The Third Murray......We're a Handful!

The Birth

2006-08-17T11:04:00.000-04:00

It's been quite some time now, and I haven't posted the birth story. Life gets pretty hectic with 3 kids, but I'll take the time to do it now.

We were scheduled to have an induction on July 5th, at 8am. We woke up late, as usual, and arrived at the hospital around 8:30. Doc broke my water, and by 9 or so, things were rolling. Pitocin started, no contractions yet.

Now you'll have to forgive me as I have no timeline to work with. Ted had the times down, but I wasn't paying too much attention to the clock.

When the contractions started, they weren't bad at first. It took about an hour for them to get strong. When they got unbearable, I called for the magic man/anesthesiologist. Sadly, it took about an hour to get the epidural working. Boy, I was really wishing I hadn't waited that late to ask for one.

Anyway, the epi kicked in, and things started numbing. Feeling pretty good, at first. Then very light headed and nauseous. Turns out my blood pressure dropped to a very low 59/37. Not good. I'm not certain how long it stayed that way before it came back up, but let me tell you, it wasn't a good feeling.

Once the BP came up, I started feeling better. Lots of pressure around 4pm, and I was told to go ahead and push at 4:30. So I did. Push, and Push and Push. Turns out this kid wanted to have a face up view of the world, and from what they tell me, that makes for a harder delivery. No kidding.

45 minutes of pushing, and she arrived. At 5:16pm, we welcomed Laura Cathy into the world. She weighed a whopping 8 lbs 11 oz (despite being born 5 days early) and got 9 and 10 on her apgars (very odd from what the doc said).

She was beautiful from day one, and she's still beautiful. Here's my (now) 6 week old baby girl. We waited 5 long years for this kid to show up.

Our family is now complete. Welcome to the world Laura!

38 weeks and holding...

2006-06-29T15:31:00.000-04:00

Today was my 38 week appt. It's getting close to the end, but not close enough. Had alot of contractions last night, and very uncomfortable in general, but no go at the doctor this morning. They haven't checked me since 36 weeks (when I showed at 3cm) and I'm wondering why, but I guess the doctors know best, right? My doc told me this morning that we'd meet next week and discuss induction if I wanted. Well, I don't really want to be induced. I'd like to do this one natural, since both the other two were inductions, but what I'm more concerned about is not knowing what's going on.

Is is totally normal to be this miserable, or to have contractions this strong and nothing come of it? I mean, I guess I just don't know myself as well as I thought I did, and that's what's bothering me so much today.

So what am I doing? Sitting and waiting. I'm at home, waiting for the day to arrive, waiting for some sign of actual labor, waiting for anything. I don't know when it will happen, all I know is that it will at some point.

Let's hope for sooner rather than later!

What a gap in time...

2006-06-08T14:22:00.000-04:00

30 weeks was my last post, this past monday marked 35 weeks. Can you tell I've been a bit busy and pre-occupied?

Let's run down what's happened in the last 5 weeks.

I've been put into Labor and Delivery once (for reasons not worth mentioning)

We've finished the boys bedroom, and they're successfully sleeping as brothers next to each other. It only took really two days to get it all straightened out and they're doing great!

The doc just put me out of work yesterday, so tomorrow is my last day working. Hopefully I can catch up on some sleep in the next few weeks...I"ve been averaging 2-3 hours per night for the last week or so. It's starting to wear on me.

Little girls clothes are done. I just need to wash and get them put up in her dresser. Daddy still needs to build the crib, table and swing, but that will need to be done after I get the room cleaned out. Shooting for this weekend to complete that task.

After that's done, we're ready to go! I still need to pack bags and get things ready for the hospital, but if I work on that, it will only take about an hour, so no big deal.

Perhaps the most exciting news of all, my friend is pregnant! She's going to be a fantastic mother and I'm as thrilled for her as I was for us and our kids! Congrats J, you're going to do just fine!

Being out of work will probably give me a bit more time to post on here and keep tabs. For now, here's another belly shot. This was taken last week, at 34 weeks. Looks like a big old basketball doesn't it?

Shel

30 weeks, been a long time

2006-05-03T14:56:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's been two weeks since I posted on here. Time sure gets away from you when you're completely busy.

Steven's 5th birthday party was a couple of weekends ago. What a huge success that was! We had 10 kids turn out and they all seemed to have a great time! I love the birthday parties...especially the ones I don't have to work for :)

Mother's Day is less than two weeks from now. It's a hard time of the year to deal with, after losing Mom. She never got to spend a Mother's Day as a grandmother, and that will always be a thought in my mind. I was just sitting here thinking of the first Mother's Day I had, back in 2001. I had a 1 month old son, was just elated with life in general, and Ted gave me the most wonderful presents (photo albums and frames). How thoughtful to give a new mother a medium to show off her newest little person! I was ecstatic. Now this year, I approach my last Mother's Day as the mom of two. Time has flown by much too fast.

Steven also "outed" me after dinner the other night. As we finished and got ready to leave, the topic turned to ages...when he decided the entire restaurant needed to know I was 33 years old :( Thanks son, I really appreciate that.

Back on topic. Our 30 week appt was this morning, all is well. In fact, so well that I think I may have disappointed the staff. Everything they asked me was answered with the standard "fine".

How are you feeling? Fine.

Anything unusual going on? No, I'm Fine.

Any problems we should be aware of? Nope, still fine.

Stop eating everything you see. Fine. (yeah, right)

Maybe next time I'll try to present with a rare, made up, off the wall illness just to spice up the conversation a bit.

2 weeks from now, appt for week 32! We're getting close!

28 weeks...counting the days

2006-04-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

I've actually accomplished something! The boys bunk beds are being delivered today. Whew. It's so nice to have something crossed off the list. Of course, crossing off the bunk beds means I still have to focus on painting, buying mattresses, switching rooms, etc. Hey, it's a start right?

Yesterday was Steven's 5th birthday. Wow. 5 years flies by like nothing. He's so excited to be 5. He talked about it all day long. We spent the entire day as a family, museum/aquarium site seeing, out to eat, park time, etc. It was really a nice day. I think he had a great time. Tomorrow is his birthday party. A real "big kid" party too. Up until now, it's all been family parties at our house. I'm really looking forward to this one.

I also spent about an hour in the doctors office on Wednesday getting a nice big Rhogam shot and having blood drawn. What fun that was! Now we're set to have appointments every two weeks. The end is very near...and very scary.

That movie with Sigourney Weaver

2006-04-11T14:21:00.000-04:00

You all remember that movie...Alien...the scene where the alien was just about to pop out of the guys stomach? If you've seen that movie (or just that scene) you now know what my stomach looks like. No joking, the jerks and carryings on in there are scary to behold. My first two pregnancies were more about jabbing and kicking. This one seems to be about nauseating motion and creeping out bystanders. In a sick way, it's pretty awesome watching their reactions. Enjoy it while I can right?

So yesterday marked the 3rd trimester. I'm 2/3 of the way there already. This time is flying by. Very unfair, since I usually enjoy being pregnant so much (this time included) but it just doesn't seem long enough.

I can officially place objects in a balanced state on top of my stomach. That means it's sticking out far enough that I can (literally) eat off it. Cool. That will save on the strength that I am so seriously lacking lately.

27 weeks also marks time to take another belly pic. You should be seeing that in the next few days. Be prepared for a shock. It looks like I'm all of a sudden, giving birth to a hippo baby.

Another Week, Getting Close

2006-04-07T08:56:00.000-04:00

This coming Monday will mark 27 weeks. Some say that's the beginning of the third trimester...and what do I have to show for it?

Well, let's see. I've bought the coming home outfit (along with socks to match - what a nerd huh?). I've got the carseat, but yet to put it into the cars to make sure it all fits well. I've got her shoes to wear from the hospital, and I've got some odds and ends I'll need (bottles, etc) but that's it. I really need to get on the ball.

This past tuesday, we went to the hospital for their tour. I have to tell you, it's pretty much the same everywhere, except the room that I'll be staying in for the last part fo the stay. Much nicer (and bigger) than the one I had with the boys. There's actually room for someone to come in and visit! Wow, imagine that!

Ted and I are off this weekend to see how much we can cram into 2 days with no boys. We're spending an adults only weekend (first since 2001). I'm looking forward to it in a way, but at the same time...I have no idea how I'll manage without the kids. I wonder if they'll miss us? I hope they'll be alright.

Have a great weekend!

Here they are

2006-03-28T19:50:00.000-05:00

2 shots from the 3d ultrasound. It went well I think. We got 27 pictures in all, and about 45 minutes worth of dvd footage. Personal opinion? Much better than the standard 2d ultrasounds.

Here you are. My little girl. (also, confirmed once again. I think I'm happy enough to consider it definite now)

Today's the day!

2006-03-28T09:24:00.000-05:00

We're off for the 3d Ultrasound this afternoon! I'm so excited! I never had this opportunity with the boys, so this will be one of the few brand new experiences during this pregnancy. I can't wait to see the pictures. We're taking Steven with us, he's pretty jazzed about seeing the baby on a tv. I hope he understands what he's looking at (I hope Ted and I understand what we're looking at, ultrasounds aren't known for their clarity).

Hopefully I'll have pics to upload tonight from it too!

Bob Seger just cheered me up!

2006-03-24T11:10:00.000-05:00

I was just sitting here lamenting the fact that I'm expecting my third child, I'm pushing "mid-30's" and just seriously missing my youth.

Then this comes on the radio...

So you’re a little bit older and a lot less bolder than you used to be
So you used to shake ’em down, But now you stop and think about your dignity
So now sweet sixteens turned thirty-one
You get to feelin’ weary when the work days done
Well all you got to do is get up and into your kicks
If you’re in a fix
Come back baby, Rock and roll never forgets

You better get yourself a partner
Go down to the concert or the local bar
Check the local newspapers. Chances are you won’t have to go too far
Yeah the rafters will be ringing cause the beat’s so strong
The crowd will be swaying and singing along
And all you got to do is get in into the mix
If you need a fix
Come back baby, Rock and roll never forgets

Oh the bands still playing it loud and lean
Listen to the guitar player making it scream
All you got to do is just make that scene tonight

Well now sweet sixteens turned thirty-one
Feel a little tired feeling under the gun
Well all chuck’s children are out there playing his licks
Get into your kicks

Come back baby, Rock ’n roll never forgets

Thanks Bob. I needed that ;)

24 Week Appt Update

2006-03-24T09:42:00.000-05:00

Went in for my 24 week appt yesterday. For those who don't know, 24 weeks is when they test you for gestational diabetes. That test involves consuming about 15 lbs of sugar (flavored like fruit punch) and waiting 1 hour with no food or drink to measure your glucose tolerance. Since it take a while for the blood test to come back, I can't tell you definitely what my tolerance is, but I can tell you yesterday was no fun.

That is one of the longest hours of my life. This time at least, the beverage doesn't taste all that horrible. We bought some store brand fruit punch for the kids a couple of weeks ago..it resembled that taste, so it wasn't completely unbearable.

The effects kicked in about 15 minutes after I finished. Fuzzy skin feeling, light headedness, the jitters, etc. All this compounded by a budding soccer star kicking the devil out of me because of all the sugar I just made her ingest. It's like being on a massive caffeine rush. I didn't come down from this hugh until about 30 minutes after I ate lunch. What an exhausting day!

March 28 = our scheduled 3D ultrasound (for fun)
March 29 = the day I purchase the pink carseat (after final confirmation of the sex)
April 6 = my last ultrasound (to make sure everything is A-OK)
April 19 = our next appt (28 weeks) then every 2 weeks after that until the 9th month.

Time is going by WAY too fast.

Pink Pink and more Pink

2006-03-20T07:59:00.000-05:00

That's all I can bear to look at while shopping/browsing for baby stuff. I can hardly believe it myself, since I'd been so anti-pink for the first 5 months. I mean, I'm even looking at this carseat

I've been perusing the baby clothing sections while I'm shopping for other things too, and I'm always drawn to the pink attire first. Best I can figure, it's because this is my last shot. I didn't get to purchase anything remotely "girly" for the first two, so I'm making up for it with this one.

My luck it'll turn out to be another Steven experience and Ted will end up taking the carseat in for an exchange before we come home from the hospital. There's no way we could allow a boy to ride home in a girls carseat.

Today is 6 months by the way. I'm officially shocked at how fast the time is going. And once again, I've done nothing to prepare. I guess I'd better get on the ball and get things moving. This kid sure won't wait for me to get my act in gear.

Well, I did buy those pink shoes this weekend. How cute are they?

The joys of Parenthood

2006-03-15T16:40:00.000-05:00

A boss wondered why one of his most valued employees had not phoned in sick one day. Having an urgent problem with one of the main computers, he dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child's whisper.

"Hello."

"Is your daddy home?" he asked.

"Yes," whispered the small voice.

"May I talk with him?"

The child whispered, "No."

Surprised and wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?"

"Yes."

"May I talk with her?"

Again the small voice whispered, "No."

Hoping there was somebody with whom he could leave a message, the boss asked, "Is anybody else there?"

"Yes," whispered the child, "a policeman".

Wondering what a cop would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked, "May I speak with the policeman?"

"No, he's busy," whispered the child.

"Busy doing what?"

"Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the Fireman," came the whispered answer.

Growing more worried as he heard what sounded like a helicopter through the earpiece on the phone, the boss asked, "What is that noise?"

"A helicopter," answered the whispering voice.

"What is going on there?" demanded the boss, now truly apprehensive.

Again, whispering, the child answered, "The search team just landed the helicopter."

Alarmed, concerned and a little frustrated the boss asked, "What are they searching for?"

Still whispering, the young voice replied with a muffled giggle......."Me."

The Belly Pic - 22 weeks

2006-03-15T15:28:00.000-05:00

Stunning, ain't it? (I had no idea my hair was that long!!!)

Some Pregnancy Comics

2006-03-14T11:01:00.000-05:00

How much bigger?

2006-03-14T10:35:00.000-05:00

Well, it happened last night. For the first time officially, I was offered help getting up from the floor. Yes, I'm now that big. Of course, I declined the offer, but it was made nonetheless. I don't think it helps that I'm having this hip pain too...hip problems will make you waddle when you walk. So now I'm not only getting bigger, I'm walking around like an extremely obese duck. Well, at least my boobs hurt, because that just seems to make it all so much better :)

Ah the joys of motherhood.

OH YEAH, Don't forget to check the Pregnancy Reflection page here . I update it each month with new data.

Burritos, National Geographic and Digital Cameras

2006-03-08T10:45:00.000-05:00

So do you like Mexican food? I love Mexican food, always have. A good plate of enchiladas and burritos suits me just fine. Not too spicy, just right.

That is, until I got pregnant.

Now I LOVE Mexican food. I mean, I crave it. Last night I made chicken enchiladas. After 3, I was a little upset that I didn't make more. I think there may be a trip to Plaza in my near future to fill that void (say around lunchtime today). And I'm not the only one. Little girl loves Mexican food too. Usually about 15 minutes after I start eating, she starts the acrobatics, and doesn't quit until she's done with her meal. Ted posed the theory that she can hear the food coming and gets excited. (A National Geographic show that told us the babies can hear the food moving around). Perhaps it's anticipation? Maybe Mexican food sounds different in the digestive tract? Does this have anything to do with my two boys obsession lately with maracas? Surely I don't know.

22 weeks and counting. Time for another belly shot too. I've started merging those together so we can track the progress of all pregnancies, and compare and contrast. At this point, I'm a bit larger than with the last two. Nana likes to say it's because "I look like I've put on ALOT more weight this time". Sheesh. Why not just say the word fat? May sting a little, but at least it's straight forward :)

I don't care. I make big, healthy babies. Batting 2 for 2 right now...I have no reason to think otherwise with this one. But still keeping the fingers crossed for the best. You never know.

A picture for you all

2006-03-03T19:50:00.000-05:00

A very good shot of her face. Ultrasound #2 (today at 21 weeks) informs us that we still have a girl, so our odds are standing pretty good now. She was very stubborn for the tech, but that just means the odds are higher it's a girl, right?

Either way, here's a shot for you.

Nice profile of her face. Pretty self explanatory too I think. She's very photogenic...I think she takes after me :)

Just call me Rosy

2006-02-28T11:18:00.000-05:00

At least, that's the new description my boss used to describe me. Funny, I don't feel very "rosy". If you're going to go floral with the descriptors, I'd probably choose thorny or prickly, not rosy.

The 2nd level ultrasound is scheduled for Friday. Seems as though we'll get at least one more shot of little girl before the end nears. If history holds, we should have ample time to have another set or two of ultrasounds. Usually our kids like to hang in for a while, but I don't know. Everything else about this one has been different, maybe she'll come early and surprise us all. Boy, I hope not. I still haven't done ANYTHING to prepare for this one. I'd better get on the ball.

Reflections on this weekend

2006-02-27T08:26:00.000-05:00

The party for Nana went well I think. I had many compliments on it, and Nana seemed very pleased. It was not a surprise, however, a specific 4 year old spilled the beans! No matter, it was still fun and everyone had a good time. What can you expect from 4 year olds really? It had to happen eventually.

I also didn't realize how "cute" I was pregnant. At least, that's what everyone tells me.

Oh, aren't you cute!

Look how cute you are!

What a cute belly!

yuk

I'm certain there are many more adjectives that could be used in place of that word. How about

Oh, aren't you tired!

Look how big you are!

What a enormous belly!

Yeah, I like those better.

There are also alot of people that love to touch a pregnant woman's belly. To all those that fit into the category, let me ask a question. What are you expecting to feel? Are you hoping to find that one small space in time when a kick will be in perfect unison with your touch? (ask my husband how difficult that timing is to master) I honestly don't understand, as I never felt the urge before or while not pregnant.

Christopher is now realizing what's going on. He tried to jump on my stomach last night. When I protested, he got visibly upset. I explained to him once again that there was a baby in my belly, and he had to be careful.

This is when the light bulb turned on. He then tried to look inside my belly button and see the baby. He talked to my stomach, and rubbed on it...just as if the child was lying right next to me. What a beautiful innocence. Steven was a year younger then Christopher is now when he was percolating, so all this interest and fascination is new to me. Of course, the moment passes as soon as the two boys debate on what happens if they start putting money in your belly button too. Hey, you hope for those wonderful moments, grab them for the short duration of their visit, and casually move on.

Drum roll please....

2006-02-24T15:40:00.000-05:00

Yes, Virginia

(and other surrounding states and localities)...

it is a girl.

Unmistakable 3 lines on the ultrasound...Gonna be a whole different roller coaster ride this time.

1 more day...

2006-02-21T09:58:00.000-05:00

of being 32. I can't believe the time has gone by this fast. I'll be 33 tomorrow, and in 4 months, have my third child. Third child...if you had told me 5 years ago that there would be 3, I'd have never believed you. I always pictured myself with at least one, MAYBE two, but never more than that. I'm still not sure at this point how to handle that many kids. My patience is already wearing thin with the boys.

The boys. Let me tell you about the boys. Let me tell you about the joys of being a mother to two boys. Let me tell you about the fights, and the wrestling, and the yelling

and then...

let me tell you about the games they play together, and about the jokes they tell and the games they make up that only they understand, and the words and sounds they make up just to hear the other one laugh. It's truly something amazing watching siblings interact. Makes me a little sad that I never got to experience that for myself.

Well, Ted has promised me a shopping trip to purchase a new kitchen table and chairs for my birthday. I've wanted one for so long, now I actually have to decide which one to get. It's exciting buying new furniture. I have it narrowed down to two sets. We'll see which one I come home with :)

2 days until the ultrasound! Are you excited?

Even more good news

2006-02-17T09:41:00.000-05:00

Last night Ted felt the baby kick for the first time. This may not sound that unusual to most people, but to us, this is a huge turn of events.

You see, with the first two kids, he had a hard time telling what was motion and what wasn't from early on. Then as the kids got further along, they would actually stop moving and be really still every time he put his hand on my stomach. It was as if they knew and were just messing with him. No kidding, every time. I always felt really bad, like there was actually something I could do about it.

Not with this baby.

Last night, I mentioned that there was alot of kicking, and did he want to try feeling it. So okay, as soon as he put his hand on my stomach, this kid went nuts. It's as if this baby knew what was going on and decided to put on a floor show. Pretty awesome, I have to tell you. He described the feelings as "heartbeats". You know, I never thought of it that way, but that's the perfect way to describe it. When you feel it from the outside, it's just like putting your hand over your heart. Thump thump thump.

I'm a much happier person now. This always brings it home when he can feel the kid moving around. Makes it more real for both of us.

Oh, and 7 days until the ultrasound!

Today is a new day

2006-02-16T12:55:00.000-05:00

And I'm getting beaten up for it. I just posted last that there was nothing new going on, and then today happened. All of a sudden, this kid has patterns. I can tell when it's sleeping, or still at least, and I can tell when it's having a fit :) Usually early in the morning when I first get to work, for about a half hour, then nothing until around lunchtime...then not much again until early evening, then right before bed.

Anyone see the pattern here?

It's mealtimes! This kid is active when it's time to eat. How cool is that? It's like my own personal hunger alarm. So as I'm typing this, it's almost 1pm and I'm getting kicked all over the place. Time to run out for some lunch!

Not much to update

2006-02-14T13:25:00.000-05:00

Today marks 10 days until the ultrasound. I'm so excited I can't stand it. I certainly hope the results are what we want them to be (a healthy baby among other things)

Not much to update in the last week really. Nothing new going on with me, our home situation is normal and steady...the kids have been off and on sick (again). Steven has a cold coming on, and Christopher is just getting over double ear infections (again) and I think he's getting another cold. Boy, I can't wait for warm weather. The winter really does these kids in.

One new development on the baby front. Christopher was playing with the doctor kit last night, and wanted to listen to the babies heartbeat. When he put his little stethoscope on my stomach he said "Sounds good Mommy" and the baby started jumping all over the place! I know at this age (19 weeks) they can hear pretty well, I wonder if this one was actually responding to the big brother's voice? How cool is that?

We've also started taking belly shots and will do so every couple of weeks. I'll be putting together a collage comparing the first two kids with this one...I'll post the picture soon for week 17. You'll be shocked at how big I am :)

Test Results are in...

2006-02-03T10:25:00.000-05:00

And the AFP (Triple Screen) came back with no problems. You have no idea what a relief that is to hear. I've been so paranoid since finding out about this pregnancy that there was something wrong. I don't know why, I just have. It's very nice to know the first preliminary test came back normal.

Kid is still kicking away, even though Ted still doesn't believe it. :) What am I gonna do with this man?

Steven has started giving me one extra kiss each night before bed for the baby. He will also walk up to me out of the blue and holler at my stomach. I've told him that the baby can hear him now, and he's certainly taking advantage of it. What a riot.

The dreams have subsided for now. I'm not sure if that's a phase, or if it's just because I haven't been sleeping. I'm starting to wake up a couple of times each night (what fun) and now it's getting harder to sleep on my back. Ah, the joys of impending motherhood!

Oh yeah, only 20 days until the ultrasound!

Disbelief

2006-01-30T10:12:00.000-05:00

So I've felt this baby kicking for a couple of weeks now, which is not uncommon from what I know and read. Especially with subsequent pregnancies, movements are felt quicker than the first. With Steven, I felt him kick around 18 weeks, with Christopher it was the end of 15 weeks. This one, right on queue at the end of 15 weeks.

Now I ask you, why is that so hard for Ted to believe? His standard response...Eh, it's gas. Hey man, I know the difference between gas and a person kicking me in the stomach. Sheesh. Men.

17 weeks. I'm almost half way there and I can't for the life of me figure out where the time is going. I haven't done anything outside of buying some nursery supplies for the baby. I still have to get the rooms organized, move the boys into their room together, and get the nursery setup. Not to mention buying a new carseat (or two), buying the few things we'll need to replenish from the last two (bottles, diapers etc). I've been telling myself that I'll wait until we find out what the sex is, but I'm running out of time fast. I guess this weekend will be a busy one. I'm off to go bunk bed shopping.

Too many weird dreams this weekend to tell you about. Nothing really stood out, so stay tuned for the next installment.

16 week Appt Update

2006-01-27T09:50:00.000-05:00

It's a GIRL!

GOTCHA. No, not really, I'm kidding. We won't know that until February 23rd, when our ultrasound is scheduled. And if we don't know it then, we'll have another one, and so forth until I'm satisfied with the results being 100%.

Appt went well, it was the first one we've ever had that lasted about 65 seconds.

How are you feeling?

Fine.

Good, let's find a heartbeat.

Thump...Thump...140, right on track.

OK, the nurse will take some blood on the way out, see you next month!

No kidding, that's how long it took. Wonder if we can get this guy to deliver the kid in July?

So, on February 23rd, stay tuned for an update that will rock the world, or at least, rock our world. Either way, I think I'm going to pass out when I hear the sex of this baby, so it's a good thing I'll be lying down when they tell us.

As for my crazy pregnancy dream last night...well, I can't tell you, but rest assured, it was just as crazy as the others have been :)

More odd dreams and some gymnastics

2006-01-25T08:40:00.000-05:00

OK last nights dream involved some old friends from high school, and Dave Attell. Ted and I were staying at their house, but it was actually 1991 all over again. Dave Attell was drunk all the time, and we couldn't figure out why, but he wasn't funny. Wonder where that part of it came from? Mostly our days and my dream consisted of hanging out at their house, having some drinks and always running out of cigarettes. Good times?

Today is my 16 week doc appt. Should get to hear the heartbeat and schedule the ultrasound appt. I'll post when we get that situated. That should be the most exciting day until the kid gets here.

As for the kicking update, I seem to get punched and hit on a regular basis after dark. This little 3 ounce person can do some pretty good moving when he/she wants to. I had forgotten what a cool feeling that was though, sort of like someone tapping their fingers on your stomach rapidly. These are the simple joys in life.

Long Weekend

2006-01-23T09:11:00.000-05:00

The Braxton hicks are really starting to get on my nerves. It's pretty much constant since saturday night now, and I walk around like I'm on crutches. It's really pathetic.

My next appt is this wednesday afternoon. Should be about 2 weeks to a month before I get my ultrasound. I'm looking forward to that. I'd like to be able to use him/her when referring to the baby, instead of IT.

I've also ordered and now received all the new baby stuff that I'm purchasing for this one. There's a line of baby gear that wasn't available when Steven was born, that I've decided to go with for this one. I've used the same stuff this whole time, I think it's about time to get something new. This will be the last time we do this, let's make sure we have fun with it.

Crazy dream update...

Last night, I dreamt that a friend of ours came over to eat lasagna. This may not sound wierd to you, but the fact that we had to eat in it our pajamas sitting on the bed felt a little "odd".

Odd dream of the day

2006-01-19T13:31:00.000-05:00

Forgot to add last night's weird dream.

Ted came home from "somewhere" with great news. He'd been playing one on one with some pro basketball player and they guy was coming over to our house! Now I know the guys face, but I can't tell you who he was.

Anyway, here's the odd part. Ted had to rush to build a skateboard ramp in the living room before he got there, in case the guy wanted to skate...HUH? So that's how it ended, the guy was skating in the living room with Ted, and he was having a blast. Oh yeah, and the ball player gave us handheld versions of his game to play too.

I can't wait until tonight's dream.

How many D's in Ultrasound?

2006-01-19T13:28:00.000-05:00

Answer? 4. At least 4 in the ultrasound we'll be getting.

No, the doctor doesn't have the facility to do 4-d ultrasounds, but I found a place in Chesapeake that will do them for us. They offer two packages, 1 for just gender prediction and it includes a couple of B&W photos, for $85. Or we can wait until I'm 24 weeks, then get one with video, color photos and all kinds of data for $150. I'm opting for the first one, selfishly of course. I want to know now...boy or girl.

I'll call and setup an appt next week, after my 16 week OB visit. They should be scheduling me for the 2-d ultrasound then as well. Wonder if they'll be able to tell the gender this time? Ah, who cares, I'll find out one way or the other!

Movin on...

2006-01-18T09:42:00.000-05:00

So last night, while watching TV, this kid finally moved! Well, moved so I could feel it at least. It's about time too, I might add. WIth Christopher, it was 15 weeks, 6 days when I first felt the kick, yesterday was 15 weeks 2 days so I'm right on target. In fact, while sitting at my desk this morning, it happened again. So begins a long 5 month journey of getting beaten up on a daily basis!

I think Dad and I will start taking pictures soon of my stomach. Much to my dismay, it's starting to grow now visibly. So we'll have to work on documentation for that.

I kept a pregnancy journal for the first two kids, but decided to do things a bit different with this third one. Most everything is different with each new child, but I like the journal aspect...I will just write this one in general, not specifically to the baby. I want my kids to have something to read when they're grown, so they can know just what it was like for Mom to carry them for 9 months (and then some).

We all went out to dinner last night, and it dawned on me that once the baby is here, we will have to start sitting in the BIG tables. No more 4 tops for us. It's the big family tables in the back if we want to go out and eat! I also read a bit of a journal yesterday written by a woman about her Big family. She had 3 kids. Since when does 3 kids equal a BIG family? I figured that was about average? Guess I was wrong.

Latest strange pregnancy dream?

> Last night I dreamt I lost my license for mouthing off to a police officer. They gave me a card in place of my license that said "this lady can't drive, she can't keep her mouth shut" :)

Which Name to pick?

2006-01-12T08:59:00.000-05:00

Our latest issue is picking names. We've always had a name picked for a girl, but since that hasn't worked out the best our first two tries, we're going with something new this time. So Laura is no more. Sad to see it go, but it just seems to be a jinx.

We've been asking Steven what his thoughts were on the subject, thinking that if he came up with something good we'd go with it, and he'd be thrilled.

So our first attempt, I ask him what names he thinks would be good if the baby is a brother... His response?

Conroy.

I believe we'll keep thinking about it :)

No, we're not going to tell anyone what the names are until the baby gets here. Sorry, but just can't do that. I've become extremely superstitious here recently, and I think it's a jinx to tell names before it's time. So you'll all have to wait.

Long day Friday

2006-01-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

So I did take off yesterday and did alot of work in the house. I gave away about 1/3 of the toys the boys have collected over the past 4 years. I found a church down the road that takes them and gives them to other families. Couldn't think of a better place to send them. 1 really huge box, 6 bags and some big ticket items. The kids don't even miss them.

They did notice how nice their rooms looked, and I swear, since then they've actually been trying to keep the toys picked up. Won't that be nice?

We're going to try to get them into the same room within the next couple of weeks. It will be better to do it early, so they can adjust before the baby gets here. And since I'm feeling better, I'd better take advantage of the free time in the next few months.

Now I'm off to tend to cleaning closets. Wish me luck, I may not see the light of day for a week :(

Crap...

2006-01-05T16:15:00.000-05:00

I can tell you that now that my belly is officially showing. I can't keep it a secret anymore,although I'm trying REALLY hard. Of course, baggy shirts and big belts are helping some. They certainly weren't kidding with the "you show faster the more kids you have" line. Hopefully I won't have to transition to the mommy clothes for at least a couple more months <wishful thinking

These Dreams

2006-01-05T13:42:00.000-05:00

What is it with the crazy pregnant dreams? I don't remember getting these wierd dreams with my first two. Just in the last couple of nights, my house has been broken into, I've had to work on a car, and I've been violently ill from a horrible disease...all in my dreams.
Trust me, they may not sound that strange to you, but take a few minutes to lurk around in my dream world, you'll understand what I mean.

A Busy Weekend

2006-01-04T13:43:00.000-05:00

Today is Wednesday and it feels like Monday. I've been going since Thursday night. Tara's father passed away on Christmas, and the wake was on Thursday. Ted and I went to that, then spent the morning at the funeral on Ft. Eustis. He sounded like a really good man. Very sad.

Ted and I went out with some friends to a hockey game on Friday night, and had such a good time. I mean, I can't explain how much fun it was. I'm so glad I went. I needed that.

Saturday we spent the whole day at home, then Sunday did pretty much the same thing. Since we both had Monday off, we did some shopping, and I just feel exhausted!

I'm officially 13 weeks pregnant, which means the baby is about the size of a peach. Steven is getting a huge kick out of that too. He loves to show people how big the baby is. I'm sort of looking forward to showing a bit more, maybe that will keep him from the playtime that always involves a shot to the stomach. He doesn't mean to do it, but it always ends up that way.

The fatigue is getting much better, and I actually feel like doing some thing now. I think I will take Friday off work and start cleaning out closets. WHEE! That sure will be fun! Start with #1 on the list of things to do and just keep moving, right?

A New Day?

2005-12-28T13:45:00.000-05:00

All of a sudden, I don't feel pregnant anymore. Well, at least, I don't feel 25 lbs overweight. This past Monday marked 3 months into this. I'm 1/3 of the way there, and it feels like I just began. I have so much to do, and so little time to do it.

Now I wake up this morning, and my waistline is returning, my clothes fit a little better, and I'm not feeling ill or light-headed. I wonder if this is the calm before the storm. I also wonder if this pregnancy is so incredibly different because it's a girl this time. Boy, I really hope that's the case. I think the boys need a girl to balance them out. They're so rough and tumble, it would be nice to have someone in the house with a softer side.

Here's to wishing!

After Christmas Blahs

2005-12-27T13:45:00.000-05:00

So the holiday is over, and I'm feeling much better. Still having the pregnancy "have to eat" issue, but it's better than it was last week. I'm now officially 12 weeks, which means, I've passed the first 3 months, and overcame the early miscarriage fright. This is a load off my mind.

Ted is extremely happy about this baby. I've never seen him so...glowing? Is that the right word? We went to a christmas part this past Friday, and just to see him talking about it, you can watch the expression on his face change. He's so at peace with it, and so happy to be adding a new member to our family. I believe while we're both a bit frightenened at the thought of handling 3 instead of 2 (which we've gotten pretty good at mind you), he's definitely more settled on being okay with it than I am. At least at this point. I think that will even out over time.

Got some bad news about Aunt Tara's father this weekend. He passed away on Christmas night. 2005 has definitely not been the best of years. Our thoughts are with you Aunt Tara. I know what you're feeling.

This is also our first Christmas without Pappy. I was doing alright with it until Steven made a comment about going to see him again, and I just couldn't get though it without tears. Glad Ted was there to field the answers. Holidays will be especially hard for the next few years, we all remember how much Pappy loved Christmas with the boys. They miss Pappy too, very much.

Our 11 Week Ultrasound Pic

2005-12-23T13:53:00.000-05:00

11 Weeks, 3 days

2005-12-22T13:46:00.000-05:00

Today we had our second monthly appt, at 11 weeks. Ultrasound picture is on the front page. Everything looks good, placenta is a bit low, but doc said not to worry about that until we get past 20 weeks. If it's still low then, we'll discuss.

Ultrasound picture was very cool. The baby moved around quite a bit and waved at me. That was pretty awesome. Never had an ultrasound done at this stage so looking at the baby at that size was pretty groovy. Doc also said I'm only 9 lbs heavier than before I got pregnant, I don't believe that for a minute, but I'll take it anyway.

We're scheduled for another appt at 16 weeks, which is the last week in January.

Christmas is less than a week away, that should be exciting. The boys are geared up for some Santa presents. I hope they like what he brings them.

Now off to finish some work before taking advantage of the holiday tomorrow. Leaving work early to hang out with Ted. Should be fun. I'll have to find something to wear, which isn't easy these days.

It's Official

2005-12-19T13:47:00.000-05:00

My clothes don't fit anymore.
As of this weekend, I can't comf
ortably get into any of my regular pants. I'm not certain if it's because of the inevitable early weight gain for those with more than one child, or if it's the fact that I'm eating all the time.

So I went on my first excursion to purchase maternity clothes. Target always has awesome deals and fashions, and I came away with a couple of tops from the clearance rack for less then $15. Can't beat it. I think I'll debut one of them tonight at Ted's xmas party. Only a very few of his co-workers know about the baby now, so it will be fun to wear maternity clothes that won't give it away.

I'm also planning a trip for us two in January/February. I'm still deciding on where to go, but I think it will be the last time for quite a while that we get to go away, just the two of us. I'm looking forward to it.

Pregnancy book says the baby is now about 2.5 inches long. I can't believe there's a little person in me that big. Wow, this goes so fast.

My Boys

2005-12-17T13:55:00.000-05:00

Today is Friday

2005-12-16T13:47:00.000-05:00

And I'm ready for the weekend. Why, you ask? Because I can sleep! I miss sleep. I think if sleep were a career option, I'd apply for that job in a heartbeat.

I showed Steven last night how big the baby way (information pulled from a week by week analysis of pregnancy) and at week 10, the baby is approximately the size of his index finger. He really got a kick out of that. He's so very excited. Last week I told him he could help us feed the baby bottles, and his eyes lit up like headlights...REALLY MOM?

Yes son, really. You can also help us change diapers too if you're really that into it.

It will be Christmas in about 9 days, and after that, it's major crunch time. I've got tons of things to do around the house, and I've been using the 1st trimester fatigue thing as my excuse for not doing them yet. I will not have that luxury in a few weeks, so I'd better get moving.

I'm out for now, it's time to find something to eat. ;)

So this is my first entry

2005-12-15T13:48:00.000-05:00

I started the other two journals much earlier than this one, but there's been so much going on.

So here's what we know. I'm pregnant, and due on July 10th, 2006. We will have an ultrasound somewhere around February that will tell us if this baby will be a boy or girl.

We told our familes on Thanksgiving day. We told Steven the night before and he was thrilled! He's very happy about having a little baby. I think he really loves the thought of having someone to depend on him. Christopher is out growing that a bit now.

So anyway, we told him that it was his secret that Mommy had a baby in her belly, and he could tell the families when he wanted to. After dinner at Ted's house, he decided to tell Grandma. I think they were excited, but I mean, it is our 3rd after all...who get's giddy after you' ve done it twice?

So then we went to Nana's house, and Steven told them the same way. He whispered it to Nana, and she told everyone else. Of course, she said that she had suspected it from the beginning. Oh Nana, you know everything before others do, don't you?

So now we play the waiting game. We have lots to do, get the boys into one room, redo Steven's old room into a nursery, lots of stuff to buy, possibly a trade in on Daddy's car, etc. It'll be a busy 7 months.

Overall though, we're excited, Steven is really excited, and I think it will turn out for the best. It will be a hard couple of years adjusting again, but that baby stage is alot of fun. I can't wait to see how Steven reacts to it, since he'll be 5 when the baby is born.

Next appt: December 22nd. Ultrasound.

Reflections (Updated each month)

2005-12-10T13:49:00.000-05:00

Month 7

I've started thinking about the nursery: every day, but haven't started working on it :(

I used to love food! Now I avoid: nothing. I love to eat. Can't stop it if I try.

I never thought pregnancy would make me: so tired. I'm so much more tired than I was with the first two, no kidding.

I can't wait to: have this kid and be un-pregnant.

Month 6

Buying maternity clothes was: an ongoing chore. I don't seem to "fit" into much of anything I wore with the last two.

The biggest change in my body has been: the quick growth of my stomach. It has definitely popped out faster this time.

My favorite change in my body has been: The changes in my taste. There are quite a few things that I love to eat now that I couldn't stand before.

What I never thought would change was: Ted's attitude towards the pregnancy. He's been acting the exact same way he did with the first two, but just recently, he's become so much more attentive and empathetic that usual. I'm not sure why, but I'm not complaining either :) I really love that man.

Month 5

The first time I felt you kick: I was sitting at home watching television.

It felt like: Very light flicking. Nothing much to it really.

I felt: Happy, but a little in disbelief as it was so early.

The strangest food craving I've had is: Texas Pete. I hate the stuff, and now I want it regularly!

Month 4

What I least expected with this pregnancy was: To get so big so fast. I knew it would happen, but it snuck up on me.

The best bit of advice I've received is: To realize that alot of people have more than two kids, and I'll be as good at it with this one, as I have been with the other two.

What has changed the most in my life with this pregnancy is: Not smoking....and then eating everything in sight!

What made me realize that I was really pregnant was: When I couldn't find anything to wear that fit!

My hopes: That it's a girl

My fears: That it's a boy

Month 3

What I'm enjoying the most about my pregnancy so far is: Nothing stands out. T

he strangest advice I've received is: This is the third time for us, no one gives advice anymore.

Names that I've been thinking of: I can't tell you :)

Girl or boy? I think you will be a: Girl

The old wives tales predict: Too early to tell.

At my prenatal visit this month I found out that: I will be going on 12/22

Month 2

The hardest thing for me to give up is: Smoking

This month I told: Everyone - on Thanksgiving day. Well, I didn't tell them, Steven did.

They reacted by: A little shock, but nothing dramatic.

This month at my prenatal visit I learned that: Everything is normal.

New pregnancy symptoms I had this month: Boy, I'm getting fat. And I can't stop eating.

My hopes: That it's a girl.

My fears: Everything else.

Month 1

I started thinking I might be pregnant when: I was about 4 days late. I'm NEVER late unless I'm pregnant.

I found out I was pregnant when I: Took 2 home tests, and then went to the doctor for a blood test.

I felt: Scared

The first person I told was: Ted

They reacted by: Shock and Awe

The first ultrasound was: at 6.5 weeks

At my first prenatal visit I learned that: I was due on July 10th, 2006

My baby will be born: Sometime in July

My hopes: That it's a girl

My fears: Everything