One Month To Go!!!

It's hard to believe that last November I was freaking out when I saw that positive sign on the pregnancy test!  I thought July will never get here and I can't believe how fast time has flown by.  I officially have 30 days to go (hopefully a little less).  I am so ready but so not ready at the same time.  I am hot and miserable but freak out when I imagine being at home with an actual human being that is totally dependent upon me.  It's insane.  But then I find myself thinking of all the fun times ahead like first Halloween, Christmas and football games and I can hardly wait. 

Here's what I won't miss:
1. Having to sleep on my side
2. Back aches
3. REFLUX-I have been eating tums like candy
4. Feet swelling everyday at 3pm like clockwork because it's already 100 degrees in June and I am on them all day
5. Feeling like I will never fit into normal clothes again
6. Being able to fasten my sandals.  Right now I have to prop my feet upon the tub and am lucky if I can fasten them
7. Actually see past my stomach when I am laying down flat at night
8. Taking pre-natal vitamins.  Those are the worst!

However, I know all of it will be worth it in the end but I can assure you we will note be having another summer baby.  It's just too hot.  Plus, I am missing laying out so bad.  I have layed out some at my parents (I wouldn't be caught dead in public in a swimsuit) but I get so hot so fast it's almost not worth it.  Everything is coming along nicely.  All the clothes are washed and now I just have to iron them.  I was so worried that baby A would have nothing to wear but I'm pretty sure it's safe to say he has way too many clothes.  I am juts hoping he can actually fit in them since he's supposed to be such a big baby.  The nursery is basically done except for a few minor details so I will post pics when it is finished.  Below is a sneak peak of the bed and bedding though.  Also, I have attached a 35 week pic.  My tummy is HUGE!!!!

                                            My favorite part of the bedding-the bumper pads

BabyMoon

Last week Ben and I got out of town for one last hoorah before baby A is born.  Unfortunately, we weren't really able to take a great vacation so we made due with Dallas.  We arrived on Wednesday afternoon and stayed at he marvelous Stoneleigh Hotel and Spa. The building itself is so old and it underwent a major renovation and is now fabulous.  I specifically just wanted to chill this trip because I know we really won't be able to chill again for a long time.  On the way into Dallas we stopped at BuyBuyBaby just to make sure there weren't any items I couldn't live without.  If you haven't been to this place it's so overwhelming.  Think Bed Bath & Beyond but with nothing but baby stuff.  I did get a wedge pillow to help support my back which has been killing me.  Turns out, it was a great investment.  I have slept with it every night since then.  After we checked in we ordered room service from the restaurant (which was fabulous) and a movie.  It was perfect.  Ben went down late to meet a friend for a drink in the swanky bar and I hit the sack. 
Thursday morning we ordered Breakfast and went down to the spa to have some R & R and be pampered.  Ben had a massage and I had to settle for a facial because they will not do pre-natal massages at this spa if you are in your thirs trimester even though I've been getting one about every 2-3 weeks back home.  Note: This apparently is very common in big cities so be sure to check before booking the hotel.  The facial was still great and they have a great steam room as well.  We then hit a couple children's stores and Edwin Watts before grabbing a quick nap and getting ready for dinner at one of my favoritre restaurnats Old Warsaw.  I had been bragging to Ben about how spectacular the food was so I was hoping I didn't disappoint. It was great.  We of course were entertained by the pianist and violinist as we ate and the best part is every lady is given a rose before she leaves.  A perfect treat.  We were stuffed.

Friday, we got up and headed out th Ft. Worth to the Dallas Motor Speedway.  Every year Ben and his family attend an Indy car race and last year I participated in the tradition.  We ate at the legendary Babe's for lunch and chilled the rest of the day.  Saturday was race day and Ben's parents were so sweet as to get us a table in the Speedway Club for the entire day so I didn't have to sit outside in the blazing heat.  We even pulled the pregnancy card so we could get picked up and dropped off at the door before the race.  No walking involved.  It was fabulous.  We, of course ate some more great food.  Crabcakes, salmon, salads, cornbread, it was sooooo good. 

We woke up Sunday morning feeling rested and ready to head back home to reality.  Just what I needed before the madness of a newborn.  I am glad we didn't wait any lonnger either because I am definitely starting to get uncomfortable.  I waddle and my feet swell if I stay on them too long.  Thanks to everyone who kept suggesting we get outta town beforehand.

                                                             The Stoneleigh Hotel

                                                Babe's Restaurant-The best biscuits ever!

                                    What a difference a year makes! Indy Race 2010 pre-baby.

                                                         Indy Race 2011. 6 weeks to go!

Maternity Clothes

I remember when I was approaching 20 weeks.  My pants couldn't really button anymore and I hated the bella band.  I know how hard it is for me to find pants that fit when I'm not pregnant, I could only imagine how it would be now that I had a belly forming.  Surprisingly, I have found some really precious maternity clothes.  In fact, many of them are nicer than my everyday non-pregnant wardrobe.  The thing I noticed about maternity clothes is it is worth it to pay for the fit.  It will so be worth it because good preggo clothes know how to fit you in the right places.  Below are my some of my fav things I've found along the way.

Pants: Japanese Weekend.  The pants are super comfy but look stylish still.  I can see why no one wants to give up the elastic band because it really is so comfortable.  You can breathe as your belly grows.  They come in bootcut and slim cut so you can choose what style works best for you.  I bought one of each and have worn them since week 20. 
Favorite stores: Pickles and Ice Cream.  There are two locations in Dallas and every time I'm there I pop in.  You can also order online but the clothes don't look nearly as cute as they do in the store. Baby Bump-New Orleans.  Soon they will offer online shopping but they have alot of great clothes and a fantastic jean selection. 

I also have several favorite brands I have discovered and below are some of the pieces I bought from their collections.  The one thing I will say is definitely factor in you body changing month after month.  Not so much in the stomach area for me but the bust.  You never know how your body will change. I am not 34 weeks and in the home stretch.  I am just hoping I can hold out and continue to wear all the clothes I have without purchasing anything else new.  Dresses have definitely been a lifesaver during these last couple weeks.  The Summer heat wave is upon us.

                                                           Rosie Pope Floral Maxi Mini

Nuka Maternity Elle Maxi Dress

Jules and Jim Azure Blue Ruffle Dress

One Shoulder Printed Tunic from Pickles and Ice Cream

We've Got a Big One On Our Hands

Almost two weeks ago we went to the doctor to have a final ultrasound because I was measuring a little ahead.  I was so excited because I hadn't seen a pic of M.A. since 18 weeks.  Oh my how he has grown!  At week 18 we could see the whole baby on the large flat screen. Now, we had to piece each body part together because he is so big.

And big he was.  He weighed in at 3lbs 15oz. The 70th percentile! I immediately wanted to know the length but since we couldn't see the whole body it was too difficult.  We did get a measurement of the femur which was also in the 70th percentile.  The tech told us to be prepared that M.A. would probably be well over 8lbs. and at this point was 1.5 weeks ahead of my due date.

How did this happen?  Have you seen me or my husband?  We are not big people so we were dumbfounded.  After the ultrasound, the doctor said there was no reason to panic if he was that big.  It was more than likely genetic because I've passed my glucose test and haven't gained the weight to correlate with a big baby.  I felt a little more relieved.  I also know that sometimes the measurements are off.  I know several people who they have said their babies would be big and when they were born were in the normal range. 

On a happier note, we saw so many great pics of his face.  Last time he was hiding his face with his hand and was sleeping snuggled up next to the placenta.  Today, I drank half a cup of coffee before the ultrasound and he was going nuts!  I mean moving everywhere.  We saw lots of hair (which could explain my heartburn)!  He also had his eyes open alot as well as his mouth.  We got some great shots of him sticking out his tongue and then sucking his thumb.  I think he must have been hungry!  His cheeks are super fat and he has some juicy lips.  To me, he looked how my dad looked as a baby.  But time will tell.  I can't wait to meet him.  If his facial expressions are any indication of the way he acts outside the womb, I'm worried he may be a little high maintenance.  Hmm...must take after his father.

            This is the pic that makes me think of dad. He definitely has the Florence nose.

                          I mean, is there any room in there for him or is he just that flexible?

                                         This is my favorite-M.A. is already sucking his thumb.

Wacky Wednesday

I have been wanting to blog about this for several days but was so busy last week that I didn't have time.  I am telling this story because even I am guilty of doing this but have never experienced the consequences until last Wednesday. 

I was driving down Louisville Avenue in Monroe headed east toward the bridge to cross into West Monroe.  Thankfully, I was almost to the base of the bridge, and as you all know if you are familiar with the area, has multiple stop lights.  I wasn't going the usual 35mph because I was coming off a red light.  Meanwhile, in the opposite direction traffic was backed up.  This was because many people attempt to turn left when you enter Monroe from West Monroe causing a major traffic jam. 

All of a sudden I see a man swerve from his lane into mine and he was coming at me.  I layed on the brakes and jammed on the horn but there was nothing he could do.  He coasted into me and hit my car head on.  I don't know how the airbags didn't deploy but am so thankful the lord was looking out for me and I wasn't going fast.  Everything was a blur.  I am okay but it scared me to death.  What if the airbags did deploy and hurt the baby?  I had a thousand thoughts running through my head and immediately had a huge meltdown.  The police were so nice and had me take a few deep breaths before they talked to me and got all the info they needed.  There were several witnesses and as it turned out the guy was texting on his phone and for some reason it made sense to him to swerve into oncoming traffic than rear end the person in front of him.  I will never understand that concept but oh well. 

I was able to drive my car down the road to Hixson but the police followed me just to make sure the tire didn't blow out since his truck had kinda rammed up under my car.  The damage could have been worse but it's still gonna require alot of work.  My hubby was so sweet to drive over and follow me home after I picked up a rental car.  M.A. is okay and thriving and I am so thankful.  To everyone out there-do not text and drive.  I know you think you can manage but things can change so fast.  Whether or not he received a ticket I don't know yet but at least we are all okay. 

On a happier note, I snapped a 30 week pic this weekend.  I am in the home stretch and can't believe how fast time has past.  Can't wait to meet this precious little man.  I go back to the doc tomorrow so I'm sure I will be updating later in the week. 

Sun, Peanut Butter, Prom, and a Birthday

It was so nice this weekend not to have to go anywhere and just be in town. The last month I have been out of town every weekend and I was getting really tired of constantly being on the go.  Friday night I went to a baseball game but Saturday there was no baseball and I actually got to spend some time with my hubby.  We first went and picked out a glider for the baby's room.  OMG, I can't wait.  It is one of the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat in.  Hopefully the baby will feel the same way and go to sleep while I rock him.  Next we actually layed out.  Yes I had to break down and buy a maternity swimsuit.  I kept saying I will not be in a swimsuit this year but I was pretty white and knew I wouldn't see anyone so I went ahead and did it. I think April is the earliest I have layed out since college but it was the perfect day.  Not too hot but breezy.  We picked up a Papa Murphy's pizza on the way back from Monroe and it was delicious.  If you are not familiar with this chain, let me tell you about it.  We always get it when we go to Baton Rouge.  You pick the crust, toppings and then take home and bake for 18min.  It's delicious and now local. 

On Saturday, I also experienced my first official craving.  Everyone has been asking me so far what are you craving and truthfully I haven't really had cravings.  Usually nothing sounds good or everything sounds good.  Well, I walked into Ben's parents house and saw this amazing cake sitting on the kitchen counter.  I took the top off and smelled it because I wanted to know what kind it was.  Holy moly it had peanut butter icing!  Peanut butter is my weakness.  I wanted a piece so bad.  I made Ben call his parents (who were out of town) and ask about the cake.  Turns out is was his sisters cake she was taking over to a friends house.  I had to settle for a homemade chocolate pie instead.  Since I really wanted peanut butter I took a scoop of Peter Pan peanut butter and put it on top of the chocolate pie.  I am telling you it was incredible! 

After spending about 4 hours in the sun we went home and got dressed to chaperon Cedar Creek Prom.  Ben has to chaperon 2 dances a year and we usually commit to Prom because it is one of the more entertaining dances.  We get a real kick out of watching everyone dance!  It's even funnier when chaperons walk around the room because the kids are in a mosh pit and dance their way to the opposite corner to avoid us.  I am just glad we didn't have to go to the Prom breakfast.  It was way past my bedtime when we got home.

Sunday we were exhausted and so was our maltipoo Lola.  Most of  ya'll know how much we love our dog and we really do treat her like a human.  Sunday was her birthday so the whole weekend she basically went everywhere we went.  She loved laying out because she could get on the first step of the pool and cool off.  After a lazy Sunday we completed her bday celebration with a tradition.  Every year we take her to Petsmart and let her pick out a new toy.  She loves all the smells in the store and we squeak several toys to see which one she reacts to the best.  Pathetic? Yes we know but this is her last birthday before the baby and she may never get another one so we had to go all out.  Last year, my mother in law got Lola her very own order of Cane's chicken so it could be worse.  I intended to finish up the weekend by weeding but took a nap instead.  Couldn't have asked more a more relaxing weekend.

                                            Me and my precious Lola. She turned 5 on Sunday.

                                                                      A quick 25 week pic.

The Makings of a baby room

For those of you that know me, you know how much I love to decorate.  The whole experience it so fun to me.  From drawing inspiration from magazines to the hunt for just the perfect furniture and accessories, it is a blast.  From the moment I found out I was pregnant, I just knew it was going to be a boy.  I immediately began searching for rooms and colors I loved and had actually picked out several things before the official ultrasound.  I don't know what I would have done if it was a girl!  Well I am happy to say almost everything has been ordered and now I am just awaiting the arrival of all these fabulous things.  I don't want to reveal too much but I do want to show you the crib and the paintings I picked out. 

I really had my heart set on a sleigh crib at first but after finding my bedding I just couldn't see a dark brown finish with such delicate fabric.  The white color just wouldn't match either.  I had originally ruled out an iron crib but the more I thought about it, the more elegant I thought it would be.  I had also seen this silver wood crib and knew that a pewter color would look great with the bedding.  I found one from Restoration Hardware that I loved.  Upon further research (because I research everything) I found out that Bratt actually made this crib which was the brand that I had first looked at.  Plus, they will deliver it to your home and put it together for you.  That right there is worth it to me.

Next, I had some pictures I had found at market and loved since January.  I didn't know the sex yet so I held off ordering them plus I needed to find bedding to match.  All of that is accomplished and I am waiting on everything to arrive so I can start putting it all together.  Plus I am still cleaning out the room.  We have been using it as an office for the past 4 years and it's amazing the amount of "stuff" you accumulate.  I hate moving and cleaning but am excited about the finished product.  I hope to share it shortly!

 how cute are these animals?  I decided to mix up the colors of the background between blue and tan.