OB Triage and the Antepartum Unit

That's where Babe and I have landed ourselves...

I mentioned my stomach bug in my last weekly update, and I'm sad to say it's still lingering.  This is day 5.

When I paged the on-call doctor over the weekend he told me it would be best to go to the hospital then; I, however, felt like things were improving and didn't want to waste a trip to the hospital.  I woke up on Monday feeling less lethargic and more optimistic, but still had to run to the bathroom within minutes of eating or drinking anything, and had no appetite or thirst.  Casey and my mom urged me to at least call my doctor; and she told me to go to the hospital for IV fluids.  So Grammy left work to take over Lucy Duty (since Monday is usually Mommy and Lulu Day), and Casey and I got to the hospital around noon.  We were taken back to OB Triage right away; they examined me, gave me Zofran and Immodium, listened to Babe for over an hour, gave me IV fluids, and took blood for labs.  You have no idea how hard it is to say the phrase, "I haven't really been able to urinate..." when asked to produce a urine sample.  The hospital doctor came in just before 5:00 pm to review my blood test results.  In addition to being dehydrated, my Potassium levels were extremely low.  He called Dr. O, and they decided to keep me overnight for a Potassium IV and monitoring.  Casey left to grab some clothes and tooth brushes, and I was moved to the Antepartum Unit.

The room was spacious and much more comfortable than Triage.  (Seriously, Scottsdale Healthcare > Banner Good Samaritan.)  My Potassium IV was started shortly after, and that's when I died.  Kind of.  The nurse warned me that Potassium is one of the most painful medications to administer via IV, and that it might "sting a little".  (Oral medication was not an option because it can cause nausea and vomiting.)  I felt the Potassium as soon as the IV was started.  Normally, I consider my pain tolerance to be pretty high, but that Potassium turned me into the most pathetic thing.  I couldn't move my hand, I couldn't think, I could barely speak, and I even started shaking.  And it really sucked because my cell phone was dead and Casey wasn't back yet, so I was completely alone with the TV stuck on the channel guide - because my hand was immobilized from the pain.  It felt like my arm was on fire and every bone was being crushed.  I paged the nurse after 6 whole minutes, and she tried three different combinations of drip speeds and dilutions before finding something that wasn't completely miserable.  The plan was to have four bags administered over four hours, and then a blood draw two hours after the last bag.  Casey got back around 8:00 pm, and we spent the night watching movies and eating broth, as I've been restricted to a clear liquid diet.  My last bag of Potassium ended at 11:30 pm, had my blood drawn at 1:30 am, and a visit from Dr. O shortly after (she was in the hospital for a delivery).  She said if my levels were normal in the morning, I could be discharged first thing.

We woke up early, at 5:00 am, because Casey had to leave for work, and I started getting sick at 5:30.  Which was unexpected.  Like, really unexpected.  I've been sick four more times, and now I'm just hanging.  No one really knows what to do with me.  They're running more tests, and gave me more Zofran and Immodium.  Now we wait and see what Dr. O wants to do.  There's a chance I'll be here another night, and there's a chance I'll get discharged.  Will be sure to keep everyone updated!

26 Weeks and an "OB Problem"

How far along?  26w1d

How big is baby?  Head of lettuce!  He is 13.6-14.8 inches long and weighs 1.5-2.5 pounds; his eyes are forming and will open soon, eyelashes have grown, his immune system is developing, and he's taking practice breaths (of amniotic fluid). 

Physical differences from last week?  I've lost almost 6 pounds in the last 3 days...  I weighed 127.8 on Wednesday, and it's been dropping due to a stomach bug that Lucy and I have been sharing since Thursday night; this morning I was 122.4.  I'm pretty dehydrated, all traces of swelling are gone, and my bump even seems smaller.  Not ideal for tomorrow's growth ultrasound...

How I'm feeling?  (Pre-bug) I was experiencing nightly, mild swelling in my hands and feet, lower back pain, and heartburn - my relationship with buffalo chicken is officially over until August.  The big craving this week was for turkey burgers from the little cafe by my office.  (Post-bug) I am nauseous, achy, weak, and in the bathroom every 15 minutes.  The only time I'm not completely miserable is when I'm sleeping.  I have no appetite; I'm extremely sensitive to all smells; and I can't walk across the house or even hold Lucy. 

What's been on my mind?  (Pre-bug) accomplished a few things on my pregnancy checklist: researched circumcision, made my birth plan, pre-registered with the hospital, and I think we've even decided on a name for Babe! 

What I'm looking forward to?  Seeing Baby Boy on the big screen tomorrow, hopefully hearing some good news about his growth, and being healthy again.

Best moment this week?  Hugged Casey and Babe kicked him in the leg. 

Onto my "OB Problem"...  That's the kind of appointment I had Thursday afternoon.  My c-section incision has been causing all sorts of problems from the beginning of this pregnancy.  It previously only hurt when I went from sitting to standing, or really overexerted myself, but now it's a constant source of pain.  It's also extremely swollen, to the point of being lopsided.  I tried researching online to see if the pain and swelling were typical of subsequent pregnancies, but couldn't find any information; just the opposite, most women experience total numbness in the surrounding area.  I reluctantly called my doctor Thursday morning, and she had me come in the same day.  She ruled out infection, and thinks the problem is a swollen ligament or hernia.  She recommended icing it and a maternity support belt.  We'll monitor the swelling for the next month, and if there's no improvement, I'll be put in contact with a surgeon to repair the hernia.

Babymoon Dreams

We didn't take a babymoon with Lucy, and we won't with Babe either - at least not after seeing the daycare quote for two.  We're 21 years old.  The biggest financial obligation for most peeps our age is a car payment.  We don't have the means, and we don't really have the time to spare as we get closer and closer to third trimester.  That being said, I'm not sad or surprised.  I'm sure we'll still have that extravagant, kid-free vacation one day.  (Am still holding out hope for a Lucy-free weekend somewhere before Babe is born, be it in Casa de Shelton or a tent.)  In the meantime, let's all drool over my virtual babymoon at L'AUBERGE de SEDONA. 

Creekside massage??!  *swoon*

source

25 Weeks

How far along?  25w3d

How big is baby?  Cauliflower!  13.6-14.8 inches and 1.5-2.5 pounds; he has developed a sense of equilibrium (please Baby Boy, do NOT think that's an excuse to be breech), and he's getting chubby and hairy!

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 126.6 pounds on Saturday morning; which is a 1.5 pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of, meh, 17 pounds.  No new stretch marks, and the belly button is flat and sore; wearing regular pants and shorts, maternity tops and dresses (including some new pieces that I picked up over the weekend!).  The only exercise I got this week was from chasing Lucy around the house - which was plenty!  I've been asking my mom the same question every week since first trimester, "Have I gotten fat all over yet?"  Her answer has been no up until this week...  This week her response was, "Well your face is starting to get a little fuller".  /dies



Crappy cell phone picture at work...
(Hopefully I'll remember to post a proper picture tonight!)

How I'm feeling?  Pretty good overall!  Starting to feel achy by the end of the day and grunting when getting up from the floor or bending.  Two times this week I was overwhelmed with crazy pregnant lady emotion: when my meatloaf wasn't cooked through and Lu threw her third spoon on the floor, and then again at Auntie Fallon's Senior Dance Recital.  My two cravings were for Banana Dream Cake and Diet Pepsi.  Gasp!  I know what you're thinking...  You're thinking, "Z-OMG  she prefers Pepsi to Coke?!  she's drinking soda while pregnant?!!"  I'm totally ashamed, but I had this exact craving last time too.  If it's any consolation, I try to drink caffeine free, and limit myself to one glass a day.

What's been on my mind?  Redecorating the master bedroom.  (Seriously, can I be anymore pregnant?  Crying over meatloaf and now starting unnecessary renovation projects??)  Also, that I need to start my Hypnobirthing self-study soon.  Eep.

What I'm looking forward to?  Knocking out my pregnancy to-do list so that I can actually relax in the evenings before this kid is born, and swimming weather!

Best moment this week?  Finding this on Pinterest:

24 Weeks and Viable

Happy Viability Day, Baby Boy!  (You are sooo NOT welcome to join us yet, but at least you're able to if you absolutely must.)

How far along?  24w2d

How big is baby?  Grapefruit!  (Call me crazy, but isn't a cantaloupe larger than a grapefruit??)  Still 10.5-11.8 inches and 12.7-20.8 ounces; see-through skin is becoming opaque and pink.  

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 125 pounds on Thursday night at my prenatal visit; which is a 2 pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of 15.4 pounds.  I'm sort of indifferent about my weight gain these days.  Compared to the eating habits of my first pregnancy, I've been a saint; and my gain is perfectly normal.  Dr. O said my belly was measuring a few days ahead.  No new stretch marks and the belly button is flat (and tender!).  Wearing regular pants and shorts with the belly band, maternity tops and dresses.

How I'm feeling?  My incision is pretty achy; had two bloody noses during the week and some wicked bloody gums; significantly less heartburn (ironic...considering last week's purchase); and very painful BH contractions during Lu's bathtime/bedtime routine.  Haven't been able to get enough watermelon or sweet potatoes.  Also, still didn't get my brownie sundae - though my sweet brother made a darn good attempt. 

What's been on my mind?  Haha. 

What I'm looking forward to?  Tons coming up on the agenda!  We've got a growth ultrasound on May 21, Auntie Fallon's high school graduation on May 23, Glucose Test on May 31, and *squeeeeee* my baby shower on June 10.

Best moment this week?  Grammy got to feel Babe kick on Thursday, and we painted the nursery on Saturday!  (Pictures to come!!!)

23 Weeks

How far along? 23w1d

How big is baby?  Pomegranate!  Still measuring between 10.5-11.8 inches and 12.7-20.8 ounces; he's forming little nipples (good for you, buddy!) and his face is fully formed. 

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 123 pounds this morning, which means no gain from last week.  Blam-o!  And an overall gain of 13.4 pounds.  Belly button is flat and no new stretch marks to report.  Still wearing regular pants and shorts with the belly band, maternity shirts and dresses.  My floor-length maxi dress, that I wore here, is suddenly an ankle-length dress.  Thank you, Belly.

How I'm feeling?  I was uber nauseous two nights this week, which made it impossible to accomplish anything around the house.  Sleeping well, still have Sciatica, still have heartburn, yadda yadda yadda.  Haven't been as strict with my diet or exercise the past 2-3 weeks, and I'm starting to feel it.  Pretty sure the baby isn't growing in my ass or thighs, but they're growing nonetheless.  And, while we're on the subject, I've been craving a brownie sundae - specifically the one I ate every night during our Hawaiian cruise.

Busted out the big guns, courtesy of Costco...

What's been on my mind?  Babymoon.  I need one.  (Like yesterday.)  Hoping to sneak away in a few weeks.  Nothing too crazy, maybe just to here or here.    

What I'm looking forward to?  Cinco de Mayo and Maternity Leave.  I'm looking forward to Cinco de Mayo for two reasons:  1) Who doesn't love a Mexican feast?  2) We're painting the nursery!!!!!!

Best moment this week?  Babe following my hand with some pretty powerful kicks!

22 Weeks

How far along?  22w2d

How big is baby?  Papaya!  At this time the average fetus ranges in size between 10.5-11.8 inches and 12.7-20.8 ounces.  Going out on a limb and assuming my boy is on the larger end of that...  He's also beginning to look more like a newborn, with defined eyes and lips, and sleeping in cylces. 

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 123 pounds this morning; which is a 5 pound gain from two weeks ago, and an overall gain of 13.4 pounds.  Uggggg.  5 pounds in two weeks, really?  No new stretch marks and the belly button is flat.  Still wearing regular pants and shorts with the belly band, bikinis, maternity shirts and dresses.

Pretty sure I thoroughly terrified the woman in the Target dressing room.

How I'm feeling?  Wicked heartburn all week long; my throat is on FIRE.  I need to start being a little more strict with my diet, and I'm thinking about replacing our nightly walks with some elliptical time.  We only walked two times this week, because of the heat.  Starting to feel tired in the evenings and my feet are swelling ever so slightly...  Sciatica is getting worse, particularly in the mornings; I can almost always count on my right knee buckling when I roll out of bed.  Overall, though, I'd say that I'm experiencing significantly less back pain with this pregnancy than with my first.  Sleeping well when I get the chance.  I've been craving Mexcian food for weeks, specifically a chimichanga. 

What's been on my mind?  Baby names - made it through the letter J, and thinking about making DIY hanging wet bags.

What I'm looking forward to?  I'm making a pitcher of my famous sangria as soon as this kiddo is born.  Also, Horrible Bosses is quite possibly the funniest movie I've ever seen.

Best moment this week?  Buying the crib skirt and valance fabric.

21 Weeks

How far along?  21w2d

How big is baby?  Banana!  10.5 inches and 12.2 ounces; his digestive system is working hard and beginning to create meconium for his first diaper change. 

Physical differences from last week?  Didn't weigh in this week, but I'm sure I gained.  Some of my regular pants are starting to get tight, but most of my shorts still fit comfortably.  My belly and incision are super itchy; belly button is now flat and no new stretch marks to report. 

How I'm feeling?  Nesting, like whoa.  Sleep has become such a low priority - I'd rather clean.  Trips to the bathroom seem to have increased; having loads of BH contractions between the hours of 5:00-7:00 pm (when I'm chasing Lucy); and still moving around pretty easily.  We walked three nights this week, and I was NOT strict enough with my diet.  All of my cravings are sweet; I almost always want candy and I've wanted a muffin for weeks.  I finally caved and got a muffin on Friday.  It was wonderful, but I felt horribly guilty afterward. 

What's been on my mind?  Started shopping for a second freezer; reupholstering my current glider vs. buying a new one; and I finally started researching baby names.  I've made it through the letter F and still haven't found the perfect name, though there are several contenders. 

What I'm looking forward to?  Painting the nursery.  Hopefully it'll happen fairly soon...  I have all the paint and supplies.  Can't wait to get the furniture rearranged and see it come together!

Best moment this week?  Babe kicked while I was rocking Lucy on Thursday night, and I'm positive she felt it because she jumped up and looked at me.

20 Weeks

How far along?  20w2d and officially half-baked.

How big is baby?  Cantaloupe!  Dude, that just seems huge...  The average fetus is approximately 6.5 inches long and 10.2 ounces; he's developing taste buds and gulping down a whole lotta amniotic fluid. 

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 118 pounds at the doctor's office on Thursday; which is a 0.4 pound gain from two weeks ago, and an overall gain of 9 pounds.  No new stretch marks and the belly button is in.  Still wearing regular pants and shorts with the belly band, maternity shirts, maternity skirts and maxi dresses (LOVE).

How I'm feeling?  Shaving my legs is officially a challenge.  Bah!  Sleep has been great, with reasonable bedtimes and no trips to the bathroom.  We walked 3 or 4 nights this week, and I followed my diet for the most part, with the exception of Easter brunch.  I craved pretzels and those orange circus peanuts, and ate both.  BH contractions are raging in the evenings (after chasing Lucy around), but, overall, I feel great, and I'm thankful!

What's been on my mind?  Dr. O offered to prescribe me an anti-depressant at my visit on Thursday...  I said no, of course, but I'm embarrassed that she thinks I need it.  She said that she only prescribes in "extreme cases".  I'm doing everything I can to keep my baby from feeling my depression and stress (therapy, walking, yoga, deep breathing, prayer and meditation), but it might not be enough.          

What I'm looking forward to?  Having a finished nursery, a project that I haven't even started.

Best moment this week?  Seeing Baby Boy at the growth ultrasound and ECHO and hearing that his results were perfectly normal and healthy.

19 Weeks

How far along?  19w3d

How big is baby?  Mango!  6 inches long and 8.5 ounces (although yesterday's growth ultrasound showed Babe measuring 1 week ahead, in the 76th percentile, at 8 inches long and 11 ounces).  His little body is developing vernix caseosa, a protective coating over the skin, and the five senses.

Physical differences from last week?  I did not get a chance to weigh in this week (the scale is at my parents'), but I'm sure I'm up another pound or two - despite my dieting efforts.  No new stretch marks and the belly button is still in.  I'm wearing my regular pants with the belly band and maternity shirts.  And I'm sad to report that my boobs are starting to grow.  I'm probably the only woman that doesn't enjoy that side effect of pregnancy...

How I'm feeling?  Braxton Hicks contractions have officially started, as has sciatic nerve pain.  Two of my favorite things!  Haha.  Dizziness is still an occasional problem as well.  Lucy and I walked four times this week, and I followed my diet most of the time - pizza night and the Sweet Tomatoes brunch were so not within my carb allowance!  No specific cravings to report.  And sleep has been wonderful now that I've shifted the position of my Snoogle.

What's been on my mind?  How to arrange the furniture in the nursery. 

What I'm looking forward to?  The variety of annoying and inappropriate comments to come.  I've already gotten a few "You're huge" or "You're going to be really big again" comments; and I've gotten just as many, "You're so tiny!" comments.

Best moment this week?  Feeling outside baby kicks for the first time.

18 Weeks

How far along?  18w1d

How big is baby?  Sweet po!  5.6" long and 6.7 ounces; he's in the middle of a growth spurt, practicing his hiccups, yawns, sucking and swallowing, and moving like a ninja!  Love feeling all those kicks, Baby Boy!!!

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 117.6 this morning; which is a 1 pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of 8 pounds.  My belleh has become the designated crumb catcher.  Still wearing my regular pants with the belly band and maternity shirts; I bought some maternity leggings and they are super comfy!  No new stretch marks and the belly button is in, but shallow.

Try not to be too jealous of my cheetah print straightener.

How I'm feeling?  Umm...I actually fainted yesterday...in Destination Maternity.  Am thinking low blood sugar is to blame.  My legs buckled and I fell forward onto the cashier, everything went black, I couldn't speak, and I was covered in sweat.  So embarrassing.  And it's happened two more times since then...  Must call Dr. O in the morning.  It doesn't help that my allergies are acting up and I had a slight fever (100.6) yesterday afternoon.  Besides all that, though, I had tons of energy during the week.  We walked 3 nights and I followed my diet.  I craved corn dogs and fried pickles after watching Food Network...and I didn't get either.  ::sad face::  Insomnia is still a problem, but I sleep like the dead once I finally crash.  Also, having occasional painful twinges when I lift Lu out of the bath or car seat.

What's been on my mind?  There should really be some kind of disclaimer before tear-jerker scenes!

What I'm looking forward to?  Being half-baked in two weeks.

Best moment this week?  The déjà vu feeling at Lucy's party...  Right after she was born I dreamt about sporting a cute baby bump at her first birthday party. 

17 Weeks

***Extremely late***  Figured I should probably post this before my next weekly update. 

How far along?  17w5d

How big is baby?  Onion!  5.1 inches and 5.9 ounces; cartilage is turning into bone, he's finally putting a little meat on those bones, and the umbilical cord is growing larger and stronger. 

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 116.6 pounds on Saturday morning; which is a 2.6 pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of 7 pounds.  Ugggg.  I cringe at the thought of what my weight would be if I wasn't watching carbs and exercising.  Still wearing all pre-pregnancy pants with the belly band and maternity shirts.  So very proud of my ass for still being able to fit in my pants.  No new stretch marks and my belly button is approximately the size of a Tic Tac.  Also, a totally random pregnancy symptom, the skin on my hands is so grossly dry that they're actually cracking.

How I'm feeling?  Lots of energy.  We walked four times this week, and I stayed up until 11:00-11:30 each night baking and prepping for Lucy's party.  (When I did sleep) I had tons of dreams about Babe, mostly of what he'll look like.  In my dreams I'm staring at his face and rubbing his cheeks, and then I wake up to find my shirt has crept up and I'm rubbing my belly.  Oh, and my only craving was for buttermilk waffles, specifically the ones from Sweet Tomatoes...but I did not give in!  I actually followed my diet everyday but Wednesday, when I ate two cookies.  

What's been on my mind?  I'd like to start painting the nursery after Lulu's birthday party, and I'm thinking about making DIY crib skirts. 

What I'm looking forward to?  A bigger belly and stronger, more frequent baby kicks.

Best moment this week?  Seeing my reflection with a great big belly.  Also, being told that I'm "all belly".  Hello!  Best compliment you can give a pregnant lady!!!

Anatomy Scan and Sequential Blood Screen

Uggggg.  I don't want to write this post, I've been putting it off since Friday.  For the record, I have not cried this time.  I've stopped myself each time. 

The Anatomy Scan ultrasound was perfect.  (Did you notice my emphasis on perfect this and perfect that in my gender reveal?)  Those were the doctor's words.  She saw all four chambers of the heart, with no holes or shadows.  He was measuring one week ahead.  His nose, neck, and every other measurement exceeded the minimum requirements.  The doctor said those were all indicators of a very healthy baby and that she saw no markers for DS.  I left my appointment feeling reassured.

Then I got the call with the blood screen results on Friday afternoon...  If you remember, my first trimester blood screen showed an abnormally high risk for Down Syndrome (1 in 110).  My doctor explained to me that that risk is actually reduced by 1/3 to include error ratios and the NT Scan measurements; so my overall risk at the time was 1 in 330.  The sequential blood screen showed a risk of 1 in 86; which is also reduced by 1/3, putting my overall risk at 1 in 240. 

I have mixed emotions about that number.  At a glance, it's not so bad...it's still a less than 1 percent chance, especially when I think about the "perfect" ultrasound.  But...the ultrasound isn't really perfect.  Ultrasounds can only detect 2/3 of DS babies, meaning 1/3 of DS babies will appear perfectly healthy.  Not to mention my tendency to fall into the smaller, less likely percentages (having a breech baby, the failed version, cesarean section, I could go on and on).  And then I think about how my risk is 5 times higher than other women my age (1 in 1100)... 

It was our hope that the risk would decrease after the second screen, and that we could stop thinking about this altogether; but since the risk has increased, there will be more tests and more worrying.  I'm in the process of getting authorization from my insurance company for the MaterniT21 blood test.  The test is 99% accurate (second only to Amniocentesis) and poses no risk to the baby.  Unfortunately, the test is very new, and not all insurance companies cover it.  After MaterniT21, depending on the results, comes Amnio - which absolutely terrifies me.  I will have another ultrasound around 20 weeks with an echocardiogram of Babe's heart, in an effort to find any subtle heart defects. 

This is all so overwhelming...my doctor was talking about all the hypotheticals:  the need for specialists, the NICU, delivering at a different hospital, being induced early.  I wish I could curl up in a ball and sleep for the next 5 months.  I wish I never had the NT Scan.  I wish I could fix this.

16 Weeks

How far along?  16w0d

How big is baby?  Avocado!  4.6 inches long and 3.5 ounces; he can now hear my voice, he's growing hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows, and forming taste buds. 

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 114 pounds this morning; which is a 1 pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of 4.4 pounds.  Followed my diet pretty closely and walked two nights.  I feel like my belly exploded overnight; all of sudden I look like I could be 30 weeks pregnant!  Love my baby bump!!!  I wore maternity dresses and skirts all week long, but I am still able to wear regular sweat pants to bed and jeans with the belly band.  Stretch marks are still pretty pale and the belly button is shallow - I'm actually thinking about braving the bikini this summer.  Whoa!

Please excuse my Just Rolled Out of Bed look

How I'm feeling?  I have become obsessed with sugar free, decaf iced coffee; but for some reason a lot places don't offer it.  My trips through the Dunkin Donuts drive through led to a second craving...tuna salad on a plain bagel.  My energy varies by the day - there are days that I'm extremely motivated and accomplish a lot, and then there are days that I take 2 or 3 hour naps.  Also, got my first bloody nose on Wednesday, and another on Thursday.

What's been on my mind?  I'm worried with the sudden growth spurt that Babe will take after Uncle Cole and be 10+ pounds at birth...  Also, I miss wine.  A lot.

What I'm looking forward to?  More frequent and stronger movement.  I felt a lot of movement this week, especially whenever I held Lucy.  (I'm sure Babe could feel his big sister pressing on him.)   

Best moment this week?  Finding out that Lucy is going to have a baby brother!!!  Second best moment had to be this morning when Lucy started petting my belly and smushing her face against it.

Prenatal Visit:  I saw my doctor on Friday afternoon.  Those visits are always pretty uneventful...pee in a cup and listen to the heartbeat.  This time we discussed the results of the sequential blood screen that I had on Monday, which is deserving of it's own post...  Stay tuned!

It's a................

Welcome to my virtual gender reveal party!

All sources and other drool-worthy ideas can be found on my Pinterest.


The anatomy scan was this morning, where they not only found one perfect nose, one perfect heart, and all sorts of other perfect measurements...but also...A PENIS.  It's a boy, it's a boy, IT'S A BOY!  He was quite the exhibitionist, he had no problem showing off his boy parts.  The whole family is excited and cannot wait to meet you Baby Boy!!!!!!!!!

15 Weeks

How far along?  15w1d

How big is baby?  Navel orange!  2.5 ounces and 4 inches long; his proportions are becoming more normal, as his legs are now longer than his arms.  Babe is a wiggly thing, enjoying full use of his limbs and joints, and he's probably experiencing hiccups for the first time.   

Physical differences from last week?  I weighed 113.0 this morning; which is only a half pound gain from last week (yay!), and an overall gain of 3.4 pounds.  I've worn the belly band all week and even a few maternity shirts.  Belly button is shallow.  I've been buttering my belly like crazy in hopes of making my stretch marks a little less obvious.  This is the first week that I'm actually showing!  Hoorah!!!

 

How I'm feeling?  I have a lot of energy and some occasional dizziness.  My thyroid problem with Lucy left me exhausted and irritable, so this is a much appreciated change of pace.  Actually followed my diet all week AND walked every night before bed.  ::pats self on back::  Craved chocolate (which I resisted) and these stuffed mushrooms (which I literally made a special trip to the store for, and then devoured the whole batch)!  I wish all of my cravings were low carb.   

What's been on my mind?  The nursery.  Mostly when I should start painting and shopping.  Also thinking about buying a new glider, kinda like this:

 
What I'm looking forward to?  Anatomy scan TOMORROW!  Have you made your gender guess?

Best moment this week?  Finally starting to show!

Gender Guesses

In case you missed it, the ultrasound at 12 weeks indicated an 80 percent chance that Baby #2 is a little mister!  I am very excited at the thought of having a son.  BUT there is still a chance that there's a little lady in my belleh!  And I am equally as excited for that possibility.  I have an absurdly close relationship with my family.  My brother and sister aren't just my siblings, they are my best friends.  And the thought of Lucy having that kind of bond with her little brother or sister....well, that just makes me smile. 

Circa 1999

So...with the anatomy scan fast approaching (Monday!!), I thought it'd be fun to compare this pregnancy to some of the old wives tales and gender predictors. 

Extreme nausea means you are having a girl.  Nope, none at all!  Boy.
If your hands are dry, you are having a boy; soft -- expect a girl.  Dry and cracking.  Boy.
If you're craving citrus, you're having a girl.  Craving orange juice!  Girl.
If your skin breaks out, expect a girl.  Nope, no change.  Boy.
If you feel graceful during pregnancy, you'll have a girl. Clumsy? It's a boy.  Unusually clumsy.  Boy.
If you gain weight in your face, you're having a girl.  No (not yet).  Boy.
Craving salt? Expect a boy. Something sweet? You're having a girl.  Lots of sweet cravings.  Girl.
Feeling extremely moody? Expect a girl.  Nope.  Boy.
If baby is low, expect a boy. High, it's a girl.  Pretty low, but higher than it was with Lucy.  Boy.



14w5d

 If you're carrying in front, it's a boy. Carrying in your middle?  It's a girl.  Umm...middle.  Girl.
Chinese Gender Predictor:  Girl.
If your age and year of conception are both even or odd, it's a girl. One even, one odd means it's a boy.  Both odd.  Girl.
If your leg hair growth is slowing down, it's a girl.  Increasing?  It's a boy.  Pretty much grows back as soon as I finish shaving.  Gross, but true.  Boy.
If the baby's heart beat is more than 150 times per minute, you'll have a girl. Less than 150, a boy.  Always over 150.  Girl.
Motherly Intuiton:  I got nothin' (didn't with Lucy either).

Boy: 8; Girl: 6

Do you think Baby #2 is a boy or a girl?
Does anyone know of any other gender predictors? 

14 Weeks - Second Trimester

How far along?  14w1d

How big is baby?  Lemon!  I love lemons!!!  He is 3.4 inches long and weighs 1.5 ounces; kidneys, liver, and spleen are functioning properly, and he is growing lanugo hair all over his tiny body to keep warm. 

Physical differences from last week?  Weighed 112.6 pounds this morning; which is a TWO pound gain from last week, and an overall gain of 3 pounds....  Eff you, Skittles!  Officially in the (noticeably) awkward chubby stage.  I had to unbutton my pants for the first time on Wednesday night, and I've been wearing the belly band ever since.  No new stretch marks, but my old ones are becoming more noticeable.  Belly button is still in, but very shallow.  Maybe I'll have an outie this time! 

How I'm feeling?  Lots of round ligament pain, lower back pain and energy.  Nesting has officially kicked in, and by that I mean I stayed up until 11pm one night ironing and hemming curtains.  My appetite is suddenly out of control.  I'm now eating TWO snacks between breakfast and lunch - trying to keep it healthy.  Starting to get pretty uncomfortable after sitting for long periods of time, usually when I'm at work, so I'm trying to do a few stretches throughout the day.  Thank you prenatal yoga!

What's been on my mind?  Nursery decor.  I see a massive project every time I walk in there...painting, decorating, shopping, etc.  Pinterest is my best friend, for serious.  I've decided that I want to buy a matching crib, and convert Lucy's into a toddler bed.  Also came to the sad realization that I may have to get rid of my beloved changing table to make room for a dresser.

What I'm looking forward to?  9 days until the anatomy scan!!!  Dying to know if Babe is still a boy!   

Best moment this week?  Felt Babe kick on Friday night!  I'm fairly certain I've felt movement on two other occasions, but I'm absolutely positive about this last time.  Can't wait for those little kicks to get stronger!

25 weeks

Countdown to third trimester:  1 week!  Where has the time gone?  It blows my mind that we're almost 2/3 of the way through this pregnancy; it feels like just yesterday I took the pregnancy test.  I really liked second trimester; sure it would've been nice to have the bump a little sooner, but it was nice to feel like I had time.  Now I feel like we have to do 9 months of prep work in 3 months...

Baby is now the size of an:  eggplant!  She is approximately 13.5 inches long and weighs about 1.5 pounds.  Nostrils are officially unplugged, and very soon those little eyelids will pry themselves open for the first time.  Her sense of equilibrium has set in, and she is now able to determine right side up from upside down; maybe this is why she prefers to hang in breech position.  Hehehe.  Our active little baby can now make fists and grab her little feets.  And we've finally got some baby fat!  I fully expect this little baby to be quite the chunker; just look at her parents as babies:

Casey

Tay

How I'm feeling:  bulbous, verrrrrry bulbous; but I still feel pretty good overall.  Shaving my legs is officially challenging.  I experienced heartburn for the first time in my life earlier this week.  That was less than pleasant; fortunately, my darling husband brought me some Tums and milk and that seemed to help.  Apparently heartburn is a very common symptom, and its due to slower digestion.  I'm also having some cramps on the top of my belly and the bottom of my belly.  I'd like to blame growing pains, as I've  been growing rather rapidly the past two weeks; I'm hoping this isn't the start of Braxton Hicks contractions.  Oh ya, and I'm a big klutz; lots of Blonde Moments at work and lots of things have been dropped lately.  (I'm a natural blonde, so I'm allowed to make that comment)  ;-)

Physical differences from last week:  I think my boobs grew again....ugh!  Here is your weekly pic:

What's been on my mind:  registering, cloth diaper brands, snuggling with my little baby, blah blah blah.  Oh I know, during the week I was completely fixated on how our tiny house will not be nearly large enough to hold all of our babies Christmas presents next year.  Let alone presents for more than one baby in the years to come.  I guess we'll just have to move!  Hehehe

What I'm looking forward to:  Wednesday!  I have my last final at 6:30, and after that....I'm a free (wo)man!  I won't have to worry about any scholastic nonsense until next fall.  I will finally have my life back, I will finally have free time, I will finally be able to prepare for this baby! 

Random thoughts:  during the week I was sitting on the couch, and ze bebe was kicking away, so I lifted my shirt up and I just stared at my belly for ten minutes or so; my belly was jumping with every kick.  It was so funny to watch.  Then another time, Daisy was on my lap, and the baby kicked her right in the butt.  Daisy turned and looked at me with a puzzled look.  I think we have a future soccer player and/or kick boxer on our hands.

24 Weeks: Happy V-Day!!!

As of today, the baby is viable to survive outside the womb!  Yay!!!  Now, Baby Shelton, that is not an invitation to come out this very moment or in the near future; but I'm happy to know that if you had to come out now, you'd be safe.  :-)

Baby is now the size of a: papaya!  She is approximately 11.8 inches long and 21 ounces.  The baby's skin is becoming less translucent, but it is still very thin and wrinkly; this is because her body is making her skin more quickly than fat.  Her lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory tree, and cells are producing the necessary substances that will help the air sacs inflate once she leaves the womb.  Also her hand and footprints are forming, and she is starting to kick in response to sounds and touches.  The nurse at my OB's office said the baby is still extremely active (see Random Thoughts).


How I'm feeling:  itchy.  I swear that I bathe, people! But last night I was laying in bed and I had an itch attack.  My belly, lower back, and chest were on fire!  OMG, sooooo unpleasant.  I still feel great though; all my regular symptoms are still present, I've just pushed them to the back of my mind.  I'm scheduled to have my blood glucose test at my next prenatal visit.  The results of this test will determine if I have Gestational Diabetes; I really don't think I do.  Casey and I are very familiar with the symptoms of high blood sugar (obviously), and I'm not feeling any of those symptoms.  Just the opposite actually, I get very light headed/dizzy whenever I stand up too fast or get too hungry.  Oh, and I think my feet are officially starting to swell.  Yesterday I noticed my slippers cutting into my feet.  LOL!  Really its not funny, its pretty hideous, but fat feet are just silly.

Physical differences from last week:  I think I finally had my second trimester growth spurt!  Better late than never, huh?  Well my uterus is now the size of a soccer ball!  Annnnd I'm up 15 pounds.  Surprisingly, I'm not upset.  I mean, I'm not happy about the weight gain, but it is well within the normal range for someone being 6 months along.  If I keep up this weight gain rate, I should end up gaining about 31 pounds total.  I was hoping to only gain 30 pounds total...maybe I should lay off the lemonade.  Any who...here is your weekly pic:

What's been on my mind:  well I got my weekly birthday email this morning, and the first sentence was, "If you don't already know how to spot the signs of preterm labor, now's the time to learn."  Ya, that is a little stressful.  Apparently 12% of women give birth preterm.  I really, really do not want to be apart of that percentage; as much as I want to meet my little baby, we are just not ready!  And, of course, the little one still has some major developing to do.  Also, I downloaded a to-do list from The Bump during the week, and OMG the list is huge!  Naturally I have done nothing towards this list (yet). 

What I'm looking forward to:  school being over and getting that baby to-do list checked off!  SO MUCH TO DO. 

Random thoughts:  Allow me to share a funny story...I had my monthly prenatal visit on Thursday, and when the nurse put the doppler on my belly, Baby Shelton became verrrrrrrry active.  She kicked four times in less than a minute.  The nurse kept moving her hand, and the baby kicks would follow her hand.  I just burst out laughing; I usually do anytime she kicks a few times in a row.  Lately it feels like my belly has become a dryer, and the baby is just constantly tumbling around, kicking up a storm.  I actually saw the baby move under my skin yesterday morning.  I have been waiting for weeks to see this!  At first it was a tad creepy, like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it made me very happy nonetheless.