Two Turkeys In The Oven

We met with the second pediatrician tonight and I really liked him a lot. We have gotten several recommendations from friends for Seaside Pediatrics and I can see why.  Dr. Horger has a small practice and only accepts a maximum of 10-12 new patients each month.  There were 8 soon-to-be parents/couples there tonight for the open house newborn class that the practice hosts.  He comes to the hospital and visits/exams all his new patients and there are a couple other practices that he works with to be on-call for weekends.  There is always an office that we can go to on a Saturday or Sunday.  Also, there is a separate newborn waiting room, well child and sick child areas.  He seems to be very involved with patient communication for after-hours calls and the rest of the staff seemed great too.  I got a really good vibe from the whole experience.

The first part of the Babies R Us order arrived today!  We got the Boppy pillow, closet organizers, Sleep Sheep, baby blankets, changing pad cover, play yard sheet, and bibs.  I will get the last bit of new clothes and bedding washed and organize her closet this weekend.

Yesterday Will got a ton of projects done around the house. I love it when he has a day off. That mug is so productive! I go into work a little later today so on my to do list is to finish organizing Hudson's closet and changing table (I had to make another trip to Target to get more canvas storage bins). I also am going to put together Hudson's bouncy seat, and get stuff organized and straight on the new shelves Will built in the linen closet. The nursery is almost complete. I need to get some prints blown up and have them matted, framed, and hung. Yesterday I felt pretty good but today I feel super tired. I had weird dreams last night and got up to pee the most I think I have since I've been PG so I didn't sleep very well. I just feel super tired and depleted. I can't wait for Hudson to be here. I can't wait to meet him. When I think about it - it gives me chills. And of course for very selfish reasons I can't wait to have my body back!! Last night I had the worst backache ever and my feet, ankles, and legs are so swollen, sore, and tender. Last night when we finally got in the bed I literally felt like every bone in my body hurt but it felt so good to stretch out. Tylenol is for the birds so I didn't even mess with it. A little rubdown and my body pillow seemed to bring some relief.

Today marks 35 weeks! I feel like I wake up and my belly is bigger every day. All those weeks where I wasn't showing are definitely catching up now!

I haven't posted any belly pics lately, so here are a few...

*not sure why Blogger is not posting pictures correctly...sorry!
  

32 weeks at Wrightsville Beach



34 weeks - me and my little Gamecock



35 weeks and big as a pumpkin!



I have not been very committed to blogging the past week. This week was super busy and I've been super tired. However it was a good productive week and we really got a lot accomplished. I had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday and we had our last ultrasound. Hud was doing great and weighing in at 7 pounds 10 ounces. He is such a big baby and has a big head like his Daddy - 33 cm in circumference!! With at the time of the appointment about 4 weeks to go the doctor guesstimated he would gain 2 more pounds by his due date. She talked about scheduling an elective c section - which I am totally against unless there is a true medical need for it. She also talked about inducing me a week before his due date. I would rather Hudson come on his own and let nature run it's course. Induction usually does not work unless your body has started preparing for the delivery by the softening, thinning, and dilation of the cervix - then the meds to induce you can be helpful. I have heard it can make contractions worse since it's jump starting your system with synthetic drugs to help your body dilate but we'll see what Hudson decides to do in the next few weeks. As of Tuesday my cervix had not started thinning or dilating. However I also didn't stop taking the precardia (the meds I've been on to prevent pre term labor) until Friday so that may make a big difference. I've still been doing the hypnobirthing cd and plan on doing that and then getting an epidural. Putting together the pack and play proved to be a huge pain but we got it set up, got the sheets,and found a spot for it in our bedroom. We are going to keep the baby in the room with us during the first month or so for easier late night feedings, ect. At the beginning I was just going to put Hud in his crib from the get go - but for us that makes no sense - plus I think the baby will like the companionship of his mommy and daddy while adjusting to his new little world. My baby shower yesterday was wonderful. Last night and today I spent most of my time washing all stuff baby, organizing Hudson's closet, and re cleaning his room. Will and I got the monitors figured out and ready to go. The infant care class was really helpful - I"m so glad that we took the time to take all these great classes the hospitals offer. Back to work tomorrow. Doctor's appointment on Thursday. I am really contemplating if I should work right up until I go into labor or if I should give myself a week or so before. I'm taking 7 weeks of maternity leave starting the delivery date. FMLA gives you 12 weeks but short term disability only pays for the required medical time off. Going to talk to my doctor about that when I go in this week. On another note my body is busted ... I am so big and achy and tired by the end of the day! I am swollen everywhere I could possibly be swollen, I have cellulite, and spider veins on my thighs. Pregnancy is not for the vain or the faint at heart!

My co-workers are guessing when Banks will actually arrive...here's what we have so far. Feel free to comment and give your best estimate!

Due Date: Sunday, November 21st

My guess is November 16th, but I think that November 11th would be really cool because she would turn 1 on 11/11/11

"Aunt" Kat is going with November 10th


My coworkers think...
Andy - 11/7
Tray - 11/17
Liz - 11/20
Thomas - 11/21 around 4pm
Amanda - 11/23
Danny - 11/24
Jeremiah - 11/30

Tonight was my breastfeeding class.  It was good info and although I still feel a little anxious about it, I definitely feel more prepared.  We went over different nursing techniques and how to use the pump.  The Breastfeeding Center is great and the staff has been so helpful already.  If I do have a problem I feel comfortable knowing that there is a support center in town.  I looked at some nursing bras, but my size was out of stock, so I will get that in a couple weeks.

After a 3 hour work meeting, full day of work, and 3 hour class I am 100% exhausted.

As busy as we have been, it is really making the weeks fly by!  Only 6 more weeks to go!  The weekend was good because Brian was home.  He is trying to get a lot of travelling out of the way so that he won't have to travel closer to my due date 

We did some chillaxing on Saturday and watched USC beat Bama!!!  I'm so glad that we will have our Carolina Girl.  She already has several Gamecock outfits that I can't wait to see on her.  On Sunday, I felt ambitious so I planted pansies and mums and got the front porch ready for fall.  I definitely think I overdid it a little bit because I am paying the price with my lower back.  Oh well, Tylenol and Biofreeze to the rescue!

Tomorrow I get my flu shot.  I was happy to learn that by me getting the vaccine it will protect Banks for 6 months.  I also have my breastfeeding class tomorrow, so that should be interesting...

The breastfeeding class last week went really well and was very informative. I am still a little anxious about it - you hear so much stuff about babies that don't latch well and there are so many different positions it's like you have to get the baby just right. It also will be quite exhausting especially the first couple of weeks but I'm up for the challenge. I'm really glad I took the class. I most definitely feel more prepared. Today I went to Target and bought a nursing bra and these nursing cami's and some cute, comfy clothes to wear while at the hospital. I also went to Baby Depot today to scope some stuff out and they are having some fantastic sales on all kinds of stuff - including the Medela breast pump and the pack and play I want. I'll wait until after my shower on Saturday and hit 'em up style! I thought that I had Hudson's going home outfit all situated but when I went to pick it up from the monogramming place - my baby's monogram looked awful - so tomorrow I'll take some new stuff up to a different place on the West side. I hate when people don't follow directions or take pride in what they do. Tomorrow I also have a doctor appointment. They will do a growth ultra sound, blood work to check for Beta Strep, and then check to see if my iron levels have come up any since I started taking the iron supplement a few weeks ago. I expect that it will be a pretty long appointment. After this visit I will start seeing my doctor every week. Wednesday marks 4 weeks until Hudson's due date!! I have a meeting in Columbia for work on Wednesday - and even though a month prior to the due date you really aren't suppose to travel I didn't think an hour and some change would be that big of a deal. Thursday night of this week Will and I have an Infant Care class at the hospital that I think will be really helpful. Will got a free pass from the breastfeeding class however if I had known how much support you need for breastfeeding I would have registered him for it as well. Between working, trying to get the house and everything ready for Hudson, on top of normal everyday stuff Will and I are both exhausted. I am seriously contemplating taking off from work a week or so before the due date - with everything else wearing me out I'm worried if I wait until the bitter end I won't even have the energy to push!!:) Swollen feet and ankles, and this god awful backache aren't helping my energy levels or my mood!!

Today I met the first of 2 pediatricians that we are checking out.  I liked her, but I am not making a decision until we meet the other doc on October 28th.  Dr Austria was really nice and there are a lot of things I like about her practice and her approach to patients.  I also had my infant care class tonight.  It was really good to be around other first time parents and realize that I am not the only one questions.  I've been getting paperwork in order too - copies of license and insurance card, admission form for the hospital, and healthcare power of attorney.  I am exhausted and so ready for the weekend.  I just want to relax!

Today we are exactly 35 weeks. The final week in the 8th month. The third trimester of pregnancy is most definitly the toughest. I am not sure how my body is going to make it 5 more weeks. I am experiencing back pain for one of the first times ever and it is God awful! I know most of my ailments are associated with the extra weight I'm lugging around yet with the baby gaining a half a pound a week the mama is gaining significantly more. I am excited about having a day off tomorrow. One of my awesome neighbors hooked me up with some fall/winter maternity clothes last night so I'm going to take some time to put up summer stuff and get my closet straight. I am still reading the hypno birthing book and doing the meditation cd and excersices a few times a week. I think it will really help but I'm wondering to what extent - especially when at the end of the day I'm whining about lower back pain, achy joints and sore feetsies - compared to labor I'm sure all of that is a walk in the park. At least labor will be a bit more short lived. Latley I have had such a thing for yogurt, fruit cups, and veggie subs however I have also had a thing for most anything that is sweet. I usually don't have a sweet tooth but I have chomped down on oreo's and milk this week like it's nobody's business and baked two apple pies last night. I did give one away- thanks! but came to bed with a big slice of pie topped with ice cream. Breastfeeding class tomorrow night - I hope to come out feeling prepared. I had anxiety dreams last night about not being able to get Hud in his car seat, not being able to breastfeed him, and basically not being able to do any of the things a Mom should be able to do. It was awful and I woke up in a bad mood. Off to bed.

I had a check up at the doctor today and all is good!  Banks's HR was at 138, my iron level and BP were fine, and she is measuring right on track for my November 21st due date.  I had to wait an hour for a 5 minute appointment which just made me feel tired for the rest of the afternoon.  While I was waiting, Banks was a total wiggle worm!  She is getting so big now that she won't be able to flip and float as much, so I guess the real kicking will begin. 

The pack n' play and diaper bag arrived today, so that was a nice surprise when I got home.  We have a few more things to get, but I am waiting for my discount coupons for my registry completion.  Last weekend, I set up her crib bedding, washed all of her clothes and got them hung up in the closet.  I wish that washing our laundry was as much fun as washing hers.  I organized everything by size and we got a few more 0-3m clothes to have her covered for the first month or so.  It is all so darn cute, but the Christmas outfits we got for her are just adorable!  I can't wait to dress her up - I will be picture crazy!

I am freaking out a bit because I still have so much to do before Hud's arrival. I have been making lists like crazy to help myself get organized and know what needs to be done and what I need however sometimes time and money are not my friends!! I had a really nice weekend off. On Friday night my sister in law came over and we got the nursery decorated. Really there are only a few final touches that need to be done. It looks great. Pics to come when I get it all completed. I had a family reunion on Saturday so it was nice visiting and seeing everyone and then I had a co baby shower dinner on Sunday night with my work peeps and another friend of mine that is having a January baby. Will worked super hard getting the basement insulated to keep Hud and Mommy warm on Saturday and pressure washed the house and the porch, sidewalk, and driveway. It looks awesome. Since the front of the house looked so good I was inspired to get some mums and re paint my terra cotta pots. It was nice spending time outside in the cooler fall like weather- and hanging with Will is always a good time;) I started having some cramping while I was at work yesterday afternoon and called the nurse at my ob office who instructed me to go home lay on my left side, drink plenty of water, and time the pain. It was not intense cramping but you know you are not supposed to have cramping in pregnancy until the bitter end. So after being at work for an hour drinking a ton of water and having my feet propped up and still cramping I decided to go home. I took a warm bath, kept drinking fluids, curled up on my right side, talked to people that knew what was going on and had been in labor before, and read my pregnancy books. The cramping finally subsided late last night there was never any real rhyme or reason to the cramping so I stopped timing after a few. I think I was just kind of scared since I don't really know what to expect. Since I had that cervical surgery years ago and had the cramping around 21 weeks and was put on the meds to prevent pre term labor - all those factors didn't help my fears. So due to all that my doctor wanted me to come in today. Everything looked good and was normal. Hudson is starting to drop which is leading to the pressure in my pelvic area and some of the cramping and lower back pain I'm experiencing. Sunday night and yesterday he was moving around like crazy it almost felt like he was burrowing down. In one of my pregnancy books it gives you the signs of pre labor, false labor, and real labor - very helpful info - especially if it's your first rodeo. All of my signs fell under the pre labor - which is just your body prepping for the real deal. The baby usually drops about 2 to 4 weeks before delivery and the pre labor can start a month or more before delivery. I still have my appointment for next week where they will do the last ultrasound for growth. I'm anxious to see how big he is. Oh, toxemia urine tests came back negative as well. Tomorrow marks 35 weeks!!

I am sorry for not blogging for 10 days!  There has been so much going on...baby shower, record breaking rainfall, childbirth classes, my work, Brian travelling like crazy, shopping for Banks and getting things at the house organized...and the list goes on! So, lots to catch up on this week for the blog!

Also, catching up are pregnancy ailments!  I have had a pretty smooth ride through out my pregnancy, but now I am suffering from some of the regular complaints.  Plus, it seems to take me longer to get things done, including getting ready for work in the morning.  I am so used to just go-go-go at top speed and that isn't happening now.  Here is a list of what has been slowing me down...

Heartburn - Its not terrible, but annoying!  I feel the burn every time I bend over to tie my shoes, pick up something, load laundry, wipe dog feet, etc. Banks is just pressing on my stomach and there's no where to go.  I can't eat salads right now because I just burp too much and of course, no spicy food, which is a bummer.  Tums are on my desk at work, in my purse, and on stand by at the house.

Back Pain - Not surprising, but definitely making sleeping less comfortable.  I have a body pillow and that is helping, but there's just no avoiding this one.  I am still doing my low back exercises and I try to watch my posture and avoid any chairs without back support.  This has become a deciding factor when we are deciding where to go watch football.  Mama needs to be comfy!

Feet - They hurt at the end of the day!  My heels are really hurting and I know its because of the extra weight.  If I am at the house on the hardwood floor I have to wear some kind of shoe/flip flop for cushion.  Brian has been travelling a lot during the week so my foot rubs have been minimal...it doesn't feel as good to rub your own feet and Wrigley is of no assistance...ha!

Swelling - Not too much, but a little.  I knew it was coming, so I am just going to keep chugging water (although it is hard because I am so tired of water.)  My rings are a slightly tighter than normal and there is some swelling in my feet...but I still have ankles and toes :)

Insomnia - I know...its nature's way to get me ready, but it still makes me tired with these 10 hours work days while I'm growing a human!  I wake up to pee at 3am, then start thinking about all the things I need to get done, then Banks is moving around, then I'm thirsty, then I'm on the couch watching Law & Order at 4am, take a nap from 5am-6:15am, then up to get ready for work.  I get home around 7pm, feed the dogs, and sit down.  I try not to doze off, but it happens...so I sleep for an hour and then can't get to sleep until midnight...arrrghhh!

We have a check up on Wednesday - I can't wait to hear that little heartbeat!  33 weeks along - just 7 more weeks until she is here!

Tuesday I had a doctor's appointment and found out that I had some protein in my urine (which is one of the signs of preclampsia aka toxemia) and that when they checked my hemoglobin that I had low levels of iron. Hudson was measuring right on target (per the tummy measurements) and his heartbeat was nice and strong. My doctor did some additional blood work while I was there and had me do a 24 hour urine specimen. So as I'm leaving the lab they give me this huge orange jug with my name and weight on it (to add insult to injury). I had to carry the jug around with me and track every bit of my urine for a full 24 hours. Will got me a little cooler set up so I could take it to work with me (I didn't want to gross my co workers out by keeping piss in the fridge). But carrying a little cooler in and out of work made me feel like I was toting around a liver. So yesterday proved to be interesting with all of that. It was so hard to maneuver the container to pee in especially as it got heavier and heavier as the day and evening progressed. Through the night (my prime peeing time) I had to bust out jug number 2 (which I requested since I knew I would need it). What a pain to have to remember to go to the fridge to get my container, find a way to pee in it without getting pee on the floor or anywhere else when you are half asleep, and then return the container to the fridge. It was ridiculous so needless to say I was grateful to return the gasoline looking jugs full of urine to the lab this morning. They were able to tell me that the blood work came back negative for preclampsia but they still have to send the urine specimen off just to be sure. I do however have an iron deficiency. I got the iron supplement filled on Tuesday and have been taking it for the past 2 days. Hopefully that will help. When my doctor asked me if I'd been feeling tired - I really didn't think anything about it since at 8 1/2 months pregnant who's not tired? Work has been super busy and there is so much to do with shipments coming in left and right for the holidays (yeah the holidays). I feel like I have such a handicap because with a 20 pound weight limit and roll racks that are too slender for me and my belly and boxes to pass through and the carpal tunnel and numbness in both of my hands making it hard for me to get a grip on things and leads to me constantly dropping things I really am not able to be nearly as productive as I need to be. So it's just been extra frustrating. I know it's just going to get harder and harder as the weeks progress. As long as Hud is healthy I will gladly pee in a jug every single day, and not have feeling in my hands, or have a big assortment of shoes to choose from.( But thank goodness it's all temporary:))I had a great time in Wilmington and at Jennifer's shower. Being in the car and traveling went pretty smoothly. I did take my pillows along which proved to be extra helpful. It was really good seeing the other turkey and hanging out. I love the beach. Can't wait to have both the babies playing in the sand!! I think I may finally actually get a chance to work in baby Hudson's room tomorrow night. Off this weekend - yay!!

I am so excited for this weekend!  Not only is it my baby shower weekend, but I have my best friend and her sister in town, my brother and the other turkey will be here tomorrow, and my mom will be here on Saturday.  So fun, friends, and family!  Lots of pics to come!

Now I really do believe that all those pregnancy rumors are true. I constantly have to pee, I think pickles are one of the best things ever, I sleep with a million pillows, I crave foods so badly that I can taste them and I'm not quite sure what I would do if I couldn't get my little paws on them, third trimester a foot rub trumps sex any night of the week, I am irrational and moody, I have eaten chocolate cake for 4 days straight, by the end of the day I feel nothing but big, a warm bath feels so good but hoisting myself in and out of the tub is quite a job - and now requires a little help, my toes are incredibly fat - I only have 2 pairs of shoes that fit, I am extra thirsty, I am a hot, sweaty mama almost all of the time, due to hormones and prenatals I am starting to notice that I have hair in places I didn't before (thank God I'm fair) and that the hair I already had grows way quicker -( I have been seeing my little vietnamese man every 2 weeks to get my brows waxed and that used to be an every 6 week deal), I need yet another bigger, more comfortable bra, I think sweatpants and Will's t shirts are the jam to hang out in, as soon as I get all my pillows positioned perfectly and finally find my sweet spot I have to get up and pee, apple juice and push up pops are my nightly treat, I could sleep for 12 hours if left to my own devices, suddenly everything in my house needs to be re organized and cleaned - I can't keep enough clorox on hand from all the frantic cleaning of the bathroom, kitchen, baseboards, and laundry I'm doing, I still think soap is fantastic and brush my teeth with it quite frequently - I don't even care that it dries out my lips like there's no tomorrow, I have totally gained 40 pounds, my ass does not look the same as it once did, I have too many baby magazines and books beside my bed to count, I can't stop making lists, when I finally get home at the end of the day I want a bit of sympathy, my lower back has started to ache, I wonder how I am going to last for 7 more weeks - the load is getting extra heavy, then I wonder how I'm going to get everything done in 7 weeks, I will never tire of feeling that precious baby move around in my tummy. Despite all the crazy ailments and that last night as my big whale of a body laid in the tub aching and tired I said to Will "I just want this baby out of me!" I think that growing a baby inside of you is the most amazing thing ever!!!

I had a check up at the doc today and everything is looking good.  My blood pressure is still great and we got to hear Banks's little heartbeat going at 140 BPM.  It looks like she is on track for normal growth and should be about 3 1/2 pounds now.  She has really been rolling around in my belly lately.  Since she is still small enough to cut flips I think she is taking full advantage of it.  I love it, but it feels weird and is really distracting when I'm trying to talk to someone at work.  I think she has been stretching out too.  It seems that her foot keeps making its way into my ribs!

I had a long day at work today. By the end of the day my newfound pregnancy weight, my aching back and swollen feet have gotten the best of me. I also cannot wait for it to cool down. I am so hot and sweaty all of the time. My belly button has finally decided to pop all the way out. It looks strange but for a while it was only partially "popped" - so I'm feeling this look a little more. I washed my first load of baby clothes and loved it!!! I also got the pre registration form for the hospital filled out and in the mail. Each day I feel like I'm getting a little closer to meeting my sweet baby -and I guess I am:)

I have been at a standstill with  my nesting because I have already cleaned out every cabinet and I have everything done in the nursery until after my baby shower - I promised Brian I wouldn't buy anything else until after the baby shower.  Good thing its next weekend, then its game on!  So, I found a different, productive way to feed my nesting...stockpiling.  Since Brian is back with a Johnson & Johnson company, we have access to their E-Store.  Basically we can get all the consumer OTC products for crazy cheap.  So Banks is all stocked up on baby wash, vapor bath, baby lotion, baby oil, masssage gel, sunscreen, baby wipes, diaper cream, baby powder and then some!  We did a huge trip to Sams (thanks Mom & Dad for renewing the membership) and now we are all good on most of our household items.  It felt good to know that I won't have to worry about getting a lot of our cleaning supplies and toiletries for months.  I am planning on doing one more run before Banks makes her debut to make sure we are all stocked up on detergent, TP, paper towels, etc.  Also, I got all of our groceries done for the next 2 weeks by hitting up Sams, Wal-mart and Harris Teeter.  Yes, a lot of stops to get everything we need, but since we have guests in town next weekend, I wanted it all done.  Ahhh, now I feel better prepared for the week ahead. 

On a side note...I counted my actual workdays that are left before my last day on November 5th and the total is only 36!  That alone makes facing Monday much easier.

The labor and delivery class went really well. I thought that by the end of the 5 1/2 hour class we would be totally freaked out. But I actually left feeling very prepared and informed. The videos were a bit much but necessary I suppose. I am definitely going to get the epidural but I want to use some other relaxation techniques prior to the epidural. The instructor said that you actually labor at home for several hours or more - until your contractions are about 5 minutes apart. She was saying that it's good to stay at home until you at least get to that point since it's a comfortable environment for you - and that the early contractions are very manageable. I am going to pull some things together to take with us that I think will help like lavender spray, a massage roller ball for my back, pillows from home, and Will's in the midst of making a relaxing mix for the ipod for labor day. We went to Barnes and Nobles today and I bought a book on Hypno Birthing. At the class yesterday they talked about this method and Spartanburg Regional actually offers a Hypno Birthing class. I really like the philosophies. So even though I don't want a natural birth I thought the method would be helpful with the first contractions at home and would allow me to hold out a little longer on the epidural. The book came with this relaxation cd that Will and I are going to start practicing at night. I have a breastfeeding class next week and then we have an Infant Care class the first part of October. I am starting to feel bigger and bigger by the day. I am amazed how much your body changes during pregnancy. I also have been having some numbness in my fingers and hands and lack of mobility. At my last doctor's visit I found out that I have carpal tunnel in both hands. The doctor said it's common in pregnant women. The only thing that you can really do is some hand exercises (which I've been doing) or get hand braces (which I'm holding out on). I do not want to be looking like Edward Scissorhands going to bed wearing the double hand braces. I feel like I have enough bed time gear with all the different types of pillows and vitamins and lotions I have around.

This week is the first time I've really felt the effects of my body producing relaxin - the hormone that loosens your joints and ligaments.  I am still working out, but only about 3-4 days a week.  I was doing some lunges yesterday and could really tell that my hips were more unstable than they had been a couple weeks ago.  Throw in the extra 29 pounds I'm carrying and my new center of gravity and I looked like I had never done lunges before.  Its affecting my lower back too...but that is to be expected at this point.  The body pillow is great at night and does seem to help my back some.  Biofreeze is must too!  I found this good prenatal pilates routine I am going to try to do a couple times a week.  I'm supposed to be doing my keigel exercises and according to the childbirth class the best way to do this is to stop the flow of urine 2-3 times every time I pee.  Well, at this point, when I gotta go, I gotta go...and it makes it really hard to stop the flow because the relief feels so good.  Oh well, gotta keep trying I guess!

Apologies on not blogging for a few days. I have been sick with whatever kind of cold or sinus thing that everyone else seems to have. The Emergen-C and Airborne did not do the trick!! When I called the OB office to verify what I could take and to make sure I didn't need to come in the nurse told me she had over a dozen calls about the same thing that day. Cold and sinus frenzy in the 'Burg! Yesterday I had to go to three different drugstores to find one of the three meds I can take for cold and sinus. And even at the third the selection was scarce. I snagged some Sudafed and Will was able to find some Robuttusin DM while he was in Greenville. I have been extra tired - not sure if it's late pregnancy, this cold, or if Hud is literally just sucking up all my nutrients and energy to get ready for his big debut. So for the past couple of days I've just been snugged up and taking it easy. Oh so the Kid's Consignment sale was awesome!! I couldn't beleive how packed out it was. I got a crib set, a coordinating diaper hamper and a super cute painting. I also scored a diaper wipe warmer, a bottle warmer, 14 super cute outfits for Hud, 2 pairs of stylin' baby shoes, and a maternity shirt for the Mommy. I wanted to get more but had to control myself! Our big Labor and Delivery class is in the morning. I hope it doesn't freak me and Will out! Afterwards they'll do a tour of the hospital. Oh we also found Hud's pediatrician last week. He has been moving so much latley. He is starting to move so hard you can see my belly jumping with all this activity. Earlier today when Will was watching my tummy he said "he can't wait to come out." I can't beleive that baby will be here in 7 1/2 weeks!!

We attended our first of three childbirth classes tonight.  It was from 7pm-9pm and wasn't the most exciting 2 hours of my life, but I did get a few good tidbits of info.  Most importantly, how to time contractions and when to actually go to the hospital!  I think the scariest part of the class was the to scale diagram of the cervix at different stages of dilation...yikes!  Some funny parts were in there too...like the stories about people that bring the mucus plug to the hospital in a ziploc and the fact that the staff will lie for you to keep family and friends out of your room.  The biggest relief was finding out that 98% of people DON'T poop on the delivery table!

Each night it feels like I am making more and more trips to the bathroom. Even during the day I feel like I could pee at any given time. But nights are most definitly worse. This is how it goes I drink my 3 liters of water before 5 or 6. I drink a little glass of juice or water or whatever with dinner and then only take a sip of water at bedtime to take my prenatal and other meds. While I am trying to fall asleep I literally get up every 20 minutes to pee then once I finally fall asleep I wake up about every 2 hours to pee. It's insane!! Pre pregnancy I have always been one of those people who could fall asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow but now it takes forever for me to doze off. Even when I am completley exhausted. I just can't get comfortable. The body pillow is still my jam and I truly don't know what I would do without it. But my pregnant "g" is hard to manuever into a comfy position and I have this new weird thing where my hands start going numb when I sleep. It has been taking me a few hours to get to sleep at night. But I am too physically tired to really do anything - plus by the time I get to bed my feet and ankles are so swollen and tight they MUST be elevated. And I am too mentally tired to read for too long. Most nights Will has a bit of insomnia too so he's good company. Last night however this mug was snoring so loud and pooting so bad that it was really interfering with my sleep. I think he should lay off the melatonin.

We had maternity pictures taken today!  I felt so beautiful!  We had them taken by Frank Pillari, who is usually photographing fitness models, so I was definitely a different subject for him.  It really was fun - we took some traditional couples pics, then I had a lot of solo and belly pics that were more artistic..even some underwater!  We haven't had professional pictures taken since our wedding and I am so excited to see all of them.  I know we caught some priceless moments today.  I should have them all in a couple days and will definitely post a few.

Its hard to believe how fast time has gone by.  There are only 10 weeks before Banks is here...if she stays in that long.  She is moving around so much now that I think she is trying out for U.S. gymnastics team.  I know that I will miss that once she is here.  It makes me smile every time I feel her move because I know that she is OK...my sweet baby girl.

I went to the Cape Fear Baby Expo today and there was a lot of cute stuff I had to resist. I did get Banks the cutest Christmas bloomers! Pics in December!

Today marks 31 weeks - the final week of the 7th month. I am really starting to feel the pressure of getting things done before Hud's big arrival. Our crib and vinyl appliques for the nursery came in yesterday and the changing table arrived today. Yesterday I got a 9 cube storage system and lime green and brown canvas storage bins from Target (along with a pair of adorable baby khaki pants and some shirts). Tomorrow I am going to work on getting the room nice and clean - ceiling fan, baseboards, windows, ect. Will is going to get the furniture assembled and then we'll put a stain on the floors and shampoo the rug. On Tuesday my sister in law Laken is going to come over and we'll get the vinyl appliques up and get things into place. I know I'll feel so much better once it starts to take shape.

Sorry I have been behind on blogging...I will be back on track this week!

We have been so busy and the days have been flying by.  I am 29 weeks and 2 days along...its so exciting to know that she will be here in about 11 weeks!  Today I had a check up at the doc and things are going great.  My blood pressure was 112/64, Banks's heart rate was 140, my hemoglobin was good and I am measuring right on track for growth.  Gold star for us girls!  Now I will be going for a check up every 2 weeks until the last month, then its every week.

Banks has really been a jumping bean the past couple days.  She has definitely been moving on a regular schedule, but has stepped it up a notch for sure.  Its all good though, I love feeling her move around.  That is, until she kicks me in the ribs!

We ordered the crib and the changing table and they should be here sometime this coming week. The vinyl wall appliques are shipping as well so once everything starts coming in we'll work on getting baby Hudson's nursery all set up. I am super pumped up about his nursery. It's going to be so smooth!

Brian has been traveling alot for work the past few weeks and has picked up a few things for Banks along the way.  San Francisco was the first trip and although he didn't have time to tour Alcatraz, he did get her these.

My doctor's appointment last Wednesday at Maternal Fetal Medicine went well - I think I forgot to blog about it - if not forgive me - I can't seem to keep anything straight these days. I was released from MFM since there have been no changes in my cervix so they no longer think I am at risk for pre term labor. I will continue to take the Precardia as a preventative measure up until 32 weeks. Hudson was weighing in at a healthy 3 1/2 pounds. I have an anterior placenta (which is completely normal but since it's facing the front it prevents me from feeling Hudson quite as much or quite as strong.) I started monitoring Hud's kicks and movements more closely. The rule of thumb is 10 movements every 2 hours - which despite the anterior placenta I feel.

Now we are in the homestretch with 12 weeks to go!  This means getting registered for birthing and breastfeeding classes and getting some other details taken care of.  We will have our birthing class September 13th, 20th and 27th from 7pm-9pm.  It should be interesting, we'll meet some other couples, and we'll have a tour of the hospital.  From what I hear, the birthing suites at our hospital are pimped out!  I will have a breastfeeding class one night in September - I have to register for that tomorrow.  It says it's for couples, but I am not going to subject Brian to that!  I filled out all my pre-registration paperwork for my hospital check-in and that will be mailed tomorrow.  I still have to create my birth plan, although I know it could be completely thrown out the window when Banks decides to make her debut.  Oh well, at least I can let my docs know what I prefer.  Also, I need to create a living will and appoint Brian to make medical decisions in the event that I can't do so for myself.  Yes, a morbid thought, but a reality.  I had a little bit of a breakdown today and got upset about the thought of something going wrong and Brian having to decide to save Banks or save me.  I really do feel that everything will be fine, so I only needed 2 tissues to get through the tears today.   

Brown Animal Silhouettes MegaPack of wall decals and wall stickers

I ordered the crib mattress and it arrived yesterday.  After reading reviews and researching a lot, I decided on a soy foam mattress - environmentally friendly and healthier for Banks.  I was really happy to find this hypoallergenic/eco-friendly mattress for $130 because so many of the the organic/chemical free mattresses are $300 or more!  This one is not completely chemical free, but it is free of phthalates, antimony, PBDE's and boric acid.  It has square corners and fits perfectly snug in the crib.  It's also really lightweight so it will be easy for me to change the sheets.  Now I am ready to get her bedding and put the whole room together!

My doctor's office called with my blood glucose results and I tested at 101, which is great.  Anything 139 and under is OK.  So, that is great news (not that I was extremely worried) and no further testing is needed.  Just one more thing checked off the list!

This past week was a busy one with work and Brian being out of town, which is why I haven't been posting. 

Friday I had my blood glucose test done (results should be here by Tuesday.)  I could only have cheese toast for breakfast, so I made sure I was there right at 8am to get the show on the road.  I checked in, they called me back shortly and gave me the jacked up Hawaiian Punch to chug.  I had to hang out in the waiting room for an hour and then have some blood drawn.  After about 40 minutes, I was wired!  I am not used to having that much sugar (especially on an empty stomach) so I felt like I had 3 Red Bulls.  Afterwards, I hit up Chic-Fil-A for some Chik'n Minis and felt a little more down to earth.  I anticipate that my results will be fine, but I definitely want to know for sure.

Also on Friday, Brian got home!!!  Finally, our house feels like a home again.  We have had a great weekend full of quality beach time, good food, and great friends.

Today, I am officially starting my 3rd trimester.  27 weeks down, 13 to go.  I can hardly believe it!

I am so tired today.  I just feel drained.  Banks must be having a growth spurt and zapping all my energy.  She definitely has energy today - she has been really active all afternoon!  Hopefully she will calm down before bedtime because I am turning in early tonight.

Right now I am craving anything that is crunchy and cold and refreshing. I can't get enough of cucumbers, sweet pickles, and pretty much any other crunchy raw vegetable. I am also still really feeling crushed ice and freezer pops. But what's weird is that more than the taste of these things I crave the crunch and the texture. I will literally come home and eat a whole cucumber as a snack and be satisfied.

Will finally got to feel Hudson kicking and moving. After dinner on Saturday night we were laying on the couch watching a movie and Hudson starting moving around like a wild man. Will's eyes got super big when he felt Hudson kicking. It was awesome. Hudson's moves are getting stronger by the day. I felt like I could even feel a little foot or something - but I can't be positive. I am anxiously awaiting the lab results from the glucose intolerance test. In the meantime I am still eating well but having some of the things I know I will have to cut out of my diet should I have gestational diabetes - i.e: bread, pasta, cereal and freezer pops. I had a little pregnancy breakdown last night and am still feeling surley this morning. I definitly need a visit from the attitude changer. And while I normally love an overcast rainy day today I need some sunshine.

I am officially 6 months along today.  I think that Banks is celebrating by doing somersaults in my belly!  According to BabyCenter, she is the size of a hothouse cucumber this week...which is funny because its one of my favorite things to have on a salad, but I can't have them right now because they make me burp too much.  Today, I have had heartburn on and off throughout the day.  I took a couple Tums and it went away, but its back so I guess I'll pop a couple more.  Will probably wait until after I have my Skinny Cow ice cream sandwich and see if that helps - I read that milk/ice cream helps with heartburn.  Any excuse, right?!

Another thing - my bellybutton is starting to change.  I wonder if its going to pop out or just flatten out?  I will keep you all posted on that.

The glucose intolerance test was miserable yesterday. It took 3 hours plus 4 rounds of blood work. By the time we left I was so incredibly faint and had a headache for having to fast for so long, having blood drawn, and having to keep down that nasty sugary hummingbird feeder liquid that they make you drink. I should find out the test results next week. I was so incredibly hungry when we finally left (as was Will since he fasted with me) we went to Wades afterward. I swear our waitress gave me a bad look I was tearing into those yeast rolls so hard. After Wades I took a much needed 3 hour nap and woke up refreshed. It felt so good. Today we went to Charlotte to check out the baby furniture at Ikea. It was a bust. Cute stuff for decor but furniture wise the quality didn't seem great and there wasn't much of a selection. However there are a few things I want to go back up and get once we get the furniture in place. We'll definitely go with Walmart.com for the nursery furniture. Time to watch and movie and snug up. I love a rainy night.

TJ Maxx is the hook up for books!  After all the good ones I got last week, I had to stop by today to check for some new ones.  I got 2 more Dr. Seuss books - "Green Eggs and Ham" and "Dr. Seuss's A B C."  Each night I look forward to reading to Banks.  The glider is all set up in her room, I turn on the lamp, relax and read a book to her.  Call me crazy, but I hope she likes it!

The belly molesting has begun!  I have been rubbed like Buddha.  There is one member at the gym that really has a thing for pregnant women and he was definitely a little too close for comfort...Banks kicked back!  I had to laugh.  I think I will start telling people that they can rub my belly if they can pat their head at the same time.  It really is weird how everyone feels like your personal space (your belly) is not so personal anymore.  No one goes around rubbing beer guts?!  Oh well, I will just have to be a smart mouth goddess and put the touchy-feely people in  their place...with a smile, of course!

Also, I officially have swollen ankles. These things are ridiculous - they don't even look like my ankles. I've started wearing my sneakers to work - which helps a little but by the time I get home you can literally press your finger into my ankle and leave an indention. It doesn't even look like I have a bone in my ankle. I am drinking tons of water like 70 ounces a day and trying to elevate at night but I am not seeing too much of a difference. I took AP on a walk and had on some capri yoga pants and looked down and there was literally fat pooling out around my kicks. It was awful and embarrassing. Big girl with a big dog. I have also been having these terrible muscle cramps early in the morning in my calves. I have never had such bad leg cramps in all my life.

Yesterday the glider for the nursery came in!  I picked it up at the store, put it together, and the nursery is a little more complete.  For the past 2 nights I have gone in there and read to Banks.  I love it!  Her room feels so cozy now.

Today I had a check up at the OB.  The AC was out in the office, so thankfully I didn't have to wait long, but trust me, it was long enough in the heat!  All was good with me - blood pressure was great and tummy measured at 25cm, so I am right on track.  You are supposed to be the same number of centimeters as you are weeks.  Banks is good too - heart rate at 143.  Next week I have to go have my blood glucose test for gestational diabetes.  I am dreading it because you have to drink this nasty sugary liquid, wait an hour, then have blood drawn.  Good times!

So I received a call from my ob office this morning and was told that my glucose screening test came back high. (What a way to wake up, right?) I have to go back on Friday for more extensive testing so that we can see if I have gestational diabetes. My glucose level was at 147 and ideally it should be at 140. This didn't seem so bad to me however the nurse said it was cause for additional testing. The test on Friday morning lasts 3 hours and for the 3 days prior you have to prep for the test(by adding sugar to your diet) and then of course fast from midnight Thursday until the appointment. I went online and read a bit about gestational diabetes and treatment. Everything that I read made me feel like a total fat ass. I think there is a bad stereotype that goes on with people with diabetes. One of my aunt's had gestational diabetes with one of her pregnancies and baby and Mom were absolutely fine. This is very comforting to me and btw Aunt Susie is totally hot and fit. The scariest thing that I read was that in some cases women with gestational diabetes develop Type 2 diabetes later in life. I am really going to try not to worry too much until I know for sure - but you know it's hard! I am also pissed about this - I feel like I have every ailment in the book! Will did remind me that I didn't have hemorrhoids. Always the eternal optimist. Pray for a good report on Friday and a healthy Hud an Stef:) A shout out to my Mom and Memaw for always making me feel better about things!!

I am 25 weeks along now and time is flying by!  Its hard to beleive that Banks will be here in just 15 weeks.  I am so excited to meet her!  She has been REALLY active this weekend - even kicked Brian in the head when he was trying to listen to her.  Her kicks are getting much stronger these days and will move your hand if its on the belly.  I think that she may have had the hiccups today, but I am not sure.  I am reading to her for about 10-15 minutes almost every night now (Brian thinks I am crazy.)  Some of these children's books are real tongue twisters so its good that I am practicing with them now!  We are starting "Where the Sidewalk Ends" tonight so that should last us for quite a few bedtime stories. 

Here are this week's belly pics...

No doubt about it, I am in a funk. 

It was a terribly long week...Brian leaves for California tomorrow for 2 weeks for training for his new job...Meiko is showing more signs of old age so I have to take her to the vet on Monday...and my hormones are getting the best of me because I just want to cry. 

So I am super pumped up to have tomorrow off - I love Sundays!! I was born on a Sunday afternoon and it is one of my favorite days. I really enjoyed going to my nephew's 4th Birthday Party today. That little mug is getting so big!! It's so amazing to me how many women in my life are pregnant right now. It's awesome to be able to have people to talk to and share with that are going through exactly what you are going through. With all the kids at the party today and then reading some books later on in the day it really made me want Hudson here - now!! I can't wait for him to be here with us but I know he still has lots of growing to do!! Okay so aside from my major ailments that I'm always on here complaining about here's what has changed and is plaguing me about being PG:

I was having a really frustrating day at work, so instead of working out like I usually do on my break, I decided to run a few errands to get out of the club for a little while.  One of my stops was TJ Maxx to check out the baby gear.  They have books there too and I scored several classics today that I can start reading to Banks now.  It was the highlight of my day to look through the books and think about how she will react the first time I read them to her...and how she will react the hundredth time I read them to her!

Here are the books I added to her little library today...

A cool animal book called "What Am I?" It has some amazing artwork and this spiral that goes through the book that is incorporated into the eyes of each animal.

3 Eric Carle board books

• The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• The Very Busy Spider
• Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See?

2 Dr. Seuss books

• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
• The Cat in the Hat

Yesterday marked 26 weeks. We had an appointment today. I had to drink this crunk juice and have bloodwork done to test for gestational diabetes (they normally test anywhere from 24-28 wks) I'd seen soon to be mommies gulping down this red potion before but today was my day. While we waited an hour to let the juice do it's thang in my system we met with the doc. No ultrasound since we just had one at Maternal Fetal Medicine but I did get to hear sweet little Hud' s heartbeat - which was rockin' and rollin' and sounding a little like a 311 song. All the sugar from the crunk potion had Hudson moving, moving, moving! So hungry lately!! Polished off the jar of bread and butter pickles this afternoon as well as some honey graham crackers and milk - great snack! My pica (thanks, Julie!) has gone beyond just soap (which by the way I still think is fantastic) and now involves anything that smells deliciously clean. I had to buy laundry detergent and dishwashing liquid the last time I was at the grocery store and being on that aisle made me crazy! It all smelled sooo good! Same goes for these delish candles we have at work called Cotton Flower- my god! I don't trust myself with them in my house! I even think Clorox smells divine (trust me I won't be gulping any of that down) but while doing laundry or cleaning I love the smell. The thing about craving something that you can't really have is that it's awfully frusterating and you never feel satiated. It's not like my cravings for crushed ice or Costco pizza where I can have it and my tummy is full, my thirst is quenched.

I am a watermelon monster!  Not just because I look like I'm smuggling a watermelon in my belly, but because I can't get enough of the cold, crisp, sweet taste!  Brian found these really good seedless ones for $2.50 each.  He brought one home, it got devoured, and I had to have more...2 more in fact (no, I did not eat them all at once.)  Also, for the past 2 days I have been constantly hungry.  Banks must be having a growth spurt!  OK, time for more watermelon now... 

I find myself drifting off, smiling to myself, thinking about all the things I am looking forward to doing with Banks.  Outside of simply having her here, seeing her smile, laugh, and giggle...I am so excited to take her places for the first time and to do things for the first time.

Just a few places to go...

• the beach and ocean
• the zoo
• a water park
• Build-A-Bear
• Disney
• pumpkin patch
• USC football game

And then just a few of the things to do...

• finger painting
• splashing in puddles
• catching a fish
• picking a flower
• petting Wrigley and Meiko
• making cookies

I am so plagued by indigestion and heartburn right now. It is getting so bad it's making me throw up several times a day. I just called the nurse at my ob office and I'm going to try Nexium to see if that will help my situation. Pre pregnancy I would maybe get a mild case of heartburn once or twice a year. But now I can't eat anything or drink anything without being attacked by it. Hopefully this will help ... I feel miserable! However, my digestive system has regulated. Always a good thing. Off to the grocery store before work ... Hudson likes to feast!

I seem to be outgrowing clothes everyday!  Not that they are really too small, but just don't look right.  Anyways, I finally went to Motherhood Maternity and got a few things - cute black cargo pants and yoga pants for work, 2 fitted tees, 2 plain tanks, and a blingy "Babylicious" tank that was just too cute (and on sale!)  Some things in there were a little scary looking and not my style, but I will definitely be back in September to get a dress for the shower, some cute jeans, and fall shirts.  To be honest, there was a lot of really cute things, but I am not trying to create a whole new wardrobe...just enough to get by for now.  I think the best part was that they had a faux belly that adds about 3 months!  Of course I had to try it on, but didn't have my camera...too funny!

I had a talk with Banks before the ultrasound and told her that Mama wanted some good pictures because we won't see her again until she is here.  Well, she didn't listen...must be all the fluid she's flipping around in!  All she wanted to do was look at the camera and turn her back to us.  She has a cute spine and butt!  Anyways, I didn't get my cute profile shot but she got a great health report, so I will take that any day.  Her heart rate was 157, she is at 1 lb 10 oz, and in the 73rd percentile for growth (not too little, not too big...so perfect already!)  This was our cardiac ultrasound and all that looked great - her little ticker is humming along just fine.  Here is the only pic we got today...the proof that she is still a girl!

I am 25 weeks along and still getting sick. Whoever said that "morning sickness" only lasted the first trimester was a liar. I think now instead of my sickness being caused by pregnancy hormones it's now being caused by my acid refulx. Today was exhausting. Getting sick takes so much out of me - especially when it's already so hot outside. It's hard enough to stay hydrated. Went and swam laps despite my ill feeling and got sick again once I got home. Grilled cheese and watermelon then taking it to the bed.

We have our ultrasound tomorrow!!!  I can't wait to see Banks move the way I have been feeling her move.  She is definitely on a daily routine  now...moving around 9:30am-10am, 4pm-5:30pm, and 10pm-11pm.  If all is good this will be our last ultrasound, which means we won't see her again until she is here.  We could pay for the 3D ultrasound, but they kind of creep me out.

The appointment at Maternal Fetal Medicine went well yesterday. My cervical length is right on target, no signs of funneling or any other signs of pre term labor. We also got to see Hudson. He is weighing in at 2 pounds and 3 ounces and was as adorable as ever.

This has been a hectic and long week already!  I think it seems extra long because I am SO ready for our ultrasound on Friday! 

On the upside, the new frozen yogurt bar opened right down the street from the gym - The Fuzzy Peach.  It is delish!  Pick your yogurt, pick your toppings and devour!  I had fresh peach swirled with tart yogurt and topped it with granola, captain crunch cereal, japanese marshmallows and fresh strawberries.  This place could be a preggers dream come true!  I went yesterday and I will have to go back tomorrow...maybe take a pic too!

12 hour Mondays make Mama tired!  Wow, today was a doozie, but its all done now.  I am beat.

Our carpets look great after being steam cleaned.  We will definitely be calling John back after Banks and Wrigley inflict their next round of damage.

Also, the glider I want is back in stock so I ordered that tonight.  It will be here between August 6-12th...gotta love free site-to-store shipping with Wally World!  I am ready to start gliding and reading to Banks.

Today before work I went to the pool and swam laps and floated around. It felt so good and Hudson absolutely loved it. As soon as I stopped swimming laps and just started relaxing in the water that baby started hoopin around, flipping, and kicking. I read in one of the books that I got Will that the baby really enjoys the water. Obviously it's true. I am going to start swimming laps after work. I think it will be a nice break from the hot weather and it will be relaxing and good exercise for me. I even got a little bit of much needed sun today. Hudson's moves are getting bigger and stronger. Last night I swear I thought Will would be able to feel them from the outside. But when I would put his hand on my tummy where the action had been going on - Hudson would stop. Anyway I can't wait for Will to be able to feel the baby move. For me it makes everything even more of a reality and I feel like through his little kicks and squirms I am beginning to sense Hud's personality. The books and the ob say 28 weeks is when the baby can be felt from the outside - sometimes sooner. So a little over 3 weeks and Will and all Hud's other fans get to experience his little moves.

This was a very productive weekend...mainly the yard sale.  We got up at 5am and set up our driveway boutique for success.  I said "no early birds" in the ad, and it worked - the first shopper was there at 7am sharp.  There are some pros out there ready to haggle over 50 cents.  Its aggravating, but entertaining at the same time.  When we shut down shop at Noon we had made $505.55!  A real success in my book!

We hit the beach for a little while Saturday afternoon.  While we were there, we got to SEE Banks kick for the first time.  It was a little crazy to see her make my stomach move.  She has definitely gained strength this week and I am eager for Friday to get here so we can have our ultrasound and see how much she has grown.

Just a couple of random things...
We are having the carpets cleaned tomorrow so everything will be nice and clean for our little girl to move around on- although we only have carpet in the bedrooms. I had to order a book for Brian to have for work, so I got a great book to read to Banks now that she can start learning the sound of my voice!

"Oh, Baby, the Places You'll Go!: A Book to Be Read in Utero"

I went to Motherhood Maternity to exchange some maternity clothes a few days ago. I had never been in there and it was awesome! They have such cute clothes it makes me wish I'd be pregnant for longer (and it made me wish I had the extra duckets to buy to my heart's content) They also had a great sale section as well. I'll for sure bust back there to pick up some jeans and some other stuff as I need it along the way. They had just started getting in some pieces for fall and had some adorable stuff. I got a really cute and comfy pair of pajama bottoms that I swear I've worn for the last three nights.

Banks is getting stronger everyday.  This week I can really feel her move, flip, kick, whatever she's doing in there.  Each day I think that Brian is going to be able to feel it...I push his hand into my stomach...and nothing.  Well, she's moving, but he can't feel it from the outside.  Yesterday she was really active and when I sat down last night I started feeling some of her strongest kicks yet!  Finally, I think Brian might feel it.  At first she stopped, so of course its me crying wolf again...and then finally she busted out the moves!  It was hilarious to see Brian's face!  "There's an alien in there!"  I can't wait to tell her how terrified her Dad looked when he first felt her kick.  Really, he was just suprised at how strong it was.  We will get to see her in action next Friday when we go for our ultrasound - I can't wait! 

We are having a HUGE yard sale this weekend!  We have been de-cluttering the house and we have a garage full of stuff to sell.  Tonight, we got things organized and we will price everything tomorrow.  Saturday will be interesting because I know the crazy yard sale people will be on the prowl.  We will definitely have to get some incognito photos!  I listed our sale on Craigs List tonight and put 7am-noon (no early birds please) but we'll see who starts stalking us at 5am!  Also, we are having a yard sale challenge with my friend Kat...who will make more money?!  I think the Nix house is some tough competition.  Show mama the money!!!

What I'm feelin lately:

All the girls are growing - Banks and my boobs.  I finally broke down and got a new bra!  It is great!  I went to a custom bra shop and got fitted since I have no idea what size I am now (for the record she put me in a 38C with a little room to grow.)  The girl at the shop, Melissa, was 21 weeks pregnant so it was nice having her understand what "the girls" are going through.  My clothes fit better and I am definitely more comfortable.  I did look at maternity bras while I was there and I am happy to see that there are some cute ones out there - the style was called Hot Mama...ha!  I will definitely be going back to The Bra Shoppe to keep "the girls" happy!

My irritability seems to have returned after being on hiatus for a few days. Once again Apollo is the primary source of my frustration and anxiety. He is constantly licking himself and gnawing at himself and it is driving me bananas. He does it all night long while I'm trying to sleep - it doesn't seem to bother Will or keep him from sleeping but when I try to get Apollo to quit that wakes him up. Anyway this dog will not stop licking himself - even when you ask him to stop he will for a minute then starts it right back up. From dusk till dawn - it's going to put me in a straight jacket. This morning Will and I had an argument about the whole situation. I left for work angry and frustrated. I contemplated getting a short term lease on an apartment but after talking to the girls at work I came up with a better idea. Apparently the pet stores make some sort of solution that deters dogs from licking themselves and it soothes their "hot spots". So I am going to check that out and if that doesn't solve the problem I am going to get one of those cones. I don't think Will is feeling the cone idea but it's for my sanity.

This weekend we visited our families in SC.  We relaxed by the pool, went to dinner for my birthday, and set up a webcam for my Dad so he can see Banks more when she gets here. I also got a few pieces of my baby clothes for Banks - a hat, booties, nightgown and romper.  And we got a pink USC Gamemcocks hat...SO CUTE! 

Today I am 5 months pregnant and the baby is the size of a spaghetti squash.  It is hard to believe that 5 months have already gone by.  I definitely think that I am feeling Banks move now.  Its usually when I sit down or after I eat.  However, on the ride home we hit a couple bumps in the road and she moved around some. I was reading that in a couple weeks the baby will get startled by loud noises.  We'll see how that goes in the gym! 

Here is a pic of me and the other turkey...Big Stef and Hudson, Jen and Banks.