Jan. 21, 2008
Moving!
Hey all, I'm moving our journal over to the page "Family journal"... I'll make it the home page soon! For more stories of our adventures in parenting, check it out! Love and hugs to all! Oh yeah, check out the video page, too... occassionally we've had a minute to upload a quick video clip of our precious babe! Also, added a "Baby's First's" page with pictures...
Thank You!
Jan. 18
I just wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank all of you who were thinking of us, praying for us, and encouraging us! I really thank you for your phone calls, e-mails, and texts. I want to get back to all of you as soon as I can, but I am currently exhausted and at a loss for words for what a miracle having a child is. I wouldn't know what to say or how to describe what a blessing this whole pregnancy, labor, and delivery was, and what a blessing our beautiful daughter is and always will be. I'm keeping it short for now as I am standing at the computer because it's too painful to sit! I love you all and promise to return calls, texts, and emails soon! It meant the world to me to know that you all had contacted us and were thinking of us!
Welcome Home Isabel!
Jan. 17, 2007
Today we welcomed Isabel home! Here's our proud new daddy and our little girl getting ready to leave the hospital. New photos in her album... will probably add photos daily!
IT"S A GIRL!!
Isabella Grace Hall
We are proud parents of a 7lb 10oz baby girl! After 30 hours of labor, Aubrey and baby are healthy and enjoying rest and relaxation. Our Bella girl was born at 12:30am this morning! What an amazing joy to have such a precious and fragile child in our arms. Mother and child are doing well and are expected to return home on Thursday. Aubrey and I thank you for all your support, concern and prayers through our joyous time! Take a look at Isabella's photo album!
2am Walks
All is well at the National Naval Medical Center at 2am. The labor and delivery hallways are quiet; they are filled with distant sounds of baby activity. Aubrey and I have been walking the hallways trying to progress the labor since 7pm last night. She is comfortable with feelings of joy and excitement. As the night has progressed, she has become more and more tired. The doctor just checked her progress; there has been little advancement. Soon she will be started on Pitocine to encourage stronger contractions. As of 2am, she has denied pain medicine. I believe the pressure of labor will soon begin.
Last week, Aubrey and I learned the stages of labor through three simple signs; Smile Face, Frown Face, and Pain Face. We are leaving the smile face right now!
Sorry, I am unable to upload pictures at this time!
Jan. 13, 2008
?
I've been delinquent at keeping up the blog mainly because I was feeling miserable and discouraged. Nicole Richie and Cristina Aguilera and I were all supposed to have our babies together, but they both delivered on Friday. On Friday I had flu-like symptoms and had been up all Thursday night with frequent contractions (7-8 mins apart) for several (10-12) hours. I thought we were heading towards a Friday delivery. I called the Labor & Delivery ward and the triage nurse laughed and said that I really had to wait until the 5 min apart contractions for 2 hours, esp. with our first baby. Then, Saturday morning they just stopped. Saturday I had contractions maybe once every hour to two hours. So, here we are, Sunday afternoon, and we've been having contractions frequently all day. In fact, the last two hours we've had 90% of them be every 5 minutes! So, I just called the traige dept. again and she said to come on in... no guarantees until they check me... but she said this is typically a good sign of an impending delivery. So... we'll see. Only time will tell. We're not going to get our hopes up...too much! Charles will try to post while we're there if possible. (Here I am in all my whale-like glory just now...)
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday to my mom!! She is only 30!! :)
Jan. 8, 2007
Our Baby is a Tease
Charles and I are frequently heard referring to things as "The Hall Way" indicating that either one of us is going about things the hard way or something is happening the hard way. Well, it seems our baby is already adopting "The Hall Way" and will probably stay in the womb 42 weeks and I'll probably have a 72 hour delivery!
All the excitement we've had recently regarding our more frequent and painful contractions were diminished today as we had our 38 week appointment. I am merely 1 cm dilated (refer to image) and our love bundle has not dropped entirely! My uterus is still long and narrow. Baby IS, however, in the head down position--to look on the bright side. Last night Chas and I walked, and walked, and walked....today I walked and walked and walked... I'm not so sure about this walking thing! Really, our babe will come in God's timing which will be the best timing... we're just so excited!! (And, if my fingers get any more swollen I won't be able to keep up with the website!)
HOWEVER, being one cm. now at 38 weeks isn't a real indication of how much longer we have until we meet our baby. One of my co-workers told me she wasn't dilated at all at her 38 week appt, but then went into labor that night! Another lady told me at 34 weeks she was 4 cm. dilated and stayed that way until her delivery at 39 wks. So... you never know! Our baby's health is of the utmost importance and the longer he's in there the better prepared he'll be for the world!
Jan. 7, 2007
The 38th Week
Well, we prayed baby wouldn't come before Jan. 5th so I could finish my job contract and receive my bonus. Then we prayed the baby wouldn't come before today so I could start my "new" position and start receiving benefits. So now, I am telling our baby, kindly asking our baby, prayerfully requesting our baby to come gliding into this world as soon as possible!
I didn't want to be one of those pregnant women that felt miserable at the end. Or at least, I didn't want it to be known. I tried to tell myself that I would smile the whole way through and not complain at the end. However, as I type, my fingers are so swollen with fluid they are numb. Well, now that I think about it, that's probably my biggest complaint. It's my right hand only--go figure. Next to that, it's just the weight of the baby... my goodness! He/She's moving up a storm inside me and the moves are so, so, so strong!
Everything in our house is set up and ready to go. The crib is up with all the bedding in place, the changing table with all the cute matching baskets, our co-sleeper with its mobile, the bouncer that vibrates... we're ready baby!!
In case you haven't noticed, Chas is growing his beard out until the birth of our first born. It's been about 2.5 weeks now... he's trimmed it only once when it got to be unruly. Our delivery room pictures will be reminiscent of the 70's...
Week Thirty-Eight
If he is the "average baby," he weights 6.8 pounds (3083gm)and is 19.6 inches (49.8cm) long.
Have you noticed she hiccups a lot? Because there is no air around her, those breathing exercises cause amniotic fluid to get into her windpipe. The result? Hiccups!
Your child's intestines are accumulating lots of meconium. Meconium takes on the role of being your baby's first bowel movement -- removing the waste that has accumulated.
He may have a full head of hair now -- an inch or more long! Don't be surprised if it's an unexpected color. Some blond couples have dark haired babies; some dark haired couples have red-haired babies; some couples have babies with only peach fuzz! It may just persuade you to take a closer look at your family tree!
Circumference of head and abdomen are about the same size for your baby. No wonder it's so hard to get a t-shirt over a newborn's head!
Jan. 5, 2007
Childbirth Class
Today we had our childbirth class! It was super enjoyable, fun, and informative. The class included some videos, handouts, and hands-on activities. We rolled out the mats and pillows, practiced breathing techniques, and massages. At one point, she called up some of our husbands to demonstrate different roles in the delivery room. This was pretty hilarious.
Jan. 3, 2007
Motherhood
"Sometimes when you pick up your child you can feel the map of your own bones beneath your hands, or smell the scent of your skin in the nape of his neck. This is the most extraordinary thing about motherhood--finding a piece of yourself separate and apart that all the same you could not live without." J. Piccoult
A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts. ~Washington Irving
Jan. 2, 2008
18 MORE DAYS... WOW. 18. WOW.
New Years was fun... we got together with some friends, made a delicious dinner, enjoyed dessert and visiting, played the Wii (I now know what all the hype is about and think it would be a great way to lose the pregnancy weight...) and toasted to the new year! I was surprised I made it to midnight seeing as how I'd been up since 0415! When you're having fun, time flies! I've got a video clip of Chas playing the Wii... too funny. I'll post it later today as well as pictures from the night.
Yesterday I experienced more contractions... first 10 mins apart, then 8, then 10, then 5... and then they stopped. These were more uncomfortable than previous ones... more crampy and tight... had to remember to breathe through them. I laid on my left side and drank some water to see if they were the real deal, but since they stopped after that, we knew it wasn't yet time. Hopefully only 18 more days left! :)
Kangaroo Korner
Yay! We finally decided on a sling to get. This one was recommended to us by Josh & Lina. When Ravenna was only a few months old, we babysat for several hours and carried her around in one of these. I thought it was the most comfortable and precious thing! She seemed to love it, too! We got a fleece (for winter) sling in navy.
Dec. 31, 2007
37 week Update
Pictures to come...
Well here we are in our 37th week! New Years Eve is upon us. 2008 is around the corner...
I just watched Forrest Gump for the first time ever - bawled and LOVED IT. I can't believe it has taken me a decade to see it!
Renovation news... well, Charles and I are in a bit of a transition period. We hope to sell the house in an effort to reduce our commute. So, in thinking about that, we didn't want to show the house with a nursery, but rather a guest room. We will be doing things a bit unconventionally for the time being. We finished the guest room and its closet where the guest room bed will remain, the changing table will be placed and the baby's closet will be. In our office, we have reduced to one desk and we will place the crib in there. This will help Charles while he studies. It sounds a bit chaotic, but it's our best option. Meanwhile, we have been purging our home, getting rid of clothes, furniture and stuff that's been sitting around for some time without the light of day. Nesting, perhaps? It's nice to be doing this before Baby comes! In the end, it makes it all easier for the move next year!
Braxton-Hicks Contractions
.... or "BH Contrax" as they are fondly called on thenestbaby.com.
I love going on thenestbaby.com because it's comforting to read what other pregnant women are experiencing, compare physical symptoms, and share stories.
Anyhow, for the last week or so I've been experiencing these BH Contrax quite frequently, but not regularly. To describe it best, it feels like my entire uterus is tightening as if preparing to be punched in the gut. To touch, my stomach feels incredibly tight in such a way that you could bounce a basketball off of it! It lasts for 30-45 seconds and then relaxes. It is not painful, just uncomfortable for a bit. I guess my body is preparing for the big day finally!
We can't believe the day is almost here. We think back to when we first found out, back in May, and it's been such an amazing journey since then. The joy of finding out and sharing the news, those first ultrasounds, the aches & pains, the feeling of those first movements, a baby shower, seeing the baby move around on the outside... it's incredible. We can't wait to hold this bundle of joy, hearing the first cry, watching him/her open his/her eyes... finding out if we're having a boy or girl!!! It's all so close!! Three more weeks!
37 weeks!
Week Thirty-Seven
This week, the average size is about 6.3 pounds (2859gm) now and 19.1 inches (48.6cm) length.
She is official full term now but can still benefit from extra days in the womb.
Your baby continues to practice breathing movements. Isn't it amazing how she can breathe "under water?"
Grasp is firm now. It won't be long until you'll feel that strong little fist confidently grasping your finger (or tightly clenching your hair)!
A few weeks ago, your baby would move her eyes toward light. Now she turns towards light outside the uterus.
" As the uterine wall stretches and thins allowing more light to permeate, he develops definite daily activity cycles. You will want to be sure to establish good patterns yourself at this time, thus encouraging them in your child. Ever heard of a baby getting his days/nights mixed up? Now's the time to try to avoid that!
Dec. 30, 2007
Chas
Here's the daddy at 37 weeks!
Dec. 28, 2007
Yay! Our Crib
Here's a picture of our crib... We fell in love with it right away! The guest room is painted and will be carpeted when I get home. Charles said he may even have the crib set up and ready to go when I get home! We still have to buy the crib mattress... We have a good size closet in that room, so we are going to do without the rest of the furniture set to save space (and money!) and decrease clutter.
Dec. 27, 2007
36 Weeks
I AM HUGE. Just keep in mind that when Charles takes these pictures he attempts to make me look as large as possible! I'm starting to feel all this extra weight more each day. Sometimes I get winded just standing around for a period of time. I wonder how I muster up the energy to speed walk between commutes. I finally managed to get my wedding ring off during a "skinny finger moment", but just as quickly as that moment came, it went. It'll have to stay off until after we are graced with Baby Hall. I'm so excited because the nursery is coming along so quickly! Carpet will be installed tomorrow! Yay!
36 week appointment
I was anxious about my appointment today particularly because it was to be a bit more invasive than it has been... ladies, you know what I mean. I arrived early as instructed, had my vital signs taken, and waited in the waiting area amongst many other beautiful pregnant women. As I perused a baby magazine, carefully taking mental notes of interesting websites to visit, I noticed that things seemed a bit more unorganized than normal and they were running late. Every few minutes an aid or tech would stick their head out of one of 3 doors and scream a last name. Despite their efforts to project their voices, they were drowned out by screaming children below at the peds clinic and crying babies in our waiting room. Finally, my name was called. I waddled to the exam room where I was instructed to get undressed and wait patiently for... and then she said some name, unknown to me, definitely not my midwife whom I've been seeing all this time! I asked why I would not be seeing my usual practitioner and she said my practitioner was being deployed very shortly! SAD! I was shocked, stunned, and then very nervous about being examined by someone new!
In the end, the new practitioner was very nice, knowledgable and professional. However, since she was new, she was not able to schedule appointments yet which means that I'll be seeing someone new again in 2 weeks! ARG. The delivery will also be performed by someone different depending on who is on call that night! Ah, the joy of the Navy hospital... but, who can complain when it's free?!
Baby Hall checked out wonderfully... measuring well in all arenas. I was a bit shocked at my weight gain, which she said was absolutely a normal weight gain. I'll be seen again in two weeks at which time we'll discuss my GBS results and check to see if I've dilated or effaced at all!
December 25, 2007
Christmas!
Merry Christmas to everyone! We wish we could be with our family & friends today, but we'll be seeing most of you next month! What a wonderful day to celebrate! Thank you everyone for all the fantastic gifts for baby and for us!
Thank you!
Charles had his first dream about the baby! I won't tell you what gender the baby was in his dream though. He dreamt that we delivered the baby in our bedroom! Craziness... the time is drawing near!
Santa Gift
I've been asking Santa for one of these for some time now, but I guess he thought that now that I'm a mom I really do need to have one! Costumes, blankets, mending, here I come!
Nursery
We're finally fully into our nursery renovation! This is everything as it has spilled out into the hallway. The window borders have been stripped, the carpet has been torn out, and Charles is in the process of sanding as I write. Tomorrow hopefully the painting will begin and be finished, Thursday hopefully the finishing touches can be made, and Friday the carpet can be put in! Then over the weekend we can move back in! That's the plan anyway... (We've added a "nursery" page to monitor our progress...) We bought our crib! Yay! It's the kind that transitions as the child gets older and it's definitely great quality! (Thank you to Grandpa Hall and Barb!) I'm trying to find a picture of it...
Week 36
Week Thirty-Six
Your baby is almost ready and most likely, so are you! The only organ still to mature is the lungs. While certainly you are both growing anxious to meet, remember that each day (up to 42 weeks), that your little one stays within your womb will multiply his chances to breathe on his own.
If he hasn't already, this week your baby may drop into the birth canal. While breathing for mom becomes easier, walking may be the exact opposite! If he's not your first baby, this "lightening" may not occur until right before labor.
Fat is dimpling your baby's elbows and knees, and forming creases in the neck and wrists.
His skin is growing smooth and, shall we say it, "baby" soft.
His gums are very rigid. It won't be many months before you'll see his teeth.
She has a fully developed pair of kidneys and her liver has begun processing some waste products.
Your child's average size is now 18.66 inches (47.4cm) and 5.78 pounds (2622 g). Between now and birth she will gain about an ounce a day!
On the agenda...
I have an appointment this Thursday at 10 a.m. for another prenatal check-up.
Dec. 20, 2007
Nina will have to get used to not being Charles' baby anymore!
Who knew there could possibly be 2.5 hours worth of teaching material regarding breast feeding?! Well, there is, and Charles and I were intensely listening until the end. The instructor was a little dry, but the information was so good that you couldn't help but be captivated! It will not be an easy task, but we're up for the challenge.
Going on the tour was an added comfort. At first, I was a little skeptical as to the benefits of walking the unit. However, I found it reassuring to know what to expect, what the labor rooms would look like, how the bassinets work, the recovery rooms, etc. Plus, we got to see some newborns and they were just melt-your-heart-precious.
At NIH I've taken care of this lady twice now and each time her sister accompanies her for her procedures and to translate. The patient is primarily spanish speaking. Well, her sister is a labor & delivery nurse at the Navy Hospital, so it's also reassuring to already know one of the nurses!
So, today is the 20th. Next month, on the 20th, our little one is due! I was getting out of my car yesterday at the grocery store and these two guys driving passed gasped as they shouted, "Woa, lady, you're about to pop!" All I could think of was, "The sooner the better!"
I talked to my mom last night and found out that she, too, suffered from stiff fingers/hands/feet and swollen "kankles" during her pregnancy with my brother. In the morning I can't grasp things very well because my fingers are so swollen. I can't get my rings off. I've also decided that a big part of my pregnant waddle is not only my hips reconfiguring, but also the fact that the bottoms of my feet feel as if they are deeply bruised all over! My feet have probably gone up in size as I can hardly wear my shoes! I'm down to wearing my Merril's with all outfits for two reasons: no shoelaces, they are slip-ons and because they've always been the most comfortable pair of shoes I've had. However, those, too are getting smaller...
I wonder if things will ever go back to normal!
Christmas is next week!!
Dec. 16, 2007
Week 35
This is our 35th week... woohoo. Just got in from church and a quick stop for an exchange at Babies-R-Us. We had a busy weekend with some winter weather and icy conditions to complicate things.
We decided to return our bassinet and get a co-sleeper instead. It's great because it's like a bassinet, but looks like a crib or pack-n-play, but the side drops down so you can attach it to your bedside. This eliminates having to get up at night for the first few months and the possibility of rolling over baby at night! It's light and portable with storage underneath, so we can take it along just like a pack-n-play, too.
Here's Dawn and I at church. I'm huge and she's just starting to show! We're in our 35th week and she's just about 16 and a half. Craziness.
Co-Sleeper
This is our co-sleeper. Later on, it can be used as a changing table, storage area, pack and play... It's wonderful. We're so glad a friend recommended this to us!
week 35
Week Thirty-Five
The average baby weighs almost five and a half pounds now.
Most babies born now will survive and without many long-term problems.
Fat accumulations plumps up the arms and legs this week. These layers of fat will help him regulate his body temperature. They also provide those cute little dimples on elbows and knees!
Her hearing is fully developed, so be sure to talk to your daughter. Do you find yourself speaking in a high-pitched tone? That's okay since some studies show babies respond better to higher pitches.
It's getting crowded! Your baby is now taking up most of the uterus and you may even feel like your chest has run out of room! Soon enough though, baby will move down and you'll be able to breathe easily again (just not walk so easily! Ha!).
Your baby is 18.2 inches (46.2cm) long and weighs 5.3 pounds (2383gm).
The testes have completed their descent in males.
Dec 14, 2007
39 days until our DUE DATE!!!!
All my labs came back normal... no gestational diabetes or anemia! Woo hoo! I was really dreading having to cut back on sweets!
Been sick this week, but hopefully on the mend...
Charles successfully finished one master's degree (with flying colors!) and is on break now! We hope to finish up a lot of the house and of course, the nursery...
Dec. 11, 2007
A Day in the Life
0415: alarm sounds, hit snooze
0424: alarm sounds and I actually have to get up, get ready for work
0500: out the door, drive to frederick
0518: board commuter train, set alarm, sleep for 45 mins
0614: arrive at metro station, board subway
0635: arrive at medical center station, exit subway, begin walk to shuttle buses
0642: shuttle *should* arrive, take shuttle to front of hospital (if late for shuttle, begin speed walking to hospital)
0650: arrive at hospital entrance, hustle to locker room, change
0700: report to work
0700-1530: work (this is the easy, relaxing part of my day)
1530: hustle to locker room, change, speed walk to medical center station (no shuttle available at this time)
1550: must be on subway at this time, no later, in order to make it to commuter train--otherwise, stranded for an hour and 15 mins until next commuter train
1605: arrive at commuter train, run upstairs, board commuter train at 1415 (if everything is on time)
14615-1715: sleep for 45 mins on commuter train
1715:arrive in frederick, warm up car, head home (if train late, arrive in frederick at 1830)
evening: relax, enjoy fire, watch shows, make dinner, dishes and/or laundry, try to be in bed at 2200 to do it all over again...
Variations: my wonderful husband is available to drive me in and/or pick me up on occassion! If I happen to miss the train home, he can sometimes pick me up. Ah...I can't wait until we live closer to our work places.
My hips are splitting
...or at least that's what it feels like. Or maybe it feels like I've got really bad arthritis in my hips. I walk funny, as in, that characteristic pregnant waddle.
So I finally did it. I took a bare belly profile prego picture. The kind where I'm in lounge pants and a sports bra. It will remain seen by Charles and I only. I was shocked to see it. I certainly don't feel that big. Well, I physically feel that big...I just didn't think that I was! Perhaps I will post it, but only for a moment... until the self conscious part of me wins over.
Dec. 9, 2007
34th week
Week Thirty-Four
Your baby acts completely like a newborn, with her eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping. You may also find her settling into more of a routine for sleeping & awake times.
She has learned to blink. She can also see more clearly when there is a bright light on your stomach and probably has the outline of all your organs memorized!
Antibodies from your blood are being tranferred to him. These immunities continue to build until birth. Then breastmilk will add even more protection against disease.
Your baby may have already turned to a head-down position in preparation for birth. If he is your first baby, he may be settling into the pelvis with his head pressing against your cervix.
Fingernails have reached the end of the fingertips now. She may scratch her face even before she is born!
Your little one's length is 17.7 inches (45cm) and weight is 4.7 pounds (2146 g).
Dec. 2, 2007
Entering our 33rd week
Our carseat is here!! It's called the Chicco Keyfit 30 which had the most solid reviews, so we finally chose this one! Now we can bring our baby home from the hospital!! It's red and khaki, my fave colors. It's so funny to see it in our house... we moved it around room to room and envisioned our little babe in it everywhere. Too precious. We got two bases, one for each of our cars for ease of transportation.
2:09 p.m.
Today, at exactly 2:09 p.m., I had my first braxton-hicks contraction! We were on the way home from church and I was enjoying feeling baby Hall move around when suddenly, I felt a tightening and a strong downward movement of my uterus! I told Charles and he asked if I thought it was a contraction. I told him I thought they were just cramps (silly me, that's what contractions feel like)... he asked if was lightening up... I said no... wait, yes... and it lasted for all of 30-45 seconds... and then I realized, I had my first false labor pains. We moved on, but we both watched the clock to see if it would happen again... not this time.
33rd Week
Week Thirty-Three
Amniotic fluid is at its highest level during your pregnancy.
Your baby's head size has increased 3/8ths of an inch due to rapid brain growth.
Neurons and synapses are developing in huge numbers -- forming connections in your baby's brain will give him the skills he needs to thrive as a newborn. This week, he may be able to coordinate sucking and swallowing with breathing.
While most of his bones are hardening, his skull is quite pliable and not completely joined. The bones will be able to move slightly to make birthing easier.
You baby takes intermittent deep breaths -- of water! That's okay, though since she gets oxygen from the placenta. This breathing exercises muscles and encourages her lung cells to produce more surfactant (a protein essential for healthy lung development).
If your baby is a boy, his testicles will be descending from his abdomen into his scrotum. Sometimes one or both testicles won't move into position until after birth.
Your infant is now 17.2 inches (43.7cm) long and weighs 4.23 pounds (1918gm).
Nov. 28, 2007
32 Week Appointment
Just had another check-up and everything looks great. Baby's Heart Rate is holding steady at 140 (normal). This appointment was reassuring because I'm becoming more and more anxious about the health of our baby Hall. It's difficult to work at NIH and see some of the rarest pediatric conditions, diseases, and disorders and NOT to worry about Baby H's health. I just have to remind myself that the things I see here at NIH are extremely rare, they just all happen to be here at the same time. Also, I have to remember that everything is in God's hands! After my appointment I had to do a one hour glucose challenge test to test for gestational diabetes. This test is especially important considering my family history of diabetes and my irresistable desire for sweets all the time. Hopefully I'll know the answer soon.
DREAMS
In the last week or so my subconscience has treated me to some interesting dreams... the basic theme is that my water breaks and I'm no where near the hospital. In one dream, Charles and I had to pull over on I-270 and deliver the baby ourselves. In another, my water breaks while we're camping and everyone with us treats it as a big inconvenience! In another, my water breaks and despite the huge puddle of amniotic fluid staining my clothes, no one believes me! I've been told and I've read that as the time draws nearer for us to meet our bundle of joy, that dreams and anxiety are all normal!
What's new...
I added the monthly tracker page to document how my vital signs are changing and my body is gaining weight. My weight gain is textbook and thank goodness my blood pressure hasn't changed. My fundal height and Baby's heart rate are also holding steady in the normal range. All is well in the womb!
Charles and I are all signed up for a variety of classes in December and January. Unfortunately, I did not realize that the childbirthing classes are open to every expecting couple in the entire D.C. area in all the branches of the military. So, despite my best schmoozing to squeeze into the December classes, some of the classes are in early January. We have a 2.5 hr. lactation class, an 8 hr. childbirthing class, a 2 hr. infant care class, and a 1.5 hr. tour of the labor and delivery unit! The childbirthing class is Jan 5th, so I really hope we get at least that class in before Baby H's debut!
Our bags are packed with at least 2-3 days worth of clothing and supplies. Well, Charles still has to throw in a change of clothes... The camera is locked and loaded. We still have to get the video camera charged and ready. Hopefully, by this weekend, we'll have the bags in one of our cars ready to go. We still have to come up with a contingency plan for Nina and Toby while we're away... Charles and I spend more time away from home than we do at home, so the chances are that we'll be in the middle of something (at work, in class, commuting) when the time comes! Craziness...
November 25th
Beginning of our 32nd Week
So today our Pastor's wife told us about how one of their kids once had a due date similar to ours in January. Well, their baby came an entire month early. Charles and I realized that if Baby H came a month early... that would be in a few weeks from now! So this afternoon we ordered our car seat! We've been putting it off, but since we wouldn't be able to leave the hospital without it, we thought we should get that in the mail. I got completely overwhelmed by the idea of our babe coming an entire month early... but it's all in God's hands and we'll be as ready as we can be!
Mmm, Thanksgiving! We had a nice, quiet Thanksgiving with Tim and Beth. Beth and I "slaved" all day in the kitchen preparing a "home-cooked" meal for our husbands. Everything turned out nicely and we enjoyed one another's company and good food! We finished off the leftovers on Saturday morning; Charles and I continue to work on the desserts. We got in the Christmas spirit by picking up a tree and decorating. It smells delicious and looks fabulous!
Last night must have been the most sleepless night I've had since I've been pregnant. I fell asleep on the sofa around 10, slept until 1 a.m, and then couldn't get back to bed until around four. It was a combination of "restless leg" and a racing mind. When I did doze off, I dreamt that a friend's baby came out talking already and that Charles and I hadn't done things right, so our baby would be behind and not talking. (In all the dreams I've had about our baby--the baby's been a boy...) Aside from last night, we're doing pretty well. We have another check-up this Wednesday--so we're looking forward to that.
I noticed today and last Sunday that Baby H must love church music and the organ! Both Sundays, Baby wiggles around during the hymns and singing, but in between he sits still. Hmm... maybe he's just paying attention to the sermon lessons!
Did I mention that Charles is going to be the most amazing dad ever? :)
Week 32
Week Thirty-Two
Your baby is up to 3.75 pounds (1702gm) now and is 16.7 inches (42.4cm) long.
You might notice she's not moving around as much now. Don't worry! She is fine -- just running short on room. She still has plenty of growing to do though, believe it or not!
All five senses are working. Your little one is fascinated and practicing testing these out as much as possible!
Toenails are completely formed even though she may not be quite ready for a French manicure.
Hair on your infant's head continues to grow in. Will he have dad's black hair or your red hair?
Brain scans have shown that babies have periods of dream sleep (REM) starting around the eight month. What do you suppose your son is dreaming about?
Nov. 19, 2007
31st Week
Wow. That's all I can say! I thought this point in the pregnancy was so far away and now it's here...the home stretch. Less than 10 weeks!! AAAAAAH. I'm growing in what I feel to be an exponential manner... My quads feel as if I've just done 500 lunges. I thought this to be a wierd pregnancy thing as I hadn't read about it, but then my cousin told me when she was pregnant, her quads felt like she had been doing squats all day. Hmm... Shoelaces are a thing of the past... My bag and baby's bag are mostly packed... Just need to add a tennis ball to mine (it works wonders for a lower back massage)... I have the cutest "going home" outfit picked out... just have to order it. I can't believe Thanksgiving is this week! We're excited to have Tim and Beth come out for a visit! Christmas is around the corner, too. I had the ladies over this weekend from church and we made decorations for the church Christmas tree. We listened to Christmas music and got in the spirit! Baby's movements are stronger than ever... still can't get enough of it. My back hurts less and less frequently--hooray! Let the countdown begin!
Week Thirty-One
The rate of physical growth slows down just a bit, but even though she doesn't get much longer, she will gain a lot of weight the rest of the pregnancy.
Fat continues accumulating. This layer of fat turns her skin from red to the rosy pink she will have as a newborn.
Calcium, phosphorus and iron are being stored and his bones are growing and hardening.
Your baby is 16.2 inches (41.1cm) long and weighs 3.3 pounds (1502gm)
His brain enters another period of rapid growth, producing hundreds of billions of new nerve cells! Amazing!
She may move to the rhythm of music. Studies with heart rates show that she also prefers some types of music to others -- already!
Lungs are the only major organ left to complete development. Remember, that while you may be anxious to meet your little one that these last few weeks can be vital - with each day increasing your baby's ability to breathe on her own.
Nov. 12, 2007
Week 30
Woa. Here we are in our 30th week... 10 or fewer weeks until we get to meet Little Hall! (I almost typed in one of the names we've picked!)
Charles and I had a busy weekend with Brad & Elaine's wedding. Josh flew in to shoot the wedding, so I served as his faithful sidekick for the portraits. (Pictures in the Friends & Fam album). This picture is 11/11/07 of us at the wedding. Dancing was an adjustment with our baby between us!
I luckily have the day off to recover (Happy Veteran's Day!), so I slept in until 1100! It was fantastic.
I'm feeling pretty good lately. It really is true what they say about being tired in the first and third trimesters. Charles and I are feeling nostalgic as we think about how our lives are going to change once Baby H enters the world. We've enjoyed some good reminiscing and looking back at photos. It's not a sad transition, but a happy one. We laugh as we think about how much we're on the road commuting, how spontaneous we are with our schedules and sleep and meals.... so, we look forward to settling in at home most nights together, less driving, more home cooked meals. We can't wait!!
I think I'll pack the baby bag and my bag today!
Week Thirty
Did you know your baby is nearly three pounds now?
His head is getting larger to accommodate a period of rapid brain growth. Don't forget to continue to "teach" your baby in the womb by exposing to music, literature, and simply talking to him.
A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him. As he grows and fills your uterus, the amount of amniotic fluid will decrease. Funny, you certainly won't feel any lighter!
She spends more and more time practicing opening and closing eyelids. Her eyes can move from side to side, following a light source. She may even reach out to touch the light.
Early lanugo is beginning to disappear that served to protect your baby's skin from the water in the womb. Your little one's own hair may begin to appear.
Toenails are entering their final growth stage.
Bone marrow is now in charge of red blood cell production. These red blood cells will continue to service your child's body by transporting oxygen and removing the wastes (carbon monoxide and other gases).
Your baby has the capability now to produce tears -- yes, within the womb.
By the end of this week, your baby is now 15.7 inches (39.9cm) long and weighs 2.91 pounds (1319gm).
November 6, 2007
How Time Flies...
November already -- I can hardly believe it. This week is our 29th week and all continues to go well! Here's where baby is at now:
Week Twenty-Nine
Your baby's head is in proportion with body now. He appears more like a newborn each and every day!
Fat continues to accumulate under the skin -- only now preparing for entering the *real world*.
Your baby's brain can control primitive breathing and body temperatures.
His eyes can move in their sockets. Soon he will be able to follow a blinking light.
Your baby is increasingly sensitive to changes in light, sound, taste, and smell! Various studies show that your baby may indicate preferences (or disdain) for particular tastes or odors at this stage
He is also moving from side to side, but probably still is head up. In the next few weeks, he will move to the head down birthing position. At times you may feel as if he is performing somersaults for a circus act!
Her length is now approximately 15.2 inches (38.6cm) and weight is 2.54 pounds (1153gm)
Getting ready & nesting?
While we received a ton of great stuff for baby, we still needed the necessities to get our baby home! Charles and I realized that we still need a car seat and to pack a baby bag with all the immediate necessities to get baby home from the hospital. So, we bought a bag (one that Charles is willing to carry around) to pack our first baby bag! We probably also need a place for baby to sleep! So, we bought an adorable bassinet! With all the many, many choices out there, Charles and I have been scrutinizing car seats and strollers trying to find one that's safe, reasonable, and fits our lifestyle.
I'm not sure I'm fully into the nesting stage, but I do have a greater than normal desire to have the house neat, clean, and devoid of all the extra stuff we have! Ah, if there were only more hours in a day...
So, over the past few weeks I've received many comments on my growing size! Some women have said I look great, still small for how far along we are. I'm finding that strangers are the ones who have thought that I would be going in labor any day! Last night a women asked, "About due, huh?"
I'm having trouble tying my shoes... I feel as if I have no stamina... and I'm back on the sofa with a new lumbar support pillow. I LOVE that we can feel the baby moving around so much, that we can feel body parts, that we get to meet him/her in just a couple of months!!
October 29
The Bun in My Oven
The Bun in my oven is officially 27 weeks and half. Pardon my miscalculation! I lost track when we went to Chicago. So, technically now we're in our 28th week.
Just had a prenatal appointment this morning...in and out in 20 minutes. BP, HR, and weight look good. Baby's fetal heart rate: 140 - healthy. From here on out, I have to monitor the baby's movements at the same time each day. If there are less than 10 movements in a 2 hour period (relatively the same two hour period each day), then there is cause for concern. Tomorrow I have to go in for a lab work up to make sure I'm not getting gestational diabetes or anything else the baby might not like. Today also signed up for a Childbirth and Lactation Class, an Infant Care Class, and a Budget for Baby class (at which we get "Baby's first sea bag"!) It's exciting to be registered for classes!! It's just all around very, very exciting!!
Last night I slept in our bed and lo' and behold, I slept well! Yay! I think I'll get to keep my bunmaker husband company from now on!
The coolest thing about this website is that when we close it down, they put the whole thing on CD for us to keep! And y'all know how sentimental I am!
October 28, 2009
Halloween
For the first time, Charles and I dressed up for Halloween this weekend! Many ideas crossed our minds before we decided on The Bun in the Oven and The Bun Maker! I found this idea online and just thought it was a great way to highlight Baby Hall and get in the holiday spirit. This costume was the first costume I've ever made at home! I'm typically the one running out the day of to buy whatever remains at the costume store. This costume was easy for Charles, too, since he just had to sport an apron and hat. Everyone thought the couple costume was super-cute and a great idea! Thanks, Dawn, for throwing a great Halloween party! Another Baby's pre-firsts!
At first, I was super-excited about getting to give out candy this year on Halloween. I've always had to work in the past. Then it occurred to me that I have class on Halloween. Sad.
October 24, 2007
Week 28 in progress
We are in our 28th week...Next week we'll launch our third trimester!! Our next OB appointment is on Monday morning (the 29th)! At that appointment we will RSVP for our lamaze class and others!
I'm reading this AMAZING book that I want all of my lady friends & family to read. It's called Baby Catcher and it chronicles the stories of this midwife and various women's deliveries. It's extremely heart warming and funny. It makes me believe I can do it naturally!! Please read!!
I've been slacking on the website because I've officially started to prepare for the world of graduate school. Haven't quite decided a specific direction, but I do want to have the GRE done before Baby H comes along. I have class on Mondays and Wednesdays evenings. I don't think Baby likes to sit around for 2.5 hrs straight because the entire time he will move, flip, swim, leap, and dive all over the place. Needless to say, I've been a little distracted in class.
Week Twenty-Eight
Eyebrows and eyelashes are now very noticeable!
Hair on baby's head is growing longer. Some babies are born with almost none at all, while others appear to be ready for their first haircut!
Eyes are completely formed now. Quite a view from inside!
Your baby's body is getting plump and rounded. Most of that increase is muscle tissue and bone. Fat will be added during the third trimester.
Muscle tone is improving. Preparation for the Olympics feels like it is taking place in your womb!
Lungs are capable of breathing now (but baby would still struggle and require medical attention if born now)
Talk to your baby often, reading stories, singing songs and more. He or she can recognize your voice now and will often calm to it later on!
Your baby weighs in now at 2.2 pounds (1005gm) and is 14.8 inches (37.6cm).
October 16, 2007
Thank You
A million thanks to everyone who wished us well and those who came to celebrate on Saturday with us. We were glad to see everyone and had a blast!! Thank you for the generous gifts that will help us prepare for Baby Hall.
I'll try to post pictures tonight from the weekend festivities. If you took any, please send us copies and/or digital copies to our e-mail addresses. We would love to see them!!!
October 12, 2007
Yay!
So excited to be headed home this weekend!! We can't wait to see everyone!!
I called the airline to see if there were any special instructions/regulations regarding pregnant passengers (my midwife suggested I do this--I never would have thought to check myself!). It turns out that pregnancy gets you pre-boarding privileges! However, I'm not allowed to sit near the exit rows. I can't remember a time other than the 18 hr flight to the Philippines that I've ever used an airplane bathroom... I might have to sit near one and in the aisle for this trip!
The baby moves soooo much these days. Yesterday for the first time I could feel the baby turn or flip slowly -- whatever it was, it was a big, slow movement. It's amazing and I can't describe it. I can't get enough of it though. Some of the activity is so low in my belly that I worry the baby's going to make his/her entrance into the world!
With the cooler weather here - finally - I went to try on my fall/winter jackets and coats. Well, to my surprise, they don't fit!! Guess it means more shopping...
October 8, 2007
Wow.
So, all this time I've been saying "Oh, I'm 24 weeks" or however many weeks and it still sounds like it's early in the pregnancy. Yesterday, Charles tallied up the weeks and he said, "Oh, wow, we're SIX MONTHS!" SIX MONTHS! Holy cow. That's three months left! Every now and then throughout the pregnancy, we've had moments of realization like that!
This weekend our good friends Trisha and Jared came to visit with their precious new son Jackson! Charles and I got a front row seat to parenting over the weekend and even got some practice in holding, soothing, and feeding. (No diaper changing though!) It was neat to just see how often they were feeding or changing, what to bring here or there!! Its crazy to think that we'll have our own in THREE SHORT MONTHS!! We had a blast hanging out with them as always and look forward to our babies being buddies!! Pictures of our visit with them and our trip to Mount Vernon and Gettysburg in our Friends & Family album.
25 Weeks
Week Twenty-Five
The structures of the spine begin to form -- joints, ligaments and rings. These will protect the all important spinal cord which serves as the information transmitter for your child's body.
Blood vessels of the lungs develop.
Your baby's nostrils begin to open. There is a study out of Belfast that suggests babies at this stage have the capability of scent preferences!
The nerves around the mouth and lip area are showing more sensitivity now. When baby is rooting for food later on, these will be valuable!
His swallowing reflexes are developing.
Dexterity is improving. Your baby can make a fist and would clasp objects placed in palm.
Your child has now obtained an approximate length of 13.6 inches (34.6cm) and weighs 1.46 pound (660gm).
Oct. 3, 2007
Prenatal Appointment
Today we had another prenatal check-up. Everything continues to go well. We heard Baby's heartbeat which clocked in at 156. It was a quick appointment just to make sure everything was going well and to address any concerns. I'm packing on the pounds now and have to be cautious that I don't go over the recommended weight gain. My own vital signs were normal as well. From here, we now progress to being checked on every four weeks, rather than six. We were glad to know all looks and seems well!
Sept. 30, 2007
Week 24
Ah, another wonderful week has passed. What has transpired this week? A shower date has been chosen!! (Please see our baby shower and gift registry page for info.) Charles and I are very excited to be heading back home to see all of our friends and family. Mom Swanson and Grandma will be joining us all the way from New Mexico! Yay! We'll get to see little Ethan for the first time!
I finally received my credentialling this past Monday at NIH, so I've got the go-ahead to practice there! Though it's been nice to just watch and observe for two weeks, I was ready to get practicing again. It's like riding a bike - taking care of patients in the PACU, that is - just gotta get back in the swing of things.
The sofa continues to suit me well...
I've got another prenatal appointment this Wednesday (and coincidentally, so does Dawn)! Super excited. Not sure if we'll got another look at Baby Hall, but a check-up is always good. BUT, it's almost time to make our appointment for our 3D ultrasounds!!
A milestone week
Week Twenty-Four
Bring on the bulk! Baby gains about 6 ounces this week. The weight is in muscle, bone mass and organs.
His body begins to fill out with his appearance increasingly becoming more like a newborn.
Taste buds begin to form. If mom drinks something strange or bitter, baby may be observed showing his distaste.
Little creases have appeared on his palms. The muscular coordination of his hands has improved as he sucks his thumb.
Over the next seven days the sweat glands will be forming in the skin.
His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" and cells that produce surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs inflate easily.
This week your baby is officially considered viable.
Baby weighs 1.3 pound (600gm) and is 11.8 inches (30cm) long -- almost the length of a ruler!
Sept. 23, 2007
23 Weeks!
I'm officially relocating to the sofa. I can no longer rest comfortably on our bed -- a bed that I've previously slept very peacefully on! I informed my wonderful husband of this development this evening and he was saddened. However, the lack of sleep has been affecting all aspects of living, so this must take priority immediately! I tried it the last few nights/naps and have slept beautifully on it! So, that's that.
Here we are at 23 weeks! Dawn suggested we take pictures of Charles, too, throughout the pregnancy to record how he is and what he looks like - for us to reminisce years later!
Week Twenty-Three
Proportions of the body are now quite similar to a newborn although thinner since he hasn't begun to form body fat.
Bones located in the middle ear harden.
Your baby is able to hear. (Dads, did you know: low-frequency sounds mimicking a male voice penetrate the abdomen and uterine wall better than the higher frequencies of the female voice?)
The eyes are formed, though the iris still lacks pigmentation.
The pancreas, essential in the production of hormones, is developing steadily. She has begun producing insulin, important for the breakdown of sugars.
If born now, your baby has a 15% chance of survival, his odds going up with each passing day. .
The average baby at this stage weighs 1.1 pound (501gm) and is 11.38 inches (28.9cm) long.
(Almost a foot long! Whoa...no wonder I can feel every little movement!)
Sept. 16, 2007
22 Weeks & Counting!
Ah, many have asked and I've finally delivered. Here's my latest prego profile... it was really sunny this afternoon outside of church so I am squinting. Click on the thumbnail to enjoy the fullness of my 22 week prego belly! There's another photo from last week after church for my 21 week shot.
Good news! My two great friends, Tiffany and Dawn, have recently found out they are also expecting!! Yay!! With each of them, we've talked about being prego together - and it really happened! Pic of me Dawn in the family & friends album. She's still tiny!
We're over halfway now and the reality of the pregnancy has become more real -- which I didn't know was possible. I can't get enough of feeling our baby move around -- it's just an amazing feeling! I feel like I can already "play" with him because there are certain ways I can move or touch my stomach that illicit a thump or two. There are still a lot of preparations to be made for baby as we have not yet started working on the nursery. We did register - which was super fun! We're just working on nailing down a weekend to fly back home before Baby comes along.
Sept. 12, 2007
Working Mother
Well folks, it's back to the grind in the Hall household. After a month of "vacation", I've started a new job at the National Institute of Health (right across the street from Bethesda Naval where I did work). The pace is nice - very different - slow - which will be much appreciated when I'm waddling and not as quick on my feet. I work 7 - 3:30, which is super to be home by 4:30, but the mornings are rough with traffic. Baby Hall seems to be very active throughout the day while I'm at work; perhaps he's adjusting to my new hours! It's nice to be at work and feeling productive again... also, getting paid is great!
Thank goodness for Body Pillows
As some of you know, sleepless nights have been plaguing me for weeks now. From what I understand, this is pretty normal for pregnant mothers. I toss and turn, waking up for several hours at a time. I gave up trying to sleep once awake because that would only infuriate me. So, I've learned to get up and do something - whether that be read a book or watch a movie. I finally took a suggestion from several baby books and friends and invested in a body pillow. I don't know what it is about it, but whatever it is has brought sleep and feelings of restfulness in the a.m. I was a stomach sleeper and not being able to do so is like teaching an old dog new tricks. With the help of the body pillow, I'm adjusting much better...
Sept. 10, 2007
21 week milestones
Week Twenty-One
White blood cells are under production. Leukocytes (or white blood cells) form our body's defense sytems. They help fight infections and diseases.
Your little one's skin has changed from translucent to become more opaque.
Your infant's tongue is fully formed. If you were able to peek you might catch your son or daughter practicing giving you a raspberry!
If your baby is a girl, her womb and vagina are formed. Unlike males, females have a limited supply of eggs in their lifetime. At this point your daughter will have 6 million eggs. This amount decreases to approximately one million by birth.
Baby swallows more this week. After your baby takes in amniotic fluid, his body absorbs the water in the liquid and moves the rest into the large bowel. This is good practice for his digestive system!
Wake and sleep periods become more consistent. Some research suggests that baby sets her internal clock to match the outside world's even before birth! Your eating and sleeping habits as well levels of light and noise serve as her signals.
Length is now measured crown to heel.
Baby measures about 10.51 inches (26.7cm) and weighs nearly 12.7 ounces (360g).
Sept. 7, 2007
Welcome Ethan Christian!!
Adrian and Heather had their baby today - 6 lbs 7 oz, 19 inches long - around 1100. Baby and Mom are doing fine and everyone is rejoicing!! He's healthy and happy!! Charles and I are excited to be a new Uncle and Aunt!! (A few more pictures can be found in the Family & Friends photo album.)
Sept. 4, 2007
IT"S A BOY!!
As Aubrey was lying on the table watching the ultra-sound, an image came across the screen.....the money shot! There was something showing that resembled two peas and a pod! She hesitated in telling me because she didn't want to ruin the surprise for me!
.
Sept. 4, 2007
IT"S A GIRL!!
The monitor was angled is such a way during the ultra-sound that Aubrey, at times, found it difficult in seeing the screen. Suddenly across the screen came a direct image, clear as day, the lack of two peas and the pod!
THE DEBATE
Though Aubrey and I believe in what gender we saw in the ultra-sound pictures, the blessing and excitement of discovering the gender of our baby on delivery day is one of many gifts we are looking forward to!
Sept. 4, 2007
Baby H gives us a "thumb's up" at 20 weeks
Today, Charles and I had a more accurate ultrasound appointment in radiology. We saw larger and more distinct images of baby Hall moving around and he even gave us a thumbs-up sign --which the doctor had never seen anything like it before (I'll post that picture soon!) Because the images were larger, they were able to measure baby Hall's features more accurately which bumped our due date up by 3 days... now JAN 20th.
There's no hiding my belly any more! I love it!
Baby Hall is an active little person. It's funny because I can tell when he's resting and when he's awake. He'll be really active, moving and adjusting for several minutes to a half hour... then there won't be anything for an hour or so... it tickles! Charles can now feel some of the stronger movements of Baby H - so I'm constantly calling him over to feel the bumps and tickles.
The radiology tech and the doctor said everything looked great so far! Yay! Check out our photo album page for more ultrasound scans!
Twenty-Week Milestones
Week Twenty
You're half way there!
The rapid growth stage is about over. While things have slowed down, this next stage is vital to survival.
The baby's heart grows stronger. Find a quiet place, lay flat on your back. Locate your own heartbeat by finding your pulse. Next lay your hand on your belly. You may be able to distinguish the two heartbeats!
His legs are reaching their relative size. With the increase muscle develop occurring as well, you will start feeling much more than tiny flutter kicks soon!
Immunities are being transferred from you to your baby now. These immune cells will protect her from viruses you've already had for up to six months after birth!
The nerve cells for taste, smell, hearing, seeing, and touch are now developing in specialized areas of the brain. Production slows down as existing nerve cells grow larger and make more complex connections.
Your baby may startle in reaction to loud sounds. Amazingly, she can actually hear noises outside of the womb. Familiar voices, music, and sounds that baby becomes accustomed to during her development stages often are calming after birth.
If your baby is a girl, her uterus is starting to develop. She has approximately six million eggs in her ovaries. About one million will remain at birth.
Baby is about 6.46 inches (16.4cm) and weighs around 10.58 ounces (300g).
Aug 29, 2007
Woo hoo!! Who thought a cashier could make one's day?! Today, the cashier at the grocery store greeted me and then proceeded to ask me when I was due. I paused for a moment to process the fact that a total stranger noticed that I was pregnant and was so sure that I was indeed pregnant that she could be so bold as to ask when the due date was. After a brief moment, I answered and we had a very pleasant conversation! This blew me away!
Week 19 Milestones
Week Nineteen
Your baby has the same awake and sleep patterns of a newborn. He has a favorite position for sleep and recognizable active and rest periods.
Throughout baby's body, nerves are being coated with a fatty substance called myelin, which insulates the nerves so that impulses can flow smoothly.
Scalp hair becomes apparent this week. It has sprouted and continues to grow.
The milk teeth buds have already developed and over the next few days the buds for the permanent teeth will begin to form behind the milk teeth.
If baby is female the uterus starts to develop. If you're having a girl, the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are in place.
If it's a boy, the genitals are distinct and recognizable.
Your baby is swallowing amniotic fluid and his or her kidneys are making urine.
Your little one's size is around 6.02 inches (15.3cm) and 8.47 ounces (240gm).
Aug 28 07
17 weeks & 2 days or 18 weeks?
Here is our "18" week ultrasound...
With a little help from our nurse midwife, Charles and I were able to oogle over our baby's features. On the right side you can see the outline of his head and his little hand curled up by his forehead. Yay!
August 27, 2007
Baby's doing fine
We had our 18-20 week prenatal check up on Friday. Everything looks great! We had a bit of difficulty finding the baby's heart beat with a doppler alone, so we got the ultrasound machine and were able to visualize the heart beating. We saw Baby Hall move around and we have a difficult-to-make-out ultrasound picture that I will post eventually--maybe I can figure out if I can label features. Our radiology ultrasound is scheduled in another week and a half at which we should get some clearer images of Baby Hall. At that appointment they should be able to tell us the gender... but we're going to decline!
Aug 22, 2007
Week 18 Milestone
Week Eighteen
Vernix (a white cheese-like protective material) forms on baby's skin with the lanugo (soft, lightly pigmented hair covering the body and limbs); both serving to protect your baby's skin during the months in water.
Your placenta continues to grow and nourish the baby. Don't forget those prenatal vitamins!
Tiny air sacs called alveoli begin to form in lungs. He'll be putting these lungs to good use in just a few months!
Her vocal chords are formed. She goes through the motions of crying but without air she doesn't make a sound.
Features of your baby's heart, including ventricles and chambers, should be visible during an ultrasound.
Your baby measures about 5.59 inches (14.2cm) this week and weighs about 6.7 ounces (190gm).
Aug 22, 2007
Yay!
Can't hardly wait to see baby Hall again this Friday at our next OB check-up and ultrasound! Stay tuned for new ultrasound pictures!
Aug 17, 2007
Same Top, Different Day
So the concert was loads of fun. I love summer concerts! We had so much fun. The music was LOUD and I could feel it in my chest and wondered if Baby Hall was sensing it.
A girl could spend a fortune on a new maternity wardrobe, but this girl can't! I love this tank and it's super comfy!
P.S. Yay for cell phone cameras!
August 15, 2007
Concert-hoppin' Mama
Tonight Charles and I are headed to some concerts with some friends. It's local, but it's some of our favorite 90's bands: Counting Crows, Live, and Collective Soul. We're pretty excited.
Nothing too new here... of course had another weekend on the boat and church on Sunday.
Exercising more often and feeling good about it. Charles is, too. We're also working on the garage to get organized so that we can more efficiently renovate the nursery.
Aug 15, 2007
Week 17 Milestones
Week Seventeen
By week 17, your baby weighs about 4.97 ounces (140gm) and is 5.12 inches (13cm) long.
He or she has a much more normal "human" appearance now. She holds her head more erect and her body and limbs are longer in proportion to her head.
Pads are forming on his tiny fingertips and toes. Soon those individual swirls and whorls will be apparent.
Her eyes are looking forward now, but they are still firmly closed.
Meconium (composed of products of cell loss, digestive secretion and swallowed amniotic fluid), is accumulating in the bowel. This black gooey substance will become your baby's first poop!
The umbilical cord is growing thicker and stronger and continues to rush blood and nutrients to your growing baby.
If your child is male the prostate begins to develop.
Her skeleton is tranforming from cartilage to bone. The bones remain flexible to make the journey through the birth canal easier.
August 9, 2007
Our latest Prego Pic
Here we are, 15.5 weeks, in front of the World War II Memorial (my favorite) over the weekend! It was nearly 100 degrees out that day and we walked miles and miles all over downtown D.C. Luckily, my KEENS (highly recommended) kept me comfortable! I added a couple of pictures to some of the albums on the photo album page!
By the way, I LOVE the comments and name suggestions and I look forward to getting them all the time! Thank you for taking the time out to leave us a note!
Really, I thought my appetite was voracious a month ago--it was nothing compared to what it is now! I literally eat a dinner size meal out of feeling starved about every 2-3 hours. Nausea resolved unless I don't eat frequently. Belly bump seemingly unchanged. Weight fluctuates. Life is great!
Oh, just so we all know, Charles voted for the snoopy nursery 10 times.
August 8, 2007
Thank You
I just wanted to take a moment to say a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone that made my military separation a memorable and happy time. Many of you called, sent cards, or sent e-mails. I appreciate the gesture and the kindness! It was such a milestone moment for me that was made much more special by all of our friends and family. THANK YOU especially to Charles for being with me at the hospital as I checked out and said my farewells.
Familia
My loving and ever so sensitive husband knew I'd been yearning for some family so he secretly arranged for my mom and brother to fly out to visit for four days. We had a great time showing them around, talking baby stuff, and of course, sailing. My mom whipped up enough Filipino food to last us months and to satisfy my cravings for mom's home cooking. Baby Hall definitely had his first tastes of real Filipino cooking. Hopefully I learned something this weekend about cooking.
August 8, 2007
Week 16 Milestones
Week Sixteen
Fat begins to form underneath skin, providing your baby with insulation for the coming months.
Did you know that both baby and placenta are now about the same size?
Your little one has reached 4.57 inches (11.6cm) and approximately 3.53 ounces (100gm).
His head and neck are held straighter now.
This is a week of "mights!" You might hear the tiny thumps of his heartbeat with an external monitor now. The genitals are developed sufficiently that an experienced sonographer might be able to determine if your baby is a boy or a girl.
Her heart is pumping as much as 6 gallons of blood a day and beats at a rate about double your heartrate.
If you could take a peek inside, you would witness your child's reflexes in action! (Sucking, swallowing and blinking are now evident.) She is probably even hiccuping even though you don't feel it yet!
Your baby has learned to breathe! This is apparent from the regular movements of his chest. Isn't it amazing that he is able to breathe "underwater," inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid? These actions help the lungs to develop and grow.
August 3, 2007
Week 15 Milestones
Week Fifteen
You may begin to feel some fluttering movements as baby kicks, flails, twists and turns (but don't panic if you don't yet). She can also grasp, squint, frown, grimace and maybe suck her thumb!
Your baby's legs have grown longer than the arms and the body is now longer than the head.
And you'll be happy to note that he is moving those arms and legs often!
His skin is very thin -- so thin blood vessel are visible. It's covered by a fine, soft layer of hair called lanugo. Lanugo comes from a Latin word meaning "down." This hair is thought to help insulate your little boy.
The three tiny bones in his middle ear have begun to harden. The auditory centers in your baby's brain haven't developed yet, so she might not really understand what you say but her hearing capacity is in the process of developing.
Fingernails and toenails are growing.
Eyebrows are beginning to grow and even the hair his head is sprouting. It will probably change color and texture after birth.
All this and your little one is an amazing 3.98 inches (10.1cm) long and may weigh 2.47 ounces (70gm).
Fluttering?
I think I'm feeling "fluttering" movements. And, when I shift positions, I think I feel movements. I probably won't be sure until he/she gives me his first karate chops or kicks.
3d and 4d Ultrasounds
The picture shown here isn't mine, but it's a 3d/4d ultrasound where you can actually see a lot more of the baby's features. Once the baby is bigger you can see what he/she looks like. Charles and I think we want to do this...but it does cost a bit extra, since most hospitals don't offer this out of necessity. You have to go to a special center. Check out this website: http://babytobeimages.com/gallery.html for more examples.
July 31, 2007
My First Baby Bump Profile
As I was walking around today in this dress, I asked Charles if I especially looked pregnant. From my point of view, I thought I just looked a little chunky. THEN, I had him take these pictures at home. When I saw them, I thought, "OMG, I look WAY pregnant!" The dress way accentuates my new curve because I don't look like that (I don't think) in most other things. You be the judge!
July 29, 2007
The End to my 4 Years in the Navy
Friday marked my last full working day in the Navy. It was indeed bittersweet as I predicted. A few tears were shed as I realized I really enjoyed and valued my time in the service. Charles said it perfectly when he said those 4 years in the Navy will probably be the most memorable time (aside from having a family) and a time when I challenged myself the most and grew the most. My workspace threw me a "farewell and following seas" luncheon and they had pooled together a very generous gift for the baby. They also conspired with Charles secretly so that he could be there and Charles surprised me by bringing Dawn as well! It was such a nice day... surreal, though, that it's nearly over...
Another great weekend...
Charles, Dawn, and I had a fabulous weekend. Our friend Dawn came up to spend the weekend with us. Friday night we went to a baseball game where good times were had. Then, Saturday we had another incredible day on the boat. We actually partook in a race with another boat... the race was set with a finish line at the key bridge... Charles had a novice crew comprised of Dawn and I while the other boat had expert sailors. Despite our disadvantage, Dawn, Charles and I managed to beat them by half a boat's length to the bridge. After that, we and two other boats dropped anchor in a cove for some swimming and grilling. Another great day!
Motherhood Maternity
Ok, so a handful of people have said it now. They have pointed out that I went from not showing to showing in like a week. Some of the seasoned mothers at work say that happens... one day you're not showing, the next your belly is just out there! So, with that said... Dawn and I went to motherhood maternity to buy my first maternity clothes. I have to say that I'm impressed with the selection these days. So, at home, prior to this, I've been sporting skirts (because I can hike them up over my baby bump) and babydoll shirts (because they make me feel like I'm still wearing my pre-pregnancy clothes well). BUT, I'm down to only one pair of pants (jeans) that fit comfortably. SO, we went and I bought a new top and a pair of jeans (not with the stretchy-bandy waist, but with a garter band in the back)... and they are actually super-cute! Most of the stuff was still pretty tent-like on me, but I'm sure I'll fill those clothes up in time!
July 25, 2007
Week 14 Milestones
Thyroid gland has matured and your baby begins producing hormones which will be used throughout his or her life. In boys, the prostate gland develops. In girls, the ovaries move from the abdomen to the pelvis. Your little one may have learned to suck his thumb by this point! Your child's bones are getting harder and stronger by the day! Your baby's skin is very transparent still. Lanugo (very fine hair) covers the baby's body and will continue to grow until 26 weeks gestational age - Generally this will be shed prior to birth. Its purpose is to help protect baby's skin while in all that water! Your baby is 3.42 inches (8.7cm) long and weighs about 1.52 ounces (43 grams) - approximately the weight of a letter!
Beautiful Weekend
Though I may not always feel it, Charles pointed out that I'm feeling less nauseated, less frequently and that I'm "glowing"...
We spent this weekend with friends on the boat on Saturday and had what was probably our best sailing day yet. The weather was perfect, the wind was at our backs, the sun was shining! We couldn't have asked for a better day! We sailed and sailed off into a small cove where we dropped the anchor, busted out the grill, and hung out. Charles, Jamie, and Nina jumped in the water to cool off while Toby, John, and I stayed on the boat. Charles is getting really great at sailing and the more we invite people on the boat, the less work with the sails I have to do! Days like Saturday make it really hard to think about selling the boat... maybe Baby Hall will be a natural...
The Pool
So Sunday I spent the day at the waterpark (sans Charles) with a bunch of wonderful people from church. I sported my tankini due to my growing mid-section. Still, I was a bit self-conscious since I don't really look pregnant quite yet. However, I did spot some proud moms further along in their pregnancies with full bellies sporting teeny-weeny bikinis! They looked great--and I can't wait to do the same! I think that'll be the day I'm most comfortable in a swim suit ever!
P.S.
I totally did NOT pick the Superman theme song for our website... It was just as much a surprise to me as it was for you!
July 23, 2007
Alright! 13 weeks! Woo hoo!
So yes, it's true... breakfast. LOVE IT. I have NEVER liked breakfast... I used to lay breakfast cereal and milk out in middle school and high school just so my parents would think I ate it... I was always the one ordering a burger for breakfast at Perkins... Now I can't get enough of it... all day, every day... french toast, eggs, pancakes... Yummy.
13 Week Milestones
Week Thirteen
Your infant is about 2.91 inches (7.4cm) and weighs around 0.81 ounce (23gm) - This is about the same weight as 4 quarters.
If you could peek in again you may spot your baby as he begins to practice inhaling and exhaling movements
Eyes and ears continue to move and develop
Baby's neck is getting longer, and the chin no longer is resting on his chest
Her hands are becoming more functional - Your baby may find it comforting to start playing with her fist.
At this point all nourishment is received from the placenta
On your next doctor visit you should be able to hear heartbeat with a Doppler by now - (Don't worry though if you can't, the heartbeat can be confirmed through U/S). Your baby's heartbeat is much rapider than your own and may remind you of the race towards birth that he is running!
July 11, 2007
Daddy’s Comments
Yip, I’m a dad! It’s been a heavy responsibility these last few months. I have to make sure Aubrey’s belly is fed; the sleep environment is suitable for rest, and of course that the baby belly is cuddled and sung to. Speaking of songs, if you unblock your pop-ups, this is our baby's most requested tune! The little one can’t get enough of it! The last few months, pregnant belly and I have been talking shop. Primary topic: daddy and mommy “love you”.
Here are some Chucky-Fun-Facts!
Pregnancy food: Breakfast all the time: Eggs, bacon, waffles
Nausea: Food cures nausea….Its hard for Aubs to grasp
Sleep: Everywhere and all the time
Moodiness: Never!
Famous quote: I can’t, I’m pregnant!
Countdown: 195 days
As the days go by, Aub’s belly becomes more uniforme. “The baby bump is forming” and the excitement is building for the punches and kicks to be felt.
July 10, 2007
Night Shift Again
I'm glad I'm able to play with the website from work, otherwise, I'd certainly be asleep in the corner. I posted a new poll--as I was looking around for nursery items I realized just how much it takes to furnish a nursery! By the time we're done, the baby will have a crib, a bassinet, a changing table, a dresser, a car seat, a swing, a rocker, and more outfits than I own myself! So, decorating a nursery feels an awful lot like picking out wedding colors and themes! We're not going to know the gender, so that eliminates all the frilly girly things or the blue boy rooms. Decorating the nursery is much like setting the mood of your wedding, or picking out the name of your child--it's like setting the stage for our baby's personality. Perhaps I'm thinking too deeply about this... Anyway, check out the poll! Also, I realized that Burlington Coat Factory has a lot of the same nursery themes as Babies-R-Us...for much cheaper!
July 8, 2007
Pregnancy Check-list
Nausea. (All day). Check.
Fatigue. (I feel like a different person). Check.
Water Retention. Check.
Voracious Appetite. Check.
Emotional. (I cried to sleep the other night). Check.
Sleeplessness. (Toss & turn all night). Check.
The latest thing?
I'm breaking out like a pubescent teenager. (Apparently, that's on the list, too--thank you hormones). Check.
I'm ready to move on into the second trimester where I can start checking off more pleasant things, like:
Burst of energy
Pregnancy glow
No more nausea
July 3, 2007
Two Years & a Baby
Yesterday was our two year anniversary! Two years of marriage and a baby on the way...craziness. Tonight we went to the CUBS game at RFK Stadium vs. The Nationals. It was baby Hall's first Cubs game!! Gotta teach 'em young...
June 27, 2007
Week 10!!
Week Ten
Baby is now called a fetus in "medical terms". You, however, may have chosen the name "peanut," "angel," "jumping bean" or simply "miracle." The most critical part of your infant's development is complete. Now you are headed into a period of rapid growth.While a bit strange to envision, your baby's head is now about half its length - Soon the rest of the body's growth will catch up but this area is prepared to keep up with the rapid brain development! Eyelids fuse shut and irises begin to develop - Eye color is also determined by this point. Placenta begins to function this week or next - The placenta is the organ responsible for both the provision of nutrients along with the removal of waste to keep your baby growing strong! Your baby will be about 1.22 inch long (3.1cm) and weigh 0.14 ounce (4gm) at the end of this week
June 26, 2007
Night Shift
So, I noticed that the anesthesia department's ultrasound machines we have where I work are the same ones they have in the OBGYN clinic... Tonights mission: obtain a few more pictures! With permission... of course!
June 25, 2007
Bad T-shirts
So, this is the t-shirt everyone says not to get... but sometimes, I just want people to know I'm pregnant and my belly is preparing to house a human being. I'm not chubby!! Another tactic, a friend of mine offered was to simply rub my belly a lot to let people know that I'm pregnant. She said, "People rub pregnant bellies, not fat bellies!" I really don't mind... but things are starting to get a bit snug....
Knocked Up
I recently saw Knocked Up, the movie. I don't usually go for the vulgar, rude kind of movies, but I have to say--it was hilarious! I was a mess during the movie...I was crying, laughing, pensive... I sobbed everytime she had another ultrasound and it showed the baby's development. I was warned not to see it while pregnant, but I thought that's one "don't" I'll have to ignore!
TLC
So now I'm totally sucked into TLC's Baby Stories and Bringing Home Baby shows. What's great is that Charles will actually watch them with me!! He's watched a couple with me and says it brings to light things to think about and anticipate. Meanwhile, I watch it solely for the emotions and to cry. At least we both get something out of it.
At 9 Weeks...
My new resident is nearly an inch long — barely the size of a grape — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce, but he's poised for rapid weight gain now that his basic physical structure is in place. He's also starting to look more and more human. His embryonic "tail" is now completely gone and his body parts — including organs, muscles, and nerves — are kicking into gear.
His eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. He has earlobes, and by week's end, the inner workings of his ears will be complete. His upper lip is fully formed, too, and his mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The tips of his fingers are slightly enlarged where his touch pads are developing. All major joints — his shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles — are working, enabling your baby to move his limbs. As for his heart, it has divided into four chambers now, and the valves have started to develop. External sex organs are there, but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks.
June 21, 2007
Baby's Hall's other snapshot. 9 weeks 1 day.
June 21, 2007
Our First Ultrasound
After much anticipation, we finally got to have our first prenatal check-up and ultrasound!!! I couldn't do anything productive the morning of, except watch "Bringing Baby Home" on TLC, which I'd never seen before. I was in tears! Anyhow, at the appointment we got Baby Hall's first snapshots during which we could see his little heart beating and see him wiggle around. Our midwife was really cool and answered a lot of our questions. After Baby Hall was measured, we received a more accurate time frame. I am officially 9 weeks and 1 day as of the appointment and we are now due January 23rd. All of which is still subject to change!
June 19, 2007
Indecision
I can't decide if I'm showing or not showing. Some days, I feel huge already; other days, I feel like I haven't changed at all. Either way, I worry. If I feel like I'm showing, I wonder if I'm showing too much, too soon and gaining weight too fast. If I don't feel like I'm showing, I worry that I'm not gaining enough weight! If I'm having a good day (i.e. no nausea), I worry if everything's alright. If I'm having a more difficult day, I feel awful. I can't win!
June 16, 2007
Baby's Wardrobe
I think it's easy to say that there are always going to be a few themes that are in our lives and our children's!
June 16, 2007
Morning sickness?
Morning sickness, I've learned, is not just in the morning. It haunts me all day long. Until last night, I had only been queasy, dry heaving and gagging. Last night, however, was a different story. I did what I'd been dreading all along. I vomitted. I made this awful, awfully painful wretching noise and everything I'd eaten came flying out. I didn't make it to the toilet, but I made it to the bathroom sink. Gross. My wonderful and loving husband knew just what to do. He cleaned up the sink for me and then he ran me a nice, hot, bubble bath. He's the best.
(Sorry if the content of this entry is graphic... I forget that not everyone is in the medical field...)
New Tactics...
So, today, Charles and I are going to try new tactics. Food looks increasingly disgusting, but I am so hungry at times! I couldn't even eat dinner last night after Charles slaved in the kitchen. I am going to graze all day on light and bland items. Lots of fruits, since I don't particularly like veggies. I need to find a way to get 300 more healthy calories a day and lots more protien. All of these things are very difficult when food is really not appetizing and when I don't cook. I guess it's time to learn...
June 4, 2007
Pregnancy Orientation
In order to get the pregnancy process started off correctly at the hospital, we had to attend a 4-hour pregnancy orientation class. It was both enlightening and terrifying. The videos and lectures discussed all the do's and don't do's and it seemed as if the list was 10 times longer for the don't do's. Things that ordinarily would be fine to eat, were no longer safe.
However, it was exciting to be in a room full of other pregnant couples and expectant parents. It still felt surreal and I couldn't believe that Charles and I are at that time in our lives!
We did find out that because I got pregnant before I separated from the Navy, I am still eligible for health care compliments of the Navy until 6 weeks after we give birth! That was surely a relief!
May 29, 2007
No Surgery for me...
I was scheduled for an elective oral surgery today. We went in as planned, but Charles and I already decided that I wouldn't have the surgery while pregnant. This time, someone else was doing the pregnancy test, and I would be sure that it really was positive. I don't know why I couldn't believe it myself! So, off the corpsman went with my test. A few minutes later she came back in and in a sing-song sort of way she said, "It's positive!" It was like finding out for the first time all over again. And my surgery was cancelled.
I had to go and tell my boss and she surprisingly let me have the rest of the day off to celebrate. But I had to work the rest of the week...
Sunday, May 28, 2007
Not a dream!
Call me crazy, but I woke up this morning and took another pregnancy test. I didn't want it to be a dream. I wanted it to be real. I was worried that maybe I took the test wrong. So, I took the other one. I was relieved and yet surprised again that it was positive! It was surreal. I couldn't believe that this life was forming inside of me... Everything, everything, was going to be different from now on.
Saturday, May 27, 2007
Setting the stage...
Let me preface this first by saying that Charles and I were in complete denial.
I was in Chicago the weekend of May 12 and that was the weekend I was supposed to have my cycle.
About a week later, I remember saying to Charles that I thought my chest was getting bigger. And I kept saying it. About a week after that, I said it again. I said that my chest also hurt. So, naturally, I thought it was going to be that time of the month.
A week after that, my chest was now tender, sore, and heavier. Charles finally agreed! That brings us to today.
Weekend on the boat...
Dad and Barb are in town to visit us and we are spending the weekend on the boat. In the moments that Charles and I are able to sneak private conversations, I ask him to pick up two pregnancy tests. (Two, so I can double check.) We take off for a sail and a little while into it, I am excited because I finally have to use the bathroom. I signalled to Charles that I was going to take one of the tests. So, there I am in a tiny boat bathroom in 90 degree weather taking a pregnancy test... and slowly watching it turn positive. Immediately I started crying... and my hands started shaking. Amazing. I quickly tried to compose myself since Dad and Barb were above and I wasn't sure if we'd tell people right away. Charles looked confused as I emerged. But I couldn't stop crying! So I gave him a thumbs up when we finally made eye contact and this super-excited grin spread accross his face! I crawled to the top of the boat and just nuzzled and he whispered, "Can we tell them?" I said yes... we couldn't keep this news to ourselves!
A prediction...
We told Dad and Barb and they said they already knew! They had caught me unconsciously rubbing my stomach all weekend. Barb said she knew because my chest was undeniably bigger! Barb said, "Show me your hands". So, I put out my hands, flipped them over, and back again. She gasped and predicted we were going to have twins! If you flip them that means twins! Woa!
More confirmation...
Today was sooooo amazing and overwhelming, I will never forget it! It was as if suddenly, everything in our world changed! I guess it hadn't completely sunk in, so by the end of the day, I took another pregnancy test. Positive!
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