Two Months.

Parker is actualy 2.5 months but we'll pretend that it's two weeks ago and I posted this on time....

Length: 23.5 inches (80th percentile)
Weight: 13.7 pounds (90th percentile)
Head Circumference: 16.4 inches (95th percentile)

• You moved up to size one diapers at around 5 weeks old. (After I gave up trying to stuff you in newborn diapers...it was a sad day for mom.)
• You are out of your newborn clothes (also sad), but wear mostly 0-3 and some of your 3-6 month clothes.
• You starting smiling at around 5 weeks, but the first time you gave out "big smiles" was for your daddy when you were 5 weeks 6 days old. We got it on camera too.
• You made your first trip to Colorado when you were 5 weeks old and your first trip to California when you were 7 weeks old. You are well traveled!
• Your record for sleep so far is 6.5 hours.
• You started cooing and "having conversations" with us when you were about 7.5 weeks old. We absolutely LOVE this! I have spent many hours just sitting around talking with you. You are very polite and wait for whomever is talking to you to finish before you talk back.
• You are eating about 5-6 ounces at each feeding!
• You discovered your tongue at about 5 or 6 weeks and have been obessesed with showing it off ever since!
• You love your sunglasses. Seriously, you wear them all the time and don't really care that they are there! It's hilarious.
• You like the TV and especially pay attention when a baseball game is on. At first I thought it was just a coincidence, but now I've noticed that you are seriously watching it. Like father, like son....
• You got to see where your daddy and I grew up, met, and got married! I made sure to tell you what happened at certain locations on our trip to Colorado, like "This is where your daddy and I took pictures before prom", and, "This is where your daddy took me on our second date", and,"This is the exact room that your daddy and I first met." Cheesy, yes, but true.
• We stuck your feet in the Pacific Ocean when we were in San Diego...you actually kind of hated it, but now we can say that you've been there, done that!

Momma Must-Haves: Part One

Hello, hello! Today I thought I would share a few of me and Parker's favorite things that we use ALL the time. It's funny to think about what I thought that I would be using when I was still pregnant and what I actually use (and l-o-v-e) now that Mr. P is here. :) Here are my top must-haves (as of right now):

 

1. Aden + Anais Swaddle Blankets: We use these all day every day! They are breatheable but warm, which is so perfect for when Parker tries to pull them over his head while he sleeps (a favorite pastime of his). They are also great to cover the car seat with when we are out and about since P still gets plenty of air. AND they're cute as all get out. Win win.

2. Equate Infants' Gas Relief: I got this as a shower gift from a mother who swore it was the best gas medicine out there--and I have to agree! P gets a little (a lot) gassy and this stuff does the trick. His toots are like a grown man--no exaggeration! He also likes the way it tastes, which is a bonus.

3. Baby Trend Snap N Go: I use this basically anytime we go anywhere. I have yet to use his fancy stroller mostly because the Snap N Go is so easy to get out and....go.

4. Gilligan & OMalley Nursing Bras: Okay, this one has nothing to do with Parker, but I couldn't resist. I LOVE these things! They are easy to use (no snapping or clipping) and very comfortable.

5. Baby Hair Lotion: My mother-in-law introduced me to this stuff. This is the pinnacle of the "baby smell" that we are all so obsessed with. I just rub some of this in P's hair and he smells like heaven! 

6. Summer Infant Deluxe Baby Bather: We have a big bathtub for Parker, but he's a little small for it right now, so my mom went out and found this amazing little bath chair for pretty cheap. Parker loves to lounge during his bath time now! It even travels very nicely since it folds flat--perfect for a suitcase.

7. Nap Nanny Chill: I jumped on the Nap Nanny bandwagon and will never look back! Parker sleeps better in this than he does in almost any other place. I was skeptical at first after a friend urged me to go buy one--at $130 they are not cheap--but I have to say that 6 1/2  hours of straight sleep in those first few months is pretty priceless.

8. The First Years Sounds for Silence Premium Sound Machine: I love this because it has many different options for sounds (although some are a little annoying), and you can plug your iPod into it. Our favorite sounds like a womb.  A little weird, but it works. Parker sleeps really well with it, and since we can take it everywhere we travel, he always feels at home (and we travel A LOT- Parker has already been to 4 states!).

So tell me, do any of these make your list of must-haves? What can you not live without that I may not have discovered yet?

Have a great day!

One Month.

I cannot believe that our baby boy is ONE month old! It has truly flown.

Length: 21.25 inches (at two week appointment)

Weight: 8 pounds 14 ounces (at two week appointment)

• You ROLLED OVER at 10 days old which completely freaked me, your dad, and your Nonnie out, but we got it on tape and were so proud! You haven't done it since, but you are one strong little guy!
• Your record for sleep so far has been 5 hours...go you!
• You have a great taste in music! I love this characteristic and I credit it to the many hours you listened to it while you were in my belly. One day when you were fussy, I tried to calm you down with some baby-ish lullaby music....you were not having it though. I gave up and decided to turn on my iTunes and you immediately calmed down and fell asleep about 2 minutes later. We have been listening to lots of "grown up" music since then! Your favorites are Young the Giant, Vampire Weekend, and Coldplay.
• You are a great people person and a very sweet little snuggler. Everyone comments on what a good baby you are and I have to agree! We got very lucky that you have your daddy's temperament.
• You sneeze all the time but sometimes do a "fake out" and instead of actually sneezing, you let out this big coo that is so adorable even though you don't mean to do it. Then you smile like your all proud of yourself even though you don't know you're doing that either.
• You love to be sung to sleep. I stick with one of my favorites--"You Are My Sunshine" and your eyes always start to droop almost immediately. It takes me about 5 minutes to get you drowsy enough to lay down. (Yes, I realize how amazing that is.)
• You do not like to be in a dirty diaper. This is really the only time you get in a really bad mood. I understand though---I wouldn't want to sit in poo either ;).

Parker's Nursery.

Today is finally the day! I actually got around to posting pictures of Parker's sweet little nursery.

There are so many projects and stories that went into the making of this room.

My dad and Bryan put in the board and batton. It was definitely a labor of love. The rocker was the best Craigslist find I have ever seen ($60), but needed a new upholstery job BAD. I found an upholsterer and a neutral toile fabric (so that it can be used for future, "girl" nurseries if needed) and wa-lah!

"Cooking and cleaning can wait till tomorrow, for babies grow up we've learned to our sorrow, so settle down dust, cob webs go to sleep, I'm rocking my baby and babies don't keep."

My mother-in-law told me this saying, and I thought it was important to put somewhere that I could see it everyday. I find myself repeating it in my head while I'm looking around our wreck of a house. And while I'm rocking sweet Parker to sleep :).

I put the lyrics to "You Are My Sunshine" in the frames above the crib, but I will eventually put his newborn pictures in them instead!

The little onesies on the wall are Bryan's. I LOVE these.

As you know, we painted our Craigslist crib a few months ago, and my mom, mother-in-law and me made all of the bedding. My mom did the awesome crib skirt (using this tutorial), my mother-in-law made the bumpers (which I don't have in there at the moment), and I made the fitted sheets (using this tutorial) and pillows. The pillows are taken out for sleep-time though!!! We are very paranoid parents, promise :). All fabric was special ordered at JoAnn's.

The light is from Ikea, the rug from Home Depot, curtains from Target, and the ottoman from TJ Maxx. The hanging baskets on the opposite wall are from World Market. The paint color is Valspar Cliveden Gray Morning.

The dresser is from a local antique store. I love love love it, but the drawers are kind of a pain to close. Bummer. The baskets have all of his diapers and changing supplies. We didn't do a changing pad per my mom's advice, and have been having a perfectly fine time changing him all over the house. (I have many "diaper changing stations" set up around the house.)

So that's that! I hope you all liked it. :) I'll try and put a few more details later, but right now I have a precious little baby who is starting to wake up and wants to eat!

EDITED 8/11/13: SOURCES!

Crib: Craigslist, Rug: Lowe's, Rocker: Craiglist (Sealy brand), Ottoman: TJ Maxx, Dresser: Antique, Stacking baskets: TJ Maxx (I still see them from time to time), Side Table: TJ Maxx, Hanging Baskets: World Market (I believe they are discontinued...), Light Fixture: Ikea, Lamp: TJ Maxx, Airplanes: TJ Maxx, Curtains: Target, Bamboo Blinds: Overstock, Sunburst Mirror: Hobby Lobby, Grapevine Balls: Hobby Lobby, Wire Baskets: Paul Michael, Wooden Frame: Target, Metal Wall Frames: Ross, Succulent: Ikea, Eucalyptus Bunch and Vase: TJ Maxx, Chair Fabric: Waverly Country Linen via Joann Fabrics, Crib Skirt & Pillow Fabric: Croscill Home via Joann Fabrics (discontinued, sorry!), Houndstooth Pillow Fabric: Croscill Home via Joann Fabrics, Blue Plaid Fabric on Pillow and Clothing Art: Robert Allen Home via Joann Fabrics (discontinued!), Paint Color: Valspar Cliveden Gray Morning, Satin, Crib Color: Valspar Gray Silt, Satin, Ceiling Color: Valspar Woodrow Wilson Blush, Flat, B&B Color: Martha Stewart Clean White, Satin

Have a great day!

P.S. I'm sharing this here:

Parker Reed.

May I introduce our son, Parker Reed! He was born Friday, April 27, 2012 at 6:18am. I have never felt so much love in my entire life. We are so blessed. More to come later :).








38 Weeks

Still here. Still cooking! And almost a week behind in bump posts, whoops!!

How Far Along: 38 Weeks.

Baby Size: I lied last week, the food comparisons continue to grow-- baby is the size of a pumpkin! Our growth  ultrasound on my birthday told us that he is between 8-8.5 pounds. Like, right now. He's his daddy's boy.

Total Weight Gain: Okay, so I've had two doctor appointments since my last post. It's getting a bit ridiculous. Anyway, I gained 2 pounds at the first one (for a grand total of 36 pounds) and then lost 2 at my second one (which apparently happens at the end). So 34 pounds.

Maternity Clothes? Yes. The above dress is my lone maternity dress. Target. $7 on saaaaale.

Stretch Marks? The little guys are still there. And I am still sad. I've gotten kind of obsessive with looking at them. I just hope they go away enough that I can wear a bikini again!

Sleep: Meh. I am over trying to sleep. I get really excited if I find a position that is comfortable for more than an hour. 

Best moment this week: Just trying to soak up time with Bryan. I went out to dinner/lunch with a bunch of my friends for my birthday (3 times!) and had SO much fun. I love love love my friends and hope that I am still good about hanging out once he's here. I got an awesome mommy massage on Friday. OH, and we finally went on a hospital tour. All of the nurses were SO nice and it made me a lot less nervous about staying there! (I have a weird fear of hospitals, nurses, needles...all of that).

Miss Anything? Well, I'm SO done being uncomfortable (I am a fickle pregnant lady), but I know I will miss my bump and him moving around in my belly once he's here.

Movement: Movement has slowed quite a bit this week. He tries to stretch every once in a while (to my dismay), so I have to remind him that stretching would be a lot easier if he would just come OUT and meet us! He still gets the hiccups a few times a day though. I LOVE it!

Food Cravings: Sweets. Powdered donuts. I know, I'm so bad. And Sonic Sweet Tea has been Ah-mazing lately!

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Gender: Boy!

Labor Signs: Well, at my 37 week appointment I found out that I was 2-3cm dilated, 70% effaced. At my 38 week appointment I was 4cm dilated, 70% effaced. My doctor says I could go any day, but I'm trying not to get my hopes up....although that's a very hard thing to do. :( Still having Braxton Hicks at night.

Belly button in or out? Flat.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: So happy but SO impatient.  

Looking forward to: Meeting him. That's it. :)

Things to Remember (this is new): Well, sometimes I talk to him when I'm alone. That's a little embarrassing to admit. Just about when he's going to come and what he will look like and what kind of baby he will be. I want to remember waking up in the middle of the night with Braxton Hicks and thinking "This could be real!", even though it's a big let down when it isn't. Still exciting though :). I also need to remember how excited everyone is for us. When you're nine months pregnant you get a lot of attention and it's hard to appreciate it when you're huge and exhausted. :)

Talk to you all later!! Oh, and THANK YOU for all of the sweet comments and birthday wishes! I have been horrible at responding to comments for like, months now, but I do read every single one and really appreciate them SO very much :).

37 Weeks. Full Term!

Alright, I'm almost 38 weeks now, but here are the pictures and post from when I was 37 weeks. Also, it's my birthday today! The big 2-4! Woo-hoo! I'm taking the day off and pampering myself :).

How Far Along: 37 Weeks. Full freaking term. Ahhhh!

Baby Size: The size of a watermelon. That's as big as the fruit comparisons get, friends!

Total Weight Gain: Oh man....34 pounds. I gained 4 pounds in two weeks!

Maternity Clothes? Si.

Stretch Marks? Oh man....it happened. I have 3 stretch mark buddies now that are about 3 inches below my belly button. I can't see them that well at all (they are light pink thank goodness), but I do tend to obsess over them while looking in the mirror. Bryan swears he can't see them, but I think he's just being nice. They are really little though, so I'm hoping they go away quickly!

Sleep: Yuck. We don't sleep anymore. We nap.

Best moment this week: Hmmmm....well we finished the nursery (I took pictures this weekend), and I think we have decided on a name for him! But we are still waiting to officially announce once he's born. I finally feel like I have "nested" enough that if he came today, I would be okay! Also, we met with our doula for almost 3 hours the other night and it got me so excited and motivated for getting him here!

Miss Anything? No, just normal sleep as of right now. But I won't be getting that back for a while!

Movement: Still lots of movement, though he dropped some this week, so I haven't been getting my ribs bruised as much! We are trying to get a video of him moving my belly around, but he always stops right when we hit the record button. Bummer.

Food Cravings: Sweets. Water and lemonade.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Gender: Still a sweet baby boy.

Labor Signs: I'm so excited that I can answer this one! I have had LOTS and lots of pretty intense Braxton Hicks the past few night and some other not so pretty signs that labor is coming....if you know what I mean. ;) The Braxton Hicks have been so intense that they wake me up several times a night. Lots of back pain....but I'm kind of used to that now haha.

Belly button in or out? Pretty flat.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Very happy!!! Cannot wait to meet him.

Looking forward to: Mostly just meeting him. And soaking up pregnancy and time with his daddy while I can. Oh, and we have our last big ultrasound this morning! I can't wait to see his chubby little cheeks :).

Things to Remember (this is new): The way his hiccups feel. I think I will cry the first time he gets them when he's an outside baby :). I have been crying at EVERYTHING. It's getting a little ridiculous. Also, reading "Love You Forever" by myself was a terrible idea. That really got the tears going! I really want to remember my bump. That may sound weird, but I've gotten so used to it, I basically don't remember not having it.

That's it! Let's see if I can get nursery/shower/other baby posts up before he gets here!

36 Weeks. Eeeek!

I think we should all just accept that blogging not a strong point for me at the moment. Moving on..... :)

I have officially reached "huge" pregnant. Oh what fun!!!

How Far Along: 36 Weeks. Only a few more days till this little guy is fully cooked!

Baby Size: Ah I have no clue.....over 6 pounds. A cantaloupe.

Total Weight Gain: 30 pounds!

Maternity Clothes? Yes, yes, and yes.

Stretch Marks? No, although I think they could happen.....my skin is pretty stretched to the max, so we will see :).

Sleep: Bleh. I don't like sleeping anymore. I either don't sleep or am only halfway asleep because I am so uncomfortable. My poor back! And hips! Oh to sleep on my stomach.....

Best moment this week: Well....a lot of good things! I got to see my mom and mom-in-law last weekend which was amazing. We had so much fun! I had 2  absolutely adorable showers and am officially stocked up and ready for him to GET HERE (stilllllll trying to finish all of those thank you cards!). We have somewhat finished his nursery (Holy Moly!), we got maternity pictures back and they are wonderful.... but mostly I've just been soaking up the kicks and hiccups that I know won't always be inside of me :(.

Miss Anything? Well, normal sleep. Not grunting to get off the couch. But in all honesty, I'm sad that I won't be pregnant for much longer. I don't want him to grow up! I will miss it, I think.

Movement: Oh yes. He attacked me in church this morning till I was about to cry. He was all up in my ribs. He LOVES my ribs. Still gets the hiccups and loves to morph my belly into weird shapes. :)

Food Cravings: Nothing in particular.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Baby boy!

Symptoms: Sore back ALL. the. time. Calf cramps like crazy.

Labor Signs: I don't think so!

Belly button in or out? Hmmmm. Flat.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: I have never been so happy in my life!!!

Looking forward to: Nesting. Pampering myself a little bit before D-Day. Meeting him. Naming him. And spending some quality time with his daddy before he arrives :). 

Things to Remember (this is new): His daddy laying his head on my belly to talk to him (I didn't let him see me get choked up), his daddy FREAKING out when I got a bad calf cramp and bolted out of bed yelling some not so great words (apparently he is on edge that I will go into labor at any minute), going into his nursery right when I wake up just to sit and think about him actually being there. Cheesy yes, but true :).

 

 

I have a LOT to catch up on! Talk to you all later!!!

34 Weeks

Oh my gosh! I am so terrible. I know. You can always tell how crazy my life is by how often I'm blogging. Anyway....here is the 34 week post!

I forgot to take a belly picture this week....BUT we took our maternity pictures with the awesome Tiffany Harrison on Monday, so I'm using one from that shoot as a replacement. (I hope she doesn't mind me using it!) She is so so so amazing and I can't wait to see the rest :). She actually took me out for two sessions since our first one was really windy. Love her. Check out her website if you live in Lubbock! 

How Far Along: 34 Weeks. Only SIX more to go. Holy crap. 

Baby Size: I'm going to guess that he's around 6 pounds by now, and getting fatter by the minute :).

Total Weight Gain: 28 pounds as of my last appointment.

Maternity Clothes? Yep.

Stretch Marks? Nope.

Sleep: I've been waking up a few times each night. My hips hurt sometimes, and every once in while I'll wake up lying on my back (Whoops!). I don't like to use all those pregancy pillows and wedges though--normally I just hitch my leg up on Bryan's back for support haha. Luckily he doesn't seem to mind :).

Best moment this week: Ah, so much has happened since my last update! I finally felt him have the hiccups on March 16th, and he's had them several times since then :). I loved my shower, getting maternity pictures, finding a wonderful doula to work with (!), getting the nursery more put together, and getting an awesome prenatal massage yesterday for FREE!

Miss Anything? No. Now I'm freaking out about missing pregnancy when he's out. Just trying to soak it up :).

Movement: Of course! Hiccups. So cute! And he LOVES to stretch his whole body out the second I lay down to nap. Not comfortable at all, but I'll take it :).

Food Cravings: I've really wanted sweets lately. I've been baking a lot to satisfy that haha.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Gender: Sweet baby boy.

Labor Signs: No. Just Braxton Hicks. I'm kind of freaking out though that he could really come at any moment now. Our ultrasound tech told us that her little girl decided to come at 34 weeks. I was a little stunned because we are no where close to being ready!

Belly button in or out? The top is out? I don't know. It changes every day.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: I have never been so happy in my life.

Looking forward to: Finishing the nursery, getting to see my mom and MIL this weekend, my showers this weekend, getting more prepared to actually have him (!), and of course....meeting him for the first time :).

Have a great week! Oh--my goal is to have the nursery pictures up either the first or second week of April! Yay yay yay!

A Sweet Little Shower.

My mom is pretty freakin' awesome. She is one of my best friends and I miss seeing her all the time. She is so awesome in fact, that she threw me basically the cutest shower on the planet this past weekend. I loved loved loved the "Vintage Birdcage" theme that she went with and I love her even more :).

(The cutest cupcakes around)

Why yes, those are pictures of Bryan and I as babies. Including the infamous "moo bar" photo that is my family's all-time favorite. I loved me some ice cream! (Still do!)

I made these little cards per my mom's request. They will be perfect for the baby book! I'm thinking of bringing them to my other showers as well because I loved reading everyone's responses. Definitely a keepsake!

The food table set-up was just perfect. And I'm pretty sure that I ate about 15 of those mini bundt cakes. Whoops :).

My mom gave away cute little candles and mini pots of pansies for favors. They were a hit and I'm kicking myself for only getting one picture of them. AND for not getting pictures of any of the guests! I ran around like a mad woman getting pictures before the shower started, but then started talking with everyone and forgot about my camera. Oops. I'm also mad that I didn't get a picture of my mom and I together....but I suppose I can get one when she's here in a few weeks though, so it's all good. :)

I also learned that I make many interesting faces while opening gifts. Have I ever mentioned that I'm an awkward person? Well, I am, and at showers it is definitely multiplied by like 1,000. At one point, I even waved at one of the guests while thanking her for her gift. If you think that is bad, you should have seen me at Lingerie Showers a few years ago! I pretty much took the cake as "Queen of Awkwardness" at those things.  

We were insanely spoiled by everyone that came. (Thanks ladies!) My car was literally filled to the brim when I headed back to Lubbock and I am SO very thankful to still have such great friends back in Denver that are so excited to meet our little boy!

I loved every minute that I was able to be home and am already wanting to go back :(. I miss my mom and dad so much but am happy that I get to see them more in the next few months! (Of course, there will be another little someone to steal the show by then haha!)

So, I'm still alive, just busy getting ready for bay-bay. And OF COURSE I will post pictures of the nursery once it's done. I'm suprised ya'll even had to ask! :) Have a great Thursday!



P.S Be sure to check out my giveaway over at Michaela Noelle Designs!! If you need an inviation or blog buttons....head on over. :)

Love that girl!! The giveaway will be open until next Wednesday :).

32 Weeks.

I am a terrible blogger! I had several posts planned for this week and never got around to writing them.... Sorry about that... :)

How Far Along: 32 Weeks! Only 8 more to go :).

Baby Size: According to our ultrasound on Wednesday, he is a whopper. Almost 18 inches long and 4lbs 14oz.  The tech said that his bones are measuring longer than other babies do at 32 weeks. While this might freak some out, I'm very proud of my big healthy baby :).

Total Weight Gain: Oh I have been dreading putting this on the blog....26 pounds! Up 4 pounds in 2 weeks :).

Maternity Clothes? Yes!

Stretch Marks? No!

Sleep: Starting to toss and turn from side to side, but still sleeping pretty well.

Best moment this week: Definitely getting to see him at our big ultrasound on Wednesday! He is quite the chunk already and it makes me SO happy! Everything looked great and he is as healthy as can be. I cannot wait to kiss those huge cheeks :).

Miss Anything? Nothing much at the moment.

Movement: Still moving like crazy. He is head down (sighs in relief) for now, so I'm getting pretty good at guessing what body part is moving/kicking me.

Food Cravings: Apples. And I really want a donut at the moment. Oh, and orange juice.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Gender: Definitely a boy!

Labor Signs: Nope! I'm getting a little achy down low and have had TERRIBLE calf cramps but I don't think either of those are related to starting labor.

Belly button in or out? Alright, the top is officially out. It is weird. Have I have mentioned that I had my belly button pierced? Oh, the bad decisions that one makes at 15. Anyway, I can now see both ends of the piercing quite clearly, although they aren't stretched out (thank goodness). I'm hoping it will go back to normal after he's born!

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy and excited!!!

Looking forward to: My first shower this weekend while I'm at home! Spring break, finishing the nursery, my other showers in a few weeks, getting everything ready for him to be here!

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

 

 

 

31 Weeks

Baby Boy,

Your Dad and I met at church when I was in middle school, while sitting in the youth group room one of the first Sundays after my family had moved to Colorado. I remember seeing him for the first time (he had been asked to say a prayer) and very casually thinking to myself, "Well, if I have to marry anyone in here, it would be him."  Little did I know that this silly thought at the age of 13 would begin a very fun journey that would eventually lead to YOU! 

You will quickly learn that your Dad and I are complete opposites in just about every way. I wonder almost daily why on earth God chose to put him with me and send up "thank you" prayers every day for the fact that He did. Your Daddy is one of the most genuine and attentive people that I know. He listens like no one else does, and works extremely hard to make life better for his (growing) family. Sure, we argue, we say things we regret, and we both make many mistakes, but we are so happy together and work at loving each other more and more every day. I think that it's very important for you to know that. 

By the time you read this, you will know that your Daddy is pretty reserved and I often find myself wishing that I knew what he was really thinking about. I do know however, that he spends a lot of his time thinking about you. A few weeks ago, we were both at home and I couldn't find him anywhere in the house. I eventually walked into the nursery and found him standing in the closet just looking at all of your clothes. He absolutely hates when I make a big deal out of things, so I just kind of turned around and acted like I hadn't seen anything. Then, two nights ago, we were lying on the couch watching TV and playing the always-entertaining game of "Watch The Belly Move". Your Dad had himself propped up next to me with his arm pressed against the side of my stomach since we were a bit squished. I guess it was warm right where his arm was because you stopped moving all over my stomach and just started kicking right in that spot. Big kicks. I kept saying things like, "Look Bryan, he knows you're right there, he's saying hi!" He didn't say anything back, he just smiled, and we went back to watching TV. About 20 minutes later, I noticed that he hadn't moved a muscle and was still sitting propped up with his arm in the same spot. I told him that he looked uncomfortable to which he replied, "Yeah, my arm's asleep, but I don't want to move." That just about broke my heart. He was spending time with you, and even though he didn't say it, I am sure that he was thrilled with the fact that you seemed to know who he was for just a little while.

He cannot wait to meet you and I can't wait for you to know him. He is a wonderful husband and will be a great father. When I think about the person I want you to be when you grow up, I hope that you have a few of my characteristics, but mostly, I hope that you are like him. I know that you will be SO obsessed with him and will run to the door when he gets home from work. I know that you will beg me to drive to out of town games so that we can watch him coach. I know that you will happily be his golfing buddy even before you are really able to play yourself. I know that you will feel so honored when he asks you to say a prayer before dinner because you're a "big boy". I can't wait to see the two of you together! There are so many more things I want to tell you about your dad, but I'm sure that you will learn them for yourself in time. You, my little boy, are very, very lucky to have the Daddy that you have.

Love, Mom

(Sorry for the forever long  and extremely sappy letter, but this one was very important for the baby book! Happy weekend!)

30 Weeks

Gasp! I am looking at the camera! Ho-ly crap. I know. I gathered up my courage and posed for the tri-pod. You're welcome. :)

How Far Along: THIRTY weeks. See ya later twenties!  

Baby Size: 15.7 inches long, 3 pounds. Getting chunky....ahhhhh can't wait!

Total Weight Gain: Ahem, 22 pounds. :)

Maternity Clothes? Yes, although I'm still squeezing into normal pants as well. See those jeggings? Yeah, they aren't buttoned or zipped. Thank you, spandex.

Stretch Marks? Nope.

Sleep: Sleeping like a baby!

Best moment this week: Well...I finished a really good childbirth book called "A Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskins. A little extreme for me, but still had some great thoughts! Hearing his strong heartbeat at our last appointment. 145!!

Miss Anything? Being able to wear normal clothes. I still shop like I'm skinny. I keep picking up cute little pencil skirts and then realizing....oh wait. I'm pregnant. It's totally worth it though!

Movement: So. Much. Movement. I absolutely love it. He has been determined to stretch his little body out all day today, and although it's a little painful, I still can't get enough!

Food Cravings: Hmmm, nothing in particular. Although I am pretty pumped to head to the NEW Panda Express (it just opened yesterday) with a friend here in about 30 minutes. STARVING.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope!

Gender: He's ALL boy :)

Labor Signs: No, but I think I've had a few Braxton Hicks contractions....very strange feeling.

Belly button in or out? Getting flatter as each day passes. Bryan is actually kind of obsessed with commenting on it. :)

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Very happy. Getting a little overwhelmed with how much there is left to do before the big arrival!

Looking forward to: Finishing the nursery, childbirth classes, making a trip to CO in a few weeks to see the padres, and my showers!!!!! So much fun ahead!

Excuse the amount of smiley faces and exclaimation marks in this post. I have no clue how else to express my excitement haha. Have a wonderful weekend!!

29 Weeks

(Excuse my crazy hair and the different angle. It was raining so I had to put the tri-pod somewhere dry!)

Baby Boy,

You have been in my tummy for 29 weeks today. There are only 11 more weeks until I get to meet you! While this whole experience is flying by, I'm starting to get very impatient at the thought of getting to see you for the first time. You've developed a little personality in my belly and I now have this mental image of not only what you look like, but what you are thinking when you do certain kicks and punches throughout the day. I always announce when you start having a kick party and your daddy always attributes it to what I have been eating, watching, or doing. We have learned that you love really sweet things (like the raspberry cookies I made last night) and when I lay on my side to talk to you. Your dad's hands seem to have a calming effect on you since you can be kicking up a storm until he touches my stomach. You just go still, like you know he's there and you want to be on your best behavior.

We have come to the decision this week that we are going to name you once you are born. It needs to be perfect for you so we want to wait and see what name you look like. I have finally reached the point in my pregnancy that I get to go to the doctor's office and listen to your heartbeat every two weeks instead of every month! I feel so cool; like I'm in a "Third Trimester Club" (You will learn that I am a huge nerd). Your nursery is coming along quite nicely, and I always sit and imagine you playing on the floor with all of the fun things that we have started getting for you. Sometimes your dad and I will lean over the crib rails and talk about how exciting it is that you will be laying there in just a couple of months.

The day you arrive will be the most life-changing day in either of our lives. I hope that you realize as you grow up just how blessed we are to have you, no matter what happens. I know that God already knew who you were even when I was a little girl who was just starting to daydream about having babies of my own one day. He had you planned for me before I ever even knew it, and I am SO thankful that he chose me to be your momma. I hope and pray every day that I can be the type of mother that God wants me to be for you. There is so much fun to come in the future!

Love,

Your momma

Registering for the Babe.

Hello, hello! Bryan and I spent much of last weekend registering for baby boy. Before I was pregnant, I knew that babies and kids had a lot of gear that went along with them from babysitting and working at a daycare and whatnot, but man....I had NO idea that it was this much! I spent 4 hours in Target last Saturday. FOUR. I was alone, tired, hungry, and eventually had to sit down for an icee and popcorn break just to get my mind off of breast pumps. I dreamt about strollers all weekend! Insanity people....and I'm not even sure I got to everything that we need.


Today, I thought I would share just a few of the items that we registered for. Many may find this boring (or enlightening), but I'm hoping that the moms and mommas-to-be out there will appreciate it. :)

1.  Aden and Anais Swaddle Cloths - I've heard SO many great things about these things. Apparently they keep babies all bundled up without getting them too hot. They are pricey, but I hear that it's worth it.

2. Baby Balboa Shopping Cart Cover - I love the print on this one! My sister-in-law (who I could have not registered without - thanks Alisha!) was very adamant that I register for one of these since she uses hers all the time.

3. Love You Forever - How could I not register for this? I remember my mom reading it to me when I was little and I would love to do the same for our son. Of course, I can't even think about opening it now because I would probably start sobbing. Oh, the hormones.

4. Boon Grass Countertop Drying Rack - I'm kind of obsessed with this thing. I'm not really loving the thought of having bright colored, plastic baby toys and and supplies all over my house (just being honest), but I think that this will look really cute right next to the kitchen sink! Perfect for the many bottles I am sure to wash and dry in the next few years :).

5. Phil & Teds Dash Buggy Stroller - Holy crap this is by far the most expensive thing on my registry...which I feel terrible about, but I'm just so in love with this thing it's not even funny. :) I've heard SO many great things about Phil & Teds strollers, and since I wanted one that I could run with once baby boy is big enough, this stroller just seemed to be the perfect fit. It also converts into a double stroller for when more kiddos come along AND I'm justifying the price even more since I plan on using it for all of our babies. I'm crossing my fingers that we can get it on Zulily or Amazon though, since the price is about $200 less. Here's hoping!

6. Maxi-Cosi Mico Infant Car Seat - Another great brand that I've done quite a bit of research on. I've read that they are super light, safe, AND celebrities use them. Well, that obviously means that I needed to register for one, right? I also really loved the Peg Perego and Chicco brands, but decided to go with this one for now since it looks really clean and has great quality fabric.

7. Aveeno Baby Bath Products - I'm pretty sure a ton of moms use this brand for their babies. Can't wait to try them on my little one! I also can't wait for that baby smell that no shampoo or soap can give :).

8. Aden and Anais Burpy Bibs - Yet another Aden & Anais product, but I really don't think I could have registered for too much from this brand. Can't wait to use them!

9. Moby Wrap Baby Carrier - I'm actually really excited to use this (if baby boy likes it). I figure that it will be great if we are just running errands or taking a walk. It seems pretty easy to put on (I watched the video tutorial, of course) and very safe for baby boy no matter how big he gets! (Well, there's obviously a weight limit, but it should work for the first year!)

So tell me, what are some of your favorite baby brands and must-haves when it comes to gear for your little one? I love hearing about all of this, especially since I was so clueless before!

28 Weeks.

How Far Along: 28 WEEKS! Officially in the third trimester!!!! I feel so cool.

Baby Size: 15 inches long, about 2.5 pounds

Total Weight Gain: I'm going to guess around 20 pounds.... :)

Maternity Clothes? Yep! I am living in my Gap maternity "always skinny" jeans and my collection of maternity tops is steadily growing as well. I can still wear my normal flowy shirts and jeans with a bella band though :).

Stretch Marks? Not yet....

Sleep: Still sleeping wonderfully. I'm starting to feel tired during the day again....which I'm not a fan of.

Best moment this week: Getting my shower dates set!! I'm so excited! Bryan and I are going on a "registry date" tonight as well. I also booked a newborn photographer today!! Can't wait to see little man's first pictures. :)

Miss Anything? This week the whole "missing being skinny" thing hit. I saw a picture of myself from last summer and was like "Dang! Why did I ever think I had fat days?" haha! OH, and I miss having a normal brain. I "dried" a load of laundry a few days ago and opened the dryer when it was done to find it empty. I never moved the clothes over from the washer. OMG.

Movement: Of course! He is very active all the time, and LOVES to stick his little feet underneath my rib cage. It is the most bizarre feeling on the planet!

Food Cravings: I've wanted donuts all day today. Why can't I be one of those preggos that craves fruit?

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope! Hallelujah.

Gender: Sweet little boy!!!

Labor Signs: No thank goodness!

Belly button in or out? Barely an innie. I guess I could start calling it a "flattie".

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy happy happy.

Looking forward to: Registering, showers, finishing the nursery, maternity pictures, starting childbirth classes in a few weeks, getting to go to the doctor every two weeks instead of every month (!), and of course....meeting our little boy. :)

Have a fun and happy weekend! Hopefully I will have some fun V-day and nursery update posts next week!