3 Months (12/13/2012)

Dear Ben,

These weeks and months are just flying by!  You are already almost 15 weeks old and yesterday was your first Christmas!  We had a 3 day weekend and we were quite busy the whole time! On Saturday we went out to lunch with Daddy, Uncle Joe, Auntie Anna, Nana, and Great-Auntie Gail.  You were so good!  Everyone wanted to hold you, but you were so content in your carseat until after we were done eating.  After lunch, the girls went to the Nutcracker and you went home with Daddy for some bonding.  You were awake almost the whole time I was gone, but daddy said you guys had fun!  On Sunday you got to meet your cousin Theo and you even wore adorable matching outfits!  You were a little angel for the pictures, even when Teddy whacked you in the face! :) We had an "eve of the eve" party on Sunday night.  Again, you were a little sweetie pie the whole time!  On Christmas Eve, we brought some food, clothes, and toys to a family who is less fortunate than we are.  Daddy and I met them the other day when we dropped off a gift for their little girl.  Her dad is in jail, so we were happy to help!  We want you to learn that it is really fun to give gifts, not just receive them!  Even though you won't remember this activity this year, we are going to try and do this every year.  Later that day, we went to great-grandma's house and then to mass at 10:00pm.  You slept in Daddy's arms until Auntie Anna decided she wanted to hold you.  You instantly started squirming, so you ended up in my arms and immediately fell back to sleep.  On Christmas morning, Grandpa, Nana, Auntie Anna, and Uncle Joe came over to open presents.  You slept in Nana's arms the whole time!  You were such a good boy this year though, and Santa brought you lots of stuff!  You got even more stuff at great-grandma's that afternoon and then again at Nana and Papa's house.  You slept most of the day, but were a little angel whenever you were awake.  I should also mention that you went to see Santa at the mall earlier this month.  It was a bit rushed since there was a line and all, and since you had just woken up from a nap, you were a little sleepy.  It wasn't out favorite picture of you since you look a bit angry, but since it was your first time seeing Santa, we left with $37 worth of Santa + Ben pics.  (1 pose, I might add)  Your dear daddy has to share his birthday with baby Jesus!  We celebrated his birthday a week early so that he still got to have his own celebration. :)

That is a quick summary of the Christmas festivities, but another highlight was your baptism on December 2!  As always, you were so good.  You did not make a peep the entire mass, even when water was dumped on your little head.  Your godmother and godfather are SO proud of you and love you a LOT.  They both fight over who gets to hold and snuggle you.  You wore the Baptismal gown that your godparents and I wore.  Nana sewed all of our names on it.  It is really cool.  You looked handsome as you always do!  We had a big party for you afterwards and it was so nice outside--no jackets needed!

You are SO smiley these days!  You have such a big smile that anyone who sees it cannot help but to smile too.  And you make the sweetest little cooing noises too.  You are getting better at sleeping at night.  You still prefer to sleep on momma or daddy, but you sleep pretty nicely in your bed.  I can't forget to  mention that you little tummy has healed up SO nicely!  No more dressing changes needed. Woohoo!

On a sad note, I went back to work.  Boo!!!  Even though I know you are in good hands while I am working, I miss you SO much!  Luckily Nana sends me pics of you throughout the day.  I feel guilty that I leave you at home, but I work to make your life better!  I also have to work to get insurance for you, since they only offer benefits to full-time employees.  I hope you aren't mad about this!  Trust me, I would rather be home with you than do pretty much anything!  I love you to the moon and back, baby boy!  You were by far the best gift this year!

1st Christmas!

Santa Baby!

Happy Baptism Day!

Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2 Months (11/13/2012)

Dear Benjamin,

Are you really 2 moths already?  Time is sure flying quickly!  I feel like you are getting bigger every day!  You were 8 pounds 12 ounces and 21.5 inches at your last doctor appointment.  That puts you in the 3rd percentile for height and you're not quite on the charts for weight, but you continue to grow nicely.  I am not surprised that you're growing because your little appetite has certainly increased.  I think you have been going through a growth spurt recently!  You are eating about every 2-3 hours during the day, sometimes more.  Your sleeping is also getting better.  Actually, you have always been a great sleeper, you were/are just a little particular about where you sleep!  I think your favorite place to rest is in someone's arms.  However, you are getting a little more social so now instead of sleeping in my arms, you like to be awake in my arms.  You also went through a phase where you only wanted to sleep in mommy and daddy's bed. You would sleep like an angel in there, sometimes for 5-6 hours at a time, but we know that that wasn't the safest place for you.  Although you were not a fan of your bassinet for awhile, you are now sleeping in there again, at least at night! You are waking up usually twice a night to eat, and then you go back to sleep so nicely!  You are also becoming quite the talker, and it is so cute!  Daddy and I just love the little noises you make!  We have conversations everyday. You tell me all of your thoughts!  We got the OK from your surgeon to put you on your tummy more, so we are going to increase your tummy time. You are really good at lifting up your little head!  It is still a little floppy at times, but it is definitely improving.  Your little baby legs are super strong!  You like to stand up when I'm holding you.  I think that is because you like to have a better view of the scenery.  As I am writing this, you will be 10 weeks tomorrow (Thanksgiving ) and that means only 2 weeks until I have to go back to work...boo!  I wish I could hang out with you all day everyday! At least you will be in good hands. I love you soooo much!

Maggie's 30th Birthday party! Dress like the decade you were born in.

You got to meet your future wife, Maddie, finally!

Snuggling is your favorite!

On November 5, you had a bilateral hernia repair.  Momma was a mess, but you were so brave!

  We went to Jen & Tyler's wedding while you stayed with grandpa. We all had a blast!

1 Month (10/13/2012)

Dear Benjamin,

Your daddy and I cannot believe how fast your first month went!  We already can't imagine our lives without you!  We think you are the sweetest little guy.  You are very easy going and only seem to get upset if you are hungry.  You are not a huge fan of diaper changes, but lately you have been getting through those without a peep!  You love listening to mommy sing, even though I don't have the greatest voice.  You haven't shown too much interest in your puppy, but she seems to like you, even when you cry.  Your favorite thing is bath time!  You can be squaking away, but the second we put you in the tub, you are a happy little guy!  You just sit there wide-eyed, looking around, looking content.  We have seen a few smiles here and there, but we are waiting for them to be more purposeful. You are slowly getting the hang of nursing, which will be nice so your momma can stop pumping every 3 hours, all day and all night!  You will never go hungry, baby boy!  You weigh 6# 13 ounces, which is quite a lot considering you barely weighed 5# when we brought you home from the hospital.  Overall, you are just the best baby ever!  Daddy and I say that all of the time.  I could write about you forever!  I love you so much!  Here are some highlights from your first month:

10/9/2012--Your first dinner out!  I was nervous but you were SO good!

Unfortunately, I only kept up with the chalkboard for the first month.

You sure love getting clean!

Cutest pumpkin ever!!

Good thing you weren't big enough to want to pick a pumpkin. They were ALL rotten so we had to buy pumpkins that were already picked. We will go elsewhere next year. :)

Skele-Ben!

Happy Birthday, Benjamin Andrew!

Ok, clearly I didn't really write this on his birthday, at the exact minute he was born, but I had to get the correct date/time in there.  :)

I have his birth story written in my journal, and maybe some day I'll type it up, but for now, here are some pictures from baby boy's first few days of life!

Before Heading to the Hospital!

Ready to Officially Become Mommy and Daddy!

Off to the NICU Goes Baby and Daddy!

Most Handsome Baby Ever (even with all of those tubes)

First family photo! (Even though I had to wait almost 8 hours to meet you, baby boy!)

The Packers played the Bears on your birthday...and won!

"Momma, do you realize that it is 1:00 in the morning? Will you always hang out with me at this time?"

Sweet Baby Boy

I Love My Daddy

I Also Love My Mommy.

My First Outfit!

Week 37

37 Weeks: 9/12/2012

How far along? 37 weeks (Tomorrow is baby's bday!!!)
Maternity clothes?  I was thinking this would be my last day for maternity clothes, but who knows when I'll be able to fit in my old clothes again!
Best moment this week: I anticipate that tomorrow will be the best day of my life!  I get to meet my baby boy face to face!
Sleep:  I hope I get some sleep tonight!
Miss anything? Working out and being in shape.  I feel like a big blob these days.   Yes, I second this sentiment from last week.
Movement: Still swimming away, thank goodness!!
Food cravings:  No.
Anything making you queasy or sick: No.  What a nice pregnancy, queasy-wise.
Labor signs: Nope.
Exercise: I've been pretty close to sedentary for the majority of this pregnancy, why change now?  I will, however, return to my working out ASAP after little peanut is here!
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy doesn't even begin to describe it!
Looking forward to: This goes without saying (typing)---tomorrow is Baby Fish's bday!!!!!!!

Week 36

36 Weeks: 9/5/2012

How far along? 36 weeks (Holy cow!)
Maternity clothes?  Only have to put together a few more "work" outfits!  I still prefer sundresses.
Best moment this week: Getting the c-section date finalized!  September 13th it is!
Sleep:  It isn't bad, but I've been waking up at 4:00am pretty regularly and then I have trouble falling back to sleep.  I'm not complaining though.  Surprisingly, I haven't really been too tired.
Miss anything? Working out and being in shape.  I feel like a big blob these days.
Movement: He is still moving a lot!  I love it.
Food cravings:  No.
Anything making you queasy or sick: No.
Labor signs: Only those Braxton Hicks contractions, but that's nothing new.
Exercise: Does watching Andy do the Tough Mudder this weekend count?
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy!  Extra happy and excited!
Looking forward to: Meeting out baby boy in less than 1 week!  Ahhh!!!!

Week 35

35 Weeks: 8/29/2012

How far along? 35 weeks
Maternity clothes?  I'm still wearing them!
Best moment this week:  Nothing beats a good doctor's appointment or two.
Sleep:  My sleep has been pretty good.  It seems like the bathroom breaks might be increasing in frequency, but I can usually fall back to sleep very quickly.
Miss anything? Being in good shape!  Or at least sort of good shape!
Movement: He is moving nicely!
Food cravings:  No cravings, just a hefty appetite.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.
Labor signs: No way.
Exercise: I am mostly just walking, but I did do the stationary bike at the gym the other day.  I (still) miss really working out.
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy!
Looking forward to: We are celebrating my mom and sister's birthdays this weekend!  (2 of Baby Fish's hugest fans!)  We should also find out Baby Fish's OFFICIAL c-section date this week!

Week 34

34 Weeks: 8/22/2012

How far along? 34 weeks
Maternity clothes? Still wearing them, of course.  Wondering how long it will be until I don't need them anymore...
Best moment this week: Again, I love a good doctor appointment!
Sleep:  I just realized that I must have accidentally deleted the sleep category.  Sleep has been pretty good.  Aside from waking up to go to the bathroom, I have been sleeping quite well.  I have a body pillow that seems to be working for me.  Occasionally waking up with right leg cramps.  I can't complain though.
Miss anything? Working out.
Movement: He continues to move a lot!  I love that I can pretty much feel him move within a minute any time I want to.
Food cravings:  Nope.  I still eat a lot, but it has been several days since I have needed a midnight snack.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.
Labor signs: No way.
Exercise: I'm just walking these days.  I miss working out, but less than 3 weeks to go.  (Although I suppose I can't REALLY work out for another 8 weeks after that...sigh)
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy!
Looking forward to: Meeting our baby boy!!

Week 33

33 Weeks: 8/15/2012

How far along? 33 weeks
Maternity clothes? I've got to get in all the maternity sundress wearing that I can!  Fall is just around the corner and I CANNOT wait!
Best moment this week: I think I could mention the "having a great doctor appointment" for every week since we have weekly ultrasound visits from now on!  So happy that everything is going well!  His bday will likely be September 13!!!  I also should mention that I am having a PERFECT 30th birthday! :)  Farmer's market, sidewalk sales in the Third Ward (found cute deals at Broadway Paper AND Anthropologie), lunch at the Milwaukee Public Market with my dad and hubby, dinner tonight is still to be determined but life is good!
Miss anything? Working out.
Movement: Lots of it!  Some of his kicks are super powerful. :)
Food cravings:  I think the extreme appetite may have subsided a tiny bit, but I still need my midnight snack prevention program.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.
Labor signs: No way.
Exercise: Just walking these days.  It is finally getting cool enough to walk the dog!
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy!
Looking forward to: The baby being here in 26 days!

Week 32

32 Weeks: 8/8/2012

How far along? 32 weeks
Maternity clothes? Still wearing them but trying not to buy too many more!  Gotta find something cute for the bump pics we are having taken this weekend!
Best moment this week: Having a great doctor's appointment this week!  Having a good appointment makes my day, week, time to next appointment!
Miss anything? Being in shape, not getting winded taking the stairs at work, decreased lung capacity, etc.  But I'm not complaining!
Movement: Lots and lots of movement and I LOVE it!
Food cravings:  Again, just hungry all the time.  I'm still needing the occasional 4:00am snack and I'm still doing my midnight snack prevention program.  How I haven't gain 100lbs is beyond me.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.
Labor signs: No, thank you.
Exercise: Just walking these days.  I missed the last 2 weeks of yoga.  They probably think I had the baby!
Happy or moody most of the time:  Happy!
Looking forward to: A baby shower for Baby Fish today! :)  I am also hoping that we pick a c-section date for baby soon! :)

Week 31

31 Weeks: 8/1/2012

How far along? 31 weeks
Maternity clothes? I I invested in one more maternity skirt for work, well, make that a few more things.  (I forgot I ordered some stuff from Gap.)  I am trying not to buy too much more maternity stuff, but being comfortable is just so darn important to me!
Best moment this week: Again, finding out that baby boy is doing well.  We had a biophysical profile and a non-stress test yesterday.  Thankfully he is going to stay put for now!
Miss anything? Running and sleeping through the night.
Movement:  Yes, thankfully.  I wouldn't mind feeling some more though!
Food cravings:  No cravings, I'm still just hungry all the time.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope.
Labor signs: No, and they can stay away.
Exercise: I'm doing less and less it seems.  Yoga once a week!
Happy or moody most of the time:  Worried!  I am happy but I just want this little babe to be healthy!
Looking forward to: My friend Stacy's wedding!  I'm a little nervous to drive 3 hours there and back, but the doc said it was OK as long as I'm feeling OK.

Week 30

30 Weeks: 7/25/2012

How far along? 30 weeks
Maternity clothes? I found a few clearance skirts at Target!  I don't think they are actually maternity and they are not as professional looking as I would have liked, but they are comfortable which is my priority these days!  Now I am thinking I may need more tops as my tummy continues to grow.
Best moment this week: Finding out that Baby Fish is doing well!  I had quite a scare on Tuesday.  He wasn't moving as much as usual, so I ended up going in to the doc and they did a biophysical profile test.  He got an "A+" thankfully!  My amniotic fluid level is a bit high, so that could be the reason I am not feeling as many movements as I would like!
Miss anything? Not really.  I do miss sleeping through the night, I suppose.
Movement:  Yep!  He has perked up a bit since Tuesday and has been moving like crazy!
Food cravings:  No cravings, just hungry often.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Strong odors are not my thing!
Labor signs: No, and I think the Braxton Hicks contractions have decreased.
Exercise: I'm still doing yoga, arm weights, and dog walks!
Looking forward to:  We have another fetal/maternal doc appointment tomorrow, but since we just had an appointment on Tuesday, I'm not too anxious for this one.  SUPER excited for my friends Jen and Tyler's wedding shower this weekend in Lake Geneva!  I haven't seen them in way too long!

Week 29

29 Weeks: 7/18/2012

(**Docs said I would deliver at 39 weeks at the latest!!**)

How far along? 29 weeks
Maternity clothes? Slowly but surely, my clothes are getting a little more snug.  I may need to invest in a new maternity skirt or 2 for work.  I have been wearing a non-maternity skirt with an elastic waist, but even that one is not as comfortable as it use to be.
Best moment this week: I had the most beautiful, thoughtful, and creative baby shower!  It was seriously the cutest shower ever!  My fabulous hostesses (mom, mother in law, sis Anna, cousin Maria, and amazing friend Maggie) planned out every last detail just perfectly. I wish I would have taken some better pics, but I'll try and post a few.  Everything from the food to the decor and of course the company was just perfect!  Not to mention, Baby Fish was spoiled with wonderful gifts!
Miss anything? Working out more intensely.
Movement:  Swimming along nicely. :)
Food cravings:  Just food in general!
Anything making you queasy or sick:  I am getting a little more sensitive to smells again.  Ick.  Easy on the perfume/cologne, people!
Labor signs: No, just those Braxton Hicks contractions.
Exercise: Yoga and arm weights these days.  We also go on walks when it is not too too hot!
Looking forward to:  My friend Amy had her baby today!!  We had yoga last night, and then what do you know, the little man decided to make his debut a month early.  Thankfully mom and baby are doing great!  I got to meet him already too and he is such a sweetheart.   I'm looking forward to Baby Fish meeting him as well!   I'm also excited that we are going to a wedding this weekend!  I hope it isn't too hot since it is going to be outside on the rooftop of the Milwaukee Athletic Club.  It should be fun though!  :)

Week 28

28 Weeks: 7/11/2012

How far along? 28 weeks
Maternity clothes? Thankfully, this week isn't as hot has it has been!  (It still hasn't rained in ages though!)  Just trying to stay cool and comfortable: skirts and tanks or dresses.
Best moment this week: We had 2 doctors appointments this week and got our best ultrasound pics yet!  I also passed my glucose tolerance test with flying colors.  We had a fabulous time up north too!
Miss anything? Not really, just sleeping through the night, but I know that is practice for things to come. :)
Movement:  He is still moving away!  I get nervous if I don't feel him move for awhile though.
Food cravings:  I continue to have quite the appetite!  I still have to do my "midnight snack prevention program," yet unfortunately I still need a 4:00am snack on occasion!
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No, but I should have mentioned last week that I am definitely noticing those Braxton Hicks contractions!  They do not hurt, but they do make me nervous that I am going to go into labor too early.
Exercise: Well, the doctor said I should stop running, but I can (and should) keep exercising.  I am going to try and walk more and still do some arm weights.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy most of the time!  This week was a little rough because of some news from the docs, but overall I am still happy and so excited for the little guy to arrive!
Looking forward to: I am having a baby shower this weekend!  My mom, mother-in-law, sis, cousin, and sweet friend Maggie are throwing a baby shower for me and the babe!  Looking forward to seeing everyone!! :)

Week 27

27 Weeks: 7/4/2012

How far along? 27 weeks
Maternity clothes? Yet another hot week!  I continue to try and wear as little clothing as possible.  (Within reason, of course!)
Best moment this week:  Today is the 4th of July which is really high on my list of favorite holidays!  We went to the parade this morning and then over to our friends' house.  It was fun but HOT!  It was over 100 degrees today and tomorrow it is suppose to be even hotter!  We had a great time this past weekend at Cameo Rose Bed and Breakfast.  It was so peaceful!  The B&B is on 120 acres so we did a little hiking until we were too sweaty to continue!  We also made a stop at the New Glarus Brewery.  One of us enjoyed that more than the other. ;)
Miss Anything? Not really, although I miss not being HOT all of the time!
Movement:  He's an active and a strong one!  I love being able to feel AND see his little movements!
Food cravings: Still just craving food in general!  I read today that I now should be trying to eat an extra 450 calories a day!  I hope I'm eating enough healthy stuff for the little man.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor Signs: No!
Exercise:  Still running occasionally and doing some arms and leg exercises.  Too hot for dog walking!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: 6 days until our next ultrasound!  In the mean time, looking forward to this weekend!  We are going to our friend's condo in the Dells area and spending our time eating, lounging, and boating.  More R&R and thankfully it is only suppose to be in the 80's as opposed to the 100's!  Can you tell we are trying to live it up while we have more freedom?  Thank you, sis, for doggy sitting yet again!

Week 26

27 Weeks: 6/27/2012

How far along? 26 weeks
Maternity clothes? Another hot week! (100 degrees today!!)  My new work "uniform" is a skirt, tank, and a light cardigan.  (I only wear the cardigan because I can't wear sleeveless shirts to work!)
Best moment this week:  We bought baby's crib this week, as well as a super comfy glider!  We are taking a little "babymoon" this weekend too!  (We are trying to maximize the fun this summer before our freedom is cut a bit--for a good reason!!)
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  Still loving each and every time I feel him moving!
Food cravings: No, but I continue to have a large appetite!  I have implemented what I call my "midnight snack prevention program" where I try to eat a hearty snack before bed so that I do not wake up SUPER hungry in the middle of the night.  Andy is so sweet in reminding me and giving me ideas of what to eat, but some nights I STILL wake up hungry!  You can tell baby is growing though!
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Exercise: Prenatal yoga is over until the next session starts up in 2 weeks, so that's a bummer!  Still running occasionally and doing some arms and leg exercises.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: I'm excited for the weekend!  We are heading to a little B&B for some R&R!  Hopefully they have AC!

Week 25

25 Weeks: 6/20/2012

(I had to switch tops because I couldn't find the other one.  This is a "maternity" tank that I hadn't worn yet, but I'm not sure it will fit too much longer!)

How far along? 25 weeks
Maternity clothes?  It has been SO hot this week!!  I think I will be wearing skirts or dresses as often as possible!
Best moment this week:  Hmm, this week hasn't been too exciting, which is just fine by me!  I should mention that we began the task of creating our baby registries!  It was a little overwhelming so we have to try again.  So many options...
Miss anything? Not really. I kind of miss being able to have a really good workout without worrying that my heart rate is too high!
Movement:  Still loving each and every time I feel him moving!
Food cravings: No.  I'm eating a lot though.  I think I've gained about 15lbs or so.  I even wake up for occasional midnight (or 2:00am) snacks
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Exercise: I have slowly been able to increase my running distances.  I monitor my heart rate quite closely!  I feel fine, I just want to make sure I'm not stressing the babe. I still alternate between walking and running.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: We do not have any major plans this week aside from a wedding shower this weekend.  Oh, and we're going strawberry picking...YUM!  My fave!

Week 24--From Wisconsin!!

24 Weeks: 6/13/2012

How far along? 24 weeks
Maternity clothes?  I've switched back to "work" clothes now that I'm state-side again, but skirts and dresses are definitely the most comfortable.
Sleep: It took me awhile to get my sleep back on schedule, but it has still been quite good.
Best moment this week: Doctor appointments, of course!  I feel like I say this all of the time, but I get so nervous and excited for all of these appointments!  Today's appointment was great though!  He is growing right on track and we couldn't be happier!  We got some of the 3D (or is it 4D?) pics and although a little hard to see, he looks sooo cute!  They estimate his weight to be 1lb and 3 oz!  His little head circumference is a whopping 5.9cm!
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  Yes!  Andy felt the little guy kick for the first time today!
Food cravings: No.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Exercise:  I decided to add a new category!  I've been trying to get to the gym on a regular basis.  I'm still doing weekly prenatal yoga at the gym.  I also have been into this 10 minute prenatal pilates DVD.  I do a few of the 10 minute blocks at a time and which makes it seem very manageable.  I've also been running/walking but not more than a mile or two.  I'll alternate between walking 0.25 miles and then running the same distance.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: SUPER excited for my cousin's wedding this weekend!  The weather has been beautiful and I am excited to see family.

(I wrote this at 24w1d but am actually 24w5d in this pic, but I've definitely popped quite a bit more this past week or so!)

Week 23--From Belgium!

23 Weeks: 6/6/2012

How far along? 23 weeks
Maternity clothes?  LOVING my summer clothes!  I bought several non-maternity sundresses a size bigger than usual...so comfy!
Sleep:  Not bad.  I've managed to get pretty good at sleeping on my side.
Best moment this week:  Well, we are still in Europe--Belgium to be exact.  We are hanging out with my bff and her hubby.  I'm feeling good and I'm feeling baby so there are really only good moments this week!
Miss anything?  I must say I am a little bit jealous of the vino that Andy has been enjoying on occasion.  Luckily he has been more focused on the beers, which doesn't temp me at all.
Movement:  Yes!  Feeling lots more movement!  Andy is still waiting to feel anything though!  As soon as Andy puts his hand on my belly, the movements seems to stop.  Soon I'm sure!
Food cravings: No.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Nope.
Labor signs: No!
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: I love being in Europe, but it will be nice to be home too!  And of course looking forward to our next doctor appointment on Thursday.

Week 22--From Paris!

22 Weeks: 5/31/2012

How far along? 22 weeks
Maternity clothes?  Loving wearing the wardrobe mentioned in last week's post: sundresses, tanks, and leggings!
Sleep:  I think I officially have to say a temporary adios to sleeping on my tummy, trying to get use to the whole side sleeping thing.
Best moment this week:  Well, I am writing this from Paris!  We saw a bunch of sites today and lit a candle at Notre Dame for baby boy.  We are loving our hotel and this whole city in general.
Miss Anything? No.
Movement:  Still wishing there was more movement!  I can't wait until Andy can feel them either!
Food cravings: No.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: Heading to Belgium to see Joe and Sarah!

Week 21

21 Weeks: 5/23/2012

How far along? 21 weeks
Maternity clothes?  Same old work pants with a few skirts thrown in there.   However, I bought a bunch of sundresses for Europe! Sundresses and leggings and tanks will be my wardrobe for the next 2 weeks.  Sounds oh so comfy. :)
Sleep: I still cant complain about sleep!
Best moment this week: Just getting ready for our trip! Oh and that Andy came home safely from Las Vegas!
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  Still feeling kicks, I wish it was more often for my peace of mind.
Food cravings:  No.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to:  Leaving tomorrow for 2 whole weeks in Europe--Belgium, Germany, France, and Italy!

Week 20

20 Weeks: 5/16/2012

How far along? 20 weeks (half way there!!)
Maternity clothes?  Just the work pants and some leggings, which are probably the most comfortable things ever.
Sleep: Good--I've had a few nights where I haven't had to get up to go to the bathroom!
Best moment this week: Receiving great news at all (FOUR) of our doctor's appointments!!!
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  Yes!  Feeling some little tiny baby boy kicks!  And I love them!!!
Food cravings: Not really.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Nope.
Labor Signs: No!
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!  (All of the time!)
Looking forward to: Auntie Anna (lil sis) graduates from college this weekend!!  And getting ready for our European adventure!

Week 19

19 Weeks: 5/9/2012

How far along? 19 weeks
Maternity clothes?  Bought a few more maternity clothing items, but I still mainly just wear my Monday through Friday work pants!  (As in the same pair everyday...)
Sleep: Good, aside from those bathroom breaks.
Best moment this week: It was kinda my first mother's day!  I think it still counts even when little man in still in the womb!  We went over to my cousin's house for brunch.  In the afternoon, I went to Peter Pan (the ballet) with my mom, sister, and Andy's mom.  It was so good!  For dinner, we had my mom and John as well as Andy's parents over for dinner.  All in all, a fabulous day!  Super jam-packed, just how we tend to do every holiday!  Another fun thing this week was starting prenatal yoga with my friend Amy!
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  A few more kicks maybe...I hope....
Food cravings: Not really.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  No.
Labor signs: No!
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to:  We have our 20 week ultrasound AND the fetal echocardiogram AND the meeting with the pediatric surgeon this week.  Needless to say, it will be an intense week!  Hopefully with lots of good news!!

Week 18

18 Weeks: 5/2/2012

How far along? 18 weeks
Maternity clothes?  Still rocking the same pants M-F.  Don't NEED maternity tops, but I wear a few here and there.
Sleep: Good--I've had a few nights where I haven't had to get up to go to the bathroom!
Best moment this week: Last weekend, Andy and I went to visit some of his family in Prairie Du Chien, WI.  We went with his parents and it was a fun little road trip!  His aunt and uncle recently bought a house on a bunch of land (35 acres, I believe) and it was so beautiful out there!  I'm totally a city girl, but being out in the middle of nowhere (hope that's not offensive) definitely has it's perks!  It was a nice and relaxing weekend.
Miss anything? Not really.
Movement:  I think a few kicks but I really have to concentrate.
Food cravings: Not really.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Nada!
Gender: Still a boy!  (I think I can delete this one...)
Labor Signs: No!
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to:  Baby shower for my friend this weekend! :)  She's having a boy in June.  Still counting down the days until the next ultrasound!

Week 17

17 Weeks: 4/25/2012

(Maybe not quite the size of a softball, but daddy made this one and a softball is better than an onion.  Either way, baby is around 5 inches and weighs 5 ounces!)


How far along? 17 weeks
Maternity clothes?  Just pants.  I only have 1 pair though so I basically wear them Monday through Friday
Sleep: Good
Best moment this week: Ultrasound, of course!  Both of my parents and Andy were there!
Miss anything?  I was missing Jimmy John's this week.  (Slim 4!  mmmm!)
Movement:  I think I MAY have felt a few flutters while I was getting a massage.
Food cravings: Not really.
Anything making you queasy or sick:  Just the extreme smells.
Gender: Still a boy!  Saw his boy parts on ultrasound!
Labor Signs: No, thank goodness!
Symptoms:  Not many.
Happy or moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to:  Getting more of a bump so I don't just look like I'm getting some extra chub now that I'm married. :)