My Birth Story

Well, Baby DBud is exactly 2 weeks old... and it is time for me to tell the story of his Birth.

It all started at my 38w4d appointment, when the Doctor checked my cervix for any early signs of labor. Can you believe it? Nothing. Zip. Nada. Our little man was still high up, and my cervix was completely hard and closed. I had felt a few slight contractions here and there... but nothing to really report. It was at that moment, that we decided (along with my OB) to schedule a c-section. I was pretty much done being pregnant, and he seemed to have no plans of coming out, so he was getting evicted! They ushered us over to the office manager's office where we sat with her to schedule the procedure. We left the office with our c-section scheduled for Monday, October 22nd. That later changed, when we started looking at our schedule, and everything we needed to get done. We actually tried to have it re-scheduled for Wednesday the 24th, but that date wasn't available, so we had to schedule it for Thursday the 25th. **A little background about why we wanted the 24th - DH's Birthday is 2/24, mine is 5/24 and we got married on 1/24... so naturally, we would've liked the baby to be born on 10/24 ;) Anyway... we were scheduled and ready to go, with our pre-registration taking place the day before, the 24th at 9am. We got up that morning, grabbed breakfast, and headed to the hospital to finish filling out all the paperwork, etc. 

We ran a little late, and actually didn't get there until about 10am (I actually wasn't feeling great, and was praying to the porcelain gods before we left the house - I chalked it up to "nerves" getting the best of me). We went ahead and filled out all the pre-registration paperwork, and were sent over to where the nurse would meet us to run a few tests. All was going well... until they checked my blood pressure. It was somewhere in the 150s over 90s, which was high (especially for me, Mrs. 120/70). I found it strange, because at my last appointment, the day we scheduled the c-section, it was higher than normal as well... not "high" necessarily, but high for what my norm is. The nurse took it a couple more times, to check, and it was not getting any lower. She actually went ahead and called my Doctor to let him know, and see what he wanted to do. Meanwhile, they weren't really telling me much, she just gave me a couple of small bottles of water to see if that helped, but at that point, nothing did. She had me pee in a cup, and have my blood drawn, before sending me up to triage to put me on monitors. The baby's heart rate was fine, but my BP remained high. Within a few minutes, my OB arrived (one of the two from the practice I visit). He was performing a c-section that day, and was able to come and check on me. Well, apparently, I was having some contractions every 4 minutes (which I did not notice). My OB told us that with his experience, high BP only got higher, and that his instinct was to get the baby delivered that day... within 1 1/2 - 2 hours! Oh..My..GOD!!!!! Here we were, in the hospital, a couple of hours from meeting our son... with no hospital bag, no nice expensive camera that we bought to take photos and videos of our son with, and no family members! My Mom was at work, his parents had a Doctor's appointment, and NO ONE expected this. Mr. DBud started calling and texting everyone, letting them know what was going on, as they whisked us off to pre-op. Before long, I was wheeled into the OR, where I got my epidural and was prepped for the surgery, and before much longer time was called, and Mr. DBud was brought into the room. By this time, I was pretty nervous (and worried) watching my BP skyrocket to the 200s/100s. Mr. DBud kept his cool... but he was very worried :( Within a few minutes... I heard him. My son! He had the sweetest and softest cry and all I could think was how I wanted to see him, and hold him. They had Mr. DBud cut the umbilical cord, cleaned him up, weighed and measured him, took his foot prints, and swaddled him before placing him on my chest. I was overwhelmed with emotion as I looked at him - my Son! It was love at first site. The three of us posed for our first family portrait, before they wheeled him to the nursery, with Mr. DBud in tow. I stayed behind to get sewn up, while the Doctors chatted about all sorts of random things like Eddie Murphy and the movie "Coming to America", etc. When they were done, I was moved to another bed and rolled to recovery. 

While in recovery, my BP remained high. They called my OB, and asked what medicine to give me... but apparently, my system LAUGHED at the first two they tried. Neither had any effect, and my blood pressure remained where it was - through the roof! Finally, the last medication they tried worked, and it started to come down. Unfortunately, this made my time in recovery go from about 2 hours (which is the norm) to about 4 1/2 hours, and landed me a stay in SICU. I tried to rest up a bit while still in recovery, in between Mr. DBud coming to see me and being checked every once in a while by the nurses. After a few hours, I was surprised by a Nurse who took pity on us, and brought the baby to me in recovery. This is normally not allowed at this hospital, since the babies have alarms attached, and are not exactly close to the recovery area... but she got special permission, and brought him to us. I tried to feed him with the formula she brought (which I wasn't too happy about because I wanted to breast feed since day one, but needed to get approval from the Pediatrician because of the meds I was on), but because of all the IVs and everything I was attached to (including a BP cuff that went off every 15 minutes, oxygen, etc.) I couldn't. This made me sad :( I wanted to be free to hold him and caress him... and I wanted to breast feed him :( After a little bit, she took him back to the nursery, and I was moved into a room in the SICU. Mr. DBud would go visit him when he could... but it broke my heart to know that he was in the nursery all the time, without his Mommy and Daddy, while all the other babies could be with their Parents :( It was extremely depressing. 

I was in SICU until the next day, when they finally decided to put me in a regular room next to the nursery. It took a while, even after I was told that I could be moved, for me to get moved... but it finally happened. And not long after that, our sweet baby boy was brought to the room, and was with us constantly! Finally, my Mom was able to see and carry her Grandson (her first!) and my Mother in Law was also able to be with us carry him :) We had quite a few visitors over the next few days, and little by little I started to feel normal again. It felt so good to have the IV and all the other cables and monitors removed, and of course with the right amount of pain medication every certain amount of time, I was able to get out of bed, and move around a bit. Baby steps ;)

Now, 2 weeks after his Birth, I am feeling great. My c-section scar is healing well (had the staples removed at my 1 week PP appointment, and replaced by steri strips which have begun to fall off as well), and I am actually functioning well without any form of pain medication. Baby DBud is breast feeding (sometimes constantly) and we were able to get him completely off the formula. He has even been sleeping for a nice long stretch at night, giving us about 5 hours straight of sleep! He is a wonderful and beautiful baby - I couldn't ask for more. I am SO incredibly blessed. 

So, what can I say? This has definitely been an emotional ride. Even though, in the end, I was fortunate in easily overcoming my issues with IF, trying to get pregnant was hard, at times. My pregnancy was pretty good, for the most part, but my delivery and the first 24 hours of recovery in SICU sucked, for lack of a better word... but, you know, all I have to do is look at him - my SON - and it is ALL worth it. It is true when they say that everything "negative" you experience seems to disappear when they are finally in your arms. He is the light of my life, and I can't imagine how I lived all these years without him. We are completely head over heals with our sweet baby boy. To everyone out there who is TTC, whether you are experiencing IF issues, have TTC for a while or just begun... there IS a light at the end of the tunnel - and it is even brighter than you think it is!!! Thank you all for following my story, and for all the support over these past couple of years. I don't know what I would've done without being able to share my story, in moments of happiness and woe. This blog has been such a huge part of my TTC process, and I am extremely grateful to be a part of it :) Thank you!

As I wrap up this, my final post... here is a song for my Son. I love you with everything that I have, and everything that I am. You have made my life complete, and I thank God everyday for making you mine.

Christian Javier

October 24, 2012

2:33pm

7lb4oz, 19 3/4 inches

Baby DBud is here!

And he's absolutely perfect :)

He was born via c-section on Wednesday, October 24 at 2:33pm, weighing in at 7lbs4oz, 19 3/4 inches. Today he is officially a week old, and we are both doing extremely well. We are so happy and blessed to have our little man in our lives.

My birth story is complicated, and long... And I am still getting in the swing of things, taking care of a newborn and breastfeeding, so I will share my story in another post soon. In the meantime, meet Christian :)




Stay tuned!!!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

39 weeks - still pregnant

Here is my current update, for your reading pleasure :) 

How far along: 39 weeks - no progress as of this past Wednesday at 38w4d :-/

Total weight change: Stopped at +50 - thank God!

Maternity clothes: Same. I've got my pregnancy uniform ;)

Stretch Marks: I have accepted my Zebra status :) 

Movement: Still rolling around in there, but slightly slower. I think he has officially run out of room. 

Sleep: LOVE my sleepy time. Sleeping well, but waking up with aches. My body is "done".

Best Moment This Past Week: Deciding that this will be the week. Scheduled a c-section for Thursday, very early in the morning... but still hoping he'll come on his own before then. Let's see what happens...

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Not seeing any progress. Also, my blood pressure was a bit high (considering it has been low and stable during the entire pregnancy).

Belly Button In or Out: Still in... looks like a butt-hole lol!!!!

Cravings/Aversions: No major cravings. Not even hungry at times. 

Symptoms: Heartburn, and indigestion. Slight BH here and there... but nothing major. Thinking of convincing Mr. DBud to DTD so maybe the baby will decide to come out ;)

I am dying for him to be here, so I can share my birth story with you!!!!! Pray for us :)

37w5d - he's snug like a bug in a rug ;)

Well, here I am... almost at the 38 week mark! I still can't believe that in the next couple of weeks, we'll be meeting our son :) :) :) It's still soooooo surreal. I know a lot of women out there can relate. Once you've dealt with even the most minor case of IF, you are never sure if you will ever have your take home baby. So, when you are this close, it's still so hard to believe.

I want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout-out to our very own Explorer Bud. Let's hope and pray that this LO sticks so she can have her own take home baby!!!! Please keep her in your T&P. 

Anyway, let's get down to my updates, shall we?

How far along: 37 weeks 5 days! :) Cervix is still high and closed as of my OB appointment yesterday, so it seems like this little man is very comfortable, and not ready to come out yet. 

Total weight change: I don't even want to say it... but I will. +50! HOW THE HECK?! I haven't changed any of my eating habits, my blood pressure is great. I am, however, swollen like a toad, retaining tons of water. OB hasn't said anything about it, so he doesn't seem concerned. But I am :-/ Let's see how big this baby really is. They keep saying he's going to be huge, but at my last ultrasound they estimated 6lbs6oz (could be a lb more or less, give or take). I guess we'll find out soon enough!

Maternity clothes: Still the same. I refuse to buy anymore maternity clothes, and am getting by with what I have. With the amount of time I have left, why bother? Plus, no need to layer in South Florida for Fall... I can get away with wearing the same ol' stuff. The only thing I need to get is... nursing bras and tanks!!! Need to head to Target for that... Doing that today, since I need to finish packing my Hospital Bag. 


Stretch Marks: Still Zebra status. I have given up on the whole stretch mark issue. I guess when we are done having kids, I'll have them taken care of. Whatever.  


Movement: He moves pretty regularly. Definitely has days where he moves more than others... but, like I said before, it's more like a roll, and less kicking than before. Some of his movements are quite strong. It's funny to sit and look at my belly as he wiggles in there. So weird! lol


Sleep: Sleeping like a rock! Thank GOD! I am trying to get as much rest as possible, and find myself hitting the sack a lot earlier than I used to. I think my body is trying to tell me something... get your rest while you still can! I love my sleep time ;) I also try to get a nap in when I get home from work. At least an hour or so.


Best Moment This Past Week: Reaching "Full Term", starting to pack my Hospital Bag (already packed his), almost finishing up the nursery (almost!)... and I'm sure we have a couple more here and there. We got the mattress, compliments of MIL, and are just about ready to put that together. I just have to finish the letters of his name for the wall above the crib. Other than that, it's really taking shape. Pictures coming soon!!!!!


Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Seeing that number on the scale... scary :( I am starting to get a little worried about weight loss after the baby comes, because I was already overweight to begin with, and it isn't good for my career. I plan on breastfeeding, so I can't go on a crazy diet straight off. Hopefully a lot of this weight will come off on its own. Let's hope!


Belly Button In or Out: Still in... looks so weird! I don't think it'll become an outtie, but it's pretty shallow. 

Cravings/Aversions: Still into chewing ice when it's hot and I feel dehydrated (and it still is here, for the most part, in South FLA). No other major cravings, though. 


Symptoms: Heartburn comes and goes, which can really suck at times... It got pretty wicked last night. Looking forward to not having to deal with that anymore. 

36 weeks TOMORROW!!!! :) :) :)

I know I have said this quite a few times throughout my history with this blog... but... I STILL can't it!!! And I know what you're thinking... "Honey, BELIEVE it!" Tomorrow, I'll be 36 weeks, and I'm feeling good :)

How far along: 35 weeks 6 days! :) Cervix is still high and closed, too. 

Total weight change: Last week I was up to 38lbs (eek!) and this week I actually lost a pound, so 37 (still, eek!). But, again, I haven't been lectured, and my OB has not seemed concerned with my weight. He seems pretty happy with the progress I am making :) 

Maternity clothes: Still the same. I refuse to buy anymore maternity clothes, and am getting by with what I have. With the amount of time I have left, why bother? Plus, no need to layer in South Florida for Fall... I can get away with wearing the same ol' stuff. The only thing I need to get is... nursing bras and tanks!!! Need to head to Target for that... 

Stretch Marks: I am officially a zebra. Oh well :-/ It's for a good cause. Mr. DBud doesn't seem to mind, so I guess I won't let it bother me. 

Movement: He still moves quite a bit, but has definitely slowed down a lot. When he does move, it's mostly rolling and such. Sometimes, I look at my belly and it's completely lopsided! The FUN part is when he stretches and puts pressure on the upper part of my belly AND on my bladder. Not cool! lol! I am being sent for an Ultrasound on Monday to see how big he has gotten... this will be fun, since I haven't seen him since end of June!!! Looking forward to it :)

Sleep: Sleeping like a rock! Thank GOD! I am trying to get as much rest as possible, and find myself hitting the sack a lot earlier than I used to. I think my body is trying to tell me something... get your rest while you still can! ;)

Best Moment This Past Week: Finding out that our furniture arrived (Mr. DBud is out picking it up with his friend now) and getting the nursery ALMOST finished! Once the furniture is in place, we will only be missing the mattress, which his mom is getting for us, and putting the bedding in place. I am also in the process of figuring out what I am going to do for the wall area above the crib. I want to do something with his name, but am looking for some creative ideas that will match the "Safari Sky" theme. We shall see :)   

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: My FIRST cervix check since being pregnant. Mr. DBud and I haven't been too "active" in the intimate department lately. Mostly because it is just too uncomfortable. Truth be told, it's been quite a while. So, when I went in to the Dr. yesterday, and he had to do cultures and all that good stuff, it was SO uncomfortable. That sucked. 

Belly Button In or Out: Still in... but doesn't seem like it will be for long lol! But seriously... I'll be surprised if it completely pops.

Cravings/Aversions: Still into chewing ice when it's hot and I feel dehydrated (and it still is here in South FLA). No other major cravings, though. 

Symptoms: Heartburn comes and goes, which can really suck at times... and the cold I've been battling for 2 and a half weeks is ALMOST gone. But, I speak like I have a frog in my throat, which is annoying since I'm a singer and so MENTAL about my voice. 

I am looking forward to finishing the nursery this weekend, and getting our bags packed. My official goal was to have EVERYTHING ready by 37 weeks which is NEXT weekend, so I think we are good :) :) :) I hope to have everything done by Friday the 5th so Mr. DBud and I can have a little Date Night and go see Frankenweenie :) I am a HUGE Tim Burton fan, and have been looking forward to seeing it. Hopefully, baby stays put until AFTER the movie. So far so good ;) 

Can't wait to post pictures... and hey, before long... I may be posting my Birth Story ;) 

Until next time!!!!! <3

34w2d... counting down the days and weeks :)

How far along: 34 weeks 2 days! :)

Total weight change: At my last OB appointment I was up a total of (I believe) 31lbs... He doesn't seem concerned, and neither do I, considering that it seems it has all accumulated in my belly. I sometimes look like I am carrying a basketball under my shirt. Lovely :)

Maternity clothes: Still the same. I refuse to buy anymore maternity clothes, and am getting by with what I have. 

Stretch Marks: I am officially a zebra. Oh well :-/ 

Movement: He's definitely a roller! There are times when I feel him moving a lot and other times that he is a little more relaxed. At night, when I get in bed, he likes to put on a little show ;) I actually think he's head down and starting to get a little low... we shall see soon!!!

Sleep: Sleeping pretty well, actually. I love to sleep! Gotta take advantage before our little man gets here ;) 

Best Moment This Past Week: Not really pregnancy related, but DH cleaned the house, which made me super happy! We also went to IKEA today and bought the shelves we wanted for our desk area. The baby's room is in our office, so we created a "wall unit" type office area so that the rest of the room can be all "Baby Land" ;) Mr. DBud built and mounted the shelves and everything is lookin' good! Now we just have to organize all our "office" stuff on them.   

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Catching another cold that started in my throat, moved to my sinuses, moved to my chest, and now back to my sinuses. Hopefully, it'll go away soon. It's been almost a week :-/

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but definitely not as deep as before. It's getting more shallow each day... lol

Cravings/Aversions: Still into chewing ice when it's hot (and it still is here in South FLA). No other major cravings, though. 

Symptoms: Haven't had that horrible heart burn I was having, which is great... I've just been battling this cold, which totally sucks. But, I must say, I've been feeling some pain and slight pressure in my pelvis. I am wondering if this means things are "getting ready" for what is coming in the next few weeks. We shall see!!!

Thursday, I have another appointment with my OB. He said he will send me for another ultrasound to determine how big the baby is, and see where our birth plans will take us. I am excited to see how things have progressed, being that I haven't had an ultrasound since late June. Can't wait :)

Until next time!!

32 weeks - Baby Shower and Birth Plan!

The last couple of weeks have been nothing short of INSANE! With going back to work and finishing up preparations for the Baby Shower, we have been extremely busy. I am happy to report that everything went beautifully, and will be sharing some photos as well :) Get ready for a long post :)

How far along: 32 weeks 4 days! :)

Total weight change: Just had an appointment with my OB yesterday, and am up a total of 31 lbs!!! ::GASP:: OB seems to be ok with it... I don't think I've changed my eating habits... But I do think Baby DBud is really starting to put on some wait... And I'm starting to feel it!

Maternity clothes: Same as last time... I hate most maternity clothes, so I got my baby shower dress from The Avenue, and it fit great. It was a bandeau maxi dress with black, a lighter blue and a dark blue.

Stretch Marks: No new ones... and the ones I have look a little less red/purple. So, hopefully there won't be anymore...

Movement: He is moving a lot lately! Rolling and kicking... so cute :) More rolling than kicking these days. Gotta say, the hiccups are cute :)

Sleep: Back to work, so not sleeping as much as I would like, but still sleeping well. I pretty much knock out, and only wake up about once a night to go to the restroom. I also wake up once or twice to turn over from one side to the other. Still loving my Boppy :)

Best Moment This Past Week: Of course, the Baby Shower!!!!! Also, having my OB appointment and setting up the birth plan... Which I'll go into in a bit :)

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Can't say that I had any real difficult moments... It was a good week :) However, I did have a major fit when one of my dogs tore up one of my favorite sandals... One of the ONLY shoes that still fit. It was a totally hormonal moment. Other than that, it was a wonderful week.

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but definitely not as deep as before. It's getting more shallow each day... lol

Cravings/Aversions: Not really craving anything, actually. The ice cravings have died down... But it also hasn't been as hot anymore. I hope our South Florida version of Spring is on the Horizon... Here's hoping!!!

Symptoms: The Heartburn has been coming and going, and hasn't been TOO bad. The nausea has been staying away. I have a very heavy, low, feeling in my uterus, that is also quite exhausting. I want him to stay put for a few more weeks, so let's hope he does, but it's getting a little uncomfortable.

And now... First things first!

On Saturday, we had my Baby Shower. It was a beautiful, women only, event at a gorgeous restaurant. We had about 70 guests for a Cirque du Bebe theme that turned out beautifully! It was a major DIY event, and I have to say I was extremely pleased with the result. We made the favors and flower arrangements. Here are a few pictures, taken by a photographer we hired, of the details:

The cake

Diaper and Wipes Tent

My Table :)

A gift from a good friend for the Baby's room (bedding is Carter's Safari Sky)

Feathers!

Showered with gifts for the Baby! (this is not even half of what we got)

A special gift for Mommy from some co-workers :)

It was an amazing day, and I have to say that I am truly blessed to have so many people who care for us.

As for my Dr. appointment and Birth Plan, I briefly discussed this with my OB at our appointment yesterday. I told him that the only thing I do not want is to be induced. He said that was fine, because the Hospital we chose won't induce until 41 weeks either way. He is sending me for another ultrasound in 2 weeks to see how big the baby is getting, etc. If the baby is too big, and he feels a c-section may be the best option, then we he will schedule me for one. I am only 5'1", which concerns him a bit in reference to having complications during vaginal birth. If the baby is a good size for me to try and deliver vaginally, he will let me be until 39 weeks. If he doesn't come by then, it'll be a c-section for sure. I am fine with whatever will be best for the baby and I, so at this point I am putting it in his hands. I am going to be specific about what I don't want, but other than that, I'm flexible.

So that's that... Now, we wait! We are waiting on the furniture to arrive (in about 2-3 weeks) so we can build it and finish the nursery. In the meantime, I'm going to start packing my hospital bag, and preparing anything else we need.

Until next time :)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Sneaking up on 31 weeks...

How far along: 30 weeks 5 days! :)

Total weight change: At my last OB appointment I was up a total of 22lbs... We shall see what the damage is at our next appointment which will take place on September 4th. 

Maternity clothes: I bought a few shirts for our Maternity Photo Shoot, and LOVE them. I got them from Target, and LOVE them. My only issue, now that I'm back to work, is pants. I have some leggings and some fold over black "yoga" pants (that don't really look like exercise pants at all which I wear to work... but I don't want to look too casual, so we'll see how I navigate the next weeks. I'll definitely be around until about mid-October, at least, so I need to figure out some work-friendly outfits, without spending too much. 

Stretch Marks: No new ones... and the ones I have look a little less red/purple. So, hopefully there won't be anymore... 

Movement: He is moving a lot lately! Rolling and kicking... so cute :) I love to feel him move, and I love to see Mr. DBud's face when he sees my belly rolling :)

Sleep: Back to work, so not sleeping as much as I would like, but still sleeping well. I pretty much knock out, and only wake up about once a night to go to the restroom. I also wake up once or twice to turn over from one side to the other. Still loving my Boppy :) 

Best Moment This Past Week: My In-Laws ordered his furniture :) I need to find out when it will be arriving... hopefully it's in stock, and will arrive soon :) Can't wait to start putting it together! We also took our Maternity pictures today with a good friend of mine that has started up her photography business again. She is a teacher, but she is a very artistic and talented photographer. I'll try to share some pictures in the near future ;)  

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Going back to work, and having to re-adjust to the "new" schedule. Summer was such a great time for me... being able to rest and do everything at my leisure. Now, I feel like I don't have time for anything. The next time I am home for a long period of time, I'll be dedicating all my time to my son :) 

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but definitely not as deep as before. It's getting more shallow each day... lol

Cravings/Aversions: ICE! It has been soooooo hot here in South Florida... I have been extremely thirsty. I drink water, but the ice is what really cools me off. I was a bit concerned, because I heard that craving ice during pregnancy could be a sign of anemia, so I am going to bring it up to my Dr. at my next appointment and see what he says. For now, I'll enjoy my refreshing ice :)

Symptoms: The Heartburn has been coming and going, and hasn't been TOO bad... but the nausea is coming and going as well, which is definitely not fun. Hopefully it will stay away more often than not :-/

Until next time :) 

Mini-Update :)

As I grace the 29-week point in my pregnancy, I wanted to take a moment to update you on my most recent Doctor's appointment this past week.

On Tuesday, I visited with my OB for my 28 week check up. It was the usual visit, starting out with a little pee in a cup, checking blood pressure, getting weighed, and then going in to wait on the Doctor. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE my OB??? He is amazing :) This all took 30 minutes, including my time with him :)

Anyway, I found out that I passed my Glucose Tolerance test with a score of 124 (and thank GOD I did, because I thought I was going to pass out when I did the normal 1-hour test). The nurse says there was a little sugar in my urine, but nothing to be alarmed about at this point... I had breakfast kind of late that morning, and it probably translated into the pee. I am up a total of 22lbs (2 since my Glucose test), so that is going well also. Blood pressure was also good and steady, as it has been :)

When the Doctor came in, he did his usual rounds... he asked me how I felt, to which I replied, "good!" since I actually am feeling pretty good, for the most part. He then proceeded to measure my fundal height, which must've been fine, because he didn't say anything (he rarely does about this). Then, he pulled out the doppler and we heard the little guy's heart beat. That's my favorite part ;) He told me everything is going fine, and to keep it up! He also told me that if anything happens, or whatever, to call him first, NOT to just go to the Hospital. I have been feeling fine, so I don't feel like I've needed to (Thank GOD).

Well, that's about it, for now... My next appointment will be in 4 weeks, on September 4th (just after the Baby Shower). By then we should be able to iron out a Birth Plan, and do my Hospital pre-registration, etc.

I am getting more and more excited every day!!!! :) :) :)

Until next time ;)

Well, Hello 3rd Trimester :)

Moving right along, beginning the 3rd and Final "phase" of my Pregnancy... Here's the low-down on what I'm currently experiencing ;) 

How far along: 28 weeks 2 days! :)

Total weight change: Will see where we are currently at after tomorrow's OB appointment... Hopefully we're still on target :) As of last time, it was +18 

Maternity clothes: As I said last time, I don't own too much maternity clothes, but hardly any of my "regular" clothes fit anymore, so you can pretty much say I'm in "maternity" clothes. Dresses, leggings, stretch pants, etc... Comfy :) I have one pair of pre-pregnancy jeans that fit (they were HUGE on me, so they still work) and some tops that were loose which still fit and will help me get through the first weeks of the school year until the Baby is here :)

Stretch Marks: I'm turning into a Zebra "/ I don't mind completely, but I have to admit... at times, I feel unattractive. Have to start thinking about what I can do to take care of them... if anything at all. 

Movement: He is moving a lot lately! Sometimes I feel like I have a future World Cup player in there ;) It's a pretty awesome feeling. 

Sleep: Thankfully, I'm still on Summer break, so I am getting sleep... I hope to be able to stay rested when I go back to work next week... we'll see how that goes. It's going to be rough in this South Florida heat... "/

Best Moment This Past Week: A few good things have happened lately... (1) the Baby Shower invitations were put in the mail and went out today (2) our Stroller and Infant Carrier arrived (we got this AWESOME deal on the Britax B-Ready and Chaperone where the Infant Car Seat was FREE with the Purchase of the stroller, AND I got $100 off the stroller... so we saved a total of $329 on the travel system. This was a gift from my two sets of Grandparents. 

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: The return of some not-so-fun symptoms. For the last week, I've been getting sick again and running to the bathroom to toss my cookies. It hasn't been fun "/ Also, realizing that Summer Vacation is almost over isn't cool... but I guess it had to end sometime. 

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but definitely not as deep as before. It's getting more shallow each day... lol

Cravings/Aversions: McDonald's cheeseburgers... Yup. It's like a pregnancy obsession. I RARELY ever ate them before. So weird... 

Symptoms: The Heartburn has been coming and going, and hasn't been TOO bad... but the nausea is back, and not fun at all. I am trying to get ahold of it before going back to work... so we'll see how it goes. 

My Baby Shower is scheduled for September 1st, at 32 weeks. I am SUPER excited! We are having it at a very nice restaurant here in Miami, and are having a "Cirque du Bebe" Theme. It's going to be AMAZING and I am so excited. Now that the invitations have gone out... it's registry stalking time ;) something even Mr. DBud enjoys! I have already seen a few items be "fulfilled" off our list, so that's always fun to see :)

Anyway, will have an update after tomorrow's appointment... hopefully we'll start ironing out our Birth Plan and such :) Can you tell I'm excited? 

Until next time :)

Oh BOY!!! 27 weeks!

Believe it or not... Sometimes, I still can't believe I am pregnant. I think anyone who's ever struggled with any sort of infertility can relate. Heck, if women who get KU easily are sometimes still shocked by the fact that they are actually expecting, can you imagine those of us who've dealt with IF? It's such an amazing feeling... One I hope ALL of our readers may be able to experience at some point. I count my blessings each day, and am ECSTATIC about meeting our Son in October :)

Nothing major has changed lately... As I prepare to wave goodbye to the 2nd trimester, I find myself feeling relatively good. My only main "complaints" (and I put that in quotes because, considering how lucky I am, I'm not actually complaining) are the pain in my tailbone and the heartburn/reflux. So, really, things are pretty good. I hope and pray that things continue to progress as nicely as they have.

Baby Shower plans are underway, and being the Party-planning person I am, I have my hand in it a bit... But I am yielding to the real planners, my Mom and her good friend who also helped immensely with my Wedding. The Theme is going to be amazing, and the location is ultra-FABULOUS! I truly can't wait :) We are scheduling the festivities for September 1st! Mr. DBud is also going to enjoy his own festivities by having a "Men Only Diaper Party". He's going to relax with his boys at the shooting range, followed by food and drinks at Hooter's. All in all, I am sure it'll be a great day for everyone involved and everyone participating.

My next appointment is on August 7th, and I am sure the Dr. and I will begin seeing more of each other afterwards, since I'll officially be in the 3rd trimester.

Aside from everything else that's been going on, Mr. DBud and I ordered our stroller today :) my two sets of grandparents contributed some cash so that we could take advantage of a GREAT deal (which is ending July 31st) buybuybaby has... Purchase the Britax B Ready stroller and get an infant carrier FREE ($229.99 value). We also used a Bed Bath & Beyond coupon saving us an ADDITIONAL $100! All in all, we got out entire travel system for $400 plus tax. I am one happy Mommy-to-Be. We ordered the B Ready stroller in Silver along with the Chaperone infant car seat in silver and black. Very fab :) I am in LOVE with buybuybaby.

But that's not the only baby gift off our registry we received ;) a good friend of mine, who recently signed with a major league baseball team, sent us our Chicco Polly Highchair in "Romantic". It was extremely sweetie him, and we are thrilled!!!

What an exciting time... And this is only the beginning! Can't wait to meet our son :)

Until next time ;)





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Back from a slight hiatus... 26w2d

Sorry for pulling a little "disappearing act" since my last post... but we had a family Wedding in Georgia, which we turned into a little, much needed, vacation. Here are my updates :)


How far along: 26 weeks 2 days (3 days as of Tuesday, but as of now it's late Monday night for me). On the verge of the 3rd trimester :) :) :)

Total weight change: Same as last time... will have an update after my next Dr. appointment on the 7th of August, since that's the only place I'm getting weighed. 

Maternity clothes: I don't own too much maternity clothes, but none of my "regular" clothes fit anymore, so you can pretty much say I'm in "maternity" clothes. Dresses, leggings, stretch pants, etc... Comfy :)

Stretch Marks: I'm turning into a Zebra "/

Movement: He is moving a lot lately! Mr. DBud FINALLY felt him move last Wednesday at the hotel in Orlando on the way home. His face was priceless :) Today, he moved a lot as well. He's getting stronger, and his movements are becoming much more obvious. 

Sleep: Thankfully, I'm still on Summer break, so I am getting sleep... I hope to be able to stay rested when I go back to work in a few weeks... we'll see how that goes.

Best Moment This Past Week: I've had a few good moments lately... we had a great vacation, which was very well deserved, but when we got back, it's been all "baby". We started working on the nursery (more seriously) and got things much more organized. We finally decided on the furniture (Bonavita Metro collection  crib, dresser/changer and nightstand), and finished working on our registry (for the most part). But best of all was Mr. DBud feeling our son move :) That was totally amazing. I honestly almost cried. 

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: The week before my trip, on the 10th, I needed to go into my Dr.'s office to have my glucose tolerance test. People talked to me about the glucola you have to drink, and mentioned different things, but I was ok with all of it. The morning came, and I headed over to take care of business. The nurse gave me the orange glucola which I chugged like a champ, and sent me into the waiting room for the dreaded 1 hour wait. Well, within minutes of sitting out there, I started feeling weird. Then, weird turned to outright bad, and I swear... I almost passed out right then and there! It was the WORST feeling ever. I got so worried, and texted my Husband. I honestly thought I was going to black out. Thankfully, before I went in for the blood draw, I felt fine... but then, she couldn't find my vein (first time EVER!). She finally did the draw, and then told me that if I failed, I would get a call by Friday or the following Monday. NO CALL! Woohoo!!!! I'm so happy, because I totally thought that due to my reaction, I had miserably failed. Thank GOD everything is going well :)

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but definitely not as deep as before. So strange! I wonder how much longer it'll stay this way ;)

Cravings/Aversions: I craved candy the other day... which is weird, cause I never do. Other than that, nothing really... still loving those McDonald's cheeseburgers, though. 

Symptoms: MAJOR heartburn. Holy cow!!!!! Slight swelling in hands (can't wear engagement ring anymore, only wedding band) and swelling of the feet which comes and goes depending on what type of day I had and whether or not I've had a chance to raise my feet or not. 


Baby Shower plans are currently underway, so that is also keeping us quite busy... it's amazing how time starts to fly by after week 20! I can't wait to meet our little man in October!!!!! 


Also, one of my best friends just announced her pregnancy this past week :) I couldn't be happier for both of them!! This makes the journey that much more exciting... and more so now that I just found out ANOTHER friend is pregnant :) BABIES EVERYWHERE!!! WOOHOO!!!!!!


Until next time :)

23w5d and going strong!

It honestly seems as though I get busier when I am on vacation... Things have been hectic! When it's not one thing, it's another. I am actually sitting in a rehearsal now! Crazy... But, anyway, I have some updates! :) Here we go:

How far along: 23w5d!!

Total weight change: +18 total, based on Doctor's office scale. My thoughts? YIKES!!! Dr. C, however, is very happy with my progress. I'll go with that. ;)

Maternity clothes: The only thing "maternity" I have purchased has been a belly band, which I haven't used in a while, along with some fold over maternity yoga pants that I love. Still, I feel most comfortable in leggings, stretchy pants and dresses.

Stretch Marks: Yes, unfortunately :( I feel as if I am going to be a zebra by the time this is over... But, I guess us Mommies have to earn our stripes somehow ;) I'll get over it...

Movement: This has definitely become a pretty regular thing, and I am loving it. He's a pretty active little guy :) Daddy hasn't felt him yet, but he is being felt from the outside more and more these days.

Sleep: It has it's moments... I have to get up and use the restroom between two to three times a night, but I am getting a lot of sleep thanks to being on vacation, so that's definitely a plus :)

Best Moment This Past Week: The increased movement is definitely awesome. We also had another ultrasound for specific anatomy things which was nice. Also, my Dr. is very happy with how things are going and told me to continue doing whatever I am, do that made me happy :)

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Family issues with a great-uncle who is not doing well, and my mom stressing me out about gaining weight since I started out so "big" as she says. I know she is just concerned, but stressing me out when things are going well doesn't help.

Belly Button In or Out: In. Not as deep as before, but in. :)

Cravings/Aversions: McDonald's Cheeseburgers (I know... Bad) and for some reason I really wanted fettuccine from Olive Garden. Other than that, nothing major.

Symptoms: A little back pain, and pain in my tailbone, along with some wicked heartburn EVERY night. That's about it, I think... Oh, did I mention some memory loss? LoL!!

Here is a picture of our little man, sucking his thumb, from our last US




Until next time :)




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21w5d :)

Here is another update and a new US pic!

How far along: 21 weeks 5 days!

Total weight change: +14 total, based on Doctor's office scale (yikes!) But nurse said I was fine, and Dr. C had nothing to say about it... Just have to make sure I don't gain too much more, especially since I started out overweight. Next appointment is July 5th :)

Maternity clothes: For the most part, I am staying away from actual maternity clothes... I got some stretch yoga pants at old navy which happened to be Maternity (this particular store has a small Maternity section), but the rest of the stuff I've been wearing has been stretch pants, leggings, dresses, and the only pair of jeans that still fit, and look like they'll fit for a while longer :)


Stretch Marks: Yes, same as before, unfortunately :(

Movement: As predicted in my last post, this has definitely increased! He is moving a lot more regularly now :) I am actually really looking forward to Mr. DBud being able to feel his movements.

Sleep: Still love my Boppy Total Body Pillow! :) :) :) Woke up with a headache today, but I have a feeling it was just an "off" day.

Best Moment This Past Week: Having more regular movement, and getting a chance to see him at our 21w4d ultrasound :)

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Getting sick both Monday and Tuesday morning of this week... Not fun :( oh, and the WICKED heartburn I've been having.

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but not as deep as it used to be... and we've got linea nigra! Mine starts way above my belly button and then continues down under, and is still kind of light... but Mr. DBud noticed it :)

Cravings/Aversions: Same as before... Pizza from this place nearby called "Roman's" and strawberries :) I'm also loving my Ham&Cheese hot pockets, and LOVE cereal :)

Symptoms: The swelling in my ankles has gone down, tremendously, but my heartburn has definitely increased, which sucks. I was also sick a couple times this week, which I mentioned above.

We had another anatomy scan this week, which was great! I have to go back again next week to have some more measurements... But everything looks good, so far! Here is a picture of our sweet baby :)




Until next time :)



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19w3d and doing fine :)

It's been a while since I've come around... But, with this being the end of the school year, things have continued to be hectic! I am definitely looking forward to Summer break and a little R&R. Still, I will be very busy getting the nursery cleaned out and starting to prepare that, as well as helping with Baby Shower plans and everything in between...

Here is what is currently going on:

How far along: 17 weeks, 3 days!!

Total weight change: +6 total, based on Doctor's office scale. We have no scale at home... Have to wait until my next weigh in, which will be tomorrow!

Maternity clothes: Same as last time... The only thing "maternity" I have purchased has been a belly band, which I use with most of my jeans... I have one pair of jeans left that fit comfortably, because they were huge on me pre-pregnancy... but ALL others are either too tight or don't close at all. I feel most comfortable in leggings, stretchy pants and dresses. I need to do a little shopping...

Stretch Marks: Yes, same as before, unfortunately :( I bought some "Bio Oil" which has come highly recommended for this "issue", and I am hoping it works. It does smell nice, though :) So far, so good!

Movement: None, that I've noticed... But I have a feeling these gasses and other little funny feelings may be the start of some noticeable movement ;)

Sleep: Still love my Boppy Total Body Pillow! :) :) :)

Best Moment This Past Week: Finding out that our integrated screenings all came back normal, and getting to see our little boy again :) the anatomy scan went really well, and apparently he was already weighing 10oz!

Most Difficult Moment This Past Week: Tossing my ENTIRE breakfast this morning, and then continuing to feel like garbage afterwards. Thank you to saltine crackers and sprite!

Belly Button In or Out: Still in, but not as deep as it used to be...

Cravings/Aversions: Pizza from this place nearby called "Roman's" and strawberries :)

Symptoms: Occasionally tired, but I blame that on things being so hectic... MS has died down a bit (aside from that episode I had), so I am hoping it is gone for good. Boobies are currently not sore, but huge!

Here are some shots from our last ultrasound at 8w4d :) next one is on June 20th!!!













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