tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62359394108518509192024-03-14T02:47:58.180-07:00Little Mom ThingsI blog about TTC, being a mom, being pregnant, photography, cooking, working full-time, and my life in general.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.comBlogger226125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-82300362988065281062013-09-05T12:01:00.001-07:002013-09-05T12:05:48.401-07:00LONG break..I'm going to try and sort of update the happenings in our household.<br />
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I have no excuses for my long absence here. I am still reading the usual blogs, but I think after a certain amount of time had passed, I didn't really know where to start so I kept putting it off. So much has happened but so much as stayed the same, and that is good. I started feeling super narcissistic like here is my blog where I talk about my lovely kids and my lovely life, blah blah, and I had a hard time struggling with writing about my life without coming across that way even though I like to read about other peoples lives and their blogs. I would get really unsure about myself and would worry about coming across stupid or lame, or not having perfect grammar, and then I'd feel all anxious about it. Breathe. Anyway..<br />
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I have to start somewhere so here goes nothing..<br />
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Carter is turning F-O-U-R this month! He is so incredibly wise, smart, and sometimes I look at him and wonder how the heck this awesome little man from came us, but he did. Also, the terrible threes are totally real and they suck, but things have turned around in the last few months so that's good.<br />
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He started PRE-K this week which seems crazy, and he is so proud to be in the "big kid" class which is kind of adorable because they are all obviously so not "big kids" yet. <br />
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Olivia had her 1st birthday party in June (rainbow inspired for my rainbow baby) and I'm sure I will do a blog post soon about that party. It was a really special day for both of us. But I don't want to have to plan a birthday party ever again, until you know, Carter's 4th this month, ah.<br />
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She is a walking, talking, sassy little woman and that scares me. Do I really have two rambunctious, smart mouthed, sassy children? Yes, yes I do. Couldn't I get one really easy, mellow kid? I guess Olivia is mellow in some ways, but she is so feisty it blows me away. Someone told me that it's due to her having an older brother. She has to fight for what she wants or her big brother will take it from her, so that is what she does. <br />
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I feel like I've turned a leaf with my photography as well, I can't look at photography the same way ever again after some classes I took. I'm constantly critiquing everything I see. I used to see pictures and think "wow, that looks great!" and now I look at the same pictures and think, "omg, there is totally a green cast all over their faces, people paid them to do that?!" Not that I am an expert by any means, I am way too insecure to consider myself one but I think I've come a long way.<br />
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I'm still working full-time, thinking about more babies, and then changing my mind, dealing with a multitude of things, but my kids are healthy, I'm alive, and marriage has never been better so I can't complain.<br />
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More to come...<br />
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Am I actually going to hit publish this time?!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-67421509852421777702012-10-14T17:03:00.001-07:002012-10-14T17:03:46.395-07:00<br /><br /><br /><br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-58454543770580681652012-10-02T21:33:00.001-07:002012-10-02T21:36:35.916-07:003rd Angry Bird-day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Carter turned three on September 24th and we celebrated with an Angry Birds themed BBQ. I told myself that it would be a casual BBQ with our usual family and friends, but I probably went a little overboard. I thought I'd be too overwhelmed to plan a big party, especially because the party fell on the same week that I went back to work and Carter started preschool but somehow I made it all work. I think I secretly love piling too much on my plate just to see if I can handle it all. Yes, I'm crazy. Haven't we figured that out by now?<br />
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Three was a really fun birthday for us because it was the first year that he truly *got* it. He kept talking about his birthday and the party, presents, for weeks beforehand. I think I'm really going to like three (so far so good!). I hope I don't eat those words later..<br />
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Here are some of the pictures of Carter's 3rd Birthday:<br />
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Angry Bird cupcake toppers!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olivia wearing her Angry Birds bow for the party.</td></tr>
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Another successful birthday wrapped! Yes, I get that I am literally planning the same party year after year with a new theme but same idea at the same location. I've got to switch it up next year.<br />
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In other news..<br />
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Life has been moving along for us. I mentioned that Carter started preschool and it is going SO well. Our little guy is now potty trained (which probably deserves a post in itself) and he has had zero accidents in several weeks now. I feel like a huge weight has been lifted. Three short months ago I couldn't find that perfect preschool and I felt as if Carter would be in diapers forever. Literally overnight my dream preschool appeared a mile from my house - I had no idea it was there - and we were able to potty train Carter. Potty training is one of the worst things as a parent I had to go through. Carter is the a very stubborn child and our daycare provider basically told us not to get our hopes up that he would be potty trained by three years-old. Want to know how I did it? I threw away all the diapers in the house, kept a change of clothes with me wherever I went, and asked him a bajillion times if he had to use the potty. The first week was the most disgusting week of my life, I wanted to give up. He absolutely refused to do a #2 in the potty, for over 8 days in a row (and he goes more than once a day usually). YUCK. We refused to put a diaper on him, even at night. We had to be consistent and persistant. By week two, he finally started doing #2 in the potty, and that was it. He was trained just in time for preschool! It feels like ages ago that I was changing his diaper, and it was only six weeks ago. He is such a big boy now with his big boy underpants. So glad that is over!<br />
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He loves his preschool, and is already learning so much. I'm kind of in awe that our little baby boy is now this full blown little man. I don't even know how it happened.<br />
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Livy Bean is still adjusting to my going back to work, but I think we finally found our groove here. She is still quite the angel baby for me and I keep asking myself when this whole two kid thing is going to get hard (okay that was a lie - it's really flipping hard but I love it).<br />
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I'm going to write a post about going to work this week if I can find the time.<br />
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I better run now because Carter is getting into something he shouldn't and Andy needs some help - nighty night!<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-47603364837381451862012-09-12T19:31:00.002-07:002012-10-02T21:37:51.655-07:00Olivia is THREE months-old<br />
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My baby girl is three months old!<br />
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Time has flown by way too fast. Three months old means it's time for Mama to go back to work! This is officially my last week of maternity leave. I go back on Tuesday, September 18th after having close to 16 weeks off total (my last day of work was June 1st). I had almost two weeks off prior to having Olivia, eight weeks of maternity leave, and six weeks of Paid Family Leave. <br />
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It's very bittersweet. I'm so attached to Olivia and she to me, that I can't imagine not being with her all day long but I know we need to get this show on the road so to speak. We need to get into our new routines as a family. Carter is also starting preschool the same day I go back to work and I'm anxious to see how life settles. I'm nervous, sad, excited, stressed, but overall I am at peace with it. Life goes on, and I really do love my work but I know the adjustment period will be hard.<br />
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My mom will watch Olivia on Mondays and Wednesdays at her house, and we're paying a friend to watch her on Tuesdays and Fridays at our house. I plan on keeping Olivia with me on Thursdays at first. I'll bring her in the office for a few hours, and my husband (we work together) will cover for me the remainder of the day. I'll nurse Olivia on my lunch break and pump in between.<br />
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I'm planning on spending the next 5 days snuggling my little girl as much as possible. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-44915637350809875222012-09-06T19:15:00.000-07:002012-10-02T21:37:01.864-07:00A Boy.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My tiny peanut; we nicknamed you "monkey" during my pregnancy.</div>
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And you truly are a peanut, always a little bit smaller than others your age. To me, you are perfect.</div>
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I look back on these pictures of you so new, and I can't believe how this little monkey turned into my feisty smarty-pants toddler who wears big boy underwear and sometimes calls me Michelle.</div>
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Your father and I had no clue what we were doing, but we jumped in and we figured it out together. </div>
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We are still figuring it out together.</div>
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You taught me patience, and you've tested my patience. All in good ways.</div>
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You are hilarious and spunky, and also kind-hearted and giving.</div>
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You love to share (food, sometimes toys) and give lots of hugs and kisses.</div>
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You LOVE your Papa and Grammie, so much. </div>
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When we visit them, you like to curl up next to your Papa next to his spot on the couch and play on the iPad with him while you share peanuts. </div>
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Grammie loves to teach you all about dogs and birdies, and together you prance around the backyard.</div>
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The only cartoon you watch these days is Curious George. </div>
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Over and over again. You, little man, are our Curious George.</div>
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You remind me a lot of me. A LOT. You love to give and care for others. </div>
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And you are also sensitive and emotional, and stubborn. Just like me.</div>
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You are getting SO big. You are turning 3 and starting preschool this month.</div>
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I can't believe how much time has passed, but I also can't remember my life before you were in it.</div>
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I wanted to take a moment and remember you when you were still my teeny little baby, just as your sister is now. </div>
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No matter how big you get, you'll always be my little peanut head. </div>
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I love you Monkey. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aH8RUAYh5CA/UElW8HKhp8I/AAAAAAAAY9k/NHTOK7cuIBk/s1600/IMG_6067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aH8RUAYh5CA/UElW8HKhp8I/AAAAAAAAY9k/NHTOK7cuIBk/s640/IMG_6067.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love our little family.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-76152715104688657322012-08-30T09:14:00.000-07:002012-08-30T09:14:44.022-07:00iPhone Photo Dump<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is a whole mess of pictures from the past two months. I've taken over 1000 pictures on just my iPhone alone since O was born. Holy moly.</div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-85778707986447969812012-08-28T11:40:00.001-07:002012-10-02T21:38:08.855-07:00Olivia is TWO months old!<br />
Olivia turned two months old on August 11th! Sorry for such a late post, I've been trying to soak in every free moment of maternity leave I have left (which ends September 18th). Plus, I'm home with both kids most days, except for Tuesdays and Thursdays when Carter goes to daycare, so it's almost impossible to blog when I have both kids. Carter is a handful and has SO MUCH energy that entertaining him is a constant job, oh and so is that whole newborn thing too. I've been pretty busy, but also so happy. I feel so much gratitude for having Olivia here that I'm overwhelmed by it all sometimes. Okay, off topic. On to Olivia's two month post...<br />
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Her two month check-up stats:</div>
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Weight: 12.9 pounds, 90% percentile</div>
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Height: 23 inches, 90% percentile</div>
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She is one big chub-a-lub, that's for sure! Her weight is proportionate to her height so she's just a big girl all over! Carter was always on the smaller side (10-15% percentile) so Olivia and Carter are definitely polar opposites in every sense. I read that exclusively breastfed babies tend to grow faster than formula fed babies for the first three months and then they level out, so we'll see if that holds true for us. </div>
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Olivia is one smiley girl! She smiles constantly, even when her big bro pokes her and tugs on her ears (in a loving way). Carter adores her, but still doesn't understand how gentle he needs to be. He can't wait until she can start playing toys with him, he loves playing with other kids, and frankly, I get tired of playing blocks with him all day long so I can't wait either! Carter is already a protective big brother. The first thing he says in the morning when he walks into our room is "Where's my sister? I love my sister," and then he'll climb up in bed with us and give her a huuuge hug and a kiss. It's all very sweet, but I still wouldn't trust him alone with her, haha.<br />
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We're all still sleeping really well, which is so funny because it was the ONE thing that Andy was so worried about when I was pregnant. He so terrified to have a newborn again and not be able to sleep, ever, as it was when we had Carter. And I haven't had one single day this time where I felt like a walking zombie. I'm sure a lot of it has to do with this being our second, and also because she is just really good.<br />
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We are still co-sleeping and loving it. We go to bed between 8:30pm - 9:30pm every night, and she usually falls asleep for the night between 9-10pm. She usually wakes around 3am for a quick feed and that is it. Occassionally she wakes a 2nd time around 6am, but she hasn't lately. I'm usually up for the day around 7ish, and I'll feed her and then pump. If she's still asleep I'll pump first and then I'll feed her when she wakes up. I get about 5 ounces every morning (total), and I freeze it for later. I didn't pump one day last week and oh man, I was so engorged all day long. Bad idea!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bag on the left is full of milk I pumped in July, and before I realized I should be freezing the bags flat for easier storage. Duh. </td></tr>
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I think I have a decent freezer stash so far. She takes a botle whenever I leave her with Andy for a few hours which is usually once or twice a week. I have never seen her take a bottle because I've never been around for it, but he said she takes it really well. We use the Tommee Tippee bottles and after trying virtually every bottle in existence with Carter these by far are our favorite. I also have a small freezer stash at my parents house with a few bottles because we spend so much time there. I love that I can leave at a moments notice, and not have to worry about her having enough milk. This was part of the reason we supplemented with Carter. I only pumped when I was working (enough for the next day), never built up a freezer stash, and was super anxious about nursing in public so he was given formula when I left the house but we nursed all other times. I loved breastfeeding the first time around so I'm glad I am able to do it more this time. I don't know how long I'll be able to do it when I go back to work, but I'm hoping to get to 6 months and then I'll reassess the situation, and possibly set a second goal if we are all happy and comfortable with our routine.<br />
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This might sound obnoxious, but I'm obsessed with my daughter. Obsessed. She is this happy little bug most of time and I can't get enough of her. She coos at me and tries to talk to me all the time! I love the big girl smiles she gives me when I look at her. She is a mama's girl already, that is for sure, but I know in time she will most definitely be a daddy's girl.<br />
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This adorable little guy is starting preschool when I go back to work! It's an actual school with a class room and teachers and everything, he's becoming such a big boy. I'm so excited for his "first day of school" and you can be sure I will take a ton of pictures to document it. I'm a little nervous about how he will behave at school with his teachers and other kids, but he does well in daycare so I hope he will be okay. I'm really looking forward to this next step in his development. He is a huge talker and knows SO much already that sometimes I'm surprised by him. This kid loves to learn, I know he will love school!<br />
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I will leave you with some purty pictures I took of my kids yesterday at the park. </div>
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I've been spending time practicing with photoshop during my leave and I took an online class last week to further my editing skillz. Can you tell?<br />
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I have re-edited some of my pictures for practice. Here is a picture I re-edited from Amy's maternity shoot. The picture on the left is my original edit, the right is the new edit. I've been editing pictures for fun in my free time lately, I'm weird.<br />
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I think that's a good update for today! Now I'm off to snuggle my little one while I can.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-27809681545814567262012-08-04T16:24:00.004-07:002012-10-02T21:37:28.614-07:00Life with 2I don't remember what it's like not to have kids so going from one to two isn't too much harder. I don't remember having the freedom to do whatever I want, so throwing a 2nd kid in the mix just made me a little bit busier, but overall we're managing (I mean, we have to, right?).<br />
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Olivia is starting to stay awake for longer periods of time and she is no longer as easy going as she was after she was born. She is quite demanding sometimes, and when she isn't sleeping, she's either eating or insisting I hold and bounce her. She really hates the mornings when I have to be somewhere and need to get myself and Carter ready because that means I have to set her down. She cries, but it's usually just a whiny cry and rarely does she get to that ugly screaming cry so I can handle it. Babies fuss and cry, period. If they are fed, changed, comfy and still crying - sometimes you have to just deal with it.<br />
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Carter adores his sister, but he still doesn't understand his boundaries. He likes to squish her face, squeeze her and try and pick her up. He constantly tells me how much he loves her, which is cute, but I wish he would just love her two feet away. Ha.<br />
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I have successfully handled two grocery store trips with both kids. I strap Olivia to my chest in her carrier, and put Carter in the cart. Going anywhere with the kids takes a lot of prep. In order for me to go anywhere I have to mentally run through what's about to happen so that things go smoothly. Do other people do this? If I don't prepare mentally, there is a good chance I'll have an anxiety attack because I'll be unprepared. For example, If I'm going to the store with both of them, I'll think ahead to where I will park (closest to a cart), and the steps I will take to get them out of the car. (Strap Ergo carrier on first, put Olivia in carrier, unbuckle Carter, hold his hand, get purse, lock car, put Carter in cart, etc etc). I have to do this on the way out as well and plan how I will get both of them in the car (turn on car first so I don't overheat kids, Olivia first, then Carter, then groceries). And as well for when I get home (bring Olivia in with her car seat, bring Carter in and give him something to do, unload groceries, etc etc). Call me crazy, but this is seriously the only way I can handle anything with both of them without having a major meltdown. I guess I do this in most areas of my life, maybe everyone does.<br />
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SLEEP. Olivia is still a good sleeper even if she is needy during the day, she still sleeps a good 3-5 hours at a time, nurses, and goes right back to sleep. It's heavenly. We are co-sleeping. I tried to get her in the bassinet, but I realized I want her close to me more than I want my bed to myself. All three of us sleep beautifully this way so we'll keep at it for a little while.<br />
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More so then ever, I need my adult time. If I don't get some time out of the house with friends or sans kids at least once a week, it won't be pretty. I sort of shut myself in after having Carter and I enjoyed it, but this time around, I need to get out of the house. I'm only good for a few hours before my boobs start aching and I miss my little O, but it's great to feel human for a few hours over dinner or drinks with a friend or two.<br />
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Carter has been..interesting lately. An old friend told me about a year ago that the "terrible twos" were nothing and I should be worried about the "terrible threes" and I'm starting to think he's right. Carter is this insane ball of energy at all times and has been pushing our patience lately. We have our good days and bad days, but I think we're just dealing with typical boy behavior...I hope.<br />
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Well, I'm off to get ready for some mommy time - yay! Say a prayer for my husband.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-83694020486192154852012-07-12T21:19:00.000-07:002012-10-02T21:37:38.244-07:00Olivia is ONE month old<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Whew, what a month! It feels as if Olivia has been a part of our lives forever, but it also feels like she was just born. I absolutely adore her, but really, what mom would say otherwise?</div>
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Here is a little bit of of what our lives have been like with the little miss O around..</div>
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The first month has been fairly easy for us. I'm not sure if it's because Olivia is a generally mellow little gal, or if it's because we've done this before so we know what to expect. We were prepared to have another baby like Carter, but instead we were pleasantly surprised by Olivia's laid back demeanor.</div>
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Olivia is waking up two to three times a night. She usually sleeps from 10-11pm until around 2:30am, and then again until 5-6am-ish, and then we'll fall back asleep until around 7:30-8am. I really should be taking advantage of the ability to sleep in when I can, but I'm not. I spend the majority of the morning in bed with Olivia watching the news, nursing, and checking up on the world via my iPhone.<br />
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Speaking of sleep, she was doing well in her bassinet for at first, but I started co-sleeping about a week ago for the benefits (and for me!) and we are so much happier. I don't play to co-sleep very long this time, definitely not as long as we did with Carter, but for now it's best for us. She sleeps so much better right next to me, wakes less, and nursing is much more convenient.<br />
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We are exclusively breastfeeding and so far it's going really well. I'm trying to pump to build up a stash, but I'm not doing it nearly enough. Olivia weight 7 pounds 7 ounces at her last doctors appt (at 5 days old) and I'm guessing she is between 9-10 pounds now. She is definitely growing at a rapid pace and her newborn clothes are starting to get a little bit tight. </div>
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Olivia rarely cries but fusses often. When she's awake she expects to be held or entertained as much as possible. It's really difficult when I need to get Carter changed, dressed or bathed and Olivia wants to nurse or be held. I usually lay her in her play gym and let her cry while I get myself or Carter ready, as painful as it is. I'm only one person and there is only so much I can do. I take it one day at a time and do the best I possibly can. There are moments where I feel a little nuts and wish for some time to myself, but I've been able to stay calm for the most part and work through it.<br />
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We decided to keep Carter in daycare on Tuesdays and Thursdays so I can spend those days bonding with my little girl, and he can keep up with his friends at daycare. I run most of my errands, or do lunches with friends on the days I have Olivia only. I'm not ready yet to venture into the world alone with both kids, except for going to my moms or the park, but I'm sure it will happen soon. I'm scared!<br />
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Olivia has started smiling at me when I talk to her and it is so freaking adorable. She also tries to talk to me when I'm talking to her. She purses her likes and says "coo." Eeek, I love her so much!<br />
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Carter adores her and constantly tries to smother her with kisses and hugs every single day. I haven't seen any jealously on his behalf yet, except for when he gets jealous that he can't hold Olivia as much as I do, haha.<br />
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I'm amazed I've been able to type this much, and my husband is starting to get seriously annoyed so I'm off to rescue him. Nighty night!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-31231882077599566452012-07-05T19:02:00.001-07:002012-10-02T21:38:27.260-07:00Independence Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We spent the fourth like we do for most major holidays - at my parents house. I helped cook and we had about 15ish people sitting around eating and drinking all day. I have to admit I was a little bummed we weren't in Cape Cod like we usually are for the fourth, but we still had a nice day with our friends and family.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grammie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 weeks postpartum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QSqRVc4dzXE/T_ZGrxdTFWI/AAAAAAAACjk/F0HYPoSowjo/s1600/180230_4238114710820_1628780387_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QSqRVc4dzXE/T_ZGrxdTFWI/AAAAAAAACjk/F0HYPoSowjo/s320/180230_4238114710820_1628780387_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fam about to watch the fireworks</td></tr>
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Hope you all had a nice holiday!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-77944350160202372942012-06-30T12:08:00.000-07:002012-10-02T21:38:38.793-07:00Newborn Photo Shoot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I took the pictures myself when Olivia was about 8 days new. Her umbilical cord stump just fell off (eww) so I'll probably take a few more pictures sometime next week. Photography is always a work in progress for me, as with Photoshop, but I think I can tell a big difference over pictures I took just a year ago. I have a feeling I'll be taking tons of pictures this summer. <br />
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Here are the rest of my faves from our shoot:<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="border: 0px currentColor !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-17493418551351658992012-06-28T12:53:00.002-07:002012-10-02T21:39:21.525-07:00The Birth of Olivia Lenora<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You guys, she's amazing. I'm kind of in awe of her, and I could lay around all day just staring at this precious baby girl. <br />
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I still can't believe she's here and healthy. I'm still overwhelmed by this. The entire pregnancy I felt like I had a dark cloud over my head and couldn't actually believe that it was going to result in a healthy baby. A girl baby. A GEMINI baby. A baby that looks just like me. But it did. And she does. I would walk around her nursery and think about what I was going to do with all of her things if or when something happened. If I wouldn't feel her kick for an hour or so I would instantly start thinking the worst. It was awful, and I couldn't control my thoughts or feelings about this.<br />
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Also, she's SO FREAKIN easy! I didn't know babies like this existed, or maybe I didn't realize just how difficult Carter was until I had Olivia. I'm hoping to blog about this later. They are so different! There are so many posts I want to write this summer, but for now I'm going to share with you Olivia's birth story.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olivia and I the day after she was born</td></tr>
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As I've mentioned before, we decided on a repeat c-section rather than try for a vbac. I really wanted to have a vbac, but the more I thought about my first birth experience and emergency c-section, the more I realized I was NOT interested in trying for a vbac. My overall c-section experience the first time around wasn't really bad at all. In fact, I'd say it was a pretty good experience. I've come to terms with the fact that I may not ever experience a vaginal birth, and I am totally okay with this. This doesn't make my mommy card any less valid, and my kids are both healthy and happy. I really give two shits about how they got here. After talking to my husband at length about the topic, we decided to go for the planned c- section. I'm really happy with our decision and have no regrets about it, so far.<br />
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I went in at 8am on June 11th for what was supposed to be a 10 am c-section, only to find out that my doctors office had rescheduled me for 12:30 and someone failed to let me know. I love my doctor's office and knew two hours of waiting wasn't a huge deal so we decided to stay and wait rather than drive home just to sit on the couch and think about all the foods I couldn't eat (I had to fast) only to drive back an hour later. Noon rolled around and our nurse came in with more bad news. A woman expecting twins came in after her water had broken and was 3 cm's dilated so they needed to bump our c-section for hers. What can you do? We had to wait another 2 1/2 hours, but the time passed pretty quickly, and I was all that more eager to get the show on the road.<br />
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Nerves eventually started to settle in and all kinds of thoughts started to race through my mind. I begun second guessing my decision as the reality was hitting that I was about to have major surgery, and I started to worry about all of the "what ifs." It was nice going into it with a clear head (and let's be honest, a face full of make-up) but it also made my anxiety level go up a notch because I was more aware of what was about to happen, and had a lot more time to process it all.<br />
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Around 2:30 pm, it was go time. I chose to have one of my very best friends (Roxanne) in the room to photograph the birth for us, and she's also really into gross gory things and wanted to watch. Truth. Roxanne and Andy stayed behind in the room and put their scrubs on while I made the walk to the O.R. to start the surgery prep. Funny story, right before I left, the doctor made sure to tell Andy and Roxanne to leave their clothes on under their scrubs. Apparently, someone once removed all of their clothing before putting on the scrubs. We were in hysterics picturing a dad-to-be walking down the hallway nakie in see through scrubs. They use clear white scrubs there! Seriously.<br />
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The hardest part of the experience was getting the spinal. It was painful going in, and feeling my legs go completely numb in seconds weirded me out. I remember trying to wiggle my toes with all my might and it was such a freaky feeling not being able to. I started to get really emotional while being prepped and I knew once my husband came in, I was going to lose it, and I did. As soon as I saw him, I couldn't control myself, but he did his best to calm me down.<br />
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I don't remember much after that, it went by pretty quickly and within minutes she was born. She cried before we even realized she was out, and within minutes she was all mine.<br />
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It took about 45 minutes to get me stitched up, and into my recovery room. I was able to nurse Olivia within an hour of her being born, and she latched immediately.<br />
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Recovery wise, I'm healing but still dealing with some pain. I have my good days and bad days, but for the most part I'm feeling great.<br />
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Everything was such a whirlwind the first time around but this time I was able to stop and savor every minute of our birth experience (even the c-section!) and our hospital stay.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter holding his baby sis for the very first time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My "you just got cut open" present</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My amazing OB</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Impromptu hospital photo shoot</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Napping in my hospital bed. I swear they just did this!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going home outfit</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way home!</td></tr>
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I feel so much more confident this time around in every aspect. Being a mom of two is not that bad (for us). Going from none to one was really hard. Going from one to two? Didn't change much. We had our difficult baby first. Carter was colicky and didn't sleep more than 45 minutes at a time for the first few months. It was beyond exhausting. Yes, I'm up every 2-3 hours, but Olivia is a dream compared to Carter. More on this later!<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-44219997995559029202012-06-11T21:13:00.001-07:002012-10-02T21:39:09.160-07:00Proudly introducing...Olivia Lenora<br />
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<center>
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Born at 3:23pm, June 11, 2012<br />
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Weighing in at 8 pounds, 4 ounces. 20 inches long.<br />
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More details to follow.<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-61542968602894012512012-06-10T16:28:00.000-07:002012-10-03T13:08:52.800-07:0039 Weeks (TOMORROW IS THE DAY!)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Please excuse this awful picture. I didn't have energy to make myself look decent today.</td></tr>
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<br />
Well folks, this is it. I've made it to 39 weeks and tomorrow I go for in my repeat c-section so this will be short.<br />
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I'm a bundle of nerves right now, and it hasn't quite hit me that in 24 hours I should be in my hospital room snuggling my little girl.<br />
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It has been quite a week with two scary non-stress tests at the hospital, and I've been on edge ever since.<br />
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I'm so uncomfortable in my own skin, I don't think I could have made it any longer as I'm sure any pregnant woman would say right before delivering.<br />
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I had a moment earlier today while driving around with Carter. I actually could see myself holding Olivia and taking her home (something that has been hard for me to imagine due to my fears this entire pregnancy) and I broke down into that really ugly cry. I think I freaked Carter out a little and had to reassure him that I was only crying happy tears.<br />
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Please send prayers and positive thoughts for Olivia's safe and healthy arrival!<br />
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Hopefully I'll get a chance to update you all from the hospital.<br />
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O M G.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-70701206609949353912012-05-25T10:22:00.001-07:002012-05-25T10:22:58.198-07:0037 weeks: Full Term, Baby!<br />
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I'm in disbelief I made it this far, and that our little girl can safely join us at any time! Not that I hope she comes early, as uncomfortable as I am. I would prefer no surprises and that she'll join us on her scheduled date of June 11. I'd really like to be mentally and physically prepared (showered, bags packed, hair done, camera charged, etc), and I'm not quite there. Although, I've always thought it would be fun to experience my water breaking on it's own and rushing to the hospital like they do in the movies..haha.<br />
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Physically I'm barely holding up. I'm pretty sure she's dropped. I'm having so much pressure and pain very low, that after sitting at my desk for an hour or two, I can barely walk. Literally. I have to stand up and hold the underside of my belly for a good 2-3 minutes and wait for the sharp pains to subside, and then I can attempt to walk. Ouch.<br />
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And can we talk about heartburn? What is this evil thing? I escaped heartburn altogether my first pregnancy, and didn't start experiencing it until a month or two ago. Now I wake up in the middle of the night with the most excruciating heartburn. I've been keeping a bottle of Tums next to the toilet since I'm up to pee so much and I it's been helping a little.<br />
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I had one or two days of swelling (my feet were a little swollen) but that subsided. I'm still lucky enough to be wearing my wedding rings although today they seem to be a bit tight. I don't know how I escaped that so I'm pretty happy, but I remember getting incredibly swollen after my c-section last time from the IV fluids so I should probably take my jewelry off now while I still can. I also had my blood pressure creep up on me at the end of Carter's pregnancy, and this time it's way low. Like just above too low, low. I am overweight and 9 months pregnant and I have the blood pressure of an athlete. Go figure.<br />
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I also have no idea how I managed to gain only 12 pounds. Seriously. I actually lost a pound at my last appointment, but the baby is growing at a stellar rate so I couldn't be happier. I wish I felt as good as all of this sounds, but I still feel like my body is broken and I'm unable to do very basic things. Getting up out of bed at night to pee is the worst. I have no stomach muscles, and it takes everything I've got to push myself up and off the bed, and then I experience sharp stabbing pains with every step I take. I feel like, at any moment, the baby, placenta and all, will just drop right out of me.<br />
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I know I will miss every second of this in another month or so and who knows when or if I'll get to be pregnant again so I'm trying to savor every last day as much as I want to meet her already.<br />
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My official last day of work is June 6th! I'm working right up until I have her minus two days. I thought I owed myself at least two days to square things away at home, but knowing me, I'll probably come into the office just because I won't know what to do with myself. I'm constantly busy, and complaining about it, but the minute I have a moment to myself, I have to fill it with something. Before Carter was born I would have loved some free-time, but now I'm pretty content with just going, going, going all the time. Especially at 9 months pregnant, I feel like if I sit still, I'll just end up watching the clock tick waiting for this baby to be born. I wish I could physically accomplish what my mind wants it to.<br />
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Sorry for the ramble of emotions, but that's all I got! In a little over two weeks our baby girl will be here and this will all be a distant memory. Please say a prayer for a safe delivery and a healthy baby girl. It's all I care about.<br />
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<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-66964234677979080792012-05-16T08:00:00.000-07:002012-05-16T08:00:09.180-07:00Olivia's Nursery!We're done! Sort of. I still feel like I'm not finished, but I must be crazy, right?<br />
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I now present to you our finished(ish) nursery!<br />
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9 days until full-term, 26 days to go!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-72882519115420881322012-05-14T09:52:00.000-07:002012-05-14T09:52:08.999-07:00Maternity Pictures!Last weekend my friend Lauren from <a href="http://www.laurenwestphotography.com/">Lauren West Photography</a> took my maternity pictures! The location was breathtaking, and I'm so happy with the way they turned out.<br />
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Head on over to Lauren's <a href="http://www.laurenwestphotography.com/2012/michelle-andy-carter-waiting-for-olivia/">blog</a> to check out some of the favorites of the day: <a href="http://www.laurenwestphotography.com/2012/michelle-andy-carter-waiting-for-olivia/">Michelle, Andy, Carter: Waiting for Olivia!</a> I'm in love and can't wait to order prints to frame around our house.<br />
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Thank you Lauren for an amazing shoot!<br />
<br />Xo,<br />
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P.S.<br />
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28 days to go!!!<br /><br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-30600312815558798852012-05-02T16:57:00.002-07:002012-05-02T16:57:59.356-07:0033 Weeks<br />
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Man. I had such high hopes at the beginning of this pregnancy of blogging my progress every single week with cute belly photos, and I realize that I deserve a big fat fail for that one. I haven't really taken one decent photo of myself (besides my iPhone pictures), but my lovely, amazing and talented friend Lauren from <a href="http://www.laurenwestphotography.com/">Lauren West Photography</a> will be taking maternity pictures of me this Saturday. I've never had "professional" photos taken before so I'm really excited to document this time in my life, and get some cute family pictures that I can frame.<br />
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These last few weeks are so freakin exciting and overwhelming that I might actually do a post for each week because it's all my mind thinks about these days. When your stomach is the size of a bowling ball, and you're in pain every time you move, it's kind of hard to think about anything else but. I feel like I have so MUCH work to do to get caught up and prepped for my maternity leave, but I have no motivation to work on it. Miraculously, my sales are doing really well (I'm a commission based insurance agent) even with all the added distractions so that is good. I'm trying not to worry too much about it because I know I'll never get this time in my life back again to spend with my babies.<br />
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Speaking of maternity leave, I plan on taking my full 12 weeks this time. Yes, TWELVE. Considering I only took 6 weeks off for Carter, this will be huge for me. We have a scheduled repeat c-section set for Monday, June 11th, and I'm hoping to work right up until June 8th (Friday). I'm cray, but let me live in my dream world where this will be possible. I'm scheduled to return to work on September 3rd. We plan on keeping Carter in daycare until July 1st so I'll have a good three weeks adjusting to the new baby, and getting some one on one time in with her. After July 1st, my life will change drastically. It will just be ME, home alone, with a newborn and a two year-old. I'm terrified. I'm hoping for the best, but expecting the worst. I'm excited about this time, but naturally nervous. I know I'll survive, but it's going to be really hard.<br />
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At 33 weeks, 5 days, I have a little over 5 weeks until my c-section, and a little over 3 weeks until full-term. Since months have been flying by in what feels like days, I know she'll be here before I know it and this will all be a distant memory so I'm trying to savor it. Who knows if and when I'll be pregnant again, and considering our house isn't big enough, it will probably be a long time.<br />
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I've had some pre-term labor scares with contractions, but I don't think they're anything but Braxton Hicks so I'm not too worried. I've been checked twice, and so far they haven't made any progress. My doctor thinks everything I'm feeling and experiencing is typical for a 2nd pregnancy. I was prescribed Procardia to stop contractions but due to the side effects I'm weary of taking it. If I feel like I absolutely have to, I will.<br />
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I've officially gained 12 pounds this pregnancy, but been asked if I'm having twins twice now. I don't think I'm THAT huge, and I'm baffled why anyone would make a comment on a pregnant woman's size at all. But whatev's, I don't care too much.<br />
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34 weeks on Friday and will hopefully have the nursery finished very soon. Things are happenin people!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-6451273993405964982012-04-24T19:43:00.002-07:002012-04-24T19:43:37.863-07:00Baby Showered!This past Sunday my mom threw me a lovely baby shower. And by threw, I mean let me plan and then decide to try and change all my plans hours before (that's how she rolls).<br />
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It turned out to be the most wonderful day, and I still am walking around on a little high from all the love we received.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even baby Liam came (3 weeks old!)</td></tr>
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I have a maternity shoot scheduled for May (and I'm so excited about it), and the nursery to finish up. I'm most anxious about getting my work squared away at the office, but I know everything will work out (because it has to, right?).<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-70281738799386916532012-04-11T08:59:00.002-07:002012-04-11T08:59:35.969-07:0030 Weeks!I made it to 30 weeks! 30 weeks sounds really pregnant to me and I can't believe in as little as 7 weeks our baby girl could be here, full-term. I thought I would jot down a bit about how I'm feeling at 30 weeks so I don't forget..<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crappy iPhone picture for your viewing pleasure.</td></tr>
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<b>Far Along: </b>30 Weeks 4 Days<br />
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<b>Weight Gain: </b>About 10 pounds total, the doctor is very pleased given my starting weight. And I didn't have to give up my sweets (GD test passed!)<br />
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<b>Gender: </b>Baby is all girl as confirmed by at least 6 ultrasounds, and counting. I like how they must tell me the gender at every ultrasound appointment, just to make sure.<br />
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<b>Labor Signs: </b>I've been feeling a TON of pressure, lower back pain, cramping and round ligament pain the past few weeks. A lot of which have to do with sitting at my desk all day long because I notice I'm not feeling as much pain / pressure on the weekends. I don't think this means anything, but I do know those are signs of early labor so my doctor and I are keeping watch of everything. I'm getting mandatory ultrasounds every two weeks to check my cervical length, fluid and measure the baby. I'm fine with the added precautions but I don't expect her to come earlier than scheduled.<br />
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<b>Nursery: </b>We've painted and have a crib, dresser, chair and some art ready to go. I'm itching to get the foundation down and then figure out what we still need after my baby shower on April 22nd.<br />
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<b>Birth:</b> Well, I went ahead and scheduled a repeat c-section for June 11th (4 days shy of my due date), and exactly two calendar months from today. I still haven't completely ruled out a VBAC but it's doubtful. Given the reasons why I had a c-section before, I'm not an excellent VBAC candidate. My doctor won't let me wait to go into labor naturally after June 11th, and obviously another induction is just not an option. If by chance I go into labor on my own before June 11th and I'm progressing quickly without medical intervention or complications, will definitely try for a VBAC. I do love the idea of going to the hospital nicely showered, made-up and rested, and then having our baby girl within minutes, but I don't like the idea of having had TWO c-sections and what that will do to my future ability to have children.<br />
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<b>Appointments: </b>I'm going every two-weeks right now, and I'm getting fancy ultrasounds each time. I know I'm really lucky because I remember only getting two fancy (high quality) ultrasounds with Carter my entire pregnancy. They measure Olivia top to bottom every two weeks to make sure she is progressing on target. You know how I was worried in the very beginning that she was measuring 4 days behind? Well, I went in for my usual appointment about a month ago and she was measuring two weeks AHEAD. Out of nowhere. She had been consistently measured about 2-4 days behind (I ovulated a few days later than day 14 of my cycle, and I knew that), but having her jump TWO WEEKS ahead was a little scary. Specifically her head and belly were measuring of a 31 weeker and I was 29 weeks. That put her at the 90th percentile for her gestational age. Usually babies measuring in the 90th percentile are concerning for doctors (and can be a sign of gestational diabetes among other things). But I went in two weeks later and they went to check out her size, and she was down to the 78th percentile. Still a big girl by all means (I cringe) but not in a scary / concerning way. With Carter, he measured exact my entire pregnancy. He was always right in the 50% percentile for his size and measured to the day of my gestational age. I think I have one more bi weekly appointment and then I start going every week.<br />
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As for how I'm feeling, I'm a combination of terrified, anxious and so freakin excited. In just about 6 weeks I'll have a full-term baby. I really can't wait to meet her, but I have so much at work to catch up on and prepare for my three month absence that until that is squared away, I won't be able to relax. I'm worried she'll come before I'm finished here, but I know if that happens everything will find a way of working out just as it always does.<br />
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okaythatisall!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-89021358815701456492012-04-09T13:47:00.003-07:002012-04-09T13:47:38.128-07:00Easter Our Easter was very low-key this year as my parents (and sister and brother) are all in Jamaica on a breathtaking tropical get-a-away. It was actually nice to follow some of our Easter traditions with my little trio. I'm also house-sitting for my parents but thankfully the Easter bunny found us and we had a really enjoyable Easter!<br />
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It was nice to be able to use the "Easter bunny isn't going to come if you don't do such and such" as a bribe to get Carter to pick up his toys and behave all weekend. Don't all parents do that? Bribery is my favorite parenting tool.<br />
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<br />After Carter opened his Easter basket, we all got ready in our Easter best and headed to brunch at a fancy country club (my parents and I go here every year for Easter brunch and my mom was nice enough to book us a reservation - already paid for - so we could continue the tradition). They also have an Easter egg hunt and petting zoo for the kids so Carter was psyched all morning. I mentioned the petting zoo part to him while we were getting ready and then next thing I know Carter wouldn't stop talking about how excited he was to go to the zoo. He wanted to see lions and jaguars (I don't know where he comes up with this stuff) and I kept trying to correct him that we weren't going to the zoo, but it was too late.<br />
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It ended up being a much smaller petting zoo than normal with a few bunnies, chickens, a goat and two lambs, but he still loved it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best picture of the day. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">30 weeks!</td></tr>
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<br />Later on we took my parents dogs to the dog park, and I cooked an Easter feast. I missed my family but it was also nice to spend the holiday with my little family.<br />
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By the way, all weekend Carter would not stop using the phrase "Oh my God." I guess there are worse phrases he could be repeating right now..<br />
<br />Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-26060670081789376872012-04-07T20:09:00.004-07:002012-04-07T20:09:35.053-07:00Big Boy RoomI've officially finished Carter's big boy room. I'm happy with the way it turned out for the most part, and now I get to focus all of my energy on Olivia's nursery! Here are some pictures of the finished result (I actually broke out the DSLR for these; I know shocking).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bedding and head board are from Amazon.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Letters from Carter's nursery (hand painted by me). Desk from Amazon. Toy box and shoe shelf from Target.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shelf from Target.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Wallfry?ref=ss_profile">Wallfry</a> prints.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andy's mini office is still in the room. We sectioned it off with these dividers from Amazon.</td></tr>
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He actually sleeps in here every single night and loves his room. Although, we've been house sitting this week and I'm a tad nervous because Carter has been sleeping with us because there isn't a convenient space for him to sleep him alone. I'm worried he'll get used to co-sleeping again and we'll have an adjustment problem when we go back home. We will see.<br />
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Happy Easter Weekend everyone!Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-77243461299336753452012-04-04T10:10:00.001-07:002012-04-04T10:14:08.572-07:00A new baby!One of my closest friends (<a href="http://dandelionpaperweight.com/">Amy</a>) had her baby boy last Friday! He is such a doll and I am so in love with him. Being at the hospital on Friday and getting caught up in the all the excitement of a new baby brought back so many memories of Carter's birth. I loved being on the other side of the equation; watching the new mom and dad in the hospital and visiting a teensy tiny little newborn that didn't belong to me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Liam and I (my friend Amy's new little boy!).</td></tr>
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I didn't really have any friends who had children when Carter was born. I was the first one of my close group of girlfriends to have a child and I sort of just winged it. I probably didn't research things as much as I should have, and I didn't know that an entire world of amazing baby products existed outside of Babies-R-Us. I didn't have advice from friends or family, and I didn't know what to expect (as much as I thought I did).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't he amazing?</td></tr>
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Having been through it before, the loss, the TTC process - I find the whole birth experience so overwhelming and thrilling at the same time when I never would have before (as much). I would have been like "oh, here's your new baby, he's really cute!" And that'd be it. But I was just so excited I couldn't stand it. I was so overwhelmed and happy for the new mom and was flooded with emotions. Also, having a toddler who I find to be the most incredible little man in the entire world also makes me feel like I know what is in store for this little guy and his parents, and it just gets me so happy!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby holding Liam. </td></tr>
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I literally can't stop thinking about meeting our baby girl in about two months. It's so close yet so far away and my thoughts have been consumed with her. I still have so much to finish at work and at home (THE NURSERY) and I'm sort of in shock this is really happening. Is it?<br />
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My mom offered to pay for another 3D ultrasound yesterday because she wanted to be there for it and also see the baby now that she's grown a bit more.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ahhh, :).</td></tr>
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I'll be 30 weeks Friday, 9 weeks to go (repeat c-section will be scheduled for 39 weeks)!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-80485538162164034782012-03-30T12:30:00.000-07:002012-03-30T12:30:01.199-07:00CurrentlyI wish you could see how many drafts of new blog posts I've started, never finished and never posted. If you're reading this then it means I actually finished a new post. Go me!<br />
<br />Here is what I'm currently up to:<br />
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- I'm 29 weeks pregnant as of today. I feel so close to holding this baby girl in my arms yet so far away. I've been having horrible back pain and what I think are regular contractions on a daily basis. I'm hoping that nothing is going on and this baby doesn't have plans for an early arrival.<br />
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- We're almost done with Carter's "big boy" room. He's been sleeping in his room almost every single night and the transition from co-sleeping was a lot easier than I imagined. Actually, there was no transition. We showed him his bed, told him that he was a big boy now and big boys sleep in their big boy beds, and he did. He was ready, and so were we. I'm planning a picture post dedicated to his new room in the very near future - we just need to finish a few minor details first, but here are some crappy iPhone pictures in the mean time:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter's bed, wall art and new headboard.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New storage area under his TV. I put this together myself - hammer, nails and all.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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-Now that Carter's room is almost finished, I can start work on the nursery. We have purchased the paint supplies and plan on painting the nursery tomorrow. We're re-using Carter's crib (that he never used but hoping this baby will) and my mom purchased the dresser and chair I wanted as her gift for the new baby. I'll be selling Carter's blue glider on Craigslist. I also bought a frilly pink footstool for the new chair, prints for the walls, and an adorable pom mobile from Etsy. Here is a peak of the letters I worked on last weekend for her room:</div>
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-My close friend <a href="http://dandelionpaperweight.com/">Amy </a> is having her baby right today. I shot her <a href="http://www.hellobee.com/2012/02/06/maternity-photo-session/">maternity </a>pictures and pictures of her son's <a href="http://www.hellobee.com/2012/03/20/liams-nursery-after/">nursery</a> not too long ago. She's asked me to take some pictures of her new family at the hospital after Liam (her son) is born. I can't wait to meet him!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZssA5xF-8HI/T3XyJIKawFI/AAAAAAAAB3o/-B4YZXl0ykU/s1600/IMG_0961-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZssA5xF-8HI/T3XyJIKawFI/AAAAAAAAB3o/-B4YZXl0ykU/s320/IMG_0961-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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- I'm also planning on winning the Mega Millions tonight, so if you never hear from me again..yea, I won. </div>
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Happy Friday!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/203/91D915E18D272649FB1918A3EC0D3CE2.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6235939410851850919.post-60119460452174424572012-03-08T08:23:00.001-08:002012-03-08T08:36:39.340-08:003D / 4D Ultrasound<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>**Due in June? Attention June 2012 Mommies!! If you would like to join the Facebook June 2012 Expecting Club, please email me MYork28 (at) gmail (dot) com.**</b></div>
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I had my 3D / 4D Ultrasound yesterday at 25 weeks 4 days. I had the same thing done at the same gestational age when I was pregnant with Carter so I really wanted to go at this exact time to compare pictures.</div>
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This entire pregnancy I've been really wanting to get one of the cute profile shots of our baby girl, but most of the ones I have are blurry or the nose isn't clear. Yesterday I was finally able to get my sweet profile picture! I love her little nose and pursed lips. Andy kept commenting the entire time at what big lips she has.</div>
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Maybe we'll have a mini Angelina Jolie? </div>
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I would like to introduce to you our little girl!</div>
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In the beginning both Andy and I kept commenting on how much she looked like Carter, but when I got home I started going through the pictures again, and I swear in some of these pictures she is the spitting imagine of my younger sister as a baby. I think that means she'll have a little more of my genes in her than Carter did, but we will see.<br />
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Okay, this one is one of my favorites! Check out baby girl flashing a peace sign with her Angelina lips. She already posing for the camera like her mommy.<br />
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I just can't wait to meet you little one. I think about you all day and night (it's a little hard not to considering all of the aches and pains I've been having), but I do. </span>
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<br /></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06422603807183544866noreply@blogger.com2