Mommy's Little Man

Week 35 - 08/16 - 08/22/2009

2009-08-24T05:59:00.000-07:00

Wow what a crazy busy week!!!

On the 16th we went and got Avan's pictures done! They were pretty cute! Although, I doubt we will use Walmart again.....as it is a full week and we still have not gotten a call back that they are ready....bummer! Hopefully, soon though....they told us Friday last week. Can't wait to share them with everyone! We chose the very first picture, it showed all 3 of his wonderful Dimples!!

Then Monday the 17th Avan surprised me and CRAWLED!!!! He is now fully mobile! We really thought he would walk first! So it was a shock that he crawled! Made me get super teary-eyed too! My little man is growing so big!

Avan celebrated his 8 month victory by popping 2, yes TWO new teeth!!!! I knew he started teething, so I checked his mouth daily! Then on the 20th I actually finally felt them! I only saw 1 popped through and the other was very close. Sure enough the next day the other one popped! So my big boy now has 2 teeth at once! Poor little guy! No wonder he has been fussy!

In other news I have started a small project. I now am sewing things for folks! I named them Burn Busters...help from my BBC girls of course! They are leggings for when they crawl around, extra warmth and to help with potty training! I originally saw them for very expensive and thought, hmmm I could figure this out and sewing them! Sure enough, figured it out and now I am selling them! Nick is super excited about it. He is so supportive! He helps pick out colors and has thought of a few ideas. It is great!

We have also decided on Avan's first birthday theme! We are going with Dinos! I found the cutest set that is "The Big One" with a dino wrapped around the number 1. I love it! Should be a blast to decorate!

Other news...Avan has leaned forwards to get kisses from Mommy, has semi-clapped and also reaches for me! I love it! Anything enw and exciting is fun! Aren't kids just wonderful blessings??!!!!

Week 34 - 08/09 - 08/15/2009

2009-08-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Where is the time going? We are busy doing all of things we would like to do prior to our move. I can't believe we only have a month and half left in VA!

Avan is learning so much each week! On Tuesday, he decided he would let go of the couch and slap it to get Macy's attention! He still has yet to crawl crawl...but rather goes backwards or scoots. But he gladly pulls himself up on EVERYTHING! He also does this push-up thing. He loves to just stand and walk with us. I really wonder if he will just walk instead of crawling!

Mommy got a new toy! A new iphone! Now I can update while we are on the road and during the move! So cool! It is a neat little gadget that should help us during our cross-country trip!

We had our first big boo boo as well! Daddy and Mommy were folding and putting away laundry, and BAM right off the bed. Poor little guy ended up with a small rug burn on his forehead! Perfect, just in time for pictures! We go in Sunday to see Christie. She has been wanting to snap photos of Avan for a while. We thought 8 month Walmart pictures would be fun to do! Hopefully, they turn out well!

I am also in love with this websie indiesunshine.com. A great site for WAHM mommies! I bought the cutest sling from there and am now going for a Mai Tei wrap. Nick is even helping in the purchase so he will wear Avan. For those that follow my blog, you should check it out...lots of cute and great things!

Week 33 - 08/02 - 08/08/09

2009-08-17T06:18:00.001-07:00

To start off the week we celebrated our 3rd year of marriage! A year ago August 2nd we learned Avan was a little boy in my tummy! This year we enjoyed DC! Great to enjoy it with Avan outside my belly!!!

On Saturday I spent the day sewing! I made Avan these leggings so that he doesn't get the horrible rug burn. Super cute. Then I took a pair of Daddy's wool socks and made the cutest Sock Monkey! Avan loves having a crafty Mommy to make him new toys!

Avan is developing his little voice more and more! At the end of the week he began this squeal of excitement! It is sooo loud! Very cute in an abnoxious kind of way!

Week 32 - 07/26 - 08/01/2009

2009-08-17T06:12:00.000-07:00

A very exciting week. On the 29th we decided to puree some chicken breast for Avan and he LOVED it! So now he is getting some added protein! Really cute to see the new texture in his diet! Wonder when he will get teeth, so he can have more table foods. We are still battling some teething symptoms. Low Grade fever, crankiness and chompin on things!

On July 30th we drove up to Washington, DC and stayed for a couple of days. It was wonderful! Avan LOVED the Zoo. He followed the animals and kicked in excitement. He also enjoyed just checking things out, sleeping, and chilling with mommy in the sling.

On August 1st, Avan waved Bye Bye or signed Mama. It seems he lifts his hand and moves it when someone is leaving.....although he does the same movement when I do the sign for mama. Hard to say which one he is doing. The first time we noticed it was standing in line to se the Ruby Slippers. A woman behind us was waving at him and he did this. Super cute!! He did amazing for the whole trip. Just relaxed and went along with what we did.

Week 31 - 07/19 - 07/25/2009

2009-07-27T12:29:00.001-07:00

Sunday the 19th Nick and I decided to give us all more space in the Family Bed. We side-carred Avan's crib with ours. He really likes it! He plays in there while we settle in for the night. Then one of us rock or cuddle him until he falls asleep. Then we lay him in his crib. When he wakes at 1am he moves into our bed. We all seem to like the new setup! Works great for laundry day as well! I can fold and hang clothes why he plays and scoots around the bed!

We made it 7 months!!! Oh my goodness my little boy is 7 months old! He is closer to turning a year old! We are now part of a mommy/baby playdate group. Becky and Crystal bring their kiddos and we all enjoy lunch and just hanging out. It has been so nice, sadly though I will be moving! I hope to continue the friendship! Avan is still crawling backwards! It seems he doesn't have enough muscles to get him forwards. He tries and falls.

Nick and I are wondering if he has begun teething. He has been running a 99.0-100.0 temp and hadn't slept well over the weekend. So far I don't see anything and he has no drooling or that sort of thing. Being a FTM has its downfalls! Sometimes I just wish we had the answers!

Week 30 - 07/12 - 07/18/2009

2009-07-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

On Sunday the 12th I got a wondeful suggestion to bake a sweet potato and make "fries" out of it for Avan....then roll in cheerio powder! Avan had a blast! He went right to town and shoveled it all in quick! So this will be a new thing for him! It seemed he would prefer Mommy and Daddy feeding him.....but this way he does it all by himself! So cute!

On Tuesday the 14th Avan did the amazing, PULLED HIMSELF UP! My girlfriend Stacy and I were upstairs. I was putting away all of his clothes and turned around. We heard giggling and turned back to see Avan looking at me! It was soo cute! I was shocked that he could do that already! He grows more and more every day!

Avan crawls great BACKWARDS, for some reason he will not go forwards. We try to coax him but it doesn't work. He does get around great though backwards! Kinda silly he backs himself into a corner and gets really upset!

Week 29 - 07/05 - 07/11/2009

2009-07-27T12:18:00.001-07:00

Another week! This week was nice and quiet! Avan is eating more and more foods. His menu consists of Avocodos, Bananas, Sweet Peas, Green Beans, Acorn Squash, Plums, White and yellow Peaches, Pears, Mangos, Apples, Sweet Potatoes, and any other little tastes we give him. He loves to eat! We are happy to report we are almost at 7 months of nursing, woohoo! It is wonderful! I am glad we have been so successful with it! I hope to go as long as we can!

Becky came over and we were able to sew our slings! They look great! I am so proud of us for making them!

We received the best news ever this week! We are moving back to WA in October! I am still in shock! So thrilled to get our orders finally! I guess the Navy got a small fund, so orders were turned back on and poof there our orders were! Nick will start "C" School October 23rd! Then of course he will have to return to a Submarine. But good news is we will be HOME! So I will be surrounded by family to help Avan and I!

Week 28 - 06/28 - 07/04/2009

2009-07-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

So nice getting back to a routine for Avan. I think he missed his home. We had 6 month shots and check-up on the 1st. Avan is 16lbs and 4ozs and 26.5 inches big! His doc was very happy with everything. She told us Avan has excelled in all of his milestones. She was happy at how lean he was and growing nicely. She also was thrilled to learn I was still nursing him. It is awesome, Avan has become so efficient, he nurses 3 mins each side and is done! I couldn't imagine it any better or easier! On Thursday we went to our friends Becky and Ian's house for 80's night! It was so much fun! I crimpped my hair and she did the big bangs thing! On Friday Becky and I picked out fabric for Slings!!! I picked out planets and space for Avan. Should be super cute! Avan is such a sling baby! On Saturday we celebrated Avan's first 4th Of July! We went to our friends house for a bbq, the Marinos. We enjoyed a typical fourth, board games, shooting a pellet gun and tons of food. I made a Chocolate Cream Pie to enjoy. Then we all went to see a big firework show on the James River. It was wonderful! Avan loved seeing the show, stayed awake for it even! Overall it was a very nice Fourth of July.

Week 27 - 06/21 - 06/27/2009

2009-07-06T09:13:00.000-07:00

Daddy's First Father's Day!!!!! We enjoyed a day of celebration! Daddy got a nice drill and tool set from Mommy! Avan made a giggling card for daddy! So cute! We also got to see Great Grandma Meme! We took a ton of pictures! Sadly though, we had to get back home. The car rides home were a tad shaky. After an hour on the road we ended up in a stand still accident. About 2 mins prior to us pulling up there had been a bad accident, no police or ambulances had arrived yet. We saw a lifelite helicopter land on the freeway and knew it was bad and we would be there awhile. So, we chose to get out and stretch. We walked Macy around and also got Avan out of his carseat. It was a nice little rest. The following day we chose to drive straight through instead of getting a hotel. After a 12 hour day, Avan had enough, he did not want to go any further. So, we stopped at a gas station...which I guess had been shut down prior...it had no lights and looked straight out of "the hills have eyes" or something. I nursed Avan some and played so he was more calm. Once we stopped he was much happier. He went to sleep and slept the rest of the way home. It was great to get home! Home sweet home!!!!!

Week 26 - 06/15 - 06/20/2009

2009-07-06T09:06:00.000-07:00

We got up semi-early so we could get on the road. Avan's first roadtrip to Texas to see Grandpa and Grandma! Avan did amazing on the drive! He really liked that Mommy sat in the back with him. We mostly listened to this mirror thing that sang. It was loud and abnoxious, yet the boy loved it and fell asleep easily to it! Whatever works! We arrived in TX on the 16th. Avan also had a little pool waiting for him. He enjoyed playing with the dogs, Rusty and Macy and of course the little pup, Sweetie. Sadly though, Avan got a fever the second day we arrived, we are guessing from the plane. We took him into the Mt Pleasent ER on the 19th. He had to have blood taken, which was awful. They stuck his foot and dripped blood into 2 vials. So sad. We did learn he had low levels and showed it was indeed a virus. We battled it with Motrin and Tylenol, which knocked him out. He was so sleepy and icky feeling, poor guy. A couple of nights we did bathtime outside in a cool pool. It really helped with the high fever. Saturday Avan turned 6 months old! I can't believe my big boy is already 6 months!!! So exciting! I wonder what the next 6 months will bring!

Week 25 - 06/07 - 06/13/09

2009-07-06T09:01:00.001-07:00

This whole week we were still in WA. Avan met Great Grandma Jeanne for the first time, on Sunday the 7th. We also enjoyed hanging out and relaxing. Avan then surprised us all by sitting on his own on June 9th for my good friend Jen. It was wonderful. We played with the kids, ate good food and scrapbooked. Mommy is finally starting to do Avan's scrapbook. Only have gotten 2 pages done so far, but boy are they cute! It was so funny looking back at how big my belly was! Goodness I was huge! I can't believe Avan is out of my tummy and learning everything! We are guessing it won't be long before he crawls everywhere! On Saturday the 13th we flew back to VA. Avan did really well again. The same family was on the flight and called Avan, "an angel baby" because they remembered how quiet and well-behaved he had been. So cute! It was late getting back home, not until nearly 1am the next day. But it was worth it to get on the road in the moring to TX!

Week 24 - 05/31 - 06/06/2009

2009-07-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

The Month of June begins! I can't believe this month my little man will be 6 months old! We mostly were busy all week packing and preparing for our 20-day vacation! Friday June 5th Avan aboarded his first plane. We flew from VA to North Carolina for an hour flight and then flew from NC to WA for a 5.5 hour flight. He did AMAZING! People loved him. At the airport he was giggling and cooing, loudly. Once on the plane it is like he knew to be quiet or something, he just smiled. We did have a toddler crying the whole 5.5 hour flight to WA. But Avan didn't he just was happy. He nursed, played and slept over and over again. We sat next to an Grandpa who had his family in the seats across the aisle. He was so nice and loved Avan. It was a great flight! Once we arrived in WA we got our awesome 08 Explorer. We drove to Brandy's! It was great! Nana was even there to greet Avan. After an hour we then drove to Seattle to go see Avan's first baseball game, the Mariner's. Amazing how well we all did after being up more then 24-hours! Avan was so happy and just got passed around to everyone at the game. Overall it was a wonderful busy day!!! June 6th we met up with a couple of the BBC girls! It was wonderful meeting Sydnie and Stephanie with their little girls, Hudson and Amelia. Since we have all 3 followed along with our pregnancies and births, it was great to finally meet in person. We enjoyed the Woodland Park Zoo and seeing all the animals. Avan of course slept through a lot of it! Hopefully, by next year he will really understand the animals and enjoy it even more. Although, once in the gift shop, I gave Avan a few toys to choose from. He fell in love with an Otter, named Baby Otto....just like his older cousin!

Week 23 - 05/24 - 05/30/2009

2009-07-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

This week Avan tried pears for the first time! He isn't completely sold on them. Boy does he prefer the veggies! Finally, rolled from his back to his belly! So now he rolls EVERYWHERE!!! I think it may be time to start child-proofing very soon! He also loves to play with his feet! He grabs his toes and put them in his mouth! It is amazing what is more fun to play with then all of the toys we buy. Remotes, his feet, and the dog, hahaha! Cute little boy! One more week until Avan's first airplane ride and Baby Tour 2009 begins!!!!

Week 22 - 05/17 - 05/23/2009

2009-05-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

Avan tried bananas on the 19th and thought they were okay! He much rather have his green veggies, silly boy! Maybe that is why he is such a big boy at 5 months old!!! He even held his own bottle while eating on the 21st. Just for a few seconds, I usually keep the bottle with some juice to wash down any food. I have also tested out his sippy cup. So that was super cute! Then Saturday we played at the pool! He didn't hate it! He actually giggled a little when Nick splashed him! He is continuing to giggle like crazy and play more. In his saucer he can turn in full circles to play with the toy he wants! He loves to play the "I am going to bite your hands" game. He sticks his hands near our mouths and we pretend bite. He LOVES it and giggles and giggles! His littler personality is shining through. He is so goofy! He also is grabbing Macy now. That will be interesting to watch as he gets bigger and she stays the same size!

Week 21 - 05/10 - 05/16/2009

2009-05-27T15:20:00.000-07:00

On the 10th I made sweet potatoes and apples for Avan. He tried the sweet potatoes on Sunday and wednesday the apples. We are learning he doesn't really care foor fruits as much. Sweet potatoes are okay but still his favorite is avocodos! Saturday we tried out some organic gerber green beans and he really enjoyed those too! My good little boy, all about those veggies! We are starting to also offer him an oz of juice with 3 ozs of water. Just to play around with after his meals. It is really amazing how fast he is growing and the things he is learning each day! He is getting better with sleep. He is now sleeping for a 4 hour stretch and then every 3 hours at night. So eating 2-3 times. It is much better then the every hour!!! Mommy is starting to get some rest again!

Week 20 - 05/03 - 05/09/2009

2009-05-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

This week was a busy week! Since we picked up the high chair on Saturday we chose to start solids. I know originally we wanted to wait but eating every hour day and night for 2 weeks was a bit much. Since his ped approved it at 4 months, we went ahead and tried. We first gave him a spoon to play with and he didn't seem to want that for much long. Then we tried breastmilk on the spoon, he ate about every other bite or so. Then once he seemed to master that we started Cereal. I found the coolest website from the blog girls on making my own food. So I made the brown rice cereal! We tried that on Sunday the 3rd. He loved it! On the 6th we made avocodos and oh my, that is by far his favorite thing ever! He gobbled it right up. Daddy couldn't give it faster! I assumed he would enjoy it, I did eat avocodos daily while pregnant! We then noticed he is fully grasping toys and such this week! It is wonderful!!! Everyday he learns something new! I love making the food! I make what ever it is in a big batch and freeze it into these ice cube trays with lids. They measure 1 oz cubes. Once frozen I pop them out and put them in ziploc bags and date them! Then for each meal he can get a cube or two! Wonderful and easy! Very nutrtious and I know exactly what he is getting!

Week 19 - 04/26 - 05/02/2009

2009-05-27T12:35:00.000-07:00

Avan had done great for this month. He is laughing more and more. He talks all the time. He loves playing with Daddy and Mommy. Anything, singing, peek-a-boo, and the TV. He loves the saucer, just having tummy time and watching Macy. Although we were low-key. I had back blocks put in because I have 2 bulged discs and a disc that is starting to herniate. I am shocked that is what the MRI showed. But this means really taking it easy with Avan. One bad move and I am in the OR and that is no good. It is great we are co-sleeping as the lifting from the crib is no good! At the end of the week we went out and got a high chair for Avan! It matches his carseat, the chicco brand. It was rated pretty good in safety! Avan had a lot of fun playing with his spoons and toys while we ate dinner!

Week 18 - 04/19 - 04/25/2009

2009-05-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday the 19th Avan found his thumb! Oh my it is soo cute! He is also a wopping 4 months old! He had his 4-month check up on the 21st. He weighed in at 14lbs and 5ozs, 25 inches big! Nick went because I couldn't handle another horrible cry like last time. Avan didn't have one tear, which I am so pleased with, but seriously, why did he freak the first time and not for these ones! Just relieved he still did not react to the vaccines! Makes me feel so much better about it. Doctor suggested starting solids and that he is growing great! She did say he has a small flat spot and to try and get him to not lay on that side, but it isn't going to happen. He loves laying on his right side. We do lay him flat once he falls asleep but he still rolls to the right. He likes to cuddle me in bed, hehe! Co-sleeping has been wonderful. At first it was just after his first wake-up. Then Avan started waking every hour, so we just thought it would be best to get more sleep if he just went to bed with us. It has worked out great!

Week 17 - 04/12 - 04/18/2009

2009-05-27T11:36:00.001-07:00

Easter was wonderful! We went over to Becky and Ian's house to enjoy BBQ. Avan got all dressed up in his Vest and pants! Soo cute! He also got Easter Bunny goodies of a sippy cup, bowls, spoons, several teething rings and also some new pacis. Granpa and Grandma got him a cute summer outfit that is UT. It will fit perfectly for our visit in June! On the 16th you were doing tummytime and actually went up on your knees! I was amazed! I can't beleive how strong you are! We got you your first big boy toy, an Exersaucer on the 17th! You LOVE it! It has all sorts of toys that sing and light up! It is so much fun to watch his face as he plays and gets excited!

Week 16 - 04/05 - 04/11/2009

2009-05-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

We went shopping for his Easter basket stuff. We plan to do solids stuff. Like spoons and teethers. We thought that would be somewhat fun since it is coming closer to that. He is continuing to use his hands so much! He thinks he can fit his whole fists in his mouth both at the same time! Now that he is using his hands more we are wondering if he will be a lefty like mommy or a rightly like daddy. We shall see!

Week 15 - 03/31 - 04/04/2009

2009-05-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

On the last day in March he completely rolled over from his tummy to his back! It scared him at first but then he got used to it! It seems Avan has forgotten all about STTN. He is waking up every 2 hours or even more! I am guessing he is more hungry, maybe a growth spurt. We are really hoping to wait until 6 months for solids, but we may not. It depends on what Avan thinks. On the 3rd Nana sent Avan an Easter basket. Inside a personalized tin was candy (for us) then he also got this purple bunny that sings. He FREAKED out completely. The video I got was priceless, he hates it! I felt so bad squeezing it a second time, but I had to show Nick his response to it. He just pouts and puckers for a while and then hollars! On the 4th we went and saw the Easter Bunny! He was soo tired. He was awake but then the Easter Bunny had gone on a "carrot break" so but the time he returned Avan was ready to fall asleep. The picture did turn out cute though. We weren't sure how he would react. I thought because of Nana's bunny that quite possibly he would freak out. But the bunny came right up to him and touched his cheek and he just looked at him. So it turned out great!

Week 14 - 03/22 - 03/28/2009

2009-05-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

On the 23rd Avan found his hands! It was soo cute! They are in his mouth constantly. He is still working on grabbing things. But I know that will be soon! Boy he still hates the swing. We keep testing him out in it. But it is a no go everytime! We play patty cake and he giggles and giggles! He also LOVES the tv! He likes the colors and movements! It is supercute to watch! Tummytime is so much better! I think he will be rolling very soon!!!

Week 13 - 03/15 - 03/21-2009

2009-05-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

My big boy is now 3 months old! I cannot believe it! Avan is starting to like the bath. He kicks his legs a little and realizes it is nice and warm. Maybe we can soon bring toys in! He talks to the frogs and turtles that hang from the mobile in his crib. He even is noticing the toys on his bouncer. I know one day he will be reaching for those soon! He is starting to hate the carseat if he is awake. If it is in the car he is fine, but if we are out and about, we put him in the sling instead! Works much better! He really enjoys the sling, it is his own room as Nick puts it. He also loves when I sing, he kicks with excitement! Super cute! Still STTN and I swear everyday I wonder when he won't anymore, haha. I know a growth spurt will be coming soon!

Week 12 - 03/8 - 03/14/2009

2009-05-27T11:12:00.000-07:00

Avan is babbling more and more! He eats so much and has become quite an efficent nurser! It used to take 45mins to feed his belly. Now we are done in 10 mins! He seems to take a 45min nap in the morning and a 3 hour nap in the afternoon! He really likes the sling. I have gotten the hang of it and he naps in there great! Tummy time has gotten so much better. He even fell asleep on the boppy the other day! It was so cute!

Week 11 - 03/01 - 03/07/2009

2009-05-27T10:56:00.000-07:00

Avan had is first big daddy day on the 1st. For my Birthday I had a complete spa package. I got an hour massage, a 45-minute facial, a fancy lunch, spa pedi and mani! It was wonderful and pampering. Nick enjoyed a man movie and hot wings with his friend Tommy while they took care of Avan. Avan did great, ate his bottles up and took naps! I got home and was completely rejuvanated! On March 2nd we had our first snow day with Avan. I don't think he enjoyed it but he didn't cry either. We dressed him in a snowsuit we got from Becky and took a ton of pictures. It was so much fun! We hope next year he enjoys it more! On March 4th we went to the doctor, Avan and I. He had his 2 month check up. He weighed in at 12lbs and 13ozs and 23 3/4 inches big! The nurse tech was shocked at how he just sat there in my arms. Avan's head control I guess is awesome for his age. The tech also commented on how happy he was. In the ped office all you hear is crying little ones. When we saw the ped she was very pleased at Avan's progress. She examined him and talked to him, then he cooed and talked back. She told him he was a 2-month old acting like a 4-month old. That made me feel wonderful! I didn't realize he was ahead at all. She suggested we do tummytime on our chests just until he gets used to it. Then to use the boppy. For the shots it was awful! I cried right along with him. Avan cried louder then I had ever heard him before, it was awful! I don't want to ever hear that cry again. He was soo mad! Thankfully he didn't run a fever or have any reactions! He got 3 shots which included one that is taken orally. Saturday the 7th we had another date night. Ms Linda took him for a few hours. We went to my favorite The Melting Pot! YUMMY! It was so romantic and quiet. Afterwards, we decided to go to Sam's Club. Wow it was soo nice to relax in a store and not rush. Not that Avan isn't good, but sometimes it seems a tad stressful. It was great! We picked up his wipes and diapers and then went to get him. Ms Linda enjoyed having him and playing! It was a wonderful week!!!

Week 10 - 02/22 - 02/28/2009

2009-05-27T08:59:00.001-07:00

I can't belive February is already over! The time has flown since Avan has been born! We got a tummytime aquarium mat thing. Avan seems to like it, it has a mirror and nosiy toys. He is starting to be okay with the swing when awake and is able to see the mobile move around. He also found his tongue! Whoever thought that would be the cutest thing ever! I am amazed at what babies learn. I guess you never think about finding your tongue as a milestone, hehe! So cute though!

Week 9 - 02/15 - 02/21/2009

2009-05-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

Month 2, oh my goodness, what a big boy!!! We went to the Picture People and had our first family photos done! Avan was soo cute, he even smiled in one! He was sound asleep when we drove there. Once we were there he just opened his eyes and seemed to be calm. Then once pictures were over he went right back to sleep. It is like he knew what he needed to do! It was amazing! He is still STTN! I cannot believe it! On the 19th I woke up to hearing cooing and giggling! I was shocked, usually I hear a fussy boy wanting some milk. I went in his nursery and he was just so happy and talking away to the mobile of frogs and turtles! We had another date night and it was perfect! We went and saw a movie why Becky and Ian took care of Avan. It was nice to get out just the two of us. Avan did really well for them. I was worried because it was his rough time of day. He seems to like to nurse non-stop starting at 4pm. But he did great! Time to make Avan's 2-month check up! I wonder how big he is! I am dreading the shots though!

Week 8 - 02/08 - 02/14/2009

2009-05-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how blessed we are, Avan still is sleeping through the night! It amazes me. Everywhere you read and hear it says breastfed babies don't STTN until much later. I guess he is a random little boy! I feel so blessed! I had my first big Mommy me day and got my hair done! Nick had daddy duty for 3 hours! It was wonderful! We also celebrated our 1st Valentine's day as parents! Avan was so cute in his little red outfit. Even smiled and showed off his small dimple! He was so happy that day! Nick went out and got Outback so that we could enjoy it all in the comfort of our home. It was much more peaceful then trying to wait for a table somewhere with a newborn. Very romantic! Avan is starting to find his voice, he coos and talks. In the morning I talk to him and he talks back, it is super cute. He is still obsessed with his bouncer chair that vibrates, I don't know what we will do when he is too big for it! Tummy time is still somewhat of a challenge. They say to give them 15 minutes daily, but Avan wants nothing of that. I hope it will get better so he can learn to roll and such!

Week 7 - 02/01 - 02/07/2009

2009-05-27T08:40:00.001-07:00

February is here! Starting the 2nd you have STTN nightly! Avan goes to bed at 7:30pm and doesn't stir until 6am to eat! If I go out to the store or something Avan takes a full 6ozs of breastmilk. It amazes me. Such a big boy! Avan eats every 2 hours all day long and still does the cluster feeding, only from 4pm until bedtime now. I am fine with it because this means I get to sleep long! It is wonderful! He is just growing and growing! We are catching more smiles and are learning he is quite happy as long as he is fed, changed and has long sleeps! Being a mother is way more wonderful then I could have ever imagined!

Week 6 - 01/25 - 01/31/2009

2009-05-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

On the 25th you managed to STTN again! Such a great little boy for Mommy! It is like he knows I need sleep! Nothing else has changed much. Avan really dislikes the swing. I mean he just cries in it. He has also started a new thing in the evening. From 7pm until 11pm he eats every hour at least. I hear it is called cluster feeding and they do this during growth spurts. I also think he does it because he wants to be nice and full before his long sleep. He also does this grunt noise in his sleep, really funny!!!

Week 5 - 01/18 - 01/24/2009

2009-05-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Avan turned a whole month this week. I cannot believe a whole month has passed by. He is sleeping in 4-5 hour stretches which means we get more rest. We are so blessed. I feel wonderful now that my sleep is nice and caught up! Nursing is going so well! I originally thought I would nurse just a month and go back on my meds. But quickly changed my mind the more I researched it and saw news articles on rocket fuel in formula. They won't even give the brand names. Right there means I plan to nurse only and give zero formula!!! Just freaks me out. I hope I can continue to feel great in my head so that I don't have to go on meds! Avan still likes to make mmhm mmmhm noises while he nurses. It is so cute! He also holds the boob as though it is a bottle, super cute! He is starting to look at his mobile and smiles more and more! He also has great head control, which is surprising everyone, including doctors!

Week 4 - 01/11 -01/17/2009

2009-05-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

Such a great week! Avan, Grandma and I went to the mall together and just enjoyed walking around and looking at books. Avan did great! The only time he fussed was when we went through Macy's....the floor is nice and smooth. He prefers bumps! Go figure it is my favorite store and he fusses in there, haha! On the 15th Grandma gave Avan a bath. It was so cute, he hardly fussed. He is getting better at bathtime. He still hates to be cold though, just like mommy! When he is trying to go to sleep we crank the heat and out he goes! Amazing! January 16th is the last day Grandma will be here, so she offered to babysit so that Nick and I could have a date night. It was wonderful. We went to Friday's because we had been watching this show on Food Network and the winner's dish was at Friday's. Afterwards we went to Target to look at swings for Avan. Funny, I really missed him and we were only gone an hour and a half. It is just hard to leave him, especially since he was in my tummy everyday for 8 months! I am soo attached to him. Once we got home, Nick put together the swing and we tested it out. Avan didn't seem to really enjoy it. Many people told us that as he gets bigger he will like it, so we will see. That night Avan had a really hard time going to sleep. So Nick took him in his nursery so that I could rest and he rocked him. Well after rocking him he thought to lay him in his crib....since he napped in there nicely during the day. Oh my goodness, he slept through the night in there. I woke up in such a panic! We think it is because it is so toasty in his room. So I guess we will start the crib more often, so sad. I like having him close to me. On January 17th, Nick's mom left. It is so hard having family live so far away. We do have a plan thought to see her in the Spring again. Along with everyone else!

Grandma playing with Avan!

Grandma gives Avan his second bottle!

Such little cute feet!

Avan going into his "milk coma"

Grandma gets to be Avan's first babysitter!

One of the top photos that I just love...so cute! He only has 1 eye open!

Daddy starts building your swing! After our dinner date we went to Target and picked out a swing!

I think you like it!

Week 3 - 01/04-01/10/2009

2009-05-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

It is amazing to love someone so much when you have only seen them through an ultrasound!!! Avan is just perfect! Everyday I smile and just hold him close. He gave me his first real smile on 01/05! I guess most babies smile at mommy first, since they know her voice best. He is just beautiful. When we go out so many people come up to us and say how beautiful he is and how they mention other babies are just not that cute. It is really nice! I pumped all week so that Nick's mom can offer him a small bottle. All books say to wait 3 weeks before offering a breastfed baby a bottle. So I want to make sure that happens. I really don't want to ruin breastfeeding since it is really going well. The soreness is starting to ease up and it is just nice to be so close and bonded! On the 10th Nick gave Avan his very first bottle. It was only an oz and then I nursed him after. I chose to do small amounts and then once he doesn't want the breast afterwards, I figure that is how I will know how much he takes. It went great! I was amazed as you read about how baby just plain refuses it. He didn't he took it like a champ and didn't seem affected at all at the difference! It was so cute seeing Nick hold the tiny bottle up to Avan's mouth! So precious!!! I can't believe is is already 3 weeks old!

The Future American Idol

Attempting the very first Tummy Time!

So tiny!

I do all my own stunts!!!!

The Full outfit!

The first Bottle, given by daddy! Avan doesn't mind at all!!!

Week 2 - 12/28-01/03/2009

2009-05-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

Having Nick's mom here has been wonderful. Just visiting and enjoying Nick's leave period. Nick was able to take 2 weeks of leave. On New Year's Eve December 31st we had an appt for Avan. A weight check and just how is everything going type of thing. He weighed in at 7lbs and 11ozs and 21 inches big! Gained a whole pound and an inch! Woohoo! Doc said everything looks good and things are how they are suppose to be! Avan eats every 2-3 hours day and night. He has started to squeak and snort when he gets upset, so precious! He gets really annoyed when he needs to sneeze or yawn, so funny. He also is a noisey eater and makes mmm mmm noises while nursing. He is 100% breastfed now. Just the formula those first few hours. So glad we are done with that! Before leaving the hospital I learned the tricks to tightly swaddling, which Avan prefers. He likes to be nice and snug. On New Year's Day Avan's umbilical cord fell off, which means bathtime! We gave him his first real bath on the 2nd, which he HATED! He screammed the whole time! I felt awful, but wow is it good to get him nice and clean! Smells so nice and fresh! We all are sleeping pretty good. Still getting adjusted to waking every few hours and nursing, which is quite painful. But luckily the Lacation Consultant gave me these amazing gel pads that help me heal quickly. Grandma is enjoying burping and folding itty bitty clothes! So cute!

Aww Nick looks like a natural at being Daddy to Avan!

Thanks Jessica for the Secret Stork gifts! LOVE the monkeys!

Every baby needs some Mickey Mouse! Thanks Latronda and Jordan for the wonderful gifts for both Avan and I!!!! Extra diapers and pedi set is always a must for a mommy!

Studying Grandma so much!

Ready for my 2-Week Check up! December 31st! I weighed in at 7lbs and 11ozs!!! 21 inches big! Getting bigger already!

New Years Eve checking out the Newport News Park for the wonderful light show!

Avan exactly at Midnight :)

Grandma got me all ready for New Years!

Avan's real first bath! January 2nd!!! The day after his umbilical cord fell off! Boy did he HATE every moment of the bath!

Daddy took over and cuddled me up till I fell asleep!

A great picture after a big feeding! Avan sleeps wonderfully after getting a full tummy! I can see him fattening up in this picture!

Week 1- 12/20-12/27-2008

2009-05-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

December 20th was of course written already....but a few more tidbits. The evening that Avan was born had many ups and downs. As he had some blood sugar problems. I ended up having to give him 3 doses of formula, which was considered medicine. The Dr. was awesome. She also was in the room with me most of the night because as a new mommy, I didn't have a clue as to what we were doing or how to latch properly. On another note, while changing his very first diaper Daddy decided that he would do it.....although quickly changed his mind. Hehe! Poor guy, never heard of the first baby poos as being pretty sticky! Well, Avan also peed all over me! The first few days in the hospital it seemed that Avan NEVER peed in the diaper!!! Oh well, welcome to mommyhood! On the second day, the hospital brought us a nice lunch for welcoming Avan into the World. It was wonderful, got real Sweet Tea and a big piece of Strawberry cheesecake, two things that had been cut from my diet! On Monday, Dec 22nd we finally were being released! Although it took a long time. As Avan had to get his circ and such. We didn't get to leave until nearly 9pm. It was also the coldest night in a long time....19 degrees I believe. So chilly! It was GREAT being home! I had not slept at all being in the hospital for 4 nights. I think being so overwhelemed and being a new mom I felt the need to check on Avan every little bit. Plus waking every 2 hours to make sure he ate because of the blood sugars. And of course learning breastfeeding, we took a long time. Before leaving we did have to make a doctor's appt for 2 days after. So, after being home it was wonderful. Macy just sniffed Avan and was fine with him. We all enjoyed being at home and relaxed. On December 24th we went in for a weight check. Avan weighed in at 6lbs and 11ozs, so not far off from his birth weight. The doc was very pleased and said to continue what we were doing and waking him every 3 hours. By the end of the week we stopped setting our alarm!! We quickly learned that there is no need for it, as Avan wakes to eat when he is hungry! Our 1st Christmas was wonderful! Nick made his very first turkey and fixings! It was so cute! We enjoyed that and just all being home! On Saturday Decemeber 27th, Nick's mom flew in. She met Avan and got tons of Grandma time in. We also got a few gifts, so lovely. Meme, Nick's grandmother had gotten personlized shoes for Avan. Nick's Aunt Beverly gave him a prayer bear and beanie baby boy. Then of course Nick's folks got an outfit and a warm cozy blanket. Avan has gotten so much, it is just amazingly sweet of everyone! So our first week was successful and such a blessing to have Avan home!!

Macy Loves Avan!

The wonderful flowers I got from MIL and FIL!

This was the second day home, Avan and Macy sleeping on Daddy!

Our matching Outfits!

Exhausted Mommy!

First at home Sponge bath, which Avan HATED!

Our Hands, Our baby!!!

Happy Christmas Eve, time to go get a weight check! 6lbs 11ozs!

Merry Christmas (this outfit was given to us by the Wood Family, so sweet)

Ready to meet Grandma!!!

Grandma and Avan meet!

The Birth of Avan (what I posted on BBC)

2009-05-14T09:11:00.000-07:00

So this is my labor and delivery story. Feel free to skim or not read all of it. As it is very long!
So, at 6pm Thursday I called L&D like I was told and they said to be there at 7pm as planned for induction. Well, we arrived a little late because we decided to stop at Chick-Fil-A to eat some dinner...didn't know when my next meal would be. Once we got there they hooked me to monitors and put the cervadil in place. I started having cx pretty quickly, about 6 minutes apart. BTW I was about a fingertip dialated to start with and barely thinned out. So the midwife (Mrs. T) said that is was going to be a long process for me. Later in the night I learned there was another woman there next to me who was going through the same thing, only arrived the day prior, wednesday. Nice to know I was not the only one in the same boat. They gave me something to help me sleep in hopes I could get some good rest. Right, I didn't sleep, not when you are all hooked up with iv's and monitors and the bp thing beeping every 15mins because of high bp! Nick did though, he snored all night long! The next morning a new doctor was on (Dr F), she came in and removed the cervadil and then started pitocin. Still no change in my cervix and she suggested that we try this balloon thing. Bascially, a foley cath shoved up in my cervix and filled with water to push my cervix to dialate to at least 4cms. Well, she was UNSUCCESSFUL with that. OUCH!! So, they just continued to up pitocin. I can tell you I was in PAIN. They hurt badly and I wasn't progressing. It was so disappointing. Also, because of the Pre E the damn bp cuff kept beeping off! In the afternoon the Anesthesiologist came in to talk to me about my epi and back issues and allergies. So, he said he would be back whenever I wanted, doesn't have to be at 3cm or anything. Just whenever I needed it. My doc came and checked me, still no change....but she did offer some stadol. So I had that and tried to rest, keeping my bp somewhat lowered. Around 6pm I learned that they would probably shut off the pitocin and let me sleep that night and restart in the AM. I freaked!!!! I did not plan to be in labor for days on end. I didn't know that was what they did. I disliked the doc suggesting that...by this point another midwife "tried" the balloon thing AGAIN and also stripped membranes, OUCH!!!!!! Hurt so bad I was in tears. So, I was pretty upset. Then the nightshift came on....the nurse was RUDE! Explained that htis is how it goes and "labor is going to be painful." Really no kidding lady! She also kept telling me about how my baby could be only 35 weeks and will be preemie. Um NO read my chart, due date has not changed once. Plus I was diagnosed for 2 complications!!! So annoying, well after bumping heads for a few hours, I ended up with a new nurse, looks like she got tired of me! The new nurse was great, she helped me to breathe through cx and relax some. Also, the midwfe decided that they would stop the pit and let me eat and get up and walk around. Thinking this would help my frame of mind. It DID!! I felt so much better and my blood sugars were a lot better. I enjoyed a yummy dinner of Chicken Nuggets and fries! Oh and I also had a regular soda! It really sucked being 30+ hours in bed, strapped because of fetal monitoring and IV stuff. So, it changed my mood. Again they gave me something for sleep and I tried to rest. Nope, no such luck! The next AM I was dreading, knowing there would be no change because I had no cx. Well boy Saturday was AWESOME! When the day shift midwife (Mrs N)came in to meet me she said, "we are having this baby today!" She checked me, nope no change, then she would do the balloon thing and start the pit again. Finally somebody was successful with that thing! She also said I could get my epi! It was either the epi to help with my bp or the magnesium for the high bp! Praise the Lord! YES! So at 8amish I got my epi. This sucked! The balloon caused so many CX and tons of pain! BUt it made me dialate quickly. At about noon my midwife came in to see if the balloon was ready to come out, meaning I would be at 4cm! Sure enough, I was at 4cm and they broke my water. By 2pm the nurse told me she thought I was complete, just a hunch of hers. She went and got the midwife so that she could check. I was having some pressure and a little uncomfortable. I honestly did not believe I was complete, only because I had been disappointed so many other times. I was about 9 and half cms dialated! WOOHOOO! So, I only had a little bit more time to wait to see my baby boy. Nick and I started getting very anxious; we couldn't believe this was going to happen soon! So the nurse and midwife left and said they would be back very soon, to call if I felt pressure. So, about 20mins or so go by and I started feeling different. I told Nick to go get the midwife and nurse....his response was of course, they will be back....and I then say, NO go get them! He went out and got them, the midwife started running for our room! Sure enough, I was ready to push!!! Once I started pushing it went very quickly. The midwife was awesome! I only pushed for about an hour! I did have some moments where I had to pause because of getting sick, but the anthes. came and got me some antinausua stuff to help battle that! Once Avan crowned and his head was out, the midwife asked if Nick wanted to deliver his shoulders and put him on my chest. A wonderful story to share between father and son for years to come! Nick was surprised and shocked (plus he is normaly squemish) He was the one to deliver our son onto my chest! So, within an hour of pushing, Avan Keith was born, at 3:17pm. He weighed in at 7lbs and 1oz and was 20inches long. They let him lay on me for about 5 mins or so and then took him to the warmer. Avan only gave out one scream, and then was quiet. He is a very good self soother, we are learning. Avan didn't cry, they tried to do things, even the vitamin K shot didn't make him upset. They checked and rechecked his lungs, they sounded awesome! He just didn't want to cry. So after a few bad days we were blessed with a wonderful delivery! It was a lot better then what I Had imagined the days prior.

Now that the delivery story is over, I would like to share with you are bumps in the road. Because I had the GD, Avan had to have 4 total blood sugars. The first right after birth, and then 3 ones right before he eats. He had to stay above 40. If any of them were under then he would be stuck more. He had to have 3 good ones in a row to be cleared. Well, his sugars were below 40. So, the first night was rough. I had to get his blood sugar once he was going to eat. Next I bfed him. Then a half hour after eating we checked his blood sugar again. If it was still low I had to supplement with self expressed colustrumn and then with formula(my worst nightmare). Luckily, the doc (Dr L) that was on nightshift, rocked!!! she knew how disappointed I had been about having to supplement. She had us fee him the formula through a syringe and also another device that was like a straw that he sucked on next to my finger at the same time. This way he didn't get used to any other way other then nursing. Of course once the formula was given it would be time to start the whole process over again!!!! I had to wake him every 2 hours to eat and it took just as long to get him fed. We were both exhasuted and he didn't want to eat, he wasn't hungry. Either way it was only the first night that happened. He finally had great blood sugars and only required the formula 3 times. So, glad that he didn't have to be put on an IV or anything. There had been discussion of this. So, now I can eat whatever I want and Avan can be exclusively breastfed!

Time for some pictures!

Ready to get this whole Induction process going!!

Finally relief from 2 days of laboring!

Feeling okay, just waiting for dialation and having this baby in my arms instead of tummy!

Oh my at 9 cms....any moment now I can start pushing!!!

The very first picture taken of Avan!

Giving him some O2 because he seemed to not be crying....because he is my calm boy!

Look at that face, has daddy's chin!

All Bundled up and ready to see mommy!

He weighed in at 7lbs and 1 oz...20 inches big!

Love at first sight!

Holding Avan some more! So in love with him!

I just wanted a good look at him!

Isn't he perfect!!!!

Okay Daddy needs a turn!

Family Picture!

Hands are always in his face!

One of my favorite pictures!

His crib card!

Getting Ready to go home! His first little outfit!

Time to go home and see your Nursery Avan!

Let's Go!

December 21st, 22nd and 23rd Quotes from BBC Girls!

2009-05-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

December 21st

Welcome Baby Avan!! Congrats Rian!!
~Lee

Congratulations Rian!!
~Lisa

Congratulations Rian and welcome Avan! :)
~Emma

December 22nd

Hey Ladies,
Thanks for all of the encouragement! I promise I will write up our birth story and details tomarrow! Just wanted to post a pic real quick! Off for a long hot shower and some rest! Take care and Thanks again to all of you! Can't wait to catch and and see what all babies are here and progresison on the rest of ya! Rian

So glad to hear you guys are home! Try and get some rest! BTW he's beautiful!
~Jess

Congrats again Rian!! Get some rest! Take Care!
~Leslie

Hooray! Love the pics, and so glad you're home and safe! Get some rest!
~Ang

Welcome Home!!! Love the pics, he is beautiful....wishing you a Merry Christmas with your new family!!!
~Lee

Rian! He is just adorable! I can't wait to hear his story! His pictures are just too cute! I'm glad you both are doing well.
~Kayla

December 23rd

Congrats Rian, and thanks for adding profile pics, Avan is just as cute as can be! Glad you are both home and doing well.
~Stephanie

Congrats Rian, of course he's beautiful...get some rest!!!
~Angel

Welcome Home Rian!
~Meri

What a beautiful little boy!!! You all look so happy!!
~Kristen

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Can't wait to hear all about your birth story! What a cutie!
~Leslie

YAY! Glad you are all home! Love the pics! Avan is such a cutie!!
~Stephanie S

Awe Rian he's soo cute!!! Congrats and welcome Home!!
~Shelly

December 20th Quotes from the BBC Girls

2009-05-13T10:01:00.001-07:00

December 20th, 2008

Any more news??
~Lee

Haven't gotten any text from her. Off to dancing school in a few with DD will report back once we are home if I hear anything!!
~Danielle

Poor Rian, I know what she is going through. When I had Ethan we checked in at 0 cm on Monday and I was barely a fingertip by Wednesday morning with 2 nights of cervadil and a full day on pit. I think the midwife was able to break my water at 1 cm and that finally got things going. Tell her to hang in there for a vag birth if she really wants one. The "staged labor" can be typical for 1st time moms. I think some Dr's get impatient and opt for c-sections quickly. Huge dialation and CTRX vibes to Rian.
~Katie

Oh My, This is the longest labor ever! Rian I hope you are hanging in there okay!!
~Meri

She just got her Epi, and they broke her water at 5am!!
~Natalie P

Poor Rian!! Sending lots of CX vibes!!!! Common' Avan!!!!!!
~Nayla

Just got an update "almost 9 cm, so within an hour"
~Natalie P

ROCK ON!!!!! GO RIAN AND AVAN!!!! SO exciting....here comes the water works!!!!
~Katie

Yeah Rian!!!! May the pushing Gods be with you!!! LOL
~Lee

Yay Rian! Thanks for the update---can't wait to meet baby Avan!!
~Stephanie

GO RIAN!!!! Kaite, I am right there with you. I totally started choking back the tears when I read her last update!
~Jessica

GO RIAN!!!!!!!!!COMMON AVAN!!!!
~Nayla

Avan is here!!! 731lbs 20inches
~Natalie P

YAY!!! Congrats Rian!!!!! Hope all is well, glad its finally over for you!!! Can't wait to hear all the details!!!
XXX-OOO Leslie

GREAT NEWS! Finally! Welcome to the world Avan!
~Ang

YAY Rian, finally...can't wait to see the lil prince
~Angel

Yeah!! Congrats Rian and baby Avan!!
~Shelly

Congrats! Can't wait to see baby Avan!!
~Jess

Any word?? I'm so excited!!!
~Heather

OMG....I'm such a wimp....I cry each time someone has a baby!! Congrats Rian and AVAN!!! Can't wait for pics!!!
~Katie

I seemed to have missed a whole page with my last post -- oops! Congrats Rian!!
~Heather

YAY!!! Congrats Rian, welcome to this world Avan - can't wait to see pics!!!!
~Kayla

Congratulations Rian!! Welcome Avan!!!
~Stephanie S

Congrats Rian! Welcome Avan!
~Stephanie

Can't wait to hear details. Congrats Rian! Welcome Avan!
~Michele

Congratulations Rian and Avan!!!!!! Natalie you did an awesome job with the play by play!
~Marisa

CONGRATS RIAN - WELCOME AVAN!!!! Can't wait to hear the details and see pics!!!
~Danielle

Welcome to the world baby Avan!
~Kristen

December 19th Quotes from the BBC Girls!

2009-05-13T09:53:00.001-07:00

12/19/2008

"cx are 6 min apart. Had cervadil last nite. Now starting pitocin. I'll keep you updated!"
~Natalie P.

Haha you beat me to it!!! I was just about to post
~Jess

She also told me she was only dia. a fingertip at 8:30 eastern time. So we all have to send cervix opening vibes!!!
~Natalie P.

Okay so I just talked to Rian again- still just 1 cm and cx are 3min apart but "tolerable" her pitocin is already at 18 (max of 40) she is pretty bored and was off to get some rest. She did say that they might turn off the pitocin tonight if she hasn't made very much progression. So girls we need to rally for her and send some good CX and dialation vibes!!
~Natalie P

Hope Avan comes soon!!!
~Gena

Thanks for the updates Natalie - thinking of Rian, hope the contrax actually start working for her soon!
~Emma

Girls- thanks for updating - just go in from being out since 10:30 this morning - she did text me but I let her know I was out and about. COME AVAN COME!!!
~Danielle

Thanks for updating us!! Dialation vibes her way...
~Lee

Poor Rian~She has shown no progression! They took her off the monitors and pit for an hour.
~Natalie P

I'm Sending ctx vibes her way! I so hope she gets her vg birth.
~Marisa

December 18th 2008

2009-05-13T09:46:00.000-07:00

OMG....what a morning! At 8:30am I got a call from Major Hackett....my urine collection came back...I officially have Pre E! I was told to come in later that evening to be induced at 7pm! They no longer want me to wait! So....I called Nick at work, frantic! Everyone was around him assuming I had gone into labor....but he calmly said nope, but she will be tonight! So he got to be home early for the day. Instead of stressing all day I baked!!! I made fudge, chocolate cheesecake peppermint bars and some cookies! It kept me busy for the most part! Then at 6:30pm we started the drive, but realized we both should eat something first! We stopped at Chick-Fil-A.....I wanted a real sugar regular soda! I enjoyed that and then we ended up being late! Yep LATE to our own induction!!! HAHAHAHA! So funny....Mrs Thomas even left a voicemail asking where I was! So off to L & D we went!

Almost 37 Weeks and ready to deliver

Our Labor and Delivery wake up!

2009-05-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

December 12th, 2008! We had another appt with Major Hackett. My urine collection came back 3 points away from being bad....ugh! Well my bp was high yet again! So I was sent for more blood work and also to do another 24-hour urine collection. She also talked to a few other doctors to see if it was best that I go to L&D to be monitored! So we went upstairs and was hooked up to all monitors. Wow was that frightening! Just being up there and not fully ready....we didn't have the camera packed! So, we were there for an hour or two and then Mrs Thomas came in to u/s Avan. He was looking wonderful on the monitors, hb great and such. My bp dropped some while resting so that was good. Mrs Thomas asked me how tall I was.....Avan was measuring about 7lbs already!!! We still have 3 weeks or so to go! Big boy! She finally was all right with me going back home. Just to make sure I rest rest and rest! Also to do the collection. So we went back home and made sure to pack the camera!

Avan's Nursery all ready for him!

Journal Entry - 12/08/2008

2009-05-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Avan, It's been awhile since journaling. I am no longer working. As you will learn my hips are not great. As you have gotten bigger my hips have had some major problems. I go to PT twice a week to help keep them back in place. Daddy also has taken over EVERYTHING. He does all the chores, and comes home to cook me dinner. I am so blessed to have his help. We are 100% ready for you! Carseat is installed, everything is washed. Even our hospital things are in the car. See last night I had 5 contractions in an hour and daddy was a tiny bit worried. Plus with the GD can cause other complications to deliver early. We see the doc weekly now. Last appt was interesting. My bp was a little high so they had me do a few tests. They are worried about Pre Eclampsia. So, hopefully we find out more about that. YOu are still growing exactly on schedule! Still have a due date of Jan 4th. We hope Grandma makes it there for your Birth day! She flys in on December 27th. So cutting it super close! I hope you make your arrival soon! Last appt I had no dialation or effacement. You are also still high up into my ribs. I guess you are nice and comfy! Today I am 36 weeks and 1 day! Soon you will be here! Love Mommy!

You will be going home in this outfit :)

December 3rd 2008

2009-05-13T09:31:00.000-07:00

Another appt with Major Hackett. Uh Oh...starting to show bad signs......my bp was high. So she sent me for some blood work and also a 24-hour urine collection. I am showing signs of Pre-Eclampsia and this is no good. Just add on the complications, ugh! No wonder I feel miserable! Baby is still on target and doing well. No dialation, nothing. Which is good there are no signs of early labor! But I do worry about complications, I don't want Avan to be affected at all. So we shall see what the results will be next week!

36 Weeks, only 4 weeks to go!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-05-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

November 27th 2008! Today Becky and I started early and made a HUGE 27lb turkey! We spent 3 days of cooking, 1 for appetizers, 1 for desserts and 1 for the big meal! OMG the food was amazing! Blood sugars actually were awesome! WOOHOO, the doc will be thrilled! I did have some major pain by the end of the day though. Nick told me NO MORE COOKING.....so sad. But it makes sense. I really overdid it. But so worth every taste! It was the most perfect holiday we have had in a very long time! So great to have friends over that were like having family here! So wonderful! Thanks again to Nick, Becky, Ian, Ozzy, and their 2 dogs, along with Sean and Terri with their dog Dixie! We all had a blast!!!!

1st appt with Major Hackett

2009-05-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

November 26th, WOOOHOO, I had my first appt with Major Hackett and LOVE her! I explainned all of my frustrations of different opinions on GD and asked if I could just see her for the remainder of my pregnancy. Now that I go in weekly. So that is the plan! She told me I could have a free day for Thanksgiving, but to remember more protiens! We are planning quite a feast for Thanksgiving! So releived to have a free day! She also gave me some meds to help with sleep, as that is starting to affect me. So hopefully I get some much needed rest while Avan finishes growing!

35 Weeks!

Classes

2009-05-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

November 19th we had Breastfeeding class with Kay. She was awesome! Gave us so much information! I am ready to tackle everything. Nick and I decided we would hold off on them giving you the eye ointment until after you nurse. That way you can see clearly. We want you on my belly as soon as possible! That way we can start to bond! November 22nd- Childbirth class. OMG.......someone brought doughnuts, horrible for my GD! But soo good! It was very informational. Helped us learn relaxation techiniques that should help get me through the early parts of labor. So far the plan is to labor at home as long as possible! We also had a tour of the L & D! OMG it was amazing and surreal! We will be there in a few months welcoming Avan into the World. So neat! Looks like they have a ton of private rooms. I sure hope we get one of those! Nurses all seem friendly as well! Overall we both enjoyed all of the classes and hope they will help us get through the few rough spots we may encounter!

Doc Appt

2009-05-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

November 13th, 2008. Today we saw Dr Dimofte. Wow, we had a hard time understanding her accent but she was really good at explaining things. I did get really upset though. She had different views on what is okay to eat. It seems every doctor/midwife has a different view on safe foods for diabetics! This doctor said no to cheese and such and yes to cheerios. Even though Mrs Thomas suggested cheese is more of a protein and would take longer to process. I am sooo annoyed with it all! Every doc says no to something else...pretty soon I am not going to know what I can eat, ugh! Baby is still right on track! PT is really helping so we are continuing that. Next week is our classes, breastfeeding and childbirth!

33 Weeks!

34 Weeks, just 6 weeks to go!

Doc Appt and U/S

2009-05-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

October 30th I had a doctor appt with Mrs. Thomas. She is a diabetic herself. She gave me lots of tips. So far she said I am okay to have my milk and cookies.....unless it affects my sugar levels. I am having issues with Breakfast. As ANY amount of cereal makes them skyrocket! Even cheerios! I miss my cereal and chocolate chip muffins! She told me eggs, lots of eggs! We had another u/s to check on your weight. November 10th. As GD babies tend to be on the large side. You are still growing pretty good. The docs say the baby isn't too large or anything. SO that is good. We got the most perfect picture of Avan's face. He definitly has my cheeks! So chubby and adorable! The plan for the weekend is to wash all of the clothes and sheets. That way everything is ready to go!

31 Weeks, right before Halloween!

Our Pumpkins!

31 Weeks!

Avan's Face at 32 Weeks!

I never did take 32 weeks pictures, boo!!!

Finally The Third Trimester!

2009-05-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

We started the last of the 3 trimesters! Month 7!!! I have finally quit my job after hurting my back. It is just better to rest! We got the travel system, which means we can safely bring home Avan! On a depressing note, I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes on October 22nd. Right before halloween! Go figure! No more cookies and chocolate milk! I have to check my blood sugars 4 times a day, one in the morning before eating and then after each meal! My favorite night time snack! I also was lucky enough to be invited with Stacy to see Carrie Underwood. Avan moved and shimmied all around! It was wonderful!

Because of the GD I had an extra doc appt on the 24th of Ocotober. They showed me how to work the machine thing and check my blood sugars. I also took a nutrtion course to see what would affect my sugars. I hope these last few months go quickly!

28 Weeks! Getting Closer to due date!

29 Weeks! 11 Weeks to go!

30 Weeks

The Carrie Underwood Concert that Avan enjoyed and bounced to!

The cutest outfit I found, Avan and I can match!!

Daddy putting together the Travel System!

Avan's Travel System all ready to go!

Doctor Appt

2009-05-12T09:06:00.001-07:00

September 26th, 2008! We saw Dr Fernades today. I wasn't too happy with her. I had gone to L & D the previous week for my back. I think my hip is out or something. She explained that it was just regular back pain with pregnancy! But she did finally agree to some PT, so hopefully that will help! On the way to the appt I had my first experience with Avan having the hiccups! It was amazing and beautiful! I have read that it means baby is practicing breathing in the womb! That means the baby is closer to being born! I also had to schedule my 1 hour glucose scan. I hope that comes out cleared! Tabitha and I did some major shopping for Avan over the weekend as well! You have got quite a lot of clothes! We should be good to go for the first few months!!

26 Weeks along!

27 Weeks! My new purse from the Fall Festival :)

27 Weeks, our photo fun session!

Months 4 & 5 Of Pregnancy

2009-05-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Everything has gone so well. I crave Mexican, I pick up Taco Bell a few nights week after work. It is so yummy! I still eat a lot of avocodos as well! My belly is getting bigger and bigger! I am at the stage of loving my belly and exciting to watch it grow! The cooler weather is starting to come. Soon enough Fall will be here and then the baby will be here! The nursery is coming along. During these months we painted frogs and turtles and hung those up, along with the Wallpaper border. It sure is adorable! It will be great to have Avan in there! I also got a new glider. Nick's folks paid for half and it is just perfect! It matches the cherry wood of the furniture in the nursery. I have a feeling we will be spending a ton of time rocking the baby to sleep.

24 Weeks!

25 Weeks

The Finished Froggie Chair!

Journal Entry - 08/26/2008

2009-05-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Avan, YAY! We feel you move all the time! Especially at night! Two nights ago daddy put headphones on my tummy! You were moving all around and tons! Then you stopped when we put Alabama, "song of the south" on. Then started wiggling to blink 182 " All the small things". Already following in the footsteps of Daddy with punk rock! We now see you move outside my tummy! So exciting! We learned you have all 4 chambers of the heart, 2 eyes, the lids and everything, 2 kidneys, tummy and a bladder! So exciting! I love seeing you on the screen. Oh all of your brain parts are there too! We also put up the frogs and turtles that we painted and the wall paper! Almost 22 weeks, only 18 weeks to go, YAY!! Love Mommy!

22 Weeks!

23 Weeks!

Dr Appt and Ultrasound!

2009-05-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

August 18th, 2008, we had another appt with Mrs. Thomas. It went well. Just the usual, you are growing perfectly on schedule and your hb is wonderful! Gaining weight great and everything is going so wonderful! I scheduled my 20-week u/s so that we can make sure everything is great. The 3D/4D isn't medical, so they didn't look at anything like that. August 22nd, 2008 we had the big ultrasoud. I was annoyed by it. As the guy wouldn't let me have Nick in the room until the end. I also couldn't see the screen, so it was disppointing. So glad we had the other ultrasound! Once the medical part was all taken care of they brought Nick back and the tech showed Nick and I all 4 chambers of the heart, all of his brain parts. Avan's tummy, kidneys, and hands and feet. The tech even gave us a picture of Avan's profile and of his foot! So that was nice. Everything tested perfectly and size is wonderful!

Avan's Profile!

His little foot!

21 Weeks!

Journal Entry - 08/13/08

2009-05-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Avan, The movements are getting stronger, meaning you are stronger with every kick and punch! I can't stop thinking about you! I'm so excited to be so blessed! We are almost halfway there! 19 weeks and 3 days! I woke up today and saw a cloudy day! Tempatures are cooling down! Fall is on its way! Which means Winter is getting closer! I can't wait to see you! Our neighbor Tabitha left a present for you last night! A robe and slippers to match! It has a frog prince on it! I can't wait till you grow big enough to fit in it! I wonder if you will love spicey food> I can't get enough mexican! So glad we are just about halfway there! Love Mommy

20 Weeks

Journal Entry - 08/05/2008

2009-05-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Avan :)
This past weekend you showed us that you were a boy growing in my tummy! Daddy was so excited! I kept dreaming girls, but you are indeed a boy! I am soo blessed! We bought you soo many new outfits and things! Daddy felt you move for the first time on the 3rd! He thought it was awesome to feel you move!

19 Weeks!

Gender 3D/4D Ultrasound

2009-05-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

August 2nd, 2008! Today was AWESOME! We started it off by going to IHOP for a big breakfast! I had eggs, panacakes, bacon and biscuits with gravy! I cannot control the amount of food I have been eating! You insist on taking it all from me! I drank a ton of water and we went in for our appt. I kept having dreams about decorating a girls nursery, so my guess was a girl. Nick also thought because I felt that, he assumed girl. Well, we got into this big room with a 42" tv and a big twin size mattress! It was super comfy! As soon as she put the thing on my tummy she said, "there is your son, daddy"....A BOY!!!! Daddy was shocked! She then asked if I feel him moving, and I said, " I think so"....she said I probably have been feeling you move for quite some time. I have a placenta that is in a differnt spot. She then let me empty my bladder since you are easy to get to! We spent an hour looking at each feature! We counted the fingers and toes! At one point he had his little hand like he was thinking! It was so perfect! By the end of it, you had had enough! You double flipped us off and kept your face covered! It was amazing and beautiful! Such a high to know the gender! Now on to the shopping! So the name of our child will be Avan Keith Simmons! Avan because daddy just came up with it on his own and Keith after My father and grandfather! Avan is growing right on track and perfectly! I also go a free diaper bag and other goodies. We then spent the rest of the afternoon at Target and bought Reds, Browns and Blues! We had been so tired of shopping for Yellow and Green! After shopping we had an Annv dinner reservation at The Melting Pot. The table was set up with balloons and everything. It was perfect! We couldn't ask for a more wonderful annv! Now to make all of the cards to send off to relatives that say, "It's A Boy"

18 Weeks and going strong!

Journal Entry - 07/29/2008

2009-05-12T06:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby, Soon I will be able to write a name. We are celebrating our 2nd Annv by going to get a 3D/4D ultrasound to see you and find out your gender! We are so excited! I have started to feel you. It is nice knowing you are growing well. My belly is growing great as you grow. 18 Weeks and going strong!

17 Weeks along!

Another Doctor Appt 07/14/2008

2009-05-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today we saw Mrs. Thomas the midwife! She is awesome! So friendly and bubbly! I really like her. You are measuring great and heart rate is great! I am starting to get really bad migraines. We aren't sure if it is the pregnancy hormones or what. She gave me some medicine to see if that helps. My appetite has gotten HUGE! I eat a ton! I still insist on having Avocodos a lot and Taco Bell 3x a week. Horrible I know! I eat 4 items, it is insane! So delcious though! I am growing and growing and I am guessing that means you are too!

Mommy painting Turtles for the nursery!

Daddy painted some too!!!

16 weeks pregnant! I am to the FAT stage, ugh!

July 2nd 2008

2009-05-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

I almost just about passed out today. We are in Texas and we had just had a nice breakfast and got ready. We went out to see the new baby horse. All of a sudden it started getting dark and my ears were ringing. I had to get Nick to help me back to the house. I ended up resting the rest of the day. It was really scary. Not sure what caused it. We had only been outside a short time. The joys of pregnancy! Texas has been wonderful. I am reading a ton as usual and enjoying being pampered! I always feel so rested here! We also got to see a turtle that giggles and a froggy. So cute that Grandpa and Grandma found things that match the nursery!

Nick, Honey and I

14 Weeks!

June 22nd 2008

2009-05-12T06:24:00.000-07:00

Movement!!! I think I felt you! I just felt a tickle sorta in my lower tummy. It was a feeling I have never felt before. Some people say it is too early to feel you, but others say it depends on where the placenta is! So excited! It is amazing that there is a baby in my belly and growing nicely. I also started wearing maternity clothes here and there. My regular clothes don't fit, but the maternity ones are still a little baggy. It will be awesome to fit in them nicely and see you move!

Journal Entry - 06/18/2008

2009-05-12T06:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby! We got to see you 2 days ago!! You measure perfectly! Your heart rate is strong, 166 BPM! I am 11 weeks and 3 days today! This past weekend we celebrated Father's Day by shopping for you! We got your crib which will last you until college. We also got your dresser/changing table! The theme has been changed a little, we added frogs! I am still not gaining, I have lost 8lbs so far!! I am just happy you are still growing and healthy!! We leave for Texas in a little over a week. I wonder what Grandpa and Grandma have purchased for you? They are so excited! I can't wait to meet you! Love Mommy!

An outfit Mommy Picked out!

10 Weeks along

13 Weeks

First Ultra Sound and a Doctor Appt June 16th, 2008

2009-05-12T06:15:00.001-07:00

Today we went and saw Dr Leis. We had an ultrasound as well. OMG you are amazing! So little in there but you have all of your little features. We saw your toes and feet. Your little hands and head. You were moving around so much. We also heard your heartbeat! Nice and fast! Such a beautiful sound! It was truly amazing! Daddy was especially excited! He was hoping to see the gender of you, but no such luck! I was given an official due date of January 4th, 2009, ugh! We will cross that bridge when we get there! We are slowly adding more stuff to your nursery. Daddy put toghether the crib while I took pictures and then I put together the bedding. We didn't wash it yet because it is still a little bit early! But we can soon schedule the 20 week ultrasound to find out. We also have been looking into a 3D/4D ultrasound. Those are amazing and something special to do. There is a place in Virginia Beach that gives you a whole pkg. It would come with a CD and DVD of the whole session. But everything seems to be going well for the pregnancy! WOohoo! So exciting! The doctor seems pleased for the most part. I have lost some weight, but she suggested Ensures to boost me back up! So daddy plans to pick me up some!

We went shopping!!!!!! June 14th, 2008

2009-05-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

Daddy woke up on Father's day June 14th, wanting to go shopping! We can thank President Bush for our stimulas check! So we went out to Burlington Coat Factory where we found the crib set. We decided on Frogs and Turtles! It is PERFECT! The crib is cherry wood and is a 4 and 1. SO it should last until this baby moves out! We got all sorts of things. The crib, changing table, mattress, changing pad, the sheet/comforter set, mobile, wall paper border and some clothes. We picked out also started looking at rocking chairs and gliders. Nick's folks want to purchase that for me. So thoughtful! We are guessing I will be spending lots of time rocking you to sleep. So excited we go in for our first big appt in 2 days!

Month 3 of Pregnancy

2009-05-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

June was a big month of stuff. I am still enjoying Avocodos and I don't think I will ever stop eating them! They are so fatty, I am shocked I am still not gaining! I finally feel better and am over the infections, woohoo! I started wearing maternity clothes! So exciting to watch my self grow! It is amazing! I cannot believe you are real and growing so quickly! We have started shopping for you! We try to get something new every weekend! We know we want everything in order prior to your arrival! So we thought to get started! We got to see you and everything on the u/s machince! Daddy is so cute with all the excitement that is going into this. He loves getting me things that sound good and just pampering me, it is wonderful! I did finally find a toothpaste that works, Dora!! It is bubble gum flavored! Finally one that doesn't make me feel sick! Still no morning sickness yay!!!

Full body of our little baby growing right on schedule!!

Baby's little leg!

First Doctor Appt!

2009-05-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today is May 28th 2008

Today we went in for tons of blood work. I have never seen so many tubes before! I had to give 8 tubes of blood! That is to make sure you are growing great and see any defects or diseases they can see now. We also met with a doctor that I really liked, Dr Leis. She put me on a second Antibiotic, since I am still really sick. Still not gaining any weight, but that will come soon enough I am sure!

The confirmation of our Pregnancy Doc Appt!

2009-05-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

May 16th, 2008

Today I went in to see Dr Wall to confirm what we already knew. You are growing inside me! She also confirmed my due date, January 4th. Within time I will learn to adapt to that. I also got my cold checked out and was put on antibiotics to help battle the sinus infection. I hope it makes me feel better. The Doc also referred me to Langley Air Force Base, this is where you will be born! YAY! Can't wait, our next appt is May 28th at Langley!

After going to the docs and getting the blood test!!! Sooo excited! Taken April 25th, 2008

Months 1 & 2 of Pregnancy

2009-05-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we have made it through 1 month. Nothing big. I have had very little morning sickness. Funny Daddy and I stocked up on Preggo pops, lemon heads, ginger EVERYTHING, including altoids for the dreaded morning sickness everyone tells you about. I have had nothing! The only big issue is finding a toothpaste without mint. We now have 5 different tubes and still I gag on them. Wonder if this baby will hate mint? I do feel very tired and rundown, but I also have cold. So I am not sure if it is the preganncy or the cold. I am very excited for the butterfly feeling that so many books say is the first sign of movement. It will be so exciting to really feel you in my tummy. With all research we have learned what our due date is. January 4th, 2009. UGH......I hate this day. It makes me sad to think of that as your due date. I hope in time it will make me feel better. Having a due date of the day my father died is just awful. Others tell me it is a way to remember a better day instead. I just don't want to be sad on that day, in case it is your Birth Day. But we have not had a doc appt yet, not until May 16th. So maybe the date is wrong. I am looking forward to watching my belly grow with you, I can't seem to say that enough. I also am soo excited about seeing an ultrasound of you. It will be amazing seeing that!

About 8 Weeks along at President Head's Park in Williamsburg

After the Park I insisted on getting some Fried Chicken. I couldn't wait till we got home, so I went ahead and opened the bucket and ate. Nick insisted on a picture at a red light!

Yep, there is a baby growing nicely in there!!

Having a favorite new snack, Wheat Thins and Spray Cheese, YUM!

10 Weeks and to the Fat stage, ugh!

Journal Entry - 05/11/08

2009-05-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby,
Today was a celebration for you! Today is Mother's Day. This is the first time I have received cards for this special holiday!!! I am soo blessed to have you. Daddy has been satisfying every craving! He went to several stores to find Oreo Cookie Ice Cream and Dove Ice Cream Bars. Yummy! I still insist on having avocodos. Everyday I eat them! I swear I have eaten a whole box already! I'm trying to eat a little more. The books say I should have gained a few pounds and I haven't gained any, not even an oz. I want you healthy!! Today I am 6 weeks and 1 day!
Love Mommy

Journal Entry - 05/05/2008

2009-05-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby,
I can't stop thinking about you!!! We have decided on Maiya Rose or Avan Keith. Your nursery will be blue, Lime, and Yellow with turtles. Even daddy has been talking to you. He talks into my belly to you. We have been enjoying evening walks with Macy in hopes for an easier delivery. I bought a few maternity shirts and pants for work to get started. I can't wait to grow into them, knowing you are bigger!! I am now 5 weeks and 2 days! Love Mommy

Journal Entry - 05/01/2008

2009-05-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby,
I am so amazed that you are in my tummy and growing! I started a blanket for you. It is blue, green and yellow. The colors of your nursery. And Turtles! My mother (Nana) also started a blanket that is white and green. I also got my first big craving. Avocodos! And guacomole. The strangest for me, Philly Cheesesteaks. I treated myself to one on Wednesday and it was delicious. I crave food, not sweets. I rather have a filling meal! I keep thinking about you and what is growing. I wonder who you will resemble at birth and as you grow. I can't wait to watch my tummy grow and get bigger. 4 weeks and 5 days! Love, Mommy

Journal Entry - 04/26/08

2009-04-28T11:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby, We are so blessed to have you! We found out yesterday! The stick said "pregnant". Then went to do lab blood work. The sheet said Positive! I have to wait until May 16th to get the doctor to say it though. We called everyone we could think of: Stacy, Auntie Brandy, Nana, Grandpa and Grandma, Meme, Great Grandma Jeanne, Nicki, Crystal, and Uncle Travis. I know we are missing some. Uncle Travis was shocked but excited! We went and celebrated with Ruby Tuesday. I wanted salad! We then went to Books A Million. I love to read and bought 3 books. I am anxious to feel you move and watch my belly grow! I figure I am 4 weeks! 8 Months to go! Love Mommy!

Let's start at the beginning of this wonderful journey.

2009-04-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

April 25th 2008. Today, I woke up to knowing that I would test to see if I had a growing baby or not. We had a successful ovulation stick and Nick insisted I test this morning. He told me he knows I am pregnant. I keep thinking, I don't know.....would it really happen that fast. After all we just stopped the pill at the end of February. I have only had one cycle. So I tested......and YEP it said PREGNANT! I immediately called my doctor to go in for a blood test to be sure. I went in and they explained that they could not tell me the results....which bummed me out. But they did explain they could print out my labs for me and also if I needed a doctor appt then it is apparent that I am indeed pregnant! So, I waited in the waiting room patiently, wondering if a little life is in my tummy. In my mind, I already knew, but didn't want to get all giddy in case it was a fluke. They called me up to the front desk and handed me my copied lab sheet.....the nurse not knowing that I do know how to read labwork!! They explained that I needed to make an appt! I also saw that it showed big amounts of HCG, the hormone made only with pregnancy! I was exstatic! I couldn't wait to tell Nick! So, I got home and called Nick and told him our news.....We are PREGNANT! He of course responds...."I know". We had already made plans for this Friday. We were going to go to dinner and of course see the new movie that was out.....Baby Mama. It was soo much better watching that movie knowing I was indeed pregnant! It was so beautiful to know life was growing inside me and we were going to start a family. The move was awesome!

3 Weeks Pregnant!

To get things started!

2009-04-28T05:22:00.000-07:00

I chose to start a blog because so many amazing things happen and we often forget. I would like to hold onto fond memories that I can read and reread as my son grows! I hope to continue this blog for a long while. I figured I would go back to my Fertility little journal I had started and read those thoughts and make a post for each special day. I will continue on and go from there! For those they choose to read up, I hope you enjoy these thoughts and wonderful times of our journey and how we became a family.