Oh how I have anticipated this post! We are past the 12 week milestone! Making our way out of the fatigue trimester (I mean, first trimester) and heading onto the second! I guess technically speaking, I have 2 more weeks until the second trimester officially begins... but whats 2 weeks?
I have had this past weekend circled and starred in my calendar since I found out I was pregnant! The next biggie will be July 9th, which will be 20 weeks (halfway!) but I know there is a possibility of a couple additional milestones before then. Such as finding out gender, possibly feeling movement, etc. I feel a huge sense of relief as I step past 12 weeks and into the weeks ahead! My appetite has returned. I still crave different foods, but the difference is, I crave MORE of it now! Actually, this weekend, my Mom threw a wonderful couple's shower for one of my childhood friends. Well, this couple (like most of us) loves Moe's, so we had a Taco Bar. That was BLISS. I wish there was a Moe's taco bar set up permanently at my office or even at my house. There is NOTHING I like more than being able to decide how much Pico de Gallo and Salsa I want on my tacos! And I want A LOT. Seriously though. It was good. Cater Moe's for your next party!
In other news... not much has changed. I have a little bump that REALLY shows when I wear skirts. However, since Atlanta is currently experiencing a taste of fall/winter in mid-May, I have been forced to wear jeans, which really just makes the bump look more like fat and makes me feel flat uncomfortable! All in due time.
After doing some research online, Fenwick is 3 inches long. If you want a frame of reference, scroll up to the top of my blog where it says "MR. AND MRS. SHARP + 1" 3 inches would be "MR. AND MRS." stopping just short of the S in Sharp! In terms of the produce section, the size of a peach!
I had my 12 week appointment this afternoon and everything went well. Got my blood work done (gag). That was too many vials of blood for my liking! At least its over .. for now! The OB was able to pick up the heartbeat by using some handheld device that she held on my stomach. It seemed too easy to be possible, but sure enough.. that heart beat was loud and clear, and fast! There's nothing more comforting than that sound- I can assure you of that!
That about sums it up for this week! Unfortunately, no picture updates to go along with this appointment. HOPEFULLY, by the time the next appointment rolls around (June 20th) ... we will have updated pictures and updated gender news! Fingers crossed the baby is positioned JUST right! So let the countdown begin anew: 35 days until Fenwick becomes a he or a she! I'll add a poll for those of you who follow to VOTE on the website. Lets see if majority TRULY wins!
A blog to store memories, photos, and videos of our growing family.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
My First Mother's Day
Well, this is my first official post on the public blog, so hello! Most of you are probably used to reading about the food I have been cooking. You won't be seeing quite as many posts on that blog as my appetite has changed dramatically and due to heavy fatigue, the last thing I want to do is photograph my cooking (Or lack thereof!)
Anyways, let me back-fill a little bit. I really hadn't thought twice about this being my first mother's day until about Friday when someone in my office (Barb) gave me my first mother's day card! It dawned on me at that point, that yes, this would count as Mother's Day for me. I am a Mom! I am already changing how I eat and the daily decisions I make for this 11 week, 3 day old baby. Thats a good start to motherhood, right? I think I got so caught up in planning how to celebrate my Mom's birthday which was Friday, and mother's day for both her and my mother-in-law, that I didn't even think about the fact that I could enjoy the day as well!
Saturday was a great day. It was a mother-daughter date-day and I think I may need one of those a month from here on out! It was the best day I've had in a very long time. We started off by going to lunch with a couple friends at this wonderful hole-in-the-wall place called Souper Jenny's (check them out by clicking here). The menu changes daily, but WOW did we fall on a great day. EVERYONE loved the food. We even paid to take some pints of soup home! Mom and I had this AWESOME pita sandwich stuffed with homemade hummus, Tzatziki Suace, fresh tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Oh my gosh. Word don't describe it. I got some amazing Chicken Tortilla Soup which we will be enjoying again tonight since I got take out. Okay, enough about food. Moving on...
After lunch, we made a quick stop home to drop off our refrigerated goods and then headed to the avenue. Our initial reason for going was to look for a larger sized bra (just being honest) as things are changing on this body! To say we got side-tracked is an understatement. We started at American Eagle where I bought a couple of shirts and tank tops a size up to accomodate the bump. After that we wandered into the Loft. Mom was able to find some new tops that look wonderful on her. I lucked into finding a dress that is very forgiving that I can wear for 2 weddings that we are attending this summer! It was only $34 but it's awesome! Purple, not ususally my first choice, but I love it! Well, then we made our way to Pea in the Pod. BEST. STOP. EVER. I realize most people are disgusted by maternity jeans and skirts etc. but I am a HUGE fan. I got some awesome jeans and an awesome skirt that are SO comfortable. I also got 4 maternity tops in different colors that just fit SO nice. I cannot thank my Mom enough for that purchase. I have a whole new outlook on this pregnancy. I have a SHOT at being attractive throughout the remaining 6 months :) Well, when we walked out of there, we were already pushing it to make our movie date on time. So we headed straight to the theater to see "Something Borrowed." I'll spare you the movie review, simply because, I have already strayed too far from the topic of Mother's Day! After the movie, we went to dinner at Ted's Montana Grill STRICTLY so that we could order Strawberry Shortcake for dessert. And we did. And we ate it. ALL of it. And it was divine. Well, we had just enough time to sneak back to the Avenue and hit up Victoria Secret for the previously mentioned item. Success. And so ended Saturday. A wonderful Saturday.
Sunday morning came along and when I walked downstairs to give my Mom her mother's day card (we spent the night there as the guys were out late at a concert), there was an array of presents waiting for this Mother-to-Be. It was the sweetest sight I've seen!
Mom had given us a couple story books for the baby as well as a sling that we had looked at online and that I secretly wanted :) My Mom is so good at that. Well, by the time Nick got ready for Church, we had to take off before I was able to open his gifts. That's okay though, I love extending present opening throughout the day! Church was great. We ended up going to brunch afterwards at Bistro VG and met up with Bryan, Erin, KC, and of course Jackson! Erin, the sweetest sister-in-law, had hand made 2 jars of sugar scrub for me for mother's day. Grapefruit and Mandarin Orange. YUM! The food was great. I filled up on 2 baskets of french pastries. Muffins, chocolate chip breads, fruit breads. It was poor self control but I didn't care. After brunch, we went back home and I got to open up the remainder of my gifts. Nick got a green and brown SOFT SOFT baby blanket! It's precious! He also got me a maternity tank top and an adorable gray maternity t-shirt/top. I LOVE IT! I will get his moneys worth out of that purchase! He also got me some maternity shorts. I'd say I'm set through summer, wouldn't you all agree!?
Well, the day continued, we went and took care of an issue with ordering a new stove for our kitchen. Sounds like the last thing some would want to do on mother's day, but you don't understand how badly we need a new stove! So, I enjoyed even this errand! Afterwards, we ran over to Pike's to get a new hanging basket and shepherd's hook. Long story there, but we made out with some very pretty hybrid impatients. Dinner was nothing special (cereal and ramen noodles) but I really wasn't that hungry after brunch. We ended up going to TCBY later in the evening just to fatten me up ONE more time this weekend. I didn't complain. Overall it was a fabulous weekend. The weather was ideal. The bump is showing. I am regaining my energy and just loving life pregnant right now. Next Monday is the official 12 week appointment and that will mark the end of the first 3 months. CRAZY. But very exciting!
I cannot say it enough, but I love this baby so much already! I cannot wait to start feeling it kick and move around. I cannot wait until its developed enough to hear Nick and myself talk to it, sing to it etc. Oh the joys that are ahead. I just pray that I treasure each week and don't wish for the "end" so soon! I've said it on facebook, but THANK YOU to everyone who made Sunday so special for me. Those that sent text messages or facebook message. Those that sent cards or called or gave gifts. You are so precious to me and I am so grateful for the love you already show me and our baby!
I don't want to promise anything, but we should be able to have some pictures up next week after the appointment :) Until then.... here's to just shy of 12 weeks pregnant! Go ahead and raise your glass, I'll keep drinking water!
Anyways, let me back-fill a little bit. I really hadn't thought twice about this being my first mother's day until about Friday when someone in my office (Barb) gave me my first mother's day card! It dawned on me at that point, that yes, this would count as Mother's Day for me. I am a Mom! I am already changing how I eat and the daily decisions I make for this 11 week, 3 day old baby. Thats a good start to motherhood, right? I think I got so caught up in planning how to celebrate my Mom's birthday which was Friday, and mother's day for both her and my mother-in-law, that I didn't even think about the fact that I could enjoy the day as well!
Saturday was a great day. It was a mother-daughter date-day and I think I may need one of those a month from here on out! It was the best day I've had in a very long time. We started off by going to lunch with a couple friends at this wonderful hole-in-the-wall place called Souper Jenny's (check them out by clicking here). The menu changes daily, but WOW did we fall on a great day. EVERYONE loved the food. We even paid to take some pints of soup home! Mom and I had this AWESOME pita sandwich stuffed with homemade hummus, Tzatziki Suace, fresh tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Oh my gosh. Word don't describe it. I got some amazing Chicken Tortilla Soup which we will be enjoying again tonight since I got take out. Okay, enough about food. Moving on...
After lunch, we made a quick stop home to drop off our refrigerated goods and then headed to the avenue. Our initial reason for going was to look for a larger sized bra (just being honest) as things are changing on this body! To say we got side-tracked is an understatement. We started at American Eagle where I bought a couple of shirts and tank tops a size up to accomodate the bump. After that we wandered into the Loft. Mom was able to find some new tops that look wonderful on her. I lucked into finding a dress that is very forgiving that I can wear for 2 weddings that we are attending this summer! It was only $34 but it's awesome! Purple, not ususally my first choice, but I love it! Well, then we made our way to Pea in the Pod. BEST. STOP. EVER. I realize most people are disgusted by maternity jeans and skirts etc. but I am a HUGE fan. I got some awesome jeans and an awesome skirt that are SO comfortable. I also got 4 maternity tops in different colors that just fit SO nice. I cannot thank my Mom enough for that purchase. I have a whole new outlook on this pregnancy. I have a SHOT at being attractive throughout the remaining 6 months :) Well, when we walked out of there, we were already pushing it to make our movie date on time. So we headed straight to the theater to see "Something Borrowed." I'll spare you the movie review, simply because, I have already strayed too far from the topic of Mother's Day! After the movie, we went to dinner at Ted's Montana Grill STRICTLY so that we could order Strawberry Shortcake for dessert. And we did. And we ate it. ALL of it. And it was divine. Well, we had just enough time to sneak back to the Avenue and hit up Victoria Secret for the previously mentioned item. Success. And so ended Saturday. A wonderful Saturday.
Sunday morning came along and when I walked downstairs to give my Mom her mother's day card (we spent the night there as the guys were out late at a concert), there was an array of presents waiting for this Mother-to-Be. It was the sweetest sight I've seen!
Well, the day continued, we went and took care of an issue with ordering a new stove for our kitchen. Sounds like the last thing some would want to do on mother's day, but you don't understand how badly we need a new stove! So, I enjoyed even this errand! Afterwards, we ran over to Pike's to get a new hanging basket and shepherd's hook. Long story there, but we made out with some very pretty hybrid impatients. Dinner was nothing special (cereal and ramen noodles) but I really wasn't that hungry after brunch. We ended up going to TCBY later in the evening just to fatten me up ONE more time this weekend. I didn't complain. Overall it was a fabulous weekend. The weather was ideal. The bump is showing. I am regaining my energy and just loving life pregnant right now. Next Monday is the official 12 week appointment and that will mark the end of the first 3 months. CRAZY. But very exciting!
I cannot say it enough, but I love this baby so much already! I cannot wait to start feeling it kick and move around. I cannot wait until its developed enough to hear Nick and myself talk to it, sing to it etc. Oh the joys that are ahead. I just pray that I treasure each week and don't wish for the "end" so soon! I've said it on facebook, but THANK YOU to everyone who made Sunday so special for me. Those that sent text messages or facebook message. Those that sent cards or called or gave gifts. You are so precious to me and I am so grateful for the love you already show me and our baby!
I don't want to promise anything, but we should be able to have some pictures up next week after the appointment :) Until then.... here's to just shy of 12 weeks pregnant! Go ahead and raise your glass, I'll keep drinking water!
Monday, May 2, 2011
The Countdown to Second Trimester Begins!
Well, 10 weeks 3 days today. That means I am a mere 1 week 5 days away from week 12 which will mark the end of my first trimester. Why the excitement, you may wonder? 2 main things come to mind:
1. The risk of miscarriage drops significantly!
2. I should be saying goodbye to the heavy fatigue/tiredness/loss of appetite as I bid farewell to the first 12 weeks of pregnancy!
I cannot express how much I long to have my energy back to normal. Just throwing a football last night in the driveway with Nick took it out of me after about 5 minutes. I always want to nap. I always want to lay down/sit down/rest. I know there is a lot going on in my body, but I hate how lazy and worthless I feel! I just trust that all this fatigue means my body is working hard to make a healthy and perfect little baby!
Just to keep track for the fun of it. Everyone has their own predictions on the sex of this baby already. Nick thinks we will have a boy. Kelsie thinks we will have a girl. My Mom hasn't said either way yet, but I think she thinks girl. Jackson, my 2 year old nephew, refers to Fenwick as SHE. A couple of our friends from small group (Justin and Jennifer) are predicting boy. A 50-50 split really. I did this funky Chinese calendar predictor. It said boy. I took an online quiz. It said boy! Only God knows the gender of this little one! Either way, I am scavenging baby names like its my full time job! I should really wait until we know for sure what we are having and it would REALLY narrow down the search!
My belly sure is sticking out. Not like a cute pregnant person. More like a skinny person that eats too much and it only shows as a fat roll on the stomach. Fenwick, I love you, but you are not good for the figure ;) But we knew that would be the case, didn't we?
I must say, God has truly answered my prayers, and the prayers of those who have joined with me in the battle against all the fears of the first trimester. He has given me peace. My mind does not fret every day about possibly losing this baby. He has given me joy despite my changing body. I welcome it. I'm not grossed out by it. I'm not trying to diet or lose weight somewhere else to compensate. I am just going with it! And for those that REALLY and TRULY know me- I don't deal well with weight gain! He has given me such great support from friends, family, and my husband. Nick was so stressed out/freaked out the first day, but I think he's just as excited as me at this point! It's so great to know that I have so many people praying over me and this baby. And those same sweet people will be the first to hold, love, talk to, and cuddle our new baby in November! I don't think I can thank everyone enough and again, we are only on week 10! God is working through all of them, and of course, working in me as well!
Okay, not much more to report at this point.... just anxiously awaiting that next ultrasound on May 16th!!
1. The risk of miscarriage drops significantly!
2. I should be saying goodbye to the heavy fatigue/tiredness/loss of appetite as I bid farewell to the first 12 weeks of pregnancy!
I cannot express how much I long to have my energy back to normal. Just throwing a football last night in the driveway with Nick took it out of me after about 5 minutes. I always want to nap. I always want to lay down/sit down/rest. I know there is a lot going on in my body, but I hate how lazy and worthless I feel! I just trust that all this fatigue means my body is working hard to make a healthy and perfect little baby!
Just to keep track for the fun of it. Everyone has their own predictions on the sex of this baby already. Nick thinks we will have a boy. Kelsie thinks we will have a girl. My Mom hasn't said either way yet, but I think she thinks girl. Jackson, my 2 year old nephew, refers to Fenwick as SHE. A couple of our friends from small group (Justin and Jennifer) are predicting boy. A 50-50 split really. I did this funky Chinese calendar predictor. It said boy. I took an online quiz. It said boy! Only God knows the gender of this little one! Either way, I am scavenging baby names like its my full time job! I should really wait until we know for sure what we are having and it would REALLY narrow down the search!
My belly sure is sticking out. Not like a cute pregnant person. More like a skinny person that eats too much and it only shows as a fat roll on the stomach. Fenwick, I love you, but you are not good for the figure ;) But we knew that would be the case, didn't we?
I must say, God has truly answered my prayers, and the prayers of those who have joined with me in the battle against all the fears of the first trimester. He has given me peace. My mind does not fret every day about possibly losing this baby. He has given me joy despite my changing body. I welcome it. I'm not grossed out by it. I'm not trying to diet or lose weight somewhere else to compensate. I am just going with it! And for those that REALLY and TRULY know me- I don't deal well with weight gain! He has given me such great support from friends, family, and my husband. Nick was so stressed out/freaked out the first day, but I think he's just as excited as me at this point! It's so great to know that I have so many people praying over me and this baby. And those same sweet people will be the first to hold, love, talk to, and cuddle our new baby in November! I don't think I can thank everyone enough and again, we are only on week 10! God is working through all of them, and of course, working in me as well!
Okay, not much more to report at this point.... just anxiously awaiting that next ultrasound on May 16th!!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Easter Weekend Pregnant!
Well, for some reason, last Monday feels like ages ago! I can't even remember typing that last post! I had a couple days of reprieve last week from the pregnancy symptoms, however, they have returned. More tired than ever! Hoping this subsides in about 3 weeks when I reach the second trimester! I won't get my hopes up quite yet!
So here I am, at 9 weeks 3 days pregnant and this little baby is the size of, take your pick: A grape or a medium sized olive. It cracks me up that every size graduation of the fetus is related to food! Speaking of food- I am doing a pretty good job eating lately if I do say so myself! This weekend was a FEAST for me! It all started on Saturday night when we went to downtown Roswell at a spot called Roux. AMAZING food. I had half of a flatbread appetizer. Then I moved on to a veggie burger (topped with a fried green tomato) and sauteed veggies. After dinner, we stopped by Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt where I got a mix of cake batter and peanut butter yogurt topped with blueberries and pretzels. For those of you who have heard you aren't supposed to eat soft serve frozen yogurt while pregnant- you are right. I justify this by the fact that I have eliminated all coffee, sodas, and chocolate from my diet! Questions? Didn't think so. Sunday morning came early, and we had a wonderful Easter Brunch with family at Oak Street Cafe. My stomach was yelling at me for not eating before Church so I scarfed down a bowl of yogurt and granola. Can I just say you have NEVER experienced granola until you've experienced it as Oak Street. WOW. It was amazing. Then I ordered a half order of blueberry pancakes. Also amazing! Scarfed them. Later in the afternoon I ate about 12 cups of popcorn (maybe more to be honest). Dad's popcorn machine is the best. No competition. Finally, time for dinner, and I enjoyed a long craved burger ON A BUN! With mom's pasta salad and fresh cooked beets. Oh how my love of food has changed/returned! I NEVER craved/desired burgers before this baby. Now- a hamburger sounds like bliss to me! Yes, I majored in exercise science.
Moving on from food tales ... I have started to develop a little baby bump. Looks more like a bloated bump or gained 5 pounds bump, but its there! Could be a result of all the food I ate, or it could be baby! Not sure! I stepped on the scale today and I have finally gained weight! I was losing at first, which was kind of odd, but we are up 2 pounds! Its fun now. Seeing this little belly (and yes, its little) but seeing that its not going away like bloating does. Giving people hugs and having a hard time "squeezing" them due to enlarged areas of my body. Yeah- its all fun now.
OH- let me tell you a terrible idea I had this weekend. A WALK. Oh, its so nice outside, I'll go for a walk instead of going to the gym. I walked about 25-30 minutes. No extreme hills, but our neighborhood is hilly nonetheless. My butt and my shins are STILL sore. That was Saturday. It hurts to walk. To move really. Crazy how different your walking muscles are from your running muscles!
All around, it was a good week. A good 8th week pregnant. We were able to share the holiday with EVERYONE on both sides of the family. Good Friday we spent at Verizon for Passion City Church's service. AWESOME. Worship was awesome. Saturday we were able to do an Easter Egg Hunt with ROC (Reach One Church) with ALL of our neices nephews, brothers, sisters, parents. It was great! Later on Saturday we went to see Olivia, our oldest niece, play softball. She did awesome and they won! Then Saturday night started the food activities you read about above!
Easter truly is the best holiday for Christians. So much joy around the events of Easter Sunday. Being with family is truly the best way I can think of to celebrate such an occasion! I wouldn't trade the weekend I had for anything! It was the best. Full of fun memories. Full of worship to the Savior who is still alive and still reigning and still moving in our hearts today! Praise the Lord! This Savior who is alive is knitting this baby together in my womb. I am so thankful for that!
That's all for now! See you at the 10 week mark!
So here I am, at 9 weeks 3 days pregnant and this little baby is the size of, take your pick: A grape or a medium sized olive. It cracks me up that every size graduation of the fetus is related to food! Speaking of food- I am doing a pretty good job eating lately if I do say so myself! This weekend was a FEAST for me! It all started on Saturday night when we went to downtown Roswell at a spot called Roux. AMAZING food. I had half of a flatbread appetizer. Then I moved on to a veggie burger (topped with a fried green tomato) and sauteed veggies. After dinner, we stopped by Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt where I got a mix of cake batter and peanut butter yogurt topped with blueberries and pretzels. For those of you who have heard you aren't supposed to eat soft serve frozen yogurt while pregnant- you are right. I justify this by the fact that I have eliminated all coffee, sodas, and chocolate from my diet! Questions? Didn't think so. Sunday morning came early, and we had a wonderful Easter Brunch with family at Oak Street Cafe. My stomach was yelling at me for not eating before Church so I scarfed down a bowl of yogurt and granola. Can I just say you have NEVER experienced granola until you've experienced it as Oak Street. WOW. It was amazing. Then I ordered a half order of blueberry pancakes. Also amazing! Scarfed them. Later in the afternoon I ate about 12 cups of popcorn (maybe more to be honest). Dad's popcorn machine is the best. No competition. Finally, time for dinner, and I enjoyed a long craved burger ON A BUN! With mom's pasta salad and fresh cooked beets. Oh how my love of food has changed/returned! I NEVER craved/desired burgers before this baby. Now- a hamburger sounds like bliss to me! Yes, I majored in exercise science.
Moving on from food tales ... I have started to develop a little baby bump. Looks more like a bloated bump or gained 5 pounds bump, but its there! Could be a result of all the food I ate, or it could be baby! Not sure! I stepped on the scale today and I have finally gained weight! I was losing at first, which was kind of odd, but we are up 2 pounds! Its fun now. Seeing this little belly (and yes, its little) but seeing that its not going away like bloating does. Giving people hugs and having a hard time "squeezing" them due to enlarged areas of my body. Yeah- its all fun now.
OH- let me tell you a terrible idea I had this weekend. A WALK. Oh, its so nice outside, I'll go for a walk instead of going to the gym. I walked about 25-30 minutes. No extreme hills, but our neighborhood is hilly nonetheless. My butt and my shins are STILL sore. That was Saturday. It hurts to walk. To move really. Crazy how different your walking muscles are from your running muscles!
All around, it was a good week. A good 8th week pregnant. We were able to share the holiday with EVERYONE on both sides of the family. Good Friday we spent at Verizon for Passion City Church's service. AWESOME. Worship was awesome. Saturday we were able to do an Easter Egg Hunt with ROC (Reach One Church) with ALL of our neices nephews, brothers, sisters, parents. It was great! Later on Saturday we went to see Olivia, our oldest niece, play softball. She did awesome and they won! Then Saturday night started the food activities you read about above!
Easter truly is the best holiday for Christians. So much joy around the events of Easter Sunday. Being with family is truly the best way I can think of to celebrate such an occasion! I wouldn't trade the weekend I had for anything! It was the best. Full of fun memories. Full of worship to the Savior who is still alive and still reigning and still moving in our hearts today! Praise the Lord! This Savior who is alive is knitting this baby together in my womb. I am so thankful for that!
That's all for now! See you at the 10 week mark!
Monday, April 18, 2011
My Baby is the Size of a Raspberry!
Well, today we are 8 weeks along, and change. 3 days of change to be exact! Our little baby is the size of a raspberry. While still small, it's neat to imagine that the baby is actually holdable! I mean, a raspberry is big enough to see, touch, notice fine detail. I guess... what I'm trying to say.. is we have upgraded from a seed! It just seems more real as I start to see "actual size" relations. Limbs have started to emerge from the fetus and there is already webbing between the fingers and toes. Not only that, but this little baby is already MOVING those limbs! I wish I could feel that!
As far as my body goes- I am basically permanently bloated looking/feeling. Stomach isn't flat, but its not looking pregnant either. Just uncomfortably making pants tighter, shirts tighter, everything that would cause a girl to go shopping! However, I am trying to restrain until I truly need maternity clothes! I do enjoy this time of being pregnant. Although the fatigue is EXTREME and I constantly crave bed, sleep, rest, and lazy days, I know its because my body is using all the energy to create this new life inside of me. I like to still look and feel my normal self, but know that there is a baby in me, as little as it may show on the outside! I know there will be a day when I get sick of having a huge belly- so right now- I am valuing the "normalness" of bending over, shaving, laying on my back or my stomach while sleeping, etc. Sometimes I find myself so anxious to be to the NEXT week.. or 12 weeks.. or 20 weeks so I can find out the gender. But these early weeks are precious too. The most vital parts of development are happening inside of my baby right now, and I want to do whatever it takes to make sure this baby has the best chance I can give it to develop in a healthy way. Why rush?
I am also learning that getting pregnant isn't just about the end result. Well, it is, and I want to meet this baby more than anything else.. but its also about the journey! I only have 7 more months to carry this baby inside of me and then it is out in this world. A world that is uncontrollable. A world that is cruel, sinful, and selfish. I can protect my baby from the world only 7 more months! But in those months, it will learn my voice, my smell. We will be connected in such a unique way that I've never known with anyone else before.
All this rambling to say. I enjoy being pregnant. Yes I have my hard days, tired days, frustrated days. But I enjoy this. And I look forward to experiencing each and every day, week, month of pregnancy!
As far as my body goes- I am basically permanently bloated looking/feeling. Stomach isn't flat, but its not looking pregnant either. Just uncomfortably making pants tighter, shirts tighter, everything that would cause a girl to go shopping! However, I am trying to restrain until I truly need maternity clothes! I do enjoy this time of being pregnant. Although the fatigue is EXTREME and I constantly crave bed, sleep, rest, and lazy days, I know its because my body is using all the energy to create this new life inside of me. I like to still look and feel my normal self, but know that there is a baby in me, as little as it may show on the outside! I know there will be a day when I get sick of having a huge belly- so right now- I am valuing the "normalness" of bending over, shaving, laying on my back or my stomach while sleeping, etc. Sometimes I find myself so anxious to be to the NEXT week.. or 12 weeks.. or 20 weeks so I can find out the gender. But these early weeks are precious too. The most vital parts of development are happening inside of my baby right now, and I want to do whatever it takes to make sure this baby has the best chance I can give it to develop in a healthy way. Why rush?
I am also learning that getting pregnant isn't just about the end result. Well, it is, and I want to meet this baby more than anything else.. but its also about the journey! I only have 7 more months to carry this baby inside of me and then it is out in this world. A world that is uncontrollable. A world that is cruel, sinful, and selfish. I can protect my baby from the world only 7 more months! But in those months, it will learn my voice, my smell. We will be connected in such a unique way that I've never known with anyone else before.
All this rambling to say. I enjoy being pregnant. Yes I have my hard days, tired days, frustrated days. But I enjoy this. And I look forward to experiencing each and every day, week, month of pregnancy!
Monday, April 11, 2011
And We've Got a Heartbeat!
Well, after an eternity (also known as 3 weeks), we finally made it to our first prenatal appointment! Fenwick's heart is beating FAST. From what I understand, that is a good thing and a normal thing! Not only could we see it fluttering all over the monitor, but we got to hear it! That was the most beautiful noise I think I've heard in a long time! I still can't get over the fact that there is something alive inside of me! I knew I was pregnant. But now... I don't know. Now I know I am pregnant with a baby whose heart is pounding away! It feels like I'm 100 steps closer to meeting this little baby just by having this appointment!
And, as expected, I am about 7 weeks and 3 days pregnant. Our little baby will be making an entrance right around Thanksgiving. Not my ideal birth date of choice, but thats okay! I guess I'll just be EXTRA thankful for this new bundle! November 25th is the exact date for the moment. Right now, Fenwick measures 1.18cm. Crazy, isn't it? Oh but I love this child. I was so glad that Nick was able to be there with me today to witness this miracle. My next appointment is on May 16th and while that sounds so far away, it doesn't seem long at all. To know that I'll be 12 weeks along at that point and we'll be able to get some good ultrasound pictures! Oh I just cannot wait. The first wait was the longest, but from this point forward, now that I've seen that heart, I will cherish each and every day I have with this little baby inside of me. I will not wish it away as I did the last 3 weeks. There was just so much relief in knowing that everything was okay and fine with Fenwick, just as I had prayed for all along. I woke up at 5:15 am this morning. Why? To go to the gym. Well, since I've had a nasty head cold, I hit the OFF button and decided I would sleep in. That DID NOT happen, so instead, I had a sweet time of prayer for a good 30 minutes to pray over this appointment and our baby. I am so thankful for that time. The house was silent. I was alone. I wasn't tired, but I wasn't ready to get up for the day. If I could have that time every morning, I think I'd be a different person!
Well, my thoughts feel so jumbled today. I am just so elated. I've been waiting for this day for so long so I could shout to the world (the facebook world, that is) that we are pregnant! But the one thought that prevails is HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD? This could never happen by evolution or by chance. That a couple of cells could merge and form a baby. A baby with a heartbeat already? A baby that will soon be growing faster than my stomach will appreciate? I am so thankful. I am so blessed. And I am still in awe as I hold this picture in my hand of the baby I will meet in only 33 weeks!
Thats all for now! More to come Week 8!
And, as expected, I am about 7 weeks and 3 days pregnant. Our little baby will be making an entrance right around Thanksgiving. Not my ideal birth date of choice, but thats okay! I guess I'll just be EXTRA thankful for this new bundle! November 25th is the exact date for the moment. Right now, Fenwick measures 1.18cm. Crazy, isn't it? Oh but I love this child. I was so glad that Nick was able to be there with me today to witness this miracle. My next appointment is on May 16th and while that sounds so far away, it doesn't seem long at all. To know that I'll be 12 weeks along at that point and we'll be able to get some good ultrasound pictures! Oh I just cannot wait. The first wait was the longest, but from this point forward, now that I've seen that heart, I will cherish each and every day I have with this little baby inside of me. I will not wish it away as I did the last 3 weeks. There was just so much relief in knowing that everything was okay and fine with Fenwick, just as I had prayed for all along. I woke up at 5:15 am this morning. Why? To go to the gym. Well, since I've had a nasty head cold, I hit the OFF button and decided I would sleep in. That DID NOT happen, so instead, I had a sweet time of prayer for a good 30 minutes to pray over this appointment and our baby. I am so thankful for that time. The house was silent. I was alone. I wasn't tired, but I wasn't ready to get up for the day. If I could have that time every morning, I think I'd be a different person!
Well, my thoughts feel so jumbled today. I am just so elated. I've been waiting for this day for so long so I could shout to the world (the facebook world, that is) that we are pregnant! But the one thought that prevails is HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD? This could never happen by evolution or by chance. That a couple of cells could merge and form a baby. A baby with a heartbeat already? A baby that will soon be growing faster than my stomach will appreciate? I am so thankful. I am so blessed. And I am still in awe as I hold this picture in my hand of the baby I will meet in only 33 weeks!
Thats all for now! More to come Week 8!
Monday, April 4, 2011
Officially Known As Fenwick the Fetus!
One may wonder, why such a strange name for the title of this blog post? Believe me, this was no acclaimed nickname I dreamed up as a child and thought to myself, I will name my child Fenwick one day! It just so happened, that when I asked my 2 year old nephew, Jackson, what I should name my baby, he nonchalantly replied, FENWICK. And then kept playing stickers while at the dinner table. At first, I thought he said Frederick, but apparently, there is a story he reads or a show he watches with a character named Fenwick. Well, it kind of stuck. Fenwick the fetus. And quite honestly, I prefer to refer to our baby as Fenwick over "it." I hate the thought of knowing that my baby is either a boy or a girl at this point, but I don't know what "it" is. Let me assure you, having to call your own child "it" is disheartening. So, Fenwick works. At least until the 20 week mark or so! Just goes to show you how nicknames really come about. They may or may not have to do with your actual name, but rather the crazy people (usually family) in your life at that time.
I was actually discussing this fact with my cousins as we sat on the beach trying to think of baby names that have good nicknames. Then, while walking to the house, we listed off all of our family nicknames and 99% of them have no relation to our real names whatsoever!
On another note, I think I have started to see a little growth in the belly. Nothing major, and nothing that a passerby would point out and say- "HOW FAR ALONG ARE YOU?" But, for me, looking down is a completely different view than it was 2 weeks ago! People closest to me would probably argue, but I have something to say. When its your own body, you notice. Unfortunately, this is a blurry line to draw as I happened to eat QUITE well this weekend at my brother's wedding! Perhaps it truly was a food baby rather than a baby.
All kidding aside, I have since come to a peace about this baby. Maybe its the verses I have surrounded myself with at my office. Or maybe it is an answer to my prayers that God just give me peace that He is truly in control of making this baby and growing this baby, and keeping this baby healthy. Yes, there are foods I can eat, and things I can do to help, but there is absolutely NOTHING that I can do to change the fate of this baby's life. God has numbered Fenwick's days. Either way, it is so nice to feel emotionally normal again. Especially since the morning sickness has started up. And let me also say- why the heck is it called Morning Sickness? It should be DAILY sickness. It lasts all day! The only time it stops is if I am running on a treadmill, or in the process of eating. And let me tell you something- I care to do NEITHER of those 24 hours a day. Well, thats not true. I'd love to eat 24 hours a day, but that would be ridiculous.
So, here I am, a week away from my first appointment and I am SO READY. I want to get in there and see this baby! Even if Fenwick looks like a little black blur on a machine print out. I WANT THAT PICTURE! And I want to see that heartbeat. And I want to know that everything is progressing. And I want to know when to expect this baby! All I know is Fenwick will arrive in November. The rest is a mystery!
*I must note, that Fenwick was given a blanket that will be more memorable than any other gift that could be given. My grandmother once bought all of her grandchildren the same type of blanket. All of us girls (Age 22 and older) still sleep with our blankets! Since my grandmother is no longer living, my Aunt gave us a blanket that has the same feel (no silk border, however, I may consider having my mom sew one on!) for Fenwick. I cannot wait to see if our baby loves the blanket as much as I still love my own!*
I was actually discussing this fact with my cousins as we sat on the beach trying to think of baby names that have good nicknames. Then, while walking to the house, we listed off all of our family nicknames and 99% of them have no relation to our real names whatsoever!
On another note, I think I have started to see a little growth in the belly. Nothing major, and nothing that a passerby would point out and say- "HOW FAR ALONG ARE YOU?" But, for me, looking down is a completely different view than it was 2 weeks ago! People closest to me would probably argue, but I have something to say. When its your own body, you notice. Unfortunately, this is a blurry line to draw as I happened to eat QUITE well this weekend at my brother's wedding! Perhaps it truly was a food baby rather than a baby.
All kidding aside, I have since come to a peace about this baby. Maybe its the verses I have surrounded myself with at my office. Or maybe it is an answer to my prayers that God just give me peace that He is truly in control of making this baby and growing this baby, and keeping this baby healthy. Yes, there are foods I can eat, and things I can do to help, but there is absolutely NOTHING that I can do to change the fate of this baby's life. God has numbered Fenwick's days. Either way, it is so nice to feel emotionally normal again. Especially since the morning sickness has started up. And let me also say- why the heck is it called Morning Sickness? It should be DAILY sickness. It lasts all day! The only time it stops is if I am running on a treadmill, or in the process of eating. And let me tell you something- I care to do NEITHER of those 24 hours a day. Well, thats not true. I'd love to eat 24 hours a day, but that would be ridiculous.
So, here I am, a week away from my first appointment and I am SO READY. I want to get in there and see this baby! Even if Fenwick looks like a little black blur on a machine print out. I WANT THAT PICTURE! And I want to see that heartbeat. And I want to know that everything is progressing. And I want to know when to expect this baby! All I know is Fenwick will arrive in November. The rest is a mystery!
*I must note, that Fenwick was given a blanket that will be more memorable than any other gift that could be given. My grandmother once bought all of her grandchildren the same type of blanket. All of us girls (Age 22 and older) still sleep with our blankets! Since my grandmother is no longer living, my Aunt gave us a blanket that has the same feel (no silk border, however, I may consider having my mom sew one on!) for Fenwick. I cannot wait to see if our baby loves the blanket as much as I still love my own!*
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)