- No more swaddling; it was great while it lasted, but Cameron just isn't tolerating having his arms pinned by his sides anymore. Sleepsacks, here we come!
- Giggle contests; these are the best things EVER.
- Hair growing back in; he still has a bald spot on the back of his head, and he never lost that "old man" ring along the base of his neck, but he's starting to sprout new fuzzy growth on the top of his head!
- Hand discovery; chewing on the hands has become a comfort, and no longer relates to whether or not he's hungry. Oh, yeah, and he's been caught sucking on his thumb more than a few times! :-\
- Switch to 3-6 month clothes; he's plumping up nicely, and has outgrown all his 0-3 month clothing. I love all the rolls and dimples!
December 31, 2009
End of the year
So 2009 has come and gone, and Cameron has changed so much in his short time with us! Some of the bigger changes I've noticed lately:
December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas!
It was a busy few days! On Christmas Eve, we headed out to spend time with Chris's extended family. There were lots of people and many new faces, but Cameron handled all the commotion very well.
Then on Christmas day, we woke up and headed north to have breakfast and presents with Chris's family, then came home and had presents with my family, and then made dinner for both families.
We tried to make dinner more low-key this year by asking our guests to each bring a little something, but somehow, we still ended up taking on more than we anticipated. Ah well, it was still a good meal even if we ate later than planned!
Then on Christmas day, we woke up and headed north to have breakfast and presents with Chris's family, then came home and had presents with my family, and then made dinner for both families.
We tried to make dinner more low-key this year by asking our guests to each bring a little something, but somehow, we still ended up taking on more than we anticipated. Ah well, it was still a good meal even if we ate later than planned!
December 13, 2009
2 months!
Okay, so clearly I've been slacking with the blog updates. I have a TON of free time on my hands lately, so I really don't know what my excuse is! ;)
But really, everything is great. We now have a 2-month-old on our hands, and he's doing very well. Gaining weight like a champ, and growing taller each day. See?
We're getting lots of smiles these days, and it's a lot more fun to interact with him. His personality is really starting to shine through!
But really, everything is great. We now have a 2-month-old on our hands, and he's doing very well. Gaining weight like a champ, and growing taller each day. See?
November 27, 2009
Week 7
Up until this point, Cam has been napping anywhere: on us, in his bouncy seat, in the swing, in the Moby or Bjorn, etc. But now we're starting the process of getting him used to his crib. And he successfully napped there for the first time this week! Basically, we want to transition him (eventually) to be sleeping in the crib in his own room at night, and to do this, we have to get him comfortable with that environment, since he's only known in the bassinet upstairs in our room. So far, so good...
We're not quite sure yet when we want that transition to happen, but I'm thinking maybe sometime in December? January is going to bring about lots of changes what with me going back to work. Different caretakers, more bottle feedings, etc. I'd like to try to space out the new things as much as possible.
We also started tummy time this week. He is able to lift his head off the blanket and shift from one cheek to the other, but man, he is NOT very happy about it. Most of the time is spent lying there and crying. I'm sure it must be frustrating to be face down and not be able to do much about it! I just keep thinking about how much his big head weighs. :-/
We're not quite sure yet when we want that transition to happen, but I'm thinking maybe sometime in December? January is going to bring about lots of changes what with me going back to work. Different caretakers, more bottle feedings, etc. I'd like to try to space out the new things as much as possible.
We also started tummy time this week. He is able to lift his head off the blanket and shift from one cheek to the other, but man, he is NOT very happy about it. Most of the time is spent lying there and crying. I'm sure it must be frustrating to be face down and not be able to do much about it! I just keep thinking about how much his big head weighs. :-/
November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
I'm extremely thankful for so many things this year...
I feel very lucky to have had a pregnancy that I can look back on with fond memories, and a lovely, charming little man to show for it. I'm enjoying motherhood, and Chris is proving himself to be a wonderful father. The kitties are adjusting well to life with a new being in the house. We're all healthy (so far; knock on wood!) and happy. Life is good. :)
I feel very lucky to have had a pregnancy that I can look back on with fond memories, and a lovely, charming little man to show for it. I'm enjoying motherhood, and Chris is proving himself to be a wonderful father. The kitties are adjusting well to life with a new being in the house. We're all healthy (so far; knock on wood!) and happy. Life is good. :)
November 22, 2009
Newborn photos
We had some photographs taken when Cam was just 9 days old. It's amazing to see how much he's changed since then!
November 20, 2009
Week 6
We had Cam's 6-week checkup today. He's growing so fast! He now weighs 11 pounds 2 ounces, which means that he gained almost 3 pounds this past month.
And his stats...woo baby! He's measuring in the 75th percentile for length, the 85th percentile for weight, and get this...the 90th percentile for head size! The pedi saw those numbers on the computer screen and immediately said, "okay, so which one of you has a big head?" I raised my hand; I know all-too-well that that trait comes from my side of the family! ;)
He also got 2 vaccine shots today, which rendered him a pretty unhappy camper. It's so hard to watch him dissolve from a happy little man to a screaming, red-faced mess. :( He's napping at the moment though, so hopefully he'll feel a little better when he wakes up. Hopefully!
I had my 6-week checkup yesterday, and I'm happy to report that I'm doing well too. I've been cleared to exercise now, my doc says that I can do pretty much anything I'm comfortable with. Yippee! I have some work to do on my abs, as there's been some separation of the muscles. It's all totally normal and par for the course, but it's pretty weird to feel a big ol' divot where there wasn't one before! I also got my H1N1 shot (as did Chris), so hopefully this will be a healthy winter in our household. Again, hopefully!
And his stats...woo baby! He's measuring in the 75th percentile for length, the 85th percentile for weight, and get this...the 90th percentile for head size! The pedi saw those numbers on the computer screen and immediately said, "okay, so which one of you has a big head?" I raised my hand; I know all-too-well that that trait comes from my side of the family! ;)
He also got 2 vaccine shots today, which rendered him a pretty unhappy camper. It's so hard to watch him dissolve from a happy little man to a screaming, red-faced mess. :( He's napping at the moment though, so hopefully he'll feel a little better when he wakes up. Hopefully!
I had my 6-week checkup yesterday, and I'm happy to report that I'm doing well too. I've been cleared to exercise now, my doc says that I can do pretty much anything I'm comfortable with. Yippee! I have some work to do on my abs, as there's been some separation of the muscles. It's all totally normal and par for the course, but it's pretty weird to feel a big ol' divot where there wasn't one before! I also got my H1N1 shot (as did Chris), so hopefully this will be a healthy winter in our household. Again, hopefully!
November 13, 2009
Week 5
So I started pumping this week, and Chris has been giving Cam his bottle each night. I'm pleased to report that all is going well! He seems to be having no issues bouncing back and forth between the boob, the bottle, and the pacifier. :)
Cam is smiling more lately, and we've even heard a few laughs. One occurred while he was sleeping. It was adorable; his little belly started shaking, he had a big grin on his face, and he made a "huh huh huh" sound. I wish we had been able to catch that on video!
In other news, he's losing more hair from the top of his head. The back of his head, however, still looks the same. Pretty soon he's going to look just like my grandpa. Oh, and he's graduated from newborn size clothing to 0-3 month clothing. He's already taller and putting on some weight!
Cam is smiling more lately, and we've even heard a few laughs. One occurred while he was sleeping. It was adorable; his little belly started shaking, he had a big grin on his face, and he made a "huh huh huh" sound. I wish we had been able to catch that on video!
In other news, he's losing more hair from the top of his head. The back of his head, however, still looks the same. Pretty soon he's going to look just like my grandpa. Oh, and he's graduated from newborn size clothing to 0-3 month clothing. He's already taller and putting on some weight!
November 6, 2009
Week 4
We introduced a pacifier for the first time a few days ago. It was weird and not very tasty at first, but eventually, it was accepted. Score!
I plan to start pumping this weekend, and we'll introduce the bottle for the first time. The pedi says to start with one bottle a day, and to be consistent about offering it each day, as the window for getting babes to accept the pacifier/bottle is small (from 4 to 6 weeks), and once it's closed, it's CLOSED. Wish us luck that it doesn't interfere at all with his other feedings!
Cam is more alert during the days and seems to be more responsive to our faces. We've gotten a few smiles, and they are just the most precious thing I've ever seen. I have yet to capture one on the camera though, they're fleeting!
I plan to start pumping this weekend, and we'll introduce the bottle for the first time. The pedi says to start with one bottle a day, and to be consistent about offering it each day, as the window for getting babes to accept the pacifier/bottle is small (from 4 to 6 weeks), and once it's closed, it's CLOSED. Wish us luck that it doesn't interfere at all with his other feedings!
Cam is more alert during the days and seems to be more responsive to our faces. We've gotten a few smiles, and they are just the most precious thing I've ever seen. I have yet to capture one on the camera though, they're fleeting!
November 1, 2009
Birthday recap
Two years ago, if you asked me what I would be doing on my 30th birthday (which, incidentally, was also my golden birthday: 30 years old on the 30th of the month), I probably would have said that I would be out with a big group of friends, drinking and living it up.
And though my birthday was actually nothing like this, it was great in a totally different way. Chris made me breakfast as I fed Cameron his breakfast. I came downstairs to find a present from each of my guys. Chris got me a box of dark chocolate truffles from this little shop in Berkeley (totally yummy!) and Cameron, that little sweetheart, got me a gift certificate to the spa. You know, in case he stresses me out sometimes, he wants me to be able to relax a little bit. :)
We went out and about for a little while, hit the farmers' market, and came back home to chill for a little while. We took a walk downtown to pick up dinner from a new restaurant. Sushi, oh how I've missed you!
I also had a bit of wine with dinner, maybe about a third of a glass. I'm such a lightweight now!
And though my birthday was actually nothing like this, it was great in a totally different way. Chris made me breakfast as I fed Cameron his breakfast. I came downstairs to find a present from each of my guys. Chris got me a box of dark chocolate truffles from this little shop in Berkeley (totally yummy!) and Cameron, that little sweetheart, got me a gift certificate to the spa. You know, in case he stresses me out sometimes, he wants me to be able to relax a little bit. :)
We went out and about for a little while, hit the farmers' market, and came back home to chill for a little while. We took a walk downtown to pick up dinner from a new restaurant. Sushi, oh how I've missed you!
I also had a bit of wine with dinner, maybe about a third of a glass. I'm such a lightweight now!
October 30, 2009
Week 3
This week was much smoother than last. We're getting into the groove. Cam's blog has a picture of him wearing a onesie that says "Eat Sleep Poop Cry", and that pretty much sums up the groove! Hah.
His eye is much better; we continue to clean it periodically and it looks great. Which is good, because I was afraid that it would be all goopy for months, and that we wouldn't be able to get any cute photos!
One of my biggest obstacles is still sleep, but for a different reason. I wake up in the middle of the night with the light off and a cat asleep on me, and freak out because I think that I've fallen asleep mid-feeding session and forgotten to put Cam back in his bassinet. He has a full head of hair...the cats are furry...see where I could get confused in my just-awoken state? Yeah. I hope this passes soon!
His eye is much better; we continue to clean it periodically and it looks great. Which is good, because I was afraid that it would be all goopy for months, and that we wouldn't be able to get any cute photos!
One of my biggest obstacles is still sleep, but for a different reason. I wake up in the middle of the night with the light off and a cat asleep on me, and freak out because I think that I've fallen asleep mid-feeding session and forgotten to put Cam back in his bassinet. He has a full head of hair...the cats are furry...see where I could get confused in my just-awoken state? Yeah. I hope this passes soon!
October 19, 2009
Week 2
Cameron woke up with a crusty, goopy left eye on Monday. I tried cleaning it, but it persisted, so off to the doctor we went. (Why is it that the days we need to venture out are the days that it is pouring down rain?) Fortunately, it's not an infection. It's a clogged tear duct, which is apparently pretty common in young babies. With a few rounds of a warm washcloth compress and a little duct massage, it's now looking much better. But it could be a recurring issue that we'll deal with for several months.
We then went back to the pedi on Friday for Cam's 2-week checkup. He has gained weight like a champ (he's up 15 ounces in 10 days, and now weighs 8 pounds 6 ounces). This is great news because now that he has surpassed his birth weight, we no longer have to wake him up to eat every 2-3 hours at night. (!!!) We can let him decide when to wake up and eat. He's a good sleeper so far, and even a 4-hour stretch at night is soooooo welcome. I'm just trying to make sure he eats well and often during the days so that he might be more likely to sleep more at night.
Chris went back to school this week, so Cam and I got our first few days alone together. I'm pleased to report that things are going very well. I don't always get a lot done (okay, I don't really get anything done), but the little man is happy. I'm trying to nap when he naps, but that's much easier said than done!
We then went back to the pedi on Friday for Cam's 2-week checkup. He has gained weight like a champ (he's up 15 ounces in 10 days, and now weighs 8 pounds 6 ounces). This is great news because now that he has surpassed his birth weight, we no longer have to wake him up to eat every 2-3 hours at night. (!!!) We can let him decide when to wake up and eat. He's a good sleeper so far, and even a 4-hour stretch at night is soooooo welcome. I'm just trying to make sure he eats well and often during the days so that he might be more likely to sleep more at night.
Chris went back to school this week, so Cam and I got our first few days alone together. I'm pleased to report that things are going very well. I don't always get a lot done (okay, I don't really get anything done), but the little man is happy. I'm trying to nap when he naps, but that's much easier said than done!
1.5 months later...
and my rings fit again. They're snug, but I can get them over my knuckle! :)
I'm still too scared to try on some of my favorite shoes, though. I'll be pretty sad if they don't fit.
I'm still too scared to try on some of my favorite shoes, though. I'll be pretty sad if they don't fit.
October 16, 2009
Week 1
Whew. What a week it has been! I'm actually marveling at the fact that it's been a week already...time has definitely become more fluid and hard to track. I find myself unable to remember when events occurred. Tuesday? Wednesday? I just don't know. I'm happy to report though that all is well.
We were discharged from the hospital on Sunday morning, and have been taking care of Cameron at home since. When we left the hospital, Cam was down 6% from his birth weight. (Some weight loss is normal, as babies are born with excess fluid to tide them over until mom's milk comes in.) We had an appointment with his pediatrician on Monday to check for jaundice and weight loss. The jaundice was not too bad, but he had slipped down to a 9% weight loss. This was of concern because the pedi has a cutoff of 10% before they want to intervene and supplement with formula. We were sent home with an appointment to return the next day for another jaundice and weight check.
Fortunately, feeding has been going very well. It put a bit of pressure on me knowing that I had to make him eat enough and gain weight overnight, but he came through with flying colors. He had gained 5 ounces by the next visit, and the pedi was thrilled. Now, we just have to make it back up to his birth weight by his 2 week appointment. And the pedi thought that jaundice wasn't going to be a big issue for us. The slight yellow tinge to his skin will likely subside on its own in the coming days.
Sleep (or lack of it) is proving to be the biggest hurdle so far. We're making do. But it's hard when we have to wake him up to eat every 2-3 hours. Feeding takes 30-40 minutes, plus the time for a diaper change, burping, and soothing back to sleep. All that adds up to about an hour. And the 2-3 hour window starts from the beginning of the feeding, so even if he wants to eat only every 3 hours, that's only 2 hours of sleep (max) for us in between. But I wouldn't change it for the world. :)
We were discharged from the hospital on Sunday morning, and have been taking care of Cameron at home since. When we left the hospital, Cam was down 6% from his birth weight. (Some weight loss is normal, as babies are born with excess fluid to tide them over until mom's milk comes in.) We had an appointment with his pediatrician on Monday to check for jaundice and weight loss. The jaundice was not too bad, but he had slipped down to a 9% weight loss. This was of concern because the pedi has a cutoff of 10% before they want to intervene and supplement with formula. We were sent home with an appointment to return the next day for another jaundice and weight check.
Fortunately, feeding has been going very well. It put a bit of pressure on me knowing that I had to make him eat enough and gain weight overnight, but he came through with flying colors. He had gained 5 ounces by the next visit, and the pedi was thrilled. Now, we just have to make it back up to his birth weight by his 2 week appointment. And the pedi thought that jaundice wasn't going to be a big issue for us. The slight yellow tinge to his skin will likely subside on its own in the coming days.
Sleep (or lack of it) is proving to be the biggest hurdle so far. We're making do. But it's hard when we have to wake him up to eat every 2-3 hours. Feeding takes 30-40 minutes, plus the time for a diaper change, burping, and soothing back to sleep. All that adds up to about an hour. And the 2-3 hour window starts from the beginning of the feeding, so even if he wants to eat only every 3 hours, that's only 2 hours of sleep (max) for us in between. But I wouldn't change it for the world. :)
October 10, 2009
Announcing...
Mr. Cameron Joseph Baker, born Friday 10/9/09 at 12:10 a.m. He weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces, and measured 21 inches long.
It was quite the labor and delivery journey to get here (feel free to ask me about it if you want the details), but we are just in love with this little man! He's very alert for a newborn, and thus far he has been a pleasure to be around.
We'll be leaving the hospital mid-day on Sunday. If you're local and you'd like to come by to meet him, please give Chris or me a call and we'll try to find a time that works for everyone. :)
We'll be leaving the hospital mid-day on Sunday. If you're local and you'd like to come by to meet him, please give Chris or me a call and we'll try to find a time that works for everyone. :)
October 6, 2009
Cookie's getting evicted!
41w1d
At my checkup today I got hooked up to a fetal monitor for about 30 minutes. At first Cookie wasn't very active (he's more of a night owl like his daddy), but after I changed positions and drank a really gross Capri Sun (wild cherry flavor, BLECH), he started moving around.
Cookie exhibited enough movement to pass the non-stress test, and my levels of amniotic fluid were good, so my doc determined there's no immediate need for me to go to the hospital. But, he also scheduled my induction for tomorrow night. Eeep!
At my checkup today I got hooked up to a fetal monitor for about 30 minutes. At first Cookie wasn't very active (he's more of a night owl like his daddy), but after I changed positions and drank a really gross Capri Sun (wild cherry flavor, BLECH), he started moving around.
Cookie exhibited enough movement to pass the non-stress test, and my levels of amniotic fluid were good, so my doc determined there's no immediate need for me to go to the hospital. But, he also scheduled my induction for tomorrow night. Eeep!
There's still the chance that labor could start on its own before then, but I'm not holding my breath. If nothing happens tonight or tomorrow morning, I go in at 5pm tomorrow and get some medication to help my cervix along. I then spend the night and hope that labor gets going. If it doesn't, there's talk of starting pitocin on Thursday morning.
It definitely isn't how I pictured or planned, but such is life, right? It's so crazy to think that in two days I'll no longer be pregnant!
October 5, 2009
41 weeks
41w0d
Well, according to my doctor I'm actually 40w4d today. But changing my dating system now seems too confusing. So there you go. Either way, this Cookie is overdue!
I feel like a broken record these days. "I'm still here, nothing new to report." I have spells of time where I'm more uncomfortable, but then I also have spells of time where I feel just fine. So, we continue to wait...
Well, according to my doctor I'm actually 40w4d today. But changing my dating system now seems too confusing. So there you go. Either way, this Cookie is overdue!
I feel like a broken record these days. "I'm still here, nothing new to report." I have spells of time where I'm more uncomfortable, but then I also have spells of time where I feel just fine. So, we continue to wait...
October 2, 2009
Diapers
40w4d
Cloth diapering is something that I've been interested in for awhile, and I found this company that offers a very cool trial of several popular brands of cloth diapers. In case you aren't up to speed, there are TONS of brands with lots of different features these days, and it makes it very hard to choose what to buy.
I've spent a lot of time reading user reviews of many different brands, but it really boils down to the fact that what is great for one baby might not be great for the next. So, this trial seemed like the perfect thing: I can use all the different brands for 21 days, and at the end of it, even if I don't like any of them, I pay only $10. Or I can keep what I do like, and they'll just deduct that from my refund. Pretty neat!
Now, off to do more laundry to prep everything...
Cloth diapering is something that I've been interested in for awhile, and I found this company that offers a very cool trial of several popular brands of cloth diapers. In case you aren't up to speed, there are TONS of brands with lots of different features these days, and it makes it very hard to choose what to buy.
I've spent a lot of time reading user reviews of many different brands, but it really boils down to the fact that what is great for one baby might not be great for the next. So, this trial seemed like the perfect thing: I can use all the different brands for 21 days, and at the end of it, even if I don't like any of them, I pay only $10. Or I can keep what I do like, and they'll just deduct that from my refund. Pretty neat!
Now, off to do more laundry to prep everything...
October 1, 2009
Update, 40 weeks
40w3d
Woohoo! We have progress!
I just returned from my 40 week appointment with my doctor. I'm still about 50% effaced, but I'm now beginning to dilate too, which is great news. We scheduled my next follow-up for Tuesday, but hopefully things will get moving before then. His heartbeat is still strong, and though I didn't gain any weight this week, the belly grew another 2 cm. I'm catching up to where I "should" be...I'm now measuring only 1 cm behind instead of 2 cm.
The good news is that if Cookie does decide to get moving this weekend, my doctor happens to be the on-call doctor. Yay for that!
His parting words as I left the office today were "Go and have a baby, already!" I'm working on it doc, I'm working on it!
Woohoo! We have progress!
I just returned from my 40 week appointment with my doctor. I'm still about 50% effaced, but I'm now beginning to dilate too, which is great news. We scheduled my next follow-up for Tuesday, but hopefully things will get moving before then. His heartbeat is still strong, and though I didn't gain any weight this week, the belly grew another 2 cm. I'm catching up to where I "should" be...I'm now measuring only 1 cm behind instead of 2 cm.
The good news is that if Cookie does decide to get moving this weekend, my doctor happens to be the on-call doctor. Yay for that!
His parting words as I left the office today were "Go and have a baby, already!" I'm working on it doc, I'm working on it!
September 30, 2009
So, what's new with YOU?
40w2d
That's a better question, because my answer is "nothing!" Got any exciting stories to tell me? I could live vicariously through them...
Cookie seems to still be content where he is. And I'm feeling much the same. I do have the lovely new symptom of pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel, though. My wrists are fine, but it feels like all my fingers have gone arthritic on me. Fun stuff!
Oh, and can I just say how much I am LOVING this cooler weather? It's so nice to be able to walk from the kitchen to the couch without breaking a sweat! :oP Haha.
That's a better question, because my answer is "nothing!" Got any exciting stories to tell me? I could live vicariously through them...
Cookie seems to still be content where he is. And I'm feeling much the same. I do have the lovely new symptom of pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel, though. My wrists are fine, but it feels like all my fingers have gone arthritic on me. Fun stuff!
Oh, and can I just say how much I am LOVING this cooler weather? It's so nice to be able to walk from the kitchen to the couch without breaking a sweat! :oP Haha.
September 28, 2009
Happy due date!
40w0d
When I went in for my very first ultrasound, my doctor gave me a range of dates, as early measurements can be far from accurate. I happened to pick up on the first day in that range (today) and I started using it as my due date. But he apparently decided to use a date in the middle of the range (October 1) instead, which I didn't learn for several months.
This is good in my opinion, though, because he doesn't really feel comfortable with me going past 41 weeks. Which means I have 3 extra days to get things going if they haven't started already. Which they haven't! We're still just waiting over here.
I'm getting lots of calls, texts, and emails from friends and family checking up on me. It's so nice to know that everyone is looking forward to meeting this little guy as much as we are. I promise that you will all know the news as soon as there is any news to know!
When I went in for my very first ultrasound, my doctor gave me a range of dates, as early measurements can be far from accurate. I happened to pick up on the first day in that range (today) and I started using it as my due date. But he apparently decided to use a date in the middle of the range (October 1) instead, which I didn't learn for several months.
This is good in my opinion, though, because he doesn't really feel comfortable with me going past 41 weeks. Which means I have 3 extra days to get things going if they haven't started already. Which they haven't! We're still just waiting over here.
I'm getting lots of calls, texts, and emails from friends and family checking up on me. It's so nice to know that everyone is looking forward to meeting this little guy as much as we are. I promise that you will all know the news as soon as there is any news to know!
September 24, 2009
Update, 39 weeks
39w3d
My belly grew another centimeter, and his heartbeat is still sounding nice and strong. But progress? Who wants progress anyway? Certainly not Cookie. He seems happy and snug in there, and is currently showing no signs of making an appearance. Ah well. We'll just keep waiting!
I did get a flu shot, though, so at least something productive happened today. ;)
Oh, and I went and got a facial after my doc appointment. Now I'm officially ready! Haha.
My belly grew another centimeter, and his heartbeat is still sounding nice and strong. But progress? Who wants progress anyway? Certainly not Cookie. He seems happy and snug in there, and is currently showing no signs of making an appearance. Ah well. We'll just keep waiting!
I did get a flu shot, though, so at least something productive happened today. ;)
Oh, and I went and got a facial after my doc appointment. Now I'm officially ready! Haha.
September 21, 2009
39 weeks
39w0d
Nothing new to report; we're just waiting...
The nursery is coming together. I'm just doing the last few loads of pre-baby laundry and organizing. All is well for now!
Nothing new to report; we're just waiting...
The nursery is coming together. I'm just doing the last few loads of pre-baby laundry and organizing. All is well for now!
September 18, 2009
New door!
38w4d
Chris has been working on the new door for the nursery for a few weeks now, as time has allowed. It's finally done, and I think it looks great!
From beginning to end:
The too-tall door with multiple layers of paint
The hardware we also purchased at Urban Ore
During the paint-stripping process (there were about 7 layers!)
During the sanding process
The trimmed and sanded door, pre-stain
During the staining process
The finished door!
Chris has been working on the new door for the nursery for a few weeks now, as time has allowed. It's finally done, and I think it looks great!
From beginning to end:
The too-tall door with multiple layers of paintThe hardware we also purchased at Urban OreDuring the paint-stripping process (there were about 7 layers!)During the sanding processThe trimmed and sanded door, pre-stainDuring the staining processThe finished door!September 17, 2009
Nope, no labor yet!
38w3d
I was woken up this morning by a friend who dreamed about Cookie having been born. She was convinced that her dream meant that I was in labor! But I'm sorry to report that no, I'm not quite there yet. It's great that everyone is so excited for his arrival, though!
Edited to add: Several people have actually told me they have dreamt about him having been born already. I have yet to have that dream. :oP
I was woken up this morning by a friend who dreamed about Cookie having been born. She was convinced that her dream meant that I was in labor! But I'm sorry to report that no, I'm not quite there yet. It's great that everyone is so excited for his arrival, though!
Edited to add: Several people have actually told me they have dreamt about him having been born already. I have yet to have that dream. :oP
Update, 38 weeks
38w3d
Well, I'm still 50% effaced and not dilated at all. So I continue to wait. The belly did grow another centimeter though, so at least something is progressing! ;)
Well, I'm still 50% effaced and not dilated at all. So I continue to wait. The belly did grow another centimeter though, so at least something is progressing! ;)
September 14, 2009
38 weeks
38w0d
And the belly hangs even lower! I'm still feeling well, though a bit more tired as sleeping is becoming increasingly difficult on my hips and lower back. I just can't seem to get comfy for long. But I'm making do.
I still feel smaller than I actually am. I keep catching myself in moments where I didn't anticipate the belly being in the way. Like sitting in the car and trying to pass my purse between me and the steering wheel, only to find that the purse doesn't fit. Or parking at the gas station a little too close to a post and finding that when I opened my driver's door I couldn't squeeze out, and having to re-park the car. I guess I need to redefine my buffer zone!
And the belly hangs even lower! I'm still feeling well, though a bit more tired as sleeping is becoming increasingly difficult on my hips and lower back. I just can't seem to get comfy for long. But I'm making do.
I still feel smaller than I actually am. I keep catching myself in moments where I didn't anticipate the belly being in the way. Like sitting in the car and trying to pass my purse between me and the steering wheel, only to find that the purse doesn't fit. Or parking at the gas station a little too close to a post and finding that when I opened my driver's door I couldn't squeeze out, and having to re-park the car. I guess I need to redefine my buffer zone!
September 11, 2009
Maternity leave!
37w4d
As of right now, I'm officially on maternity leave. Woohoo! Working at home for this last month was great. I did end up in the office on a few days, but for the most part I enjoyed the lack of commute and dress code. ;)
I don't really know what I'm going to do with myself come Monday. I mean, I know I'm going to be organizing, doing laundry, running errands, picking up some of the last necessities, etc. I'll be busy I'm sure. But not working in the office, and for such a long stretch of time, will definitely be strange for me!
As of right now, I'm officially on maternity leave. Woohoo! Working at home for this last month was great. I did end up in the office on a few days, but for the most part I enjoyed the lack of commute and dress code. ;)
I don't really know what I'm going to do with myself come Monday. I mean, I know I'm going to be organizing, doing laundry, running errands, picking up some of the last necessities, etc. I'll be busy I'm sure. But not working in the office, and for such a long stretch of time, will definitely be strange for me!
September 10, 2009
Update, 37 weeks
37w3d
Not too much new to report...I'm still 50% effaced and not yet dilated. But my belly has grown another centimeter. My doc's educated guess is that Cookie is now a "nice sized baby" between 5.5 and 6.5 pounds. :)
Not too much new to report...I'm still 50% effaced and not yet dilated. But my belly has grown another centimeter. My doc's educated guess is that Cookie is now a "nice sized baby" between 5.5 and 6.5 pounds. :)
September 7, 2009
37 weeks
37w0d
Babycenter.com says, "Congratulations — your baby is full term! This means that if your baby arrives now, his lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away. Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard)."
Full term? Already?!? Where has this year gone?
I've been hearing from a lot of people lately that I've dropped. And this is evidenced by the amount of belly now hanging out of the bottom of the shirt! Yes, Cookie is sitting lower, but everything else is pretty much the same. He's still squirming around, kicking, and getting hiccups on a regular basis.
Babycenter.com says, "Congratulations — your baby is full term! This means that if your baby arrives now, his lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away. Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard)."
Full term? Already?!? Where has this year gone?
I've been hearing from a lot of people lately that I've dropped. And this is evidenced by the amount of belly now hanging out of the bottom of the shirt! Yes, Cookie is sitting lower, but everything else is pretty much the same. He's still squirming around, kicking, and getting hiccups on a regular basis.
September 4, 2009
Photos are in!
36w4d
Today we received the CD of the maternity photos that we took in early August with Kelly Marie of Kelly M Photography. Here are a few favorites...
Today we received the CD of the maternity photos that we took in early August with Kelly Marie of Kelly M Photography. Here are a few favorites...
September 3, 2009
Update, 36 weeks
36w3d
I just returned from the first of my now-weekly appointments with my OB. Things are looking good: Cookie is still head down, and I'm partially effaced but not dilated yet.
The belly is measuring a bit small (34 cm, when I should be around 36 cm to correspond with the number of weeks), but my doc is not too concerned as I am still showing growth between each of my appointments.
He gave me (what seemed like) a long talk about avoiding the H1N1 swine flu, and told me to call immediately if I experience any flu-like symptoms. It all seemed like common sense to me, but I guess they're very concerned about the susceptibility of the pregnant population, and they're not taking any chances.
Chris and I finished the series of childbirth/infant care classes at the hospital last night, so we're slowly but surely making all the final preparations. No news is good news at this point! :)
I just returned from the first of my now-weekly appointments with my OB. Things are looking good: Cookie is still head down, and I'm partially effaced but not dilated yet.
The belly is measuring a bit small (34 cm, when I should be around 36 cm to correspond with the number of weeks), but my doc is not too concerned as I am still showing growth between each of my appointments.
He gave me (what seemed like) a long talk about avoiding the H1N1 swine flu, and told me to call immediately if I experience any flu-like symptoms. It all seemed like common sense to me, but I guess they're very concerned about the susceptibility of the pregnant population, and they're not taking any chances.
Chris and I finished the series of childbirth/infant care classes at the hospital last night, so we're slowly but surely making all the final preparations. No news is good news at this point! :)
September 1, 2009
Curtains!
36w1d
Thanks Aunt Kelley! The curtains are fantastic! (And way more professional looking than anything I would have sewn.) Now, do you have any interest in sewing new curtains for the rest of the windows in our house?? ;)
Thanks Aunt Kelley! The curtains are fantastic! (And way more professional looking than anything I would have sewn.) Now, do you have any interest in sewing new curtains for the rest of the windows in our house?? ;)
We need to buy a door, too?
36w1d
Anyone who has been to our house knows that though we have lots of doorways, we have very few doors. And the few doors that we do have are accordian style and not very sound- or light-proof. (My mom's house has real doors...but I guess that's the difference between 1893 and 1906!)
So Chris and I took a trip to Urban Ore in Berkeley this weekend to scope out their selection and hopefully find something that would work in the door frame of the nursery. After arriving too late on Saturday to complete our search, we returned on Sunday. We found a door, found the lock, the plates, the knob, paid for it and got it out to the car...when Chris discovered a big crack in the door that we hadn't seen inside. Blah.
So back inside we went, and we were fortunately able to exchange it for one of our second choices. Chris is in the process of stripping off the multiple layers of paint, and then he'll sand it and cut it down to size. I'll post a progression of pics when he's done!
Anyone who has been to our house knows that though we have lots of doorways, we have very few doors. And the few doors that we do have are accordian style and not very sound- or light-proof. (My mom's house has real doors...but I guess that's the difference between 1893 and 1906!)
So Chris and I took a trip to Urban Ore in Berkeley this weekend to scope out their selection and hopefully find something that would work in the door frame of the nursery. After arriving too late on Saturday to complete our search, we returned on Sunday. We found a door, found the lock, the plates, the knob, paid for it and got it out to the car...when Chris discovered a big crack in the door that we hadn't seen inside. Blah.
So back inside we went, and we were fortunately able to exchange it for one of our second choices. Chris is in the process of stripping off the multiple layers of paint, and then he'll sand it and cut it down to size. I'll post a progression of pics when he's done!
August 31, 2009
36 weeks
36w0d
I finally made it to the chiropractor this week. Heaven! Well, for about a day, anyway. But though my lower back isn't 100%, it does feel better.
It's been pretty warm lately, and that makes me miss the A/C in the office. I feel like all I do is sweat lately! I have the fan going pretty much every night as I [try to] sleep. It's amusing to me when I get up in the middle of the night I see that Chris has all the covers on him and I'm still there without even the top sheet. Usually I'm the one who is cold!
Cookie now weighs about 6 pounds and is about the size of a crenshaw melon. Here's a pic from babycenter.com for those of you who also did not know what a crenshaw melon looked like!
I finally made it to the chiropractor this week. Heaven! Well, for about a day, anyway. But though my lower back isn't 100%, it does feel better.
It's been pretty warm lately, and that makes me miss the A/C in the office. I feel like all I do is sweat lately! I have the fan going pretty much every night as I [try to] sleep. It's amusing to me when I get up in the middle of the night I see that Chris has all the covers on him and I'm still there without even the top sheet. Usually I'm the one who is cold!
Cookie now weighs about 6 pounds and is about the size of a crenshaw melon. Here's a pic from babycenter.com for those of you who also did not know what a crenshaw melon looked like!
August 30, 2009
No more rings
35w6d
Well, no more wedding rings, anyway. While I don't think I appear swollen, I guess I am. And this heat isn't helping! :oP
So, with my wedding rings safely tucked away, another of my rings (that is normally too large to fit on my left ring finger) has taken center stage.
It just feels too weird not to wear any ring at all. You know?
Well, no more wedding rings, anyway. While I don't think I appear swollen, I guess I am. And this heat isn't helping! :oP
So, with my wedding rings safely tucked away, another of my rings (that is normally too large to fit on my left ring finger) has taken center stage.
It just feels too weird not to wear any ring at all. You know?
August 29, 2009
Showered with love...again!
35w5d
Some of my lovely friends threw me a baby shower today. I feel so lucky and blessed to have such wonderful people in my life! It was a H-O-T day, but fortunately there was a bit of a breeze in the host's backyard. (However, being 8 months pregnant (where I'm already running hot to begin with) + 95 degree weather = me as a sweaty mess. :oP )
Instead of playing games, everyone decorated a onesie for Cookie using iron-on transfers and fabric pens. I love how they turned out!
(I left this photo clickable, so you can enlarge it to see more detail if you'd like. Oh, and you can't really go to that website to vote for a name, fyi. :) )
There was much discussion of Cookie's actual name, but everyone who was hoping that I'd let it slip ended up leaving just as frustrated as when they arrived. Sorry guys, not until the little man is actually here!
He got clothes...
and books...
and a dragon! Oh my!
Thank you guys for EVERYthing. Your generosity is much appreciated!!!
Some of my lovely friends threw me a baby shower today. I feel so lucky and blessed to have such wonderful people in my life! It was a H-O-T day, but fortunately there was a bit of a breeze in the host's backyard. (However, being 8 months pregnant (where I'm already running hot to begin with) + 95 degree weather = me as a sweaty mess. :oP )
Instead of playing games, everyone decorated a onesie for Cookie using iron-on transfers and fabric pens. I love how they turned out!
(I left this photo clickable, so you can enlarge it to see more detail if you'd like. Oh, and you can't really go to that website to vote for a name, fyi. :) )There was much discussion of Cookie's actual name, but everyone who was hoping that I'd let it slip ended up leaving just as frustrated as when they arrived. Sorry guys, not until the little man is actually here!
He got clothes...
and books...
and a dragon! Oh my!
Thank you guys for EVERYthing. Your generosity is much appreciated!!!
August 24, 2009
35 weeks
35w0d
Happy 35/35 to me! Today marks the milestone where I have reached 35 weeks with just 35 days left to go.
I'm overdue for an appointment with the chiropractor...I really need to call! I'll do that today. Otherwise, I'm still doing well. Some of Cookie's movements are bordering on painful, but most are still cute. Especially the hiccups!
Working at home is going well too. I'm still juggling 3 projects, so I'm busy, busy. But I do feel like I'm getting a lot accomplished. Now if that feeling of accomplishment would just transfer over to being ready for this little man, I'd be all set!
Happy 35/35 to me! Today marks the milestone where I have reached 35 weeks with just 35 days left to go.
I'm overdue for an appointment with the chiropractor...I really need to call! I'll do that today. Otherwise, I'm still doing well. Some of Cookie's movements are bordering on painful, but most are still cute. Especially the hiccups!Working at home is going well too. I'm still juggling 3 projects, so I'm busy, busy. But I do feel like I'm getting a lot accomplished. Now if that feeling of accomplishment would just transfer over to being ready for this little man, I'd be all set!
August 17, 2009
Home work
34w0d
Home work, work at home, whatever you want to call it, that's what I'm doing! I'm going to be working from home for the next 4 weeks. Yay!
Friday was my last official day in the office, and in the afternoon my coworkers surprised me with a lovely little baby shower outside in the community garden. There was cake, cookies, fruit, milk, and a VERY generous gift card waiting for me. I'm so lucky to work with such giving, caring people!
I'm sure I'll have to pop by the office a few times in the coming weeks to pick up and drop off materials, but for the most part I will be parked in the comfort of my living room. Cats make good conversationalists, right? ;)
Home work, work at home, whatever you want to call it, that's what I'm doing! I'm going to be working from home for the next 4 weeks. Yay!
Friday was my last official day in the office, and in the afternoon my coworkers surprised me with a lovely little baby shower outside in the community garden. There was cake, cookies, fruit, milk, and a VERY generous gift card waiting for me. I'm so lucky to work with such giving, caring people!
I'm sure I'll have to pop by the office a few times in the coming weeks to pick up and drop off materials, but for the most part I will be parked in the comfort of my living room. Cats make good conversationalists, right? ;)
34 weeks
34w0d
I'm hoping this shirt will continue to stretch with me for the next several weeks!
Cookie is now pushing 5 pounds (as well as pushing on me...a LOT), and is about 18 inches long. I'm still doing well, though I have been a slacker about working out lately. Between being more tired and my lower back hurting more often, it just hasn't been appealing. But I hope to go to the chiropractor again soon, and get myself feeling better!
I'm hoping this shirt will continue to stretch with me for the next several weeks!
Cookie is now pushing 5 pounds (as well as pushing on me...a LOT), and is about 18 inches long. I'm still doing well, though I have been a slacker about working out lately. Between being more tired and my lower back hurting more often, it just hasn't been appealing. But I hope to go to the chiropractor again soon, and get myself feeling better!
August 10, 2009
33 weeks
33w0d
Getting rounder by the day...
This week Cookie should weigh in at a little over 4 pounds, and be about 17 inches long. Chris and I have the first class in the childbirth series this week, and we'll be attending classes for the next several weeks as well.
We continue to prep the house and the nursery; we'll be having an electrician take a look at the wiring in the room, as it appears to still be the "old" kind, and we're on the hunt for a door. Urban Ore, here we come!
Getting rounder by the day...
This week Cookie should weigh in at a little over 4 pounds, and be about 17 inches long. Chris and I have the first class in the childbirth series this week, and we'll be attending classes for the next several weeks as well.
We continue to prep the house and the nursery; we'll be having an electrician take a look at the wiring in the room, as it appears to still be the "old" kind, and we're on the hunt for a door. Urban Ore, here we come!
August 8, 2009
Maternity pictures
32w5d
Today Chris and I ventured out to Tilden Park in Berkeley to meet with a photographer and have some maternity pictures taken. Now, as many of you know, I'm not always very comfortable in front of a camera, but I felt that I wanted to document this time in my life with photos other than the weekly shots that Chris has been taking (and in which my head is deliberately cut off).
It was a very nice day, and hopefully some very nice shots were captured. I plan to share a few when I hear back from the photographer, so stay tuned!
Today Chris and I ventured out to Tilden Park in Berkeley to meet with a photographer and have some maternity pictures taken. Now, as many of you know, I'm not always very comfortable in front of a camera, but I felt that I wanted to document this time in my life with photos other than the weekly shots that Chris has been taking (and in which my head is deliberately cut off).
It was a very nice day, and hopefully some very nice shots were captured. I plan to share a few when I hear back from the photographer, so stay tuned!
August 3, 2009
32 weeks
32w0d
Several people have told me lately that I look "rounder". What do you think? ;)
Overall, I'm still feeling well. I'm still less energetic than I was during the 2nd trimester, but that just means I have to sit down more frequently (and not that I'm falling asleep on the couch at 7pm like I was during the 1st trimester!).
I'm still battling the awful nighttime leg cramps (the last one left me sore and limping for 2 days after it occurred...not fun). And sleeping is more of a challenge these days. But really, I don't have much to complain about. Two more months to go!
Several people have told me lately that I look "rounder". What do you think? ;)
Overall, I'm still feeling well. I'm still less energetic than I was during the 2nd trimester, but that just means I have to sit down more frequently (and not that I'm falling asleep on the couch at 7pm like I was during the 1st trimester!).
I'm still battling the awful nighttime leg cramps (the last one left me sore and limping for 2 days after it occurred...not fun). And sleeping is more of a challenge these days. But really, I don't have much to complain about. Two more months to go!
August 1, 2009
Showered with love
31w5d
Chris's family hosted a baby shower for me today. It was really, really lovely; thank you everyone!
Good company, yummy food, games that didn't involve guessing my circumference (big plus!), sweet cake, and LOTS of presents. This little man is spoiled already!
Chris's family hosted a baby shower for me today. It was really, really lovely; thank you everyone!
Good company, yummy food, games that didn't involve guessing my circumference (big plus!), sweet cake, and LOTS of presents. This little man is spoiled already!
July 28, 2009
It moved, it moved!
31w1d
No, not Cookie. My placenta! We just finished our appointment at the perinatologists' office, where we were given the best possible news.
Back in May when I had my "big" ultrasound, I was told that I had partial placenta previa. The good news is that today I was given the all clear; the tip of the placenta that was previously covering my cervix has now moved at least 3 centimeters away. Yippee!
And just because I know you want to see 'em, here are a few pics.
Look at those cheeks! :)
Cookie actually weighs 3 pounds 10 ounces now, and is still measuring right on track. Based on certain measurements (femur length, abdominal circumference, etc.) they would say his gestational age is 31 weeks 2 days. Pretty dang close if you ask me!
No, not Cookie. My placenta! We just finished our appointment at the perinatologists' office, where we were given the best possible news.
Back in May when I had my "big" ultrasound, I was told that I had partial placenta previa. The good news is that today I was given the all clear; the tip of the placenta that was previously covering my cervix has now moved at least 3 centimeters away. Yippee!
And just because I know you want to see 'em, here are a few pics.
Look at those cheeks! :)
Cookie actually weighs 3 pounds 10 ounces now, and is still measuring right on track. Based on certain measurements (femur length, abdominal circumference, etc.) they would say his gestational age is 31 weeks 2 days. Pretty dang close if you ask me!
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