Seven weeks ago, to the hour, I was hopping into the car after an eventful evening of my water breaking, headed to the hospital. I didn't know then that it would be another 18 hours before I would meet our sweet little Isabelle. Although it was 3/4 of a day later, the time we spent waiting for her that day just flew by. And now, seven weeks later, here we are and time is still flying by.
I cannot believe that it has already been seven weeks. On the other hand, seven weeks is such a short amount of time. It has been amazing watching her grow and change from day to day. She has just started learning how to coo and smile. Her little personality is emerging and she is so beautiful. I just love her to pieces. I can't wait to see more of her personality as she grows and changes in the weeks and months to come.
Even though it has been seven weeks, I still miss it... I still miss the anticipation. The wonder. The movement of her tiny body as she kicks and rolls around. The hiccups she would have, every.single.night. I even miss the labor. I hope that someday, if its in God's plan for our family, I will get to experience all of that again. I always thought that I would be a two kids and I am done, but I just cannot imagine being done. I am so lucky to have the children that I do have, and for that I am so grateful. We will see what the future has in store for us later.
For now, I will enjoy my newborn, and of course my toddler. They sure do keep me busy and feeling like I don't have enough hours in my day, but I wouldn't change it for anything in the world.
Monday, February 23, 2015
Monday, January 19, 2015
Two Weeks
I cannot fathom that it's been two weeks since the night my water broke. Time is going by way too fast for my liking. As I sit here typing this, there are so many different emotions I am feeling. Since having Isabelle, it has been a somewhat bumpy ride as far as my hormones are concerned. While I know that this is completely normal, I can't help but wonder one thing. Why do I miss it so much? Miss what, you ask? Being pregnant. I miss it. I miss watching my belly grow. I miss looking forward to each OB appointment. I miss feeling little baby kicks. I miss the anticipation of wondering when I would go into labor... The labor and delivery itself ... I miss it all. Except for the heartburn. I don't miss that one bit.
I just want to know why I miss it and what is causing me to miss it. I have a beautiful little baby girl here in my arms as I type this, and another precious little girl asleep in her bed. I am so blessed. I should be overflowing with happiness and joy. Not sad and dwelling on the fact that my pregnancy is over.
I wish there was someone that I could talk to that understood what I am feeling. Someone who has felt exactly the way I do. Someone to tell me "it gets better" or "it will be ok ". A part of me wishes I could turn back time and go back to the beginning of my pregnancy and do it all over again. Every.Single.Bit.of it.
There is something about being pregnant that gives me a sense of worth, a sense of importance. I feel special. And there is NOTHING like knowing you are growing a beautiful human being inside of you. It's such a magical time. Don't get me wrong, all I could think about and talk about when I was pregnant is how I couldn't wait to meet my new baby girl, and wonder what she looked like. But something happened. Something changed between the time my water broke, and the time I pushed Isabelle out. It all happened so fast. Before I knew it, I was no longer pregnant and instead I had a brand new baby girl in my arms. Why is it so hard to transition and just let go?
I am trying to be positive and think happy thoughts and enjoy this happy time with my new baby girl. But I am only human and every so often I let my emotions get the best of me. Today was one of those days. I have a feeling that with each week that passes by, it will get easier but also a little harder. I know I cannot turn back time, but I can only look forward from here on out. I have two beautiful girls that need me and I need them. I need to enjoy them now while they are still little and enjoy watching them grow and reach milestones. They are only little once...
So even though I am bound to have a rough day every once in a while, I can take comfort knowing that this will soon pass... I may not know why I feel the way I feel, but knowing it is temporary will give me the strength I need to just move forward.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
She's Here!
I can't believe that my little Isabelle is really here. I knew I had been having a lot of signs that she would be coming early but I really wasn't counting on it... I think a big thing that played a part in her arrival was my usage of evening primrose oil. I've read that it can cause premature rupture of membranes... I had a lot of signs that she was coming soon though. I was tired for several days before her arrival, my heartburn was worsening, it kept feeling like she was pushing down, frequent braxton hicks contractions, diarrhea. The day my water broke I took two naps and still had no energy for anything, I started losing my mucus plug and I got really hungry, craving mostly carbs.
I've decided that now would be a good time to write my birth story since its still fresh in my memory.
It all started around 10PM on Monday January 5th. I had just sat down on the couch to fold laundry. I had joked with Bryan about wanting to get laundry done just in case I go into labor soon. I hadn't been folding clothes for more than a couple of minutes when I felt a pop and all the sudden water started pouring out of me. I ran to my bathroom and just stood there and called out to Bryan telling him my water broke. He must have thought I was joking, but I sure wasn't! My pants and the floor were soaked!
We started making our calls. I called my doula first to let her know what was going on. We had originally planned to meet at my house so I could labor at home but since my group b strep test results hadn't been released to me yet, I didn't want to take any chances. We then called our parents and the friends who would be taking care of Bryelle. I started to get emotional and nervous as we rushed around the house getting everything together. I wasn't ready yet! By 11PM we were packed up and headed to the hospital.
When we got there we met my doula, Sheena, in the parking lot. Bryan went in and grabbed a wheelchair while Sheena and I gathered everything out of the car. Once we had everything we made our way up to labor and delivery. They seemed to be pretty slow because we didn't have to wait to be put into a triage room.
The nurse came in and checked my vitals and got me admitted. They also checked to make sure my water was really broken. Then the midwife came in and went over a few things with me. My GBS results came back positive so it was good I went in when I did. She also had it in the computer that I had gestational diabetes. That kind of upset me because that meant that I wasn't allowed to labor in the tub. My midwife I had been seeing for the whole pregnancy had never diagnosed me but just had me testing my sugars as precaution. It was upsetting... Then she told me that to be able to release my placenta would cost about 500-700 dollars. I broke down. I had been planning on encapsulating my placenta since I had found out I was pregnant, but there was no way we were going to be able to afford it if if cost that much.
I've decided that now would be a good time to write my birth story since its still fresh in my memory.
It all started around 10PM on Monday January 5th. I had just sat down on the couch to fold laundry. I had joked with Bryan about wanting to get laundry done just in case I go into labor soon. I hadn't been folding clothes for more than a couple of minutes when I felt a pop and all the sudden water started pouring out of me. I ran to my bathroom and just stood there and called out to Bryan telling him my water broke. He must have thought I was joking, but I sure wasn't! My pants and the floor were soaked!
We started making our calls. I called my doula first to let her know what was going on. We had originally planned to meet at my house so I could labor at home but since my group b strep test results hadn't been released to me yet, I didn't want to take any chances. We then called our parents and the friends who would be taking care of Bryelle. I started to get emotional and nervous as we rushed around the house getting everything together. I wasn't ready yet! By 11PM we were packed up and headed to the hospital.
When we got there we met my doula, Sheena, in the parking lot. Bryan went in and grabbed a wheelchair while Sheena and I gathered everything out of the car. Once we had everything we made our way up to labor and delivery. They seemed to be pretty slow because we didn't have to wait to be put into a triage room.
The nurse came in and checked my vitals and got me admitted. They also checked to make sure my water was really broken. Then the midwife came in and went over a few things with me. My GBS results came back positive so it was good I went in when I did. She also had it in the computer that I had gestational diabetes. That kind of upset me because that meant that I wasn't allowed to labor in the tub. My midwife I had been seeing for the whole pregnancy had never diagnosed me but just had me testing my sugars as precaution. It was upsetting... Then she told me that to be able to release my placenta would cost about 500-700 dollars. I broke down. I had been planning on encapsulating my placenta since I had found out I was pregnant, but there was no way we were going to be able to afford it if if cost that much.
After I calmed down the nurse came back in and put my IV in and we were met by another nurse to be escorted to my labor and delivery room.
We ended up with room 5. Now that I look back I wish we would have taken a picture of the room number. When we got in the room they had me get in the bed so they could get me checked in and hooked up to the monitors for a bit. I can't remember exactly what time we got in there but I'm thinking it was between 1 and 2 in the morning. I was exhausted from not sleeping much the night before and I even had joked around earlier that day, saying how I hope I wasn't going to go into labor since I hadn't slept much.
Well, to be honest, I didn't go into labor. Not on my own anyways. I tried to get things going on my own but nothing was happening. I was given 12 hours from the time my water broke to try and jump start labor on my own. My doula and I walked the halls two separate times, I bounced on the ball, i stood and swayed. It was no use. They started me on pitocin around 10AM.
At first, the contractions felt like mild menstrual cramps, and then around 1:30 or so they started to pick up and become a little painful. My doula was great at trying different techniques to help me manage my pain. She applied counter pressure on my hips while Bryan ran his hands down my back through each contraction.
Around 2:40PM, the nurses decided that it would be a good time to check and see how much process I had made with the pitocin. They brought in the midwife and she checked me and told me that I was at 3cm, 100% effaced and at a -1 station. I was a little discouraged because with the pain I was experiencing. I thought I would be further dilated than that. After the midwife left, the nurses decided to break down the bed into a chair. They called it the Princess Pose. It forced me to sit up straight with my legs down and I really started to feel things moving along.
At first, the contractions felt like mild menstrual cramps, and then around 1:30 or so they started to pick up and become a little painful. My doula was great at trying different techniques to help me manage my pain. She applied counter pressure on my hips while Bryan ran his hands down my back through each contraction.
Around 2:40PM, the nurses decided that it would be a good time to check and see how much process I had made with the pitocin. They brought in the midwife and she checked me and told me that I was at 3cm, 100% effaced and at a -1 station. I was a little discouraged because with the pain I was experiencing. I thought I would be further dilated than that. After the midwife left, the nurses decided to break down the bed into a chair. They called it the Princess Pose. It forced me to sit up straight with my legs down and I really started to feel things moving along.
The first contraction I had sitting like that made me tense up and I almost felt like I wasn't going to get through it. Sitting that way really forced the baby to move down into the birth canal and it was the worst pain I ever felt in my life. As I sat there breathing through contractions, my doula and Bryan sat next to me, rubbing my legs. I also used heating pads on my lower abdomen and back to ease the pain a little bit. The doula gave me combs to hold in my hand and squeeze through contractions. There are pressure points in the hands that release oxytocin. It really helped to take my focus off of the contractions a little bit.
When the contractions picked up even more, just breathing through them wasn't enough. I started making Ah sounds and then when I got tired of that, I started making ooh sounds. At one point I made Mmm sounds. I definitely felt the peak of each contraction and I knew once I reached that point the contraction would soon end. I sounded like a tribal woman making all of those sounds but it really helped. Then, when the contractions picked up even more, I started to tense my arms so I decided to move them up as the contraction got worse, and then bring them back down once the contraction was going away.
After a while, I was starting to get tired. Then I got a strong urge to urinate but when I tried to go, I couldn't. I tried a couple of times, taking a break in between to breathe through contractions, but I just couldn't go. Then I started to feel like I needed to have a bowel movement. I couldn't do that either though. I left the bathroom in frustration and felt like that was my breaking point. I wanted medication to take the edge off. I didn't feel like I could get through without it. My doula asked me if I was sure and I said I didn't know. As I was walking back to the bed, I felt sick to my stomach like I would vomit. I a leaned against my doula and just did some deep breathing and that feeling went away. Then I got the urge to have a bowel movement again. It felt like extreme pressure. Because they had just checked me about an hour prior, I didn't think i was anywhere close to being able to push but the nurse decided to get the midwife so she could check me again.
The midwife came in around 4:15PM and as I got into the bed and she checked me, she told me I was at 9.5cm. So close! She then told me that baby had turned posterior which meant she was face up. Not news I wanted to hear. As I got through each contraction I started to feel like giving up again. I was so tired and frustrated and the pain was unbearable. I broke down and started losing my focus and started tensing up and that's when her heart rate started dropping. They rushed a doctor in and the nurses put an oxygen mask on me and had me turn to my side. I felt like I needed to push so the Dr checked me around 4:45PM and I was at 10cm! He let me push for relief but the baby's heart rate kept dropping. He explained that since she was posterior it was going to be harder to get her out on my own and that I may need the assistance of forceps. This wasn't news I wanted to hear. That meant I would probably need to get medication. He told me my options. I could get an epidural and possibly be looking at a c-section, or I could get a saddle block and use the forceps to assist baby's head down quicker. I decided to go with the saddle block. It took about 5 minutes for the anesthesiologist to administer the injection and it burned! I was numb from the waist down in the front but still felt everything in my back, which was nice because I still knew when I was having contractions. At around 5:05 I started actively pushing. I pushed three times with the assistance of the forceps, and three times without. After those six pushes, Isabelle Grace was born at 5:12PM! Her umbilical cord was overalled around her body. As soon as they untangled her they put her on my chest. It was a moment I will never forget! I was on such a natural high that I dont remember a whole lot after that.
When the contractions picked up even more, just breathing through them wasn't enough. I started making Ah sounds and then when I got tired of that, I started making ooh sounds. At one point I made Mmm sounds. I definitely felt the peak of each contraction and I knew once I reached that point the contraction would soon end. I sounded like a tribal woman making all of those sounds but it really helped. Then, when the contractions picked up even more, I started to tense my arms so I decided to move them up as the contraction got worse, and then bring them back down once the contraction was going away.
After a while, I was starting to get tired. Then I got a strong urge to urinate but when I tried to go, I couldn't. I tried a couple of times, taking a break in between to breathe through contractions, but I just couldn't go. Then I started to feel like I needed to have a bowel movement. I couldn't do that either though. I left the bathroom in frustration and felt like that was my breaking point. I wanted medication to take the edge off. I didn't feel like I could get through without it. My doula asked me if I was sure and I said I didn't know. As I was walking back to the bed, I felt sick to my stomach like I would vomit. I a leaned against my doula and just did some deep breathing and that feeling went away. Then I got the urge to have a bowel movement again. It felt like extreme pressure. Because they had just checked me about an hour prior, I didn't think i was anywhere close to being able to push but the nurse decided to get the midwife so she could check me again.
The midwife came in around 4:15PM and as I got into the bed and she checked me, she told me I was at 9.5cm. So close! She then told me that baby had turned posterior which meant she was face up. Not news I wanted to hear. As I got through each contraction I started to feel like giving up again. I was so tired and frustrated and the pain was unbearable. I broke down and started losing my focus and started tensing up and that's when her heart rate started dropping. They rushed a doctor in and the nurses put an oxygen mask on me and had me turn to my side. I felt like I needed to push so the Dr checked me around 4:45PM and I was at 10cm! He let me push for relief but the baby's heart rate kept dropping. He explained that since she was posterior it was going to be harder to get her out on my own and that I may need the assistance of forceps. This wasn't news I wanted to hear. That meant I would probably need to get medication. He told me my options. I could get an epidural and possibly be looking at a c-section, or I could get a saddle block and use the forceps to assist baby's head down quicker. I decided to go with the saddle block. It took about 5 minutes for the anesthesiologist to administer the injection and it burned! I was numb from the waist down in the front but still felt everything in my back, which was nice because I still knew when I was having contractions. At around 5:05 I started actively pushing. I pushed three times with the assistance of the forceps, and three times without. After those six pushes, Isabelle Grace was born at 5:12PM! Her umbilical cord was overalled around her body. As soon as they untangled her they put her on my chest. It was a moment I will never forget! I was on such a natural high that I dont remember a whole lot after that.
All I could focus on was those first moments with my new baby.
I am so proud of myself for accomplishing what I set out to accomplish which was a natural birth with no medication. Although I did get the saddle block at the very end, I know I could have gone without it if it hadn't been medically necessary. I hope someday I will be blessed to be able to experience this again. It was amazing.
I am so proud of myself for accomplishing what I set out to accomplish which was a natural birth with no medication. Although I did get the saddle block at the very end, I know I could have gone without it if it hadn't been medically necessary. I hope someday I will be blessed to be able to experience this again. It was amazing.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
35 Weeks, 5 to Go!
I can't believe its been five weeks since my last entry. I was trying to write at least every week but I guess I sort of slacked off... Lets see if I can recap what has been going on these last five weeks...
So, two weeks after my last post, I had an appointment with my midwife an my doula came along with me. It was nice to have her support, and also to have another set of ears to listen to the answers of questions I had for my midwife. We got a lot of questions answered and as far as what I plan to have happen during this birth experience, I think things are going to go pretty good.
Two days after Thanksgiving, we decided to go cut down a Christmas tree. When we got it home, I realized that we made a mistake. It was so hard for me to breathe, that I had to sleep with our bedroom door closed and the windows open. I am allergic to most Christmas trees, but the past two years I hadn't had any trouble so I didn't think I would have trouble this year, but boy was I wrong! A couple days after we got our tree I went to a friends house and she has a monstrous tree, about 8.5 feet tall! Well, the next day I was sure paying for it... My allergies were in full swing and it started to flare up my asthma as well. Here we are about two and a half weeks later, and I am still coughing, but now I think its due to the cedar allergies. I just cannot win! Fortunately this is the first time I have really suffered with allergies this year. Normally I have allergies every time the seasons change, but ever since I had Bryelle, I haven't really had any trouble.
My last appointment was on the 11th of this month and Bryan was able to go with me to that one. I was advised to still check my blood sugar, but that I could check it every other day instead of every day. If my numbers stay where they are suppose to be, I will be given the OK at my next appointment to check every three days. I am praying that my numbers will stay good! It is such a pain sometimes to have to check my numbers and only be able to eat at certain times. I know it is all for a good reason though, so that helps a little.
I started swelling a little in my hands and ankles this week. I officially cannot wear my wedding rings anymore, and several of my shoes are starting to feel snug. I still cant complain though. This pregnancy has been such a breeze compare to the one with Bryelle. I still haven't gained as much weight as I did with Bryelle either. I believe I am up 32 pounds, and with Bryelle I had gained 42 until I went on the gestational diabetes diet and then ended up only gaining 36 pounds. I am not too worried about the weight though. I only have a little over 4 weeks left and then Isabelle will be here and hopefully taking care of a newborn and chasing after a toddler, the weight will fall off...
I have been getting a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions lately, and even feel like Isabelle is trying to make her way out at times, but I know I still have a ways to go. I am trying to get everything prepared and ready though just in case. Last week I packed my hospital bag and bought a few last minute things for Isabelle. I still need to write my birth plan and do a few other things before her arrival. I know that I have time, but I think with the holidays coming up soon, the time is going to slip right on by very quickly. We cant wait for Isabelle to make her debut. I still cant believe that I will have another baby to love.
So, two weeks after my last post, I had an appointment with my midwife an my doula came along with me. It was nice to have her support, and also to have another set of ears to listen to the answers of questions I had for my midwife. We got a lot of questions answered and as far as what I plan to have happen during this birth experience, I think things are going to go pretty good.
Two days after Thanksgiving, we decided to go cut down a Christmas tree. When we got it home, I realized that we made a mistake. It was so hard for me to breathe, that I had to sleep with our bedroom door closed and the windows open. I am allergic to most Christmas trees, but the past two years I hadn't had any trouble so I didn't think I would have trouble this year, but boy was I wrong! A couple days after we got our tree I went to a friends house and she has a monstrous tree, about 8.5 feet tall! Well, the next day I was sure paying for it... My allergies were in full swing and it started to flare up my asthma as well. Here we are about two and a half weeks later, and I am still coughing, but now I think its due to the cedar allergies. I just cannot win! Fortunately this is the first time I have really suffered with allergies this year. Normally I have allergies every time the seasons change, but ever since I had Bryelle, I haven't really had any trouble.
My last appointment was on the 11th of this month and Bryan was able to go with me to that one. I was advised to still check my blood sugar, but that I could check it every other day instead of every day. If my numbers stay where they are suppose to be, I will be given the OK at my next appointment to check every three days. I am praying that my numbers will stay good! It is such a pain sometimes to have to check my numbers and only be able to eat at certain times. I know it is all for a good reason though, so that helps a little.
I started swelling a little in my hands and ankles this week. I officially cannot wear my wedding rings anymore, and several of my shoes are starting to feel snug. I still cant complain though. This pregnancy has been such a breeze compare to the one with Bryelle. I still haven't gained as much weight as I did with Bryelle either. I believe I am up 32 pounds, and with Bryelle I had gained 42 until I went on the gestational diabetes diet and then ended up only gaining 36 pounds. I am not too worried about the weight though. I only have a little over 4 weeks left and then Isabelle will be here and hopefully taking care of a newborn and chasing after a toddler, the weight will fall off...
I have been getting a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions lately, and even feel like Isabelle is trying to make her way out at times, but I know I still have a ways to go. I am trying to get everything prepared and ready though just in case. Last week I packed my hospital bag and bought a few last minute things for Isabelle. I still need to write my birth plan and do a few other things before her arrival. I know that I have time, but I think with the holidays coming up soon, the time is going to slip right on by very quickly. We cant wait for Isabelle to make her debut. I still cant believe that I will have another baby to love.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Thirty Weeks Means 10 Weeks Left!
Yesterday I reached the 30 week mark of my pregnancy. This milestone in my pregnancy brings on many emotions. Happiness, Anxiety, Excitement... Just to name a few. I feel like I still have so much to do to get myself prepared for Isabelle's arrival. I know that I have plenty of time, its the energy that I am lacking. Lately I find myself completely drained most of the day. I know that its because I have a toddler. She is my world, but lately I have found myself distancing from her. I am on edge a lot of the time, and my patience is close to non-existent these days. I feel bad... She loves me so much, and wants to share every part of her day with me. She is a sweetheart, but at the same time, she is a typical toddler. She wants her way, and she wants it now. She is beginning to play the 20 questions game with me, but instead of 20 different questions, it is the same 3 questions over and over again. I know that I need to cherish this time with her though. Not only because I will miss it someday... but because pretty soon I will have another child that will need my attention, and I will have to learn how to divide it between the two. I also need to realize, that there is someone out there who would LOVE to have a child constantly under their feet, asking them the same questions over and over again, following them around the house, wanting to do everything that mommy does... But they have tried to have a child and cant... It really helps to change your perspective and think of things a little differently. I know that the irritability and lack of patience and just wanting peace and quiet is just my pregnancy hormones talking, but it still makes me feel like a terrible mother...
As I sit here and write this, my energetic, talkative toddler is laying in my bed, fast asleep. She doesn't know that mommy is drained, or that mommy just might not feel like answering 20 questions today, or that mommy doesn't want to clean up the same messes over and over again... But one thing she does know is that she loves her mommy, and just wants her attention. I just hope and pray that tomorrow I can take a deep breath, have a little patience, and remember that this wont last forever, and although I don't think so now, someday I will miss these moments and wish that my sweet little Bryelle was following me around the house, asking me what I am doing for the umpteenth time...
On another note, Isabelle seems to be doing great. She is still a very active baby and is constantly moving. Her movements have becoming a lot stronger these days, and actually quite uncomfortable. She REALLY likes my ribs lately.
I have been having to check my blood sugar again, but unfortunately I ran out of my test strips a few days ago and haven't been able to get more yet. I am not sure what they will have me do but hopefully I wont have to start the two weeks over. My next appointment is this coming Friday so we shall see.
Last week I met up with the woman who is training to be a doula and will be attending Isabelle's birth. I am really excited. She brought her bag of goodies that she will be using to help me stay comfortable during labor. I am really glad that I found her and I really think she is going to do a great job as a doula. She already seems very passionate about it and that is SO important. We will meet up with her again in December, but this time it will be Bryan and I together. Its important for the dad to meet with the doula to make sure that they get along and that dad knows that the doula is there to help him, not replace him.
I cant believe that we have a little over two months left until Isabelle's arrival. It seems like it was just yesterday that I found out I was expecting, and how I never thought I would get over the morning sickness, and now here we are, less than 10 weeks away. I cannot complain about anything except the awful heartburn that plagues me every single day... That, and my joints in my hips and pelvis are starting to loosen up, so after I have been walking a while, or sitting for a long period of time, it is a little difficult to walk. I have also been getting spasms in my lower back the last few days so I will have to remember to mention that to my midwife. Other than all that, everything is great :)
If this blog post seems all over the place, its because I am exhausted, but I wanted to write a little something just to get things off of my chest and to clear my mind a little. That is all for now! Until next time. :)
As I sit here and write this, my energetic, talkative toddler is laying in my bed, fast asleep. She doesn't know that mommy is drained, or that mommy just might not feel like answering 20 questions today, or that mommy doesn't want to clean up the same messes over and over again... But one thing she does know is that she loves her mommy, and just wants her attention. I just hope and pray that tomorrow I can take a deep breath, have a little patience, and remember that this wont last forever, and although I don't think so now, someday I will miss these moments and wish that my sweet little Bryelle was following me around the house, asking me what I am doing for the umpteenth time...
On another note, Isabelle seems to be doing great. She is still a very active baby and is constantly moving. Her movements have becoming a lot stronger these days, and actually quite uncomfortable. She REALLY likes my ribs lately.
I have been having to check my blood sugar again, but unfortunately I ran out of my test strips a few days ago and haven't been able to get more yet. I am not sure what they will have me do but hopefully I wont have to start the two weeks over. My next appointment is this coming Friday so we shall see.
Last week I met up with the woman who is training to be a doula and will be attending Isabelle's birth. I am really excited. She brought her bag of goodies that she will be using to help me stay comfortable during labor. I am really glad that I found her and I really think she is going to do a great job as a doula. She already seems very passionate about it and that is SO important. We will meet up with her again in December, but this time it will be Bryan and I together. Its important for the dad to meet with the doula to make sure that they get along and that dad knows that the doula is there to help him, not replace him.
I cant believe that we have a little over two months left until Isabelle's arrival. It seems like it was just yesterday that I found out I was expecting, and how I never thought I would get over the morning sickness, and now here we are, less than 10 weeks away. I cannot complain about anything except the awful heartburn that plagues me every single day... That, and my joints in my hips and pelvis are starting to loosen up, so after I have been walking a while, or sitting for a long period of time, it is a little difficult to walk. I have also been getting spasms in my lower back the last few days so I will have to remember to mention that to my midwife. Other than all that, everything is great :)
If this blog post seems all over the place, its because I am exhausted, but I wanted to write a little something just to get things off of my chest and to clear my mind a little. That is all for now! Until next time. :)
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
28 Weeks, 12 to Go!
This past Sunday I reached the 28 week mark, which also put me in the third trimester. I cannot believe I am already 2/3 of the way done with this pregnancy. It has all gone by so fast, that I am starting to feel like I don't have enough time to get everything done before Isabelle comes. I know that 12 weeks is a long time, but at the same time, I just know that those 12 weeks are going to fly by also. I just need to remember to take it one day at a time, getting a little bit done here and there, and everything will be just fine.
One thing that has come back since I have been in my third trimester is the nausea and lack of appetite. Its not all the time, so that is good, but its still often enough to bother me a little bit. Its really weird because I never experienced this with Bryelle, but I hear that it is quite common. I guess I got lucky with Bryelle. :)
On Saturday, the day before I hit 28 weeks, we got to go and do a 3D/4D ultrasound. While I anticipated tears, I did not shed a single one. Its amazing how different your emotions are the second time around. I am overjoyed to be bringing another child into the world, but I don't think there is anything quite like your first child. After all, your first child is the child that made you a mother, and turned your life upside down, for the better of course.
Anyways, the ultrasound was amazing nonetheless. Since I was only just about 28 weeks along, we were able to see a lot more than we were able to see with Bryelle, who was 34 weeks when we went with her. Isabelle looks just like her big sister, but at the same time, they both have different features. I think that Isabelle has her daddy's nose, while Bryelle has mine. I think they both have my cheeks. It looks like Isabelle will have daddy's lips, while Bryelle has mine. We will have to wait and see though... when we will be able to see our precious girl in person.
Isabelle is SO very active these days. There is practically not a single moment where she is not jabbing, rolling, kicking, or bouncing around in there. I have a feeling she is going to be my wild child! Bryelle was so much more calm, only moving at night mainly. I know a lot of it could have to do with me working while I was pregnant with her, but I still chase after a toddler all day so I am not sure, but I definitely do feel a lot more this time! Could also be the placement of my placenta! I love it though! She definitely has a little personality already too. Daddy was messing with her and he would push on my belly and she would kick back at him. It was too cute.
On Tuesday I had my 28 week doctors appointment. Everything looks great. My blood pressure was great, like it has been this whole pregnancy. I don't have a single bit of swelling, which is so different with my pregnancy with Bryelle, because my swelling was so bad with her! In the past month I have only gained 1 pound, which I found a little strange considering you're "suppose" to gain at least 1/2 a pound to a pound a week in the second trimester. I am not sure what the guidelines are for the third trimester though. I dont really have to worry about the weight gain though because even if I gained a pound a week from here on out, it would put me at a 36 pound gain which isn't terrible. And even then, the midwife I will be seeing from now on said that as long as mom is healthy and baby is healthy, she doesn't really pay too much attention to weight gain... Which is nice, because for most people, weight gain during pregnancy is inevitable...So far I have gained 23 pounds this preganancy, where with Bryelle I had gained 27 by this time. I know 4 pounds isn't a huge difference but I bet the difference is the swelling that I had with her.
One disappointing thing I was told at my appointment was that since I am at 28 weeks and I have decided to decline the glucose tolerance test, I have to do finger pricks again for two weeks. Although it was disappointing, I am just glad I dont have to drink that glucola. And I have good news, I started checking my blood sugar yesterday and so far all of my numbers have been excellent! That makes me so happy because if I were to have gestational diabetes this time around, I would be considered high risk since I have already had gestational diabetes in the past. So, lets just pray that my numbers continue to stay good for the next couple of weeks!
I go back in two weeks to turn in my glucometer so they can analyze the numbers and rule out (or rule in) gestational diabetes. I have confidence that everything will be ok though! After that appointment I go back in another two weeks for my regular follow up appointment, and then I believe that I will have one more regular monthly appointment before I start going every two weeks. Its crazy to think that I probably only have about 5 or 6 appointments before Isabelle's arrival.
The midwife told me that I need to start writing up my birth plan. We talked a little about my birth wishes while I was at my last appointment and she seemed confident that we'd be able to follow my plan as long as there weren't any complications (ie;gestational diabetes) So we shall see! If nothing else, I really would like to labor in the hydrotherapy tub to help with pain management. I am going to avoid the epidural at all costs. I really had a bad experience with the epidural when I was in labor with Bryelle and I am actually more afraid of the epidural than I am about the pain of pushing her out... Which is a lot! I will be ok though! My friend gave me some affirmations to read everyday, so I think if I get in the right mindset, that is going to help me a lot. I still need to find something to be my focal point. I will more than likely bring a framed photo of Isabelle from the 3D ultrasound to look at and be my main focus, since she will be the goal that I am trying to reach! Wow, all this is really overwhelming but I know that I can do this. :) I dont have to worry about it so much right now though. I still have a ways to go!
Well that is all for today! As always, I thank you for reading, and I hope that you look forward to the next update. :)
One thing that has come back since I have been in my third trimester is the nausea and lack of appetite. Its not all the time, so that is good, but its still often enough to bother me a little bit. Its really weird because I never experienced this with Bryelle, but I hear that it is quite common. I guess I got lucky with Bryelle. :)
On Saturday, the day before I hit 28 weeks, we got to go and do a 3D/4D ultrasound. While I anticipated tears, I did not shed a single one. Its amazing how different your emotions are the second time around. I am overjoyed to be bringing another child into the world, but I don't think there is anything quite like your first child. After all, your first child is the child that made you a mother, and turned your life upside down, for the better of course.
Anyways, the ultrasound was amazing nonetheless. Since I was only just about 28 weeks along, we were able to see a lot more than we were able to see with Bryelle, who was 34 weeks when we went with her. Isabelle looks just like her big sister, but at the same time, they both have different features. I think that Isabelle has her daddy's nose, while Bryelle has mine. I think they both have my cheeks. It looks like Isabelle will have daddy's lips, while Bryelle has mine. We will have to wait and see though... when we will be able to see our precious girl in person.
Isabelle is SO very active these days. There is practically not a single moment where she is not jabbing, rolling, kicking, or bouncing around in there. I have a feeling she is going to be my wild child! Bryelle was so much more calm, only moving at night mainly. I know a lot of it could have to do with me working while I was pregnant with her, but I still chase after a toddler all day so I am not sure, but I definitely do feel a lot more this time! Could also be the placement of my placenta! I love it though! She definitely has a little personality already too. Daddy was messing with her and he would push on my belly and she would kick back at him. It was too cute.
On Tuesday I had my 28 week doctors appointment. Everything looks great. My blood pressure was great, like it has been this whole pregnancy. I don't have a single bit of swelling, which is so different with my pregnancy with Bryelle, because my swelling was so bad with her! In the past month I have only gained 1 pound, which I found a little strange considering you're "suppose" to gain at least 1/2 a pound to a pound a week in the second trimester. I am not sure what the guidelines are for the third trimester though. I dont really have to worry about the weight gain though because even if I gained a pound a week from here on out, it would put me at a 36 pound gain which isn't terrible. And even then, the midwife I will be seeing from now on said that as long as mom is healthy and baby is healthy, she doesn't really pay too much attention to weight gain... Which is nice, because for most people, weight gain during pregnancy is inevitable...So far I have gained 23 pounds this preganancy, where with Bryelle I had gained 27 by this time. I know 4 pounds isn't a huge difference but I bet the difference is the swelling that I had with her.
One disappointing thing I was told at my appointment was that since I am at 28 weeks and I have decided to decline the glucose tolerance test, I have to do finger pricks again for two weeks. Although it was disappointing, I am just glad I dont have to drink that glucola. And I have good news, I started checking my blood sugar yesterday and so far all of my numbers have been excellent! That makes me so happy because if I were to have gestational diabetes this time around, I would be considered high risk since I have already had gestational diabetes in the past. So, lets just pray that my numbers continue to stay good for the next couple of weeks!
I go back in two weeks to turn in my glucometer so they can analyze the numbers and rule out (or rule in) gestational diabetes. I have confidence that everything will be ok though! After that appointment I go back in another two weeks for my regular follow up appointment, and then I believe that I will have one more regular monthly appointment before I start going every two weeks. Its crazy to think that I probably only have about 5 or 6 appointments before Isabelle's arrival.
The midwife told me that I need to start writing up my birth plan. We talked a little about my birth wishes while I was at my last appointment and she seemed confident that we'd be able to follow my plan as long as there weren't any complications (ie;gestational diabetes) So we shall see! If nothing else, I really would like to labor in the hydrotherapy tub to help with pain management. I am going to avoid the epidural at all costs. I really had a bad experience with the epidural when I was in labor with Bryelle and I am actually more afraid of the epidural than I am about the pain of pushing her out... Which is a lot! I will be ok though! My friend gave me some affirmations to read everyday, so I think if I get in the right mindset, that is going to help me a lot. I still need to find something to be my focal point. I will more than likely bring a framed photo of Isabelle from the 3D ultrasound to look at and be my main focus, since she will be the goal that I am trying to reach! Wow, all this is really overwhelming but I know that I can do this. :) I dont have to worry about it so much right now though. I still have a ways to go!
Well that is all for today! As always, I thank you for reading, and I hope that you look forward to the next update. :)
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Twenty-Seven
It's been a few weeks since I have blogged. I actually wrote a blog around week 25 on my phone, but for some reason the blogger app would not publish it. Nothing much has been new the past couple of weeks.
Today I did go into Labor and Delivery because I had been cramping off and on the last three or four days. More so than cramping, I was getting a lot of very frequent Braxton-Hicks contractions. Although they are normal during pregnancy, I didn't feel that the frequency at which I was getting them was normal. Especially since I had been staying hydrated, and being sure not to over do it. A lot of the time they were happening when I was sitting or laying down, which was odd to me.
They monitored the baby's heart rate and also monitored any contractions I may have been having. They told me that it was really strange that they were able to pick baby up on the monitor so clearly since I am only 27 weeks along, and that even at 28 weeks they have a hard time picking up the baby as clear as they did with Isabelle... Thats a good thing, but it made the nurse wonder if maybe I am a little further along... Who knows...
Everything looked good so they decided to take me off of the monitors and then had me give a urine sample, and they also did a speculum exam where they took swabs to get cultures to check for any infection. Everything came back normal and I was told that I am probably just experiencing normal pregnancy symptoms but I was advised to come back if I experience any sort of bleeding or very painful contractions or cramping.
I am glad that everything was normal, it just sucks that I will probably have to just "deal" with the tightening for as long as it decides to last. I've been relaxing and trying to stay off of my feet for the rest of the day.
On Saturday we will be having our 3D ultrasound and I am so excited for that. I cant wait to get a glimpse of what our little Isabelle looks like, and to make sure she really is an Isabelle, and not an Ezra ;) I am looking forward to the DVD we will get with it too.
Next week I have an appointment with my midwife, and I believe it is my second to last monthly appointment... After that I will have appointments every two weeks until 38 weeks and then after that will be weekly. I cannot believe how quickly we are approaching the end of my pregnancy. Soon its going to be all over, so I am trying to enjoy what little bit of time being pregnant, and being a mommy to one child, that I can.
Well, that is all for now. This momma is beat!
Today I did go into Labor and Delivery because I had been cramping off and on the last three or four days. More so than cramping, I was getting a lot of very frequent Braxton-Hicks contractions. Although they are normal during pregnancy, I didn't feel that the frequency at which I was getting them was normal. Especially since I had been staying hydrated, and being sure not to over do it. A lot of the time they were happening when I was sitting or laying down, which was odd to me.
They monitored the baby's heart rate and also monitored any contractions I may have been having. They told me that it was really strange that they were able to pick baby up on the monitor so clearly since I am only 27 weeks along, and that even at 28 weeks they have a hard time picking up the baby as clear as they did with Isabelle... Thats a good thing, but it made the nurse wonder if maybe I am a little further along... Who knows...
Everything looked good so they decided to take me off of the monitors and then had me give a urine sample, and they also did a speculum exam where they took swabs to get cultures to check for any infection. Everything came back normal and I was told that I am probably just experiencing normal pregnancy symptoms but I was advised to come back if I experience any sort of bleeding or very painful contractions or cramping.
I am glad that everything was normal, it just sucks that I will probably have to just "deal" with the tightening for as long as it decides to last. I've been relaxing and trying to stay off of my feet for the rest of the day.
On Saturday we will be having our 3D ultrasound and I am so excited for that. I cant wait to get a glimpse of what our little Isabelle looks like, and to make sure she really is an Isabelle, and not an Ezra ;) I am looking forward to the DVD we will get with it too.
Next week I have an appointment with my midwife, and I believe it is my second to last monthly appointment... After that I will have appointments every two weeks until 38 weeks and then after that will be weekly. I cannot believe how quickly we are approaching the end of my pregnancy. Soon its going to be all over, so I am trying to enjoy what little bit of time being pregnant, and being a mommy to one child, that I can.
Well, that is all for now. This momma is beat!
Monday, September 22, 2014
23 Weeks Down, 17 to Go
Today was a good day. We took Bryelle to the park and had a picnic. It was really fun and something we haven't done with her til now. I think she enjoyed it though.
Lately my wrists and forearms have been hurting. I'm pretty sure its carpel tunnel. I had it with Bryelle too but not this bad I dont think. I am hoping if it continues the midwife will be able to let me know of something I can do to get some relief.
It was interesting to see my comparison pictures today. I am a lot smaller this time around. I am not complaining though!
Bryelle sure is going through her terrible 2's these days. She is driving me and her dad crazy. Today was exceptionally crazy. She had so much energy and wouldn't calm down. She finally got tired after throwing a fit and fell asleep. And to think we will go through all this over again with Isabelle. Oh well, it will be worth it.
Isabelle has been moving around and kicking me like crazy lately. She moves all day long. Most of her movement is still pretty low but I anticipate her moving up to my ribs fairly soon. This weekend we got her room picked up a little and realized that a lot of the clothes that Bryelle wore will work for Isabelle too. We just need to get some warm outfits for the winter. I just cant wait for her to be here and I can't believe in just four short months she will. A lot of people I know who are pregnant are due in the next couple of months, and most are having baby girls. Can't wait to see pictures of them all...
At my appointment the other day, the doctor said that Isabelle was growing right on track. This is good to hear. At least she isnt bigger than she is suppose to be at this point. I'm getting a little nervous thinking about how big she is going to be. I am sure it will be fine though. I have also gained close to 20 pounds already but the doctor said it was fine. Well, that is all for now. Stay tuned for my next update in a week.
Lately my wrists and forearms have been hurting. I'm pretty sure its carpel tunnel. I had it with Bryelle too but not this bad I dont think. I am hoping if it continues the midwife will be able to let me know of something I can do to get some relief.
It was interesting to see my comparison pictures today. I am a lot smaller this time around. I am not complaining though!
Bryelle sure is going through her terrible 2's these days. She is driving me and her dad crazy. Today was exceptionally crazy. She had so much energy and wouldn't calm down. She finally got tired after throwing a fit and fell asleep. And to think we will go through all this over again with Isabelle. Oh well, it will be worth it.
Isabelle has been moving around and kicking me like crazy lately. She moves all day long. Most of her movement is still pretty low but I anticipate her moving up to my ribs fairly soon. This weekend we got her room picked up a little and realized that a lot of the clothes that Bryelle wore will work for Isabelle too. We just need to get some warm outfits for the winter. I just cant wait for her to be here and I can't believe in just four short months she will. A lot of people I know who are pregnant are due in the next couple of months, and most are having baby girls. Can't wait to see pictures of them all...
At my appointment the other day, the doctor said that Isabelle was growing right on track. This is good to hear. At least she isnt bigger than she is suppose to be at this point. I'm getting a little nervous thinking about how big she is going to be. I am sure it will be fine though. I have also gained close to 20 pounds already but the doctor said it was fine. Well, that is all for now. Stay tuned for my next update in a week.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
22 Weeks
According to one of my pregnancy apps, Isabelle weighs about a pound these days. I am definitely starting to feel her wiggling around a lot more lately too. She kicks me all the time and I think she does flips at night because all day long I will feel her kicking really low, but first thing in the morning she always kicks up by my ribs. I have been getting heartburn every day for the last two weeks it seems. I'm anticipating it for the rest of my pregnancy and for only to get worse. Maybe, just maybe, Isabelle will have more hair than Bryelle did. 
Last week I decided I wasn't going to test my blood sugar anymore except for in the mornings for my fasting numbers. I am hoping to talk to the doctor on Thursday about my choice and see what they say about a second opinion. For now I am going to try and eat as healthy as I can, and really get into a good workout routine when I get back to Texas.
I am so excited to start decorating for fall and really start getting Isabelle's room together. I have lots if hand me down clothes to wash and put away. We are also planning on having a small garage sale in the near future to make more room in our home our new addition.
Im looking forward to the next few months. We will be getting Bryelle's 2nd birthday photos taken as well as having her second birthday party, maternity photos done, a baby shower in Texas, thanksgiving, Christmas (the first one we've spent in our own home) and then comes Isabelle. I have a feeling the next few months will fly by. I also started Isabelle's baby registry the other day and that was exciting. Not too much on it because we have a lot of what we need already. It was fun to look at baby things again. I know I say this every time almost but I still can't believe I will be having another baby. I don't think I will believe it until she is here. The second pregnancy is definitely different than the first.
Well that is all for now. Have a good night everyone. This mama is tired!
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Twenty-One
I can't believe I am over halfway done with this pregnancy. I actually still haven't wrapped my head around the fact that I will become a mommy of two. It is still so surreal that I am pregnant again, but I am thrilled to be doing it all over again. The infant stage is probably my favorite stage so far. There is nothing sweeter than the smell of a just-bathed baby, or the way they curl up when they first wake up, that first little giggle, or even just something as simple as when they fall asleep on your chest. I cannot wait to hold my second daughter. I hope that both of my daughters will someday look up to me and that I will guide them both in the right direction and be a good example for them.
My Braxton hicks contractions have gotten a little more frequent. I have been on my feet a lot so I'm sure that has something to do with it. I am trying to make sure that I get enough water intake. I don't think it's anything to be worried about but if they get worse I think I will mention it to my doctor at my next appointment.
Yesterday was the first day since I was "diagnosed" with gestational diabetes that I didn't check my blood sugar. It was my sisters wedding day and I really didn't have time to check it each time I was suppose to. Today I decided to do a little bit of research on gestational diabetes and what I found on it made me want to get a second opinion. Often times gestational diabetes is over-diagnosed. I have not have any numbers higher than 140 and that is normal for someone without gestational diabetes and without being pregnant, so why is it any different when someone is pregnant? It doesn't really make any sense to me. I also read that often times when a woman is pregnant her absorption of glucose slows down in order to be sure that the baby is getting the nutrients. From what it sounds like, it isn't a good idea to cut out carbs while pregnant. However, I do feel a little sick if I eat too many. I think I am just going to eat in moderation and not worry about my blood sugar. I am not worried that Isabelle will be too big. Bryelle was only 6 pounds 4 ounces when she was born. I am hoping that the doctor I see on the 18th will be able to explain things better to me about why the normal numbers for a non pregnant woman or person for that matter would be any different for a pregnant woman. From what I have read most women with gestational diabetes have numbers well into the 200s, and mine have never even been close to that. I'm not going to dwell on this. It will all be fine and so will Isabelle. 
Sunday, August 31, 2014
20 Weeks! Halfway Done!
We have been in California for my sisters wedding for the past few days. Her wedding is just under a week away. We've been doing little things here and there to get ready for the wedding. One being trying on my bridesmaid dress and getting it altered so it will fit just right.
I have had to watch my blood sugar still while we have been here and so far I've gotten good numbers except for the first night. I am really proud of myself for how well I am doing. I really am trying to avoid medicine at all costs. We have an appointment the day after we get back to see if my numbers have been good enough to be able to see a midwife again instead of a doctor. We shall see...
Besides being extremely exhausted this trimester, everything is good. I am feeling Isabelle move more and more every day. Her kicks and nudges are starting to get stronger and can be felt on the outside now. I can't wait for her to join our family. I always said I wanted a boy and a girl and then I would be done having kids, but I think my heart will be complete with my two little girls.
I am hoping my energy will come back soon but so far it's looking like it won't. I remember with Bryelle I had energy my whole second trimester and it was great. I guess havig a toddler this time around really is weighing me down. It will be ok though. I still have about 6 weeks left in this trimester to gain some energy back before I start getting really big.
Anyways, I don't have much of an update, but things are going well. That is all for now!
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Week 19 and Feeling Exhausted!
I literally feel like I could fall over at any second. I am so tired! I bet Isabelle is going through a growth spurt or something. I will definitely be sleeping good tonight.
With the discouraging day I had on Thursday at the doctors office, I will say that I have been doing really well with keeping my glucose levels where they should be. Except for today after lunch. I had too many carbs at lunch and my numbers were 11 above where they should be. Fortunately the doctor told me on Thursday that they mainly look at the fasting numbers so that is good. Still, I want to start being extra careful with what I eat. The hard part about following a diet for gestational diabetes is that if you want to eat something with a lot of carbs, you can only have a very small amount and you have to decide if it is worth it or not. Otherwise it's best to stick with foods that are low in carbs and high in protein so that you stay full longer. There is something so satisfying about something with a lot of carbs though. Not to mention I have a sweet tooth I inherited from both of my grandmas. Anyways, onto other things :)
Wednesday will be our first plane ride together as a family. Bryelle will be sitting on Bryan's lap and maybe some of the time on mine. I originally thought that my belly would be a bit bigger by now but I am actually doing really good! We are going to CA for my sisters wedding and it will be nice to get away and to see family and friends.
I really have to step up my game and watch really closely what I eat and make sure to get exercise while we are gone. It is my only chance to prove to the doctors that I can manage my diabetes with diet as well as exercise. I have an appointment the day after we get back so it literally is my only chance. I really don't want to have to take medication or be considered high risk so I will do what it takes to make sure that doesn't happen.
Yesterday we got down a bunch of boxes from the attic of clothes that were Bryelle's. The funny thing is we just put them up there back in April. Surprisingly she doesn't have as much newborn clothes as I thought she did. She was in newborn for quite a while. Even at 3 months her 3 month clothes were still really big so she still wore some newborn. I will have to get some more for Isabelle that are warm because since Bryelle was born in October it was not very cold. There are so many cute girl outfits out there. I bought the girls matching outfits for when Isabelle comes home from the hospital and I can't wait to see them both in them and take a picture of the two of them together. :)
Well, that is all for now. Talk to you all again soon :)
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Overwhelming Day!
First off, I did not see my normal midwife, as she was on vacation. Right away I didnt really get a good vibe from her. She seemed pushy and sarcastic. Totally not my style. I told her I was concerned that my glucometer may not be functioning properly. Since I did have a few high numbers she went out to search for a doctor to come and talk to me. The doctor told me that since half of my fasting numbers for the week were high, I need to either go on medication to get the numbers in control, or I need to really watch my diet and start exercising. I told the doctor that I didn't want to take medication and that I would be controlling it with diet and exercise. I pray that I will be able to, otherwise I will be considered high-risk and will have to see a DR for the remainder of my pregnancy and potentially have to be induced.
The OB told me that since I have a history of asthma that I need to go see an asthma specialist to set up an asthma action plan. I haven't really had any issues with my asthma since I was pregnant with Bryelle, so I feel like this is a waste of time.. Oh well, better safe than sorry I suppose.
Lastly, the OB asked me if I had any questions. I asked her a couple, and then I asked her if my weight gain was on track. I was expecting her to say yes since I had only gained 5.5 pounds at my last appointment, and I had only gained about 5 pounds since then... Well, my weight gain to her was NOT ok... She pretty much told me that since I started out overweight that I should have only gained TWO pounds total so far. I dont see how that is possible but it really upset me a lot. I left the doctors office almost in tears. I dont care what she says, I think I am doing really good. I am already almost halfway through my pregnancy and have only gained 10.7 pounds... That is pretty darn good if you ask me!
Anyways, although my day didnt start out the greatest, our ultrasound turned it all around! I cannot wait to meet my second daughter, Isabelle Grace!
PS. My Blood Pressure was good today, 118/77 and baby girls heartrate was in the 140's. :)
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Last Chance to Take a Guess!
Tomorrow is the big day! Stay tuned tomorrow for the updated version of the picture below to see what our little bundle of joy will be. :)
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
18 Weeks, Gender Scan Week!
I can't begin to describe how happy I am to see this week. I have been waiting for this week for a while now. In less than two days we will be getting to see our little one who we haven't seen in about two months. I'm sure so much has changed since the first time we saw him or her and now we will be finding out if this baby is a boy or girl. As long as the baby cooperates, we should know on Thursday. I am so anxious, I cannot wait.
I am still very torn on what I want the baby to be. It would only be natural for me to want a boy since I have a girl already, but at the same time it would be awesome to have another baby girl. Either way I will be happy but then again slightly disappointed. Not disappointed in the sense that I won't be happy for what I will be having, but just in the sense that I just wish I could have one of each and just get it over with. I guess we could always try for another later if we wanted to. Edited:*** I need to be mindful of those who cannot have children or who have been trying for many years, and be thankful that we were given this sweet gift, which I am--VERY grateful. No matter what the gender I will still be so happy, especially if the baby has a clean bill of health. That is all that matters. ***
On another note, my numbers for my blood glucose haven't been the greatest. They are pretty inconsistent actually. Some days they are good and other days they are a little higher than what they should be. I'm just praying that the next few days they stay in the range they are suppose to be and that it turns out that I won't have gestational diabetes. If I do, I know how to handle it, it's just not very fun.
I also wanted to add, I have been feeling the baby kick every day for the past week and it's amazing how fresh in my memory this feeling is from when I was pregnant with Bryelle. I love this part of being pregnant :)
Well, that is all for now. Stay tuned for the next blog entry which I think will be on Thursday after I find out what we are having :) 
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Four Finger-Pricks a Day, For Seven Days
In my last entry, I told you that I would be having to check my blood sugar for a week to make sure that I do not have gestational diabetes. That started today. So far I have had to check it three times and so far its been good. I am not sure why they are having me check it so early on in my pregnancy. Normally when they check for gestational diabetes its between 26-28 weeks, I believe. Maybe since I have already had it, they wanted to check sooner. Either way, I just hope that if all goes well for this coming week, I will be cleared and not have to be on that strict diet I was on with Bryelle. Not that I would really mind, I got to eat pretty much the same foods. I just had to limit the amounts that I ate if it was something with high carbs, which in turn made it almost not worth it at times.
Anyways, my first reading this morning was a little weird... It was 78, and I thought that was kind of low considering I ate a good amount of tortilla chips last night. So I tested again right after and it said 92, and then again and it said 90. So I am really not sure what number is the right one but I guess it will be fine... Then, two hours after I ate breakfast I tested again and it was 88. Two hours after lunch it was 92. These are all really good readings... In order for me to not be considered to have gestational diabetes, my fasting levels have to be 90 or below, and my levels two hours after a meal need to be below 120. So far I am doing really well. I just hope this keeps up through the weekend and the rest of the week. Normally people tend to consume more carbs over the weekend... At least I know I do.
Well, that is just a little update on what I have to do this week. Cannot believe that in a week we will hopefully find out if this is a baby boy or baby girl, and that in three days I will be 18 weeks along! Crazy how fast time is flying by. I am getting nervous for labor already and I still have a ways to go!
Well, that is all for now! Enjoy the rest of your week everyone!
Anyways, my first reading this morning was a little weird... It was 78, and I thought that was kind of low considering I ate a good amount of tortilla chips last night. So I tested again right after and it said 92, and then again and it said 90. So I am really not sure what number is the right one but I guess it will be fine... Then, two hours after I ate breakfast I tested again and it was 88. Two hours after lunch it was 92. These are all really good readings... In order for me to not be considered to have gestational diabetes, my fasting levels have to be 90 or below, and my levels two hours after a meal need to be below 120. So far I am doing really well. I just hope this keeps up through the weekend and the rest of the week. Normally people tend to consume more carbs over the weekend... At least I know I do.
Well, that is just a little update on what I have to do this week. Cannot believe that in a week we will hopefully find out if this is a baby boy or baby girl, and that in three days I will be 18 weeks along! Crazy how fast time is flying by. I am getting nervous for labor already and I still have a ways to go!
Well, that is all for now! Enjoy the rest of your week everyone!
Sunday, August 10, 2014
17 Weeks, 23 Weeks to Go!
Cant believe we are at 17 weeks already! I remember 17 weeks when I was pregnant with Bryelle and that is when I first started feeling her kick. I've been feeling this baby move for a few weeks now, and kicks for a couple weeks. Still nothing very consistent. We find out in a week and a half what we are having. The anticipation is killing me! I have been so tempted to make an appointment at the 3D ultrasound place, but we will wait. I am still getting a little nausea here and there even though I thought it was gone. Hopefully I don't end up like those women who have nausea their whole pregnancy! 
Today we took a bunch of stuff down from the attic. Mostly just gender neutral stuff. I don't want to take all the baby stuff down only to have to put most of it back up if the baby ends up being a boy, which I hope is the case! I want a boy, but I will be just as happy with a healthy baby girl.
Bryelle thought we took the baby stuff down for her. She was playing with some of it and putting her baby doll in the infant car seat. It was cute. I am wondering how she will take to having a new baby in the house. I think she is going to be a good big sister. I just hope she is a nice sister and shares with her baby brother or sister. I think she will do fine.
Thursday I start monitoring my blood sugar four times a day for a week. Not really fun but it's something I have to do to make sure I don't have gestational diabetes and it's better that having to drink that gross glucola drink! It may not taste bad but it sure makes you feel sick the rest of the day! No thanks!
Well, that is all for now. I still don't know how much weight I have gained since the last drs appointment but in a week and a half I will find out at the next one. Hoping it's under 5 pounds but we will see!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Week Sixteen
I didn't blog last week but nothing really changed much from the previous week. Here we are in week 16. I am 16 weeks and 2 days pregnant today and the baby's kicks have been getting stronger the last couple of days. I remember the first time Bryelle started kicking, like it was yesterday. I was 17.5 weeks when I felt the first kick with her. I've always heard that you feel the second baby sooner. That seems to be true in my case. :)
Last week we picked out some boy names. We have had a girl name picked out since early on, but I had the hardest time with choosing a boy name. I am pretty sure that we have our boys name picked out now. I can't wait to find out what I am having. I will be happy either way. Only 2 weeks left til we have our ultrasound :)
I was able to go to the gym yesterday after being unable to get up the energy to go for the last few months. I am hoping to keep it up and go at least three times a week. Gotta keep myself and this baby healthy! My nausea is almost completely gone too but if I don't eat enough during the day I start feeling weak and sick.
I have been really tired lately though. It's been hard to get anything done around this house because my energy levels are so low. I'm hoping in a few weeks I will get some energy back :)
Other than not having energy, everything is going good. I'm curious to know how much weight I have gained now. My scale stopped working and I haven't gotten new batteries for it yet.
Well that is all for now. :)
Sunday, July 27, 2014
14 Week Happenings
This past Tuesday we had our 14 week check up. The baby's heart rate was 163 and my weight is going up at a good rate. My blood pressure looked awesome too which is a good thing. We got to schedule our second trimester ultrasound where we will get to find out the baby's sex. We are so excited and can't wait for that day! August 21st!
During my appointment we also talked about my last pregnancy and how I had gestational diabetes. I opted out this time around to do the glucose test where I would have to drink the glucola. I have heard not so good things about what that drink is made out of, so I requested that I do a week long finger prick test instead. So, before my next appointment I will need to test my blood sugar four times a day. I will then bring my meter to my next appointment and they will hook it up to a computer to get my readings and evaluate them to determine if I will need to monitor my blood sugar the remainder of my pregnancy, go on a special diet, or in a worst case scenario take pills or administer shots. Let's pray that I won't resort to having to do the latter.
Other than all that everything is going good and my nausea is finally starting to come to an end. Yay! My clothes have started getting a little snug around my middle but that is to be expected. Feeling a little more movement here and there and I think I may have even felt a couple of gentle kicks yesterday but I am not sure.
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