working now... moving a lot of facial muscles-- alright on to the pictures!!

WEEK 13 BELLY SHOT

WEEK 14 BELLY SHOT (Nick took this one!)

I think I look smaller now.. but I think it was just the shirt vs the tank top...

We have a shrimp!! 13 weeks!

How far along:13 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: +10
Maternity clothes: alternating my 2 pairs of pants when I am not in my scrubs!
Stretch marks: No, and hopefully never.
Sleep: still getting up at least once about 12:30-0100 to pee and then depending if the dogs are in bed.
Best moment last week: showing off the belly I guess..
Movement: Still too early.
Food cravings: hmm nothing out of the ordinary- I have been eating a lot of rice kispies and frosted flakes-together!
Gender: I think it's a he :) still
Labor Signs: Heck NO!
Belly Button in or out: In- it's gotten wider though!
What I miss: nothing really this past week...
What I am looking forward to: more shopping!!
Milestones: Went to the OB friday-- got to hear the heartbeat for all of 2 seconds before he bounced away again! Going out shopping with mom in law-- got to see some really cute stuff!!

Babycenter:(it's a she week apparently...)
Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce. As you start your second trimester, most of your baby's critical development will be completed and your odds of miscarriage drop considerably.

Have been feeling pretty well.. have an occasional wave of nausea and such still-- depends on what I am eating... having headache issues the last few days.. otherwise been working...
Nick is working on the front flower bed with a friend today so I can't wait to see the damages when I get home....

Here I come week #12!

How far along:12 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: +9

Maternity clothes: I bought a pair of jeans and a few tops at Target again last week-I think I will wear the jeans today-- it's chilly here again!!

Stretch marks: No, and hopefully never.

Sleep: still getting up at least once about 12:30-0100 to pee and then depending if the dogs are in bed again when something has fallen asleep!

Best moment last week: hmmm... got to tell more people..

Movement: Still too early.

Food cravings: I am really wanting seafood- especially after my awesome volcano roll!

Gender: I think it's a he :) still

Labor Signs: Heck NO!

Belly Button in or out: In- it's gotten wider though!

What I miss: I have really wanted an Amarretto sour lately..... :( wanted one real bad thursday at volleyball!

What I am looking forward to: Going to see my OB Friday!!!!

Milestones: is going down a pant size a milestone ? ;)

From Babycenter- We now have a LIME!! :)
How your baby's growing:The most dramatic development this week: reflexes.
Your baby's fingers will soon begin to open and close, his toes will curl, his eye muscles will clench, and his mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod your abdomen, your baby will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel it. His intestines, which have grown so fast that they protrude into the umbilical cord, will start to move into his abdominal cavity about now, and his kidneys will begin excreting urine into his bladder.
Meanwhile, nerve cells are multiplying rapidly, and in your baby's brain, synapses are forming furiously. His face looks unquestionably human: His eyes have moved from the sides to the front of his head, and his ears are right where they should be. From crown to rump, your baby-to-be is just over 2 inches long (about the size of a lime) and weighs half an ounce.

week #10!!!

How far along:10 weeks and 1 day ;)

Total weight gain/loss: +7 #'s since my last recorded pre preg weight

Maternity clothes: I bought 1 pair of capris from target for $6.50- they fit a little funny in the thighs but my belly has room to breath and doesn't make a bigger muffin top!

Stretch marks: No, and hopefully never.

Sleep: have been more tired lately but working 12's so that takes a lot out... usually up a few times during the night because my feet or legs fell asleep... this is only gonna get worse too :(

Best moment last week: Seeing our HUGE baby!

Movement: Still too early.

Food cravings: hmmm I am liking everything... I see or think it I want it... I was really bummed when I didn't have my lemonade iced tea this morning... but I will survive!

Gender: I think it's a he :)

Labor Signs: Heck NO!

Belly Button in or out: In

What I miss: I have really wanted an Amarretto sour lately..... :(

What I am looking forward to: Going to see my OB in a few weeks.

Milestones: seeing how big he has gotten in 2.5 weeks!!

Here is what babycenter says he is up to this week :)

Although he's barely the size of a kumquat — a little over an inch or so long, crown to bottom — and weighs less than a quarter of an ounce, your baby now has completed the most critical portion of his development. This is the beginning of the so-called fetal period, a time when the tissues and organs in his body rapidly grow and mature. If you could take a peek inside your womb, you'd spot minute details, like tiny nails forming on fingers and toes (no more webbing) and peach-fuzz hair beginning to grow on tender skin.

Ultrasound #2

We now have a gummy bear ;) The picture doesn't really do it justice at all.... but there is a big head a big ole belly and cute little stumpy arms and legs :)

Everything looked good heartbeat was there... this was a quick down and dirty appointment- apparently they forgot that I have my own OB so we did the standard testing stuff-- pap, culture, pee test and such and he did an ultrasound (obviously) just to make sure everything was going well- and then I was out the door- I haven't called my OB yet- I have my annual scheduled for June sometime- so I just have to call and get that switched to a prenatal. Still feeling pretty good- tired... stuffed my face and then layed on the couch and fell asleep for almost 2 hours until mom called and woke me up! and now of course my tummy isn't feeling the greatest... It always feels gross after I nap... gonna go in search of some food... made all the phone calls today so everyone is happy.... back to work tomorrow through monday-- yeah for a holiday weekend! :)

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend... work shouldn't be too horrendous! till next time!

oh and ps I think Adam was totally robbed last night on idol!!! now on to so you think you can dance :)

9 weeks and counting...

Here is what lil sticky is up to this week....

How your baby's growing:Your new resident is nearly an inch long — about the size of a grape — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce. She's starting to look more and more human. Her essential body parts are accounted for, though they'll go through plenty of fine-tuning in the coming months. Other changes abound: Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers, and the valves start to form — as do her tiny teeth. The embryonic "tail" is completely gone. Your baby's organs, muscles, and nerves are kicking into gear. The external sex organs are there but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks. Her eyes are fully formed, but her eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. She has tiny earlobes, and her mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The placenta is developed enough now to take over most of the critical job of producing hormones. Now that your baby's basic physiology is in place, she's poised for rapid weight gain.

Still feeling pretty good... have some moments of "ugh"ness but pretty much just feeling fat... Next doctors appointment is on Thursday... anxiously awaiting....

Other than that-- we were busy in the yard this weekend which was awesome but we both have been paying for it dearly since.... the side yard bed is done- just have to plant a few more plants I picked up yesterday. Nick dug out the burn pit so now we have a nice huge pile of stuff behind the shed. But it looks beautiful! Our next weekend off together isn't until the begining of June and then we are tackling the front side bed- that if full of little white rocks and a bunch of weeds... My vision is to lay a small square of patio blocks and put a little bistro set out there and have it surrounded by a bunch of climbing stuff :) we will take what we can get-- if we can get the rocks out and get dirt and mulch down I will be a happy camper :)

I should probably get back to work....

sooo sleepy.....

I am stuck at work-- again-- of course by my own scheduling... I ate a huge lunch-chinese- it was delish!- and now I am sooooo tired! Didn't sleep very well last night- got home shortly after 9 finished watching the Brewers kick the Cubbies butt! and then off to bed.. but of course the thunderstorms rolled in... and there were some HUGE booms and BRIGHT light-which made it even harder to fall asleep.... and then of course was up at 1230 to go to pee... and then 0525 to get to work....

and now I should do some work... feeling well today-- I am sure now that I said that something will pop up!

oh yeah and today marks 8 weeks! I can't believe it!- it feels like it is taking forever though!! Lil sticky is about the size of a raspberry(or a kidney bean depending on the site you look at) now -
from baby center:
New this week: Webbed fingers and toes are poking out from your baby's hands and feet, his eyelids practically cover his eyes, breathing tubes extend from his throat to the branches of his developing lungs, and his "tail" is just about gone. In his brain, nerve cells are branching out to connect with one another, forming primitive neural pathways.

Better....

Well I have been feeling better.. I am definitly more tired now! Still getting a few waves through out the day.. but nothing last too long- mornings are the worse- nothing sounds or tastes very good- tried cinnamon & spice oatmeal... didn't get very far with that- yogurt going better... Sleeping has been a feat though- I can't get comfortable and when I do it's not long before I have to move because some appandage fell asleep!and then of course the bathroom breaks- so far just once a night and then usually right away in the morning...

We have been enjoying our beautiful weather this weekend! Did some yardwork and chores on saturday then off to a wedding reception.. Sunday we went to the Brewer game with another couple and did some tailgating! We had some pretty good seats - they were in the sun almost 100% of the time- so it was a tad warm- but we heard people in the shade were freezing!! And of course no sunscreen! So my face is a little painful!! But we WON so that is all that matters!!

Home today then back to work tomorrow and then thursday through sunday- it's gonna be a long week! Both dogs have managed to start my day off well- Briggs chewed up one of my slippers during the early morning hours... and then started heaving during breakfast... got him out in time- then Gracie just started a few minutes ago... who knew that pine needles aren't easily digested?! Crazy dogs.

blah

Lil embryo...mommies not feeling the greatest..... saltine dinner again!!

Was doing really well all day until about 7pm and it hit like a ton of bricks....luckily or maybe unlucky.. I am at work which is keeping me busy....

Ultrasound day!!

Nick was able to get out of his meeting and come to the doc's- so I was one happy momma!!
Of course it took forever to get to bed the night before... I swear it was like christmas! but it didn't take long for the alarm to go off! We were up and at em...

Got to the office and we got the "we will look at all the boreing stuff and THEN the baby" ok fine whatever.... so she heads in.. and BAM there it was!!! and I could see the heartbeating!!! Then of course she moves on to all my other various parts... nothing extra hanging around where it shouldn't be and lil guy is hanging out where he is supposed to :)

So we had back to the money shot... she takes some measurements--- her calculations prior to u/s were that I was 6wks5days- I thought I was6weeks2days... but the baby is measuring 6weeks3days! but anywho.... heartbeat was great 118! got some great pictures- which of course proud poppa took one to work that morning :)

Still feeling "ok"... getting some waves of nausea.. but it usually will go away once I eat something.. which I should go and get some breakfast before this thing eats me!!

The reason I call "it" him or lil guy- is because in the first seconds that I saw the blob- my gut said boy.... we shall see... we are still not 100% sure if aren't going to find out... we have a few more weeks to decide :)

what's next... they took a gallon of blood and will see me next May 21st for my "official" 1st prenatal vist- hopefully with u/s and THEN they should release me to my OB... oh happy days!!!

How dare I not post our first picture!!! (sorry it's crappy quality)