July 27 - Showering Baby Brooke

Thursday was my work shower...and I was blown away! I was thinking it was going to be a nice lunch with lots of verbal "congrats". I was not expecting everything they did - it was amazing. My pregnant coworker and I showed up together and the room was decorated half pink and half blue (she's expecting a boy). There were heaps of gifts in two corners of the room. We ordered lunch and began opening presents simultaneously. Clothes, baby "survival kit", stork with gift card, feeding essentials, Baby Einstein Activity Jumper and an Exersaucer! Again, I was blown away. After lunch, we had chocolate and vanilla petit fours - yum! Oh...and yes, I tried both. :)They even had 2 dozen white roses for each of us (my favorite flower)! It was unexpected and beautiful, and we are so grateful for my sweet coworkers for everything!

  

Friday, my mom accompanied me to my doctor's appointment. Everything was good - baby is measuring right where she should be, mommy has gained less than 20 pregnancy pounds and after next appointment we will be starting our once-a-week visits. 

Friday night,Michael and I decided to go out to a nice dinner (compliments of his parents - thanks for the gift certificate). We got all dressed up - Michael has been losing weight (working so much), while I had some trouble finding something nice to wear. Nonetheless, we made it to Masraff's for our 8 o'clock reservation; a little later than we are used to eating but the only thing they had available as of Friday afternoon. Talk about foodies - we both had a 3-course meal! Michael had a jumbo lump crab cake, herb roasted rack of lamb with broccolini and a butter roasted pear creme brulee. My meal consisted of wild mushroom ravioli, applewood bacon wrapped charred bison ribeye with a truffle re-stuffed gold potato and a warm double chocolate fondant with vanilla bean ice cream. We left with half of our entrees for Saturday's dinner and went straight home to bed.

Saturday was shower day (my final shower, that is). I was not feeling very well upon waking up - my tummy and back were bothering me. I pulled it together and got ready. My mom and I rode out to Cypress, arriving not on time, but early for once. The food was already prepared and looked amazing - fruit salad, Greek pasta salad, hummus, veggies & dip, Hawaiian roll sandwiches, egg salad sandwiches, brownies and cupcakes. There were decorated mason jars for all the guests (to keep as their favor), decorated onesies hanging in the living room, a pendant with Brooke's name and a chandelier, name tags to say how everyone knows me and random games around the room for guests (how many candies in the baby bottle and Price is Right game with baby items). There was also a board filled with pictures of Michael and I both as babies - it was great to see us side by side from babies to young children! We played a couple more games, ate and opened gifts. It was so good to see so many friends and family in the same room - I love all my girls! The hosts did an outstanding job with everything - it was perfect! Thank you Mallory, Ashley, Lisa and Chelsea! Love you all.

We got home with another van full of baby goodies for Brooke! I, of course, had to go through everything again when I got home. Grammy helped me put stuff away and that was the end of another successful shower. Two in one week - that was exhausting at 34 weeks pregnant! Michael and I super grateful for all of our family and friends who have given us gifts, prayers, love and support during the past 8 1/2 months and we cannot wait for the arrival our sweet little girl!

Thank you everyone! xoxo

July 25 - 34 weeks

Tuesday night, Michael and I got home at a decent time and decided to go to the pool, as we had not been in about 3 weeks. It was especially hot outside that afternoon, but the water felt ever so good. Michael said he wanted to take me out to dinner. :) Even as we are saving and preparing to be a family of three, he still manages to treat me so well. After our dip in the pool, we got changed for dinner and decided on Lupe's. Having a meal out on a weeknight is very out of the norm for us, which it made it even more special. It also made me realize just how important these next few weeks are, as it will be our last couple months of just the two of us.

My coworkers are throwing a "Baby Mania" lunch for my coworkers and I. One is due any day and the other has a pregnant wife at home, due about the same time as me. Saturday, will be my last shower, and I'm so excited to see all of my friends! It will be great to finish putting together everything for Brooke's arrival and figure out what we still have left to get (lots of nesting will be had this weekend, I'm sure). And I have a short list of things to do before she comes - make sure everything at work is ready for my leave, hospital bags need to be packed, batteries in all the toys and gadgets, wash her newborn clothes & blankets, finish interviewing & decide on a pediatrician, pick a homecoming outfit for our angel, thank you gifts for nurses....and REST! That is all stuff I want to have done by 36 weeks, with the exception of a couple items, and obviously rest is one I hope to do up until birth!

Today, I am 34 weeks pregnant! Wow. That is more than 8 months that have just blown by! It's unbelievable to think that in less than 6 weeks, our baby girl will be in our arms! My doctor agreed to induce at 39 weeks - so really in a maximum of 5 weeks, we will have our precious baby here with us! :) Pure bliss...

Our baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (about the size of a cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. And just in case, little one decides to come early, babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies. 

As for mommy, my hands are still bothering me in the mornings. However, carpel tunnel is very common among expectant mothers. It gets better as the day goes on, so it's not too bad. I stay very well-hydrated, especially considering the Houston heat, and combined with our growing baby, my bathroom breaks are at all-time high! The headaches and heartburn have been scarce (knock on wood). I am hungry all the time it seems. I blame that on our baby girl, as she is putting on about a 1/2 pound a week, it is causing me to eat more (and gain more)! Sleeping is still a struggle, mostly because of the effort it takes to turn over from one side to the next. I surely miss being able to roll over on my stomach (again, another thing I took for granted and will appreciate even more when this bump is gone). I feel Brooke stretching out inside my tummy and sometimes have to give her a nudge to get out of my rib cage. I wonder all the time how big she is going to be. Michael was 7 1/2 pounds...and I was a whopping 9 1/2 pounds. We are both fairly tall, so it will be interesting to see how long she is coming into the world! Oh...I can't wait to meet you Brooke Leigh! xoxo

July 23

What a fun weekend we had. Definitely long and exhausting, but nothing less than exciting!

Friday, I had a busy day with my mom. I woke up and did some work from home, and she came over and helped with a few chores around the apartment! That always makes me happy - she vacuumed the stairs, which is pretty much impossible for me to even attempt at this point! I had an interview with a pediatrician at 1, so we met with her (which went really well) and then got some lunch. Last we stopped at the grocery store, so she could help me get the groceries up the stairs! It poured down rain while we were shopping, so we just had to spend a few more minutes on the ice cream aisle - no big deal!

After dinner, Michael and I had tickets to a Legacy Fight. Our  friend, Larry is a professional fighter and was competing for the title in his weight class that night. I knew it was going to be a long night, but at least it wasn't a lot of walking! Unfortunately he lost the fight, but we were able to see a lot of our friends who also went. We left before the last fight, to beat the traffic, not to mention Michael had to work in the morning.

Larry Crowe at Legacy FC 21

Saturday, I tried to rest, but managed to do lots of nesting! I reorganized most of the items we got at the last shower. I cleared up a lot of space in the living room, knowing that we will probably need it after this week's showers! We are having a baby shower luncheon for my coworker and I on Thursday...although she has since found out that she could have the baby any day now. So sadly, she may not be able to attend! She is 3 weeks ahead of me, and while her baby may came early, reality is starting to settle in. Our baby could be here in just a few weeks. They say "full-term" is 37 weeks, which is only 3 weeks from Thursday! Wow. So soon...

Brooke's current headband collection,
stored in a crystal jar!

So Saturday night was our company's anniversary party. This year's theme was "Night at the Museum"...proposed by none other than yours truly (that would be me)! The party was mostly planned and executed by some of the others in the department and it was a hit! I hadn't been to the Museum of Natural Science in years, and thought it may be cheesy, not to mention I'm not that interested in a lot of that stuff. However, it was so much fun. The setup was awesome, the fact that we had the whole venue to ourselves was great, there was food everywhere, photo op, two live bands, karaoke, all of the exhibits were open to us, etc! The food...oh my, the food - it really was everywhere! They had mini corn dogs, chicken tenders, egg rolls, pasta station, salad bar, pork slider station, beef fajitas (amazing), mashed potato bar, macaroni n cheese bar, Caesar salad, desserts galore (cake balls, cookies, tiramisu, pound cake, fruit & more) and bananas fosters stations!!! We had to sit down a few times during the night on random benches to give mommy a break from all the walking, but we managed to stay until almost 11! That is two nights in a row of staying up late, way past our bedtime (usually about 9-9:30). We were having so much fun, we really didn't realize how late it was. We knew we were going to sleep like babies though...and we did!

Hall of Paleontology

Butterfly Center

Night at the Museum 7.20.13

Sunday, we woke up with the intentions of going to Cracker Barrel. However, I said we should just cook breakfast at home...and that we did! We had a feast, which is exactly what Michael wanted - french toast, sausage patties, fried eggs and biscuits! It was yummy...and we didn't eat again until dinner time, which was another feast! I was too antsy to sit still and relax on a Sunday, so I went to the kitchen and whipped up a new concoction! Cilantro Chicken Roll-ups - shredded chicken, artichokes, jalapenos and cheese wrapped into a lasagna noodle topped with a creamy cilantro sauce and baked. Not too bad, if I say so myself. :)

Breakfast of Champions

We were in bed early and ready for the week, after a day of mostly rest! The past two days, my obsession with babies has only gotten worse. I am getting more and more anxious to meet our little angel. I can't hardly stand it. I'm really looking forward to dressing her up in all the rompers, bloomers, headbands, bows and more. I even ordered a few wraps for her newborn photos. My friend, Mallory and I are going to become newborn photography experts by the time Brooke is a week old! :)

I love the innocence in newborn photography. These adorable little humans are so new to the world - it's beautiful! Not to mention, my love for the big headbands. The ones pictured above are from BirdieBabyBoutique, whom I am absolutely obsessed with (hint, hint)! I sent these pictures to Grammy and she said none of these pictures will do her justice! :) I just get so giddy looking at these little bundles of joy and can't wait to meet our baby girl!

I love you so much Brooke Leigh Taylor.

July 18 - 33 weeks

This week our baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (about the size of a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. She's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and her skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal in a couple months. These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

Last night Michael and I attended a Newborn Care Class at the hospital. Michael called me at 4, saying he was going to have to stay late and wanted to confirm the time of the class. He was determined to go to the class and too excited to miss it! We ate dinner in a rush and arrived a few minutes late, but didn't miss anything too important. We learned how to swaddle, change diapers, sponge bath a newborn, facts on what products to use or not use, and lots of other useful info for expecting parents. Another class that will come in very handy once PB is here!

I recently came across an article about pregnancy, and while it is a joyous time for a family, there are definitely things that the expecting mommy misses. I think it was spot on and I'd like to share this list with you. Those of you who are not pregnant, be grateful for these things...and for those of you who have yet to have children, you know what to expect!

1. A normal sense of smell

The intensified sense of smell that come from the increase in hormones is unreal. That was one of the first symptoms I noticed before the positive pregnancy test.

2. Adult Beverages
I can certainly live without them, but life is more interesting and sometimes more calming with one. The occassional glass of wine after work, or dinner and ritas with the girls is something I miss. Social settings have changed drastically because of this baby bump, and while it is all worth it there are sometimes I just crave an ice cold beer. I have heard from many other mommies that they also craved alcohol during pregnancy, even those they were not drinkers before. I'm sure that first Dos XX won't even taste that good, and that is why they call it "cravings".

3. Off-limits foods
"You always want what you can't have". Isn't that so true right now. When I first found out I couldn't have deli meat, I wanted sandwiches - Subway, Jimmy John's, Which Wich, etc. These days there are so many "rules" on what is allowed and not. Although I guess they are more so suggestions based on research and probabilities, but why risk it? The main things I miss are deli meat, unpasteurized cheeses (feta, blue, goat, etc), and foods that used to not give me heartburn!

4. Peaceful sleep
A few months ago, I thought my sleeping had changed for the worst, but little did I know it was only going to get worse! Now I can say I miss sleeping straight through the night for a solid 9-10 hours (when possible). I am lucky to get 6-7 now and that's with potty breaks, lots of rolling over (or attempts to roll over) and periods of laying there restless. I know that sleep is not something that is going to happen for months to come, so I guess I am still trying to get used to being restless...

5. Cute shoes
I really, REALLY miss wearing heels. I managed to keep a pair of wedges on for my shower, for the first time in months. I was so nervous! I have never owned so many pairs of flats...and they all fit in such a small area, where as my heels take up much more room. Nonetheless, I miss them all. When I was still in my first trimester other mommies would look at me in shock when I was still wearing heels and I preached that I was going to wear them up until labor... Well, that clearly came to an end a couple months ago. My feet get swollen and there is also the added risk of falling. With this extra weight all in front, my balance is not what it once was, making it more difficult to not fall down the stairs even in flats...so heels are just not a safe thing right now. Hoping my feet don't enlarge, because I will have quite the shoe collection to divvy out...and that would make this one sad mama! 

6. Feeling Stunning
I miss getting dressed up and looking my best. I wear dresses a lot, but that's because they are more comfortable than pants! I try to do my hair and makeup at all times, but that is to help me feel beautiful...and I usually never leave home a mess. I know that once baby comes, all that is going to change even more. Getting all fixed up for a night out and being told you look "amazing" is something I miss. It will be very rewarding once all the baby weight is off and I can fit into one of my fancy pre-pregnancy dresses and know that I look good! :)

7. Just the Two of Us
Michael and I are tired all the time. He has been working long hours and most weekends. I, on the other hand, have been working 40 hours a week and "growing a baby"! It is not easy. We are in bed before 9 almost every night, and sadly when we do have one of those rare days with nothing to do...we don't want to do anything. I miss going out and doing things on a whim - movie night, drinks with friends, a nice romantic dinner, etc. Things have already changed so much and little miss is not even here yet. I love getting ready for her arrival and am so anxious to meet her, but it has definitely changed our relationship already...not in a bad way whatsoever. It is just different and we are both adjusting.

8. Feeling strong and independent
Oh my goodness, it has not been easy to adjust to being so dependent. I have always been the type of person that if I want something done, I do it. At work and at home, it has been difficult trying to step back and not be as engaged. Telling someone else to do something, when it is your job and you know just how to do it, is not an easy task. I have gotten better at reducing my responsibilites, but mostly because I have realized the physical toll it takes on my body. I can't wait to gain back that strength and not feel so helpless. I am not usually one to reach out and ask for help, unless I really need it...and some people have noticed that I've given in and finally requested an extra hand. I know I am pregnant and have started to realize "I can't do it all", so for that I appreciate all the help!

9. Being included
I feel that I have missed out on some things because people assume the pregnant girl doesn't want to be there, and most of the time, they're right. In the beginning it was a harder pill for me to swallow, missing out on girl time and friends' birthdays because I was too tired to attend or the event was at a place not appropriate for a pregnant lady. One of my good friends just had her baby, but a few months ago when we were both pregnant, another friend of ours expresesed that she felt "left out". I assured her it was the other way around - I constantly felt like I was the one singled out. I happy to be nearing the end, but I still try to hold on to these moments as I know I will probably miss these things more when they're gone - the movements from our baby inside my tummy, that only mommy can feel. A few missed birthday parties are worth it...it's gotta just be the hormones! :)

10. My pre-pregnancy body
I miss the way things used to be. Period. I won't go into too much detail, but even though I may seem like all belly that's not the only thing growing. The other day I put on a pair of maternity pants and by the end of the day, I had to practically peel them off my legs! Buying new undergarments to fit during pregnancy, along with clothes and shoes is just the beginning. I apply moisturizing lotion or cream twice a day to try to prevent stretch marks and while I don't see any at this point, I can only pray that they don't show up in the last two months! My swollen feet and fingers are part of my current symptoms too. I'm also unsure if my thyroid issue will continue after pregnancy or if it is gestational. Mostly I can't wait to have a normal stomach again! All my insides feel cramped up with our growing baby in there and as it continues to stick out further, I am constantly bumping into things. Sometimes you forget just how far that baby bump is sticking out and hit a desk or door frame...or realize you can't fit through a space or nook that you used to. Oh and I hope my belly button goes back to the way it used to be too!

11. Emotional control
Oh my goodness. The random crying and intensified emotions are something that hit me like a freight train. I am already a fairly emotional person, but pregnancy hormones made them even worse. Michael is a God send for putting up with me through the worst of it. As the news of our unexpected blessing settled in, so did the emotions. Although I have to say I found myself crying a lot of times for absolutely no reason. I will never forget the night I laid in bed crying and googling "Why do pregnant women cry?" because I just could not stop. A friend of mine without children asked me why I didn't call her or talk to someone during these cry sessions. I told her there was nothing to talk about, and fortunately other mommies agreed with me - they had similar random meltdowns. That was relieving! So random tears or tears of joy, I would like control of tear ducts back!

12. Caffeinating like you used to
I must say that this is the one thing that is not completely spot-on for me. I didn't drink much soda before (maybe the ocassional sprite or diet coke) nor coffee (unless it's cold out or I was really craving a carmel machiatto) from Starbucks, but again it goes back to the "You always want what you can't have". Some days I want a diet coke, just to switch it up from all the H2O I am taking in. Or when we walk into Target, I smell the coffee at the joint Starbucks and immediately want something. Michael had a Monster not too long ago and the smell alone made me crave an energy drink. I can't imagine how I'll feel once I get some caffeine in my system since it's been so long without; should work really good when I'm going on hours without sleep taking care of sweet pea! :)

Now with all of that said...being things I miss during pregnancy...NOTHING compares to the list of things that I am anticipating post-pregnancy. Brooke's arrival is going to bring about even more change and emotion and I simply cannot wait! The time the two of us currently share is something I will never forget, and the time she has here on earth with Michael and I (and the rest of our family and friends) will be cherished from the very second she arrives.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above." 

~James 1:17

July 17 - Brooke's Godparents

After a lot of prayer and thought, we decided on Brooke's Godparents!

On July 8, Jen came over to help me decide on a dress to wear to the shower. Before she left, we were going to have a snack. I offered her a cupcake and she quickly replied no, thinking I was giving away Michael's dessert! I said okay, and walked around the kitchen counter with the cupcake. She realized it was not Michael's after all, and decided she would have it. She opened the cupcake box and was shocked...

Of course, she said YES!

On July 16, we had plans to meet my parents, Grandmere, Jen and Mike for dinner. We all ordered, enjoyed a delicious dinner, talked about work and just had a good time! After eating, the waiter brought out a cake and put it in front of my Dad. He thought Michael and I just brought dessert for the heck of it. However, once he removed the napkins and knife on top of the box, he read what it said...

And he said YES! (sorry for the blurry picture)

My sister was raised Catholic and I know she will always have Brooke's best interest at heart. My dad converted to Catholicism almost 30 years ago and there's no doubt how much he already loves and praises PB. We are happy that we have found her Godparents, now we just have to wait for her to arrive. Once she's born, we will figure out the date for her Baptism and let everyone know.

And yes, we did ask both Godparents using dessert...you know that was the works of mommy-to-be!!!

Thank you all for the continued prayers for our little family! We are feeling beyond blessed. :)

July 14 - A Sweet Tweet Shower

Friday, I worked from home, met my Mom for lunch and then ran a few errands. We went to Motherhood Maternity and I finally decided on my dress for the shower. We also went grocery shopping, so she could help me with bulk items at Sam's. Oh...and most importantly I got our Baby Book from Grammy and Grumpy on Thursday. I hadn't actually seen it in person, but was so happy with how it looks - love it even more in person! It's gray and pink, like Brooke's nursery. After bringing up all the groceries and relaxing on the couch with a cold lemonade, we went to get dinner with Michael.

Saturday, Michael had to work but wished me well at the shower. I was very emotional; I woke up thinking "I am having a baby shower today". I knew it was coming, but just the reality of it all was overwhelming to me. I rode with my Mom and Grandmere to The Woodlands to Milly and Elyse's house for the shower. Most of the guests were there already, as we were running a little late (blame it on the mommy-to-be). It was so good to see everyone - Michael's family, my family, some friends, previous coworkers, etc. They had a seat saved for me, front and center. We played the game where you can't say baby or Brooke (I am really good at that game). I ended up winning, but only because everyone started giving me their clothespins; they know me too well! :) The other game had a bag of baby items and you had to reach in and guess what the 10 items were. Jen was a really good host; everyone was saying she should have been a teacher, the way she was instructing all of us with the game rules, eating order, etc. She's amazing! Milly, Elyse and Jen worked busted their behinds to make this the perfect shower for me...and IT WAS! I was blown away with the food setup - little cups of Caesar salad, meatballs, mixed fruit and tomato-basil-mozzarella skewers. There were monogrammed onesies and a bib through the house and even a pink/gray wreath, made special for Brooke. There was a diaper cake by the sign-in book, along with monogrammed onesie cookies for favors! I know how much time and effort they put into everything, and it was honestly even better than I could have imagined! Oh...and cupcakes for dessert! Elyse knew my favorite was Red Velvet Cake, but among the others were Lemon Coconut Custard, Italian Creme Cake, Salted Carmel, Chocolate Peanut Butter and more... Brooke got so many wonderful gifts; the room was full of love for her! Mallory was there to capture every moment, and I'm so glad she did. The shower flew by and was over before I knew it. Go figure, right as it was time to go, there was a "shower"! Thanks to all our family and friends who came; it means the world to Michael, Brooke and I to have so much love and support. And a very special thank you to Milly (my aunt and Godmother), Jen (my sister) and Elyse (my cousin) for hosting such an unforgettable shower! Love you so much.

Mommy-to-be and Auntie Jen

We had my Mom's van loaded from end to end and headed to Katy. Michael was home from work, just in time to help bring up all the gifts. He was exhausted, and so was I, but I was too excited to let everything just sit there. I showed him all the presents and managed to put most of it "somewhere" other than the middle of the living room. 

Sunday, I was up at 5, since I couldn't sleep and met my Dad at 7 am Mass. I always thought he was crazy getting up that early, but there I was joining him! He kept looking over at my tummy, and would smile from ear to ear when he saw her kicking! He is on cloud 9 and can NOT wait for his granddaughter to be here! Michael made breakfast and started putting together some of our big items - the swing and pack n play. We ran to Babies R Us, Target and Sam's, before heading to my parents. They graciously offered us dinner and we happily accepted, as both of us were physically exhausted! We got home and still had some more stuff to arrange and put together. Our apartment went from a total nightmare (boxes everywhere, chairs on top of counters, gift bags galore, etc) to a home ready for a little girl! We're not completely ready yet, but in a couple more weeks we hope to have it altogether!

Thanks to Great Ga & Pa for the Pack n Play, with bassinet

Thanks to Grammy & Grumpy for Brooke's Swing/Glider

I am getting my pump ordered this week through my insurance, have interviews setup with 3 different pediatricians, keeping track of all of our gifts that we have received and hopefully finding a "home" for everything we need. Our apartment seemed like it was not going to hold everything when we got home on Saturday evening, but it just needed some rearranging. Things are going to be "different" but I think we will manage just fine, and make our future house that much more appreciated!

We ate the dinner my mom made and leftover shower cupcakes and hit the hay! What a productive (yet slightly chaotic) and lovely weekend! I feel beyond blessed for everything we have received - love, support, prayers, gifts and more! Thank you, thank you from the bottom of hearts. We love you all so much!!!

Diaper Cake from Auntie Jen
(after making it home from the shower)

July 11 - 32 weeks

Last night Michael and I attended a class at the hospital, on breastfeeding. I know he was not thrilled to go, but it was very educating for both of us. Especially as my absentmindedness increases, it is nice to have someone else hear all of these important things. Two and a half hours of nothing but breastfeeding! It was a long class but well worth it, and nice to hear a professional clear up some of the myths that are out there. 

As our little one grows, mommy is too! I have a gained a total of 15 pounds since January, but some days it feels like more. It is definitely getting harder to do many things that are taken for granted when you're not pregnant, such as sleeping, rolling over, bending down, going to the bathroom, household chores, sitting, standing up...the list goes on! Just standing for a short while wears me out, especially if I'm not moving around and just in the kitchen cooking or doing dishes. Thankfully, Michael usually gets home before me and prepares dinner for us. My left elbow has been bothering me lately too. I am not sure if it is the way I am sleeping, or if it could be something else. I plan to talk to my doctor about it at my next appointment. My fingers are swollen like sausages when I awake, but as I get moving around, the swelling goes down. However, by the end of the day the swelling has moved to my feet and ankles. I am sure a lot of this is due to the heat, in addition to the baby weight. I also know that even though it seems like it would be the other way around, the more water you drink, the less you retain. I drink at least 8 glasses a day, and even more if I'm in the sunlight. Heartburn and shortness of breath are back with a vengeance. I find myself "winded" even if I'm not doing physical activity. As Brooke continues to grow, she takes up more room in my tummy, causing my uterus to push up into my diaphragm...thus resulting in heartburn and shortness of breath. My inhaler and tums seem to provide help when I am feeling these symptoms. 

By now, our baby weighs 3 3/4 pounds (about the size of a jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in mommy's tummy. She's gaining roughly half a pound a week. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb.

As a child you seem to always analyze the way your parents punish you, and think to yourself how you will do things differently when you are a parent yourself. Now that I am grown and expecting my first baby, I notice so many more things, as I am going to have to make those decisions myself soon. One thing I know for sure is that Brooke Taylor will have everything she needs to survive. Most importantly she will be loved unconditionally. Sometimes it may be hard to deal with a crying baby, teething toddler and sleepless nights, but nothing will take our love away. No matter what happens she will always be adored by her mommy and daddy, as well as many other family and friends that already care for her so much. Another thing that she will always have is her religion. I was blessed with a family that provided me with the faith I needed from a very young age. I was baptized Catholic and throughout my childhood I continued to get religious education. In high school, I made a personal choice and further commitment to my Catholic faith and was confirmed. I can thank both of my parents and my Godparents, Bill and Milly, for their support in me and my faith. Lastly I will teach my daughter the difference between needs and wants. I want her to know the necessities in life and not be blindsided by all of the extras. It is nice to have some luxurious things occasionally, but those should be appreciated and not expected. Mommy and Daddy will provide her with everything she needs to survive (although I'm sure there will be some spoiling at first, especially from Grammy). I went to college for four years, then worked for five years before finding the job I am currently at now. It was not an easy road, but I can honestly say that I am happy where I am at. I know that the money I make is from a hard-earned paycheck. Things are not always handed down on a silver platter, and for that, I am grateful that my sister and I were taught that at an early age. We were never deprived of the things we needed and we learned to appreciate everything we had. I love knowing that the things I have came from hard-work and dedication; it means so much more than just having something handed to me. So thank you Mom and Dad - turns out you did a pretty good job!

So at 32 weeks, we can expect to meet our precious Brooke in two months...or less! :) Oh my. With every week that passes, I just keep thinking how fast time is going by. This coming Saturday is my baby shower, hosted by Jen, Milly and Elyse. I am so excited! I have been going back and forth about what dress to wear - I bought a few, not knowing which one would fit me best! It will be great to have all of my family together with Michael's family (well, the ladies at least)! Only two more days!!! Back to work, until then...

Mommy, 8 months pregnant

July 8 - Another hospital visit...

Bright and early Monday morning, my mom and I headed to the doctor's office for my 31 week appointment. She questioned going, thinking it would be nothing important. I said I would rather not go alone and of course, she had no problem joining me!

I gained 1 more lb since the last appointment, two weeks earlier. Doc says I'm measuring right where I should be - everything looks great! She listened to Brooke's heartbeat...and once again, heard the variations. She requested that I go to the hospital for another non-stress test. So after leaving there, we stopped by to grab a couple kolaches (the usual routine after doctor's visits), especially not knowing how long we would be at the hospital. I had a dress on, so she asked for me to put one of those stylish, one-size-fits-all gowns.

This nurse that was assigned to me was amazing - she was so attentive & knowledgeable, and most importantly didn't make me feel like I was wasting her time! I hope she is there on staff when I'm there in labor. :) Once we were situated, I let Michael know what was going on and he, as usual, kept me very calm about the situation.

We monitored baby for about 30 minutes. She did really good this time! The nurse put an extra strap around the monitor to help hold her in place...or at least try to. Little miss LOVES to move, even the nurse commented on how much she moves around - never giving Mommy a break! My doctor was actually at the hospital delivering a baby, so she stopped her when she was done and got her to okay my discharge. Baby and Mommy were good to go. :)

So glad that Brooke is okay. I think she has Grammy and Grumpy more concerned than me. However, the doctor and nurse have assured me that she is fine. The monitors look good after seeing a good reading of her heart rate. I think the variations that the doctor heard were due to her frequent movements. Nonetheless, she is a-okay! Finally, I was headed back to work to start a busy week...

July 7 - Holiday Weekend

Our 4th of July was very low key this year. Michael and I rested most of the morning, made it to the pool about 2 and ended the evening poolside with a couple friends eating Spring Creek BBQ. Oh...and we were in bed before dark!

Friday, Michael had to work and I did some chores around the house - again lots of reorganizing of things. I am so ready to get stuff situated for the baby, but I know I have to wait until after the showers. It has been a struggle to resist buying things for Brooke, but I think I'm doing fairly well.

Saturday, I was up early and off to the mall. I had a hair appointment and then I met my mom for lunch at the Cheesecake Factory. And if you can believe this, no lie, we each had a half a sandwich and no dessert! For me, that's unheard of to skip cheesecake...especially pregnant. However, there just was not enough room for any more food! We stopped in Hallmark to look for the Baby Book I want for Brooke, but they were out of stock. At this point, I was tired and ready to get off my feet. I headed home to get ready for my friend Lauren's baby shower. We went to high school together and she lives in North Carolina. Her baby, Adalynn Grace, is due September 11, about a week after Brooke.

Sunday, Michael and I had our Maternity Tour at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. Although we had been there a couple times already, it was good to hear them explain everything. Michael is a well of knowledge; he was the only one who remembered what floor we were supposed to go to! Thank goodness I have him - we'll make it to where we need to go when it's time! We saw the labor & delivery rooms - they're huge! However, only 4 guests are allowed at one time - which is good, so not to overwhelm mommy! Lots of questions were answered and I'm even more anxious to have Brooke here!

After the tour, we went to La Madeline's for lunch - always amazing! Michael insisted that I spend the rest of the afternoon resting on the couch - our days to this are limited! I laid on the couch for a couple hours, even managed to doze off, but then I was refreshed and had to get moving. I went to look for a maternity dress to wear to my baby shower.

Nothing too exciting this weekend, even though I was off for 4 days. It was a nice break, but as usual the hardest part is going back to a 5-day work week...