Nerd Alert

I will admit it. I was head photographer in high school for our yearbook. We actually developed film in a dark room.

I swear I wasn't a nerd. At least I didn't think I was.

Clearly I don't remember one thing from back then because I need suggestions...for a 'fancy' camera...one that can be manual and that can take better than average pictures. I get so jealous looking at other's blogs and the photography is amazing. Such clear, beautiful pictures. I am looking for something under $1,000 that is good for beginners, that I can learn from and hopefully develop some skills. I plan on taking a class after the New Year to help get the basics.

Any ideas?

Blogger's Block

I seem to be having a block. I think of all these things to write about, but when I actually sign in and start, nothing comes to me. Life seems to be floating by slowly and I so badly want it to hurry up. I thought I would be able to sit back and enjoy this pregnancy, but I find myself anxious all the time.

We hit a big milestone...24 weeks. I am feeling relieved, but I guess when you struggle to get here, the fear never really goes away.

Little one is still freaking me out with his movements (or lack there of). I mean I am almost 25 weeks and some days it is still hard to determine if he is moving at all. I guess that is what happens when you are 5'11 and you have a uterus the size of a gymnasium.

I finally found a stroller I like. It is called the Vista by Uppababy. It also has an adapter so it will go with my Graco carseat. I am super excited! It even has an extender so it is perfect for us tall people!

I also ordered my bedding. It is simple and beautiful and I can't wait for it to get here. I only have to wait 6 to 8 weeks (are you kidding me!??!).



We think we have narrowed down names to two: Luke or Tucker. Any thoughts on these??? Be honest! I need help!

It's Happening...

I just saw a very small liquid come out of my left nipple. Help! The lactation has begun. Oh, and I finally gave in and here is a 23 week belly pic. It is a bit blury and you see the toilet paper in my bathroom, but you get the idea :)

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving...

Here is something that makes me so happy and thankful...one of my pups snoozing away!

(sorry about the poor quality since it was taken on my blackberry)

The Good And The Bad

Today started off good...actually it started of great! I had a doctor's appointment where I got to hear our little one's heartbeat pumping away at 148. I love getting the reassurance that these appointments bring and look forward to each and every one. Next one...November 30th.

So really the day started out good and nothing was really bad throughout the day either. But right now when I should be getting into bed, instead I am sitting here staring at my computer frustrated. Frustrated with those at work, with friends, with myself. I am not sure why really...just am. I guess this might be one of those 'hormonal' days I read about in the pregnancy books and websites. I really haven't had them before now, unless an issue or an event (aka crazy work) really provoked it, but tonight is different. I feel restless, worried and unsettled with those around me.

I hope that these feelings are gone tomorrow and that I can refocus on what is good!

UGHH!!!

We have no idea what to name our son!!!!!

Can you tell I am frustrated? Everyone says "It will just come to you"...ummm, I am not that type of girl. Where things just "come to me". If we don't think of something soon, we will be one of those couples that looks around the room at the hospital after he's born and names the baby "Graco" after its carseat.

Moving and Cribbing

The little man has moved more for me. Thank goodness! I was really starting to panic. Luckily, I was sitting in a meeting yesterday around 11:00 am and started feeling his kicks. He went at it for a good 30 minutes. I feel so much better. I haven't felt a whole lot since, but he seems to hide every few days though.

I am leaving my office early today because I am going to go buy our crib with my mom! I am super excited. I am so ready to get the nursery ready! I am very traditional when it comes to decor, so I have decided on this little number...

I am ordering it from here. I hate to post this picture because I dislike the stain color that they used. It doesn't do it justice for such a sweet, simple bed. Maybe you remember this from when you were growing up...it is a classic Jenny Lind crib. It took me forever, but I finally found someone who makes it in antique white. I think it takes about 6 weeks to come in...just enough time to paint the nursery a butter yellow color!

Worried Is My Middle Name

I am worried. I don't feel the little one consistently yet, but at least once a day I get a few good kicks. It reassures me and makes me comfortable that everything is okay. It is what keeps me going, what keeps me positive and what keeps me excited. I truly wait for them.

But I haven't really felt the baby since Monday. All of a sudden, he no longer is reminding me that he is okay. I thought by now the kicks should be getting stronger as he grows, but instead, they are growing weaker. I will be 21 weeks this Friday. Has this happened to anyone? When should I call the doctor?

On another note, does anyone watch "Deliver Me" on Discovery Health? I am quite obsessed with this channel and have had a love for this particular show for several years. I love the 3 doctors and find myself wishing I was their friend. Anyhoo, last night I was watching an episode and a little baby boy was born. I burst into tears. I can't wait for that to be us. I just hope my worrying is for nothing :)

Quitter

I am still shaking. I just left the office of my boss where I gave her my resignation. Yes, I just quit my job. I am giving her two months notice, so December 18th will be my last day. She was understanding, but at the same time a little freaked out what this means for our team. I have a major case of the guilties, but know that it is the best choice for me and my husband (and future child) and I did the right thing.

The reasons I decided to resign before the baby comes are mostly to do with 1) that my job is out-of-control stressful, 2) that my boss kinda stinks and I don't want to go down on a sinking ship, 3) I am due the day before the biggest event for the organization that I am responsible for and 4) that I haven't had a break in about 7 years.

So I will have about 2 months off before the baby comes. We will be in the poor house, but hopefully will make do :) Most likely I will have to work again once the baby is older, but until then, I will enjoy my time as a mommy.

Half Way There!

How Far Along: 20 weeks!!!
Total Weight Gain: Ummm, I think about 8 pounds or so. Or maybe more by now. I am not quite sure and I kind of like not knowing. Although I think half of that weight is now in my boobs and it is not very attractive.
Maternity Clothes: Yes all the way around. I can't fit into anything pre-maternity. I just have to say that I love that I don't have to suck in (especially after a big meal) and the bigger my tummy gets the better!
Stretch Marks: Unfortunately yes, but on my boobs only. I don't have any on my stomach, but I have a few small ones starting to develop around my nipples. It just stinks and I have no idea what to do! Any suggestions?
Sleep: So so...but I have never been the best sleeper.
Best Moment This Week: Since I don't feel tons of movement yet (the doctor said it is because I am so tall), every time I feel a little thump, I get so excited :)
Food Cravings: Anything bad for me...I might weigh 300 pounds when all this is over!
Sex: Boy! Reminder...we need help on finding a name!
Labor Signs: Nada...phew.
Belly Button: Still in.
What I Miss The Most: Oh, wine....wonderful wine. One day we will be together again.
What I Look Forward To The Most: Holding our little man.
Milestones: Making it half way!