Thursday, December 26, 2013

3 weeks and Merry Christmas

First things first... Great news Richards weight gain is back on track!  At his two week appointment he was still well below his birth weight and we were tasked with bulking him up.  So from last Monday to Thursday he gained 5 oz from pumping and breast feeding then bottle feeding him what I had pumped.  Fast forward one week and he is up another 14.5 oz!!! He is currently 9 pounds 12 ounces.   

We had a great Christmas!  It was different this year without Dad but everyone worked hard to make this year special, and it was!  

Tonight we are going to give his crib a try... Not sure if we should mess with the good schedule we have going but we shall see!

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

2 Weeks

We've made it to 2 weeks!  What a blur things have been of feedings, poopy diapers and trying to get sleep in whenever.  This is being a Mommy!  Things have been going pretty well for the most part.  He is feeding every 2-3 hours and he is overall a very happy alert boy.  I had a little shock yesterday at his 2 week check up come to find out he hasn't gained more than an oz in the past 8 days.  I wasn't sure what to think since he should be well above his birth weight by now and he is still under.  He feeds regularly and I'm not sure why he isn't gaining.  So I have to have a follow up with the lactation consultant (Bev) on Thursday.  We introduced a bottle yesterday to feed him with what I am pumping in between feedings.  He is great with the bottle and I am sure his weight will be up by Thursday.  He is downing 2 oz after feeding off of both sides.

I'm going to be honest it was a very rough day yesterday.  It is hard to hear your one job (feeding your baby) and you are pretty much failing.  I cried, a lot, but now see I was just doing the best I could.  So I continue feeding and pumping and giving him the bottle and know that we will get through this and he will gain weight.
Official stats from this appointment:
Weight 8 pounds 10 oz - 55%
Length 22" - 56%
Head Circ 37.5" 58%

Here are a couple pictures:

Cheering on the Packer's!

Alert!

Asleep!

Hanging out listening to Mom play guitar.
As for me, I'm starting to feel like things below are healing.  I don't feel like I need to take pain medication as frequently anymore.  I haven't weighed myself in awhile, but as of last week I had already lost 27 pounds!  I wish I could take him out for a walk in the stroller, but since it is the middle of winter and often times below 0 that isn't going to happen any time soon.  Next week is Christmas and things will be busy, but I think it will be nice to get out of the house again.  Happy Holidays!

Julie

Saturday, December 7, 2013

He's Here!!!

What a crazy week it has been!  Richard Roger arrived 12/1/13 weighing 9 pounds, 21-1/2 inches at 7:14 PM after 20 hours of labor and a natural vaginal birth.  I started feeling contractions on Thanksgiving but they were irregular and spaced far apart.  Friday they became a little more regular, but almost an hour apart but slowly getting closer together.  We were out at my Mom's all day and decided it would be best to go back home for the night.  I was in pain most of the night from the contractions that were now about every 15-30 minutes.  Saturday around 12:00 PM we decided to go to the hospital and check how far things had come along.  Still only 1cm so they sent us back home saying it could be that night...it could be in a week.  UGH!  I felt okay still though and we got back home and took it easy.  Finally around 8PM I decided to try and sleep for a bit and little did I know it was the last sleep I would get for a very long time.  Things started heating up and by 9PM I was having some pretty serious contractions growing up to 11:00 PM when I was feeling terrible.

I would switch between laying and standing and Dick would stand behind me and push on my back to help relieve the pain.  By 3:00 AM contractions were consistently 5 minutes apart and I couldn't stand it and we packed up and went to the hospital.  We got settled in by 3:30 AM and seriously it was a blur.  They checked me and hooked me up to monitors.  Contractions were 3-4 minutes apart and it was on!!!  It stayed this way until I could get to 3-4 cm which happened around 9:30 AM the next morning.  Then it was time for the epidural.  Ahhhhh relief!!!  I finally was able to get comfortable enough to sleep a little more.  As the day progressed I dilated very slowly, and I thought I wouldn't ever get there.  The afternoon rolled around and I was still only around 5-6 cm.  I remember getting to 7cm and the pressure was getting intense.  The epidural was still working, but they told me it wouldn't help for the pressure of the baby and how low he was.  At that point I feel like it was a blink of an eye and I was fully dilated!  They asked me how the pain was and if I was somehow able to wait, the baby would naturally be pushed down and would save me some pushing time.  I was able to wait another hour.  Finally I decided I couldn't stand it anymore and needed to push.  The nurses got me started and I pushed and pushed and they called the doctor to come in.  My regular OB wasn't in so I had the OB on call Dr. Moktar.  She was WONDERFUL!  I pushed for an hour and with some screaming like I was being murdered HE arrived!  I was crying my eyes out, he was finally here!  It was so surreal that everything we waited for the past 4 years had finally arrived and the wait was over.  I'm crying again as I'm writing this.  Anyways, we stayed until Tuesday mid-day and they sent us home.  I'm sure there are details I am missing, but it has been hectic around here figured out balancing feeding (exclusively breast feeding for now) and changing poopy diapers and staying sane. 

Thursday night I spoke with our church and we arranged a private baptism after the PM church service.  So 12/5 Richard was baptized with just the Pastor and Dick and I present (and God :) ).  We will do public affirmation after the craziness of the holidays.  I've always wanted my baby baptized as soon as possible since I never understood the reasons for waiting to be convenient.  We have plenty of time now to plan the public affirmation and our baby is baptized in the Lord.  Anyways, quick before I need to feed the little man again here are some photos:








 

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

New Look, OB Update and Thanksgiving Review

How do you like the new look.  I feel like every time I go to change things I find a cool new feature! 

My OB Update is really not an update because not much has really changed.  Cervix is still softening, but no dilation at this point.  The OB rooted around in there quite a bit and caused some bleeding, but still no contractions at this point.  However, she said it can change quickly.  My next appointment will be next Tuesday at 1:15 (one day past my due date) that we will begin to discuss our options if nothing has happened at that point.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I'm so happy this year that we have so much to be thankful for.  I can't help but just think back exactly one year to this time.  Remember this?  Right before Thanksgiving we found our 3rd and final attempt at IUI didn't work.  I remember my world falling apart.  I drank too much wine at Thanksgiving and spent most of it sleeping on a very small couch in my brother's basement in a turkey and wine induced coma.  It wasn't pretty by any means.  Thankfully I was able to pull myself back together shortly after and start preparing for my IVF cycle. 

So many things have changed, some good and some bad.  As you know, we started out the year preparing for the IVF cycle, one cancelled cycle in January and full charge in February resulting in a POSITIVE beta in March!  April brought a much needed career change for me and then in May a much needed career change for Dick.  We cruised through spring and summer which in August brought some bad news, the passing of our beloved Bosko.  While I can't say I'm thankful for losing him, I am thankful that he isn't suffering and I know we made the right decision at the time to let him go. 

September we started to heal from that blow and October brought even more tragic news...October 5th, the day my Dad passed away.  After that it was very hard to be thankful for anything...why MY Dad?  Why now?  Why?  God has His reasons.  We've had time to reflect and realize that even though we don't know exactly why we can be thankful for the time we did have with him.  The special bond we formed over the past years while I thought God was punishing me and not letting me have a baby, maybe he was just giving me this time to get close with my Dad.  That is exactly what happened.  My relationship with my Dad changed over the past 4 years, while still Father-Daughter we also became friends.  We went on trips, we chatted about life, we went hunting together and spent weekends hanging out watching football and playing cards.  These are things that may have not happened if I had immediately gotten my wish to become a mother.  I'm not saying that I believe that was the exact reason any of this took place, but I can say I'm thankful for how things worked out.  I still get sad and cry, but often times its hard to cry for long because I begin to think about the wine tasting we did at 10AM on our way home from our fishing trip, or the smile on his face when I shot my first buck with my bow or how much fun we had playing an intense game of 5 handed sheepshead the last weekend I spent with him up at the cabin.

Despite the tragedy this year has brought us, the blessings are also so evident and its hard to be anything but thankful for all we have been given.  The best is yet to come!!!

I will leave you with some pictures.  The first is our Christmas Tree which I did finally get around to decorating!
and...my little Lady who is preparing to become a big sister!
Julie

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

39 Weeks!

We are almost there!  Yesterday was 39 weeks and I'm going to be honest...I am READY!  I'm doing my best to enjoy this final week/days, but it is so hard just not knowing when baby will be here!  Its almost like back to waiting to find out if we were pregnant in the first place. 

This weekend we put up our Christmas tree and its funny because normally an hour or two and the whole thing is up decorated and lights are on.  This year Dick put up the tree Sunday, yesterday we put on the lights and now tonight I will hopefully get around to decorating.   It just seems funny because this week is also Thanksgiving, but a week later than normal. 

I have my OB check up this afternoon and I'm hoping for some progress!  I'm so excited in fact I had a hard time sleeping...oh and the baby who is right on my bladder didn't help.  I've still got a lot of movement and sometimes they even hurt a little when I get kicked in the ribs.  I'm expecting a long baby based on how far up my side I feel kicks and knowing the head is down, but what do I know!! :)

Anyways, depending on how this week goes we are planning on going to Thanksgiving at my Brother and Sister-in-laws and then we mostly don't have plans after that just in case.  Maybe I will do some holiday shopping from the comforts of my computer and couch.  That's about all for now.  I will leave you with my 39 weeks picture.  I look ready to tip over!!!

Julie
 

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Hope Was All We Had - A Poem

For those of you who have followed our story you may remember I like to write poems!  I was thinking of the poem I wrote over a year ago to our "someday baby".  Read it here.  Sorry if that made you cry, I always do when I read it. 

Now that we are so close I thought it was appropriate to write another happier poem!  Here goes:

Hope Was All We Had

There was a time when hope was all we had.
Each month we kept fighting, even when it got bad.

Through the tears and the pain we still dreamed of you.
Praying each day that our dreams would come true.

So much time passed, it seemed too long,
But through it all our faith became strong.

We got the news, you were on your way,
still nervous and scared not sure if you'd stay.

So excited now, we want to meet you so badly,
Proud that we will be known as your Mommy and Daddy.

When we think about you,
We're certain all of our dreams are coming true.

~Julie

Monday, November 18, 2013

38 Weeks!

Nothing much has changed since last week.  I see the OB tomorrow and I'm not sure if she will check my cervix for changes or not.  I still haven't been having any contractions and I can't remember if she said they will check.  The only thing that makes me think I am close is how big my belly has gotten and how HEAVY the weight feels on my lady parts.  At last weeks check she assured me that the head is down and Baby should be staying put since there isn't much room to maneuver. 

The good news is all the movement I have been still feeling.  Usually as I am winding down for the day Baby is getting nuts!  I think he/she may have even woken me up last night with all the craziness.  I'm so ready to meet this little person!!!

The swelling in my feet and hands still comes and goes.  If I sit too long or stand for too long I get the Fred Flinstone looking feet, but usually by the next morning they are back down a little bit.  I can still shave my legs, but I have to be careful balancing in the shower.  Shortly after balancing on one leg my foot begins to tingle.  I took my rings off for good measure.  They still fit, but I don't want to risk them getting stuck.

This is gross, but I keep checking for a mucous plug when I go to the bathroom, but nothing so far.  I guess I just need to wait and be patient and enjoy these last couple of weeks before the craziness begins.  Baby will come when baby is ready!

Daddy-to-be has been doing some of his own "man-nesting" and my garage was cleaned yesterday.  I keep a task list for him to stay busy and there really isn't that much more to be done!



Julie

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

37 Weeks!

Ahhh...I'm late in posting this week.  We have been busy doing some things around the house and preparing for babies arrival!  We are about 99% ready now...I don't think you are ever really 100% ready, but we have everything we will need plus more.

My exciting deal from last week I wanted to share is that when I went in to "close" my baby registry we were sent a 20% off coupon for Babies R Us (15% without the BRU card).  Well since I didn't already have a BRU card she told me if I opened one that I would get an additional 15% that day.  So guess what I did! :)  I really feel like I got some good deals!  I bought the Modela Breast Pump originally at about $280 and with the sale on it plus discounts ended up getting it for $153 which I'm pretty sure is less than buying it at the hospital which they told me was around cost at $200.  The BEST part of the whole thing is I was opening the card and gave the lady my Mom's maiden name and she looks and me and goes..."Don't tell me you are Ellen's daughter!"  and it turns out the lady setting me up is a relative!!!  Small world I tell ya!

My OB appointment went well this week.  For those tracking HB baby was in the 130's this week.  Doctor said it was great.  As far as positioning, baby is head down and we are thinking back facing out with the butt just to the left (my left) of my belly button with little feetsies kicking my right side rib cage.  Kind of in the pike position.

I have to be honest I am getting pretty uncomfortable with how HEAVY I feel.  If I stand for a short period of time my feet start tingling, it is hard to roll over in bed or even lift myself out of bed.  I'm just so thankful for a healthy pregnancy that I really shouldn't even complain about some of the normal discomforts.  One of the things I find to be so funny is every night around the same time baby gets hiccups for 10-15 minutes.  I can't help but laugh because it feels so unusual!!!  I've had so much movement which is great, but at times can be nauseating.  We've got an active little bugger in there! :)

This week I also spoke to my doctor about the "plan" in case labor doesn't start on/before my due date.  I can't remember if I mentioned last week's cervix check was completely closed.  She told me if I start feeling contractions they will do another cervix check and if it starts ripening and no labor they might induce when we get closer to my due date.  If nothing we will wait until past my due date, but go no later than 2 weeks past.

Here is the belly photo for the week:

 

Monday, November 4, 2013

36 Weeks!

What an eventful couple weeks it has been, both in good ways and bad.  Its been almost exactly a month since we lost dad.  I got a very thoughtful hand written note from my Aunt in the mail this morning and so dad was on my mind.  Then as I was getting ready for work the song from our Father-Daughter dance at my wedding played on Pandora - "My Little Girl" by Tim McGraw.  I lost it!  I don't know if I will ever be able to hear that song again without losing it.  I guess that is okay.

In baby news I'm debating this morning whether I had my first Braxton Hicks contractions or whether I just have gas.  LOL!  Either way we are less than a month away until my due date.  This weekend I had my last baby shower down by Dick's side of the family.  It was really nice everyone was asked to bring a book instead of a card so we have lots of reading material.  I'm still feeling so loved and spoiled!  We have a few things to do in the nursery but for the most part we are ready to go now.  Sitting has become almost as much of a chore as standing.  I didn't realize how rough the weekend was on me.  We went straight from Dick's Mom and Dad's to my parents' house and by 5:00 I was sleeping on the couch, and then came home and went straight to sleep on our couch and then straight to bed.  I'm feeling better today, but man was I wiped!  This week I have my OB check and then every week until BABY is here!!  I can't wait to meet this little one! :):)

Here you go...36 Weeks and looking ready to tip over:

 

Monday, October 28, 2013

35 Weeks!

Ahhh the never ending battle with the insurance company...  I finally got my first bill for prenatal appointments and everything is totally messed up.  Why should I expect anything less?  I think I have figured out what needs to be done, but now I just have to wait for the health insurance and doctors office to straighten things out.  Why should anything be easy ever?  I also found out I need to be pre-certified before I go to the hospital or could end paying an extra $500 if I don't.  Can I call and do that now?  Nooooo...I should wait until I am closer to delivering.  What the heck is wrong with this world?  Oh honey my water broke and the first thing we need to do is call the insurance company.  Come on!!!

In happier news, we had a great weekend kicked off with a Halloween party at my friend's house.  We dressed up as a "bee family":
Dick was the beekeeper, Lady was a little bee and I was the beehive.  It was a lot of fun!  Saturday my good friend Keely came to visit and we spent some time out and about, eating marvelous foods and even had time to bum out on the couch, watch a horror movie and catch up.

Sunday was my family's side baby shower!  It was so wonderful and I must admit my baby is going to be very spoiled.  We got a lot of wonderful gifts and it was so nice to see family & friends.  It is exciting to know the next time I will see many of them they will be getting to meet our baby!

When I got home Dick was bartending so I brought in a few of the gifts, but plunked down to watch the Packer Game and relax (my back and hips are killing me these days).  There seems to be an extra amount of pressure down there and at times I feel like I am definitely waddling as opposed to walking.  I'm sure that is pretty standard at this point in my pregnancy and only means we are getting closer!  The only other major discomfort is the non-stop acid reflux that can no longer be controlled by tums.  I need to run out later today and get something stronger!

Things get no less busy this weekend as we head out of town for my 3rd and final baby shower for Dick's side of the family.  (I told you baby was going to be spoiled!!!) 

I took this picture yesterday and thought this was a good one to share as my belly pic for the week:


 

Monday, October 21, 2013

34 Weeks!

Yes, only 6(ish) weeks to go until BABY!

Last week was difficult trying to get back into a normal routine (if you are wondering why see previous post first).  Emotionally it was nearly impossible, but physically going to work, doing normal things around the house, being at home all made things start to feel a little like normal.  There are still the constant reminders of Dad being gone, but we've made it two weeks.  I continue to take things one day at a time.  Everyone seems to be holding up okay.  Dad taught us to be strong and this is no exception.  I remember as kids he would tickle our feet and say "Now you need to learn control so no laughing."  I don't know if he was happy or bummed when he could finally tickle our feet without even a giggle from us.  I remember being so proud of myself that I had 'control'.

I often think of all the things Dad had taught me and all the things I want to pass down to our baby.  I didn't always understand why my parents did things the way they did, but the intention was always in our best interest.  After the experience last week I've realized our family bond is stronger than I even imagined it was.  We have Mom & Dad to thank for that.  They have always treated each of us as special, but no one better than the other.  Each of our experiences have been different because all three of us have different interests, but we have always been supported no matter what.  That is how I want to raise our baby.

This week I start the beginning of weekly doctor appointments.  I had one of my baby showers (yes I am spoiled and will have 3 total).  All signs, including my gigantic belly point to the fact that baby will be here shortly.  I have been feeling good for the most part.  It is getting harder to pick things up, sit for long periods of time, stand for short periods of time, and all the things that are expected.  However, I am still sleeping at night, able to get out and about whenever needed (don't tell Dick this he might stop doing late night runs to the store for me) and overall feeling pretty good.

Last but not least the thing I am feeling above and beyond all is LOVED.  In the past two weeks I have either seen or heard from almost everyone who has ever touched my life and that is very special to me.  We don't always get to say it to each other but I have heard I love you repeatedly, gotten more hugs and kisses and despite our loss feel like together we can all keep moving forward supporting each other and remembering my Dad as one of the most special people who has touched all of our lives.



Julie

Monday, October 14, 2013

33 Weeks

As mentioned last week, everything has been very hectic with the passing of my Dad.  I wrote this midweek last week and thought it was important to share.  It was kind of my, holy shit moment:

I woke up this morning as I have every morning the past 4 days thinking about Dad. Today was a little different I wasn't crying, but feeling hopeful and decided to pray and thank God for His plan and not understanding it, but asking that He would continue to take care of us and bring us closer together as a family.  Then I got smacked with it...THE PLAN...

I've been looking everywhere the past 7 1/2 months for some sort of explanation for everything that has happened or some sort of "reason" for our infertility.  While I've found some good that has come out of it, there hasn't been that "Holy Shit Moment".  As I was praying this morning and thinking about what has happened the past days I began to realize:  I haven't gone hunting this fall because I am finally pregnant. Holy shit!!! I may still be alive right now because of the years of infertility and now being pregnant at just the right time. 

The next thing that occurred to me is that the past 4 years, Dad and I have been closer than ever taking fishing trips, spending time at the cabin, going on Harley rides and going hunting together.  Had I gotten pregnant and had a baby as soon as I wanted to a lot of that time together would have never happened.  Going through infertility has also given me this strength and ability to cope that I did not have years ago.

Everything that has ever happened has led to this moment and while it is still so sad and devastating that God decided to take Dad to heaven, out of all of us he was the most ready. 
 
No matter how terrible and difficult this situation has been, God has taken every moment the past couple days to reveal to us part of His bigger plan.  While I'd give anything to have Dad back there is a certain peace we can feel knowing that God is in charge and that we only need to trust and believe in Him.


I'm still struggling.  This has been very difficult and continues to be difficult, but every day I think "okay we've made it a week, a week and a day etc.".  I'm just so happy God has given us this miracle to look forward to in December and that helps too.

Either later this week or next week I will share my maternity photos and hopefully get back to taking weekly photos.

Thanks for your support,

Julie

Monday, October 7, 2013

32 Weeks

This week has been tragic for us with the sudden passing of my Dad this past weekend.  My emotions are about spent and there is still a long week ahead of us.  Please keep us in your prayers as we deal with our loss and figure out how to move forward without him.  I will write more once things have calmed.

Julie

Monday, September 30, 2013

31 Weeks!

Here we are again at the beginning of a new week!  Today is the last day of September which flew past very quickly.  Nothing has really changed too much as far as pregnancy updates which is good news.  I went in for my "every two weeks" check up last week Tuesday and at 35-36 weeks I will go into the doctor every week.  Everything was good and measuring right on schedule.  Heartbeat was in the 130's.  I'm still feeling pretty comfortable for the most part.  Obviously by the end of the day my back is a little sore and my feet get swollen, but really nothing to complain about.  I have been having quite a bit of movement and can feel little body parts that from time to time protrude from my belly.  I like guessing what it could be, a little foot? a kneecap?  a little baby bottom?  A lot of action right around my belly button and starting to get jabs in the ribs.  Hard to believe, but I still am taking my Zofran every day and what confirmed it was forgetting it this weekend and throwing up both Saturday and Sunday morning without it.  Whoever said morning sickness ends in the first tri is lying!

October brings a lot of exciting things!  I have my baby showers.  Yes plural, I am so lucky to have a shower on my side of the family, Dick's side of the family and also a "friend" shower.  This baby is going to be so spoiled! I love it!

This weekend brought about our annual Suhrfest party up at my parents cabin.  We had so much fun and hard to believe, but I was still able to throw beanbags and very competitively I might add.  The only problem was bending over to pick them up!  Here are a few pictures from the weekend:
Morning sunrise on the Lake

The Group down at the bar watching the Badger Game

Lady with Dicky, snuggling with her new toy puppy (won in a claw machine the night before at the bar)

Getting breakfast at the Cross Roads Café and the one and only Dicky
This weekend we will be doing our maternity photos and heading up to visit some friends for their housewarming party on Saturday.  All this week, work work work!!

Julie
This weeks bump photo...

 

Monday, September 23, 2013

30 Weeks!

Today has me in total shock that there is approximately only 10 weeks left of this pregnancy.  I'm beyond thrilled that at this point I am very comfortable considering my size and what is all going on in my body and that I am having an extremely healthy pregnancy.  Today it really hit me that THIS is what I have been waiting YEARS for and I want to enjoy each moment as we get closer to having our baby in our arms.  Excuse me while I tear up :).

This past weekend was so much fun!  My parents had a big party at their house and it was so nice to see family and friends that we don't often get to see.  I did a lot of standing around though that had me completely wiped out yesterday, but it was so worth it!  I've also begun receiving a few baby gifts that have me feeling so emotional and loved! 

Lastly in this post I want to reflect a little bit because while all of my dreams are coming true, this is not the case for many of the friends I have who are still struggling with infertility.  Going through infertility is something that changes your life forever and the feelings and emotions you go through leave a deep impression on your heart.  It would be wonderful to say that everyone who goes through a journey like mine ends up with a baby, but unfortunately that isn't the case.  All we really have is the belief in hope that everything will work out in the end.  Please take a second to say a prayer for all the couples who are still hoping and dreaming for their miracle to come true.

Julie

 PS Here are a couple photos for this week.

#1 Sneak peak of the nursery:
#2 30 Weeks Bump Photo:
 

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

29 Weeks!

This week past week was such an exciting week for us!  First off I had my glucose test checking for gestational diabetes and if I failed I would have gotten a call yesterday...no call!  Thursday led to my 3-4/D ultrasound which I took my Mom along with me.  It was a little bit different experience being further along.  Last time I had very little problem laying on my back for an hour, this time I immediately got a little nauseas and started sweating.  I had to turn to my side a few times because I just couldn't stand it on my back.  Here is a short video they took of the baby:
 
It was really a neat experience to get to see baby again!  This leads me to the weekend, our "Baby Moon"!!!  We went up to the "thumb" of Wisconsin Door County and stayed the weekend.  We had so much fun just seeing the sights and spending time together.  Here are a few photos:
Look out at Ellison Bluff

Al Johnsons Swedish Restaurant - famous for the goats on the rooftop!  See him up there?

Peanut Butter Oreo & Raspberry Shortcake - never a shortage of desserts

Another view from Ellison Bluff

Baby Bump at Ellison Bluff - trying Panoramic iPhone feature

View of Green Bay (the bay not the city) from a stop along the way

Door County is really well known for its wineries which we weren't able to partake in, but I did schedule a Haunted Trolley Tour which was really fun to go around and see some historic places and hear stories from its early history. 
 

 We finished our trip with one of our favorite Sunday rituals getting breakfast.  We went to a place called Mel's Diner in Sturgeon Bay which is the town we stayed.  I found the restaurant in the Door County Dining Guide!  It didn't disappoint. 
It was a pretty short weekend, but we were both happy to get home and pick up Lady who stayed at my Mom & Dad's while we were gone.  We stayed there to eat lunch and watch the Packer Game and then finally made our way home...but it doesn't end there.  (I told you this week was exciting.)  As soon as we got back home I noticed I had a voicemail from my Mom telling me Dick had forgotten his wallet and phone.  He had planned on going out deer hunting near our house on some public land, but decided to head back to my parents and just hunt on their land.  After sitting out for 45 minutes (in my stand by the way) he sent me a picture text that he got a doe!!  So concludes our adventure for the week.  This weekend we have a big party/family reunion back out at my parents house.  I can't wait!!! 
 
The weather is cooling off and we are getting into sweater season!  Here is this weeks bump:
 
Julie

Monday, September 9, 2013

28 Weeks! 3rd Trimester Begins...

Only 12 weeks to go until my due date!  This week has been hectic!  We interviewed a potential baby sitter, I feel like I've been fighting to figure out my insurance and whether a breast pump for breast feeding is going to be covered and if so which one and just every day life.  I've also been working away in my sewing room making some cute baby stuff:
 This is a swaddle sack
 
A bib!
I'm so excited for this weekend we are going on our "Baby Moon" up to Sturgeon Bay/Door County leaving Friday after work and coming back home on Sunday.  We have a haunted trolley ride planned for Saturday night.  Since we are there for a short time I want to keep the rest of the time open just to relax and explore.  Later this week I have my second 3/4D U/S and Glucose Testing. 
 
 
The weather has been teasing us, we get a little cold fall like weather and then today up in the 90's.  I'm ready for the heat to move on out!  I'm ready for some short walks in the cool fall weather, changing leaves and shutting off our air conditioner!!!
 
Anyways, here is the bump picture this week.  Note I feel EXTREMELY bloated.  The belly is really popping!!
 
Julie



Tuesday, September 3, 2013

27 Weeks...end of Second Trimester

This is the last week of my second trimester and just under 3 months to go until my due date (Dec. 2nd).  The weather has cooled off a bit just in time to enjoy a nice Labor Day weekend these past couple of days.  I was glad to be home and get some much needed cleaning done in the house and more importantly the babies room!  I also put up some of my fall decorations as I do every year on Labor Day weekend.  It is a nice change in the house and gets me excited for fall!  I may have overdone it just a bit and was extremely sore after.  My BIG score this week was finding a changing table on craigslist for...... drum roll please.....$15!  It is in really great condition!  Seriously Mommys-to-be...there is so many nice used things out there which you can save yourself so much money!  (and use it as an excuse to splurge on other things).

Sleeping has become more difficult having to wake up every little bit again to go to the bathroom or just turn over.  I am also generally a sweaty mess despite the air being on and a fan blowing directly on me.  My allergies have kicked into turbo gear which is really the one thing making me miserable.  I've noticed pregnancy has made allergies x2 this year.  I've read it is because things are already more constricted with the increased blood flow and so you feel even more congested. 

On a more positive note, one thing I'm looking forward to is next week I will be doing another 3/D, 4/D Ultra sound for GE!!  I'm taking my Mom along with me for this trip.  Every time getting to see baby is so exciting!  Here's to a great last week of the second trimester and to the start of a healthy uneventful 3rd!!!




Julie

 

Monday, August 26, 2013

26 Weeks!

Another week has flown past and summer is almost over.  I consider labor day weekend the end of summer which is when I usually go through and start putting up my fall decorations and start getting really excited about everything "FALL".  We aren't there quite yet though!

The theme of this week was TOMATOES!  I did a lot of canning and there is actually still quite a bit left to go.   Here is my fancy tomato instagram photo...
 
To date I have canned 25 pints of salsa and 2 1/2 quarts of tomato juice.  This is something we have been doing for about the past 3 years and each year we do something a little different or try to make things a little easier.  This year was no exception.  Dick introduced me to the idea of using the food processer to slice and grate the onions and tomatoes instead of chopping them by hand.
 
 
Other than that this week baby has been kicking up a storm and I noticed that the kicks have been much higher and closer to my ribs and upper belly.  I can also see my belly moving around from the outside and shake when baby is doing flips or jumping jacks or something in there. 
 
I wanted to get this posted so my picture this week I'm in my under tank top and probably look a little worn out since it is getting a little late for me. :) but I really wanted to show how much the belly is popping out!
 
Julie



Tuesday, August 20, 2013

25 Weeks!

Ah! I'm a day late in posting.  That's how crazy things have been.  Over the past week we had our 3D/4D ultrasound which you saw in my last post, I toured my first daycare and we finished our child preparation class!  We also went down to visit Dick's parents and had a great time going to the county fair and spending Saturday with one of my other sister-in-laws (also a mommy to two little boys) registering at Target!  It is always nice to be able to go down to his parents and feel like something got accomplished.

Right now the thing that has brought me the most anxiety is child care.  I toured an actual daycare facility, but I am also interested in taking a look at home care.  It is hard to find home care besides through word of mouth and then you have to know the right people.  Let me tell you, I am scared about becoming an actual parent, but then to think of finding someone who you are going to let care for your child is even more frightening!  I know it will all work out, but nothing like a little anxiety with just 15 weeks to go.

This week also marks my goddaughter's 4th birthday.  I can't believe how fast she is growing up!  It seems like just yesterday... LOL oh am I sounding like an old lady.  Anyways, we have her birthday party this weekend and also our sheepshead club party on Sunday.

Time is flying, I'm feeling pretty darn good and things are getting accomplished slowly but surely and that is all that I can ask for!


 

Julie

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Oh Baby! 3D Ultrasound...

Yesterday I got to go in for a 3D/4D ultrasound through a volunteer program with GE Healthcare.  I was hoping to have more photos, but many of the u/s images were actually 4D video and I wasn't able to crop my information out of those in order to share online.  Anyways, it was extremely awesome!  At first it was so cute because we were trying to get a profile picture of the baby and he/she kept covering their face with their little hands.  Eventually we go to see it though and I am in LOVE!!!


I know it is still a little creepy looking, but just seeing the little nose and lips and fingers was amazing.  Baby did a lot of moving around and the technology and imagery those machines had was incredible.  Some of the bubbles you see in there is actually the umbilical cord.  They spent a lot of time looking at the heart (because that is what these particular U/S techs were interested in looking at, not because there is anything wrong) and the amount of detail they were looking for was amazing.  The tech kept saying, here you can see blah blah valve.  Do you know how small a babies heart valve must be and they can see it on this scan!??!

Today I had my OB apt and everything is going well.  Heart rate was around 140 and my fundal height was around 25" which is right around where it should be.  Fundal height is basically the height of your belly measuring from right above your pubic bone to the top of your uterus.  It is supposed to line up with how many weeks you are along.  My blood pressure was nice and low 98/59 or some crazy number like that.  I still get nauseous and take my Zofran and a little bit of heartburn has started kicking in.  Other than that and the normal pregnancy aches and pains things are going really well!  This week I also found a baby swing on craigslist for $35 which is in great condition ($150+ new).

Next month I get to look forward to the glucose challenge test that they see how your body responds to sugar to check for gestational diabetes.  Feeling so blessed that thus far a healthy little baby is growing in there!

Julie

Monday, August 12, 2013

24 Weeks!

This week (along with every week) is really exciting for me.  I get to do a 3D/4D ultrasound at GE!  I signed up for a volunteer program for doctors to test their new equipment on pregnant ladies.  I have that this Wednesday and thanks to my great memory I missed my monthly check up last week so had to reschedule it to this Thursday.

Big exciting accomplishment this week was registering!  The first shot at it Dick and I went together and decided on all our big stuff.  What was disappointing was that they told us they suggest having at least 100-150 things to pick from.  After an hour and a half of deciding on things we had 10 items total.  This Sunday I took my sister-in-law back with me and left Dick at home and had a much more successful outing.  We pretty much finished up everything and had at least 150 things.  It was so nice having someone with experience!!  What a relief to be done!

This week Dick and I also played in a Bean Bag Tournament.  We had a lot of fun and even though we didn't win, my little brother took 1st place.  We even made "his" and "hers" shirts for the occasion.  Yes they say, "We're #1". 
 
Not much else to report this week.  I'm really starting to get into planning mode.  I feel like there is still a lot to do and now only 3 1/2 months to do it.  I know I just need to focus on one thing at a time and that is all I can do. 
 
 
 
Julie

The Chickee La La's

It took us years of discussion to finally pull the trigger on being "Chicken People".  Let me tell you why, our dog Lady has Cock...