I am all Showered!!!

This past weekend was SO busy!!!!  Friday night, I got home from work, after almost being rear ended by some asshole who shouldn't even be allowed to have a license, only to get home, give pup a kiss then head off to the hockey game with Alan, Danny and Christina.  Great night out!

Saturday, I got up early, did some errands, came home, showered, attended my baby shower, then went home to bed. 

Sunday, I was up early again, went out with Alan, bought a crib, stroller, tub and some misc items, came home, showered, back to Babies R Us for a crib mattress, then went to a birthday paty for a 1 year old, then to our last HypnoBirthing class.  We got home, did a quick power clean of the house, and then I colloapsed in my bed, and woke up this morning!!!

Wow!!!!!

The Baby Shower was GREAT!!!  I am so thankful to Steph for hosting it for me. There were a few special people missing in attendance, but everyone who came were all very good friends, and it was great to see everyone all at once.  And of course to celebrate the coming of little Youngblood!!

Steph's decorations were amazing too.  Instead of the usual streamers etc, she had little clothes and socks and such spread around the houue, and hanging off the walls.  The cake was outstanding.  I think that she had Buddy from Cake Boss do it, it was just that good!

We played some good games, where we had to match the celebrity names with the baby names.  The other game was baby trivia.  For example...Do you know how many bones a baby has when born......300, compared to our 209.  Apparently, they have more because they fuse together!  And, the largest baby ever born naturally was 22lbs.  OMG!!!!  At the door, the wonderful co-host (Caitlin) was in charge of getting everyones guess for the amount of M&M's in the sippy cup!  I was way off on this one!!! 

Caitlin also did an excellent job of decorating the driveway in sidewalk chalk.  She had an area for me to park that indicated it was my spot, and all others would be towed.  The other half of the driveway was decorated in sidewalk chalk as well, welcoming me with a very colourful version of my name, and she had drawn pictures of balloons. 

I LOVED that friends and family from out of province also sent giftd and cards to the hosts house for the shower.  I was so suprised actually.  It was so meaningful and I felt to loved that they cared enough to do so, and to plan it all!  I was definately touched!!!!  Thanks guys!

Everyone who wasn't able to attend the shower has been asking me what we did and what I received as gifts.  (I even brought the truck instead of the car so that I could transport all the loot home with me!!! hahaha)
We receieved so many wonderful gifts, so this is going to be hard to recap it all:

- Glider/Rocker Chair wioth Ottoman

- Excersaucer

- Swing

- Floor Play thing

- Several Blankets....even a knitted homeade one from my friend Andrea, so thoughtful, I love it!!!
- Clothing
- Sippy Cups / Spoons, etc.
- Several Toys

- Gift Cards (Babies R Us, Walmart, The Bay)

- Cloth Diaper / Wipes

- Towels / Face Cloths
- Changetable Pad
- Misc TML attire
- Books

And of course I have received several other things throughout my pregnancy from several different people.  I also had the shower with my sisters and Mom.  I could go and grab the items and grab pics of them, but really I couldn't be bothered at the moment, as the wall paint is still drying, and I don't want the pets going in, plus I am exhausted!!!!

Here are some pictures!!!

The drive way when I pulled up!

 The front door!

The amazingly done cake!



The set up of the livingroom, that is the glider/rocker that the Springers got for me!



Guessing the amount of M&M's in the sippy cup.  My guess....146, actual answer...200.

Playing one of the games!

Gift opening! (Notice the decorations on the wall!)

What a cute little toy!

The Lovin' Hug Swing from Lindsay and Cory!!!

The cake with me, the host Steph and the co-host Caitlin!

The aftermath of the cake!

Me with the balloons!!!

Some clothes I received.

Blankets and such!

Stuff for bums and mouths!

Books and toys!!!!

The large items!

This is the room before the painting.  

This is the room after the painting, and after the building of furniture!  I love how the colour turned out! Very warm, and exactly the colour of "neutral" that we were looking for!

The crib, all built and ready for a baby!

The chair from the Springers!  Not sure yet if this will be the placement of it.

The dresser/changetable.



Empowered!!!

I went alone to the HypnoBirthing course tonight as Alan is out of town.  I wish he could have been there as we did the birthing plans.  Actually, it was a hand out and we just check off things we do or don't want.  If anyone wants a copy let me know, and I will scan and email it to you!
This class was really empowering and I am ready to do this.  I can honestly say that I am no longer scared or nervous to give birth.  I think I will always fear any "special circumstances" (emergencies) that can arise, but this is normal I am sure.  I am ready for a natural childbirth though. 
If you have any questions on what Hypnobirthing is or what it entails, please ask me.  The desciptions online can be vague and seem very new age, and really is just about knowing our body and what to expect, and how to relax to let your body do as it is naturally designed to do so!!!

Advice/Opinions/Comments I Have Received!!!

Well all give and get advice from time to time, and sometimes the advice is great and worthy, and at other times, you just want to punch the person who said it in the face.

Here is some of the "advice" or opinions or anecdotes I have been given in the last 8 months or so.  My Ideas are in brackets beside!!!

1.  Good luck cloth diapering, you will be covered in shit. (Yes, well, I can't wait to take a poo filled diaper and rub is all over my arms, legs and chest, you idiot!)
2.  You are taking grocery store brand prenatals???  (Will this kill my baby?)
3.  You're not going to an ob/gyn...good luck. (They are SURGEONS, why do I need a surgeon?)
4.  No baby in the bed with you, you'll have your work cut out for you. (Um...WHAT?????)
5.  A natural childbirth, you will never be able to do this without pain medication (Right, because I am the 1st woman EVER to want a natural childbirth)
6.  Let me pick a name for you.  (What, are you INSANE????)
7.  Your crotch is going to burn, its the worst feeling ever.  (I would imagine my crotch on fire is painful yes.)
8.  Listen to my horrible labour story. (Why would I want to hear that?)
9.  Will you keep the placenta?  (Oh yes, most definitely, I have a nice place on my mantel all picked out already..WTF???)
10.  Just make sure to choose a good name (Because, you thought I would choose a horrible name?)
11.  You don't understand because you aren't a mother.  (Apparently only genius' have children then????)
12.  You don't know what its like to support people financially. (Oh right, at the age of 28 with a job, a car, a house, etc etc etc...I have no idea the value of a dollar)
13.  You aren't sleeping well because the baby is preparing you for never sleeping again. (Okay, so really, parents go months straight with NO sleep, sure they do.)
14.  It's going to be so hard for you, such an adjustment (Ya, well, no shit asshole, but lets not forget that I married an amazing man, who is anticipating this baby as much as I am.)
15.  Oh wow, how did that happen? (I had unprotected sex days prior to ovulation, you idiot)
16.  How are you feeling? (My reaction varies depending on who asks this)
17.  Can I touch your belly? (Says the stranger in the Subway Sandwhich line up)
18.  Oh, look at you all preggers! (I HATE the word preggers, I actually even prefer to be called knocked up over preggers, and yes, I am aware of how I look!)

There are many more of course, but the one that pisses me off the most are when people tell me that I don't have a clue on things "because I am not a mother"  Being a mother doesn't make you a GOOD mother, it simply only alerts the world that sometimes idiots (usually the people who say this) can have kids too...and they do!!!  Why do people say that?  Why can I not have an opinion on something, or know something because I don't have my own children.  I have spent years around kids, and of course used to be one.  Also, I can say that certain products on the market are crap, and simply ways to make money, don't we all as consumers have the right to have an opinion on something that is available for sale????

For example:  At a store one day, I laughed and shook my head, the saleswoman looked at me, and asked what was funny.  I said that I was shocked that someone would make this, and then think that people would buy it.  Please see below:  (It's a little tent you put over the penis when changing the baby, so you don't get sprayed.)  She said to me, that if I was having a boy, it would come in very useful. Ya, sure it would!!!

There are of course many people who say great things to pregnant women, or hold open the door at the mall, offer you a hand when reaching something from up high, let you in front of them in the bathroom, all these great wonderful things.  Those moments I love and appreciate in people, its the rude and clueless ones that piss me off!!!

Please share other ridiculous things you have heard when pregnant.

Seriously Baby.....I'm Your Mother, And I Say NO!!!

Seriously, this baby is trying to escape.  Well, I am sure that he really isn't, but it sure feels that way!  A couple weeks ago, I noticed that the movements were very different and I think it is just because he is getting so big.  Then about a week ago, I felt a tightening in my belly area, and wasn't sure if it was "Braxton Hicks" contractions or not. In my course we call it "Practice Labour."  We actually use a lot of different wording in the class.  It's all a mind set, and I think it does help.
Anyway, the class was great, and I definitely am experiencing practice labour.  It is really interesting that my body does this.  Everyday it amazes me more and more, that the female human body was designed to give birth.  Your body knows exactly what to do, and when to do it.  I can't even describe the feeling of these practice surges, but it basically feels as I guess it should.  My uterine muscles contracting.  It seems like all day I have been having them.  More so than not anyway.  I am scared that he wants out, but I also know that this is normal and it is my body preparing for labour.  I also sometimes feel pressure on my cervix area, this I assume is normal as well.  Startles me everytime though.
We learn a lot about the body in the HypnoBirthing classes, and as a result, I am ready for whatever is going to happen and no longer look at childbirth as the scariest event I will ever go through....well, today, at this moment that's how I feel, tomorrow or later this evening could be a completely different story.  But, that's a good start that I only sometimes freak out now! haha Actually in the class this past Sunday, I was so pumped I wanted to have the baby that night.  I told everyone it was "Now or Never"  at which point, Alan almost died of embarrassment.  hahaha  I also shocked him when I asked her how I knew I was in labour and ready to go to the hospital.  I know though, that I did all the other first timers a favour as well!  haha.  It was previously mentioned that we wait to go to the hospital/birthing centre, wherever, until we are basically ready to deliver.  Well, how do I know.  I mean, I may think I am 10cm dilated, but really only be 2cm.  And I wouldn't want to go to the hospital, just to get sent home again.  Here is the kicker though.....I think that I only just realized that when you are "checked"  it is not a visual inspection, but a vaginal exam.  They feel your cervix to measure (fingers not rulers).  So, that brought me to another questions....can our husbands do this or can we do it ourselves, etc.  She said yes, it is perfectly possible, and accurate.  I will have to google this later on!  haha  Anyway, we learned about how to hear our body and to understand the signs of approaching delivery.  When to stay home, and when to get in the car, we also learned when not to get in the car!  I think I learnt more on Sunday about childbirth, than I have in my entire 28 years.  I just hope that Alan took notes!

On a side note...I am still feeling, well, pregnant!  I technically have just over 8 weeks to go.  I also have only 32 working days left as well!  A replacement for me has been hired, and she seems perfect for the job.  She starts on Monday, and I look forward to fully meeting her, and of course training her.  I think she will pick up quickly, and be able to figure things out!  Yay!!!!

Alan is gone now for an unknown amount of days, and in that time, I will try to do some nesting.....(am I suppose to dread it, or look forward to it?  hahaha)  I need to organize and clean out the linen closet.  I also have to clean the construction mess from the window install, and then Steph will paint the room, hopefully next week when she is back from Mexico.  I am so jealous I am not there as well.

My shower is coming up too!  I can't wait.  It has been months on the planning, and I can't believe the time is finally approaching.

Oh...and people are still convinced I am small.  Seriously, everyone I see says I am so small for the amount of weeks that I am.  I always reply that I don't feel small at all.  In fact, I feel massive, and I always feel so full, and bloated.  I hate eating supper, because I feel like crap afterwards, and usually puke it up anyway. I also feel like I constantly have to pee.  I did go to the mall this weekend though, and didn't cry because the bathroom line up was too long.  It didn't prove effective last time! I think that because it is my first that I am smaller than some.  Also, I am not cramming my face every second I get, so I haven't really gained a ton of weight elsewhere.  (Yay yay yay!!!!!)  I also figure that because my torso is long in comparison to my legs that my belly is stretched longways, rather than straight out.  I have no idea.  Maybe I should take it as a compliment.  But it always comes off as an insult. 

And another cute comic!!!!

(Do I really need his permission for use????,

if anything I am letting people know about him and his fantastic comics!!!!)

30 Weeks!!!

Here I am at 30 weeks along! (Taken on Fri, Sept 10, 2010). 

I had my regular appointment just yesterday, and am now going every 2 weeks!  The baby's heartbeat was 140bpm.  Funny how as soon as she brings the Doppler towards me, we can already hear it.  The first few times when we heard it at 10 weeks or so, it took a couple minutes to find it.  His movements have also changed a lot.  He is just getting so big, and seems to be stretching alot more now, and less room to do it.

For the most part I am feeling well.  People always ask me how I am feeling, and the only thing I can really say is that I feel pregnant.  I am tired more now than I was in my early weeks of pregnancy.  My back is less sore now, but my sciatica nerve is worse then it was.  I still puke or dry heave almost daily, and I constantly feel full.  I feel like I am going to explode some days.  But all in all, I would say I feel good for the most part, as good as I can anyway.

I stole this saying from a friends blog, I thought it was fitting.  "It seems to me that being pregnant is like being young: You can't appreciate how awesome it is while you are in the midst of it."

The HypnoBirthing classes are going well.  We have had 2 classes so far, and have another 4 more to go.  I can say that I have taught myself to be able to relax into a deep state.  Something I never thought I would be able to do.

Today is a big day.  I am at home right now, listening to the window installers, smash away at the old window.  We are getting a new window is the baby's room today.  After they leave, I have to hurry to the southside and write my Law and Risk Management exam.  I am terrified I am going to fail.  Some things I know really really well, and for other parts, I have NO idea.  I did the practice exams, and Alan helped me, but it seems as though I don't understand the questions.  Very confusing.  If I do fail, then I simply just pay to write again.  Of course though, I will have to go to my employer and tell him that I failed.....that will be embarrassing!

I did get to sit in on a couple interviews last week for my position.  That was neat.  The one woman was INSANE!!!  Like, actually insane, and the other couple I liked, and thought they would be great for the job.  Just another 8 weeks or so, and I am officially on Maternity Leave.  OMG, I get to take Maternity Leave, and then almost a year of Parental Leave!!!  Wow!!!

I love the shadow in this picture!

Celebrate with CANDY!!!

Today marks 30 weeks!  Wow!  I know I say it all the time..but seriously, where has the time gone?  10 weeks left until my due date! Good thing Alan bought the car seat today!!!  Yay!!

I have an appointment on Monday, and I haven't actually weighed myself for about a month now.  Today alone, I ate a pack of Fruitella, a Pepsi, 4 packs of Popeys Smokes..I mean Candy Sticks, and an entire pack of Sweetarts.  And this of course, was only the snacks.  If we include meals, add in a bagel with extra butter and pasta baked with cheese!  hahaha

I have warned everyone in the office that if I collapse or start seizing, it is just a sugar overload!  haha 

Too Cold To Come Out To Play

Little SWB has been moving around very differently lately.  I don't yet know what he is doing.  Earlier today I thought he was trying to escape.  I reminded him it was too cold for him out in the non amniotic world.  Seemed to work, he settled down shortly thereafter.  However, at that time when I thought he was trying to escape, I was dry heaving a puking into the bathroom sink.  Maybe it was too much strain on my abdomen.

We did the Hypnobirthing class on Sunday, and I think we both enjoyed it.  Alan wasn't too alarmed, and no babies or goats were sacrificed around a fire, and no blood was drank either.  It really wasn't too meditative for us.  Read up on what exactly it is or read my previous entry for the class description.  We learned a couple simple breathing exercises, and we learned to relax a bit.  Kinda yoga-like, but just sitting and not being in a downward dog or some ridiculous body movement.  We did an exercise where we had to imagine ourselves in a kitchen, feel the heat of the oven, grab a cutting board, feel the lemon....yada yada yada, and eventually we had to bite into the lemon.  Well, aside from freaking out (calmly) because I couldn't imagine a kitchen, I did feel my mouth water when biting into the lemon.  No, seriously, it took me forever to choose a kitchen, I initally walked into mine, then screamed and ran (dishwasher is having issues, and LAST NIGHTS dishes are everywhere), then I was in Alan's parents, back to mine, and then in an imaginary one.  Aside from that, it was good.  I have to practice the breathing this week and listen to the CD as well. 
Alan and I did learn lots though, and it seems like it will be great.  I understand what it is, and why it is important.  I have to remember the "Fear, Tension, Pain" drawing.  And of course, actually apply it.  We learnt about the uterine muscles and how they work when in a "surge" and how to help the muscles work properly so not to delay labour. 
We also got to watch a few quick deliveries where the women practiced Hypnobirthing.  I was amazed that Alan didn't puke or faint, and generally didn't seem disturbed.  He commented on the fact that I missed most of the video as I was watching him.
Alan and I cracked a lot of jokes, and laughed alot.  It was fun for us.

He is working like a crazy man now, so I hope he can make the next one.  It really wouldn't be a date night without him.

AND...without further adieu, here are the most recent photos I have (taken minutes ago).  I wish Alan was here so he could have taken them better, but with the self timer (which is my normal way of doing it anyway) it may have been better to see a side by side, and of course, I couldn't figure out the side by side!

The bare belly with Bitey-Pup too!

Ah crap, I forgot to use all small letters, looks like I forgot about my new blogging style!  hahaha

deal with my being different...and pissed off-ish-ness!

new look to my blog....sans capitals!!!  i am writing more like i do in personal emails, so the thoughts might be more random, graphic, rude and grammatically incorrect!

i feel much different this week than i did last week.
i don't know if the baby is moving differently or if perhaps i am having braxton hicks contractions.  which according to alan...don't exist.  neither do fetal hiccups.  remember, i know nothing, and make up almost everything i think or say.  hahaha  wasn't he overhearing the trash woman talk at the clinic about hiccups?  sometimes trash women actually know stuff as well, not just his beautiful amazing wife!!!

zoe comes this weekend, i can't wait.  we plan on going to the market, going to thyme, and eating fresh fruits and veg.  that's the plan thus far! 

we met with the doula the other night, and we really like her.  i think she will be great to have there at the hospital and at home beforehand if time allows.  she asked us both millions of questions, and i cried the most part of the sessions.  just little tears though, not actually sobbing.  she probably thinks i am completely insane, and if that's the case, her thoughts aren't too far off!  haha

i signed us up for pre-natal classes.....kinda!!!  a few people have recommended that i read the book "hypnobirthing" as it helped their labour immensely.  so, i read some reviews on it (apparently, that's not the same as reading the book), and talked about it with my doula. she said that there are classes as well on it.  so, the other night, i signed us up.  i wonder now if i made a huge mistake!!!  here is the class description :

Practicing Hypnobirthing® will improve your body's ability to have its perfect birth "
Your body, without any fear, will give birth without excessive pain. Fear present during birth causes tension in the body, which deprives the uterine muscles of oxygen and causes a tightening of the muscles that close the cervix. Dr. Grantly Dick-Read, an obstetrician in the 20th Century, coined this process as the 'fear-tension-pain' syndrome typical of modern childbirth. This 'fear-tension-pain' process is unnecessary and is not your bodies natural way to give birth.
HypnoBirthing® teaches women techniques to deal with their fears and stop the 'fear-tension-pain' cycle by training the body to release tension. Unnecessary pain is avoided and birth is experienced in a relaxed and natural way.

Hypnobirthing® is a full child birth education class and as such, we cover all topics necessary to help you through your pregnancy, labour and postpartum times.
Some topics that we will be covering include:


- What Happened to Birth?
- Your Changing Body
- Preparing your Body & Mind for Birth
- Fear Release & Birthing Affirmations
- Pre-birth Parenting
- Selecting your Caregivers & Birthing Environment
- Your Body: Perfectly Designed for Birth
- Techniques for Achieving Your Gentle & Relaxed Birth
- Breastfeeding
- Postpartum Needs & Care
- Community Resources & Support

in theory it sounds like it will be very informative, and help me to release my fears of a human being removed from my body through my crotch, but i also fear that it might be a little bit new age.  i really hope that both alan and i enjoy it, and don't drive home sunday thinking we wasted so much money and have to endure another 5 weeks of it.  its on sundays from 6pm until 8pm for 6 weeks i think.  as long as there isn't a huge focus on meditation, etc, then all should be good!  and because our doula is a huge supporter of hypnobirthing, then it will be even more beneficial!

monday night, we pretty much bought a car, and then unbought a car.  we backed out at the last minute.  i really didn't feel right about it.  and we got sucked into the standard routine from a used car salesman. 
there were times when i could barely breathe, i felt so much stress, and i could feel my son was stressed out as well!!!!  it wasn't good.  i was all tight and tense and couldn't focus on anything.  i can't imagine being one of those unfortunate people who are always stressed out.
he (used car douche) even mentioned several times about his lung cancer he has had twice.  okay seriously, i don't care.  for several reasons....a) i SAW you smoking, you later denied you were smoking (liar) b) we don't know you, c) you are so wormy and d) your perv stash is freaking me out.  that's right alex!  fuck you!!!!!  he really pissed me off yesterday when i called him to say we weren't going through with it.  well, minutes after i hung up, he called alan.  did he not see during our meeting, that i am the more dominate one when it comes to negotiating deals, deciding things, etc.  why talk to alan?  "alex" should have known alan would say he would call me to discuss. 
when alan told me about this, i freaked out, and instantly called alex and nicely gave him a piece of my mind.  he then said to me that he only called alan to let him know that he was calling him for a reason??  wtf??? do we look stupid?  clearly we aren't because we didn't take the crap deal he was willing to offer us!n  so ya, it's official, i hate alex the used car salesman!

3 other people are pissing me off now too.  2 i can ignore, 1 i cannot.  i fear i will loose it on the one i can't ignore.  the other 2, well, frankly, i don't even know why i'm so irritated by them, after all, things haven't changed, just always stayed the same between them and i.  why is everyone pissing me off????
whatever.  everything seems to irritate me these days, so i am deciding it is purely pregnancy related, and i have the right to be pissed off and irritated at people.  but, i warn you all, tread lightly because i am a volcano waiting to erupt, and throw and puke on, scalding hot lava, with precise accuracy and distance!

and to top it off, while driving to work this am, i was puking into a bag...while driving.  sometimes, i just can't pull over when necessary! 

here is a fuzzy bad quality pic of my cat who also looks somewhat pissed off and doesn't care what we think, he is laying in the stove because he loves to. deal with it!!!

have a good day y'all., from lewis and myself!

Meet my Baby Boy....Electronically!!!!

This past weekend was GREAT!!!  So much happened, even though it was a pretty relaxed weekend!  
Friday night, I can't even remember, but Saturday morning, I went to St. Albert to the market, where I got a car seat cover for winter, a hooded towel, 2 huge receiving blankets, and a sleep sack!  I got exactly what I went for, and then some more too!  Shortly after getting home, Steph came over to check out the stuff I have bought BBB (baby boy Bond) so far.  I loved opening all the drawers and basically showing off all the diapers, clothes, and other miscellaneous items!!  Such a moment of pride, I can't believe that in a matter of weeks (well, 11) I will be showing off my baby!!!!  Then, Alan came home from fishing and we went to the 3D Ultrasound.  Following this beautiful sight, we went for dinner with the Springers, and as soon as we got home, Alan went to bed, as he wasn't feeling well.  I spent the night watching TV, and waking Alan up to see how he felt!  Sunday morning, we lazed around a bit, and then went to the West Edmonton Mall, along with the rest of Edmonton.  It was so busy, I was going crazy, but it is back to school shopping.  Other than lunch and frozen yogurt (of course) I got 2 clips for my Pandora bracelet to keep my charms where I want them.  After the mall, we went to Babies R Us and chose the crib, stroller and car seat!  All ready to go there.  I am so glad Alan was there, as it is impossible for me to make huge decisions like that myself. 

Now for the super exciting news......the 3D Ultrasound has come and gone, and I am still in awe over it.  All of our parents, my sisters and a friend had the luxury of being able to view the ultrasound live online, and I was so happy they all could.  Steph and Cait came along with Alan and I, and they enjoyed it as well!

It is confirmed, he is a HE! (My dreams proved me wrong again!!!)

So, here are some pics from the ultrasound!!!!

Moving around a little bit!!

Still relaxing with his little hand close by!

It's a BOY!!!  (The tech actually said he had a long penis, we all laughed so hard!!!)

A little foot and toes!!!

Still sleeping!

 (Look at his bicep!!!)

He opened his eyes to look back at us!!!!

Is that a smile?

This is where I shed my first tear!  He is sucking his thumb...it was so sweet, and he is so human like (of course) it is still shocking though to know that he is Alan and my son!

All snuggled up using his arm and my belly as a pillow!

After playing with his cord, he decided he was tired and needed yet another nap! (Another tearful moment for me!!!)

Folded in half!

It was so amazing to see, and I loved looking over at Alan and seeing him smile and look interestingly on at the screens!

The tech said that everything looked good (she isn't a radiologist though of course).  She estimates him to be fairly tall.  She said that he looked very much like his Dad but with my nose.  She also said he has a little bit of fine hair on his head, and has nice full lips!  I can't wait to kiss him.  He will probably stay in the position he is in now, as he is getting too big (approx 3lbs) and there isn't enough room for him to move around much).

It's amazing how much you can love someone without ever meeting them or knowing them yet.  I want to hug him so tight, and kiss every part of his face over and over again!  I want to hold him, and love him, and kiss him!  AND....I think he wants me to hold him!These are going to be a long 11 weeks ahead of me!!!

GDS...To Skip or Not to Skip???

Man-oh-man, did I ever screw this up!  You know when someone says to get a test done in a few weeks, well, those weeks have come and gone and I didn't get around to getting the testing done.
From what I understood when I was first given the blood req forms, was that I had to have blood work done to confirm my blood type for my WinRo shot.  And I had to have the Gestational Diabetes Test done at the Perinatal Clinic a week after that, or a week after the WinRo blood work, I forget exactly.
I go yesterday before my pre-natal appointment to get the blood work done at the lab in the clinic I am already in. I decide to look at my form...it states on it "Nothing to eat, drink, smoke or chew 3 hours before."  Okay so, skip that test for today.
I see my doctor, she asks me about it, and I tell her that I don't really understand what I am suppose to do.  She then tells me to do a 3 hour fast and get blood work, and they then I will be called to be informed as to where and when I go next to drink the orange crap.
So, this morning, I fast and go to the clinic again, the girl at the counter states that I have to wait an hour there after drinking the orange crap.  WTF???  I thought I was only getting blood work done first?
I run upstairs to my pre-natal clinic to get the booking girl to explain it all to me.  Again, I am now on a 3rd explanation and it is different from the first one SHE gave me, the doctor and the lab girl.  I have since called the DynaLife Lab people to make an appointment, and I can't get in anywhere by appointment at 7am.  I do still have to make it to work at 8:30am.  I can go as a walk in, but "apparently" they need to prepare the drink.

I am thinking maybe I will just skip the testing.  I am not sure I can though as I also have to have blood work done to test for syphilis.  Which I guess is routine testing done 3 times throughout your pregnancy.  It just doesn't seem to be able to work out for me time wise.  That or I am too lazy really!  And just annoyed and irritated!!!
And I also hear that this test is brutal, being made to chug this orange crap in seconds, and then sit there with a full bladder for 1 hour.
Can I skip the testing though??  Do I have to have it?  I have opted out of other tests and medical care which was recommended I get.  Chances are I do not have GD as I get my sugar tested through my urine at every appointment right?  I am not overweight, etc etc etc.  However, my mom is diabetic and my older sister had GD with her last pregnancy.  So, does that mean I am at a higher risk of having it???

I did find one place that opens tomorrow morning at 7:30, and I might have to a wait about 15 mins to actually get in, so if I do have to wait, then I will be late for work.  Actually, I will be late regardless as I have to sit there for 1 hour, and then get to work, luckily it's only a couple blocks away!

THE Room is Started!!!

Last night Alan decided it would  be a great idea to move the spare room into the den.  I of course went along with it, as I have wanted this done for a number of months now.  So, we got it all moved and organized.  It looks great, we just need to move the blinds, curtains and wall pictures still.  Then the spare room is complete in its new location.

We also built the dresser/changetable for the babies room.  Alan did the bulk of it, and I did the drawers, and Alan only had to fix a couple of the wheel things that I apparently put on the wrong side.  We also started attacking the closet with full force.  So much stuff, most of which we threw out, as it was crap we had accumulated for years and never did anything with.  After setting up the dresser and cleaning the room out, I put everything we have for the baby in the drawers.  The top drawer is FULL of diapers!!!!!  So many cute things, I even kissed the little dog I bought in the States.  I love it so much, it's so cute!!!!!!

By the time the night was over, I was beat.  A day filled with lunch with friends, a trip to Costco, laundry, dresser building, more laundry, closet cleaning, and of course more laundry, means my bed was looking pretty fine!  I finally get into bed, and little boy Bond decided it is time to play.  I call Alan in to the room to see my tummy moving, and we both just watched it and laughed.  I then took a video.  Check it out.  The quality isn't great as it was on my phone, so I will explain.  The giant blob is my tummy, and the gaping hole is my bellybutton.  My breathing is easy to see as it is regular, but you can really see the punches and kicks.

I didn't go to work today as my back and sciatic nerve are killing me.  I think too much activity yesterday!  I did manage to get out and go to HomeSense today as Alan said walking around would be good for me.  I am sure he didn't mean for me to go to HomeSense and go shopping, but, he should have known that's what I would do!  hahaha

Anyway, I have given up on finding "the perfect" nursey decor, and decided to find a picture I loved and then work from there.  Well, today...I found that picture!  It was quite the drama, as I grabbed it and took it to the next aisle to really look at it, think about it, and inspect it.  This woman comes up and asks me if I am getting it.  I tell her that I think I am.  She then pressures me telling me that she had brought her son to the store, as she wanted to get it. Then she calls him over, and he says he likes it, and she clearly wants him to say that he has to have it, and then rip it out of my hand.  THEN....his daughter comes over and grabs the side of it.   The woman asks me again if I am getting it, even though if by the laws of "First Come, First Serve" I clearly am the winner.   I mean, there was no one around when I picked it up and practically put it in my cart.  I then feel bad that they want it to, but you know, I figured that if I didn't get it now, then I would loose my chance.  And then decide that I am buying it, and if I change my mind it doesn't matter, as I can just get my money back.  But leaving the store without it, means its gone!  AND...it is exactly the type of picture I was looking for too!  Eventually I came to my senses and thought screw her, grabbed it and pretty much ran away.  Then I kept seeing her, and it was so big I couldn't even get it in the cart so I had to carry it around.  I am glad I stood my ground though and screwed them over.  It made me smile that I got what I wanted....and fairly too!  PLUS...it was on clearance!!!

The theme now for the babies room is...well, it's....you know....it's.....okay, so there isn't a theme, but I guess if I had to choose one then I would say it is colours!!!!

I also bought a lamp, 3 more wall pictures, an adorable pillow, and wall hooks for all 3 initials.  Although, in the picture, you can only see the middle and last initial as I turned the first around!!!!  Sorry guys!!!!  I think that I will try to find curtains or the bedding that is red.  I'd like something in orange and green still as well!!!!  My hunt is on!!!  The had really cute mini table and chairs as well, although that isn't necessary at this point.  Steph had picked up a stick-on wall decal the other day so I can't wait to see that!!!   You can't see the dresser/changetable in the picture, so I will wait until later to update that picture when I have more.  The window will be installed in about 3 weeks, then painting, then all the fun decorating stuff can really begin!!!  And then a couple weeks after that is my shower!!!  I can't wait!

Where does the time go?

Another post in just 2 days....I hope I am  not causing anyone too much shock!!!

Things in regards to the pregnancy are going really well.  At the end of the month I have the 4D ultrasound, as well as my WinRo shot because of my negative blood type, or is it positive, I seriously forget.  I just know when and where I have to go to get it.  My next test after that will be for gestational diabestes.  I hope that goes well!  This is my last monthly appointment, and then I am going every 2 weeks to see my prenatal doctor...well, 1 of 11.

Today I am 26 weeks and 4 days!  Getting very close to my 3rd trimester.  The home stretch is coming so soon now!  I never thought I would be at this point.  I would look at people at my Yoga class (also known as the worst 90 minutes of my week) who were 25-30 weeks, and wondered what I would look like at that point, and how I would feel.  I am having a lot of back pains and sciatic nerves problems, but am getting through it.  Last week it was so bad that I told Alan I was done with this pregnancy and that I give up.  I also said that this little boy would be an only child.  We will see if those words prove to be wrong later on!
To help with the back pains, I have a hot water pack, new shoes and am trying to get a monthly massage.  Oh, and I bought a new Lulu Lemon wrap...just because it makes me happy!  I miss my hoodies so much! 

I have gotton in contact with a Doula.  My massage therapist has a client who does this, and passed me her number, as this is something I am very interested in for a number of reasons.  I have a very close friend who is a Doula as well, and she has offered her services.  However, I am leary about how I might treat her at that time, I always seem to think that having someone I know there will be rough as I might be mean to them, but I also know that those I love, and especially her will not take offense to it, and will probably even find it funny!  I know what she will provide me with the comfort and insanity I will likely appreciate at the stressful time of removing a human baby from my body through my crotch!!!!!  Because, word on the street has it that when going through childbirth, that is seriously what is going to happen! OMG!!!

I also know that it will be so hard for her to coordinate her being here for the birth as she lives in Ontario and a 4 hour plane ride at very short notice will be a challenge.  I really don't know what to do. I am stuck as to what decisions to make.  What if I got into labout early, and she isn't here, or she has taken a week off work to be with me, and I am late, and she ends up having to leave before the baby is born?  This is why I feel someone local might be my best option.  We will see.  I am going to meet her tomorrow and see how we get along, and what she believes in and if we are on the same page when it comes to a birth plan. (Which, apparently, according to my book, I should be thinking about....)  OMG AGIAN!!!!

And for photos!!!!

25w1d (Underwater)

25w1d - Floating.  I had this same picture at 17 weeks I think (When in England)

And the most recent where I am at 26w0d.

 (Taken on Aug 13, 2010)

Girls Girl Girls!!!

Last weekend I spent around 4 days with my Mom and 2 sisters. Something I rarely do as I live so far away from them all.

I flew in on Thursday night at 11:30pm into Toronto.  From the airport I went straight to the hotel where they had thrown me a suprise baby shower!  Even though, I was so tired, and stuffy from the plane, it was a lot of fun, and I got some great gifts.  Aside from baby stuff Christine got me a Pandora Carriage Charm, and Brittany got me a Pandora Hedgehog Charm.  I love them!  I had a grand total of 3 charms at this point.

The next morning we got up, had a crapola breakfast, and then headed to Buffalo, New York.  the border crossing was really quick, and cool as we had the top down in the convertable.  Both Brittany and I were freaking out, as we hate the top down feature!

We checked into our mediocre hotel, and instantly started shopping.  The next couple days consisted of more shopping and eating and pedicures!

I did buy a cute baby outfit, a sweater and a Coach Clutch, which I LOVE!!!! 

We threw Christine a suprise baby shower in the Pandora store. We all pitched in and bought her a bracelet, and then we all bought the same charm, so, now I have 4.  I love the charm we all bought, it is a great memory from the mini vacation. Oh, and Christine bought the hedgehog charm as well, so we also all have that one!

Sunday, we packed up and left, and headed back to Canada.  Again, the border crossing was very quick.  I got into the airport with much time to spare, so I decided that have a chair massage, which I think was the best massage I have ever had, followed by an ice cream.  The fligth back was so uncomfortable.  I really don't think I can fly again during this pregnancy, unless of course there was an emergency.

All in all the weekend was great.  We did gang up on eachother a bit, as families do, but I think we all know that it can be easier to poke fun, then it can be to show love! 

Here are some pictures of the trip!

Us Sisters sitting on the back of the convertable!

(Christine (oldest), Brittany (youngest), Me (middle))

Us in our Baboushkas!

The suprise shower we threw Christine at the Pandora store.

The noodles we bought for the pool that we had to walk around with at the mall all day!

Us 3 girls in the pool...with our noodles!!!

This underwater shot took many attempts to have a half decent one! 

All 4 of us on our last day together!

My Body, My Wonderful Body

I've said before that women's bodies are truly amazing, and here I am experiencing this in MY OWN body, everyday!
Everyday, several times a day I can feel this little man moving around.  I am not yet sure if I can feel his kicks or punches, but I feel something, that is for sure.
This past weekend, I was watching TV, and as my belly is getting larger, I see it more than I ever have before.  Well, I thought I saw my belly move, but wasn't sure, so I continuously watched, and sure enough, little man was moving so much that it was visible from the outside.  Alan also caught it as well.  It was so special that I was able to experience something and then instantly share it with him.
People have often said to me "Wait until your tummy moves on its own, or you see hand move across"  Well.....I had no idea it would be so soon.
I almost want to rush to the store and grab a packet of Malteesers and be just like the couple on the commercial!  haha

I am currently 24 weeks and 4 days, ALREADY!!!  It seems as though the time has passed so quickly, of course with a few very slow days and week squeezed in there as well.

Our preparations for him have slowed down for now.  We ordered a new window for his room, but it cannot be installed until sometime in September, so we have to wait until after the installation to be able to paint, and decorate, we will also wait for our divorce...I mean furniture building day until after the install as well.  Since I won't be able to lift the furniture, I think I will stay out of that altogether, especially as it can be so stressful for couples to share in building furniture!  haha
I think we have all the diapers we need though, unless of course I hate a certain style and have to replace them.  We did buy a dresser/changetable this weekend though.

Steph has started planning the shower, which will happen in October.  I am so excited!!!!  She will do an amazing job as a host!  I hope that everyone will be able to come and celebrate with me.

This weekend, I am flying to Ontario, only to hop in my Mom's convertible car shortly after landing, with my sisters and mom, to spend the weekend in Buffalo, NY.  It should be a good time, hopefully there aren't any family fights or freakouts.  No guarantees of course though!  It will be neat to see my oldest sister Christine pregnant as I don't think I saw her pregnant with her first at all! 

At the end of the month, I have my 4D ultrasound scheduled.  As creeped out as I am by these scans, I am excited to get a sneak peek of baby and confirm again that he does in fact have a penis!  I am allowed to bring people with me, and so far, Steph and Caitlin are coming.  Zoe will also be in from Houston that weekend, so hopefully she can attend as well!!!

Things are going so well.  I am though, incredibly lazy, and seriously cannot even remember the last time I cooked or cleaned.  I still do laundry all the time, but other than that NOTHING!!!  I even ask Alan to get me things like ice cream and water!  I feel horrible, but at the same time, I know I have limited time left to be lazy or bored, so I am going to ride this out as long as possible, in which, these days are numbered anyway.  This second trimester has really shown me the true meaning of fatigue and discomfort.  Still manageable though, where I can productively continue to work and function (on some days), so that's good.

On another note, this past weekend, we were able to help friends move, attend the annual Capital Ex Festivities and do lots of yard work.  Alan did the most part of the yard work, okay, all of it, I did have to refill his water though, as it was another scortcher this weekend.  I also did a little shopping, and Alan fixed his newly aquired weed eater and blower! 

Life is great!  I am in great health, as is Baby Bond and Alan.  The pets are happy, healthy and full of love, the bills are paid, we love our house and jobs, and of course eachother, what more could we ask for? Our lives are damn near perfect!!!!

Happy August Everyone!

And finally....some updated photos (although not from this week)!

22w1d

23w1d

23w1d (this picture looks funny because it my belly looks all bumpy and the way I am standing I am really looking as though I will tip over!!!)