Henry: 2 months

So, Henry turned 2 months this past Monday, believe it or not!  That "believe it or not" is aimed mainly at me because I still can't believe it's already been 8 weeks since we brought our little man into the world.  Like I said in my last post about growing up, time flies! I feel like he is different every single day, with new sounds, new movements, and a little more personality shining through.  It's so fun to see all of these milestones and changes happening right before our eyes, and it's both sad and exciting to watch it happen so quickly. Oh, and above you'll see the first two of his monthly photo series, I forgot to post his 1 month in December so today you get two. :)

This month Henry:

has started to reactively smile
will coo and make vowel noises
seems to mimic sounds that we make
is so much more vocal
is starting to realize what his hands can do

Our little guy has been sleeping through the night from about 6 weeks on, and for the past two weeks every night has been really great.  He'll go to sleep at 8pm, wake up anywhere between 2 and 3, then go back to sleep until about 8am.  My friends have told me that I shouldn't share this amazing fact with anyone, because the moment I do he will be up every hour on the hour! haha! So let's hope his good sleeping continues...at least until teething begins.  I do feel very lucky though that he is doing so well in this department, and it even seems like he is on a schedule of his own doing.  I figure I had such a difficult birth that this was the universe's way of saying, here you go!  Here's something a little easier for you. ;)

A few notes on everyday things: Henry hated tummy time until yesterday, when I sent a "help me!" out into Twitter-land, and got back so many great suggestions.  Most of the ones that I got had to do with keeping him distracted while he was on his stomach, so I got out a mirror and wa-la!  It was just the things I needed to keep him happy.  My friend Anita also recommended a little Baby Einstein Take-Along Tunes toy that worked for her, so I think we'll get that too.  As far as pacifiers, he only uses his NUK one at night, but not always.  He's starting to self-soothe with his hand a little and seems to prefer that to a pacifier.

As far as size, Henry is currently in 3 month clothing and is really long. His next doctor's appointment is next week and I'm so curious to see how much he's grown!  It has just been such a fun experience being a Mom. I went from not knowing what the heck I was doing to now, feeling a lot more on top of things and feeling like I am doing a great job.  I was so overwhelmed during that first month, and although I wouldn't classify being a Mom as easy by any means, I'd definitely say it's much easier than it was. As every day passes I learn more about what works for Henry and what doesn't.  I know how to rock him just so, so he will fall right asleep.  I know that after he nurses for a long time he likes a little break, and then he always wants just a little more.  His cries have distinct meanings, almost a language of their own.  I feel like as these two months have gone by being a Mom has become more and more natural.  It's true what they say about the maternal instinct, and it's neat to feel like I can do this after feeling kind of scared in the beginning. Being is a Mom is what I've always wanted to be, and it is the best feeling in the entire world to feel like I'm a good one, and becoming a better one everyday.

Happy 2 months, Henry!

My top newborn must-haves, V.2

It's been awhile since I posted my first newborn must-haves, and it's funny how much Henry has changed over the past two months.  I took this video two days ago and I was so happy that he actually smiled for the camera!  I feel like he will do it all day long, but the second I pull out the Flip Cam or my camera the smile gets put away.  I'm so excited that I finally captured one.

But, back to the list!  Now that we've had our little guy here for two months, I feel like I've learned a LOT more about what works for us, and what doesn't.  So, here's my next group of items (numbers 1-7 can be located here).

8) Summer Infant Rest Assured Sleeper

 

We started out with Henry sleeping exclusively in his pack 'n play, right next to our bed.  At around two weeks Henry started to become very fussy, but only at night.  The only way he would sleep for more than an hour or two was if he slept on my chest, or next me.  I know that a lot of parents co-sleep, and even though this worked SO WELL for us, I was terrified of something happening.  I looked around online, and when I came across this wonderful product I was sold.  It goes right in your bed, and you get to reap all of the benefits of co-sleeping, without the fear of rolling over, blankets suffocating your baby, etc.  Now again, I know that some parents choose to have their baby sleep right next to them, cuddled up, and I WISH I could do this, but I am just too much of a worry wart.  So this sleeper was a great option.  The walls are mesh, so even if Henry pushes his face into the side he is able to breath, and it keeps air circulating.  It also has a metal frame to protect the baby from being rolled onto.  From the first night we got it, Henry has slept so, so well.  He's a lot closer than being in the pack 'n play, which makes middle of the night nursing easier, and overall this just works for us.  So, if you're tight on space, or even tight on money and can't afford a larger sleeper (like a pack 'n play) this would be a great option!  If you're like me and are paranoid but still want to have your baby close by, this is also wonderful.  And, as an added bonus, it folds up to be super small, so it's great for traveling.  We go down to Phoenix a lot and this has been a lifesaver.  Henry loves it, and we love it too!  This is absolutely at the top of my must-haves, right under the Snuza.

9) California Baby products

Henry has sensitive skin, like his mama, so we have to be careful what we use.  The very best product we've tried thus far has been from the California Baby line- the Super Sensitive Shampoo and Bodywash.  You guys, it smells SO GOOD. All caps because if you were next to me I'd be yelling that. ;)  But really, it's amazing.  It's free of toxins, dyes, sulfates, you name it.  Buy it here.

And on the subject of baby products- we recently tried the Baby Balm courtesy of Mountain Girl Soap and Sundries.  This was sent to us by the company to try, and I wouldn't ever recommend it unless we truly liked it...which we definitely do!  It's an all-natural, vegan, and the ingredients are simple and nourishing- no petroleum or synthetics. Awesome.

10) activity mat

I wasn't sure if we would wait awhile to get one of these, but my sister got Henry one for Christmas and he loves it so much.  It's a nice little change of pace for him during the day, and he really loves to look up at all of the fun jungle animals.  Recently he's begun to try and grab the various objects too! We also do tummy time on the mat, so it's kind of double duty.

11) Boppy

In my last list, I was all about the Brest Friend Pillow.   Now that Henry is a bit bigger I've moved into using the Boppy a lot more.  I think the Brest Friend was imperative for me in the beginning- the Boppy just wouldn't have worked post c-section, but now that I am really comfortable with breast feeding, the Boppy is just easier to grab and use (there aren't any clips or straps), and more comfortable too.  When we have our next baby I will still use the Brest Friend again in the beginning, but the Boppy has been my pillow of choice lately.  Plus, I often use it to prop Henry up on the couch or during tummy time so it's more convenient for me to have around.

12) this one isn't an item...but I think a must-have would be the idea of really being gentle on yourself, especially if you are a first-time Mom.  You will be a crazy mess of emotions after you deliver.  I cried at the drop of a hat and I went from being super happy to being sad about all sorts of things- Henry was already growing too fast (keep in mind he was two days old), I didn't think I was a good Mom, the list went on.  But after about three or four days I felt like my "normal" self, and I didn't feel weepy and overly-emotional.  Perhaps it was a touch of postpartum, or maybe it was just my hormone levels regulating, but be prepared to feel a rush of all sorts of things.  Perhaps yours will manifest like mine, or go your own way, but I'm sure most new Moms feel this.  Be easy on yourself. It's normal to feel like you don't know what to do, how to do it, or how on Earth you are going to manage to keep on doing it.  In the beginning there were times when I was getting up every hour, not getting any rest, and at times felt pretty hopeless that I was even doing a good job.  Mix in extreme lack of sleep, recovery from a major surgery in some cases, and trying to do something you've never done before, and it can be a really tough combination.  Just remember that it does get better, and you are not alone in feeling a little lost, or a little down. Just be sure to talk to someone about it.  And remember how amazing you are...and what an amazing thing you've accomplished! :)

So, this is my second list of newborn must-haves.  As Henry grows and as we try new and different products and items I will be sharing them along the way!  Thanks for reading and have the best morning.

35 week update!

It's been quite some time since I've made a proper pregnancy update post, so I thought 35 weeks would be as good of a time as ever. I have honestly been feeling GREAT, and surprisingly I've been enjoying this part of the pregnancy more than any other. I think it has to do with a couple of things: one, the light is definitely there at the end of the tunnel which is so exciting. And two, I haven't had those common pregnancy maladies like sleeping issues or back pain. At this point I am feeling pretty lucky to be doing as well as I am. My doctor attributes it to my continuous exercise regime and eating well, so it really makes me feel happy to hear that my diligence to staying healthy has paid off. Now I just can't wait to actually meet the little guy, hold him, hug him and kiss him.

Here are some photos from this evening:

35 week photo


cute detailing on my dress/shirt (this is not a maternity top, so it's more a dress when I'm not pregnant!)

Hank and I had a wonderful, wonderful date night and then purchased the last of the items we needed for Henry, including the most adorable framed print for one of his walls. I can't wait to share photos once we're all set up. This next week my parents are coming up for a visit and staying for a few days, which we are super excited about. We're going to be painting the nursery and getting everything done as far as setting up and decorating. Although we feel like we're set with baby gear, we're really trying to stick to only the necessities as of right now and then get the extra things as we go, if needed. I just keep reminding myself that when my Mom had me she didn't need any of the fancy things they have nowadays and we were just fine. And that's not to say that Hank and I are choosing to go some sort of minimalistic route, but it's easy to get caught up in the material stuff and we're trying hard not to do that!

I thought I would also do a little questionnaire:

How far along? 35 weeks

Total weight gain/loss? So far I've gained a little less than 30 pounds, although I have no idea where it is because I don't feel like I'm THAT much bigger outside of my stomach.

Maternity clothes? None outside of my Forever 21 maternity jeans (love them) and a couple of maternity tee shirts with ruched sides I bought for the gym/workouts.

Stretch marks? absolutely none (yet!).

Sleep? I sleep very well (usually 8+ hours a night) but wake up to go to the bathroom numerous times. I have no problem falling back asleep though so I am counting my blessings on that one.

Best moment last week? my baby shower!

Movement? He moves all of the time. The doc assured me he is head down so I'm assuming that's his foot I'm feeling up there in my ribs. He's usually kicking to the right side too.

Food cravings? fresh fruit always. And that's about it!

Gender? boy!

Labor signs? none yet

Belly button in/out? totally in. I don't think it will ever pop out because it's not even flattened out yet.

What I miss: wearing all of my dresses, RUNNING! lifting heavy weights at the gym, and eating lunch meat.

What I am looking forward to: meeting our son and the whole birthing process, I'm incredibly curious. Oh, and eating a huge sandwich. And sushi. And running.

Also, here's the fruit/veggie comparison for this week- I'm at the end of this 8th month and moving into the 9th so I'm between this and a WATERMELON. Yes, a watermelon. Holy shit.

Baby’s senses are continuing to improve -- when light peeks in through your (extremely) stretched belly, those tiny eyelids and irises blink and dilate. And, baby can now recognize and react to simple songs… time to start practicing your lullabies! Growth (at least inside your womb) is starting to slow, and you may notice baby descend into your pelvis at the end of this month.

A lot of people have also been asking about our "birth plan." I thought I would share a couple of the hopes and goals we have for our experience. I am definitely going for a natural birth, with no epidural or medication. It's a big goal of mine (I don't take ANY medication or even medicine when I have a headache), so medicating isn't really something I like to do. Also, needles scare me (yes, says the girl with multiple tattoos), and the thought of needles anywhere near my spine make me want to vomit. Epidurals scare me more than birth actually. However, I am being open minded and let's say I get in there and my mind totally changes, I am open to that. I'm pretty much open to the whole experience. I know what my goal is, but if at any time things change I am going to try and be okay with that. Who knows, I could end up having a c-section (which is not what I would want), but if that's the way it has to go, that's the way it goes. My main concern is birthing a healthy baby and I don't care how it has to happen as long as the way it happens is the best, healthiest option for Henry and me. So we'll see. I'll be giving birth in our new birthing center which is pretty much amazing and much more resort than hospital. Our birthing class took us on a tour of the new facilities (opened last spring) and they are really great. I know it sounds crazy but I am EXCITED to give birth. I want to see what it's like and have the whole experience. I'm aware that it's going to be quite the painful time but I'm kind of pumped for it and looking forward to the whole thing. Did anyone else feel like this beforehand? I feel a little crazy for thinking this way but I'm sure someone else out there has felt the same!

So, 35 weeks! I can't believe I'm winding down this entire journey and it's crazy to say that next month H. will be here. I have about 17 more working days too, which is another shocking number that crept up on me. Stay at home mama life, here I come! If I've learned anything from this pregnancy it is this: time flies. It feels like only yesterday this was us:



And now, here we are, heading into the final month of pregnancy.
Amazing.

Little boys are made of...

Okay. So at first when I found out we were having a boy a slight, tiny, mini little disappointment went through me ONLY because I adore all things girly, baby girl clothing, girl toys, etc. All along I wanted a boy first, but when this secret wish actually came true and my family and I hightailed it over to Target to buy Baby H's first items of boy clothing, I may or may not have lingered in the little girl's section for too long. AND I may or may not have shed a tiny tear for the mini-watermelon bathing suit that wouldn't work for our little guy, the adorable ruffly yellow dress that caught my eye, or the extremely girly pink rainboots that would never be (at least not yet!). This disappointment lasted for just a moment, and it was completely silly, and quickly dissipated. Now I couldn't be more excited about all of the absolutely darling little boy options my friends and I have found for Henry to wear, and I always have a great time shopping for him even though he isn't even here yet!

Just today H.'s Auntie Amber (visit her blog here- http://amberjoyh.blogspot.com/) sent over a link to what might just be my most favorite selection of little boy clothing I've ever seen (with the exception of my "favoritest," J. Crew's Crewcuts!) via the wonderful Zara. I just had to share the cuteness with all of you! To see the entire lookbook, visit Zara at this link and take a peek! And also feel free to click the photos to view them in a larger size.


CUTE, huh?! The girl's lookbook is pretty darling too. Have you seen any super adorable little boys clothing lately? If so, feel free to share the link in the comments!

xoxo

Dear Henry,

Dear Henry,

We have a little over two months to go, and like I say all the time, everything in our little world is changing so quickly. Every single day I find myself daydreaming about you, looking at baby stuff, and trying to picture what life is going to be like. It's hard to imagine it all once you're here, but I am certain that it is going to improve in ways I couldn't begin to dream of. The love we feel for you, without really meeting you is so strong that I can't even begin to fathom how it will feel to hold you in my arms for the first time, and have you look up at me with your beautiful baby eyes there in the birthing room. I constantly look through all of the tiny little clothes we've accumulated over the past year, I look at the books we've saved for you, at all of your ultrasound photos, and it still blows my mind to know that the reason for all of these things will soon be here.

In the past week you have been moving so much than ever. Before I could definitely feel you in there, I could feel little flicks and flips, but now as you push out against my stomach, I can almost make out your little hands, and feet (and elbows and knees too!). I can kind of push back gently or rub my belly where you are and you respond by pushing back or moving away. It's the most amazing thing, and completely surreal. We are getting a 3d ultrasound in the next couple of weeks and both your Dad and I are so incredibly excited to see you. I've been watching your ultrasound video I made for you a lot lately and it's hard to believe that it was taken almost three months ago. You've grown so, so much since then and it's going to be wonderful to have another peek at you growing inside my belly.

(readers/friends, here's the video again just in case you missed it the first time)

Henry's ultrasound, 19 weeks from Danielle Hampton on Vimeo.

Yesterday my dear friend Erin, who I'd been sharing this pregnancy with, and who was due exactly two months before me, had her baby boy. His name is Kyler Thomas, and you two will definitely be friends! Erin and I have been close friends since college at NAU when we lived in the same dorm, and we've been through everything in life together over the past ten years- from Pi Phi and NAU, to boyfriends and breakups, engagements and marriages, to crazy weekends and girls' trips all over the place. It's so neat that we both became pregnant around the same time with little boys and over the past many months we've constantly laughed at how shocked our 18-year old selves would have been if we could have taken a glimpse into the future. I imagine how we would have reacted at that young age, living in the Sechrist dorms as freshmen in college, not a care in the world- if only we could have known that 10 years later we'd be pregnant with you and Kyler at the same time! Seriously amazing. You guys are going to have a great time growing up together, and I'm so excited for all to come.

Here's a photo of the two of us, me 5 months pregnant and Auntie Erin 7 months. We have so many photos of us, from 2000 and beyond, and it's going to be so fun taking photos of you and baby K together.



When Erin sent us the photo of her new son, it kind of hit your Dad and me- WE are going to have that, we are going to be going through that...we are going to be holding YOU sooner than soon. To put ourselves in those shoes was a really strange realization, because although we know you're in there growing and growing, seeing little Kyler kind of shocked us for a moment and we got more excited than ever.

In these next couple of months I'm looking forward to that excitement building and building. Time has flown by so fast and I can't even imagine how quickly these short little weeks will go by. I want to cherish all of this, because like your Dad reminded me this weekend, it will never be this way again. I'm working hard on getting everything together for you; I'm making you a special book filled with all the wonderful people in your life so you can learn everyone's faces and names. I'm sewing curtains for your room and making you some bibs. Once we are in the new house at the beginning of next month we will be painting up your new room, putting together furniture, and getting everything ready for your homecoming. We can't wait for you to be here. You already bring so much sunshine into our lives, that I can't even imagine what it will be like when you finally arrive, like a bright, bright sun rising on a brand new day.

I love you always,
Your Mom

30 week update!

30 weeks...WHOA! I really cannot believe that I am almost 8 months pregnant and 10 short weeks away from meeting our son! It's kind of all been sinking in a lot more lately, and I'm not sure if it's from the little clock in my head that is constantly tick tick ticking down to the big day, or from all the other changes that are going on. We start our birthing class in about a week, and I also have a breastfeeding class to attend in the beginning of October. The new house closes in just a few weeks, so we've been trying to figure out paint colors for the nursery (luckily every other thing about the house is move in ready, including the overall paint color!), and we still have to go and pick out our crib, dresser, changing table, etc- not to mention every other piece of furniture for the house too! haha. Slowly but surely is our motto though. There's tons to do but I'm feeling good about everything and totally relaxed. Right now we are still trying to decide on whether or not we are going to do cloth or regular diapers. Originally I really wanted to do the bumGenius 4.0s, but now I'm not sure if we will go that route. We're going to start with disposables and then I'll decide if we want to take the plunge or not. I'd say I'm on the fence still but leaning towards no, but we will see! We're all registered at Babies R Us- if you're curious about our registry feel free to check it out, we're registry #45679494.

Here's the adorable invitation to my baby shower that I got in the mail a couple of days ago!
And I am loving the card my Mom included:

The picture is kind of weird but it says-

Just one last request, and we hope it's not hard,
Please bring Henry a book, in place of a card.
By signing your book we will remember and share,
Your special gift even when you're not there!

I seriously love this and think it's adorable that he will have tons of books to start his library rather than cards we would end up throwing away! Plus, as he gets older it will be really fun to be able to read the inscriptions and tell him about all of the wonderful people in his life.

Speaking of wonderful people, this past week we've received some of the absolutely sweetest, most thoughtful gifts from my blog friends and readers. I am so blown away with the amount of kindness and sweetness I've encountered, and I cannot tell all of you enough times thank you, thank you, thank you! It feels like we get a little package or letter everyday, and I just want all of you to know how much we appreciate all of your generosity and all of the time you've put into making baby Henry such beautiful and wonderful things!

from Susannah, over at http://susannahbean.blogspot.com/


from Emily, over at uff da! designs and http://poppymilkface.wordpress.com/:


from Sara, over at http://www.etsy.com/shop/joneshome


and from Becky, over at http://bthrifty.blogspot.com/
See? Amazing, amazing things. Thank you again so very much sweet girls. You've made me smile so big...and maybe get a little teary too! ;)

My belly is still growing but I'm still feeling really great physically. A lot of my friends who are also pregnant haven't had such a smooth ride, and I almost feel bad for typing that I feel wonderful! But really, I feel as good as I did before I was pregnant, with the occasional lower belly cramping or swollen ankles. The only other things that I get annoyed with are my chubby (okay, fat) face and my huge chest. Both pretty irksome for obvious reasons. I seriously go through my closet with longing at all the dresses I can't wear. I probably have about 5 things I just repeat over and over because I refuse to spend money on anything "temporary." But it works. The most beneficial items of clothing I've bought have been my maternity capri pants and my maternity pencil skirt for work, and I wear them every other day or so and absolutely love how comfortable they are. I've also been so thankful for my friend Anita (seriously go check out her baby blog for her daughter Lola at lolabirdie.com) because she has been SUCH a source of honest pregnancy talk. She's the best, along with a lot of my other mama friends too. You know who you are! Thank you.

Here are my 30 weeks belly photos:



check out the uneven line!




He is also the size of a head of cabbage this week!

You may feel as if you have been pregnant forever at this point. It might be hard to imagine being pregnant for another ten weeks, but your baby still has a lot of growing and developing to do! By this time, your baby's crown-to-rump length is a little over 10.8 inches and the total length of your baby is about 17 inches! Your baby weighs about 3 pounds now. Your uterus can be felt about 4 inches above your bellybutton. Your uterus, baby, placenta and the amount of fluid will get larger over the next ten weeks.

As far as weight gain, I stopped paying attention but I feel like I am doing a-okay. I have ten weeks left and my doc said that I'm doing very well and should end on a fabulous note if I keep up my normal eating and exercising. It doesn't really concern me about gaining because I feel like I've been in a good spot so far, but it's nice to know that because at this point I feel like it won't be very hard to lose the weight. I can definitely see it in my arms and legs...and FACE of course hahah, but overall I don't think it will be too bad, especially since I am planning on breastfeeding. At first it was hard for me to accept all of these changes, but the more pregnant I get the more I really don't care anymore, there are so many more important things to spend my time thinking about, and everything my body is doing is exactly what it should to make a nice place for Henry to grow, and then to sustain him once he is born! :)

Overall we are just getting more and more excited. It's scary and amazing and shocking and wonderful all at the same time to know that in a little over two months he will be here! I'm so excited for him to meet so many amazing people- all of his grandparents, his aunties, his wonderful uncles...our friends...it's just beyond exhilarating. It's so fun to be able to look back at this blog as such a great record of all of this, and I feel lucky to have all of you along for the ride!

I hope you have a beautiful Saturday!
xoxo

ps. I'd love it if you would click the banner below!

Baby us

Hank's Mom gave me some photos of Hank when he was a baby, and I fell in love with what an adorable little guy he was. I thought I'd grab a couple of me from my Mom, and share a few of both of us here. It's so fun to imagine what H. will look like, based on what we looked like as little ones! I think it's safe to say he'll have light hair, but really, you never know!

Here's Hank:







And here's me!

Don't mind the naked baby-ness ;)

that's me on the left, and my sister Lauren on the right! I wish I still had that dress.






No

22 Week Update

I'm getting a little more tired by the day, and as I make my way through this 2nd trimester I'm thinking that my energy level is going to begin tapering off a bit. As of now I can go go go day all and not need a nap or anything, which is convenient with all the traveling we've been doing. But I can definitely feel that energy starting to fade a bit. Also- if you didn't notice, I've TOTALLY popped! My straight on belly shots are pretty true to size, and when I posted that last full body photo a couple of days ago, the difference in real life is just as pronounced! It seems like my belly grew overnight. I'd been gaining just a couple of pounds every month but this month I gained 6, which the doctor said is normal. It seemed like a lot but apparently this is a big growth period. I'm trying not to worry about the scale at all and just go with how I feel, but it IS hard to see numbers I've never seen before. The feeling of "oh my gosh" passes within a minute or two but regardless of how much I understand the reason for gaining weight, how wonderful it is to be pregnant, etc...it it still hard to see those numbers for that brief moment. I know it's all for a good cause though, so Henry can grow and be healthy, so it's easy for me to snap back out of any weird thoughts and sad emotions. Typically I just feel weird right around the time of my weigh-in, and then I feel wonderful and back to being super accepting about my changing body.



I also wanted to say THANK YOU! (so, so, so, so, so much. SO MUCH.) to every single one of you for all of your amazing comments and emails regarding my registry questions. I was so blown away by the responses and I read thoroughly through every single comment and I'm still working through the emails (if you haven't gotten a response yet I'm getting there!). I just cannot believe the sheer kindness that comes from every one of you and your eagerness to reach out to me and my family. Some of you wrote novels too and whether your comment/email was long or short, I loved, loved reading them. I gained so much knowledge, and it's been super fun starting our registry. Autumn took me to Buy Buy Baby yesterday to walk around the store with that registry gun, and show me everything she used for her two babies. In the end I decided to actually register with Babies 'R Us because their online selection is far superior to BBB's and most of my far away family and friends (and everyone in Prescott) will be using the online option. I learned a lot though from our trip though, and I think my BRU registry is shaping up nicely with all of yours, Autumn's, and my friend Emily's suggestions.

A couple things we are set on:

1) Cloth diapers! We will be using bumGenius diapers and we couldn't be happier about our choice! (click here to visit their website!) My Mom cloth-diapered both my sister and me and she is very excited we decided to go this way. The diapers are so easy to use, and I'm excited to share our cloth-diapering journey with all of you.

2) Nursery colors! We're going with a gray and white palette, with pops of yellow.

Other than that we're still figuring things out! :)

Here is a short little video from my doctor's appointment today. I absolutely love this sound and could listen to it all day long.



As far as food, I'm still not having too many cravings, outside of my normal taste for fruit! I definitely think I have had more of a sweet tooth though and there have been days where lemon pie has sounded so delicious.





This week our darling Henry is the size of a spaghetti squash! I should also mention that I am shifting over to babycenter.com's fruit/veggie comparisons because thebump.com moves to only monthly updates at this point! So via that website I only have 4 fruits to go...with the last being a watermelon. !!!!!



Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop.

I've also gotten some questions about my normal workout routine while pregnant, so I thought I would address that here. I basically do the same workout I did before, just a lot less intense and lighter weights less frequently. Here's an example of a typical week when I am at home and able to work out everyday:

Monday: 40 minutes elliptical, weights: arms (bi/tri/shoulders)
Tuesday: 60 minutes yoga or pilates
Wednesday: 20 minute walk on treadmill, 20 minute upright bike, weights: legs (squats, lunges, etc.)
Thursday: 60 minute walk outside, weights: chest and back
Friday: 40 minutes elliptical
Saturday: 20 minutes stair stepper, 20 minutes walk on treadmill
Sunday: active rest- do something relaxing and fun like go on a leisurely walk or hike

So basically I work each muscle group once a week, with pilates/yoga adding to that too. I also substitute swimming 20-25 laps on any day I feel like doing that instead. I don't focus on exercising to lose weight obviously but more so just to get my body moving. I put on great music and use the time to decompress, and enjoy myself! Each workout to me is a treat and it's an added bonus that I'm doing something good for Henry.

I should add that this plan would be a LOT for a pregnant woman who isn't used to working out everyday. Pregnancy is not the time to hop into a completely different and/or more intense workout regime! My doctor approved me exercising like this, but did warn me to keep my heart rate under 140 and advised me against lifting heavy weights or doing any exercises on my back. I'm careful to follow all of his guidelines and so far have found that in order to keep my HR under 140 I have to take it pretty easy. I figure that if I continue to eat healthy and stay active I will continue to feel pretty good!

This next week is going to be a busy one, so hopefully I will be able to squeeze in a 23 week update from San Diego Comic Con! Thanks again for stopping by- and happy Friday!

Overwhelmed with registering...

Okay mama friends, I need your help! I have begun the process of trying to figure out what I should be registering for for Henry and I am feeling pretty overwhelmed and quite confused. There are just so many options, and once you pick one thing, it seems like you need another, like infant adapters, car seat adapters, this goes with this, which goes with that...HELP! I have gotten opinions from a few of my friends, but I could use tons more information and recommendations on things to research and check out. I'd love love love your input, and ANY suggestions about all things baby-related! This is the first baby in over 20 years for both of our families, and obviously Hank and my first child. To say I'm clueless is a bit of an understatement, so again, I'd really love any input. Thank you so much in advance, you guys are the best!

1) Where are the best places to register?

2) Best stroller, car seat, travel system (?), carrier, etc!

3) Diapers- we are set on doing cloth but I'm thinking you need to start with disposable. Am I right? I was thinking of doing the Bum Genius system, but let me know if you've tried this and what your thoughts are. As far as disposable, I've heard Pampers Swaddlers but I didn't know if there was an organic brand that was great. Recommendations on both? Or really any info.

4) I'm planning on breast feeding- so breast pumps? Bottles? etc. We will be going the BPA-free route so I was thinking the Born Free ones might be a good choice but any suggestions are great. Also if I do the Born Free, which ones should I register for?

5) Items like high chairs, pack 'n plays, co-sleepers, swings, jumpers, activity mats, all of that jazz. Which are necessary? Which do you recommend?

6) Baby monitors

7) Top 10 items a new Mom MUST have!

I know that's a lot to ask, but even if you have just one recommendation I'd love it! I'm sure I will come up with more questions, but this is a start, and will also be a nice reference for other moms-to-be!

Thank you thank you thank you!

20 week/5 month update

It's hard to believe that I've already been pregnant for 5 months, and even more so, that I am halfway done! Time has seriously flown by, and now that I am finally starting to feel pregnant I am loving it a million times more. I also feel like I actually LOOK pregnant now, and not like I just had too many beers. I think my belly has definitely grown a lot in the past week.





Yesterday was the FIRST time I felt Henry move and it was really, really neat. In the morning I thought I felt something, but I wasn't sure, but then by nighttime I was feeling all sort of "flutters" and at one point during a whole lot of flutters I pushed (gently) on my stomach and he kind of softly flicked my hand! I don't know if that's possible to feel at this point, but I'm pretty sure that's what it was! So awesome. I still am in disbelief that I have this little guy growing inside of me. Every single day it's another realization that I am going to be a Mom in a very short time.



Since our big ultrasound last week when we found the gender, I've kind of been on a baby shopping kick. From advice I've received I've been staying away from newborn sizes (outside of a few onesies) and mainly doing 3, 6, and 9 month clothing. It makes me happy to know my sister will be having babies soon after she gets married in March, so as time goes by we'll be able to share all of our gear and clothing. The main places I've found great baby clothes are H&M, Target, Nordstrom Rack, and Nordstrom. I find myself gravitating more towards simple colors, stripes, and of course the occasional cutesy print. The photo below is a picture I posted to my Twitter of some of my finds from shopping on Monday- the octopus is from my sister!



This week, baby Henry is also the size of a cantaloupe! How did THAT happen?! Last week he was the size of a mango and now he's a melon?! Cantaloupes are pretty big so it's funny to me to think I have a little guy the size of one swimming around in my belly.



This week marks the half way point of your pregnancy. It has been 18 weeks since the date of conception and your baby's crown-to-rump length is 5.6 to 6.4 inches. The fetus weighs about 9 ounces and your belly definitely has an obvious bulge. Your waistline has expanded and is no longer visible. Your uterus has now moved up enough that it is pushing your abdomen outwards. The top of your uterus is even with or just below your navel.

For the remainder of your pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on your lungs, stomach and kidneys. This will make you feel short of breath, the need to urinate more frequently and can cause indigestion. The added pressure on your abdomen can also cause your bellybutton to protrude and cause an `outy` instead of an `inny`. Many pregnant women begin to notice stretch marks around this time as well. Your abdominal muscles are being stretched and pushed apart as your baby grows inside of you.

Your baby's skin begins to thicken this week and will develop four layers. Your baby's sebaceous glands secrete a waxy substance called vernix caseosa. Your baby will be born with this wax and it will look like paste. The vernix caseosa is crucial because it protects the fetus' fragile skin from the continuous immersion in amniotic fluid. Lanugo hairs secure the vernix caseosa in place and it is thick around the eyebrows. Scalp hair and toenails are beginning to form at this point. Hair can also be seen on the upper lip and eyebrows.

This week I also went and picked up a few "maternity" items. I got some maternity leggings and also some comfy t-shirts to wear when I workout. I can make a lot of my regular clothing items work still, but gym attire was presenting a problem because most of my t-shirts would ride up on my little bump and I don't think the YMCA is the place for crop tops. Especially crop tops on pregnant women! So I stocked up on comfy pregnancy friendly gym attire and I couldn't be happier. It's so much easier to exercise when you feel comfortable and confident.

I thought I would end with a little survey of pregnancy questions!

What day did you find out?: March 8th (I think)
How did you feel when you found out?: sat there in disbelief, cried and hugged Hank

Who was with you?: Hank
Who was the first person you told?: my coworker Robyn the same day, then no one else for a week or so
How did they react?: she cried, it was adorable

How did the daddy react?: it was 5am and he was half asleep- he was totally happy and definitely woke up very quickly! haha
When is your due date?: November 18th
How far along are you?: 20 weeks
As far as gender, what did you want?: I honestly didn't care!
What did the daddy want?: He wanted a boy
Do you have a name picked out?: Yes

If so, what is it?: Henry
Is your baby going to be named after someone?: yup, his great-grandpa, grandpa and Daddy!
Where was your baby conceived?: at home, haha
Have you felt the baby move?: yes!
What race will your baby have?: I am Irish, and a mix of other European races, and Hank is a mix of different things including Hispanic
Do you have stretch marks?: no
What was your first symptom?: heightened smell
What religion will the baby know? none

Will your baby have godparents?: yes, even thought we aren't religious. The godmothers are my best friends Autumn and Shirley, and godfather is Jason, Autumn's hubby.
What is the baby's room theme?: white and gray, and maybe yellow? Unsure.
Cravings: fresh fruit all the time

Happy 20 weeks, Henry! I love you :)