"The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new." ~Rajneesh

Oh, how true this quote is!  Motherhood has definitely changed me as a person, and baby Sofia has already taught me things about myself, life, and love. She makes me want to be the best mama that I can be!

Here's our little monkey, already 2 weeks old!

 

It was tough to get a pic of her with her eyes open, I think she was going through a growth spurt on this particular day.  Speaking of growing, baby girl is back on track with her weight.  9 lbs 3 oz and 22 inches long (as of Monday) Yay! It's been nice to get more than 1 hour-ish of sleep.  Let's just say we shouldn't have an issue going forward, she is hungry little hippo and is a great eater.  So far, we are on a pretty consistant schedule of eating every 2 1/2-3 hours. Such a good little babe.  Not to mention she can sleep through anything.  I'm sure she heard Riley's deep bark and Rico's high-pitched yap in utero, haha.

Ok, so we had quite the adventure last Sunday taking newborn pics.  A huge thank you to Monique with Monique Hessler Photography for being so patient, and capturing such amazing pics of our precious girl. 

 

I'm really excited to document Sofie's monthly growth with these awesome stickers I found on etsy

Here's a picture from today, just loungin around with mama on a gorgeous October morning.

 

Gosh, I love our little monkey.  It's crazy how we've noticed how much she has already grown in 2 weeks.  Already having certain personality traits and habits.  This picture, for example, she always makes her way to the left side of the bassinet.  Never fails.  It's like her 3rd boob, haha.

Mmk, time to feed the pups.

Stay tuned!

 

"Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

She's here! Me, oh my...what a whirlwind the last week and a half has been.  I had a very last post to write with my 40 week picture, but my macbook won't let me load pics from my digi cam.  Oh well, who needs another belly post when baby is finally here. ♥

Birth Story

It all started on Tuesday, October 9th at my weekly OB appointment.  Rob came with me, since we were already over 40 weeks.  My doctor had been telling me for a few weeks now that she had a feeling baby girl was measuring pretty big.  At her 36 week ultrasound, she measuered 8lbs 5 oz  (I don't think i shared this on the blog because of the betting pool).  Of course, ultrasounds can be off as much as a pound either way. But still! Needless to say, she was worried about it.  Also, my cervix was still completely closed and I hadn't had any signs of labor.  Barely experienced any Braxton Hicks. Soooo, she booked us an induction for Friday (which we reluctantly said ok, for now) sent us to the hospital to do standard testing and an ultrasound to see how big she was.
Welp, they said she was already 10 lbs, *give or take a pound*  Holy mama!  No biggie, I had already had a few pep talks with my doula to prepare myself.

That's not all.

Her chest/tummy area were measuring abnormally larger than it should. Since this was my first birth, my doctor said "Even if you can get her head through, I don't think you can safely get the shoulders through and the baby may get shoulder distocia.  We need to do a c-section.  blah blah blah"  I say blah blah blah, because the minute I heard c-section, my eyes welled up and I started to shake. I barely heard the rest of what she said.  This isn't what I had been preparing for, in fact; this is what I've been preparing to avoid. Next thing I know, the nurses say they have an opening at 9 am (18 hours away).  I told them we need a few minutes to let this sink in and call our doula. Amanda (our doula) was such a great support and provided us with the knowledge we needed to make this decision.  I also trust my doctor, and her reputation for natural births and balancing conventional and homeopathic services.  I asked the nurses (who were excited to hear I was going med-free before the news) and asked them to be straight up honest.  They said c-section will be the safest way to get her out.  My mommy instincts were telling me the same.  Last thing I wanted was to try and be a hero and go for it, only to end up in an emergency c-section after 30 hours of labor. Ultimately, my goal had always been: whatever it takes to safely have a healthy baby.

So we made the decision. Scheduled c-section @ 9 am the next day. I think we got 4-5 hours of sleep, and both woke up at 3 am with anticipation and excitement knowing that in approximately 6 hours, we get to finally meet our miracle baby. We did some last minute nesting, double checked our overnight bags, and made our way to the hospital.  Amanda met us there and hung out with us during triage while we got prepped for surgery.  I don't know if I really digested what was to come, but I know that I was nervous.  I've never been in the hospital and the worst thing I've experienced is a sprained ankle (knock on wood, and super thankful)  We could only have one person in the operating room, so we said our goodbye to Amanda as she joined our parents in the waiting room.
I was so scared and nervous, I was shaking.  Not to mention the room was freezing, which made getting my epidural a feat for the doctor.  Took him a couple tries, as I arched my back over my big belly, focused on my breathing, and held on to a nurse.  She really got me through that part, and I was really grateful for that (rob wasn't allowed in until I was prepped).  The surgery was super short, maybe 15 minutes? It's the weirdest sensation being awake and alert, numbed from the chest down while they operate on you.  Tugging and pulling and pushing her down.  Finally, the anesthesiologist asked Rob if he had a camera because it was time.  Once I heard she was coming, I had a mini flashback of our 2 year journey to get to this moment and I couldn't help but cry.  Then, I heard her strong lungs crying out and my tears just came faster.  Our baby finally made it safe and sound! Born at 9:59am, 9lbs 2 oz and 20.5 inches long. Whoa mama!  Rob left to go cut the cord and play camera man again.  I wish they would have let Amanda be there, but it was ok.  Rob came over to me with our precious Sofia and put her cheek to cheek with me.  She immediately stopped crying when I said "It's ok baby, mama's here."

After they stitched me up, they took me to a temporary recovery room so I could establish breastfeeding (i made it known this was very important to me) That nurse was super helpful and was respectful about what we wanted to do as far as newborn procedures were concerned.  I recommend to any first time moms to research what is necessary, and what you can skip entirely or wait on.  I also asked for either one of us to be present when any procedures were done.  It's already a scary world for babies as it is! Not to mention, she was pretty noisy (lotsa crying) the first few hours after birth.  Can you blame her? She was probably mid-nap when they yanked her out of me vs a baby that instinctively knows to make his/her way down the birth canal. I should mention that her head was perfectly round and not "molded", as my doctor put it.  And as I mentioned earlier, they had to push her down (that took my breath away, ouch!) In other words, she was nice and comfy in my belly and didn't even try to make it down the birth canal.  Who knows how long I would have gone past my due date.  It made me feel better about our decision.
Proud daddy:

We didn't make it to our actual recovery room until around noon, and after that it was visitors galore.  We feel so blessed that our baby is so loved!  Thanks to everyone who came to visit us and helped with meals, our pups, and anything else.  We stayed at the hospital for 3 nights, and I can't express how great the entire hospital staff was while we learned on the fly.  I'm also extremely thankful for having such an awesome husband. I was impressed with how natural it all came to him. Watching him with our daughter made me fall in love with him all over again. He took care of us both.  After major surgery, it was like a 30 minute field trip for me just to go potty.  He became the ultimate diaper changer and burp master.  We definitely needed that extra night, and left with a lot more confidence.
Here are the proud grandparents:
Can't forget about the proud Aunts and Uncles:

Our first week home has gone by pretty quick, and it has been a learning experience (duh!).  We have a pretty nice setup in our room. Bassinet right next to me, changing area on top of our dresser, and our awesome gliding chair.  All I need is our mini fridge and I don't need to leave the room! Haha.   First few nights, Rob had to help me a lot more since it was difficult to get in and out of bed with my incision. Aaaand we were put on a strict feeding schedule since she lost more weight than normal.  Feed every 2 hours, feed pumped breast milk, supplement with a little formula, and pump for 30 minutes (for next feeding)  That left me with maybe an hour-ish to sleep.  Man oh man, that was challenging.  All things considered, can I just say how lucky we are?!  Sofia is such a good little baby *knock on wood* She is a happy baby with simple needs, and she makes me feel like I know what I'm doing! Hehe.  I'm also really surprised at how it's been easier than expected to function off of such little sleep.  There's gotta be some sort of science behind that right? After those first 2 nights with Rob's help, I decided to try and do it on my own.  Kind of a preparation for when he went back to work.  My mom also starting coming over in the mornings to help with housework and the baby, which has been really great.  I'm sure Nana is lovin all the quality time with us too. Thanks Nana!  Also, thanks to our family and friends who have gone out of their way to bring us dinner.  It has been super helpful and made this transition that much easier.

I can't wait to start writing more about our precious baby girl.  It's amazing how much she has already changed our lives.  It's true when they say you will never really know until you experience it for yourself.  And that all the pregnancy discomforts, pain that comes from birth, and other sacrifices made are worth it. I have so much love in my heart for this little being, that I'm overcome by emotion.  I'm noticing her grow up before my eyes and wish she would stay this little forever.  Yes, I'm that kinda mom!  Of course I am excited and curious to see what kind of little girl and young woman she will become.  But every time I look at her, I just wish time could stand still, because she is so perfect in that very moment.  le sigh
Photo Bomb time!
First night home:

First sponge bath:

First visit to the doc:

Here's one of my faves, thank you instagram for making me a professional photographer (totally kidding!)
First smile caught on camera:

Daddy burping his baby girl:

One last one, since it's rare she is awake and we get to see those pretty peepers:

Mmk, time for me to get some sleep.  Things to come include: newborn photo shoot this weekend with Monique Hessler Photography (she did our maternity pics) and I plan on finding something cool to share baby stats, kinda like I did with the belly stats.

Besos,

Baby Mama Lex

"Time is making fools of us again." ~J.K. Rowling

Tick tock! I find this quote rather fitting for my current situation.  I've been told at all my ultrasound appointments ordered by my doc that I've been measuring a week early, and at my OB appointments; my belly measurement has also shown about a week early. Pffft! We are 3 days away from the due date.  So much for accuracy, haha. Oh wells.  Like I've been saying, gotta take it all with a grain of salt. But, I gotta be honest... I'm officially ancy and anxious to finally meet my little babe.  ((not to mention SO over being preggers)) Especially since I've noticed a mini baby boom amongst my fellow FB ladies.  I can count a handful that were due after me and have already had their babies.  Is it my turn yet?! le sigh.  However, I'm extremely grateful that I've made it full term. I've seen a few mamas out there that had their babies too early and not be so lucky.  I do count my blessings and am so thankful I've had a low risk pregnancy with no hospital visits or preterm labor.  Buuuuut, stilllll. This last home stretch has been rough!

So yup, I'm still here. As pregnant as ever. I'm happy to report my preggers twinsie, Tanicka, had baby London Amaya on Sunday.  She just had to be a September baby. Hahaha, I love it.  Successful VBAC with a healthy, happy baby girl.  So excited for them!  When we went to visit, I had 3-4 people ask if I was checking in and all I could do was shamefully drop my head and say in a small voice, "no, not yet..."  bahahaha. I'm such a little whiny punk.
I'm so ready! Got my overnight bag ready, diaper bag, putting together a doggy bag (not for leftovers) for the pups when they need to go to Casa de Cuervos. Let's do this!
Poor Rob is extremely ready! I think it's been a challenge to focus at work this week because he is so excited.  Also, since I've had a lot more pelvic pressure and groan in pain while I sleep; he is wide awake ready to go "Babe, you ok? Is it a contraction?"  or when I *ever so slowly* get up to go pee (for the 6th time) he says he is just waiting for me to tell him my water broke or I found other evidence of labor (bloody show, sorry if it's TMI).  Could I just say that i absolutely love how knowledgeable and involved Rob has been throughout this whole pregnancy. It's pretty great.
Not much else to report, so how bout some belly stats (hopefully the last one?)


How far along: 39 weeks 1 day
Baby is the size of a: mini watermelon (20 in & 7.25 lbs)
Total weight gain: 54. please stop! haha
Maternity clothes: non-maternity comfy skirts and comfy tank tops. or naked (my preference! haha)
Stretch marks? Still the same ones on the bottom of my belly, and on each hip.
Sleep: straight up sucks, just being honest!
Best moment this week: getting to hold not 1, but 2 newborns. is it my turn yet?!
Miss Anything? feeling like myself, like my body isn’t falling a part. the feeling in my right hand, lying on my belly, seeing my ankle bones, an ice cold margy, sushi, a hard workout, having energy, being able to move without something hurting, ok. i’ll stop. haha
Movement: yup, my little night owl. and everytime she moves, I sweetly ask if she is ready to keep moving down. haha
Food cravings: bluebell icecream (cookies and cream AND butter crunch) anything chocolate & peanut butter. firehouse subs. honey hot wings.
Anything making you queasy or sick: still feel icky after most meals. suuucks
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: It’s really hard to say
Symptoms: the usual: back aches, arm/leg cramps, tons of pelvic pressure(ow!), carpal tunnel, tummy ickiness, burps, fatigue, swelling (the fingers on my right hand have been tingly/numb for quite some time) And more fatigue, WTH! Oh, and a new one: my knees are starting to hurt. basically, I’m falling a part
Belly Button in or out? Kinda flat, sometimes pops out depending on how I’m sitting
Wedding rings on or off? Off. My poor, tingly sausage fingers.
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy AND moody, I am pregnant people! haha
Looking forward to: holding and cuddling our precious Sofia, whenever she decides to make her grand entrance.

Happy October!  My favorite part of the year has officially begun.

Big Gulps huh? Welp, see ya later!
Lex

"Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish." ~John Quincy Adams

TGIF!  I'm late on my post this week, oopsy.  Honestly, this last week kinda feels like a blur because I've been so exhausted.  Just when I think I've reached the limit of this fatigue, the exhaustion goes to the next level. le sigh.  It's not easy! Just knowing I'm that much closer to D-day and finally meeting our little babe, motivates me to just take it a day at a time.  I think I've been day dreaming a lot.  I wonder what she is going to look like.  What color eyes will she have?  How much hair will she have?  How big will she be? [yikes!] My bed time dreams have been about going into labor and being so ready to do the damn thing.  I think I'm just really anxious to meet her, not to mention I feel like my body is falling a part. haha. Oh well, I'm glad she will still be an October baby, and so is Rob.  It's been a challenging month at good ol Infusionsoft, but it looks like the Robulator has made the magic happen.  Last week of the month can be rough, he has been "burning the midnight oil" as my FIL says.  Is it October yet?

One exciting thing about this week was getting my "push present". I've never heard of this until I read it in my Baby Center birth board.  It's a present your hubby or significant other gifts to you for "pushing". Haha.  I'm honestly excited to just have our little baby join our family, but have graciously accepted my new, shiny iPhone 5.  Thanks babe!  Oh, and a few things I ordered for Sofia came in the mail. This blog will be more of a photo bomb.

I ordered this girl sock monkey knitted hat off of etsy for the newborn photo shoot. ohemgeeeee, can't wait!

I ordered this adorable AZ Cards onesie and matching headband through Chunky Monkey Creations (http://www.facebook.com/ChunkyMonkeyCreations/info?ref=ts). Thanks again Erika!

Kindra and I had a random craft session last weekend and we made these cute headbands. I have a lot of pink and wanted to get ready for the fall season. Now I need to find matching outfits, hehe

I've been meaning to post about the beautiful necklace Rob got custom made for me.  It is simple, but elegant and has our baby girl's name on it with the loveliest font.  I added my wedding ring, since I'm unable to wear it these days.  It was the last gift I opened at the baby shower last month and was a really sweet surprise.  I love having such a thoughtful husband.

Aaaaaand I put together this belly growth comparison collage.  I used InstaPicFrame before uploading to Instagram.

I'd like to make a note that my absolute fave belly pic is the bottom left @ 18 weeks. ((i'm literally glowing!)) This was the very day that my All Day Sickness went away and I felt on top of the world.  Man, that was the best week ever.  My birfday, the gender reveal party, and feeling good.
I'm hoping I will have one more post of a belly pic/update after today, since I take a new one tomorrow.  Hopefully the post after that will be a photo bomb of Sofie's arrival. A girl can dream, right?

Belly stat time!
How far along: 38 weeks 1 day
Baby is the size of a: leek?(19.75 in & 6.8 lbs)
Total weight gain: officially 50, bah hum bug
Maternity clothes: non-maternity comfy skirts and comfy tank tops. or naked (my preference! haha)
Stretch marks? Still the same ones on the bottom of my belly, and on each hip.
Sleep: not great, oh well. prepping me for sleep deprivation with a newborn right?
Best moment this week: going in the pool, feels so good rest my achy/swelling body
Miss Anything? boy, do I ever.
Movement: yup, my little night owl
Food cravings: I don’t even know if they are really cravings. I crave to eat junk food because it tastes so yummy
Anything making you queasy or sick: nothing different. still feel icky after most meals. suuucks
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope. A few Braxton Hicks.
Symptoms: the usual: back aches, arm/leg cramps, tons of pelvic pressure(ow!), carpal tunnel, tummy ickiness, burps, fatigue, swelling (the fingers on my right hand have been tingly/numb for quite some time) And more fatigue, WTH! Oh, and a new one: my knees are starting to hurt. basically, I’m falling a part
Belly Button in or out? Kinda flat, sometimes pops out depending on how I’m sitting
Wedding rings on or off? Off. My poor, tingly sausage fingers.
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy AND moody, I am pregnant people! haha
Looking forward to: holding and cuddling our precious Sofia, whenever she decides to make her grand entrance.
One last picture, for shits & gigs. A picture of me from date night last weekend...

Haha, jk.  I feel like Princess Fiona with my ogre cheeks and hands. Gahhhh. Ok, I lied.  Just one more pic, to end on a positive, happy note.  The ying & yang of our household.  150 lb Great Dane & 3 lb Chihuahua BFF's

Time to bounce on my ball and encourage baby girl to drop even further down the rabbit hole. Haha

Until next time,

Lex

PS
Congrats to all the ladies that had their babies recently.  Especially our friends Steve & Nikki welcoming their twin boys.   It was a week for boys to be born, I suppose.  Maybe Tanicka and I can start the trend on birthing the ladies soon!

"Part of being a parent is rolling with the punches, so consider an unexpected pregnancy the universe's way of helping you to learn to do that." ~Heather Wittenberg

Man oh MAN! When i read this quote, it was a total "A-ha!" moment for me.  This post will be dedicated to a summary of my pregnancy. As a disclaimer: It will be the raw truth, and it may not always be pretty.  I certainly recognize that each pregnancy is unique and different in it's own way. So, documenting this may provide insight for me when I'm ready for baby #2; or it may be useless!
I always thought (or secretly hoped) I would be one of those women that would *absolutely* love being pregnant.  I was very confident about a few things. For example: "I'm definitely going to continue to be as active as I am and continue my healthy lifestyle." Easy peasy right? Wrong. Most of you know that I'm into fitness & nutrition, even if I have a glorified sweet tooth.  I was consistently working out 5 days a week. Lotsa running, incorporating p90x and insanity, starting to get into yoga, and enjoying my Monday night indoor soccer. I had a good thing going with my 5 small perfectly-portioned meals per day. le sigh. Seems like sucha distant memory for me now.  But that's the beauty of pregnancy, it can knock you on your ass and you will get back up and brush it off.  You might even smile afterwards.  Not even 2 weeks after finding out we were pregnant, I was taken prisoner by whom I commonly refer to as the "nausea monster". For the next 94 days (yes, i counted!), my life was plagued by this monster.

Every.single.day.all.day.long.no.effing.joke.

My morning sickness was more like All Day Sickness. Kinda felt like I went on Space Mountain 10x in a row and that vertigo/motion sickness stuck around until I laid my poor head to sleep.  It was the most challenging part of this pregnancy, hands down. Needless to say, working out 5x a week dwindled rather quickly.  Eating was a whole other ball game.  I lost 6 lbs in one week from being so sick.  I had to listen to my body better.  Instead of trying to eat my usual go-to meals (which made me feel more nauseous), I did what I could to survive.  Turns out, eating pizza 4-5 days a week is what put me back on track.  Poor Rob couldn't cook much, since the smell drove me bonkers. I don't think he even realized how challenging it would be, but we stuck through it together!  Not to drone on about this more, but I also tried virtually any remedy I could get my hands on (don't even mention the word ginger to me).  Tried 2 prescriptions that are apparently miracle workers for other women. Nothing helped. Well, I stand corrected.  B6 and 1/2 of a sleeping pill 3x a day (considered safe by my Dr) actually helped.  But I was a complete zombie. Lesser of 2 evils? Nah. I decided to suck it up and not take unnecessary meds and pray that it would go away soon.  What was even harder to deal with was feeling so miserable, when I was supposed to be on Cloud 9.  I didn't realize how many times people ask pregnant women "How are you feeling?!"  After awhile, I slapped a smile on my face and said "Oh, feeling fine!" Trying to hold back tears and the real truth. I really thought it was gonna be like this all 9 months!  Luckily, my precious Sofia must have heard my prayers and the week of my birfday and the gender reveal party; it magically went away. She really must love her mama. Finally, after 3 months aka 12 weeks aka 94 days; I could finally enjoy the 2nd trimester. Yay!
Ever since then, I have mostly enjoyed this pregnancy.  Seeing her sweet face at the ultrasound appointments.  Listening to her strong heartbeat.  Feeling her kick and move around to remind me that all this sacrifice will be worth it.  It makes all the other things so much more tolerable.
It's been humbling to watch my body change and to gain more weight than anticipated. Yes, I got the boobs I always wanted! haha. Aaaand I probably jinxed myself when I said "I don't care if I gain 90 lbs, as long as I have a healthy baby!".  Thanks a lot universe, I was exaggerating. sheesh.  But really, it's true.  Even the nausea monster was a blessing.  I was too busy being nauseous to worry if 3rd time was really the charm on finally becoming a mother.  The journey to get to this point in my life has helped me accept how unexpected this pregnancy has been.  Trust me, I have my moments where I throw myself a pity party (hormones, hello!).  At the end of the day, I am just thankful that both baby girl and I are healthy.  Not high risk.  No gestational diabetes. Placenta moved back to where it belongs. Baby is no longer breech. Hallelujah! Gotta always look at the bright side.  I guess all I can say is you really do need to roll with the punches, take any and all advice with a grain of salt.  Don't feel guilty for not *absolutely* loving being pregnant.  You're only human.  Most importantly, remember that it is only temporary!

And here I sit, watching Sex & The City re-runs trying to take it easy.  Feeling as exhausted and as uncomfortable as ever.  With a smile on my face, because we finally made it.  We are officially full term, meaning she can come anytime and will be healthy.  God, I am so grateful.
I mean, look at this sweet lil face!

Hokay. Pregnancy stats!
How far along: 37 weeks 2 days
Baby is the size of a: watermelon! (19.3 in & 6.3 lbs)
Total weight gain: 47 lbs and proud, what can I say?
Maternity clothes: non-maternity comfy skirts and comfy tank tops. or naked (my preference! haha)
Stretch marks? Still the same ones on the bottom of my belly, and one each hip.
Sleep: still not the best. I started to take more naps, but then I don’t get to bed on time, sheesh.
Best moment this week: Getting to see our little love on the ultrasound! She is just perfect
Miss Anything? a lot! mostly just feeling normal. it’s hard to explain, blah
Movement: oh yes. she is a night owl and these kicks are fierce. even makes rob jump when he feels them, haha
Food cravings: Pizza. Burgers. Frosty. Sweets. More sweets.  J&K Chinese food. Nature Valley Bars. Cookies & Cream hersheys kisses! Did I mention sweets? I’ve been naughty.
Anything making you queasy or sick: nothing different. still feel icky after most meals. suuucks
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope. A few Braxton Hicks, I think?
Symptoms: the usual: back aches, arm/leg cramps, tons of pelvic pressure(ow!), carpal tunnel, a little tummy ickiness, burps and fatigue. aaand swelling, the fingers on my right hand have been tingly/numb for over a week now. And more fatigue, WTH!
Belly Button in or out? Kinda flat, sometimes pops out depending on how I’m sitting
Wedding rings on or off? Off. My poor, tingly sausage fingers.
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy AND moody, I am pregnant people! haha
Looking forward to: next OB appt to see if there are any changes. Oh and for this adorable girl sock monkey hat I ordered on etsy for Sofia’s newborn photo shoot. It’s the small things in life, hehe
It's kinda crazy that this will be one of my last times updating a belly shot with stats. I'm giddy just thinking about the big day.  I really can't wait!

Hope everyone is having a great week!

xoxo
Lex

"Live truth instead of professing it." ~Elbert Hubbard

TGIF! Man oh man, it kinda feels like the weeks are flying by.  Just that much closer to concluding this pregnancy and welcoming our baby girl into our arms.  Words can't begin to describe how excited both of us are! ♥

I've been trying to do some reflecting; both inward and outward. I feel that there is this sense of new responsibility (duh) that is unchartered territory when becoming a parent.  It's why I chose this quote.  What type of values do we want to instill on this impressionable child? I, for one, will challenge myself to re-evaluate my own.  Actions speak louder than words, and no matter what I say to my children; they will observe my behaviors and learn far more that way.  I'm proud to say that both Rob and I do our best to "Live truth" versus just professing it.  It's not always easy, and we do make mistakes.  But, the genuine effort is there. I think the fact that we have been affected by some people doing the exact opposite, has motivated us to live by this mantra even more so.  C'est la vie.
Ok, so I finally finished my secret project I made for Rob.  A Daddy Hospital Survival Kit.  Of course, I got the idea from Pinterest.  While he was outta town, my friend Christa charted me around town and helped me put it together. Thanks again Christa!  It was a combination of actual necessities, and just some fun ideas. Yes, the card is addressed to "baby daddy". haha
I bought him these super-awesome headphones that my BIL Nick has been raving about. They are called "yurbuds" and are worth every penny ($50 at Best Buy).  It really feels like you have surround sound in your ears when you wear them. legiiiiiit!
Oh yes, had to find me a card to express how I feel.  So thankful and blessed to have such an amazing hubby!
Top Left: Venti Mug from Starbucks with paper insert that you can personalize. I put a few quotes and wrote "Best Daddy Ever: Rob Hegarty"  Top Right: Individual vanilla coffee packets, also from Starbucks. Bottom Right: Kleenex! Bottom Left: Mint Lifesavers (one of rob's faves).  He really is my lifesaver!
Top Left: A box of earplugs.  Top Right: bag of hershey's hugs & kisses. Bottom Right: Deodorant. Bottom Left: a baggy of Advil.

I also included a Men's health magazine, trail mix, gum, and hand sanitizer.  It was fun putting it all together. Rob liked his gift! It was hard for me to keep the secret (he came home early one day and i warned him to stay out of the office!) haha.
It's the least I could do for him.  He really has stepped up to the plate these last 8 months (well, even before that).  It seems as if the dads get left behind during the pregnancy/baby-hoopla and I wanted him to know that he is just as involved and important in this journey.  He has always taken care of me, and those characteristics he has shown in the last 5 1/2 years just prove that he is going to make an amazing Dad. I can't wait!!

Mmk, a quick pregnancy update.  I think I now understand the whole "omg-i'm-just-so-ready-to-get-this-damn-baby-out-already!" phase that people refer to.  Don't get me wrong, I'm taking full advantage of being pregnant and very thankful that I am.  But sheesh, this last week or so has really been a challenge.  I'm starting to get pretty uncomfortable and sleep isn't as smooth as it used to be.  It's frustrating not being able to do as much as I used to and feeling like I'm lazy (i know it's not true).  The carpal tunnel/swelling is such a pain in my ass. My right hand is the worst, so I've been trying to become ambidextrous.  Brushing my teeth is becoming more of a chore than it needs to be.  Turns out, I'm not all that coordinated with my left hand! Haha. Oh me oh my, gotta be able to laugh at yourself at the end of the day.  All the aches and pains are worth it.  So I'm told, hehe.
How far along: 36 weeks 1 day
Baby is the size of a: Crenshaw melon-not sure what that is (18.75 in & 5.75 lbs)
Total weight gain: 45 lbs, really hoping to not exceed 50. but, whatev!
Maternity clothes: non-maternity comfy skirts and comfy tank tops. or naked (my preference! haha)
Stretch marks? Still the same ones on the bottom of my belly, and one on my hip
Sleep: not so comfy these days, and Rob tells me I’m snoring/ breathing weird. haha
Best moment this week: Weather cooling down, hallelujah. Rob getting to hear the heartbeat for the first time in months.
Miss Anything? feeling somewhat normal and having energy. sushi. ice cold margy. lying on my belly. etc
Movement: Yuppers. She likes to kick me in the ribs. My little Mia Hamm
Food cravings: Pizza. Burgers. Frosty. Sweets. More sweets.  J&K Chinese food. Nature Valley Bars. Cookies & Cream hersheys kisses! I'm really obsessed with those lately. Can't just enjoy one, I have to eat like 5 in a 20 second time frame. hahaha
Anything making you queasy or sick: nothing different. still feel icky after most meals. been popping more tums lately
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope. A few Braxton Hicks
Symptoms: the usual: back aches, arm/leg cramps, tons of pelvic pressure(ow!), carpal tunnel, a little tummy ickiness, burps and fatigue. aaand swelling, the fingers on my right hand have been tingly/numb for at least a week now.
Belly Button in or out? Kinda flat, sometimes pops out depending on how I’m sitting
Wedding rings on or off? Off. My poor sausage fingers.
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy AND moody, how bout that!? haha
Looking forward to: the weather really cooling down, for realsies. aaaaand for baby Sofia to be here with us!

Ooh, I almost forgot.  Jody was kind enough to put together a betting pool for Sofia.  To guess the following: 1. Birth Day and Time and 2. Weight & Length.  It's a $5 buy in for each bet. You can go to: https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/8MNka?psid=6cd5965ee7b844d28d2595ba4e6d1f5b
This is the FB event: http://www.facebook.com/events/519866188028556/
You can post your guess on the event wall or email jody: kane.jody@yahoo.com
Only info I've given is that she has been measuring a week early (sometimes means nothing!) and the updated belly pic.  I am taking a new one tomorrow and will try (keyword:try) to update my blog a little earlier this time.

I will see ya then, or see ya on another time!

Lex

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive.” ~Gilda Radner

Le sigh. Last 2 weeks have been a bit blurry for me, and I’m over a week behind on my posts. Sowwy!  Aaaand I’m gonna really try and not be a Debbie Downer in this entry, but I also want to be honest about how it’s been. Welp, Rob went on his annual Man Trip to Milwaukee & Chicago and left me by my lonesome! Haha jk, it was a well-deserved trip, as he has been working his ass off at work and at home too.  Nonetheless, no job and no school (which I am thankful for) does leave a girl a little bored and lonely.  I didn’t really have the motivation to make plans, so I am thankful for the people in my life that took the time to make sure I was doing okay and spent some time with me.  I’m usually pretty independent, but my options have been limited lately due to this ridiculous heat impairing me.  Yes, the swelling has come full force.  I can’t even be outside for more than 5-10 minutes without my hands swelling/falling asleep and my feet and ankles swelling. Not to mention having very little energy.  It’s crazzzyy! But, expected during the home stretch of this pregnancy.
Rob came home and had to dive right into “end of the month” mode, which can also leave me bored & lonely (love you babe).  Honestly though, this man has really done what it takes to provide and I’m so proud of him. As most of you already know, last Tuesday was an awful day.  Our sweet Roxy passed away.  She had been feeling sick on and off for a few weeks (which isn’t really abnormal, since she has always been sick on & off since we rescued her 4 years ago).  I think she was waiting for Rob to come home.  Needless to say, her breathing issues caught up with her and she passed quickly (and I hope, painlessly). 

Probably top 3 of the most traumatic things I’ve ever been through, but I really am glad that we could be right by her side.  So many mixed emotions, and so many “what-ifs” have crossed both our minds.  I just can’t believe she is gone, I miss her.  Just everyday routines have made me really miss her. Finding her fur on my clothes (she drove me nuts when she rubbed her body on our clean clothes in the closet) to locking doors because she knew how to open them.  I never thought it would be this hard to lose a pet.  Sure, I’ve lost family pets….but, this cut us really deep.  Our dogs are our furkids! Ok, let’s pep it up.  The comforting notion is that she is no longer suffering, because let me tell you; this pup could never catch a break.  She was always still so happy, considering.  We saved her from being euthanized at a puppy mill, and gave her 4 years she otherwise would have never had. She is now in doggy heaven with a new set of lungs frolicking in the meadows and cuddling with our 2 angel babies and other loved ones.  This thought makes me smile.
Life is quite funny sometimes.  A day after we lost Roxy, this adorable teacup Chihuahua made his way into our yard.  He snuck in through the decorative part of the block fence, at the bottom. Of course I didn't realize this until he spent the day with Riley and I and escaped! I think Roxy sent him to lift our spirits, because he sure acts like her (follows me around everywhere, loves his ears scratched, demands all of your attention, and loves to snuggle).  He has an unregistered chip and we haven't heard back from the rescue group that adopted him out. We were so bummed he escaped, until 4 days later he came back at 1am and scratched on our back door (that leads to the master) This little dude is a riot!  I need to put up flyers in addition to a Craig's list ad Rob put up to find his owners.  I don't wanna take someone's pet, but he has shown up twice! I think it's meant to be for him to join our family.  He is older and potty trained, and already acts like he has lived here his whole life. And he totally thinks I'm his mama bear, just sayin! This picture shows the cute little dude and the vast difference in size between him & Riley.
Mmk, soooo…we are less than 2 weeks away from being “full term”. Holy.crap.Shit.just.got.real.  Hahaha. I just can’t believe we are so close to meeting our precious Sofia!  Besides a few select items we would like to get, we are ready. Finally scheduled a hospital tour for next week, bought our stroller and car seat (jogger stroller, woo!), and got myself a cute overnight bag to pack (the brand is Roxy. So fitting).  Jody is putting together a betting pool to guess 1. Date & Time 2. Weight & Length.  I’m curious as to when she will be ready to make her entrance.  Maybe end of September? Who knows!

I’m probably more ready than Rob, because being pregnant is not easy towards the end (for me, pretty much for the majority of it)  All the moms forget that part, and that’s why I have this blog! It’s true what they say; the 2^nd trimester is/was the best.  What I’ve learned, though, is that each pregnancy is different.  Gotta take all the information, advice, and suggestions with a grain of salt and make sure you try and have a smile on your face.  Enjoy the ride, even if it gets bumpy.  Or in my case, gives you 94 days of vertigo and nausea! I shudder at the thought, haha.  Here are this weeks preggers stats:

How far along: 35 weeks 2 days
Baby is the size of a: honeydew melon (18 in & 5.25 lbs)
Total weight gain: 42 lbs
Maternity clothes: non-maternity comfy skirts and comfy tank tops. or naked (my preference! haha)
Stretch marks? Just a few, which is a pleasant surprise
Sleep: ehh, starting to get uncomfortable (potty breaks, carpal tunnel and pelvic pressure)
Best moment this week: OB appt-hearing baby’s heart beat is always wonderful aaaand rob coming home from the man trip.
Miss Anything? having energy, this baby has been growing lots in the last 2-3 weeks. sooo.tirrred.
Movement: Yup! Poor babe is trying to find room to stretch out. Oh, and daily hiccups.
Food cravings: Pizza (duh) Nature Valley Granola Bars. Anything sweet. My appetite (sweet tooth) is insatiable lately. Eek!
Anything making you queasy or sick: nothing different. been popping more tums lately
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope. Still need a few weeks of cookin’ time!
Symptoms: the usual: back aches, arm/leg cramps, pelvic pressure(ow!), carpal tunnel, a little tummy ickiness, burps and fatigue. aaand finally the swelling has come. like, for reals this time. haha
Belly Button in or out? Kinda flat, sometimes pops out depending on how I’m sitting
Wedding rings on or off? Off. My poor sausage fingers.
Happy or Moody most of the time: happy, of course. more emotional lately, but it’s probably because I miss my roxy girl
Looking forward to: Ultrasound next week sometime, I just love seeing her sweet face and am curious about how big she is and keeping my fingers crossed that she is head down (fairly confident based on her hiccups)
For shits & gigs, here is my pic from last week:
As you can see, I'm running out of clothes to wear! I kinda refuse to buy anymore and could care less if my belly peeks out at the bottom. Haha.  I love using the excuse of being pregnant to get away with stuff.  Lately, I've been saying "Who's gonna argue with a pregnant lady?!" Or "Can't judge a pregnant lady!" Haha, I think Rob has to bite his tongue a little.
Mmk, time to do something with my life today. Make some juice and do a little bit of housework. So. tired. Blah


 Until next week,

Baby Mama Lex


P.S.  I wanted to take a moment of silence to honor one of the most extraordinary women I've had the pleasure of knowing.  Joyce Anne Ware Longfellow aka Grandma Lolly.  I will always remember how welcome she made me feel, including me as if I was her own grandchild.  She has touched and inspired so many lives, it is unbelievable.  She truly exemplified the meaning of living life to it's fullest, with love and happiness. She was an entrepreneur, a dreamer, a do-er, and most of all; all about her family.  I feel honored to have known her for the last 12-13 years.  My heart goes out to her close family and friends, and I continue to pray for all those that grieve and miss her divine soul.  Thank you for making this world a more beautiful place.