4 (4.5) month check-up

Oh yeah, A had her 4 month check-up. No concerns, just need to watch her skin because she has a few small patches of roughness (not red though). She may have exema like G - we'll see.  And I forgot to talk about the shudder, so next month at her 6 month I'll be sure to. She has met or exceded all milestones :) She wieghs almost 16 pounds and head is over 15 inches around. Our baby is growing and growing!

Walker

Adelaide has been using the walker for a bit now. She now can walk forward and backward, slow and super speed. Also she can transition from carpet to tile and back again. She seems to like to visit her reflection in the dishwasher or oven front. When she moves into the living room she stops and watches T.V. a little. Frankie seems a little more skittish around A then he was with G. He used to pull G around to initiate play, but with A he sniffs and jumps back with her sudden movements. She seems more curious in him then he does with her. Guinny is still interested and helpful with her little sister! When A gets herself wedged in a corner or doorway G frees her and calms her with a toy. All in all the kiddos and pup are doing great and enjoying one another!

Transitioning to the crib, already!?

With smiles and tears I am sharing that we started the transition... Adelaide to the crib as of yesterday. Wow-wee I missed her snuggles already!! That being said I did get some must needed restful sleep. Saturday night was night #2 and it went smoother then yesterday. We'll see how it goes tomorrow.

It took G 2 nights to adjust to her crib (in her room) at 9-10ish months old. Adelaide has been sleeping longer then G did at her age as well as is a more eager and thorough eater, so we are trying the sleeping shift earlier (at 4.5 months but in our room).

Excited for the future while missing my babies already - Our girls are growing up so very very fast!

Hmmm... mysterious shudder

Monday afternoon Adelaide had a little shudder that I've never seen before (in any baby). I was holding hear facing me, she was straddling my knee. She was smiling and making eye contact then when my mom walked up from behind me, Adelaide looked away from me a bit and her head slightly moved back and forth quickly while the rest of her body was still. Not like a full head shake of a 'no' movement. It was a little strange. Her expression was odd too. She went a little blank then displeased, almost as if she was ramping up for a crying outburst. Mom and I were surprised that once I hugged and reassured her that Adelaide returned to smiles and regular movements. I only thought it was a little odd at the time, but didn't become concerned until I described it to Rick and realized it could be a seizure or indication of something more serious. I researched and watched some baby videos and was happy to see true infantile seizures look very different. So for now we'll just keep our eyes on her and mention it next time we see the doctor.

The girl's first movie at a theater...

Was yesterday! We saw: Wreck it Ralph. It was cute :) Guinny did great, watched and stayed quiet. Adelaide nursed, napped and even watched a bit too.
We shared a large popcorn layered with butter. Family time was awesome!!!

Growing and Learning

Adelaide walked in her walker today! Seems like she only can do this on the tile so far but still really neat achievement! Also, she can completely roll over! Both Rick and I watched her turn from back to tummy rolling to her right then she returned to her back! Oh my, how fast we are coming along :)

Progress

Once this past week little A slept 7 hours straight at night! :D yahoo

Over 3 months old!

Adelaide is growing and learning :) She now 1) grabs hers toes and 2) can almost roll all the way over (from back to tummy, all but one arm pinned under chest)!

Also she continues to smile and laugh at familiar faces/voices. She gets going so much she either ends in hiccups or burps.

Today, Little sister has taken her first bath with big sister. Both were clean and fresh in record time.

G update: she regularly does 'summer-salts' without assistance as well as ribbon dancing/gymnastics, pretending a cloth measuring tape is a rainbow ribbon. Before she begins she recruits an audience. So cute! I think this past summer Olympics made an impact! :) an episode of Dora gymnastics further supported this new found interest.

Fully visible eyebrows!

So it's been a little while now that Adelaide's eyebrow hairs have grown longer and darker. The invisible eyebrow look was a bit alien like but adorable none the less :)

Schedule

I think I need some sort of schedule! I need to figure out how to do all what needs to be done: Sleep, Cook - Eat/Feed, Shower & Groom, Clean and Keep Organized, Review & Repair, Teach, Learn, Workout, Socialize, Connect....

wish me luck!

It's been a weekend of visiting :)

My girls are amazing!

They are so cute together! Adelaide has enjoyed playing and kicking laying on the floor (on a blanket of course) and Guinny will sit or lay with her and talk or sing to her. I'm excited that they'll have each other always :)

We tried Adelaide in the crib but she wasn't having it. She cried and grew more upset each time I came in and tried to comfort her. We decided we'd try again a different day so I picked her up. She was instantly calm and cuddly. Oh my! It brought tears to my eyes. Her whole world is in my arms right now and I can make everything ok. In many ways I wish this phase would last and last. I hope for health and happiness for my babies and wish I could always hug the worries away!

So in love with my family!

I finally had the camera ready when she smiled and chuckled, here's a few pics:

2 Months Old

WOOOOOW! How'd we get here so fast?!
Well, Adelaide's 2 month check-up was this past Monday and everything looks great. She now weighs 12.1, if I remember right. Her reflexes and growth are right on. She is smiling a lot and chuckles sometimes. -so cute! She can sleep up to 5-6 hours without interruption and is a good napper. We are not on any sort of schedule, but the Dr reassured me that she is likely to settle into a pattern over the next few weeks since she is already sleeping and eating so well. -yeah! She prefers the swing to the vibrate chair, but likes to be held the most. Guinny liked the vibrate chair, so glad we kept both around for little sis. Cloth diapering is going great. She has had no irritation and we've kept up with laundry just fine. We're still comparing pics and can't quite tell if she's going to be a Guinny twin. Take a look and let us know what you think :)

Little by little

So today's accomplishments were 2 loads of laundry, 2 loads of dishes, prepared dinner and dessert, washed the dog, and bit of online shopping. All this after a pretty rocky 'morning' of feeling overwhelmed. Ending the day with an improved mood and excited about the walk Guin asked for tomorrow :)

Welcome baby Adelaide!

Our second daughter was born at 7:02 am on Tuesday, July 17, 2012. She was 8 pounds 5.9 ounces and 20.5 inches (same length as Guin). We are happy to have her here with us :)

When expecting G - sharing the news

G's first wave of announcing:

At home (I think a Sunday) I took the pregnancy test and eagerly waited. It was POSITIVE! I then put it in my robe pocket and walked out in the living room and told Rick. I think he thought I was kidding, but I quickly handed over the evidence. Yeah, smiles and joy all around! The timing on this was kind of funny because the previous day at Starbucks I asked how he would like me to tell him when we get pregnant. He said - "Just tell me". So the next day I was able to. Rick and I were very lucky and got pregnant pretty quick - about 3 months of 'trying' ;)

With Guinny, we almost waited 12 full weeks to share our news with others. We thought how my brother shared their news previously was really cute and copied it. For my mom's birthday we gave her a 'Grandma' photo frame with a sonogram pic in it. Our message was not clear. Ha-ha both my mom and brother did not understand, they thought we were giving her an additional way of displaying pics of her and/or Sophia (my niece). However, moments later my sister-in-law looked at the gift and at us and said something like "Oh my!" then "YEAH, congratulations" all the while my mom and brother stared at the commotion. We then announced we were expecting and all were on the same page. All of this happened so quickly, but I thought it was amusing.

We told my dad over lunch, but he totally was expecting some kind of big news. I give him some credit he is pretty astute mostly, but also guesses a whole lot. So he thought something was going on when I shifted our lunch plans to include Rick. We met at a local family (Greek) restaurant. After we all arrived, we gave him a card with an egg on the cover. Inside it said something like "it's a single yolker". He smiled and gave us big hugs and congratulated us. He said a few co-workers will be asking if I'm expecting when he returns to work since he shared his guess before he left. Ha! too funny.

On Rick's side, I believe we told Boompa and Nana first while just hanging out and visiting at their house. Pretty sure Mike was there too. And boy he seemed the happiest for us. He teased... saying he was excited/relieved it was someone else's turn for kiddos beyond their sister :) 


We also had to share our news with our best friends, which were also trying. We went out to brunch at the Waffle Iron (or some such place that no longer is open). They seemed the most shocked of all, happy yet realizing it is really happening and many of our couple events would be changing to family functions soon enough.

Whew, we made it thru last month

Actually our streak of road trips started in May! I was scheduled for 3 weeks in Austin, TX (4-5 hour drive) for work. We decided that both Guin and my mom would join me. This not only allowed Rick to focus on is on-call duties for work but also squeeze in a little school work. It allowed for some girl time for us and a change of scenery :) I am very lucky to have my mom roll with the semi un-planned events and schedule! We were successful with most of our desired activities. While down there we were able to meet up with my high school friends on 5 occasions and an old co-worker once. We tried many restaurants including 2 food trucks plus made it to a craft show, and swam 3 times! Wow! Looking back we did a lot - and all that was before/after I worked each business day and drove home for the weekends. We returned home late afternoon of Friday 6/1.

Not even a week later, on Thursday 6/7 we (Rick and I only) made it to Kansas for a friend's wedding. Rick drove all 8 hours there on Thursday, around town on Friday, and all 8 hours home on Saturday. I got to take it easy and demand pee stops :) We had a great time! Oh, I do get a little credit - the reception had an open bar so I encouraged Rick to relax and enjoy, since I could drive us back to the hotel safely. So I did do some driving, though only 5-10 miles (if that!). *A special thanks goes out to my mom and dad for trading off time and giving Guinny a great time while we were away!* We returned home the night of Saturday 6/9.

Again not even a week later, on Wednesday 6/13 (after work no less) we (Rick, Guin, and I) hit the road heading to Michigan for a cousin's wedding! We made it there late Thursday night. This wedding was on Saturday and it was beautiful too! We had a wonderful time and were so happy we all made it up to visit (Rick's side)! Though by then I was experiencing some significant ankle and feet swelling, so I did need to take it easy and keep my feet up.  Rick drove us up and down from MI as well as around town while there, he really tried to make it as easy on me as possible! And Guinny was a champ! She didn't have potty accident, she ate well, played and socialized with other kids and adults! During this trip I think she finally got over her tentative nature around Boompa! We returned home the night of Monday 6/18 and had to return to work the next day. That was a little difficult.

The very next Friday and Saturday 6/22-23 was Guinny's first dance rehearsal and recital. We had to juggle a bit but Grammy was able to pick-up G's tights and Bupcia was able to take G to her dance rehearsal (while Rick and I worked Friday). A group was able to make it the show on Saturday. Apparently she did even less at the real show then at the rehearsal, but she didn't cry or run off stage. She did however pick her nose during the performance, thankfully that was very brief. We gave her some flowers after the show (as a co-worker recommended to me). I'm glad I was warned because many many others had flowers and I know how much my girl enjoys flowers and plants.

We had a great treat Sat-Sun, an overnight visit from "Cousin Meghan". We talked many things mommy and it just made me wish more then ever that we lived closer. But I didn't dwell, I really tried to soak in all the time, attention, and conversation I could!

The next day (Sunday 7/24) was our marvelous Tea Party - Baby Shower/Sprinkle! It was lovely. The foods and treats were so yummy and the company was AWESOME! It was so, so very nice to celebrate our coming family addition!

Eager to meet the baby!

Though I'm tired and have many unfinished projects around the house, I am ready and eager to meet this little one that remains so active! It occurred to me that I'll still be tired with things left undone next week and the week after, so why wait? So, I'm ready when you are baby!

These shots are from yesterday after my insanely hot Indian food dinner. I had Lamb Vindaloo at Phall spice level (=extra extra hot). I laughed, I cried, I perspired, and had a runny nose. This one didn't have as extreme a reaction as Guinny.

Cheer us on and wish us luck - I'm hoping "Eggert" comes before the doctor needs/wants to induce!

In this second pic you can kind of see my belly button area. Ha-Ha yep, it's off center incase you couldn't tell

Work Baby Shower

Wednesday 6/20: The pics below were taken at work during my co-ed baby shower. I'm lucky - I really do work with a great bunch! The unofficial party planning committee whipped up lemon pudding pie, lemon cupcakes with lemon frosting, lemon squares, chocolate cake, brownies, chocolate chip cookies, a variety of ice creams, plus a ice tea/lemonade punch. Oh yeah, some nut mix and fresh cherries to offset the sugars. I'm sure I missed a few things but you get the idea. There were leftovers galore! I got to take lots of goodies home to share with Rick and Guin. They also enjoyed the smorgasbord!

Not only was there a few things to open for me/the baby, but they also thought about Guin. She received a big sister present of 2 books and bubbles, which she was very excited about. The main gift for our family was giftcards that many went in on. Even without receiving gifts and a party, the office has been great with all things baby! I've received support and congratulations from many. :)

I know, I've been bad about taking pics and sharing. But here we go - finally a few more belly pics...

Week 38

This past Tuesday I had a routine check-up. My dr said I'm now 2 cm dilated and remain 50 % effaced. We got to hear the heart beat after my tummy (outside) was measured. Oh yeah, by 'we' I mean me, my mom, and Guinny! When the dr prepped my belly with gel (for the Doppler - sound magnifier), I told G she needed to be quite so we could all hear the baby's heartbeat. With a giant smile and two little fists she exclaimed I'm so excited! That made the dr laugh.

We (the baby and I) are still doing well... and growing. The dr let me know if I change my mind and want to be induced, she would be ok with that after I reach 39 weeks. I don't feel the slightest bit wavering in this area. Guinny came on her own 3 days late, and I am prepared to wait for this one too. Although, I do feel that baby is going to break the trend (Rick, me, and Guin were all late) and be early.

Week 37

Past the 37th week mark and considered full-term!

Yesterday's appointment went well with no concerns noted. I've gained 34lbs so far and am dilated just above 1 cm with 50% effacement. We're making progress. 

I'm feeling well and actually have a bit of energy and lots of motivation, so I'm wrapping up some projects around the house. 

My feet continue to swell throughout the day but reduce overnight. The swelling hasn't been as bad as the prior few weeks and with that the aches and soreness are gone from my ankles and feet - yeah. I feel my lower back clicking and popping; I assume that goes along with my hips shifting. With that no pain just mild awkward feeling then I have relief. My wrists and hands continue to be regular strength, haven't needed my carpal tunnel braces since that early spell, which has been really nice.

Something special - I think Rick was joking and teasing a bit but ended up giving me an awesome compliment :) He said something like if you have any kind of athletic ability/physical strength; I think it is pregnancy - healthy pregnancies. Ha-ha, I love that! I seem to be an efficient baby maker :)

Week 36

We’ve past the 36 week mark - currently 36 and a half weeks along (will be 37 come Sunday). 

The baby now weighs almost 6 pounds and is gaining about an ounce a day. Little one measures over 18 1/2 inches long. At the end of this week, Eggert will be considered full-term; Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks (babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) 

The baby can start to "drop" down into the pelvis, process called lightening. This often happens a few weeks before labor with the first baby, but probably won't happen before labor starts with future pregnancies. Huh, I did not know that – learned that one today. 

At my dr appt yesterday, everything checked out fine though I was instructed to keep an eye on my swelling feet and ankles. If they continue to reduce (back to normal or close to it) each night, ok. Otherwise, alert her of swelling and any discomfort that carries from one day to the next. So far so good with this. 

And now for the progress report: dilated .5 (that is a half) a centimeter. I soooo thought I was making more progress, but again the doc seemed pleased with my progress. And just fyi - I received no effacement (thinning) measurement at this point.

Time is flying by! The baby along with our excitement is growing growing :)

By request

So, I've been listening to music on the radio, in part due to laziness. I don't take the time to plug-in/set-up my iPod in the morning. Anyway, among other songs we (Guin and I) listened to 'Rumour Has It' by Adele a few times. It made an impression and became the first non-kiddie song she requested (by name none-the-less).

Week 35

According to Baby Center:

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http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-35-weeks_1124.bc

How your baby's growing:

Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

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But reality is  - kicks, punches, twists, turns, and summersaults are still felt - side ways, up and down, diagonal, straight out, and inward. My pre-stretched belly seems roomy enough to accommodate Eggert/Eggerta’s aqua aerobic routine. Occasionally it’s uncomfortable maybe a touch painful, but generally it makes me giggle to see and feel my entire midsection contort and shift.

Recently I talked to a few friends about how it feels when the baby moves and what I was able to tell from the movement… interestingly many others say they know if it’s a foot, hand, face, head, butt, or back that they are feeling or seeing. I wasn’t able to guess what I was feeling when I was pregnant with Guin (from what I remember). This time I can tell the difference between something small (like a hand or foot) and something large and harder (like the back, head, or butt). And now, it seems like I can guess when it’s feet due to the rapid succession of movements compared to a punch here and there. There have been a few large body stretches, but only 1-2 times where I had to stand up or stretch out myself to relieve the pressure on my lungs and chest. I expect this to happen a few more times, we’ll see.

Overall, I’m feeling good! Though I fatigue easily and get short of breath (if I walk and talk even if I move slowly), I feel happy and energized.J

We are on the verge of much change. I am excited and a bit nervous. I have high expectations of myself and many parenting and personal goals. I am still learning how to prioritize my time and energy to reduce stress while maintaining progress. On the home front, we are continuing with organizing and cleaning around the house (which we should be doing even without another kiddo on the way!). It's been a real team effort to nest and get ready. Thank you Rick and Guin, Thank you Mom and Dad! 

We are looking forward to a long weekend of family, friends, and fun!!

Cute pronunciations

Was thinking how fast Guin is learning new words and how short lived her mis-pronunciations (and use of her name for things) last. So before I forget all of them I thought I should share a few:

·         Cock (Clock) ~ early on, we tried to grow out of this one quickly, though J

·         Toke-o-bots (Polk-a-dots) ~ ending almost 9-10 months ago

·         Yo-Gabbo-Gabbo (Yo Gabba Gabba) ~ occasionally still 

·         Daddy Robot and Other Robot (C3po & R2D2) ~ about 4-5 months back she learned “Star Wars” and each character’s name

·         Ou-na...Be-ez ~ currently counting in Spanish with a little accent J

·         Go-chee (Goat Cheese) ~ recently started with her discovery of the delicious dairy product

·         Mich-kin (Michigan) ~ currently excited about her upcoming road trip 

I know there are more, but this is all I can recall for now.

My little big girl

My little big girl:

• Is only wearing pull-ups/training pants at night and no longer at dance or for swimming!
• Has gotten her first few freckles or moles: one on her mid back (her) right side, one on her upper forehead (her) left side, and one on her left (mid) arm as well. All are flat and a nice light brown.
• Really likes to finger paint with mom (me) using my acrylics on canvas. She’s also very interested in using her water colors and paint brush she received for her birthday from Nana and Boompa.
• Still enjoys stickers! Particularly her Hello Kitty book of stickers and activities she got from ‘Daddy’s friend’ (Denny and Lisa) for her birthday. She also is proud of the ones she earns at dance class.
• Wants to read and ‘play’ everyday. We/I read books, cooking directions, street signs, anything/everything J She recognizing letters and memorizing some words. She likes to play with her flashcards and hooked on phonics. We are making progress and she keeps asking for more. I love this! Hahaha, she must get that from daddy J
• Is looking forward to summer so “we can go to the beach,” although we have no beach plans. I hope she’s satisfied with visiting a pool instead.
• Likes to cuddle, but only if it’s not “too hot”. Awe, now this she must have gotten from me.
• Prompts good-byes when she’s ready before others… sometimes with waves, hugs, kisses, high fives, or verbally.
• Will wipe her lips or cheek after being kissed… sometimes anyway.
• Is excited to visit her or mommy and daddy’s friends.
• Is intrigued by ‘girl’ things and ‘boy’ things. Though not pointed out my us, she’s picked up that many toys and clothes are designed for girls or for boys. We continue to mention that most things are for everyone, it just depends on what you like… being careful of not supporting gender stereotyping. We hope she likes what she likes no matter the color or design or gender aim.
• Says “I love you” without being prompted – makes my heart melt.

Pics and Clips

Pics from yesterday. My belly/curves are accentuated in this particular dress, so
I thought it would be a good time to snap a few shots to share.

This clip is also from yesterday. I'm not sure if this type of file will work for everyone, but I was hoping to share this audio recording of Guin (with me and Grandmama). She was so chatty, I was able to record her on my phone without distracting her for once. Let me know if you're interested in listening but can't get it to work.

Little one G

Regarding my little big girl, she is doing wonderful! 1) She seems to be enjoying the change of scenery - coming with me on this last business trip requiring travel (at least the last one for a while). The hotel has a pool and she gets to have a "sleep over" with mommy every night :) 2) Earlier this month she had her first successful poop using a public restroom (at cousin Sophia's b-day party). She was proud of herself and we were excited as well. Haha, this is parent talk for sure! 3) Beyond that we are starting the Hooked on Phonics Pre-K and G loves "playing her new game with the little cards". I hope I can keep learning fun for her and tap into her great memory. 4) I don't want to jinx it, but I would like to also share that for the last 2 weeks she has done well in dance class too. Not so much with technique, but she has pretty much returned to participating and having fun. Hope this can last through her remaining classes, rehearsal and upcoming recital!

33 weeks

33 weeks down - how many more to go?! Though I'm more than happy to roost to full term or past (like I did with G), I think baby may be hatching a bit early this time around. I am predicting some progress in the thinning or dilating and am eager to know what the doc has to say. We had to skip an appointment due to work travel, but since we were doing so well, the doc wasn't concerned. However I have an appt on the first business day I'm back in town - Monday! I'll have more of a baby update then!

Hiccups!

I know, I'm over due for an update - so here's a quickie:

This Sunday we saw and felt little one's hiccups! Darci even got to feel them :) Poor baby, either the hiccups continued or started up again since I felt them again Monday morning.

Week 29/30

Yep, third trimester - We are 29.7 weeks along!

My doctor appointment went smooth yesterday. I had an ultrasound, which I wasn't expecting but enjoyed none the less. The technician was very pleasant and warned be before certain angles/positions were shown so I could turn away to keep the sex a surprise. Since I didn't know we had an ultrasound scheduled I went to the appointment alone. Wish I had known so Rick and/or my mom could have joined me. As long as everything stays on track and the baby continues growing without concern that'll be the last sonogram for this pregnacy. The technician did print me a few sonogram pics so I could share. (I'll try to get them scanned in and post them here later.) 

Besides that I had some blood tests and a glucose test. Got the results today and everything came back the way we want - all good :) 

Lastly, I had a tummy check and doctor consultation. I am up 22 lbs and baby is estimated to be 3 pounds 3 ounces of that. The doctor says I can expect to gain about a pound a week from this point, but is not concerned if I gain less. We are right on track and healthy. 

DC trip

We had a wonderful (yet short) visit with family in DC recently. Rick and I were both out that way for business and decided to overlap our stay for a long weekend of food, laughs, games, and sightseeing with the Palmieri's. Though we had some rain out (reducing our outdoor activities) there was much fun to be had! Here are a few pics:

Before our open bus tour was cancelled, I learned there is only 1 monument in DC - the Washington Monument. The others are memorials.

In the far background you can see the top of the capital. 

First weekend the Discovery was on display at the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum. The Enterprise was removed and waiting to be delivered (flown piggy back on an airplane) to New York. I got to see that at the airport upon arrival.

Awe, we're cute! :) I think those are suspended satellites above us in the background. 

Ok, so here is another belly shot! After we left the museum we ate at a fabulous Turkish restaurant. It was great as usual (I try to eat there every time I'm in town).

Week 28

We have entered the 3rd Trimester! Sleep patterns have changed, leg, feet, arm, and hand cramps have continued - needless to say sleeping through the night is now a thing of the past. My excitement and anticipation is growing! I am trying to focus my nervous energy on constructive projects that I can finish before I get much bigger. I'm curious about how big the baby is and how much I've gained. Hoping to find out at tomorrow's dr appointment. (Belly pics to come)

G's first haircut

I agreed to get Guin's haircut (a little trim) after she turned two. Well when the time came, I wasn't ready so we waited until after her third birthday. She is potty trained and will be a big sister very soon. Mommy (me) has to let go a little and celebrate her growing up!

This past Saturday, Grandmama, Me, and big girl Guinny went and got our hair cut and styled. Lulu (hairdresser and friend) was wonderful at talking to and engaging G while combing, cutting and styling.

Guin's hair is just above her shoulders in the front and is longer as you go around, peaking in the middle of her back (about 5 inches below her shoulders). From the longest part of Guin's hair, a little over 2 inches was cut. And other areas were just trimmed a little to even things out and clean up her look. Haha - what a grown up little girl :)

I plan on doing most of her future cuts and trims for a while, but it was nice to be able to sit and watch (and photograph) this day.

Style: 2 twists pinned back then combined with purple flower band topped with purple glitter - "Princess Hair"

Week 27

Week 26 of pregnancy - complete, now we have begun the 27 week. Little Eggy's kicks and jabs are feeling stronger than ever. Since the space is getting tight in the womb, I seem to tell when baby is awake and when asleep. J We haven’t felt any hiccups yet. I’m not sure when I started to feel them with Guinny, but once they started she had them pretty consistently. My whole belly would have a slight bounce or jiggle every few seconds for minutes at a time. Sometimes they seemed to last all day. I know that it’s normal so we’ll see if this little one gets them too.

Well that means we’ve reached the final week of the second trimester. I find that some old symptoms are creeping back, such as fatigue and frequent urination. Also, groin pains and Braxton Hicks contractions are increasingly evident. I guess at this point I should expect to feel them on a regular basis. Beyond that I am well and focused on getting some projects complete.

On the emotion side, I have found myself weepy or easily tearing the last few days. Sensitive and sentimental to say the least - oh, who would have thought I’d be such a softy? The wonders of motherhood; I have more patience then I ever expected. It’s not too bad at all!

Catching up...

We had an eventful week, starting with some bad storms and many tornados on April 3. At least 17 tornadoes ripped through the Dallas-Fort Worth area from mid afternoon into the early evening. This caused much damage yet no deaths - wow, so lucky! There was massive news coverage, tornado sirens soundings, and many phone calls and text messages between loved ones. I was at work on the 10th floor in North(ish) Dallas. We evacuated the floor, descending the 10 flights in the stair well. A co-worker stayed with me. I went slow, waddling all the way. We were cleared to return to our floor after about 15 minutes. I took the elevator back up :). Rick was also at work. They evacuated to the basement (not common to have these in Texas) twice, I think. And little Guinny was with Grandmama very close to a few strikes! They stayed in the closet for over an hour, and then returned to cover in the bathroom for about 20 minutes. We were texting at least every 10 minutes to check on each other. We are very lucky - our entire extended family down here remained unharmed in body and property.

Guinny's Birthday was Friday and I got to spend it with her since I had the day off for the holiday. We slept in and watched cartoons. We played until after lunch, and then she helped me clean and bake. Though I was hoping to get more done, we had a nice day at home.

The following day we had dance class in the morning then her birthday party at the park. This was a little tricky for multiple reasons.First, Guinny was again not following along in her class. When we popped our head in, she participated for a short time then sat in the corner. Instead of repeatedly disrupting the class we decide to remove her and leave early (for the second week in a row). Arg! I'm glad she's not cripplingly shy, loud and obnoxious, or violently hitting or biting! But this misbehaving is tricky to address and correct. Sometimes she's happy and dancing, walking laps around the whole room and when told what to do or not to do (by the teacher) she tends to pout with crossed arms and lowered head. We told her she needs to listen and not to be sassy. Trying to give her examples of both. Explaining that in dance class we listen to the teacher. We are learning how to dance while having fun, but it is not playtime. She seems to understand a great deal in conversation but we have yet to see behavior improvement. When we leave early we follow up with an additional punishment for a few hours if not the rest of the day. For example we've taken away the privilege of cartoons, sweet treats, playdough or the like. And if/when she asks for the restricted item(s) we remind her of what happened in dance class. We ask her to explain back why we can't have that item. And what we can do to earn it back. She repeats it back and actually explains it in her own words vs. exactly how it was told to her. We think being around other kids and understanding and listening to an instructor (that she is not related to) is great for her. However we are brainstorming if maybe there is an activity better suited for her activity level and attention span. After briefly sharing with Misty, she told me that Sophia seemed to have a very similar experience and they switched her to a tumbling/gymnastics class. Sophia is thriving! So we are planning on completing this season with dance and brainstorming for next year.We'll see if she's able to participate in the recital coming up. I sure hope so!

Anyway, after getting home we changed Guinny out of her dance clothes explained no cartoons... she sat in her room until she apologized. Then we quickly packed up the truck and headed to the park. We were trying very hard to separate her earlier behavior from the picnic at the park. We didn't want it to come across as a reward. I think we had just enough time to make it clear and separate the activities. Anyway, we got to the park just at 11, when the party was starting. Many of our friends and family arriving along side. So we recruited help unloading and quickly got into party mode. We provided BBQ from Rick's favorite local place. Guinny asked for purple cupcake and sprinkles so I had made chocolate cake with homemade butter cream frosting decorated with star shaped sprinkles, and mixed berry cupcakes with homemade mixed berry cream cheese frosting decorated with fresh blueberries, a blackberry, and a mint leaf. The kids and adults seemed pleased with the spread. Much was eaten! After food there was roaming around the pond, blowing bubbles, playground activities, and sandbox fun. Guinny didn't even get a chance to open her gifts until we returned home. There was food, sun, laughs, and fun! The party was a success!

The next day was Easter. Guinny got a basket with plastic eggs and stickers from us, had a nice visit from Grammy, and then got to go over to see Boompa, Nana, Aunt Katie and the Phillips group. She got another basket there with plastic eggs, candy, raisins, and juice. She ate some dinner then enjoyed a few treats. She was especially delighted that cousin Josey (that she calls my “my friend Josey”) was able to stick around and visit. All the kids played and played! What a full and fun weekend :)

March Photo Session

I wanted to share some more of our wonderful family shots from our recent photo session with Liz!

(Ok, trying this again but hopefully I get more pics uploaded this time :))

Week 26

Yep, today is day 1 of my 26 week of pregnancy. I am well and feeling pretty darn good! Nesting and cleaning is my focus right now. I am excited how the house is coming along. Rick has been a real trooper too! He, not only is still working full-time, schooling full-time, completing his share of parent and household tasks, but also helping with all these random and not so random projects around the house. Thanks hun!! J

Throughout pregnancy, I’m continuing to work full-time and keep up with home responsibilities; I have to remember to go easy on my back because it gets achy. Oh, I will regret pushing myself too much – ouch! (This is common due to the growing uterus shifting the center of gravity while stretching out and weakening the abdominal muscles. Of course this is in conjunction with hormonal changes that loosen the joints and ligaments.)

My frequent leg cramps continue, but during routine exams both with my OBGYN and MDA doctors, I was reassured that extremity cramps are normal for pregnancy and my frequency and intensity is normal for my disability. Not that I was really that worried about them I just wanted to fully disclose how I was doing physically with my doctors so they can track and monitor appropriately.

Though my carpal tunnel symptoms have not yet returned, my hands and arms have begun cramping as well. Not as painful as my legs but seems more awkward.

Ok, enough blah blah boring symptom stuff. Here's the good stuff. The baby is really active and moving a lot. I described it to Guin as "The baby is dancing and making mommy's tummy feel funny." So now when I hold my belly suddenly with a strange expression on my face, Guin either asks or states the baby is dancing. Ha-ha, so cute :) I've been really open with her and she rubs my belly and gives the baby zur-burts. We both bust out laughing when she makes it loud. A little less often she tickles and talks to the baby as well. Recently, I've invited Guin to feel the baby move. She places her little hand on my bare skin and waits a few seconds then gently yet quickly pushes on my stomach and says it moved. Hahahha! Needless to say, she hasn't felt the baby move yet.

Guin's Birth Story

I was due on 4/2, so every day after I made sure I walked and stretched in an attempt to promote labor. I had a dr appt Monday 4/6 (at 11 or 11:30) to assess my progress. I was also warned a talk about induction was coming by Friday 4/10 if I didn't go into labor.

Sunday night we decided to try the spicy food thing - eating at an upscale Indian restaurant. I ordered something on the menu that had a warning, something like: Not for the faint of heart OR For the brave of heart. When I ordered it the waiter made sure I knew it was a very spicy dish. I said that is exactly what I was looking for. Ha-ha, oh boy it was intense but really tasty too! After 2 or 3 bites little Guin was already twisting and turning - you could see her movements through my clothes. It was obvious to the entire table. I ate all the coated lamb pieces and as much sauce as I could handle along with some much needed rice and naan. All the while tears dripping from my eyes and nose running. Others tasted the dish and were astonished that I was able to eat as much as I did.

Around 3-3:30 am I was awakened by what I thought was abdominal/digestive cramping. Thinking to myself, ok maybe extreme spice wasn't a good idea after all. But I managed to fall back asleep for a while.

It was a Monday morning and I was working from home. Between 9 and 9:30 am my water broke. I called Rick, telling him I'm not sure but something is happening. I told him to let me check and call him back. He said that he will just leave and come home (about 23 miles). I insisted that he wait for me to call him back, he agreed to appease me; however he left right away. Smart man! I also called my doctor’s office asking if they wanted me to keep my appointment or just head on in. They snickered a little and encouraged me to come to hospital and check myself into labor and delivery. I then called my manager saying that I was seeing my dr early with no additional info. I put my out of office on my email and voicemail then shut down my computer.

Though my water broke, I didn't experience the gush of water seen on T.V. and in movies. My nurse or doctor later explained that in my case the baby's head quickly moved down and prevented major leakage. Interesting. Anyway, when Rick got home I was still in no rush. Being concerned that the hospital wouldn’t let me eat if I wanted to, I made myself a banana and peanut butter sandwich on wheat bread with a large glass of cold cow’s milk. (I also asked Rick to sneak me food in the hospital if I wanted something. He said ok-ok, reassuring me that he wouldn’t leave me hungry.) So after this second breakfast we finished packing and loaded the car.

Rick drove quickly and pretty smooth, other than unavoidable dips near our house – wow-wee so glad Eldorado (street) has been smoothed out so we don’t have to repeat that part next time around. When we arrived I asked Rick to help me in and get us checked in, so we left all our pre-packed items in the car to get later. Plus we thought I would have a few rooms while waiting so we didn’t want to have to keep up with everything. Check-in was easy since we pre-registered with the hospital. I got a delivery room right away. Nurses, aids, and doctors were coming in and out checking on this checking on that. Rick stayed with me the whole time. He grew hot and hungry, so we decided he would run out in the halls to grab a snack. This was about 5pm (guesstimating). He heard a baby cry and rushed back to our room (without getting anything), he didn’t want to miss anything! He was such a great support and so sweet. We learned to bring in our stuff with us when we check-in. That way he’ll have his change of clothes and snacks J

I wanted as little intervention as possible, so I opted out of an IV and progesterone… I had to drink plenty of fluids (I was provided water, ice and juice) by mouth to stay hydrated. And labor was advancing at its own pace. I didn’t want to be hooked up and strapped down so they intermediately checked my and the baby’s heart rate instead of the constant monitoring. This allowed me to stand and walk around a little to promote labor. This continued until my heart rate rose and they warned if I couldn’t calm down/decrease my heart rate that they would put me on constant monitoring and I would then be restricted to the bed. Well, that’s what happened. We still declined progesterone to advance my labor, however after a very difficult conversation I decided to have an epidural after all due to my increased heart rate and oncoming anxiety attack. I didn’t cry from pain, but I cried while making this decision. I talked to Rick and had to call my mom to be comforted and reassured.

Guin was born between 9 and 10 pm, after 2-3 hours of pushing. I surprised the staff during the pushing phase. They were used to encouraging mothers to push, push, and push again. While in labor, I asked well do I have to stop and rest between pushes or can I just keep pushing. They said keep pushing is fine, just make sure to breath. So that’s what we did. It was such a wonderfully intense feeling of physical instinct. My body knew it wanted to push and didn’t want to stop until the job was done. My brain did very little, it was all muscle pre-programming. Neat-o! The dr commented that this went fast for a first time mom. Oh ok, we did good then J

Our visitors were allowed to come in for a short visit since it was already past visiting hours. A few pictures were taken, there would have been more if I would have permitted it. Guin was cleaned, weighed, and check out all in our delivery room. We had many of these wonderful features since our hospital is baby/family friendly. Finally we got our stuff from the car with the help of a family member or two. After receiving many congratulations and hugs and kisses, we said our good-byes and were moved to our room. Rick still had not ate or drank, so our best friends brought us some Jack-in-the-Box meals. So glad something was near the hospital and open 24! They were permitted to say a quick hello before being escorted out.


I ended up being awake over 30 hours straight. It took the nurse warning me then alerting the dr, hearing it from my dr and finally Rick lecturing me to finally sleep. I wasn’t trying to be a trouble maker and didn’t think I was being high maintenance. I was cheery and alert so I just stayed awake, but I guess I needed to try to wind down and sleep while I had the additional assistance from the hospital staff. I got 2 naps of about 3 hours each. It did help, imagine that – everyone was right J

Side note: Guin was born four days past her due date. And I believe both Rick and I were born late too. Will the next one break the trend and be early or on time? We still have so much to do to get ready. So as far as I'm concerned "Eggert" can stay in there as long as he/she wants :) Well, actually I hope not too long where I would “need” an induction. Above all else I simply hope for continued health for the entire family!

Week 25

So I've been having occasional but increasing tummy tightness and groin pain. I was told it’s most likely due to the additional pressure to my Round Ligament from the stretching uterus. So, I'm fine but I don't feel particularly perky during. So again, I've been resting a lot. And any time I can store up some energy we've been trying to focus it on a home project. I have many nesting/home adjustments on my wish list. So we are working to prioritize them in order to get the most impartment tasks completed before the baby is here!

My fun do's and don’ts for reducing groin pain:

·         Use ice or heat

·         Avoid frequent bending at the waist

·         Practice safe lifting and bending - To lower the body, bend at the knees instead of the waist.  Use the thigh muscles to push upward.   However, don't lift anything heavy.

·         Don't engage in movements that make the pain worse

·         When sleeping or resting, lie on the left side with your knees and hips bent.   Use support cushions and a full body pillow in bed - Try placing a pillow between the knees and one under the belly. This can take pressure off the groin, hips and back.

·         Use a pregnancy belt or support device

·         See a chiropractor, massage therapist, or acupuncturist.

Coming soon - Awesome Photos!

We had a family photo session this past Saturday at one of the really nice city parks near us. It was a bit breezy so hair will be interesting to see, but otherwise weather was beautiful! Just to give you a taste of what's to come, here is a shot of Guin deep in thought.