So much has happened since my last post! Let's see if I can recap...
For 9 fun-filled days starting July 31, the Texas Bub's headed to Egg Harbour, Wisconsin for the Bub Family Reunion! 25 family members! Each family took turns cooking for everyone and we had some very tasty fare! Each night after dinner, we played Catch Phrase and hung out by the bonfire. The days were filled with shopping and sightseeing in nearby towns, hiking, biking, zip lining, and hanging out on the beach. The weather was perfect! No humidity, didn't reach over 90, and in the evenings, jackets were needed outside. Ahhhh, so nice! The most exciting event took place one evening with Nick proposing to Stephanie! Congrats guys! We're all honored to have shared in the special moment.
Click here to view our Bub Family Reunion pics
On August 8, Brody Douglas Bub turned a whopping 3 months old! He's become so much more alert and only takes 2 twenty minute naps a day. He goes to bed around 8 and doesn't wake until 6 or 7. He's been "talking" up a storm and is reaching for objects. Just this morning he grabbed for his rings and put them in his mouth. He was so excited and mama was even more excited to see her baby boy getting so biggggg! Last Sunday, Brian and I took our little man for his first swim. He absolutely loved it!
Click here to view pics of Brody's first swim
Lastly, it was a sad weekend because little Lindsey Bub headed off to college. She chose Texas Tech as her future alma mater, a long 10 hour drive away. Best of luck Babis! We love you very much and miss you already!
Click here to view pics of Lindsey's farewell dinner
Monday, August 24, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
2 months!
Time is really flying by! Brody is feeding every 3 - 4 hours during the day and he's been sleeping through the night for about a week and a half now (let's hope he keeps it up!). We still keep him in a cradle by our bed but I don't wake up as much with every sound he makes. He goes down after an 11 pm feeding and doesn't wake until 6 am!
So much has happened in the last month. Friends and family have come to visit, Brody had his first outing, I had my first outing without him (my friend Michelle and I went to the beach for the day) and Brody had some professional pics taken for his two month birthday. Click on the links below to view the pics!
Friends and Family Visit
Two Months Old - Professional Pics (password Bub)
So much has happened in the last month. Friends and family have come to visit, Brody had his first outing, I had my first outing without him (my friend Michelle and I went to the beach for the day) and Brody had some professional pics taken for his two month birthday. Click on the links below to view the pics!
Friends and Family Visit
Two Months Old - Professional Pics (password Bub)
one whole month!
I can't believe Brody is a month old today! Things are getting a little easier and we're getting into a routine. He's feeding every 3 hours (no sleeping through the night yet) but we enjoy cat naps during the day and I go to bed after dinner and can pass him off to papa.
We've come up with a few nicknames for him that I just have to share. The first: Monster. He makes the most vicious sound when he's hungry and ready to latch on. It's hysterical! The second: Squirmy Worm. I don't know if this describes all babies but when Brody has gas or needs to dirty up his diaper, he grunts, sticks out his tongue, and wiggles about. The third: Dougy. My meme, who nicknamed me scooter when I was 6 weeks old because I'd scoot to the top of my cradle in the middle of the night, decided to nickname him Dougy because Brody was too modern for her so she took his middle name and shortened it! The Fourth: Chubby Bubby. No explanation needed :)
We chose Dr. Kahn as his pediatrician. Dr. Kahn was actually Brian's pediatrician! Dr. Kahn is in his 60's, he's very knowledgeable, and straightforward. I love him! Brody had his 1 month visit a couple of days ago and is doing great. He's gained almost 2 lbs! Most babies lose weight their first couple months but not our Chubby Bubby!
Click to see pics of Brody's First Month
We've come up with a few nicknames for him that I just have to share. The first: Monster. He makes the most vicious sound when he's hungry and ready to latch on. It's hysterical! The second: Squirmy Worm. I don't know if this describes all babies but when Brody has gas or needs to dirty up his diaper, he grunts, sticks out his tongue, and wiggles about. The third: Dougy. My meme, who nicknamed me scooter when I was 6 weeks old because I'd scoot to the top of my cradle in the middle of the night, decided to nickname him Dougy because Brody was too modern for her so she took his middle name and shortened it! The Fourth: Chubby Bubby. No explanation needed :)
We chose Dr. Kahn as his pediatrician. Dr. Kahn was actually Brian's pediatrician! Dr. Kahn is in his 60's, he's very knowledgeable, and straightforward. I love him! Brody had his 1 month visit a couple of days ago and is doing great. He's gained almost 2 lbs! Most babies lose weight their first couple months but not our Chubby Bubby!
Click to see pics of Brody's First Month
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
I'm a mama?!
It's late (or early for those of you who aren't used to staying out until the wee hours of the morning). I'm up and at 'um not because I've been out with friends, but because my priorities have changed and little Brody has decided 3 am is a great time for a feeding! I can't complain though, he's such a good baby!
How are my new priorities, you ask? Well, I'm up up every two and a half hours so he can feed. But, during that two and a half hour cycle, it takes an hour to feed, burp, and change his diaper, so really, I'm only getting an hour and a half of rest before we start the cycle all over again. I've learned to sleep when he sleeps, and do much of nothing else. I've learned to take showers at night and go to bed after Brian and I
eat dinner.
Life isn't all that bad when you look at his sweet little face! Check out some pics of the first 2 weeks!
How are my new priorities, you ask? Well, I'm up up every two and a half hours so he can feed. But, during that two and a half hour cycle, it takes an hour to feed, burp, and change his diaper, so really, I'm only getting an hour and a half of rest before we start the cycle all over again. I've learned to sleep when he sleeps, and do much of nothing else. I've learned to take showers at night and go to bed after Brian and I
eat dinner.Life isn't all that bad when you look at his sweet little face! Check out some pics of the first 2 weeks!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Welcome Brody Douglas Bub!
Welcome Brody Douglas Bub into this world! Born May 8, 2009 at 12:59 pm at Sugarland Memorial Hospital. 8 lbs. 4 oz. and 20 in. long.
Let's back up a week...
During my May 4 checkup, Dr. Patel decided to induce labor on May 11. Baby Bub was already 8 lbs so he said to save me from delivering a 9 lb baby, it would be ok to induce 10 days early, instead of waiting until May 21. Even though Brian and I hadn't completely set up for his arrival, we were ecstatic to meet our son soon! We rushed around all that week buying up the necessary items to finish Baby Bub's nursery.
On Thursday, May 7, I decided to go get a pedicure. I'm sure most of you have heard of the wives tale telling pregnant women not to get pedicures because it can induce labor due to a pressure point in the foot. I, for one, never believed it to be true! Also, let me add that there was a full moon this night and as some may have heard, a full moon can contribute to a woman going into labor as well (never believed this one either). So, I already had two strikes against me. After my wonderfully relaxing pedicure, I went home to meet Brian after his long day at work. We ate dinner then he and some buddies decided to go see the midnight showing of Star Trek...
Brian left around 11pm and I decided to stay up and read. Around midnight, as I was lying in bed reading my book, I felt the smallest trickle down below. I sat up thinking that perhaps I had had "a little accident" (as most of us know, the bladder of a pregnant woman isn't very strong). I rushed to the bathroom but I didn't have to go. I wasn't in any pain and didn't see any signs of my water breaking but I googled "water breaking" just in case. Yes, I googled it and yes, I just used the word google as a verb! The Internet told me to lie back down for 30 minutes and if I felt more water when I stood up, then it was my water breaking. I wanted to make sure it was labor so I did this test first before I disturbed Brian. After the 30 minutes, I stood up and didn't feel a thing, no water, no discomfort, nothing. So, I decided to lie back down and sleep. Around 1:30, I woke to the worst cramp in my side! To be honest, I ran to the bathroom because I thought I had to go!! Once I figured out I didn't have to go, I laid back down. 10 minutes later, the cramp came back...
I still wasn't sure if it was true contractions because it really didn't hurt that badly but they were coming every 10 minutes. I laid there until I heard Brian come home (at 2:15 am). I heard him go into the bathroom so I followed. I said, "hon, something is happening." He just looked at me and said, "well, what do we do?" I told him I wanted to lie back down and wait for awhile because I really wasn't in pain and didn't want to go to the hospital on a false alarm. I laid down and he called the Dr. to ask what we should do. We didn't hear back from the Dr. within an hour so we called the hospital directly. By then, my contractions were coming every 5 minutes. They told us to come right in.
I was admitted at 4 am and by 5 am, I was given an epidural. It wasn't that I needed one, the anesthesiologist was making his rounds and it was either I get one right then or wait an hour. So, I decided to get one right then. By 9 am, I was completely effaced and 100% dilated and ready to push! I pushed for 2 and 1/2 hours before they discovered my pelvis was too small for his 14 1/2 inch head to pass through. They prepped me for a cesarean and Brody was born at 12:59 pm on Friday, May 8, 2009!
Brian was the best support! He laid down with me at home during my contractions and just held my hand and helped me breathe. At the hospital, he would run to get me ice chips and even helped the nurse count for when I pushed. Brody and I are very lucky to have him!
Click to View Pictures of Brody's First Days
Let's back up a week...During my May 4 checkup, Dr. Patel decided to induce labor on May 11. Baby Bub was already 8 lbs so he said to save me from delivering a 9 lb baby, it would be ok to induce 10 days early, instead of waiting until May 21. Even though Brian and I hadn't completely set up for his arrival, we were ecstatic to meet our son soon! We rushed around all that week buying up the necessary items to finish Baby Bub's nursery.
On Thursday, May 7, I decided to go get a pedicure. I'm sure most of you have heard of the wives tale telling pregnant women not to get pedicures because it can induce labor due to a pressure point in the foot. I, for one, never believed it to be true! Also, let me add that there was a full moon this night and as some may have heard, a full moon can contribute to a woman going into labor as well (never believed this one either). So, I already had two strikes against me. After my wonderfully relaxing pedicure, I went home to meet Brian after his long day at work. We ate dinner then he and some buddies decided to go see the midnight showing of Star Trek...
Brian left around 11pm and I decided to stay up and read. Around midnight, as I was lying in bed reading my book, I felt the smallest trickle down below. I sat up thinking that perhaps I had had "a little accident" (as most of us know, the bladder of a pregnant woman isn't very strong). I rushed to the bathroom but I didn't have to go. I wasn't in any pain and didn't see any signs of my water breaking but I googled "water breaking" just in case. Yes, I googled it and yes, I just used the word google as a verb! The Internet told me to lie back down for 30 minutes and if I felt more water when I stood up, then it was my water breaking. I wanted to make sure it was labor so I did this test first before I disturbed Brian. After the 30 minutes, I stood up and didn't feel a thing, no water, no discomfort, nothing. So, I decided to lie back down and sleep. Around 1:30, I woke to the worst cramp in my side! To be honest, I ran to the bathroom because I thought I had to go!! Once I figured out I didn't have to go, I laid back down. 10 minutes later, the cramp came back...
I still wasn't sure if it was true contractions because it really didn't hurt that badly but they were coming every 10 minutes. I laid there until I heard Brian come home (at 2:15 am). I heard him go into the bathroom so I followed. I said, "hon, something is happening." He just looked at me and said, "well, what do we do?" I told him I wanted to lie back down and wait for awhile because I really wasn't in pain and didn't want to go to the hospital on a false alarm. I laid down and he called the Dr. to ask what we should do. We didn't hear back from the Dr. within an hour so we called the hospital directly. By then, my contractions were coming every 5 minutes. They told us to come right in.
I was admitted at 4 am and by 5 am, I was given an epidural. It wasn't that I needed one, the anesthesiologist was making his rounds and it was either I get one right then or wait an hour. So, I decided to get one right then. By 9 am, I was completely effaced and 100% dilated and ready to push! I pushed for 2 and 1/2 hours before they discovered my pelvis was too small for his 14 1/2 inch head to pass through. They prepped me for a cesarean and Brody was born at 12:59 pm on Friday, May 8, 2009!
Brian was the best support! He laid down with me at home during my contractions and just held my hand and helped me breathe. At the hospital, he would run to get me ice chips and even helped the nurse count for when I pushed. Brody and I are very lucky to have him!
Click to View Pictures of Brody's First Days
Thursday, April 9, 2009
So much is happening!
8 months along and feeling every bit of it! Baby Bub is moving so much and so often, I get confused on what I'm feeling, my own movements or his! Other things are happening too...
Brian's company decided to move him back to the Houston office so it's off we go! We packed up over the weekend and have settled in Sugarland. Man, I miss Austin already! It's so hot and humid here...can't wait for summer :( We believe this is the final move for us and although I'm not thrilled about the location, it is nice being so close to his family. No more 3 hour drives to visit the in-laws. It was getting really difficult these pasts two months being in the car that long!
My dr. appts are every week now and I've chosen a great dr. here in Sugarland, Dr. McDonald, Patel, and Li. They're awesome! Everything is fine and Baby Bub looks healthy and perfect.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
6 months, 1 week, and 5 days
I'll be 6 1/2 months on Thursday! Time is sure flying by but not fast enough for me...although I'm enjoying being pregnant and feel great, I am ready for it to be over already :)
I had a dr. appt on the 5th and despite baby Bub's growth and A+ testing (he rated above average on all of his testing - that's our boy!!), they are going to keep my due date at May 21. Whether or not I'll go into labor early is another question entirely. As you can see in the pic, baby Bub was sucking his thumb for the camera!
Brian and I are getting excited for our move to Houston so we can finally decorate for baby Bub's room. While we haven't decided on a name yet, we pretty much have his furniture, bedding, and decor all picked out. We'll be house hunting beginning next weekend in the Sugarland area. I can't wait! As far as this weekend goes, we'll be in Houston visiting his parents. His mom and I are going to see a Broadway play and I'm so excited!! Of course, Brian will be playing golf...
Stay tuned for my next dr. appt. at the end of the month. I'll be uploading a new pic or two as well.
I had a dr. appt on the 5th and despite baby Bub's growth and A+ testing (he rated above average on all of his testing - that's our boy!!), they are going to keep my due date at May 21. Whether or not I'll go into labor early is another question entirely. As you can see in the pic, baby Bub was sucking his thumb for the camera!
Brian and I are getting excited for our move to Houston so we can finally decorate for baby Bub's room. While we haven't decided on a name yet, we pretty much have his furniture, bedding, and decor all picked out. We'll be house hunting beginning next weekend in the Sugarland area. I can't wait! As far as this weekend goes, we'll be in Houston visiting his parents. His mom and I are going to see a Broadway play and I'm so excited!! Of course, Brian will be playing golf...
Stay tuned for my next dr. appt. at the end of the month. I'll be uploading a new pic or two as well.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Help us pick a baby name!
For the past month, Brian and I have been searching for baby boy Bub's name in baby name books, hearing suggestions from friends and family (and a few strangers), and even looking online. We have finally narrowed it down to 3 names we like best, and we would love your opinion! See the poll to the left of the screen and and vote!
DISCLAIMER: It's been very hard picking boy names and who knows, it may change 100 times between now and May 21st despite what we think we like now and your poll votes :)
In other news, Brian took me to the OB for my second trimester sonogram. After 45 minutes of poking, prodding, taking measurements, counting fingers and toes, and listening to his heartbeat, we were told we have a very healthy baby boy and everything is coming along just fine (so far so good!!). We were also told I may be further along than previously determined. I may be at the 6th month mark instead of the 5 1/2 month mark. They will decide on Feb. 5 if my due date will be pushed to earlier in May....stay tuned!
DISCLAIMER: It's been very hard picking boy names and who knows, it may change 100 times between now and May 21st despite what we think we like now and your poll votes :)
In other news, Brian took me to the OB for my second trimester sonogram. After 45 minutes of poking, prodding, taking measurements, counting fingers and toes, and listening to his heartbeat, we were told we have a very healthy baby boy and everything is coming along just fine (so far so good!!). We were also told I may be further along than previously determined. I may be at the 6th month mark instead of the 5 1/2 month mark. They will decide on Feb. 5 if my due date will be pushed to earlier in May....stay tuned!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Boy Oh Boy!!!
Brian and I went yesterday for our 5 month OB appt. to reveal the sex of little Bub. I can tell already baby is taking after mommy, stubborn and private, because it took Dr. Edgerton 20 
minutes to get the baby to pose just right! At one point, little Bub was sitting indian style in the womb not wanting the picture taken. Finally, the Dr. got the angle just right! If you can't tell, baby boy Bub is lying on his side with his two legs stretched out towards the right of the frame (although, his right leg is barely visible because it's toward the top of the frame), and in the middle of his outstretched legs, as plain as day, are his naughty bits! Boy oh boy!!! You can click on the picture for a closer view.
I know a lot of people have been requesting a belly picture...well, here it is, finally!
minutes to get the baby to pose just right! At one point, little Bub was sitting indian style in the womb not wanting the picture taken. Finally, the Dr. got the angle just right! If you can't tell, baby boy Bub is lying on his side with his two legs stretched out towards the right of the frame (although, his right leg is barely visible because it's toward the top of the frame), and in the middle of his outstretched legs, as plain as day, are his naughty bits! Boy oh boy!!! You can click on the picture for a closer view.Mommy and baby are doing very well! All the tests and sonograms have come back 100% normal (so far so good!!). I've gained 9 pounds to date and feel wonderful! Besides the heartburn (it's subsided for the most part), I don't really feel pregnant. When I tell people I'm 5 months along, they smile and look at my belly in disbelief. It's better than looking further along than I really am, I guess :) I do feel every twist, turn, somersault, karate kick, and judo chop little Bub boy makes though! It's the most amazing feeling, but the first few times scared the crap out of me because it was so sudden and random! He's very, very active during the day and fairly still at night and bedtime...thankfully!
I know a lot of people have been requesting a belly picture...well, here it is, finally! Wednesday, December 10, 2008
heartburn is second nature?!
I'm 17 weeks today. Heartburn has become second nature to me. Sensible breakfast with a side of heartburn, yes, please! I guess if this is my only symptom then I'm lucky...so I've been told ;)
I'm still wearing my normal clothes but sometimes I have to unbutton the top part of my pants in the afternoons. I'm so glad not to be wearing maternity clothing though. I've looked at Motherhood Maternity and the stuff really isn't that flattering to me. I am happy to report that I haven't given up my high heel shoes. Um, don't think so! I've got the yummy mummy status to uphold! Hopefully I will be able to wear my favorite shoes the entire pregnancy...maybe even in the delivery room ;)
Brian is doing well. He's been very sweet and helpful (as always). I do depend on him a little more now and feel a smidge guilty when I ask for him to refill my tea glass at dinner. Even though I can tell he doesn't want to get up to get it, he gladly takes my glass with a smile on his cute face and refills my glass. What a great hubby! Life is good :)
So, we'll know January 5 if it's a little all star or a little ballerina. Stay tuned!
I'm still wearing my normal clothes but sometimes I have to unbutton the top part of my pants in the afternoons. I'm so glad not to be wearing maternity clothing though. I've looked at Motherhood Maternity and the stuff really isn't that flattering to me. I am happy to report that I haven't given up my high heel shoes. Um, don't think so! I've got the yummy mummy status to uphold! Hopefully I will be able to wear my favorite shoes the entire pregnancy...maybe even in the delivery room ;)
Brian is doing well. He's been very sweet and helpful (as always). I do depend on him a little more now and feel a smidge guilty when I ask for him to refill my tea glass at dinner. Even though I can tell he doesn't want to get up to get it, he gladly takes my glass with a smile on his cute face and refills my glass. What a great hubby! Life is good :)
So, we'll know January 5 if it's a little all star or a little ballerina. Stay tuned!
Monday, November 24, 2008
15 1/2 weeks and I'm starting to show!
So, I'm almost 4 months...sounds a heck of a lot longer when you say it in months instead of weeks :) My energy has returned for the most part and although I don't go to bed as late as I used to, I do awake earlier so I'm up just as long! I guess I'm preparing myself for mommyhood (I used to sleep all day and stay up/out all night). Now, it's reversed, I get up at 6:30 and go to bed around 9 or 10!
Brian and I are heading to Houston on Wed. for the Thanksgiving holiday to spend with his family. It gets pretty lonely at times in Austin. We don't really know anyone and all we do is work. We're probably moving to Houston in 4 months, and although I really, really don't like Houston that much, it will be nice being close to family and friends. His family (and friends) are good people and I love them!
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving and enjoys being around family - even if they annoy you at times - they're all you have!
Brian and I are heading to Houston on Wed. for the Thanksgiving holiday to spend with his family. It gets pretty lonely at times in Austin. We don't really know anyone and all we do is work. We're probably moving to Houston in 4 months, and although I really, really don't like Houston that much, it will be nice being close to family and friends. His family (and friends) are good people and I love them!
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving and enjoys being around family - even if they annoy you at times - they're all you have!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
13 week OB appt.
We had our second OB appt. today. Brian was able to come along and we heard the heartbeat. 166 beats per minute! I hear later in pregnancy, if the heartbeat is fast, it's more than likely a girl. Who knows if the wives tales regarding the sex are true....but as a more reliable source, the nurse was looking at the sonogram and pushing on my belly to get the baby to move, when she said she thought she saw a "third leg" as baby Bub turned over. Well, Brian was just all smiles for the remainder of the day! I was all smiles too because Brian treated me to a decaf pumpkin spice latte after the visit!We have decided not to do any invasive testing as it may harm baby Bub. We'll only do testing by drawing my blood (which will be EVERY dr. visit, gulp!). They did measure (from the sonogram) the space by the baby's head and ruled out Down's Syndrome and various other disorders. That's good to hear! Everything during the appt. was fine and so far, so good!
It doesn't matter what we have, as long as it's a happy, healthy (and quiet) baby!
Monday, November 3, 2008
I'm a yummy mummy! 12 weeks along and I feel great!
I'll be 13 weeks on Friday, my energy is coming back, I'm not taking two naps a day anymore ( I am 5 minutes from my office so I go home for lunch to nap and take a soup back to work with me to eat), and I'm glowing! I understand why they call the second trimester the honeymoon of pregnancy stage! Oh, and the nausea and heartburn have subsided for the most part. The hiccups remain, which makes me laugh and everyone thinks is cute. I did experience some serious dizziness Friday though. I woke up lying on my back and went to get up for work. Whoa! Almost fell over twice! It lasted until I got to work and finally disappeared. My friend Carie told me not to lie on my back anymore as the ever growing uterus is now large enough to slow the blood/oxygen flow of some main vein. So much to learn!
My doctor wants me to come in this week for a bunch of testing (well, this week and the upcoming weeks). I've read tons of pregnancy websites and heard feedback from friends who've had wee ones. There's a risk of miscarriage but the tests detect defects and disease. Both Brian and my side of the family, going pretty far back, have a clean bill of health with no known birth defects or disease. Still, the doctor thinks it's a pretty good idea but I just don't know. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. The doctor has suggested the Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and an amniocentesis. A sonogram will also be given to see if it's twins or not. GULP!
We also have really started picking out baby names. I'm going to create a poll in the next few weeks on our top 3 choices for each.
My doctor wants me to come in this week for a bunch of testing (well, this week and the upcoming weeks). I've read tons of pregnancy websites and heard feedback from friends who've had wee ones. There's a risk of miscarriage but the tests detect defects and disease. Both Brian and my side of the family, going pretty far back, have a clean bill of health with no known birth defects or disease. Still, the doctor thinks it's a pretty good idea but I just don't know. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. The doctor has suggested the Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and an amniocentesis. A sonogram will also be given to see if it's twins or not. GULP!
We also have really started picking out baby names. I'm going to create a poll in the next few weeks on our top 3 choices for each.
Friday, October 24, 2008
11 weeks and counting (the days and the symptoms)
I'm 11 weeks and 1 day today and weird things are beginning to happen to my body! My stomach looks like nothing more than I've eaten too many meatball subs and I have a serious bout of gas :\ but, my boobs have doubled in size! Unfortunately, the funbags my husband's ogling are too tender to touch and are off limits for the time being! When I wake in the morning and get up to stretch, it feels like someone is ripping the skin under my armpits. Hopefully the tenderness and stretchy feeling will subside soon! Oh, and the prenatal vitamins are doing wonders for my hair, skin, and nails!
I went home from work on Wednesday because I was extremely nauseated and dizzy. Thursday and today I feel completely fine. Must have been a surge of hormones. And speaking of hormones, I was teary-eyed at an episode of Sex and the City! Now, I've always had a fondness for the show but come on! Oh, the joys of pregnancy, ha ha.
On a happier note, I was very excited to park in the "Expectant Mother" reserved parking spot yesterday. I received a weird look from a passerby, who looked at my semi-flat stomach and then at me. I know I don't have a huge baby bump making it harder for me to walk, but I AM prego and deserve to take advantage of the perks society offers pregnant women (which aren't many). Also, Brian and I were very excited to look at a baby name book last night. We've started to highlight the names we like! But, that's for another blog, another day :)
I went home from work on Wednesday because I was extremely nauseated and dizzy. Thursday and today I feel completely fine. Must have been a surge of hormones. And speaking of hormones, I was teary-eyed at an episode of Sex and the City! Now, I've always had a fondness for the show but come on! Oh, the joys of pregnancy, ha ha.
On a happier note, I was very excited to park in the "Expectant Mother" reserved parking spot yesterday. I received a weird look from a passerby, who looked at my semi-flat stomach and then at me. I know I don't have a huge baby bump making it harder for me to walk, but I AM prego and deserve to take advantage of the perks society offers pregnant women (which aren't many). Also, Brian and I were very excited to look at a baby name book last night. We've started to highlight the names we like! But, that's for another blog, another day :)
Monday, October 20, 2008
letting the secret out
So, we decided to tell our parents the last weekend in September. Again, not exactly the reaction every couple hopes for but after the initial shock wore off, everyone is showing their excitement and support and they can't wait to meet baby Bub!
Let's start with my side of the family. Everyone in my family lives in Virginia. It's hard being so far away sometimes, and this is one of those times. First, I called my mom Friday morning on my way to work. We hadn't been getting along very well lately but this certainly turned things around :) My mom was driving to visit my grandmother and aunt in Warrenton for the day. It's a pretty long drive. We talked for a few minutes when I decided there was no easy way to drop it into conversation so I just blurted it out, "mom, I'm pregnant". My mom screeched with delight and accidentally dropped the phone! She scrambled to pick it back up and screeched with joy for another 3 minutes. She was so excited! Then, she started crying because she wouldn't be around her first born (and only) daughter to go through the pregnancy with. My grandmother later told me my mom cried the entire way to Warrenton and it was all the three of them could talk about during their visit together.
Next was my dad. Typical dad! When I told him, his reaction was, "you sure about this?". He is excited for me and Brian but thinks we are still too young to have kids. I hate to break it to you dad, but I'll be 30 in 4 months. I'm not the little girl anymore playing with My Little Pony on the living room floor :) My dad is a great man and I love him dearly. He's just not very emotional sometimes and overly practical. In the passing weeks, he's been more excited, talking about things he wants to buy for baby Bub and his predictions on it being a girl. I hope he's right!
David and Jen (my brother and his wife) already knew from the moment we knew because we had to call them on their advice about the pregnancy test. They are very excited for us and can't wait for baby Bub to come along and make their two precious kids cousins! I know we will be calling them religiously when we have questions. I love them and miss them so much!
In the growing weeks (and belly), everyone seems to be more and more excited! From baby name suggestions to birthing options, we hear it all and love everyone who has their own two cents to share! Keep it coming friends and family, we are so excited to share our pregnancy with you. We love you!
Let's start with my side of the family. Everyone in my family lives in Virginia. It's hard being so far away sometimes, and this is one of those times. First, I called my mom Friday morning on my way to work. We hadn't been getting along very well lately but this certainly turned things around :) My mom was driving to visit my grandmother and aunt in Warrenton for the day. It's a pretty long drive. We talked for a few minutes when I decided there was no easy way to drop it into conversation so I just blurted it out, "mom, I'm pregnant". My mom screeched with delight and accidentally dropped the phone! She scrambled to pick it back up and screeched with joy for another 3 minutes. She was so excited! Then, she started crying because she wouldn't be around her first born (and only) daughter to go through the pregnancy with. My grandmother later told me my mom cried the entire way to Warrenton and it was all the three of them could talk about during their visit together.
Next was my dad. Typical dad! When I told him, his reaction was, "you sure about this?". He is excited for me and Brian but thinks we are still too young to have kids. I hate to break it to you dad, but I'll be 30 in 4 months. I'm not the little girl anymore playing with My Little Pony on the living room floor :) My dad is a great man and I love him dearly. He's just not very emotional sometimes and overly practical. In the passing weeks, he's been more excited, talking about things he wants to buy for baby Bub and his predictions on it being a girl. I hope he's right!
David and Jen (my brother and his wife) already knew from the moment we knew because we had to call them on their advice about the pregnancy test. They are very excited for us and can't wait for baby Bub to come along and make their two precious kids cousins! I know we will be calling them religiously when we have questions. I love them and miss them so much!
Next, the Bubs. Oh, how I love my new family! I'm so glad to have married into such a wonderful group of people. I think I would hate it here without them. Maybe we will move closer one day :)
Brian and I drove down to Houston to see/tell his family. We left Austin on Friday after work and arrived at the Bub house around 10pm. Nobody was home except for Kelly, Brian's 24 year old sister, and she was about to leave for the bars. We chatted with her for a few minutes when Brian blindsided her, "Are you ready to be an Aunt?". Kelly dropped our dog, Lily, and grabbed my stomach. She was so excited!
Brian's parents were the next to arrive home. It was about 10:30pm. Brian and I had almost decided to head up to bed because we weren't sure what time they'd make it home. Being pregnant makes you so tired and I just wanted to crawl into a warm spot and sleep! Just as we're about to head upstairs his parents walked in. We greeted and started chatting when Brian decides to let the secret out, "Guess what? Lisa is pregnant". You could hear crickets for a few seconds! Then, with delayed reaction, "Congrats! OH! Great! We're so excited!". They know about my not having health insurance right now and that we just downgraded to a one bedroom to save money to buy a house in the next year, so we know they're just concerned. His mom sat down on the couch beside me and hugged me. I could tell she was excited but still a little shocked. Then, Lindsey, Brian's 18 year old sister, walked in from cheering at her high school football game. "So, are you ready to be an aunt??" Brian said as he hugged her. She did a double take at Brian, and once his question registered, she threw her arms around me. "OH MY GOD, I'M GOING TO BE AN AUNT!". By far, it was the best reaction out of both of our families.In the growing weeks (and belly), everyone seems to be more and more excited! From baby name suggestions to birthing options, we hear it all and love everyone who has their own two cents to share! Keep it coming friends and family, we are so excited to share our pregnancy with you. We love you!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
9 weeks, a sonogram, and a surprise!
I quote one of my favorite childhood characters because it seems so fitting in this pregnant state, "A grand adventure is about to begin." - Winnie the Pooh. And a grand adventure it is, Pooh and readers! I'm 9 weeks along and I'm experiencing some serious morning sickness lately. Let me tell you, the sickness doesn't just hit you in the morning either. I'm beginning to think whoever coined the term "morning sickness" must have been a man! I hear I've been lucky though, I've only had morning sickness a few times. Gagging a few mornings before I've eaten anything and twice after eating lunch at Mexican restaurants. Maybe baby Bub doesn't like Mexican food. Well, baby Bub was conceived in Virginia and in my great home state, we don't enjoy Mexican food like Texans do!
Pregnancy does wreak havoc on you but the end result turns out to be the most amazing thing, it's the gift of life! Somehow, with all the morning sickness, the emotional roller coaster rides, heartburn, nosebleeds, and hiccups (and I have a touch of all of these), nothing matters but precious baby Bub growing inside me!
Well, I had my first prenatal visit today. Aside from being nervous, the visit went well and as it happened, I was in for a couple of surprises!
The doctor was performing my sonogram and reading the monitor pretty intensely. All was quiet until I heard a low, but audible "ohhhhh". And then I was nervous again! He turned the monitor in my direction and baby Bub was waving! I mean, not just a few sluggish movements, I mean Ms. America style waving! It was an amazing sight and I started to cry a little. Then, came the second surprise...
The doctor explained I have two yolk sacs but they only see one baby (technically, it's still called an embryo). It's more than likely a "vanishing twin", where the second baby doesn't take/attach and is reabsorbed by the body. But, they are going to keep a watchful eye to see if there is any growth during the next sonogram as the other baby Bub could be too small to see. We were hoping for just one healthy, happy baby but if we're blessed with two, then we'll gladly make more room in our home and our hearts!
Pregnancy does wreak havoc on you but the end result turns out to be the most amazing thing, it's the gift of life! Somehow, with all the morning sickness, the emotional roller coaster rides, heartburn, nosebleeds, and hiccups (and I have a touch of all of these), nothing matters but precious baby Bub growing inside me!
Well, I had my first prenatal visit today. Aside from being nervous, the visit went well and as it happened, I was in for a couple of surprises!
The doctor was performing my sonogram and reading the monitor pretty intensely. All was quiet until I heard a low, but audible "ohhhhh". And then I was nervous again! He turned the monitor in my direction and baby Bub was waving! I mean, not just a few sluggish movements, I mean Ms. America style waving! It was an amazing sight and I started to cry a little. Then, came the second surprise...
The doctor explained I have two yolk sacs but they only see one baby (technically, it's still called an embryo). It's more than likely a "vanishing twin", where the second baby doesn't take/attach and is reabsorbed by the body. But, they are going to keep a watchful eye to see if there is any growth during the next sonogram as the other baby Bub could be too small to see. We were hoping for just one healthy, happy baby but if we're blessed with two, then we'll gladly make more room in our home and our hearts!Wednesday, October 8, 2008
our virginia souvenir!
The greatest Virginia souvenir! Brian and I had gone to Virginia the last weekend in August for my best friend's wedding. It was a weekend event at Shenandoah National Park on Skyline Drive. We stayed at Skyland Resort in a cozy little cabin for two. It was wonderful! Since there weren't any televisions in the cabins, we had to entertain ourselves. We went sightseeing (and for those who don't know, Skyline is at the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains, elevation 4,000 feet), we hiked nature trails, and we just were able to enjoy each other's company. The wedding weekend was relaxing, rejuvenating, and very romantic! The night of Michelle's wedding on August 31, there was a beautiful sunset, and as you can see, very romantic...
My obstetrics doctor says we conceived baby Bub on August, 31.
My obstetrics doctor says we conceived baby Bub on August, 31.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
we're, um, a little pregnant?!
It's every couples dream...the husband quietly paces the kitchen floor while the wife is in the bathroom taking a pregnancy test. She emerges 3 minutes later with a huge smile and tears in her eyes and says, "I'm pregnant!". The husband scoops the wife up in his arms and hugs her tight, overwhelmed with joy and excitement. They spend the next couple of hours flipping through baby books and chatting about baby names, holding hands and staring romantically into each other's eyes. It's touching, it's beautiful, and it's compelling. I expected nothing less they day I found out I was pregnant...
Unfortunately, reality isn't always made of dreams come true. When we found out, we were certainly overwhelmed with joy and excitement, but we were also filled with a little worry and a little shock :) It's not that we didn't want to start a family, it's just we didn't think were prepared just yet. The insurance my company provides doesn't kick in until January and pregnancy-related doctor bills are beyond expensive! The first trimester/first three months are filled with doctor visits, blood tests, and sonograms (not to mention morning sickness, moodiness, and copious cat naps!). It's a lot to take on and definitely a lot to take on without insurance. The other thing is, we moved mid-September from a two bedroom apartment to a "cozy" one bedroom to save money so we can buy a house in the next year or so. We had talked about getting pregnant in the past but decided to put it off for a year or two until we were more settled and prepared. We wanted a bigger place to live, more dollars in the bank account, active health insurance....you know, the fundamentals of starting a family.
It was Sunday, September, 20, 2008. A few friends and family had just left from helping us move the last bit of boxes and furniture from our old place. Brian and I were unpacking when I decided to mention my period hadn't started yet. By my calculations, which aren't always on track, I was supposed to start my period last Sunday. We figured with the stress of moving, my new job, and the shift in my birth control prescription, my period was just late. But, we decided to get a pregnancy test anyway. Returning from the drug store with our 3-pack of tests (why do they only sell pregnancy tests in packs of three? It only takes one to tell!), I went to the bathroom while Brian paced the kitchen floor. 3 minutes later I emerged from the bathroom with the pregnancy stick in my hand. It clearly showed one pink line but next to it, a very, very faint pink line. So faint that if you turned it, the second pink line disappeared. My rationale, if there was a second pink line at all, faint or not, the test detected a level of HGC (pregnancy hormone) in my body and therefore, I was a little pregnant. Wait, a little pregnant?!
We were so confused! Brian was somewhat doubtful. I called my very close friend/sister-in-law, Jennifer, and asked her advice. She agreed I was pregnant but to clear up any doubt, we should purchase a digital test. She said you can't go wrong with digital tests. Tells you "pregnant" or "not pregnant", unlike the conventional tests that can leave you guessing with faint pink lines.
Unfortunately, reality isn't always made of dreams come true. When we found out, we were certainly overwhelmed with joy and excitement, but we were also filled with a little worry and a little shock :) It's not that we didn't want to start a family, it's just we didn't think were prepared just yet. The insurance my company provides doesn't kick in until January and pregnancy-related doctor bills are beyond expensive! The first trimester/first three months are filled with doctor visits, blood tests, and sonograms (not to mention morning sickness, moodiness, and copious cat naps!). It's a lot to take on and definitely a lot to take on without insurance. The other thing is, we moved mid-September from a two bedroom apartment to a "cozy" one bedroom to save money so we can buy a house in the next year or so. We had talked about getting pregnant in the past but decided to put it off for a year or two until we were more settled and prepared. We wanted a bigger place to live, more dollars in the bank account, active health insurance....you know, the fundamentals of starting a family.
It was Sunday, September, 20, 2008. A few friends and family had just left from helping us move the last bit of boxes and furniture from our old place. Brian and I were unpacking when I decided to mention my period hadn't started yet. By my calculations, which aren't always on track, I was supposed to start my period last Sunday. We figured with the stress of moving, my new job, and the shift in my birth control prescription, my period was just late. But, we decided to get a pregnancy test anyway. Returning from the drug store with our 3-pack of tests (why do they only sell pregnancy tests in packs of three? It only takes one to tell!), I went to the bathroom while Brian paced the kitchen floor. 3 minutes later I emerged from the bathroom with the pregnancy stick in my hand. It clearly showed one pink line but next to it, a very, very faint pink line. So faint that if you turned it, the second pink line disappeared. My rationale, if there was a second pink line at all, faint or not, the test detected a level of HGC (pregnancy hormone) in my body and therefore, I was a little pregnant. Wait, a little pregnant?!
We were so confused! Brian was somewhat doubtful. I called my very close friend/sister-in-law, Jennifer, and asked her advice. She agreed I was pregnant but to clear up any doubt, we should purchase a digital test. She said you can't go wrong with digital tests. Tells you "pregnant" or "not pregnant", unlike the conventional tests that can leave you guessing with faint pink lines. Brian and I went back to the drug store and purchased another 3 pack of digital tests from the same store clerk who rung us up the last time, and he was giving us questioning looks. You have to give it to those store clerks, I'm sure they see very weird purchases but they never comment. I'd have a very hard time if I were a clerk because I'd want to know more! Anyway, we arrived home (again) and I went to the bathroom while Brian wore out the kitchen floor. This time, it only took 1 minute for the 3 minute test to read "pregnant".
We both stood in the kitchen staring at the digital "pregnant" pregnancy stick for a moment or two. Then, Brian scooped me up and hugged me tight! I could hear the excitement in his voice, "everything will be fine, we'll make this work! I'm so happy we're pregnant!". Hearing my wonderful husband say those words put me at ease. We kissed and cuddled for a few minutes and then, Brian fell to his knees and started talking to baby Bub (go ahead, you can say "awww"!).
Although we weren't flipping through baby books and chatting about baby names, holding hands and staring romantically into each others eyes, we did spend the next couple of hours searching online to see whether or not insurance companies consider pregnancy a pre-existing condition and trying to figure out where in our small, one bedroom apartment the baby's bassinet will go (we have decided to sell the love seat in our bedroom and put a bassinet and changing table with drawers in the corner). Our "cozy" one bedroom apartment will now be even cozier with the arrival of baby Bub! Thankfully, we'll be able to move to a bigger place when baby Bub is only 4 months!
Brian and I are overwhelmed with joy and excitement, and actually, our dreams have come true, just a little early! It didn't happen as we dreamed it would happen, but we love baby Bub already and know we'll be great parents!
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