To My 27th Year: Monthly Follow-Up

During my 27th year I decided I want to commit to writing a follow up to my post To My 27th Year the first Monday of each month. I hope that I'm able to follow through for the whole year, so I can look back and see how I've done.  Since I'm linking up, go check out Amanda's blog Marry Mint :)

Here's to the December of my 27th year...

1. Use Less Technology - So it's been two months, but this goal is still going well.  Some nights I've given myself more time after 8:30pm, so I hope for March I can quit that.  It's not helping anything, although I guess it's not hurting anything either.  It could potentially be hurtful to my relationship with John though, so I want to be mindful of that.  John was sweet the other day and said that he wanted to start "unplugging" at night too.  Maybe I'm rubbing off on him a bit :)  I plan to keep doing the same things during March. 

2. Bake My Little Heart Out - I made banana chocolate chip muffins and pumpkin banana chocolate chip bread (Both can be found on my Pinterest).  I made Easy Creamy Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken in January and it is a keeper!  It was SO easy and so tasty.  I made a double recipe and that provided a meal for a friend who just had a baby and an extra for me to put in the freezer.  This month or next I want to get a freezer meal plan in place so there will be some meals ready once Baby Girl comes.  My sister and I are going to get together on a Saturday and do it together.  It should be fun :)    

3. Take Advantage of Snail Mail - I sent two letters this morning.  One to a high school friend whom I haven't spoken to in years.  Kai colored a picture for a friend and we sent that too.  I love snail mail!  We got a book of 100 stamps at Costco yesterday so I'd better get writing and Kai coloring. 

 

4. No Picking - Seems the last two months have been pretty good in this department.  I think baby girl is helping me out since that's what happened during my pregnancy with Kai. 

 

5. Church - The last two months haven't been great.  We made it yesterday and it was wonderful.  Kai is fabulous in the nursery, very minimal tears!  It made this momma SO happy!  Hockey is slowing down significantly so church will be so much easier to get to.  We can go as a family.  March should be great. 

 

6. See a Friend - I've seen many friends, so this goal is always good.  I have two mommas and their daughters coming over tomorrow to play.  I love seeing friends just as much as Kai does, so we do our best to see people.  

 

7. Go Walking/Exploring -We got a membership to Edinborough Park and Kai loves it there.  It has a small gym and a huge indoor park.  It's wonderful for Kai and also a workout for me.  We've been attending Storytime at the Library and Kai loves that too.  We keep pretty busy especially since it's been so cold and we haven't been able to get outside.  We've been to the zoo a few times too.  Looks like we've done well!  This month we'll be going to Florida with my family.  Kai will get another plane ride under his belt and I know he'll love swimming and running and soaking up vitamin d.  I honestly can't wait! 

 

8. Sew/Craft: I haven't done much of anything since there hasn't been much extra time.  I'm working on a few gift, so I'll be getting in some more this month.

9. Savor - The last two months have been a lot about savoring.  I've been savoring Baby Girl so much as she is kicking and moving and making her presence known every day.  I'm so thankful that she's gotten bigger and I can feel her more because her placenta is in front.  I've been savoring my sweet boy as he's saying so many words.  He says "lav la" (love ya) after we say it to him.  It's the best thing ever!  Lastly John and I actually got to go on a date.  It was fun to be with just him, since it happens so rarely.  I love where I'm at in life and wouldn't trade it for the world. God has so richly blessed me.   

To My 27th Year: Monthly Follow-Up

During my 27th year I decided I want to commit to writing a follow up to my post To My 27th Year the first Monday of each month. I hope that I'm able to follow through for the whole year, so I can look back and see how I've done.  Since I'm linking up, go check out Amanda's blog Marry Mint :)


Here's to the December of my 27th year...

1. Use Less Technology - I feel great about this goal.  I continue to leave my electronics in the kitchen overnight, but they have been sneaking back over to the couch during the day.  Since the new year has also come I've decided to add three parts to this goal.  One is that my phone and iPad need to stay on/near the kitchen island while Kai is awake.  If I want to use them during naptime that's completely fine, but I don't want them to be a temptation while I should be playing with my sweet little guy.  Two is that I need to be intentional about unplugging at night.  Since I have been unable to be successful at this without a reminder I set an alarm on my phone and my iPad for 8:30pm.  The last two nights I've actually turned off my devices before that time so I haven't needed the alarm.  In the future I might decide to lower that time to 8pm, but we'll see.  Lastly I have decided to only check my email once in the morning, once at naptime (if I want) and once before bed.  I check it a lot during the day and all I get is spam and it's a waste of time.  I hope that it will make me feel more intentional about the emails I sent and receive.  Hopefully January goes great!   

2. Bake My Little Heart Out - I baked a few different things during  December.  I made these three recipes (Chocolate Chip Blossoms, Brownie Peanut Butter Bites and Pretzel Thingys)  The choco chip blossoms had no recipe because I used store bought dough and put a chocolate kiss on top.  Super easy, not very good looking, tasted ok.  The Brownie Peanut Butter Bites were AWESOME!  Highly recommend, especially because I love using my mini muffin tin.  I failed at the pretzel thingys big time and ended up throwing them all away.  For this month I've been thinking about trying a few new recipes and being more strategic about meal planning.  For example yesterday I made an entire package of ground turkey.  I put part of it into the crockpot chilli for supper last night and seasoned the rest with our homemade taco seasoning for tonight.  Kai struggles between 4:30-whenever John gets home or we start eating supper, so the more time I have for him then the better.  I'm also hoping to try my hand at some freezer meals, but that might not be this month.

3. Take Advantage of Snail Mail -We delivered almost all our snail mail this month, but we'll get back into it this month :)

4. No Picking - Argh.  Some days are great, some are not.

5. Church - December was SO busy!  I believe we made it the first two weeks and then on Christmas Eve.  Not the best, but I'm considering it pretty good because the other weekends we were out of town at Christmas celebrations.  January should be less busy.... fingers crossed!

6. See a Friend - December was filled with family and friends.  I wish I could've enjoyed a longer time with some of the friends I saw, but I'll take what I can get :) 

7. Go Walking/Exploring - We went to the zoo with Grandma Karen and visited the Children's Museum in Omaha over Christmas.  As far as walking goes Kai has taken to walking on his tiptoes half the time.  Crazy kid!  It's been below 10 degrees the past few days, so we haven't even gotten out of the house.  Hopefully the rest of January will ease up a bit so we can go a few places.  We've already had some visitors so that helps.

8. Sew/Craft: I finished my Christmas crafts in December and that felt great!  I don't have any big plans for the new, but I have started organizing my craft corner in the basement.  I think having everything in it's place will feel good and maybe I'll start to tackle a big project.  

9. Savor - I've had some great savor moments the past month.  I've gotten to snuggle/hold/kiss Kai while he's been sleeping.  I've gotten to rock him to sleep too.  He's gotten quite a personality too, so I've been relishing the sound of his giggle and every new word.  He's just such a treasure.  I've been doing my best to savor my relationship with John too.  Some days we feel very disconnected from each other, but we've tried to be more intentional, even if it's just an extra hug or an extra I love you.  He's my best friend and I'm thankful for him every day and I just want him to always know that.

Thanks for reading! 

Losing Baby #2

Disclaimer: I plan to be very honest and descriptive when I talk about our miscarriage experience. I don't mean to sadden, gross out or offend anyone. Everything I write are my own feelings or John's. I want to be helpful to anyone going through a similar experience. While we were going through it I couldn't find any personal stories that were detailed enough to relate to which is what lead me to post. I know it will also be healing for me. Thanks for reading!

My period didn't come back after having Kai until he was almost eleven months old. John and I knew we wanted to have our babies close together so I was relieved I wouldn't have to choose between breastfeeding (which can delay the return) my sweet boy and conceiving another little one. I have a history of an irregular cycle so we figured it was our cue to try and if we hit the magic day great, if not we had time. I started getting negative tests mid-July. I was bummed, but figured it was our first try and I was focusing on the trip to St. Thomas we had planned. I packed pregnancy tests and other "supplies" to be prepared for both scenarios. After a few days on vacay, Aunt Flo still hadn't visited, so I took a test, negative. A few days later another test and a faint positive!  I took the test again very early in the morning (Here's the blog about finding out about Kai!) It took a little while to sink in, but I felt happy. John woke up right on cue, so I was able to let him in on our secret. We were unable to celebrate out loud because we had brought my youngest sister on vacation with to help with Kai.  We only had a few more days of vacation so we soaked in the sun, sand and beautiful Caribbean ocean water and then it was time to go home.  Here's a little tidbit I wrote on vacation for our sweet baby:

"Yesterday we found out you were coming. You are an answer to prayer sweet baby! The night before I prayed for a sign either way because I hadn't gotten my period and all the tests I had taken were negative. I took a test at 4am and surprise you're inside growing!  We love you already! Can't wait to meet you!"

After we got home I called the midwives to schedule my first prenatal appointment.  They don't see you until 8-10 weeks so I scheduled my appointment for August 28.  We had decided to tell people on Kai's first birthday August 23 because my sister was getting married on August 16th and we didn't want to take away any of their thunder :)  I was so excited to keep our secret just for us.  John and I could smile at each other and no one else knew our sweet news just yet.  I bought some big brother books to wrap for Kai for his birthday and we would let everyone find out that way. 

                                               

On Saturday, August 10th in the evening I started spotting.  It's not unusual during pregnancy, so John was sweet and kept encouraging me not to worry about it.  It felt off and yucky and not right to me.  I was headed home Sunday afternoon to help finish up a few last wedding details and by that point it still hadn't stopped but it was very light.  Everything I read online said to call your provider if bleeding is present so I called Monday morning.  I was transferred here and there and everywhere on the phone, until finally I left a message with the midwife nurse line and then all I had to do was wait for the midwife to call back.  She did finally call back and reassure me again that everything sounded fine because I wasn't experiencing heavy bleeding or cramping.  She said our best plan of action was to schedule an ultrasound.  That would be able to tell us if we were losing the baby or if the spotting was normal. If the spotting was normal it would just be considered our "dating ultrasound" to figure out how far along we were. We scheduled it for the next day, so I headed home Monday night.

Tuesday morning came and I was full of nerves and water. I still think asking a pregnant lady to drink 16 oz of water an hour before an ultrasound and then keep it in while the technician pushes her her bladder is crazy. John stayed home to hang out with Kai since still hadn't told any of our family about the pregnancy. I went to my appointment feeling like I was going to pee my pants the whole way. Since I had gone through a dating ultrasound with Kai I knew what I would be looking for. First they did an outer ultrasound, then she let me pee. Sweet relief! Second a transvaginal ultrasound, basically an inner ultrasound to see what's going on in there better. The tech said she had hoped to tell me something either way (if we were miscarrying or if everything looked good). Kai looked like this at his dating ultrasound at 9 weeks. Sweet little gummy bear, kicking and punching with a beautifully visible beating heart! 

                                    

She said they first look for the sac, then fetal pole, fetus and lastly heartbeat. She found the gestational sac and it was an empty, just black and empty. The technician told me that I wasn't even measuring 5 weeks and I knew that wasn't possible. Let's just say the dates didn't line up with what she was telling me. She said the sac was in a great position high up in my uterus and that the midwife would look over the results and get back to me. I appreciated her kind and encouraging words, but still felt defeated. The pregnancy didn't feel right to me and neither did the bleeding.

(Warning: Graphic details ahead.) I got home around lunchtime and John got ready for work. When he left I told him that I was feeling pretty awful. He told me to call if I needed him to come home. I was cramping, nauseous and flu-like. I started to bleed heavier and pass larger and larger clots. I knew something was going on. That continued throughout the day not getting better or worse. Around 7pm I sneezed and felt something come out. It was a feeling I've never felt before. I went to the bathroom and turns out it was the gestational sac, all the tissue that was in there suppose to be making a baby. It was like a tissue blob. I honestly didn't know what to do with. It felt so wrong to throw it away and felt even worse to flush it down the toilet. I didn't know how to properly get rid of it without feeling like I was discarding a child. I felt numb. We ended up burying it in the backyard. That felt weird too, but it was the best solution John and I could come up with. After I passed that my body felt so much better. It was strangly a relief. 

I felt peace about losing the baby although it stung. We wanted him/her! It was possibly a blighted ovum which is a baby that implanted but didn't start forming because of a genetic mutation. I think the biggest hardship was not being able to talk to my mom about it. She is fabulous and would've been great and supportive but I didn't want to bother her or anyone else right before the wedding. (I ended up spilling the beans the morning of the wedding. I know right right?!?! I just couldn't do the day without her knowing.) Wednesday was like any other. I felt a little sore but with Kai consuming all of my energy I got through the day. 

We decided to go to  Bruggers for supper. Nothing like a little food to heal wounds (John got me a DQ blizzard the night before). While we were there the midwife called. She started to tell me how everything from the ultrasound looked good and it was okay that my dates were off. I had to stop her mid sentence to tell her that I had miscarried. She was so very empathetic. I only talk about this part because of the necessity of another Rhogam shot. A Rhogam shot is a shot a pregnant woman has to get before and after her first pregnancy and after every subsequent pregnancy if her blood type is the opposite of her baby's father. It helps her body not to attack the baby if their bloods come in contact with one another. I had one before and after Kai, but it didn't even cross my mind that I'd need one after our miscarriage. I went in for that the following morning bright and early before going to work. A nurse gave me the shot and after that the midwife I'd been talking to brought me back to a room just to see how I was. She gave us the go ahead to not wait to try for another one :) 

We made it through the wedding and the following week I got a care package from the midwife. I cannot rave enough about their personal care. They are the best ever! On August 28 I had a blood test to check my hCG level to make sure the miscarriage was complete and my numbers were good. Now we're praying for Baby #3! 

Please don't hesitate to post questions here or to email me. Thanks again for reading and allowing myself to heal :) 

I've thought of a few more details I wanted to share:

1. In case I didn't remember the miscarriage happened my insurance thought they'd send lots of mail explaining our benefits and what we owed them.

2. I'm thankful for the friends that shared their stories of loss with me before it happened in my life. That's another reason I'm sharing. 

Here's a website for Rhogam FAQs: http://www.rhogam.com/FAQs

Oh Hey, Friday!

Another Friday is here! I love when Friday comes because that means we get John home for two days starting after work. I'm blessed with an incredible husband and I miss him during the week. I think. Kai does too. He's not old enough to understand where daddy is going but on the weekends he knows he hasn't left. If daddy is still in bed on Saturday or Sunday morning Kai will not stay in the living room. He continually crawls to our bedroom until John gets out of bed to play. He loves his daddy! Anyway, again I'm linking up with September Farm and The Farmer's Wife. Check them out :)

{My Five}

{One} Yesterday Kai and I went to the Minnesota Zoo with a friend. We purchased a dual adult membership ($100) in which one adult is named on the card, me.  It allows me to bring any other person with me and Kai is free, so we've gone a handful of times with John and a handful of times I've brought friends.  It's been a very worthwhile investment for us.  Recently the zoo built a carousel and yesterday was Kai's first time riding it.  He did get to ride one in Florida last March but he was sleeping while riding in the Ergo, so that doesn't count.  Man did he LOVE it!  My heart was a mess of happiness just watching him right.  He was smiling ear to ear the whole time.  The only thing I wish was that John was there to see it.  It was the highlight of my week and probably Kai's as well!

{Two} A new development for Kai is tantrums.  Thankfully they're not quite the loud, screaming ones yet, but I have to try not to giggle when they happen.  He starts to throw toys and hit his hands on the floor.  Most of the time it's adorable and this week I've tried hard to communicate with him that I want to understand what is making him upset and I think he's starting to understand that and then he tries to help me understand.  I'm so intrigued about how his little mind is working.  I love that he's becoming a little boy and we're starting to communicate even if it's not verbal quite yet.

{Three}  I've been perusing Craigslist for quite some time for a Little Tikes Climber with a slide.  (I like to search for items on Craigslist often, but this has been my recent en devour.)  They are pretty expensive brand new and some people still want quite a bit for their used ones, so I'd been picky about what I want.  I didn't mind at all that it would be used because Little Tikes products can take a beating, but I knew I didn't want it to look ruined and I didn't want to spend more than $100.  Last Sunday one popped up for $60 and the picture made it look great, but it was taken apart already, so it was a little hard to picture what it would look like set up.  I emailed the poster right away.  We emailed back and forth a few times, agreed on $50 and John and I went right over to pick it up.  Kai loves it although he's still figuring it out.  I had to put a stool behind it to help him get up, but I know next year he will love it!  I am so happy that we found one!

{Four}  Tomorrow is the Open House at my in-laws garden center.  I always enjoy spending the day there and seeing all the people.  John grills hot dogs and we just do what we can to help.  (Feel free to stop by for free lunch!  Here's the address:  Midwest Garden Company 21392 CSAH 18 Dassel, MN  55325.  It's easy to spot from Highway 15.)  I hope Kai decides he's going to have a happy day and encourage all the customers to buy lots :)  Thankfully my parents live less than a mile away so Kai and I can sneak away for a nap or two if we need to.  It should be a fun time full of lots of sales on plants and anything garden related!  I'll try to post a photo on Instagram (emhammar) of all of us wearing our Midwest Garden Company shirts :)

{Five}  Chicken Corn Chowder.  This recipe from Freetime Frolics was delicious!  It was a bit time consuming and hard with a toddler clinging to my leg, but it was worth it.  It could have been a bit easier if my chicken was already cooked or if I used canned/frozen corn instead of off the ear sweet corn.  I felt like a true wonderful wife serving it because I worked hard and it was delicious. 

Do you have a worthwhile memberships to have with toddlers? What are your best Craigslist finds? Random question becuas I've been contemplating a very personal post... Where do you draw the line on what you share on your blog or on social media?  

Thanks for stopping! Check back Monday for Hopes and Plans!

To My 27th Year

I've been participating in the Oh Hey, Friday link-up from September Farm and The Farmer's Wife for about a month.  I assume that the purpose of a link-up is to find other blogs to read and relate to, so every week I make an effort to read and comment on a few of the submitted posts.  One I stumbled across last week was Amanda's blog Marry Mint.  She's adorable, has an adorable little lady and hosts a Monday link-up called Hopes and Plans.  I'm not sure if I'll participate every week, but anyone who knows me well knows I love lists.  A few possible blog posts came to mind right away and they are easy ones to be held accountable and updated on, so I thought I'd give it a try.  Check her out and check in here on Monday's for Hopes and Plans :)

I'm dedicating my first Hopes and Plans blog to my 27th year. I turned 27 last Wednesday, so I've got a full 52 weeks and 12 months to fill with love, laughter and happiness.  Bring it on 27!

1. Use Less Technology - Oddly enough I've been thinking about this for a while and our sermon on Saturday night touched on it.  After Kai is down for the night I've been known to be sitting in front of the TV, playing a game on my iPad and having a texting conversation.  Thinking about that makes me a little sick to my stomach.  I was on the front of the cell phone era, so I didn't even have one until I was off to college.  I'm honestly embarrassed to even write about some of the tangible ways I'm going to limit use because they show how much I really use it :( 
     I will not be using or bringing my cell phone into the bedroom at night.  I keep using the excuse that I only use it to tell the time, but I play games/read/check email and Instagram before I go to sleep.  I know it's not good for my sleep to do that and since Kai still refuses to sleep through the night I need all the help I can get.  I will make a charging station on our kitchen island and it will always be put there when I go to bed.  I will move my watch that has a light to my nightstand or walk to the kitchen so I can see what time it is when Kai wakes up.
     Since I should be savoring John and Kai when we're all home I will also put my phone in it's resting spot from 6pm on.  If I get a text I will allow myself to answer it, but I can't move it from there after 6pm.
     I don't plan to be quite as strict about this one because sometimes a girl just needs some mindless iPad games after Kai has gone to bed, but I will consciously decide that playing games is better than (or all I can handle) my other options like crafting, reading or just enjoying whatever TV show we're watching. 
     I'll see how these play out and possible add more as the year goes on...

2. Bake My Little Heart Out - I've baked a few times in the past few months and I've found that I enjoy it!  The main reason I don't bake is because I love sweets and they're not John's favorite so I end up eating them all, like them all.  I could eat cookies/ice cream/muffins until I'm sick.  One of the Instagram accounts I follow talked about baking and gifting her goods to neighbors, friends, her husband's coworkers and I got to thinking... hey I can do that!  I don't have a "how many times" I have to bake in the next year, but I do want to do it more.  Since last year there wasn't much baking going on over here, baking a couple times in the next year will be great! 

3. Take Advantage of Snail Mail - I love getting snail mail and I've never met anyone who doesn't, so I'm going to make sure I write one or two handwritten notes each month.  I have a list of people I know would like to get a letter, so I'll work from that.  Let me know if you need some snail mail :)

4. No Picking -I've had this goal about fifteen trillion million billion times and it has never stuck.  I've been a picker ever since high school.  I pick my face to the point that I have scabs and I know it's not healthy.  I pick "zits" that don't even exist.  I pick with I'm anxious, sad, upset and plain bored.  I don't want Kai to grow up thinking that it's ok to see flaws in him that don't exist.  I don't want him to think it's good to pick at existing acne or zits.  It's plain not good for my skin or his.  I have no idea how I'm going to battle this and honestly I've already broken it a bunch of times since last Wednesday, but maybe having it on my blog will hold me accountable.  I just want the habit to stick the other way - no picking.

5. Church - I love going to worship at church and during Kai's first year of life we didn't make it there often.  I was anxious about leaving him in the nursery and then when we did he cried the whole time.  My goal this year is to get there more often.  I feel so full after going and I'm so thankful for the blessings God has given me.  

6. See a Friend - My head and my heart are full after spending time with friends and I hope my friends feel the same.  I know that it's an integral part of taking care of myself so I need to make time for it.  It's a double plus when those friends have kiddos for Kai to play with.  He gets some socialization and I feel good about that too.  I know I need to do this at least once a week, if it happens more great and if I go a week here and there without that's ok.  I just want to remember that it is extremely important for me. I may also join a Moms Group at our church but I haven't decided about that yet.  I'm torn between building new relationships and cultivating the ones I already have.

7. Go Walking/Exploring - Kai and I need exercise and we need adventure.  I'm going to try and brainstorm a list of places we've never visited and knock them off one by one in the coming year.  The list will be it's own post!

8. Savor - I want to take time to savor life, take time to drink in the moment, time to truly experience the beauty in life and in my little family.  I want to fully embrace all of Kai, all of John and all life has.  I know some days won't be great, but I want to continually be taking everything in, not running for my camera to capture the moment.  I want to build memories without having something to remind me.  I don't want to give John or Kai any leftovers of myself instead live the hours I'm awake to the fullest. 

Here's to 27!

Oh Hey, Friday!

As always I'm linking up with September Farm and Farmer's Wife, click the icon at the bottom to check them out :)

{My Five}

{One} Tonight John and I get to go on a date!  We've been out together without Kai maybe three times since he was born (I know, not great for our relationship!) so I'm pumped for tonight.  We're celebrating my birthday so I got to pick the place and decided on Fujiya. I am oh so excited to stuff my face with delectable raw fish and maki rolls I can pack in.  I will definitely try not to late afternoon snack today!  My mouth is watering just thinking about it...  John said I can choose what we do for our weekend too.  Not sure yet what sounds fun. My birthday was actually on Wednesday and it was delightful.  I got to snuggle with my boy, meet my mom for coffee (Caribou offers a free medium drink for birthdays!), have Chipotle for supper and watch the season premiere of The League.  Here's to a great 27th year!


{Two} My sweet youngest sister got crowned Dassel Ambassador last Saturday night!  I couldn't be more proud of her. When I ran I lost, so she said I could borrow her crown sometime.  What are sister's for? :)

{Three} So The League premiered on my birthday which was a treat.  It is honestly one of my favorite shows.  It's about a group of high school friends (and one of their wives) who are in a fantasy football league together.  The humor isn't for everyone, but holy buckets does it get me rolling sometimes.  I remember nursing Kai as an itty bitty newborn and he was just vibrating because I was laughing so hard.  Seasons 1-5 are on Netflix and John and I have watched them over and over again.

{Four} To make The League and the NFL season a little bit more fun this year I joined John's friends Fantasy Football League.  Truthfully someone dropped out and they needed a tenth player.  I jokingly told John I'd love to join and on draft night he came home having drafted two teams instead of one.  He did a pretty good job, but I totally feel like I have something to prove since it's me and nine other guys competing.  Week One started last night, so we'll see how this goes.

{Five} I'm going to try and end on a funny note.  Kai hasn't been feeling the best this week, but we've also been trying to wean him off of nighttime nursing.  I'm so tired of getting up at all hours.  I'm fine if he eats after 4am because he'll go back to sleep.  If he eats earlier than that he wants to get up at 6am and this momma can't handle that.  It was midnight on Tuesday and he was screaming.  He's smart and he has us wrapped around his little finger.  We were trying to help him settle down, but nothing was really working and we figured it was his cough and stuffed nose bothering him.  He kept reaching for the nightstand so I was handing him everything one by one and he was pushing everything away.  Finally I handed him a breast pad (I have to put one in on the side he isn't feeding on still because I would be soaking wet if I didn't, sorry TMI) and he put it into my shirt.  I thought maybe it was an accident, so I put it back on the nightstand and we did the same little song and dance again.  Can this kid seriously be so smart?  I feel bad that sometimes I don't think I give him enough credit.  Good grief baby boy.  I love him to death.  After I was stunned by his intelligence he got what he wanted and slept until 6am.  I should have told him all I wanted for my birthday was a good night's sleep.

 

 Thanks for reading!

Oh Hey, Friday!

It's another Friday and I honestly almost forgot to post.  Here I am though, so here it goes :)

My Five

{One} Kai took his first steps two days ago and a few more yesterday and today!  I'm one proud momma!  He has one week to be prepared to walk down the aisle at Auntie Hannah and Uncle Ethan's wedding though.  Can't say I believe that's going to happen.  He's going to be darn cute in his little suit though!

{Two} Last weekend we went to Ikea and there was a tent/tunnel that Kai fell in love with!  He was crawling back and forth and even pushed an older kid out of his way so he could get though (we'll have to work on that!) After that I thought it would be a stellar birthday gift.  I remembered seeing one at TJMaxx, so off I went to purchase it.  It's this model.  Feels a little flimsy, but we don't plan on going camping with it, so it's great for us.  I also couldn't wait until his birthday so it's in our living room right now and Kai is loving it and the dog has been sleeping in it.  It's fabulous!

{Three} I've been working on being a better wife.  Sometimes I get wrapped up in being Kai's mom that I forget that being John's wife is equally if not more important.  My relationship with Jesus comes first, then John then Kai.  I just feel like I've been slacking in loving John well, so I'm working on a list of tangible things to do.  I am planning to keep that list in a place I see it so I can hold myself accountable.  Maybe I'll share some of them if I have some free time :)

{Four} I made these muffins and used this acorn squash recipe this week.  Of course I added chocolate chips into the muffins.  Both recipes were winners. Oh how I'm longing for fall.

{Five} I'm in the market for a wrap baby carrier and/or a ring sling type carrier.  I'm not sure if I should make one or if I should just support another momma on Etsy or go cheap and buy a used one on eBay.  I'm at a loss.  I've done a lot of research and still can't decide.  Any suggestions would be awesome!

Two weeks in a row, here's to hoping I post next week as well :)  Until then, have a wonderful week!

Three Months.

Hey Little Goober,

Happy three months!  You are so amazing.  I can't believe you're mine sometimes.  You're so lucky to be surrounded by so much love from your grandparents and aunties and uncles.  You are so loved.  I can't give you enough kisses or hugs.  You smell so good.  I'm trying to take all of you in because I know how much you've changed in the past three months and I know it is just going to continue.  I love your chubby cheeks and round tummy and bald spot :) Thanks for all your beautiful smiles that I get during the day.  You're perfect.    

Height & Weight:  Two weeks ago you weighed 12 lbs 13 oz, so I'm sure you're above 13 lbs how.  I anticipate you will have doubled your birth weight by four months.  Way to go pal!  I'm not sure how tall you are but I can tell you're growing because your clothes are fitting better, even some getting too small.

Health: You had your first cold, lots of snot and sniffles.  Poor little guy!  You did get to sleep with us in our bed though :)  Thankfully it was short-lived and you were back to normal in no time.

Sleep:  Still nothing consistent.  Last week was awful and you were up again every two hours in the night.  Thankfully that was also only about a week long and it's gotten better this week.  You're naps are still short, but hopefully you get one good one during the day.  We start your bedtime routine sometime between 7-7:30.  We do bath time, pjs, snuggles with daddy and your last meal :)

Diet:  Milk is your favorite.

Clothes:  You are wearing anything between 3mo and 6mo.  I have to keep going through the bigger clothes to make sure we're not missing any that fit.  There was a 6-9mo onesie that you've already grown out of.  I have discovered that baby clothing sizes are a complete joke.  It's annoying, but I just have to make sure I stay on top of it for you.  You grew out of the homemade and newborn cloth diapers! 

Baby Gear Love:  Your gym is still a favorite.  It has toys hanging all over it.  You adore your Oball!  Your daddy and I are planning to get you another one for Christmas so one can go on your gym and one on your carseat.  When we were out running errands this weekend you napped while holding your Oball.  Our cloth diapers are still wonderful.  I've been using cloth wipes too (most of them I made) and the first no waste diaper change and that made me feel fabulous :)  He has started to like his Johnny Jump Up. 

Likes:  Taking Baths while singing songs with daddy, dancing and singing with mommy, putting anything and everything in your mouth and talking.

Dislikes:  When you can't get something close enough to put it in your mouth, when you get overtired, big noises (barking, sneezing)

Social:  You are so smiley and talkative.  We are loving it!  You have had lengthy conversations with your grandmas and grandpas too.  They were so excited about it!         

Milestones:  You are getting so sturdy, holding your head up and using your legs.  I also know now that you really know daddy's voice because when he comes home from work you look around for him.  You are starting to blow spit bubbles. 

Nicknames:  Daddy still calls you Boomer, but I've moved to Goober and every form of the word.  

Kai's Birth Story

I knew going into pregnancy that I'd want to document all of it with photos, blogs, notes, everything I could. I wrote down a lot of details about our pregnancy and I want to be able to tell Kai about his time in his baby palace if he wants to know about it. I kept this blog because I didn't want to forget anything. If we only have two kids (which is our plan currently) then I want to cherish every little thing! Kai is such a miracle and so was his birth.

It was Thursday, August 22, 2013 and I was at work playing with Miss B. It was my last planned day with her so I was really trying to enjoy it. I had some cramping the night before, but hadn't thought much of it because I didn't want to be disappointed again if it wasn't actual labor. At 2:15pm I had my first “contraction”. I would call the “contraction” a cramp, nothing more than menstrual cramps that didn't stop when I changed positions. They lasted a minute on average. For some reason I started keeping track of them but they weren't regular. I ended up having eight in the last two hours I was at work. Lindsay came home and I left, called John on my way home just to let him know what was going on. I didn't want to tell anyone else because I really wasn't sure I was in true labor. I got gas in the CRV on the way home, just in case :) Between the time I left work and the time John got home I only have a few “contractions”, but nothing regular or painful.

When John got home I told him everything that had been happening. We decided to treat the day like any other. I knew I didn't want to be sitting at home wondering if this was actually happening.  I wanted to relax as much as possible and enjoy the evening with John and Comet (possibly our last). We decided to go for a walk at Normandale, our two mile path. It was maybe too much, but my body was used to doing it during pregnancy, so I thought it would be fine. When we got there and I got out of the car I had my first real surge, more than a simple cramp. I leaned on the seat in our car and swayed.  After it was finished I remember just getting going on our walk. John was so calm through the whole process as it happened. We talked while we walked and I had six more contractions before we were done. With each one I leaned over and swayed.  I'm sure John will say this, but I was still not ready to acknowledge that I was in true labor. I remember telling John that it was so neat how my body was working. The “contraction” started, built, lasted for a little while and went away and I felt back to my normal self. It was so awesome to me. God made my body to go through labor. I loved it. On our way home we picked up some supper, I got Chipotle and John got Noodles. I had another one while we were on our way home, but they slowed when we got home and ate.

After we ate they returned very regularly, about every 10 minutes, lasting a minute each. We watched tv for an hour or two and I tried to relax. Around 9:30pm I took a bath and decided to get in bed to try and sleep. My contractions started to come every 6.5 minutes and still were lasting one minute. John called the hospital to say that we would be coming at some point. He also called both of our mommas to let them know what was up. I think John and I both anticipated being at home for a while. I knew that I wanted to labor at home as long as possible. John was so wonderful at this point and after he made his phone calls he packed up the can in preparation. I was snuggled up in my pregnancy pillow and poof my water broke at 10:40pm. I wasn't anticipating it happening at home because my mom's didn't with any of us. I heard a “pop” and it was a huge gush of water.  I won't ever forget it, so weird. Right after my water broke my contractions went from 6.5 minutes apart to averaging 4 minutes apart. Some were even closer and happening back to back. The intensity was crazy! They went from tolerable to incredibly intense.  At this point John took over as I couldn't really focus on anything but what was happening within me. He told me to get ready and get into the car. I got dressed and said goodbye to Comet. I was sad to leave Comet because he looked scared. He didn't know what was going on. Poor little guy!  With that we were on our way to the hospital!

John's driving amazed me at this point. He was so focused on getting us to the hospital. As we were driving he called the hospital to tell them we were coming and they tried to tell us they were on divert and we'd have to go to another hospital. He was very adamant, even a bit aggressive with whoever he was talking to. I was touched by how protective he was of me. He was getting me into Methodist. Turns out they had saved us a spot because we'd called earlier, but we were the last couple to be admitted that night.  We walked in and made our way to the elevator. I had a few contractions on the way which caused me to pause and bend over. We ended up in a crowded elevator which was so uncomfortable. I couldn't wait to get to the 3^rd floor. They checked us into a triage room at about 11:45pm. I felt like we waited forever in that room. My contractions were so intense. I believe this was when I started to utilize my voice. I always thought it was a little funny when we made noise during yoga but I was a noisy lady during labor! After Kai was born a visitor told me that laboring women have a “song” they sing and that was exactly how John described it.

In the triage room we first saw a nurse.  She took my vitals and hooked me up to a baby monitor because we intended on having a water birth. They needed a continuous read of the baby for twenty minutes in order for us to deliver in the water. We then saw the midwife. I was excited to see a midwife I'd had for appointments. She checked my progress and boy did that hurt! I was entirely unaware how painful it would be. I remember that I started sobbing at that point. I was already 5cm and 100% effaced. I didn't know whether to feel good about that or scared that it might take me a lot longer to get to 10cm. I certainly didn't feel bad about it because I knew my body was doing something. After that we finally got moved to our room. I had two contractions on the way and I remember not even trying to be quiet in the hallway. Amy (our midwife) did such a great job putting pressure on my low back and hips and John whispered to me to tell me I could do it.

Once we made it to our room I got into the tub. It was too hot and it made me sweat. I couldn't find a way to hold myself in place when I had contractions. I felt like the tub was too big for me. I knew I couldn't utilize the tub, so I got out and moved to the bed. I labored on my side for a lot of this time period because it was easiest for me to relax in that position during breaks. I remember wanting to tell John and the midwife to be quiet because they were making small talk. The nurse continually moved the monitor that was placed on the baby and it was so uncomfortable. I wanted to tell her to quit because she always moved it during my break between contractions, so she was causing more pain than necessary I thought. As my contractions continued to increase in intensity I continued to “sing”. I remember being incredibly loud and John said he'll vouch for that :) There was a turning point that scared me sometime around 3am. (During labor I had no concept of time, but I'm pretty sure this is a close estimate after talking to John) The midwife had checked me a half hour earlier and I was already 9cm dilated. I remember that being encouraging! Not long after that check my “singing” turned into low moaning. The first time it happened I was shocked because my body did it instinctively. I honestly don't recall having any control over my tonal change. After Kai came John said at this point the nurse paged our midwife urgently telling her to come back asap.

Amy came back and checked me again and I was 9.5cm, so she pushed back my cervix so I could start pushing. This was at 3:30am, which I also found out later on. At this point I started to push. They were great about helping me switch positions to push, but moving for me was very difficult. My body was trying to conserve every bit of energy I had and I did my best to rest between contractions. The surges were coming very close together and sometimes they came right after each other. I pushed on my sides, my back, hands and knees and squatting. John said that almost right after I started pushing he could see Kai's head and all his dark hair :) I pushed and pushed and pushed and pushed and pushed. During this time I was completely within myself. I rarely answered anyone's questions and the only word I uttered regularly was, “Water,” so John would give me a drink. I was nauseous a lot of the time and thought I'd throw up, kept tasting my Chipotle (won't eat that next time!). At 6:30am (still pushing) I rolled over and looked out the window and it was light out. I said, “Holy shit, it's light outside!” Everyone laughed.  As I pushed I remember the nurse and Amy continually telling me that I was so close. I don't remember when but there seemed to be events happening that made me feel close, but Kai still didn't come. Amy put her delivery scrubs on, a cart with extra medical supplies was rolled in, a different nurse said she was going to sit at the end of the bed while Amy rushed out for sometime in case the baby came. I remember being so frustrated because I was pushing with all I had and didn't know how much I had left. At 7am the shift change happened and we got two new nurses and a whole load of new energy. They were so energetic and I really feel it was a great change for me! Each nurse took one leg to help me push, while John continued to be a rock for me up by my head telling me it was going to be okay. It only took forty more minutes to push him out after that. I got to pull him up onto my chest. Turns out he was sunny side up, the wrong way, which is why it took me so long to push him out. Poor little man came out with a bit of a conehead and a huge bruise from continually hitting my pelvic bone. John said the first thing I uttered was, “Little peanut, my sweet little man."  

He is my sweet, perfect, handsome, wonderful little man.

Two Months.

Dear Boo Boo Bear,

You are two months old!  Holy buckets!  I can't believe how big you've gotten and how much you've learned.  Keep growing big and strong and learning new things every day!  I love you so much!  I'm challenged by you every day and night, but this is by far the most rewarding experience of my life.  I look forward to many more days smiling and talking to each other, teaching you and snuggling you.  Just so you know I'd be thankful if you slept a little more at night :) 

Height & Weight:  At your 2-month appointment yesterday weighed 11 lbs 1 oz (20th%) and were 22 inches long (11th%).  The doctor said you're doing perfect :)

Health: You are a healthy, growing boy.  At your appointment you had to get two shots and an oral medicine.  It was so hard to see you cry, but you got through it like a champ!

Sleep:  Nothing consistant.  You are still pretty good at sleeping in your crib at night, but you are struggling to sleep there during the day.  Sometimes I let you nap in your swing so you at least sleep.  You've gotten better though, so I'm sure you're moving in the right direction. 

Diet:  You love milk.

Clothes:  You are wearing 0-3 month clothing.  I finally packed away all your newborn clothes.  It was sad to put them away, but you might have a baby brother or baby boy cousin someday, so they'll get more use.  You're 3 month clothing looks like the newborn clothing did on you when you were brand new, super big :)

Baby Gear Love:  You still love your play gym.  Recently you've starting loving being rolled around on mommy's exercise ball, helps you with tummy pains.  We've started using our other cloth diapers and I'm very happy with them.  We have some Fuzzibunz Perfect Size Small, some BumGenius 4.0, some Flip Covers and Inserts and a few from a WAHM.  You love looking at the Sheep Mobile that Grandma Sue made for you while you're hanging out in your crib.  We were able to borrow this swing from friends and Kai loves it!

Likes:  Taking Baths, Tummy Time, Kisses from Comet, Smiling at Mommy and Daddy and using your swing. 

Dislikes:  Napping in your crib and diaper changes at night.

Social:  You are cooing and smiling at us!  You rub your eyes just like your daddy when you're tired.          

Milestones:  Your neck is getting very strong and you can hold your head up for a little while when you're laying on your tummy.

Nicknames: Boomer and Boo Boo Bear have been the favorites recently. 

One Month!

Happy One Month to you baby boy!  It's been a struggle some days, but boy do I love you! 

Height & Weight:  He weighed 7lb 13oz at three weeks and 8lbs 6oz the day after one month.  He's a big, growing boy :)  We don't have to go back to the pediatrician until two months, so I'll have some measurements next month.

Health:  The first week of Kai's life he dealt with high levels of bilirubin in his blood.  Bilirubin is the product in the blood that makes the yellow part of bruises.  Since pushing took me and the babe so long and he came out sunnyside up he had a huge bruise on his head.  Older people are able to process bilirubin, but newborns are not because their livers are underdeveloped.  If it's not taken care of it can cause numerous problems neurologically.  With that said he had an eventful first week.  He had blood taken at the hospital and then each day for three days after we were home to check his levels.  Poor guy had so many marks on his heals.  His levels were so high he had to have a "bili" blanket.  Poor little guy!  He was a champ and didn't mind it.  We worked hard together feeding/eating/staying on the light and got him off of it within 24 hours!  The home health nurse said that's phenomenal. Other than that Kai is a healthy little man!

Kai hooked up to his "bili" blanket.

Sleep:  Kai usually wakes up twice per night every 2.5-4.5 hours.  He is already sleeping in his crib, seems to like it better than the basinet. Thankfully he did so well with the transition because it helps me sleep so much better!

Diet:  Kai is a milk recovery expert (John's nickname after watching Gold Rush).  He is a wonderful eater!  Breastfeeding has not been easy at all, but I'll write an entire post about that :)

Clothes:  He is still wearing all newborn clothing.  It's amazing how tiny the clothing is.  We have no socks that fit him, they are like bags on his feet.  John had to go out to Carter's to pick up a few more outfits because we didn't have enough items that fit him in the beginning.  He is getting bigger though, so I think we'll be moving up in sizes in a few weeks!

Baby Gear Love:  He loves laying in his play gym, listening to the music and looking at the animals. (We have this one.)  I'm very thankful for that gift.  I have been using some Lil' Joey's infant cloth diapers on and off.  A friend lent them to us and they've been great.  It's been a nice, gradual step into cloth diapers.  I can't wait to start using our other dipes :)

Likes:  Snuggling on daddy's warm chest, singing/listening/dancing to music with mommy, his brother Comet, going for walks and making noise.

Dislikes:  Napping in his crib, waiting for food and when his mom takes too long giving him a bath. 

Social:  Kai is smiling at us!  It's such a wonderful feeling!  It's great to see him recognize our voices too.  He knows my voice and his daddy's voice.  He turns his head in the direction of the voices he's hearing.  He's been trying to mimic John's facial expressions as well.      

Milestones: He's smiling.  He follows objects with his eyes.  He can move his head back and forth while on his stomach.  He eats, sleeps and poops, which is typical newborn behavior :)

Nicknames: Boomer, Kai Bo, Baby Boo Boo, Milk Recovery Expert

thirty-nine weeks.

Date/How Far Along: August 19, 2013 = 39 weeks and 2 days.  Five days until our Guess Date and no more than nineteen days until Baby Hammar is here! 

Size of baby:  Baby Averages at 39 Weeks: 18.9-20.9 inches long and 6.2-9.2 pounds.  The site I've been using gives the same averages from last week until forty weeks.  He'll come out soon enough and we'll know how big he is.  The midwife that I saw on Friday said she estimated he was somewhere around high 6 lb to low 7 lb.  I'm an completely happy with that! 

Sleep:  Sleep is different night to night.  Last night seemed really great, but it could've been because I was up at 6:15 and didn't nap.  I am still having to pee at least twice per night and it's getting harder to pull myself up to sitting from laying down.  All too soon I'll be up every 2-3 hours to feed him, so it's good I'm getting partly used to waking up now.     

Total Weight Gain:  I didn't gain any weight at my last appointment, so still I'm almost up thirty pounds total.  I have another appointment Thursday if we go that far, so we'll see then.  Apparently it's not unusual to lose weight right before delivery.   

Symptoms:  We were almost ready to start timing contractions last night.  We went for a walk and I had three strong surges, but still that would only put them about twenty minutes apart.  Our regular walking path is two miles and it now takes me an hour to waddle around the whole thing.  I started experiencing an extreme pressure in my pelvic area too.  I was scared and excited all at the same time.  During/after our walk my body continued to feel like I was getting my period.  I had a few contractions after I got home and John even commented that with one I was standing in the position he had read about (leaning on a chair a little hunched over).  We were so hopeful!  I took a bath and we both went to bed.  Nothing and now I'm sitting at work while Miss B is napping writing my 39 week blog.  So nothing yet.     

Movement:  He has slowed down during some parts of the day.  He usually naps after I have lunch, but he's very active after I eat supper.  He is still so strong and the movements lower in my abdomen are crazy hard.  In the tub last night it looked like I had an alien in my stomach or something.  It's such a miraculous event to watch for me.  It's probably one of the (only) things I'll miss about being pregnant :)

Maternity Clothes:  Yup.  It's a bummer too because some of the athletic clothes that I've been relying on are just plain too tight and uncomfortable now.  I finally started wearing a different pair of pants to yoga just last week because my Nike capris were getting too tight.  I guess I should be pretty happy I made it until 38.5 weeks in pre-pregnancy pants.  I'm still wearing pre-pregnancy yoga pants today too.  I'm hoping they shrink back down after he comes out because I love these ones.

Go-to eats:   I can't say I've had too many strong cravings.  I'm still remembering how good my salad was at Cheesecake Factory and on Saturday night John and I went to El Loro to eat spicy Mexican food to try and coax the baby out :)

Best moment/s of the week:  It was a slow/relaxing week.  My family came on Saturday to help us paint the exterior of our house (yes, at 39 weeks we painted the outside of our house), so it feels great to have that done.  I went on a walk with a friend on Friday and that was nice too.  Yesterday John and I did a lot of relaxing, which was so good for both of us.   

Hardest moment/s of the week:  I'm still sometimes discouraged with labor signs that seem to lead no wear.  Last night's episode of false labor was the hardest.  I just hope he's ready and he comes soon, even though it's just as likely that he comes the week after his due date.

Gender:  Our little boy will be here SO SOON!

What I wish people knew:  It's hard when people keep saying "He'll come when he's ready."  (Please don't feel bad if you've said this to me!)  I understand that logically, but it's very hard to find comfort in that when I feel as crummy as I do.  He will come when he's ready and I'll be happy when it's time!

What I’m looking forward to:  Having this baby!  (This category is not going to change until he comes!)

Milestones:  You are preparing for birth!  Bring it on babe!  I'm ready when you are, so is your daddy!

 

Week 22 and Week 38.5

To check out my growing bump click here :)

A Letter to My Little One

Dear Sweet Baby Boy,

You were wanted before you were ever conceived!  Your daddy and I have dreamed of having little ones of our own someday and we're so thankful to be so close to meeting you!  We will do our very best to care for you, teach you, laugh with you, cry with you and love you.  You are already so loved little guy, so loved!  I don't want you to ever forget that!

Just so you know, you have the most incredible big brother and I hope you grow up thinking that!  He is going to smother you with kisses and love.  We are pretty sure he'll be very protective of you and he will allow you to crawl all over him if you will share your toys.  He can't wait until you're big enough to play fetch and go on walks with him.  As you get older we know he will be able to teach you what love is.  He loves your daddy and I no matter what.  I'm sure you'll love seeing him when we come home from places because he's always excited to see us.  I know you're already used to his barking because you've heard it a lot while you've been living in your baby palace inside me.  We can't wait for you to meet Comet!  You will love him!  I hope you guys are best friends :)

The next person I want to tell you about is your daddy.  He is the best.  He is elated that you're coming, dubing you The Dragon Warrior from the beginning.  I'm sure you both will have many viewing parties of Kung Fu Panda, it's one of his favorites.  I hope you grow up thinking he's a superhero because he totally is.  He works really hard for our family and that's why I get to stay home with you after you come.  He is very smart and he'll teach you what he knows and learn with you the things he doesn't know.  There are times when he will have you laughing and not even remembering what you're laughing about.  He hopes that you like hockey as much as he does so you can share that bond, but I promise there's no pressure (well maybe a tiny bit).  He likes to rub my belly and talk to you and you always respond, so I know you know his voice.  He talks about how excited he is to snuggle you and show you new places and things.  As we were walking yesterday he was talking about babywearing you around our usual path.  You will always have a special place in his heart as his firstborn.  He can't wait to experience life through your eyes.  I bet you'll be just as handsome as he is!

Lastly, there's me, your momma.  I can't really begin to explain how it's been to carry you for the past 39 weeks.  You truly are a blessing to me and it has been a priviledge to help you grow.  I hope to continue to help you grow and to nurture you after you make your debut into the world.  It has been emotional to be pregnant, but I would never trade that for getting you in the end.  I love to feel you kick and move and respond to my voice or touch.  I can't wait to snuggle you in my arms.  I hope you love to snuggle and Comet will be thankful I'm not forcing him to snuggle all the time.  I can't wait to witness all your "firsts" from yawn to hiccups to words to steps to solid foods.  It's just so incredible to me that your daddy and I get to be there for all of your accomplishments and even your disappointments.  Please know that I will always love you no matter what.  I will promise to be always be in your corner even if it doesn't seem like it.  You are my firstborn.  I love you.

 
Sweet babe, remember that daddy and I will always love you no matter what.  We will be here for you to the best of our abilities.  We can't wait to watch you experience new things and grow to have preferences.  We want to love you and take care of you.  We thank God every day for you sweet boy and pray that you grow up knowing Him and following His plan for you.  Hope to meet you so soon!

Love, Momma   

thirty-eight weeks.

Date/How Far Along: August 12, 2013 = 38 weeks and 2 days.  Twelve days until our Guess Date and no more than twenty-six days until Baby Hammar is here! 

Size of baby:  Baby Averages at 38 Weeks: 18.9-20.9 inches long and 6.2-9.2 pounds.  The site I've been using gives the same averages from last week until forty weeks.  He'll come out soon enough and we'll know how big he is. 

Sleep:  I feel like I haven't had to pee quite as much in the past week.  I am usually up twice, but it's rarely over three times per night.  I'm having more trouble finding a comfortable position to sleep in at this point.  The bump is just hard to work around.  I took a few naps last week and that helped to give me a bit more energy, but it doesn't usually change the time I'm ready for bed. 

Total Weight Gain:  I was at 162.4 at my appointment last Friday, so almost 30 pounds totally.  I'm still not experiencing much if any water retention so that feels good.  The nurse I always see continually comments on my ankles.  I should really tell her thank you for the boost in my mood whenever I hear her compliments :) 

Symptoms:  I felt a little off yesterday.  I've been having more cramping that doesn't feel like contractions, but I'd like to think it's a sign of early labor.  I'm just ready to birth this little guy.  I still have regular stabbing pains in my groin area/pressure down there that feels like the baby might fall out, so that's pleasant especially out in public.  Thankfully I haven't had anyone ask what's wrong while I'm half squatting with my legs flexed in the middle of Cub foods.    

Movement:  It hasn't changed a bit as far as intensity.  He only slows down when he's napping.  I've been feeling more and more movement down lower in my pelvis though.  My whole family was over on Friday night for pizza and he decided to be really active for them which was so much fun.  They were surprised how strong he is.  Hannah and Caite didn't really take their hands off my stomach for a half hour, even Caleb and his girlfriend Jessi felt him.  I love when other people experience what I get to feel on a daily basis.  It'll be so much fun when my siblings have little ones of their own.  

Maternity Clothes: Nothing more to say that yup :) and I have no shame. 

Go-to eats:   I satisfied my Alfredo craving last week and it was delicious!  I haven't really wanted anything specific lately.  I've just eaten our normal foods.  I did take out some ravioli for supper tonight.  I've read that carbo-loading for labor and delivery just like I did for the marathon is a good idea, so I'll probably try to have a few extra Italian meals over the next few weeks.   

Best moment/s of the week:  Great yoga last Wednesday.  Spending Friday with my mom.  She cried at my midwife appointment when she heard his heartbeat :)  While we were at Target a lady with an eight week old and I got to exchange compliments.  It was reassuring to me to see that she honestly looked thin and great for two months postpartum!  The rest of my family joined us for supper at our house on Friday night and that was great.  We all got to meet Erin and Ryan's new pup Charlie.  Yesterday John and I had a wonderful, relaxing day together.  We had Cheesecake Factory for lunch and took Comet on a four mile walk.  It has been a great week! 

Hardest moment/s of the week:  Dealing with pre-labor symptoms that really seem to mean nothing as far as a timeline, but at least they mean we're moving in the right direction. 

Gender:  We're having ourselves a little man!

What I wish people knew:  We're still so thankful for support.  We're thankful for family and friends who we know will be there if we need anything after the babe is born.  We're lucky to have such an incredible support system. 

What I’m looking forward to:  Having this baby!  (This category is not going to change until he comes!)

Milestones:  You are preparing for birth!  Bring it on babe!  I'm ready when you are, so is your daddy!

   

To check out my growing bump click here :)

thirty-seven weeks.

Date/How Far Along: August 6, 2013 = 37 weeks and 3 days.  Eighteen days until our Guess Date and no more than thirty-two days until Baby Hammar is here!

Size of baby:  Watermelon (See photo below)  Baby Averages: 18.9-20.9 inches long and 6.2-9.2 pounds.

Sleep: I've had to pee so much in the night, but I also drink lots of water before and while I'm sleeping.  It seems to keep my leg cramps at bay, so I'm not going to change that.  I'm still tired most of the time, but it's not going to change once he comes :) 

Total Weight Gain:  At my appointment last Friday I was 160.8 so I think that means I've gained 27 pounds total.  I can't remember if I started at 133.6 or .8.  Since I only have a few weeks left I hope that means only a little more weight gained.  I have appointments with the midwife every week up until he comes, so I'll have an update every week. 

Symptoms:  John is still being a gentleman and helps me get out of chairs or off the floor where I choose to put on my socks and shoes.  I've still been having a lot of groin pain and lots of pressure down there, which is apparently normal because he should be moving down.  I've been having Braxton Hicks contractions as well.  Thankfully my uterus is practicing :)      

Movement:  So much stretching and he is STRONG!  His feet stick out on my right side that it feels like I'm going to burst open.  It's crazy.  I love knowing when he's awake and when he's sleeping.  He is very active at night after I eat supper.  I'm worried that I'm going to feel sad that he won't be inside me anymore.  I'm ready to stop feeling heavy and sore, but I think I'm going to have to babywear a lot!

Maternity Clothes:  Yup.  My athletic clothes are starting to get tight.  I've been wearing these "Simbad" pants, as John calls them.  They are actually pre-pregnancy pants from Victoria's Secret.  I think they're meant to be a swimsuit cover-up.  I got a robe to bring with to the hospital :)  

Go-to eats:   Salad and cheese.  Ice cream.  Last night I wanted alfredo so bad, but we didn't have any.  It was a big bummer.  I actually still really want it.  I might have to stop on my way home.  I've been craving Mexican food too.  

Best moment/s of the week:  Getting closer and closer to our guess date.  Having time with John and Comet.

Hardest moment/s of the week:  I'm doing great.  I'm just ready to be done :)

Gender:  He's going to be my sweet boy!

What I wish people knew: Breastfeeding is a little scary.  I'm nervous it'll be hard and I won't be able to do it.  It's just something that is very important to me and I really want both myself and the babe to be successful at it. 

What I’m looking forward to:   Hanging out with my momma on Friday to celebrate her birthday.  She gets to come with me to my midwife appointment.  It'll probably be one of the last times I get to hang out with her without babe.  Having him be in my arms.  I cannot wait!  I can't wait to watch John hold him either.  I'm almost sure my heart is going to burst!

Milestones:  You are preparing for birth!  Bring it on babe!  I'm ready when you are!
  

To check out my growing bump click here :)