Pregnancy-Bryce Anthony
Bump Chalkboard from Chalk Full of Design
How far along? 5 weeks
Total Weight Gain? lost 8
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: pretty good, but better with my half a unisom (and B6) for morning sickness
Best Moment this Week: feeling good enough to actually thing about and be excited about baby. And Nolan’s 4th Birthday!
Miss Anything? lots of caffeine
Movement: no
Food Craving? jalapeno poppers and Mexican
Anything making you queasy or sick? Food–eating.
Bellybutton in our out? in
Wedding Rings on or off? on–actually falling off from the weight loss
Happy or Moody most of the time? happy
Looking forward to? growing baby
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? I am feeling tired and queasy but I think that is baby more than illness.
How far along? 6 weeks
Total Weight Gain? up 2 (from illness weight)
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Nolan hasnt slept….so we haven’t really slept. I take unisom and b6 for morning sickness so I get to sleep well, I just can’t get a full night’s sleep
Best Moment this Week: Just being able to resume normal life.
Miss Anything? lots of caffeine
Movement: no
Food Craving? jalapeno poppers and Mexican
Anything making you queasy or sick? Nothing specific but it will occasionally kick in in the late afternoon
Bellybutton in our out? in but it wants to be out already–I get super bloated after eating and extra water.
Wedding Rings on or off? on–actually fit now
Happy or Moody most of the time? happy
Looking forward to? growing baby
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else?
How far along? 7 weeks
Total Weight Gain? up 3 (from sick weight)
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Nolan hasnt slept….so we haven’t really slept. I take unisom and b6 for morning sickness so I get to sleep well, I just can’t get a full night’s sleep
Best Moment this Week: feeling good enough to actually thing about and be excited about baby.
Miss Anything? lots of caffiene
Movement: no
Food Craving? Taco Bell Steak Nachos
Anything making you queasy or sick? Nothing specific but it will occasionally kick in in the late afternoon
Bellybutton in our out? in
Wedding Rings on or off? on–actually fit
Happy or Moody most of the time? happy
Looking forward to? growing baby, doctor, announcing
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? We told my siblings–we will be spending the next week at the cottage with them so it would be too hard to hide.
How far along? 8 weeks
Total Weight Gain? up 4 (from sick weight)
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Nolan hasnt slept….so we haven’t really slept. I take unisom and b6 for morning sickness so I get to sleep well, I just can’t get a full night’s sleep. Went to bed later than normal (double digits haha) being at the cottage.
Best Moment this Week: feeling good enough to actually thing about and be excited about baby. Being at the cottage for Labor Day and having fun with the family.
Miss Anything? lots of caffiene, White Claw
Movement: no
Food Craving? pickled food. Especially Kevin’s pickled kohlrabi
Anything making you queasy or sick? Nothing specific but it will occasionally kick in in the late afternoon
Bellybutton in our out? in, but thinking of coming out when I get super bloated–which happens after food and water.
Wedding Rings on or off? on–actually fit
Happy or Moody most of the time? happy
Looking forward to? growing baby, doctor, announcing
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? We told many of our close friends and Alex’s siblings.
We went to our first appointment, expected to be at 8 weeks 5 days based on a 28 week cycle. Since my cycle isn’t normal, after the ultrasound and measuring, it was found we are 7 week 5 days. This is a 35 day cycle which is what I consistently had before Nolan so we weren’t to surprised. That explains the negative test we took and why it was positive a few days later (5 days early). The due date has bee moved to April 26–Grandma’s Birthday. I mean, come on! Signs from above, we get it! We know you are intervening and we so so appreciate it! Love you Grandpa Ken and Grandma Anne, thanks for being our guardian angels!
The ultrasound notes indicated a hemorrhage in the uterus. This can be very normal. Since I haven’t had any bleeding, they are not concerned, but since I have negative blood type, they gave me the Rhogam shot in case it is absorbed and to keep baby safe just in case. I will need it again at 28 weeks and then after baby’s born, they will take blood type and if baby’s is opposite, I’ll need it again.
Doctor and the nurse we have been with for all 3 pregnancies are all praying for a normal pregnancy with a normal 13 visit schedule with only 1 more ultrasound! We are praying for a happy healthy pregnancy.
Here we have all 3 initial ultra sounds done between 7 & 10 weeks. Have any gender guesses? You’ll have to wait until April to find out, we aren’t finding out before then!
How far along? 8 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 7 from sick
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: I can never get enough! Nolan has had a good week, but I still feel tired. I sleep like a rock when I do though!
Best Moment this Week: Seeing baby, the heart beat, and knowing if everything is ok! Also, finding out my good friend Amy is expecting a month before us.
Miss Anything? this week I haven’t really.
Movement: no
Food Craving? This week I was pretty good
Anything making you queasy or sick? Empty stomach, Random times in the day
Bellybutton in our out? its in but when I bloat in the evening it already wants to think bout going out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? Mostly happy, but I have my moments
Looking forward to? sharing the news publicly
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? no
How far along? 9 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 7 lbs from sick
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: I can never get enough! Nolan has had a good week, but I still feel tired. I sleep like a rock when I do though!
Best Moment this Week: telling neighbors
Miss Anything? not really
Movement: no
Food Craving? no
Anything making you queasy or sick? empty stomach and even more random times just feel queezy and gag
Bellybutton in our out? its in but when I bloat in the evening it already wants to think bout going out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? mostly happy but things set me off that shouldn’t, and then I apologize.
Looking forward to? photos with Ellie!
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? I have been teaching gymnastics and going to Barre class this whole time. My doctor said I should remain active but not start anything new. I have taught and been in class a while now so I have continued. I do have to say, with being tired, nausea, and such, it is getting harder every week. With gymnastics, we have to clean up every day and picking up is definitely getting harder…but its also when I bloat the most so I have a nice little belly to work around while lifting.
How far along? 10 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 8lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: I wake to go to the bathroom about once a night. Nolan gets me up quite a bit more.
Best Moment this Week: photos going well with Ellie!
Miss Anything? Energy
Movement: no
Food Craving? no
Anything making you queasy or sick? hunger or mornings or even some random times.
Bellybutton in our out? its in but when I bloat in the evening it already wants to think bout going out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? happy
Looking forward to? Pictures with Elaine!
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? no
How far along? 11 weeks
Total Weight Gain?
Stretch Marks?
Sleep:
Best Moment this Week:
Miss Anything? I really wanted the Reds or a White Claw during the packer Brewer Picture in Picture Alex had going.
Movement: I actually thing I might have! I did at this point with Stella!
Food Craving? no
Anything making you queasy or sick? hunger or mornings or even some random times.
Bellybutton in our out? its in but when I bloat in the evening it already wants to think bout going out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? mostly happy but I feel anger coming up faster and the immediately regretting it but its too late I already yelled/made a fool of myself.
Looking forward to? Sharing with everyone today!
Labor Signs? no (I did start having contractions/braxton hicks with Stella at 16 weeks and Nolan at 20 so I wouldn’t be surprised if they start soon)
Anything Else? We feel beyond blessed to have this miracle baby. I am so excited to love and care for this baby and watch it grow! I am terrified for the hormonal emotions when doing Nolan’s 24 EEG next week.
How far along? 12 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 9 lbs from sick, 1 lb pre-sick
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Other than Nolan’s EEG night pretty good.
Best Moment this Week: 2 days after Nolan’s EEG, Alex and I took time to cuddle on the couch, talk, and catch up on shows together. It was relaxing and very nice.
Miss Anything? soooo needed a coffee and lots of caffeine this week.
Movement: no
Food Craving? Caramel Apple from Little Farmer…..Will get one on Sunday finally!
Anything making you queasy or sick? It still randomly pops up but is getting less.
Bellybutton in our out? It is currently in but on its way out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? This week has been rough and has been very hard to find happy but still making an effort to find one happy a day.
Looking forward to? Doctor’s appointment on Monday to hear heartbeat and be reassured all is ok.
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? When we have hard weeks like this one with Nolan it can be hard to think of how we are going to manage all this with one more child, but faith helps us carry through. Watch for Monday’s post.
How far along? 13 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 10 lbs from sick, 3 lbs regular
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: I can’t get enough. I just feel like some days I sit and watch the kids and I cant move my feet. I literally have to will myself to move my legs.
Best Moment this Week: 1) Hearing baby’s heartbeat and baby swim off the doppler twice 2) getting my hair done for the first time since JULY!
Miss Anything? I want to go to the garage fridge to get something to drink. Right now there is nothing alcohol or caffeine free.
Movement: I am pretty sure I felt a barrel roll! It was right after I heard the heartbeat and it was right where we felt the heartbeat.
Food Craving? Caramel apples
Anything making you queasy or sick? still randomly pops up and empty stomach isn’t good…..and too cold of water.
Bellybutton in our out? moving out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I have had a hard time with Autism emotions this week, but generally happy.
Looking forward to? More movement, more growing, and hearing the heartbeat again in 4 weeks.
Labor Signs? no, thank goodness. Wondering if it will start soon since it did with Stella.
Anything Else? Nolan’s MRI is on Tuesday at 5:45am check in. We are bringing Stella as well. Exhaustion, emotion, and anticipation are tough– really trying to be sure to keep my stress as low as I can for baby.
How far along? 14 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 3 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Pretty good besides getting up with Nolan. Those days getting up at 4am with Nolan are getting harder and harder.
Best Moment this Week: Seeing how amazing both kids did at the hospital for the MRI. Because they did so well I wasn’t stressed and I know that is better for baby. Also, it makes me feel like I am doing something right.
Miss Anything? I realllllly wanted beer…and caffeine.
Movement: no
Food Craving? nothing this week
Anything making you queasy or sick? Been pretty good this week, but the morning of the MRI I got very nauseous while playing with Nolan on the floor. I got up and ran to the parent’s lounge, downed a mini ginger ale (so it wouldn’t tease Nolan who couldn’t eat or drink yet). That helped.
Bellybutton in our out? moving on out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? Surprisingly happy.
Looking forward to? Just growing and knowing baby is happy and healthy.
Labor Signs? I had my first braxton hick. My uterus is still so low but it was hard as a rock as well as tightening of the muscles around.
Anything Else? I am starting to move to maternity clothes. My belly is still soft, but when I wear regular clothes it is uncomfortable or gives me the 2 belly look. I realized many of my maternity clothes are work clothes because I was working with both kids’ pregnancies. I am trying to sell some of the work ones and purchase some more appropriate for now clothes. Also, both kids were born in the summer or when it was warm, this one should be here before any warm so I need some seasonal stuff as well.
How far along? 15 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 5lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: getting up for the bathroom usually once and night sweats but not too bad
Best Moment this Week: The kids (Nolan) doing so amazing at Halloween in the Park!
Miss Anything? not really
Movement: no
Food Craving? nothing really
Anything making you queasy or sick? no, doing pretty well.
Bellybutton in our out? in but barely.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? Happy but I did have a melt down. Working to get all the oils Nolan needs in has been tough. I decided in my hormonal stupidity I am done making the kids their same 5 meals and then eating for us separate. They weren’t eating the dinner and I was just so tired of having to figure out how to get him oil, figure out their meals they will MAYBE eat, and just lost it. The tears were kind of dramatic.
Looking forward to? more movement so I can be reassured things are ok.
Labor Signs? no
Anything Else? My sciatic nerve has been bothering me on and off. I have had to step back from my Barre Studio which makes me super sad but I really don’t want to hurt me or baby. I am trying to do things from barre that don’t hurt it every now and then when I am in the living room, push ups on the stairs, etc. But the loss of barre (and the social interaction) and not moving great are sad for me–and Stella who loved going to “dance class”
I have SUCKED at cooking/preparing lunch for 1 especially nutritious enough to feed both baby and I. It was suggested to try smoothies and it is so great. I don’t need to think about what’s for lunch, it has almost all my food groups, and I feel like I am doing much better for baby and I.
How far along? 16 weeks.
Total Weight Gain? 5ish lbs
Stretch Marks? nothing new
Sleep: waking for the bathroom, waking for the kids. It is 1-2 times a night right now.
Best Moment this Week: Nolan naming his characters in his Mickey Book! Stella saying our bedtime prayer completely independently.
Miss Anything? slowly adding caffeine back in so that is better.
Movement: I don’t think so
Food Craving? Three Musketeers bars
Anything making you queasy or sick? surgical shows. I have to look away way more often.
Bellybutton in our out? hanging in at half way between
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? It has been a very emotional time with Nolan this week. I have been so happy with his progress and then I have been so incredibly sad with his regressions.
Looking forward to? Doctor’s appointment on Wednesday to hear the heartbeat and just know things are ok.
Labor Signs? I had a couple days with 4-5 contractions/braxton hicks that were unpredictable, not consistent, and short. My stomach/uterus is then sore where they were afterwards.
Anything Else? With already having a boy and a girl and already having all the baby things we would likely need, we feel we are pretty close to having what we need for baby. We are going to have baby share a room with Nolan or Stella (stuff with Nolan, sleep with Stella). We got a mini pack n play that fits in our small master, but also is bigger than a bassinet to buy us some time. Follow the small shop shout outs for items we have as well as how we are storing them and what is in the hospital bag.
How far along? 17 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 9lbs
Stretch Marks? nothing new
Sleep: getting up once or twice, a couple nights of staying up late or up for an hour due to insomnia
Best Moment this Week: *checking things off my project list.
*Nolan saying “I want”
*Hearing the heartbeat (even if it was super scary that it took what felt like forever to find because baby was playing keep away from the doppler)
Miss Anything? Not crying about everything that is hard.
Movement: Yes. Little flutters are happening!
Food Craving? French Onion Dip has been pretty awesome.
Anything making you queasy or sick? no
Bellybutton in our out? very much on its way out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I am generally happy but the second something goes “wrong” or gets “hard” I cry about it. I am not very good at controlling the sting in the eyes.
Looking forward to? More consistent movement so I can
Labor Signs? Contractions are happening but not consistent.
Anything Else? I am working on making this blog a blog that meets the needs of moms. Autism mom, NT moms, working moms, stay at home moms (zoo keepers). Please comment, message or email (stayathomezookeeper@gmail.com) with suggestions or questions!
How far along? 18 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 10 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Getting up once a night, had a REAL rough night when Alex was at deer camp–Stella stayed up until 10 waiting for daddy, 10:30 I got the mail with bad insurance news so I stressed until 11. 3:20 Nolan woke and couldn’t go back to sleep…..
Best Moment this Week: Thanksgiving when Daddy got home and we got to be together and then go see Alex’s side of the family
Miss Anything? I would have liked some wine on Thanksgiving….OH! and a Moscow Mule!
Movement: Taps getting a little more frequent
Food Craving? Loving me some green beans in garlic mayo
Anything making you queasy or sick? no, doing pretty well.
Bellybutton in our out? In in the morning, Out in the evening
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I am super emotional. The holidays and the emotions that we are going to have to do holidays different than our peers or how we had originally imagined is hard. My brain knows that it is just a fact of our life, my hormones don’t listen and make me cry a lot about all this this week.
Looking forward to? Really trying to do what we can and enjoy the Holidays best we can. Also, more consistent movement so I can worry less.
Labor Signs? Contractions but nothing regular and not very often.
Anything Else? Here we go into the holiday season! We have crazy busy month ahead! Posts may be a little late!
How far along? 19 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 10ish lbs
Stretch Marks? No
Sleep: I sleepy great when the kids let me. Stella woke in hives on Saturday but giving her Benadryl after she slept through the night–and Nolan has been having a hard time but slept great Saturday.
Best Moment this Week: *Daddy felt baby kick/move!
* Holiday Season kick off weekend
Miss Anything? All the special holiday drinks: brandy slush, grasshoppers (Gloud-hoppers), Moscow mules, wine.
Movement: yes! Feeling every day some days more than others. Really likes 3am when I’m on my back-I can often feel it with my hand and belly then. This baby is a big mover!!
Food Craving? Nothing really
Anything making you queasy or sick? Gross things, hearing about them, knowing about them, thinking about them.
Bellybutton in our out? On its way out
Wedding Rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time? Emotional. Holidays are doing it to me
Looking forward to? Ultrasound in a little over a week and more Holliday fun!
Labor Signs? Contractions still happening-happened with my biggest trigger-vacuuming–due to the twisting.
Anything Else? The whole family has been ill all week. We went to the parade as happy as can be on Monday and then it just got crazy from there. Trying to be mom, Autism mom, taxi, holiday decorator, cleaning lady, chef, dog care giver, and grow a human all while coughing continuously and so hard that I pee myself with out my partner has been nuts. I never realized how much I depended on Alex and how much we just naturally balance each other and split the work until he was sick in bed for almost a week.
How far along? 20 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 10ish
Stretch Marks? nothing new
Sleep: Pretty decent, the kids have been pretty decent at sleeping thank goodness.
Best Moment this Week: I was having trouble feeling baby and I couldn’t remember the last time I did…I started to worry…until Alex put on the song Packer Face and put it on my belly. Baby kicked 3 times so I could go to sleep.
Miss Anything? I would like the holiday drinks. This pregnancy it seems to bother me the most of the other 3 (I have been pregnant on Christmas for all 3 kids now!)
Movement: yes! Lots. Especially when I have my knees up baby kicks my thighs….Too close mom! Too close!
Food Craving? nothing really this week
Anything making you queasy or sick? I have actually been pretty good this week.
Bellybutton in our out? Teetering but on its way out.
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I have had a very hard week with Nolan and decisions on medications, sleep, and speech. It has really taken it’s toll on me. I just cannot regulate my emotions to handle it better.
Looking forward to? ULTRASOUND on Wednesday! I want to compare this baby’s sweet face to it’s brother and sister’s
Labor Signs? Contractions. I am noticing them more and more often but still just the tightening, no pain.
Anything Else? I have been a normal pregnancy up until 20 weeks with both kids. I am praying this child surprises us and lets me stay low risk for all 40 weeks!
How far along? 21 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 12 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: awful. I keep thinking I hear the kids and then I am up for an hour or so, just to do it again. Last night we turned up the sound machine and shut our door (while turning the monitor up so if it was the kids I would still hear them) and I slept better until something fell off the wall and startled me awake.
Best Moment this Week: *Seeing baby move and being told that WE ARE NOT HIGH RISK!
* Nolan and Stella holding hands and walking into school! It was so amazing!
* Nolan getting his iPad and speech assistive apps to begin being able to talk to us!
Miss Anything? Nothing really this week
Movement: A LOT of movement. Baby is going crazy in there, moving its legs every which way (as seen on the ultrasound). Baby moves quite a bit on its own but likes music and cold drinks best.
Food Craving? I have really liked nacho cheese. Alex got me taco johns steak nachos and they were amazing.
Anything making you queasy or sick? baby does not like bacon.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I had a relatively happy week but there are still things that set me into tears much easier than when not pregnant.
Looking forward to? Continued movement, growth, and baby being here.
Labor Signs? Still some braxton hicks…nothing regular or stronger yet.
Anything Else? * I have had to start my modifications at dance. This is actually exciting because it means we are getting closer! I love still getting exercise but in a safe way for me and baby. (barre workout while pregnant post coming soon)
* Today we took Nolan to get his iPad he was gifted by the Kiwanis club. We are so lucky to have an organization that has helped us to find a way to give Nolan a voice. This has been very emotional to me. If you see any fundraisers in your area for the Kiwanis club, I highly recommend you attend and give other families like ours an opportunity to bond with their child (and make a pregnant mommy cry).
How far along? 22 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 12 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: I can’t get enough! The kid **actively and loudly knocks on wood** have been sleeping very well, but I wake up tired. I just always feel tired.
Best Moment this Week: * Feeling healthy and movement from the baby.
* Getting a call from Nolan’s school that he has met IEP goals (with the exception of speech) and we are going to rewrite in January instead of March * Seeing all goals at ABA center and school go up (with the exception of speech)
* iPad chart working with Stella REALLY well! She is doing so great listening, helping, following directions, and being done with the iPad when time runs out. Check out the post HERE.
Miss Anything? Not really this week
Movement: Lots and lots of movement
Food Craving? Not really though I still love nacho cheese
Anything making you queasy or sick? Not really
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? this week has been pretty good
Looking forward to? Christmas! I love the Christmas festivities!
Labor Signs? Braxton Hicks that aren’t regular or painful yet.
Anything Else? I feel like the weeks both crawl and fly. I cannot believe we are this far! I am so amazed we don’t have to be high risk and that this baby is doing well. I rearranged our master bedroom (for about 4 hours) and finally have walking room, rocking/nursing room, and sleeping room for baby.
How far along? 23 weeks
Total Weight Gain? Christmas happened so who knows!
Stretch Marks? No
Sleep: I’m always tired. Holiday tired, pregnancy tired, kids sick and cough all night tired.
Best Moment this Week: Christmas festivities. Smiles- Alex told me to measure my kids happiness by how many times they smile–they were so happy
Miss Anything? A couple holiday drinks
Movement: lots
Food Craving? Vanilla shakes and McDonald’s fries
Anything making you queasy or sick? I really wanted my moms homemade queso Christmas Eve (and ate tons)…and then suddenly I couldn’t stand the smell
Bellybutton in our out? Out
Wedding Rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time? holidays the sickness it’s been bipolar over here
Looking forward to? Doctors appointment to know all is well. Just happy to have confirmation all’s growing and sounding well
Labor Signs? Still Braxton Hicks
Anything Else? If you’ve been following on Instagram you may have seen that Nolan got pretty sick the day after Christmas. He’s been miserable big able to sleep which has helped it be easier to manage all the home (though not easier on the emotions). Stella’s been great playing with her new toys and helping Nolan. Baby kicks the kids while they rock or cuddle on my lap letting me know it’s ok. Alex has been working every day Nolan’s been sick including 12 hour days and he keeps apologizing. I’m amazed how NOT frustrated I’ve been with it all-it just feels routine. I guess I’m made to mom-at least that’s what I’m telling myself.
How far along? 24 weeks
Total Weight Gain? Christmas happened so who knows!
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Of the 3 pregnancies, this is by far the worst one for sleep. If I am on my back I cant breathe and wake up sore, if I am on my sides (either) I wake up with numb hands which is tricky for getting up with kids, and I even have rolled to my stomach but it lasts 3 seconds before baby is not a fan and kicks the bed with fury.
Best Moment this Week: watching my belly move with the kicks. They are for sure getting stronger.
Miss Anything? while taking down the tree I was really hoping I could bend fully and be able to lift/carry as normal.
Movement: tons
Food Craving? McDonald’s fries and vanilla shakes are still my jam
Anything making you queasy or sick? Bacon is still a no go. We got a nice bout with the Noro-virus here too…. I totally could have done with out that!
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? bi-polar
Looking forward to? I am looking forward to our appointment, getting the room done for now, and feeling settled.
Labor Signs? braxton hicks have picked up a little but only when I do strenuous activities or aggravate my {very} irritable uterus. Not regular yet.
Anything Else? I feel a lot of stress. I want to write more blogs, haven’t had time. I want to provide {financially} for the family and it hasn’t worked out yet. Alex works daily to provide and I am working to care for the home but have restrictions with pregnancy. I hate saving things for him to do when he gets home from working a 12 hour day but I don’t want to hurt the baby either. I just want to do all the things and be safe in all the ways.
How far along? 25 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 16lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Not so great. I cannot figure out comfort for the life of me. Also, nightly heartburn has begun.
Best Moment this Week: Hearing the heartbeat and getting the OK to remain low risk.
* Nolan has been having a rock star week! He has been surprising everyone with what hes been able to do, attend, and smile about!
Miss Anything? Easy movement and easy sleep.
Movement: so.much.movement.
Food Craving? Still loving fries and vanilla shakes.
Anything making you queasy or sick? No
Bellybutton in our out? its hanging out and when I work on Abs it likes to really pop!
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I am an autism mom, I dont think this will ever change.
Looking forward to? Growing baby and each milestone that comes!
Labor Signs? irregular contractions still!
Anything Else? We are beginning to get space set up, the things are purchased, and I feel rather prepared for baby! I am getting more and more excited!
How far along? 26 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 16 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: sleep is getting worse and worse. Bathroom trips are more often, comfort is harder, and baby kicks the most at bed time.
Best Moment this Week: Watching Nolan at swim lessons
Miss Anything? cleaning, decorating, rearranging without being told no or simply not being able to.
Movement: LOTS
Food Craving? nothing this week
Anything making you queasy or sick? Had a really bad headache over the weekend and I avoided meds at all cost but had to resort to a Tylenol.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? I am having a lot more moody/emotional days.
Looking forward to? appointments getting closer together because it means baby is closer to getting here.
Labor Signs? a lot of stronger braxton hicks this week.
Anything Else? I think I can call the baby corner done and I think we have a plan for what we will do when baby outgrows its corner.
How far along? 27 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 17 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: awful. We are weaning Nolan off his sleep meds so it is affecting our sleep greatly. I am also trying to get comfortable, not have my arms go numb, and stop waking up on my back in pain.
Best Moment this Week: * Seeing the kids smile
* Getting my new mug “Raise World Changers” from TwinBearApparel–which has given me a much more positive outlook on our life and our challenges in this life
* Getting a ton of items checked off my Better as Us organization challenge and our house is bringing me more joy.
Miss Anything? Being able to get comfortable when I snuggle up or just flexible to get stuff done.
Movement: Still having a great deal and it is getting more predictable at times. It was painful a couple times with an appendage scraping across the whole stomach in a big roll.
Food Craving? Nothing really
Anything making you queasy or sick? A couple days after eating dinner I was so nauseous I had to have some mints in order to feel like I could keep the food down enough to move about the house.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? Mix
Looking forward to? My glucose test to rule out that “risk,” hearing baby heartbeat, and just watching baby move and my belly grow with it.
Labor Signs? braxton hicks that can be more painful or leave me sore after.
Anything Else? Today marks 16 years that Alex asked me to be his girlfriend. We have been together ever since and through so much. I love that we have so much history and “life” behind us and our relationship to help us continue to gain strength, love, and memories as we go into the many more years and challenges ahead.
How far along? 28 Weeks
Total Weight Gain? 18lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Hard. I keep waking up on my back in pain, but I also cannot find anything that makes me stop doing it.
Best Moment this Week: Nolan repeating some words!
*Glucose and all the other tests I had this week coming back good to go!
Miss Anything? Being nausea and heartburn free. Heartburn is pretty much constant and the nausea has started the last 3 days but feels like morning sickness but usually hits me in the afternoons….
Movement: Lots. We actually got to play a couple games of chase…I get baby out of my rib, it runs away only to go back in my rib. Daddy got to watch the game, too. At the doctor, they could not get the baby on the NST monitory because it was moving too much!
Food Craving? nothing really
Anything making you queasy or sick? Doctor shows I cannot watch as much gross stuff as I used to. I just look away quick and I’m good to go. Nausea just comes on its own unprevoked.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? It has been a rough week. I am feeling pretty moody. The list of grievances I sent Alex on Sunday is a little embarrassing now….
Looking forward to? Ultrasound in 2 weeks. Because Nolan was such a large baby (who caused a lot of damage on his way out) I mentioned monitoring size to my doctor. He agreed and is looking at an ultrasound in 2 weeks to help us monitor. I am excited to see baby.
Labor Signs? Braxton hicks are picking up. They can be pretty frequent at night and sometimes pretty strong. I did mention this to my doctor and he did check my cervix (long and closed) and did a fetal fibronectin (came back neg). Feeling tired from them already, but hoping it helps with labor with all this practice!
Anything Else? We are excited to see this baby and know this baby. It is getting more real baby will be here and the adjustments we will have to make once here, but we are excited for it!
How far along? 30 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 23 lbs
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: awful. I am up all the time to use the bathroom and if I am not up for the bathroom I am up with one of the other kids. Still rolling onto my back in the night but then I wake up and I cant breath and everything hurts so it takes me a while to fall asleep again.
Best Moment this Week: Seeing baby moving and knowing what body part is where and been poking me in that spot. As hard as Valentine’s day was (with not having the whole family together and Nolan having a hard time) but I was able to get a couple of photos and love on these kids of mine.
Miss Anything? I really struggle with moving easily. I just want to bend, get laundry out of the washing machine, stir things on the stove, or do the dishes without kicks, contractions or the inability to reach.
Movement: Lots and lots of movement. It is all the time. As annoying as it was, I love knowing everything is ok and I appreciate the little reminders so very often.
Food Craving? not really
Anything making you queasy or sick? not really–nausea has been random.
Bellybutton in our out? out as out can be.
Wedding Rings on or off? on! I got my ring back and it is shinier than I remember, it is whiter than I remember, and it is not longer irritating my finger!
Happy or Moody most of the time? I am pretty moody. Lots of tears often. Lots of anxiety about the unknown and lack of control.
Looking forward to? At this point I am ready for baby to be here so I have some answers. Many of the things scaring me are the unknown so just having baby here means I will have those answers. Don’t get me wrong, I do not want to have baby early I just want the answers part of it.
Labor Signs? Lots and lots of contractions but still absolutely no problems with the cervix so that is good.
Anything Else? Baby is approximately 3lbs 4oz. Measuring in the 48% for size. I have my gender guess, but nothing is set in stone-obviously. If anyone saw the huge lump by my bellybutton the other day, to answer the shoulder vs butt debate, it was the butt. Baby is head down, which is nice.
I am not sure if you saw my last post, but there is a lot more anxiety behind a pregnancy after a special needs diagnosis. New aspects of the anxiety pop up when you least expect it or something you never thought of suddenly has a deeper meaning. For me, the size of this baby set off a whole bunch of feelings of labor and things that can cause autism. I am scared but I know that I am meant to have another baby. I will keep on trucking and working through the emotions one day at a time.
How far along? 31 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 17ish
Stretch Marks? No
Sleep: horrible. Between the kids and bathroom it’s been rough
Best Moment this Week: seeing Nolan’s smile going down the slide at swimming lessons * Stella becoming more of a person every day
Miss Anything? Easy movement
Movement: like crazy- no slowing or more restricted movements yet
Food Craving? None
Anything making you queasy or sick? Random times, lack of eating
Bellybutton in our out? Out
Wedding Rings on or off? On-no rash!
Happy or Moody most of the time? Moody. We’re in a hard spot in life right now. It’s all hills and valleys and right now happens to be a valley.
Looking forward to? Appointment on Wednesday-hearing how we’re doing.
Labor Signs? So.many.contractions. They are getting more and more frequent, getting stronger, and getting longer. Friday was rough-every time I stood up I basically had one and had some sitting too
Anything Else? We have begun the “better prep early don’t know when the baby is coming” stage. Starting to prep the kids more and more for independence. Making hospital bag shopping list. Easter baskets planned and done–x3. Easter is the week before the due date so we have a basket if baby comes before. Planning and sharing the save the date for Nolans autism walk (the day after due date) and other autism awareness stuff. After our trip next weekend, we will begin the packing, car seats, final prep.
How far along? 32 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 25ish
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: not great. It is up for the bathroom, up with the kids
Best Moment this Week: Hearing baby’s heartbeat, feeling baby’s movement, and knowing we are still not considered high risk. It is amazing how fast appointments can be when not doing extra tests!
Miss Anything? bending, doing things by myself/easily, walking to the mailbox (with the horrible winter weather we have had has made our driveway an iceskating rink and dangerous. Alex only allows me to get the mail by car)
Movement: all.the.time.
Food Craving? nothing really
Anything making you queasy or sick? random nausea–mint helps most the time.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? a little bit of both–pretty up and down.
Looking forward to? Our trip to Minnesota to see our friends–our sons are 4 months apart, our daughters are 2 weeks apart, our 3rd babies are due 4 months apart. Also, our husbands also are pharmacists for the same company. We have a lot in common and it makes for a great trip.
Labor Signs? nothing new braxton hicks wise
Anything Else? This post was written in the car on the way to Minnesota, but the photo wasn’t taken until we got home so it is combined with week 33–see below.
How far along? 33 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 25ish
Stretch Marks? no
Sleep: Nolan’s sleep has been rough so mommy has been sleeping next to him to help him out–but its not as comfortable and it is very interrupted…on top of having to use the bathroom all the time.
Best Moment this Week: visiting our friends! Nolan had some ups and downs and Stella had one of her first over tired out of her mind fits, but we survived it, we saw great friends and it was a good time!
Miss Anything? Not needing to go the the bathroom all the time.
Movement: Continuous, all the time. It is crazy how much this little one can make my whole gut move.
Food Craving? not really
Anything making you queasy or sick? just nausea randomly. I have been using mint and some left over preggy pops to help.
Bellybutton in our out? out
Wedding Rings on or off? on
Happy or Moody most of the time? very up and down.I had one day I could not remove my self from the couch. I felt paralyzed and I just sat and watched the world go by….but then Alex left for work and I was all they had to help and I got up and felt a little better. I was doing much better the next day.
Looking forward to? just being closer to baby being here.
Labor Signs? nothing new
Anything Else? Our Pudgie Pie got sick while we were in Minnesota. It was very difficult to manage my emotions and know grandma had it in control–even if grandma worried I wouldn’t be in control so she secretly called Alex and didn’t tell me. They got a vet appointment made, got him in, and got him on meds. He is already doing better, thank goodness. It would have been a much different emotional Siraya if he would have been worse.
Also! Our little Stella Bean is 33 months while I am 33 weeks! Stella is not quite sure what is coming though we talk about baby a lot. She switches team boy and team girl daily. She knows baby is in mommy’s belly, that baby is going to come out and sleep in baby’s bed in mommy and daddy’s room, and baby gets the seat with the leaves. That is about the extent of it.
I was 4 weeks pregnant when Nolan turned 4 years old, but I was still so sick from the parasite I forgot to do the photo and the math. I did get one with Nolan when he was 16 months I was 16 weeks with Stella–and that one was to the day!
How far along? 34 weeks
Total Weight Gain? 28 ish
Stretch Marks? Nothing new from other babies
Sleep: I am not sure if it is belly placement, baby’s position, or what, but this baby is by far the hardest to work around to get some sleep. Add in both kids waking lately and sleep has been very rough.
Best Moment this Week: Hearing everything is good and healthy with baby…the morning of the appointment Stella made the declaration: “We goin’ to see doctor and hear baby heart beeps” I love she is taking part and slowly getting it.
Miss Anything? Bending and sleeping
Movement: All.The.Time. The doctor even seemed a little surprised how much the little one was moving all around. Its usually not that tricky to track down a 34 weeker on the doppler.
Food Craving? I’ve loved the sparkling grape juice and chocolate.
Anything making you queasy or sick? Empty stomach and random times
Bellybutton in our out? WAY out. You can see it come to a point on my belly in the photo
Wedding Rings on or off? On. I am so glad I am no longer reacting to them.
Happy or Moody most of the time? Very up and down.
Looking forward to? Mother Son Dance on Saturday with Nolan.
Labor Signs? Contractions are picking back up but not at a worrisome level
Anything Else? We have had a lot of flooding in our area due to the quickly melting snow AND rain at the same time. Alex was working (naturally it was his 12 hour day) so I wanted to be sure to keep our house as dry as I could. I kept the drain tile clear and water flow to the fields open. Luckily we have managed to stay dry this far.
Our doctor informed us he is going in for a total shoulder replacement on April 24–my due date is April 26. Since he would like to be the doctor to deliver this little one, if we are ok with it he would schedule us for an induction before his last day. Though I am a little nervous about it, having an induction day so I am able to plan when people get Nolan to school, transportation and childcare. I am working with our doctor on the plan for induction that I feel most comfortable about. There is also a chance I could go on my own before–though I doubt it since my kids like to be like their mom and follow the rules and come on due dates or induction dates.
