She's Here!!!!

Ok, so AGAIN I have slacked in my blogging, but THIS time it is for a REALLY good reason! Miss Gwenyth Cynthia Jasovsky made her debut Thursday September 16, 2010 @ 6:39pm. 

Right in the middle of that terrible storm!

She is 7lbs, 20 inches of pure perfection!

Here is her debut pic:

She was born with a little bit of chaos, though.  The umbilical cord was wrapped around her 3 times, and the Pediatrician said that it was a miracle that we decided to induce a week early.  That may have just saved her life!

Everything is fine, she is very healthy, and we headed home Saturday morning.

She is the most amazing little peanut! And we love her more than words could describe.

I'll blog again tomorrow with more pics and details, just wanted to give a quick update.

Thank you all for the kind words, gifts, wishes... we love you all so much!



It's TIIIIIMMMMEEEE!!!!!!!!!! :)

Sorry that I haven't been up to snuff on my blogging, but I have been trying to get everything ready for Gwen (and guests that will be visiting us)!  I went to Dr. P today and she informed us that I am almost 3 cm dilated and that we should report to the hospital at 9:30 am tomorrow morning to be induced!!! Yay!  She says that if she were to let me go on my own, it would probably happen within the next two days.... but we can't wait any longer!

So, tomorrow should be the BIG day!  The day that our little baby girl enters the world, and we become parents! OMG!!!!!  We are super excited/anxious/nervous, but couldn't be happier :) 

So, here is the last picture of Gwen in my belly:

38 weeks 6 days.

We promise to keep everyone updated.  We can't wait to meet Gwenyth Cynthia and to introduce her to you all!

Wish us luck!

Lots of love to you all.

3 Weeks (or less) To Go!

Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 37 Weeks

How far along?  37 Weeks... considered full term.  Long enough for me, come on out Girlie!

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  Still under 20 lbs.  I don't have an exact answer bc when I went to the Dr. this week, their scale was "low on battery" so the nurse said that she had to add on 4 lbs... but I only saw a 1 lb difference.  Whatever, lol, at this point I feel HUGE and uncomfortable!

Maternity Clothes:  The only shopping that I have been doing has been for Gwen... bottles, nipples, etc.  I have no desire to try on clothes... TOO MUCH WORK! Ha ha!

S-T-R-E-T-C-H:  I feel like we have been in the home stretch for a LOOOOONGG time!  I wake up every morning hoping to find that my water has broken lol.  I must say that I think that Gwen is running out of room in my belly.  Can someone tell her that there is plenty of room out here?!?!

Sleep:  Every night I become more and more uncomfortable... but when I do get comfy, sleep is pretty good.  I have limited my intake of water after dinner so that I don't have to get up as much.  I think that Jason suffers when I suffer.  For example, whenever I get up to use the bathroom or toss and turn, he asks if everything is ok.  I think he thinks any time could be THE time!  It is very cute of him!

Best Moment of the Week:  Finishing up shopping for Gwen, I was getting nervous that I wouldn't be able to finish in time!

Movement:  I feel her trying to find and even sometimes push some more room is my belly.  It must be so cramped in there!  She definitely kicks her feet out my side, and her butt out the other side.  She has had the hiccups almost every night still... poor girl!

Food Cravings:  Bought another watermelon, some pineapple (but I think that's because i heard it helps induce labor, Lol), and plums!  Lots of sweet stuff!

Labor Signs:  Cramping, Braxton Hicks, and still dilated just 1 cm.  But, I welcome any more signs!

Belly Button:  Still the same, but I have noticed that my Linea Negra is a bit darker, maybe that's because my tan has faded.

What I Miss:  Sitting, standing, sleeping, walking comfortably.  It is almost as if once I find a good position, I will do ANYTHING not to get up... like right now, I am blogging bc I am very comfortable sitting... I wonder how long I can milk this? :)

What I Am Looking Forward To:  LABOR!  OK, well maybe not Labor itself, but the reward after Labor... our little angel.

Weekly Wisdom:  Patience is a virtue.  (Ugh, please make me a bit more virtuous, PLEASE)

Milestones:  37 weeks.  And Group B Strep Test came back negative!  That makes for one less thing to worry about during delivery!

What Gwen Is Up To:  Gwen is full-term (Yay!) and is gaining about 1/2 an ounce a day.  She is also getting her first sticky poop (I can already hear Jason gagging) called meconium ready.  She is also brushing up on her skills for the outside world: sucking, inhaling, exhaling, and gripping (it's getting strong!)  She is now the size of a Watermelon (and boy do I feel like it!!!!!!)

Dear Baby

Dear Gwenyth Cynthia,

     With your arrival quickly approaching, I can't help but stress about what type of parent I will be.  I may not have a definite answer, but I do know that I will love you UNCONDITIONALLY, every moment of your life.  I will always be here for you, to share anything and everything, to protect you, but to let you grow into your own person.  To support you and guide you to make the best decisions for your life, and to be a consistent force always standing behind you. 

     Although I know that our relationship will not always be perfect, I hope that through it all you will be proud of me, and even more proud to say, "That's my mom!"

     Now, get your little butt here ASAP, Daddy, Wiley, & I are READY to meet you!!!

I love you.

Love,

Mommy

We're on our way... :)

Wednesday began our weekly visits with Dr. P.  We shared our disappointing visit to Beth Israel with her and her staff, and they were very comforting.  They also explained what the Biophysical test actually meant, and what our score was.  The Biophysical measures Gwen's heart rate, muscle tone, movement, breathing, and the amount of amniotic fluid around her.  We scored an 8 out of a possible 8!  Yay!  Now, WHY didn't anyone tell us that MONDAY?!?!  Oh well, it is all in the past.

 

This visit also began the first of my internals, and Dr. P informed us that my cervix is pretty thinned out and that I am already dilated 1 cm!!!!!  OMG!!!!!!!  We were shocked!  She also told us that Gwen is head down and in position, which explains why I am using the bathroom every 5 minutes (or so it seems).  Although she cannot be positive, she did say that she thinks that Gwen will most likely be making an early appearance.  She says that her guess would be around Labor Day week... Oh, boy!  She said to make sure our bags are packed and car seat installed, and not to travel too far within the next few weeks.  We will admit that it was a pretty big reality check, but was are SO EXCITED!!!!! 

We are ready for you Gwen!!!

 

Here are pictures of her finished room:

 

The only missing piece is our little girl :)

Here is my Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 36 Weeks:

How far along?:  36 Weeks (9 Months), it's funny, no one tells you beforehand that you are REALLY pregnant for ten months... I would like to get the word out there. Lol.

Total Weight Gain/Loss:  Well, this week I lost 1 lb (HOW in the WORLD that happened, I have NO CLUE), but that puts me back at 16 lbs.  And Gwen currently weighs 5 lbs 10 oz.

Maternity Clothes:  Now that I am not working, I am constantly in summer dresses or tanks and comfy skirts.  Comfort is key, because I am feeling anything but comfy!

Stttrreeetttcccchhh:  We are REALLY in the home stretch now.  Gwen is still stretching a lot, putting a ton of pressure on my organs... especially bladder.

Sleep:  It seems as though a tidal wave of exhaustion has come over me, so I am sleeping whenever I can.  Sleeping during the night is still somewhat uncomfortable, but I really can't complain.  I am fitting in at least one nap a day too!  Thank you Wiley! Haha.

Best Moment of the Week:  Finding out that I have started to dilate!!!  We cannot wait to meet Gwen, it feels like we have been waiting forever, so to know that she is on her way makes us feel so great!

Movement:  All the time!  I am able to tell though, that she has less room in there... her movements are more like stretches now.  Hey, Gwen, there is PLENTY of room for you out here, so come on out!

Food Cravings:  Coconut, which is something that I love all the time, but lately I can't get enough. 

Gender:  Girl!  And we had that confirmed Monday, so now her laundry has all been done.  (Just had to make sure one more time before I washed all of those pink clothes!)

Labor Signs:  Apparently more than I was aware of!  Thinning cervix and dilated 1 cm... and a  little bit of cramping.

Belly Button, In or Out?  Still "flat."

What I Miss: Functioning normally, getting up from laying down seems to get harder by the minute.

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Meeting Gwen!  And our next appointment with Dr. P, hopefully she has some more exciting news for us!

Weekly Wisdom:  There is no such thing as a stupid question.  We can only learn from asking, so ask away!

Milestones: 9 months :)  And the beginning of dilation. Woooo Hoooo!

What Gwen Is Up To:  Gwen's skin is getting smooth and soft, her gums are rigid, her liver and kidneys are in working order, and her circulation and immune system are basically good to go.  Her lungs are the only organs that stil need to fully mature, but every day she gets a little closer to breathing on her own! Yay!

 

Gwen's 1st Rock Concert

In May, while driving around Hoboken, Jason and I had heard an advertisement on the radio for the Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers concert that was coming to the IZOD center in August.  Without even thinking, Jason said "I would LOVE to go see him this summer!"  Also without thinking, I said loudly, "THIS summer?!?!"  He quickly retracted and said he was sorry, that he wasn't thinking... he had realized that I would be 9 months pregnant and mostly likely not able to go. 

The thought of how badly he had wanted to go never left my mind, and I REALLY wanted to surprise him for his birthday.  But, I wanted to wait as long as I could to make sure that I would be feeling well enough to attend.  SO, since I have been feeling really good, I bought the tix!!! And he was so surprised.  We went to the concert Tuesday night (after I prepared by taking not one, but two naps), and it was GREAT!  I was comfortable (it was inside and had cushioned seats) and so happy that I could still make his birthday special!!!!  

Happy Birthday Jason!  You are an amazing person and I am lucky to have you as my husband, and Gwen is equally as lucky to have you as her Daddy!

Here are a few pics of us before we left:

Betcha Gwen will love to rock out to Tom Petty with her Dad when she's born!  She was a big dancer the whole concert!

Our love to you.

UGHltrasound!

     Monday was our Biophysical (Growth & Weight) ultrasound appointment, and boy was it an experience.  Let me start at the beginning...

     Our hospital, Meadowlands, was recently bought by a new company.  This new company closed the Fetal/Maternal Medicine Department for whatever reasons... they still have the Maternity Ward (so I will still be delivering there) but I can no longer have my ultrasounds there.  So, at my last appointment with Dr. P she gave me the new location for the u/s... Newark Beth Israel Hospital.  Ok, cool, that is one of the best hospitals around so I figured it was a nice trade off... so I THOUGHT! 

     I will absolutely admit that we have become spoiled when it comes to our u/s.  We have always gotten the 4D (where you can actually see the baby's face ), there have never been more than us an another patient in the waiting room, and our technicians have always told us EVERYTHING that is going on with Gwen.

     With that said... Jason, Myself, & my Mom (we were dropping her off at the airport, so she got to come along, yay!)  arrive at Beth Israel, which may I point out, is a LOT bigger than our quaint little Meadowlands, and not in the BEST neighborhood.  So, we park, and head to the front desk to figure out where on Earth we were going.  The man at the front desk tells us to "try" the 4th floor... we really needed the 2nd. (Thanks Officer!)  Then we open the door to the OBGYN and BAM! There are, no lie, about 25-30 patients in the waiting area.  Our appointment is for 2:15, and we are now taking bets as to what time we will really be called in... and I will say, it was a LESS amount of waiting time than I expected. 

     We are called in, and head to the room.  The technician begins the u/s while I ask, "You do the 4D here, correct?"  "No, only when we see a problem bc of the high volume here," she answers.... Great, I think, I was really anticipating those great pictures!  But, whatever, she continues, and she is SILENT, so I begin asking questions, such as:

"Can you tell us the baby's weight?"  She answers shortly, "At the end."  Ok.

"Can you just confirm one more time for us, that it is a girl?"  "It is."

"Is this the baby's butt over here?"  (I point to a side of my belly)  "Yes."

Hellllloooooo Lady, does everything look okay?  (That is what I wanted to scream!)

     The u/s is done, but she says, "Don't wipe off yet, the Doctor is going to want to come in and talk to you."  WHAT?!?!?  I have NEVER seen a doctor at these appointments, just the technicians.  WHAT is going on?!?  After what felt like a decade, the Dr. comes in and introduces himself, and asks who my OBGYN is, I tell him.  "Oh, ok, we have just started seeing her patients, but we normally only take HIGH RISK patients."  Ok, maybe this explains the technician's concentration, she's forgiven.  Lol.  The doctor then walks over to the screen and asks the tech to point out what she is talking about... then without a blink of an eye he says "Nope, nothing, just an oblique blah blah blah.  Everything is fine, have a nice day."  Ok, again WHAT?!?!?!   You aren't even going to explain to me what just happened... I am now nauseous bc I think that there is something wrong.  Nope, they didn't....  UGGGGHHH!

     We then start to head out of the office and they hand me the WORST sonogram pictures I have ever seen!  They are not even slightly visible, therefore, I have nothing to show you, sorry.  Overall, the experience was terrible, and I couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong until yesterday.  Let's just say that if I need to have another u/s before I deliver... I am requesting (demanding lol) that I be sent somewhere else. 

     Have an appointment with Dr. P today, so wish me luck, now I start going weekly!

Lots of love to you.

Mommy-To-Be-Quiz @ 34 Weeks!

How far along?   34 Weeks and counting...

Total weight gain/loss:   17 lbs, doing well.

Maternity Clothes:  Still haven't bought anything, if I had it my way I would be wearing a bathing suit all day everyday... clothes are so HOT these days :)

Stretch -----:  I can finally stretch out and relax because I am OFFICIALLY a stay-at-home mom (How strange to say that!), well without the baby yet, but Wiley counts for now right?

Sleep: Very uncomfortable but still managing... and squeezing in naps whenever I can!

Best Moment of the Week:  My last day of work! No more commuting! And PLENTY of time to work on Gwen's room. Happy Mommy!

Movement:  Sooooo much.  She is very, very active.  She has been a big side kicker these days.  It doesn't hurt, but it  is a little shocking sometimes lol. 

Food Cravings:  This weekend we celebrated Jason's Birthday and his Great Aunt Kathryn made her AMAZING crumb cake (she hand rolls the crumbs).  We had some yesterday and brought the rest home with us... and I am positive that if he does not hide it from me, I will probably not leave him any! 

Gender:  Girl!  We have an Ultrasound scheduled for Monday, and you better believe that we will once again ask for confirmation... haha!

Labor Signs:  Only "false" signs, spotting, a few Braxton Hicks, but nothing too exciting.

Belly Button, In or Out?  I'm going to say that it is currently "flat."  It is neither in nor out, it's just there.

What I Miss:  Being able to spend the whole weekend out and about.  It seems like these days I am counting the minutes until bedtime, but it is better to listen to my body than to pay the price later.

 

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Our next ultrasound, another glimpse at our little girl.  The calm before the storm, resting for a few weeks and enjoying my "nesting" period.  And of course, MEETING GWEN!!!  I dream about her all the time and can't wait to see her face for the first time!

 

Weekly Wisdom:  A happy pregnant woman = A good day.  An unhappy pregnant woman = LOOK OUT! ;)

 

Milestones:  My last day of work!  Jason's 32nd Birthday (it's not a baby milestone, but it is something very special!)

 

What Gwen Is Up To:  From now on, Gwen's growth is mostly in the plumping up department - though she won't get much longer, she'll put on a pound or more of baby fat before birth.  Her hearing is totally developed (Then I hope she likes the Tom Petty concert that we are going to next week!!). 

 

A view from up top... buh bye feet!

Soaking It All Up

     Yesterday was our 2 wk check up with Dr. P., and everything seems to be going well.  I have gained another pound since my last visit, putting me at a total gain of 17 lbs.  Baby's heart rate sounded good, and my next appointment is in 2 weeks, but then I start seeing her weekly.  Which means Gwen is almost here!  Dr. P said that we can schedule our next sonogram for this upcoming week to check the baby's weight and growth.  Can't wait to see our little cutie again!

     After our appointment we headed to the hospital for some more classes.  I took a Postpartum Mom class and a Breastfeeding Education class, they were BEYOND helpful, and made me feel a little more at ease about everything.  Then, Jason joined me for an Newborn Care Class, which I have to say, he was very engaged in.  All were taught by the same woman who taught our Childbirth Education Class, thank goodness, because we LOVED her, and she made the class fun and interesting.  The class was so small, which allowed us to discuss a lot more, and ask tons of questions... and that we did.  Now let's just hope that we utilize all this knowledge that we have, and make the best decisions we can for Gwen!

     So, 34 weeks down, and only 6, yes, SIX weeks left, maybe less!  Tomorrow is my last day of work, so bittersweet.  My class threw a little party for me (so cute) complete with gifts and cake (YUM)!  I will miss everyone, but I am looking forward to the rest and free time to get everything Gwen-ready.  Time seems to have been flying by, yet, I think these next six weeks are going to feel like forever.  I have started having dreams almost every night about Gwen and her being here with us.  I love them, and wake up smiling, but disappointed that she hasn't arrived yet.  I know, patience Sam, patience... but haven't I told you that we are instant gratification people?!? Lol. 

   Our love to you.

Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 32 Weeks (8 Months)

How far along?  32 weeks, 8 months preggo... oh September, please come quickly!

Total weight gain/loss:  Well, at my last visit with Dr. P, I gained four lbs., so that puts me at a total of 16lbs. 

Maternity Clothes:  None... haven't ventured shopping much during the past heat wave :)

Stretch -----:  Stretching is what I have to do at night, for my legs... Charlie came back to visit me again last night.  Thankfully, this visit was a bit shorter and less intense.  Scared the daylights out of poor Jason again though, but he'll definitely be ready if I go into labor in the middle of the night!

Sleep:  Doing pretty well, a little achy some mornings, and had another visit from Charlie, but other than that... no complaints.  Actually one, Wiley REFUSES to sleep past 4:45am - 5:00am... We have forgotten what it is like to sleep in.  And if he doesn't let us before Gwen gets here... we may never sleep in again :(

Best Moment of the Week:  Catching a break from that ridiculous heat wave...

Movement:  Tons!  She is such a little wiggler, and she really loves moving around when her Daddy talks to her before bed.  It's so adorable.

Food Cravings:  Well, our friends, Jenn & Brian sent us 6 cupcakes from Crumbs in NYC (Thank you SO much guys), and Jason and I shared one, sometimes two a day!  They were gone in a blink of an eye... so I guess they were my current craving, they were AMAZING!  But other than that, a lot of fruit, especially Watermelon! Mmmmmm.

Labor Signs:  None of true labor, but yesterday I had my first REALLY uncomfortable Braxton Hicks contraction, unpleasant but not unbearable.  Good thing we took that class, because I knew not to panic, which is what I would normally do. Ha ha.

Belly Button, In or Out?  In.  Gwen still likes pushing on it though.

What I Miss:  Being able to function like a normal human.  But anything for my little girl!

Weekly Wisdom:  Accept all advice given to you, but that does not mean that you have to follow it.  No two experiences are the same.

Milestones:  8 Month mark, and completing our Childbirth Education Class... it made me a little less nervous about the labor and delivery process.

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Our next class (Newborn Care, Dr. P says this one is the most important) and having time off finally to finish Gwen's room.

What Gwen's Up To:  Ready or not, Gwen's getting ready to emerge.  She's probably in the head-down position by now, with her bottom facing up.  She is still the size of a Squash.

We passed with Flying Colors! :)

With 9 weeks to go (yipee!) we went to our Childbirth Education Class @ our hospital.  I must say (and I am pretty sure Jason would agree), it was VERY informative.  It covered everything from labor to breathing techniques, a tour of the maternity ward, AND a massage lesson (my favorite!!!!)  We really learned a lot, and hopefully can retain and use it all during the crazy & hectic time of labor :) 

Our Diploma... ha ha!

This past week we FINALLY got the two finishing pieces of furniture for Gwen's room... and Jason put them together as soon as they got here (he really is getting good at this!).  Although they are both done, the room is in a current state of disaster with all of her gifts... but that will all change very soon!  Now that I have a place to store everything it will be easier to clear out... hopefully.

Here is her new changing table.

Don't mind the mess :)

And her new dresser!  The only thing we need now is some shelves, and we are READY!

With each step that we take we are getting more and more excited for Gwen's arrival, we love her so much already!

Our love to you all.

Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 30 Weeks :)

10 Weeks Left!  Let the countdown begin!!

Here's my current baby bump pic:

• How far along? 30 Weeks... Only a short time left!
•  
• Total weight gain/loss:  Still at about 12 lbs.  And Gwen weighs about 3.2 lbs.
•  

• Maternity Clothes:  Haven't purchased anything maternity lately...
•  

• Stretch -----:  Gwen is definitely stretching a ton in my belly.  Legs seem to go one way, and arms the other, and I love it!
•  
• Sleep: I'm doing alright in this dept., although I am pretty stationary all night, laying on my left side.  But, I can't complain bc this position usually helps my sciatic nerve pain.

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• Best Moment of the Week: My baby shower (we received SO many great things), seeing baby Gwen again this week, and buying a new car!  It is perfect for our growing family (No, not a minivan, that's where I would draw the line!!!) and we love it.
•  
• Movement:  Gwen has been moving so much that when she takes a break (probably sleeping) I get nervous.  I love all of her movement, I feel so connected to her when she is stretching and kicking and bouncing around.  And Jason loves to feel his little girl showing off for him, which she does almost everyday.  I'm really convinced that Gwen knows when it is her daddy talking to her and rubbing my stomach.
•  

• Food Cravings:  Still on a fruit kick, I can't seem to get enough.  And roast beef sandwiches with onion and banana peppers, I have always loved this sandwich, but I have been having it quite often for lunch lately.
•  

• Labor Signs:  None, but they are coming soon... :)
•  

• Belly Button, In or Out?  In, although sometimes Gwen pushes or kicks right at my belly button and it feels like it's going to pop out, but then she lets up and all is back normal.
•  

• What I Miss:  Normal body temperature, it feels like I can heat up at the drop of a hat... I don't think that the insane heat we have been having is helping much.  Air conditioning is my new best friend... actually my savior.  Ha ha.
•  

• Weekly Wisdom: Stay hydrated and cool, overheating can make a person crazy! Especially a pregnant woman!!!!
•  
• Milestones: Having my beautiful baby shower, and finally buying a new car!  And seeing Gwen again!  She was so cute, and made the most adorable faces while we were peeking in on her... love her.
•  
• What I Am Looking Forward To: Finding places for all these wonderful gifts, getting the room organized, and all set up for her arrival.  And our Childbirth classes next Saturday... should be an interesting time!
•  
• What is Gwen Up To? As Gwen's skin smooths out, her brain keeps getting more wrinkled.  All those grooves and indentations increase surface area, meaning more room for that oh-so-essential brain tissue.  She's also adding some brawn - her grip is now strong enough to grasp a finger.  She is now the size of a squash... our cute little squash!

She's a KICKER!

     Today was our check up with Dr. P., and let's say Gwen was a bit of a show off.  I am happy to report that since my last appointment, my weight has stayed the same. :)  Now, please don't think that I am happy bc I am vain, I just remember that Dr. P warned, "The more weight you gain, the harder your labor will be."  And AGAIN, I hate pain as it is, so, I will do anything to make labor any bit easier.

     The appointment was pretty routine, blood pressure was good, baby growth is going well, and my blood work from last visit came back great.  Then, Dr. P. laid me down to hear Gwen's heartbeat.  She squeezed some gel onto my belly, as she does every appointment, and just as she was putting the wand down Gwen kicked in the EXACT spot and bounced the wand off my belly!!!! Haha!  Even Dr. P. was startled... she said "Wow, no one is going to mess with that baby!  She is VERY strong!"  Gwen calmed down and we were able to finish the appointment... but what a feisty little one she is!

     We now start seeing Dr. P. every two weeks, and our next ultrasound probably won't be until late August/early September.  And as usual, the Dr. wanted to know about Wiley and when we would be bringing him in again.  I informed her that he had just be neutered yesterday and that he was supposed to be on bed rest. I hope that she knows we aren't bringing him to the hospital when Gwen is born. Lol. 

     Back to unpacking presents and trying to organize her room... wish me luck!

XoXo.

Thank you all SO much!

Much to my surprise, this past Saturday was my baby shower!!  It was absolutely wonderful!  We received more gifts than I think we have room for!  All of our gifts left in about 5 or 6 cars there were SO many.  We have about half of them back at our house now, and are making room for everything. It really was fantastic, we are so lucky to have such great and loving family and friends... Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Monday we had an ultrasound appointment to check on Gwen's growth, and it was so exciting!  We couldn't wait to see her again... and to confirm that we still were on Team Pink.  Although we believed her the first time she told us, we never actually SAW her girlie parts and just wanted some confirmation, and a picture.  Our technician was MORE than happy to oblige, and as she put it "It's definitely a hamburger, not a hot dog."  Haha.

Below is our proof... it's a girl all the way.

All of Gwen's measurements were right on track, she is head down (she could change positions though) and had a heartbeat of 146.  She is currently weighing in at 3 lb 2 oz, which from what I have read is just a bit ahead of schedule.  Could that mean that she'll be making an early appearance?!?!  We could only be so lucky!  She looks like such a little angel, and it looks like she was smiling as we were cooing over her.

This one below is my favorite!!

This may sound strange, but I think that she looks so much like me as a baby in this one.  She has some cute chubby cheeks, and is pouting a bit here.  Isn't it amazing how clear it is, and looks like a baby ready to be born? 

Our next visit with Dr. P is tomorrow, hopefully she can help me with my sciatic pain (I think Gwen is on my sciatic nerve).  And I will get my results of the Glucose Test (I assume it's negative, since I never heard from them).  I hope I am done with tests for a while... but we'll see.

Almost at 30 weeks... can't believe how far along we are now!

Tons and tons of love to you all!

Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 28 Weeks (7 months)!

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  How far along?  28 weeks or 7 months... we are in the Hooooome Streeeetch! Woo-Hoo!

• Total weight gain/loss: About 12 lbs.  But will be probably have gained more at the next Dr. visit (July 14th)

• Maternity Clothes:  Still haven't bought anything new that was Maternity, but have picked up a few more dresses and comfy lounge shorts... it's been too hot out for Maternity clothes with those "Secret Belly" panels.

• Stretch ----:  Yup, we are in the Home Stretch.  That's what this question was referring to, right? ;)

• Sleep:  I am starting to get uncomfortable sleeping, but nothing that is keeping me up all night.  There are two basic positions that work... my left side... and my right side... haha.  So it gets annoying when neither is working for me.  But other than that, I think I am doing alright.

• Best Moment of the Week:  Finishing the Chair Rail, receiving all those wonderful gifts, and putting Gwen's bedding up! 

• Movement:  It seems like she is getting stronger by the day, and so are her kicks!  She is a little wiggleworm, and I love it!  Lately, it seems like I can tell where she is in my belly, like, where her head is at times, or where a foot is... it is so amazing!

• Food Cravings:  Ice cream, which, by the way, Jason is loving!  He has jumped on the ice cream train too!  And a lot of fruit... isn't that the polar opposite of ice cream?!?!

• Labor Signs:  No, but I do think that I have had a few Braxton Hicks (fake) contractions... nothing painful, just my belly gets really hard for a few minutes.  It is said that this is normal though.

• Belly Button, In or Out:  In, guess the outie thing just isn't happening, which is ok by me.

• What I Miss:  Regular clothes, and being able to bend down with ease... if we didn't have Wiley, I would leave everything on the ground, just bc it is too much of a nuisance to pick up. Lol.

• What I Am Looking Forward To:  Our next sonogram (July 12th), and our Childbirth Classes... only because it will hopefully make us feel like we have SOMEWHAT of an idea as to what we are doing. 

• Weekly Wisdom:  Knowing how to roll with the punches is the best preparation for life there is!

• Milestones:  7 Months Preggo!!!  Third trimester here we are... and we would like you to be a smooth and quick ride, Thanks.

• What is Gwen Up To?  Gwen's lungs are mature enough that, if born right now, she has a pretty good chance of surviving (with help from medical technology).  Her skin is still pretty wrinkly (bc of amniotic fluid) but will smoothen as fat continues to deposit.  She is still the size of an Eggplant, about 10.2 inches, and 2.4 - 2.75 lbs.

Closer and Closer...

We have done so much in the past few days!!!  Saturday night, Jason put together the swing AND our new glider (sooo comfy)!  I find myself hanging out her room, rocking away, wishing she was here already. :)

 Then, Sunday morning, with the help from Gwen's Welo, the chair rail went up.  And let me just say, I think the room looks perfect!!

Then, today (Wednesday), Jason called from work and said that he had a surprise for me & Baby Gwen.  He came home at lunch with a box from Gwen's Grandma (Jason's mom) and inside was her bedding!!!  I was sooooo excited!  I love it so much and am so thankful.  Of course, I had to put it up right away... even though we haven't bought a mattress yet (we will soon).

Thanks Grandma Mary!

We are getting SO close to finishing the room, it's so exciting.  I can't wait for the day her room is complete with her in it!  Only about 12 weeks to go... hopefully less.

Now we are just gearing up for a relaxing 4th of July weekend (Jason really does deserve it!)...  then it's back to work, lol.

Hope everyone has a Happy and Safe 4th!

Working for the Weekend

Since our summer is starting to get pretty busy, we decided to stay home this weekend and try to finish the chair railing in Gwen's room.  After measuring out the room and consulting with professionals (Gwen's Welo), lol, we headed to Lowe's to pick up the supplies that we needed for our current project.  We bought 2 twelve foot pieces and 3 eight foot pieces.  As you can see below, for them to fit we stuck them out the sunroof, and headed home.  Well, we were just a mere 3 blocks from our house when, *SNAP,* and then there were 5 eight foot pieces.  Haha.  Needless to say, Jason went back to the store this morning and returned two of the original smaller pieces and bought 2 new longer ones.  :)

And he was so happy in this picture :)  His face was NOT this happy 10 minutes later.

Today, the chair railing was painted, and tomorrow morning at 9am, with some help, it is going up!!! Yay!  We cannot wait to see the finished product!

Jason was a busy little bee today, working so hard for his little girl.  Not only did he paint the chair rail, but he put up the curtains and new blinds, installed the light switch cover, and is currently putting together her swing (our first registry gift, Thanks Aunt Jane & Uncle Tom!).

 Here is a picture of the new curtain and blinds. 

 I found this company that makes custom light switch plates and outlet covers (Yes, we are a bit obsessed), but look how great it looks!  They are so fun!  Hopefully, the outlet covers will be here this week. 

Wish us luck for tomorrow, we will definitely document all the fun! 

Love you all.

Let's go USA!

Holy Heifer Alert!!!

So today was my monthly visit to Dr. P (sans Wiley, although we did talk about him as usual), and my Glucose Test, which tests for Gestational Diabetes.  I had to chug (w/in 5 min.) 10 oz. of bright orange, super sugary, and might I add pretty gross, liquid.  Then exactly one hour later a blood test was administered at Dr. P's.  Now, we wait for the results.  Actually, this office only calls when the tests results are not good... so no news is good news.

After my test, we had our normal visit, and found out that this little lady gained 7, I repeat, s-e-v-e-n pounds since our last visit (4 weeks ago).  Now, I'm just kidding, I now that this is completely normal and on pace for my pregnancy, but what a shock!  I have NEVER gained like that. Lol.  So, I am up a total of about 12 lbs... and to think, last weekend I was in a bikini!!!!! :)

All is well with Gwen, we are both right on track.  We go back see the Dr. in three weeks instead of four (b/c we are getting closer to due date), and we have to schedule our next ultrasound for about three weeks from now.  Can't wait to see her again! 

Here's my latest bump pics, thanks to Hubby.  I am 26 weeks, 5 days... almost into the third trimester (ahhh, the home stretch).

And here is the frontal pic I have been promising.  See, the belly button hasn't "popped" but it is certainly far from its starting location. 

We hope that everyone had an enjoyable Father's Day!  Jason had a great time celebrating his "almost" Father's Day, can't wait until next year, Gwen and I will certainly make it special for him!

All our love to you.

Mommy-To-Be Quiz @ 26 Weeks :)

• How far along? 26 Weeks, only 14 left (hopefully less!)

• Total weight gain/loss:  Haven't checked since my last Dr. Appt.  But, will find out next Wednesday.  Let me say that I definitely do NOT feel light on my feet, lol, tying my shoes is now something I dread. :)

• Maternity Clothes:  Haven't bought any recently, but I am always on the look out.

• S t r e t c h ..... : I am slowly removing this question.  I should change it to, How much Cocoa Butter have you gone through this week.

• Sleep:  Well, minus the one night Charlie visited, I have been doing rather well.  Actually better than normal, because my awesome cousin helped convince Jason that Wiley would like a crate! YAY! (Thanks Sherri & Keith).  I have been having a bit of an achy back though, but nothing too bad. 

• Best Moment of the Week:  The other night just as we were settling into bed, Jason put his hand on my stomach to see if Gwen was moving, and she started going crazy!!!  It was like she was showing off for him.  I would say that it was a solid five minutes that she was dancing for her Daddy.  And even funnier is that as soon as he took his hand off and I put my hand on, she stopped!  She's a Daddy's Girl already! :)

• Movement:  She is getting stronger but the day, and I am loving every minute of it!

• Food Cravings:  Egg Salad sandwiches were a big hit for me this week.  And, I have been craving ice cream more than I normally do.

• Labor Signs:  None

• Belly Button, In or Out:  Ok, I promise to put a pic up this week.  I finally took my belly ring out, and it seems like I have less of an innie every day, but still not fully popped.  Wonder if I'm not going to have an outie?

• What I Miss:  Zuppa de Pesce with a glass of red wine... this is my staple when going out to eat.  I can't wait to be reunited with my long lost friends!!!

• What I am Looking Forward To:  Working on Gwen's room more, and finding out when our next sonogram will be.  Can't wait to see our little girl again!

• Weekly Wisdom:  Don't mess with a pregnant woman, haha, she will almost always win (especially if you know what's good for you)!!

• Milestones:  Painting the room, progress is a beautiful thing.

• What Is The Baby Up To?  Gwen is soaking up my antibodies, getting her immune system ready for life on the outside.  Her eyes are forming and she'll soon be practicing blinking.  She is now the size of an eggplant.

My New Friend Charlie

This weekend we had a lot going on.  Saturday, especially, was a busy day for us, so it was so nice to hit the hay finally at around 10pm or so.  I have to say that even though I was not in my own bed, I was sleeping rather soundly, until approximately 3am.  That was when I SHOT up out of my much needed slumber and started screaming in pain!!!  I know that I scared the crap out of Jason, he must have thought that I was going into labor, or that something was wrong with Gwen and I.  Nope... just a good ole Charlie Horse! Ugh!  I know that I have had Charlie Horses before in my life, but THIS was intense!!!  It lasted a good minute or so, and is still tight (2 days later), before I was able to flex and massage it back to normal.  Boy, oh boy, was I caught off guard.  I don't even remember the last time that I had one, but I hope that there is a 10 year span between this visit from Charlie and my next. Lol. 

After I got home, of course I started researching Charlie Horses and Pregnancy, and there it was under Causes: Pregnancy.  Just lovely :)  Right away I began searching for ways to prevent them, and if you know me at all, I am taking ALL precautions!!!  I do not need something like that attacking me in my sleep... especially when a good night sleep is what I need now, before the baby comes. 

Hoping peaceful nights are ahead...

Lots of love.

Moving along quite nicely...

We have made some SERIOUS progress in Gwen's room!  Last weekend, we decided to stay home and get painting... well Jason did, I supervised, only because I couldn't really be around the paint.  We can't get over how much we love the new print (Bubble Gum by: Bananafish), and we found the perfect colors for the walls.  We decided on Pink Destiny for the top half and Greenhouse Tint for the bottom, with a white chair rail in the middle. 

Here is a before picture, with the room all taped out:

With the Pink Destiny done...

Both colors done, and tape removed... Love it!

The Bubble Gum curtain against the two colors, it really looks perfect! (At least we think so)

Here is our cutie pie's crib (Parker in Cherry by: Da Vinci)

We also bought new heat/sun repellent plantation blinds in White, hope to get them both up soon.

So, it seems we are just sailing right along!  Although, I have to admit, I just want to keep going and going until the room is done.  I LOVE seeing a finished project.  But, Rome wasn't built in a day, Lol!

Tons of love to you.