a baby story...

Recap: We closed on our new home Friday at lunch time. Moved Saturday. Miles was born Monday Dec 14th at 8:20am.

Contractions started officially at 11pm Sunday night, but were increasing all day Sunday.
So, we were playing Yahtzee at 10ish and I was up after every turn, rolling my hips around and pretty uncomfortable. After Matt slaughtered me I said I better get to bed in case I had a baby the next day...So at 11pm we went to bed. I was up about every 10 min, moving my hips around, squatting, etc. Finally at 2am, sleep wasn't really happening due to the painful interruptions-so I called the midwives. Roswitha called back and said there wasn't much to do till the contractions were 5 min apart...drink a beer and get some rest she said.

So, I started trying to time them around 2:30. They were 4-5-8 min apart. So I figured I still had plenty of time till they got more consistent. Still, up every 5 min or so, rolling the pelvis, sitting on the toilet, moaning, walking around the house and reading up on early labor (maybe should have done that sooner?:) The beer made me feel nauseous.

At 6am I was a mess-moaning so loud Matt would wake with each one, stroke me and tell me to try and relax as best I could. HA. He was helpful though, because at least I was focused on him and not the pain, entirely. I COULD NOT relax at that point, probably because I had, unknowingly, reached transition, where relaxing during contractions is no use... I was pushing with each one.

My water broke at 7:15 am and Matt called the ABC again. I got the phone and told Roswitha I felt like I needed to push with each one. She said, GET IN THE CAR! So, we pull up to the ABC at 7:45am and 5 pushes later, Miles is out at 8:20am. Oh MY goodness. It was so fast. I didn't even have time to get in the tub like I wanted.

He weighed 8lbs 4oz and was 21 1/4 in long. He has hair everywhere and Paul Boudreau lips:)

I am still pretty tired and have yet to really process the miracle of labor. But I know two things 1. it was really hard 2. I did it!

We are IN love with Miles. He is so.so. cute, even when his face is red mid-scream. He is sleeping now and I probably should be too. But today is Christmas eve and who can sleep this day away?! We are so grateful!

39 weeks

How far along? 39weeks
Sleep: up at least 3x/night
Best moment this week: getting a great deal on Craigslist for our new living room furniture!
Movement: some *tiny* contractions added to the usual feet and body parts jabbing at my sides
Food cravings: milk to quell heartburn! peppermints...which ironically make heartburn worse!
What I miss: my old wardrobe. I am seriously down to only a few shirts that make it over my belly and they are almost ALL black. I am not in mourning, just HUGE! I almost looked at Target yesterday, but cannot seriously justify buying ANY more maternity clothes at this point:)
What I am looking forward to: MOVING! Lord willing, this weekend.
Weekly Wisdom: I am going to get huge-well you know, so the boy can come out! Thanks to some Ina May wisdom, I've been re-encouraged that my body really was made to do this labor thing and I'll be up for task when it's time.

Some other books that have been helpful so far:
The Pregnancy Book: Month-by-Month, Everything You Need to Know From America's Baby Experts

On Becoming Babywise: Giving Your Infant The Gift of Nighttime Sleep

Birthing from Within: An Extra-Ordinary Guide to Childbirth Preparation

this one encouraged me to walk daily; it's pretty much the solution to every prego ailment:
Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition

Of course, they almost ALL come at child rearing and birth from DIFFERENT perspectives, making it a bit confusing to know what's the *right* thing to do, but at the same time, I like reading about the extreme perspectives and knowing that we'll settle into whichever form of parenting and birth that works for us, ultimately.

I realized yesterday that the ABC folks are definitely attachment parenting, natural child birthing, non circumcising, co sleeping hippies! haha. Obviously, we share many of the same values or we wouldn't be having our baby there, but still, we are not that extreme.

We had an appointment with Roswitha yesterday and saw another Hope Chapel couple leaving as we came! Hope people LOVE the ABC:) I weighed in the same as last week, mercifully, since Roswitha doesn't miss a thing when it comes to weight gain! But, she was encouraging that I am still within their 'normal' range. I mean, what God-fearing, holiday party going American doesn't gain 5lbs during Dec anyway? For crying out loud! I wish everyone had to 'weigh in' every week during the holidays!

Ok, there is sort of malfunction w/ the camera at the moment...pics to come shortly.

38 weeks

So, its 38 weeks. Here's the update:



Weight gain: 32#



Cravings: pumpkin bread.



Physically: TIRED! I think I slept through the night a couple of weeks ago, but it's a distant memory. I've read/heard that my body is preparing for the 2 hr feedings by waking every two hours to pee. Great...using the eye cream early...



Emotionally: excited=to meet Miles. very thankful=for the new house! scared=of what labor will REALLY be like.



Next Prenatal Appt: Wed at 3pm, depending on when we close, this may change.



We hope to start cleaning by Thurs/Fri and have a great move (as in moving our bed and baby stuff:) Sat and Sun. Things are about to start happening fast! But, I am consicously taking it slow and packing up things very slowly, getting naps and walks in daily and eating lots of greens and smoothies, playing yahtzee and watching West Wing to force myself to rest!



And now we wait....

37 weeks

work shower: As you can see, I was stunned at all the gifts they gave me!

Here is Adina; we've been talking about babies for 9 months now!

opening gifts:

One of the professors; he's very excited about those shirts:)

Ok, updates:

1. We met with Joan for our 37 wk appt. last week. She suggested lying on my right side may help Miles turn the correct way and prepare for descent!

She also told me some exercises I should do to help his position: pelvic rocks, free style swimming and laying on a yoga ball...

2. We will own a house soon!

3. have I mentioned that my folks living room is FULL of baby stuff...

So, I swam with my mom for 40 min on Saturday and otherwise, have taken the holiday off of exercising...Yesterday I hit the treadmill for a slow walk.

In the meantime, I'm packing, making sure I've got the basic 'essentials' washed and ready should he come early. I just need to pick up a stroller this week with the rest of Babies R Us gift cards and then I am pretty sure the rest of the baby goods can wait...or will be handed down eventually.

Here is a fun picture of my morning ritual: the green goblin. I recently admitted to wearing ear muffs in the early am hours when I am concocting this drink in the garage; my mom insisted I show this to the blog world:):

I am trying not to smile here:

Ok, we have our next ABC appt Wed...stay tuned!

36 wks

So, today I can have my baby at the Austin Area Birthing Center.

However, today I will most likely NOT have my baby there. I mean, I am only 36 wks.:)

Today I am having a baby shower at work. They are placing bets on my actual deliver date.

I have definitely felt "showered" the past weeks-with supplies and encouragement! It has been amazing! I mean, I went from having almost having nothing but a baby bathtub, bassinet and a few onesies, to having a crib, changing table, TONS of diapers (regular and cloth), clothes and all sorts of other things to help with little Miles.

On the pregnancy front, I feel huge and am having trouble climbing the stairs! I have gained 27.5 lbs so far. Miles' heart rate was in the 130s on Tuesday at our last appt and Roswitha said his head felt very low; which is good news! I'm still walking on the treadmill, but have also been having a harder time eating healthy. I mean, I have my routine where I get lots of fruits and veggies daily-but in the in between times, I finally understand why people just eat sweets-and lots-while pregnant! I think my appetite has increased since Miles has started putting on more weight and it's a force of will to not just eat junk when that hunger doesn't seem to go away:)

We also met with Nicole and talked about some expectations and fears during labor. Our homework was to think about the logistics of post partum and who will be doing what...etc. On that note, Matt is a really great husband. For example, he shot a buck that was smaller than he'd hoped for, just so we (mostly me) wouldn't feel stressed for the rest of hunting season about him needing 'the buck'. I know he is going to be a really great dad and a great coach/help to me.

In other news, we are buying a house! We hope to close Dec 15th (two days before the due date). It's crazy to think about moving into a house and having a new baby and realizing there is a chance it could happen at.the.same.time! But, it's all the best kind of change=family and provision for a house, two big blessings!

So, before all the pandemonium breaks loose, we just wait and get ready (as best we can) for all the stuff ahead. It's definitely a frustrating spot for me, but I am practicing patience and trying to think of things I can do now to be more prepared in 3 wks.

Pics from shower #1

Jessica, Catherine and ILynn, Mom and I

More pics to come; they are upstairs on my dad's computer and like I said, the stairs are just not that easy these days:)...

34 wks

Well, its definitely going downhill at this point! The weeks are passing faster and now it's only approx 6 weeks till Miles could come! Wow. I am realizing that labor is imminent. He's going to come out, no matter what!
A good quote

"There is no way out of the experience except through it"--Penelope Leach, Your Baby and Child

A couple of nights ago I was leaving the gym and recalling my Danskin Triathlon experience. It was really powerful, because I gained confidence (from band-nerd to semi-athlete?). Well, at least I felt like an athlete by completing the triathlon. I did things I NEVER thought I could do and I did them pretty well (well the swim and biking anyway:).

So, back to my revelation. The prospect of GIVING birth seems less intimidating after doing things that are scary/hard (triathlons and other life experiences) and succeeding. It's like each of these things that you conquer prepares you for the next one and the one after that. All the while knowing that Christ gives us grace and strengthens us for the task at hand. And that we CAN do all things through him who gives us strength!

Of course, after taking our Bradley class, reading books and hearing/watching labors and knowing that I must do it, all help a lot:)

So, all that to say, lately I've been feeling really optimistic about birth/labor etc. Mandy's words have stuck in my mind and Matt reiterates them daily "I can do this!"

I felt some *real* contractions last week and last night. They are subtle still, but uncomfortable for a moment.

So, it's been about two weeks of going to the gym everyday and walking briskly for 30 min. This week I added some tiny weights...my back has felt MUCH better and I can feel my muscles strengthening with the consistency.

Other than that, I've been on a craft, Christmas mission:

This is a banner I made for above the crib: (I am also wearing my first (and likely last) attempt at a baby sling. It was TOO small.)

Yesterday we met with Roswitha, Matt's favorite. He likes he cause she is German, matter of fact and for some reason he takes pleasure in the fact that I'm terrified of her hands digging into my abdomen to find out where the baby is located! She was pushing to find out how he was positioned and he started moving and kicking and she said "ok, well now he's just getting angry"-which in a German accent was very comical:)To make sure Miles was still head down, she pulled on the ultrasound machine! What a treat! He is head down and doing great.

My blood pressure is good at 116/72 and I gained 4 pounds since our last visit. At first she did her insecurity-inducing German-grimace when I said my weight, but then she looked at the last few visits and realized I hadn't gained any last time, so in theory I was making up for the last 4 weeks w/ the four pounds. Ahh, it's so intense to have to 'weigh in' and stare at the scale is disbelief! stressful!

Rowitha and Matt:

The ABC:

34wks!:

Matt's about to explode cause deer season opens Saturday. Him and his skull?:

Next week, we'll meet with our doula, Nicole, and talk more about labor! She's coming to our house to get the lay of the land in the event that I labor there for awhile. We are really grateful to have someone we know to help keep us both focused.

And the house search continues. We've found one that *might* be the one, but we're taking a 2nd look on Mon. Though this is not the ideal time to move, we're trusting God that he's gonna make a way...and it will all work out:)

Tomorrow my mother in law and her close friend Esther fly into Austin for the family baby shower! It will be so fun to catch up with them and celebrate Miles:) Every time I get clothes or supplies for him, it just makes it so much more real that he's a little person and he'll be here soon! It is so fun.

32 wks

Here is our Bradley class! We are done!! well, all except the 2 classes we missed...but we'll see:)

Last night we watched a video of several Brazilian women giving birth in the squatting position. It looked pretty easy for them. I have become so curious about birth in other cultures...I went to the PCL to find some books on childbirth and labor in Asian/African cultures, but they were all mis-shelved, so I left empty handed. Later, I did get the La Leche Leagues The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding for some American perspective. But the La Leche folks are a bit fringe...they have some extreme ideas. I am not sure how I feel about it yet.

Ok, so Bradley recap. As boring, graphic, late at night and far away as our class was, I do think it was worth it. Last night was my favorite, as the whole time she talked about ways to save $ and why having a child DOES NOT take $250,000 from birth to college (excluding the birth and the college:).

Our teacher talked about all the ways to save $ (cloth diapers, making your own baby food, not buying into all the unnecessary things Babies R us tries to sell you like diaper warmers etc.:) It was inspiring, as I find most budget talk to be!


And, we just returned from our appt at the ABC. We met the newest midwife, Sarah. Miles is head down and has a great heart beat. Everything is good!

thanks for reading. more news to come!

30 wks

30 weeks! wow. 6 more weeks till delivery is allowed at the ABC!
I had my glucose test last week and passed and had good iron levels.

Weight gain: 22#

Cravings: nothing that's overpowering or even consistent. sometimes i think about cinnabon, but i used to do that anyway...yesterday i was thinking about Ceci's mac and cheese w/ breadcrumbs and it sounded amazing. i've been trying to eat lots of fruit and veggies smoothies + soups and grilled cheese.

Physically: my back hurt unbelievably for two weeks! BUT yesterday we took the memory foam OFF our bed and miraculously I am already so.much.better. I've been sitting at my desk since 8am and have only had incidental pain from not getting up enough. i can't stand memory foam!!
Oh, because of the ridiculous policy change at UT, I dropped my swim class. So, I am trying to swim and walk at home.

Emotionally: pretty stable so far...the emotional-ness of the 1st trimester may be slipping back in, but so far, not too bad:) it's a little stressful contemplating having a baby in the middle of moving, but I know it will be ok, despite less than ideal circumstances:)

Next Prenatal Appt: Oct 21st @ 2:30p

Other: Baby showers seem kinda awkward to me, but I am really excited about having them. I didn't realize that I like to be prepared, but I can't wait to be stocked and ready to go. I keep thinking that he'd better not come early, b/c i have nothing ready (as in, own nothing for taking care of a baby)!!
-also, I've been trying to direct my 'nesting' desires into crafty things for a someday nursery... and somehow I've made like a quart of chicken stock, a gallon ziplock of veggie stock and tons of pesto all sitting in the freezer. I just seem to be on the homemaking kick. Tomorrow is canning!
-Miles is moving a lot these days. Our midwife yesterday, Roswitha, said she thinks he's curled in an C shape, and just needs to slide into the right position in the next few weeks. In the next weeks they'll be able to tell more of where he's at and if I need to do headstands in the pool or something to help him flip:)

And finally, someone asked me why I'd rather birth at a birthing center vs. hospital. I guess I went into this pregnancy not even considering hospitals, so I'm not sure if I've ever mentioned why I prefer the birthing center...
Anyway, the things I love about the birthing center are:
1. birth in not viewed as an emergency, but a natural, normal thing
2. they are super laid back (hence, the lack of emergency) and try all sorts of positions and natural pain relief tactics throughout labor
3. there isn't an inherent rush to have your baby. They want the baby to be ready and labor to be natural.
4. They are ex-labor and delivery staff, so they know their stuff and are trained for any and all emergencies
5. they are super sweet and personal and approach your pregnancy from a holistic perspective (like what are you eating, are you stressed, how much weight is healthy to gain, etc).
ok, just in case you were wondering, that's why I want to have my baby there. I'm not living in a fantasy world, so I know things can go wrong and so do the midwives, so we of course will do what is best for Miles when it comes down to it, but Lord willing, we'll get to deliver there!!

This t-shirt was a 2yr anniversary present from Matt; finally UT maternity! We got to celebrate last weekend at a beautiful lake house.

3rd trimester! (27 weeks)

3rd Trimester! New shirt from Lynn and flowers from my mom!

resolution?

The yield !!

So, it's been awhile...I am officially 3rd trimester! Some updates:

1. I just went through a growth spurt...my 'normal' shirts got the boot and are bagged up.

2. I turned 27 on Tues!

3. I've had a cold/sinus infection attack for a week now! (the midwife said it will take 2x as long to recover from when pregnant:(=no sugar, no dairy, lots of fruits and veggies, eucalyptus steam inhalations, ginger, lemon, honey drinks and the netti pot galore!...happy bday to me:/

4. We've made it to two of our Bradley classes and learned a lot. Nutrition, exercises, relaxation techniques etc. We skipped last night cause of colds + birthday...

5. It rained in Austin for almost SIX days in a row!! (this just in, 40% chance of rain tom). Due to that blessed event, I got tons of okra, jalapenos and beans (see pic above).

6. Miles kicked me HARD today! It was one of the first ones that made me exclaim verbally.

So, that's the news for now. In two weeks I'll take my glucose test for gestational diabetes and after that I'll be on a every two week schedule for our midwife appts. It's getting close! We have two doula's (those are the labor coaches that basically just help you stay comfy, relaxed and focused in labor; they are my insurance of support in case Matt passes out and will hopefully keep us both more calm) lined up since our birth is near the holidays, just so we have better coverage, depending on when Miles decides to come out...

Oh! and our Bradley teacher, Chan, went on this long rant last time about how today women are super eager to get the baby out as soon after 36 weeks as possible, but actually every day or week more the baby has in the womb is very helpful for maturing and being ready for life on the outside. So basically, be patient and let the baby come whenever they are ready...(vs induction or something...) And she also talked about how the due date tells very little about when the babe will come as well...great:/

photos-6 months

6 month belly! Matt says it's the size of a soccer ball and babycenter.com agrees. Miles is a little over 1 lb and a foot long! Last night we had a delightful dinner at Chee Zee and then went to see Wicked. Since I ate too much (normally not a big deal on a fun night out, but painful when pregnant) the first Act, I had to focus way too much on breathing and NOT panicking at the tight theater quarters (being in between two large, leggy people). By the end I was doing ok and at intermission I got to stand outside in the rain!

It was a great show and such a fun experience! Matt planned it all as a surprise!

ok, back to work.

till next week.

24 weeks!

OK, so I am a little behind. Since the last post, lots has happen.

First, we met with a possible doula-to-be. The slight problem with our birth is that I am due on Dec 17th. A week late (totally normal for first timers) puts us at Christmas Eve!! Yeah, not exactly the easiest time to get someone to work! I mean, Miles most likely NOT going to come on his due date...so the question is WHEN?? :)

We both felt great about our first doula interview, great enough to forgo the rest of the 'interview's' and go with her...but then there holiday issue, so we may need to find a back up..Details to come.

Next, our last appt at the ABC went great. We met Annabelle, who set both of us at ease instantly! She was very encouraging about the pregnancy concerns I had and reassuring that I am not actually hurting Miles if I end up on my back in the middle of the night:) So that was a relief! In a few weeks I do my gestational diabetes test...

Also, Matt has been coaching me through breathing exercises lately. Sometimes, if my clothes are too tight or I've been in the car for a while or stuck at my computer ALL DAY, I start feel anxious and realize that I can no longer take deep breaths like I used to...sacrificing lung space for the little guy:) Its is VERY stressful when I start thinking & thinking about it. BUT luckily Matt is a GREAT coach and can transport me mentally if I just close my eyes and focus on whatever imaginary situation he's coaxing me through...its very sweet:) Also we've been going to the pool several times a week; swimming and 'jogging' and talking..Its very relaxing and feels wonderful to be weightless!

Also, I've been trying to walk the days we don't swim. According to most medical journals...or every website on pregnancy...almost EVERY pregnancy problem can be solved/reduced by walking a mile a day. Which on the treadmill in the AC is a piece of cake! So, I am trying to stay on top of that, even when it's painful to go. My swim class starts tomorrow at UT. I've found a teacher who is very sympathetic toward the 'pregnant' and will make some accommodations from the usual rigorous class pace. I'm so thankful!

As far as food goes, here's the latest treats:

-fried eggs on whole wheat english muffins (like several a day...)

-veggie wraps (whole wheat tortilla, guac, mushrooms, spinach, sprouts)

-peanuts/almonds

-LARABARS!!! too bad they are 1.4/each!

-sweet potatoes

-any and all soups (esp tomato basil)

-Dove peanut butter chocolates, that are apparently off limits since I lack self control in this area...

I am trying to keep the ratio healthy, but definitely 'craving' or greatly wanting treats. But I can tell my body is rejecting them (headaches, feeling sluggish) even though I think I want them so badly. Matt and I are both trying to integrate more raw foods into our diets. Starting the day with 32oz of water, then a huge bowl of fruit is undeniably a great way to start the day! But, I am keeping everything pretty normal + lots of fruit and veggies.

We are dressing up for dinner and the Broadway show "Wicked" tonight, so picture to come tomorrow. I promise!

22 weeks

Photo from 21 weeks. I am finally FEELING pregnant. As in large, awkard, having difficulty in picking objects off the floor, trouble getting comfy to sleep, etc. I just can't wait to see this little human that's inside of me. I've got some great maternity clothes passed down (thx Mandy & Ceci) and new stuff from Lynn and Mom, so hopefully I am set. Not sure how big of a jacket I'll need by Dec, but maybe it won't even be cold yet, knowing the TX weather...

We have some exciting appts this week, so I'll keep it short today and repost at the end of the week with any updates. By the way, for the those who've asked, Husband Coached Birthing is, so far, the BEST book I've read on labor. The more I read, the calmer I feel. PLUS talking to Mandy post-labor has also helped a lot; to know that it's very, very hard, but very doable! yay. over half way till show time:)

Here's what Miles looks like this week:

21 weeks

I should have invested in a digital camera by now...pics to come.

so, 21 weeks feels similar to 20 wks. Although some notable changes:

-even MORE activity from little Miles

-getting out of bed is a tiny bit more difficult

-sleepings requires more pillows, so i don't end up stranded on my back in pain

-maternity clothes that used to be comfy, aren't!

Emotionally, I've been feeling really good. I am enjoying being pregnant soo much. My summer schedule has helped me get extra naps in and relax a lot. However, I am getting a little nervous about the fall. I'll be working lots more, have committments almost every evening and be growing a HUGE belly. So, I am registering for baby stuff this week to have one less thing to do in the coming months.

So, that's the update.

In other news, ZOE WAS FINALLY BORN> after 36 hrs of intense labor for Mandy (and Matt). She is BEAUTIFUL! I was amazed at how beautiful she already is?! I am so happy for Mandy that it.is.over!

Her labor was really, really good for me to be around for because 1. I will be birthing at the same place and 2. This is the first friend who has had a baby since I've gotten pregnant. It was a great (vicarious) experience:)

Zoe!

20 wks

EXCITING NEWS!

1st. it is a BOY!! we had our anatomy ultrasound last week and got to see Miles Paul Boudreauon the big screen! It was exhilarating. We cried.

2nd. His kicks and movements are officially consistent. I feel him when I drive, sit, and especially at night when I collapse into bed to read. Last night I saw his little movements rippling across my abdomen. wow!! Matt felt him kick for the first time last week. finally! It was amazing:)

3rd. I'm digging deeper into the realm of cloth diapers and am fascinated! Hopefully this week or next, mom and I will go to a class to get some last bits of info before I decided which kinds I'll try to use...I'm not a purist by any means...but you save.so.much.$$! ($1,900/kid with disposables VS $100/kid with cloth...and that's if you have 3 kids, which I'd like to have four (!) so let's call it $75/kid:) haha.

4th. I've signed us up for our Bradley class that starts Sept 1st. I've started reading the book Husband Coached Birthing and it's already helped to ease my fears about the foreboding world of labor and delivery. But, I know the class will help both of us be informed and therefore prepared for what's to come...in the only way we can at the point. Plus, we gotta take it to birth at the ABC.

5th. Zoe isn't here yet. !! Pray that Mandy will go in to labor soon!

here are some half way pics. 20 weeks yay!!

Miles 1st gift from Zoe! 

the GI Joe that came w/ the onesie...and some flowers Matt picked for me!

I can still see my feet...

20 wks...

18th wk-kick!

Hi Everyone, Saturday I felt the first 'official' movement!! It was very exciting:) Matt and I have our next appt this Friday and then soon after, we'll find out the gender. I have absolutely no gut instinct on this and am very very curious. I'm compiling a list of questions for our midwife (like, can i get on a plane in sept for our two yr anniversary??). Also, I've started to investigate doulas or a labor coach. The research about their services is compelling:
"-women who have continuous one-on-one support during labor tend to use pain medication less often
-have slightly shorter labors
- are less likely to have a c-section or a forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery.
If you're serious about trying to give birth without pain medication, a doula may be your best ally." babycenter.com

I can't think of anyone better than Matt to be my labor coach, seeing as he's the best coach (type personality-irrespective of sports) I know, but he's still not too sure of himself on the labor scene and historically doesn't do well in medically stressful situations. So, as a backup for him and a comfort to us both, I think it'd be wise to have a labor coach this time!
We'll meet with a few in the next month and make a decision before we start our Bradley class in Sept.
next post: Miles or Isabella!!!

16wks

The belly is coming along. Pants are.not.buttoning! I've started to invest in elastic clothing!
I had a job interview this morning. It would have been a great fit. maybe. But, I'm realizing that my decisions do not just affect me now, but this little guy/girl inside! Wow, parenthood. Life changing...

Malachi 2: 15
Has not the LORD made them one? In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring. So guard yourself in your spirit, and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.

Jess's pastor was talking about marriage and that the point is to produce godly children. Its the point! It reminded me of what we learned in Perspectives, about Abraham and his calling. It's an indicator that 'it' is not all about ME and my life, but about God getting all the worship that he deserves. So, we have children that will worship the Lord and will train their children and their children's children. Its about the generations and the gospel going forth...It's a very convicting and necessary point of view!

That concept (population growth for the glory of the Lord) is VERY counter -American- culture. Its irrespective of global warming, overpopulation, global hunger...all these fears that have reduced the population growth in America and Europe. [soap box-I'll spare you the rest...]
Anyway, I've always known that God loves family and that the family is being thwarted from every angle...Children are a blessing from the Lord: (Psalm 127:4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth.) They are gifts from God and we get to teach them about God and his kindness and might; it's just so overwhelming a task and opportunity!

ok, back to the pregnancy progress...
I'm feeling more and more new 'sensations' and strange feelings. I've tried laying super still, but am still not confident that I've actually felt a real baby movement yet...soon enough!
that's about all for now. oh yes, the photo of the green monster:


till next week!

15th week

So, I am in my 15th week!

And, amazingly, Matt has A negative blood!! yay!! no shots for me.:) We were both thrilled, relieved and so grateful to not have to go through that. Although modern medicine can set your mind at ease, its still annoying to have complications, etc.

So, onward thru the pregnancy! I bought some maternity shorts and ofcourse they are too big. The belly band helps with this clothing-awkard phase..holding on both big and small pants:)

This week has been Neighborhood Bible Clubs (our version of VBS) and I've been helping lead the songs at our club. Its has been really fun to get to know people I've gone to church with for years, and reach out to kids in their community that had never heard the gospel..ever! Needless to say, its taken all of my extra energy. Yesterday, I curled up in the darkest room in our house (thanks, rachie!) and slept for 2hrs straight...no problem! It felt great.

Lastly, my new favorite pregnancy food: GREEN monsters. Through a series of blog recommendations, I've finally tried this amazing drink. Even more amazing, Matt and I split it..he loves it! If you check out the recipe below, that means my husband is drinking approx 2 cups of spinach! I am so happy.:) And I just can feel the baby getting vitamins when I consume it...I'll post a picture next time.. here is the recipe:

Green Monsters: (Boudreau version)

1 c almond milk

1 frozen banana

1 spoonful almond butter

4 c fresh spinach

handful frozen blueberries
a few cubes of ice

that's all for now:) We have our next prenatal July 17th and shortly after that we find out the gender!

till next week,

13 weeks and 3 days (14 weeks?)

Hi All, Today was our 2nd prenatal visit to the Austin Area Birthing Center. Matt and I met Roswitha and she looked over my diet diary and said it looked good, especially the cheese and eggs (which is good, cause besides OHs! cereal, I feel like that is ALL I eat:) I gained 2 lbs since my last appt four weeks ago, which is good since its an average of a pound a week, but she said the baby will have growth spurts and some weeks you gain more than others. I need some bigger pants for sure!

And we got to hear a strong heartbeat today!!! 160 beat/min sounded like the galloping horses that people often compare it to. amazing! HE/SHE is in there and doing great:) This was our first time to hear it, since we just saw it last time, and it was very exciting to us both. We were both laughing in amazement!

The other big news from our appointment is that my blood type is O negative. This is a rarer blood type and we may need some extra precautions in week 28 if Matt is a positive blood type. So, he got his blood taken to see what we'll do next. I have some research to do, but if there is a chance the our baby will have a positive blood type (since I'm negative) they will give the me a preventative RhoGAM shot to ensure that my blood doesn't become hostile to the baby's, should they mix.

So other than that news, all is well. I am still pretty tired most of the time and must be vigilant about eating constantly to avoid feeling ill, but otherwise am getting more excited about being pregnant! I had my first baby dream last night and where I was holding the baby! I am working on a photo story for this pregnancy, so this looks more like a mug shot, but oh well...

till next week.

13 weeks

I am so tired! I feel like I could sleep all day long...or at least any moment now...at my desk.

Lately I've been feeling more pregnant; strange cramps that come on at random times, having to pee ALL the time, not being able to zip up ANY of my pants, eating constantly or else feeling the sudden drop in blood pressure and the IMMEDIATE need for food.

The other day I was remembering when Matt and I were in Pasadena, CA doing the Perspectives class with HSL and Joel's sister Leila was STARVING after church. We didn't know where we were or where to eat and everything in the area was super expensive. I remember the distress and panic in her eyes...and now I feel like I finally, truely understand.

Yesterday I had a tea/baklava with Jessica at the Ethiopian resturant. I had to go to the bathroom apprx. 4 times during our 2 hrs. there.

Saturday was Mandy's shower! It was so fun and so exciting to see all the stuff that Zoe will be using/wearing very soon. It does make it more real for everyone somehow, seeing all the 'stuff' for the new person.

Next Monday is my 2nd prenatal appt. I am keeping a food log this week...just ONE more thing to love about the Austin Birthing Center-they care about what you eat! They are so holistic in their approach...which makes sense and is so refresing!

Here is a pic of my belly last week. To be fair, I had just eaten A LOT, but still, things are growing! Miles or Isabella???!?

10 weeks

I finally had my first appointment at the Austin Area Birthing Center yesterday. I found out that I am only at 10 weeks, not 11 as I had previously thought...I had blood work and a whole physical exam...plus an ultrasound! They don't do them (ultrasounds) normally, but we weren't sure if we could hear a heartbeat at this point, so we opted for the ultrasound. Matt got there just in time and were able to see our little, little baby! The bright spot to the left of the circle was beating VERY fast...and we could see it pumping. It's little heart!!

It was very exciting to have some physical confirmation that he/she is there and is growing!

The morning sickness seems like it is waning. I am getting more energy slowly and am very excited to start prenatal yoga and swimming!

One final note from John Piper:

God Forms Persons (Psalm 139:13)
Another pointer (to the early church) was the profound conviction that what is happening in the womb is God’s unique and sacred person-forming work. Psalm 139:13 puts this in terms of God’s very hands-on work in the womb: “You formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.” This is God’s doing. Not ours. It is his to make. And his to end. (See also Job 31:13–15.)

(for more: http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/TopicIndex/47_Abortion/3528_The_Baby_in_My_Womb_Leaped_for_Joy/)

9 weeks...

I think I am in my 9th week...according to my calculations. If that is accurate then the baby is the size of a grape. Also in the 9th: "Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers, and the valves start to form — as do her tiny teeth"

amazing!! even more amazing that we-people, Americans, women-ME- don't know this stuff, the intimate details of life until it is happening to our bodies. I just find that wrong.

Not just because I am ignorant, which I am, but because desperate women do desperate things because of ignorance. Because someone told them, "it is not alive." It, meaning the life that is growing in their body!!

Before I was sick all day long, I would fantasize about having a conversation with someone about abortion, while I am with child. My goal is to use the ridiculous logic that if I was hit by a drunk driver, the driver would be charged with double homicide. But, if I wanted to get an abortion, no one would press charges. BUT, what about the double homicide? The driver that took TWO lives. Well suddenly, if I deem that second life 'burdensome' then its not a life. So the thing inside of me is defined by its termination. If I wanted it to be gone = not alive, if I had baby room plans and registries set up for the little tyke = alive. THE LOGIC HERE DOESN'T HOLD!!!

So, thanks for letting me practice and conversation I PRAY I get to have soon:)

Sleep, nausea, and garlic

Sleeping is what I did all day Saturday.
Nausea is what I feel if I'm not sleeping or nibbling on something at all times.
Garlic is my former adored homeopathic remedy, now turned nemesis....

I left work early on Friday. I really, really thought I needed to vomit. Alas, every time it has been a false alarm. I forced down food all day and felt better after each meal. It reminds me of when I was in middle school and dreaded every day of school. I couldn't eat AT ALL in the mornings because I was soo nervous. The doctor thought I had anemia or something...

Anyway, I slept most of Saturday to avoid the nauseous feeling and it was so easy...usually I can't sleep through that much of day. Apparently, my body feels like I've just run a marathon, only I haven't gotten off the couch:) But, there is a baby being built, so I guess it all evens out...

And garlic. Oh the cure-all, loved by all other cultures for its immune building properties and infection fighting abilities. I would buy it at the farmers market, have it on at hand at all times, and cook with at any given chance. It was even destined to be in my fall garden line up....Until the Romano's Macaroni Grill + create your own pasta bowl + my handsome husband, all collided this Saturday night. What Matt and I didn't realize on this lovely evening with an old friend, was that the FORTY or so cloves he was ingesting would soon be coming out his pores-making me (through my SUPER sensitive pregnant sense of smell) extremely nauseous!

In one of Matt’s first acts of sacrifice for baby + baby life, were the remedies I forced upon him after I realized this garlic was haunting me. Baking soda, peppermint tea, steam showers, Febreeze, dozens of incense, and white vinegar made all our senses go nuts!! Needless to say, it’s been about 36 hrs and we are almost garlic free.

6 weeks already

Hi, I have been encouraged that this [blogging] will be fun and good for us all. We'll see...

Good Friday this year was exceptionally good. Matt and I saw not one, but two big positives on the pregnancy tests! We were blissfully surprised and excited. I've never been pregnant before and I was in disbelief for a loooong time. But, yesterday when I felt sick-ish all day long, it helped to convince me a little bit more that I am REALLY PREGNANT!

I've loved reading about my friends on their blogs and I check them more frequently than they update them, so I figured what better to do while waiting...than to write>.