September 7 - Heading Home

The days in the hospital went by faster than we thought. We had a few visitors, but not too many as we wanted those first few days to spend time bonding as a family. However, a special thank you to Grammy, Grumpy, Mamaw, Papaw, Gigi, Great Ga, Great Pa, Aunt Jen, Uncle Mike, Bill, Milly, Mallory, Chelsea, Grayson, Jen and Janet for coming to visit us. Our sweet little baby did a lot of sleeping, but that didn't stop anyone from wanting to see her.

We practiced nursing, changing diapers, burping, sleeping...and lots of loving! It was the beginning of a very long, learning experience. Already there are things that we said we weren't going to do, but with parenting we have learned you have to be flexible. As her weight dropped after birth, we had to supplement with some formula. We also have learned to appreciate pacifiers, another thing we did not plan on using. A couple trips to the nursery during the night gave mommy and daddy a couple hours of rest. Nonetheless, we are enjoying every minute with this precious baby.

Brooke's first dirty diaper

Finally it was Saturday, 3 days after my c-section, and we were going to be discharged. The hospital has signs everywhere saying be ready for discharge at noon. My doctor came in bright and early to discharge me, but we still had to wait for the pediatrician on-call to discharge the baby, since our pediatrician does not visit the hospital we delivered at. My mom and Kathy both arrived early to help us get ready to go home, and next thing you know it was after 3 pm. Finally the nurse came in to tell us that the doctor was caught up at another hospital and we could leave without seeing him, as he reviewed everything and she is fine up until this point. While it was relieving to get discharged, it was frustrating that we could have left hours prior if they had realized this sooner. 

We got Brooke dressed in her personalized onesie (thanks auntie) and in her carseat. Mom, Dad, Brooke, Grammy and Mamaw were heading home!

September 4 - Brooke's Birthday

The day we have been waiting for was finally here. I was up bright and early at 4 am to get ready for Brooke's Birthday! I got showered as Michael packed up the car with our bags. We were on the road and luckily only had a couple miles to go to the hospital where we were delivering, Memorial Hermann Katy. My mom met us and we took the elevator up to Labor & Delivery. My mom couldn't follow us back so we gave her our stuff and headed to pre-op. After signing a few forms, Michael got into his scrubs and I got changed into my gown. They hooked me up to an IV and started pumping me with fluids. At this point, things finally started to slow down for the first time all morning and I realized that within an hour I would have a baby. I was filled with emotions! It was an indescribably emotion of impatience and excitement. Next thing you know the doctor came in; it was time. I gave Michael one last kiss and I walked across the hall to surgery.

I was scared to get the anesthesia, and the nurse knew it. I was shaking like a leaf. They laid me back on the table and within a few moments my legs felt heavy, warm and tingly. I started to feel extreme nausea and just knew I was going to be sick. The nurse put a bag next to me face, but it never happened since they gave me more meds for it. It wasn't long that they threw up the sheet and everything was ready to start. Michael came in with the camera and sat right by my side. After 22 minutes, Brooke was pulled out and I saw my precious baby for the first time. That was the most amazing feeling in the world! The first thing the doctor said was that she had "the size head of a 10 pound baby" and that was the reason she was never engaged.

Michael took a few pictures and they brought Brooke to the side of the room. The doctor kept offering for Michael to go see her, but he didn't want to leave my side. Finally, he gave in and went over to take a few pictures. Then, he accompanied the nurse to the nursery to bathe our baby and get her measurements. Meanwhile, the doctor was stitching me back up. Then, they got a call and told me Brooke weighed in at 8 pounds 4 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long...our perfect bundle of joy!

The next hour or so went by pretty fast and was pretty foggy as they moved me back to a hospital bed and wheeled me back to the recovery room. Michael was already waiting for me. Due to all the fluids being pumped in my body, I couldn't stop shivering. It was very uncomfortable and I still couldn't move my toes. I think I may have dozed off for awhile. Next thing I know the nurse came in with a "present"...Brooke! I nursed our sweet little angel and it went perfect! After that we were off to my post-partum room.

Our family came in and saw the three of us and gave their congratulations. It was only about 10 am at this point, but it had already been such a long day. Everything was still so surreal. On top of all the feelings and commotion with nurses and visitors, one thing was for sure, Michael and I were parents! Our sweet little daughter was born at 7:55 am on Wednesday, September 4, 2013. I couldn't be more proud of that beautiful little girl.

A special thank you to my best friend, Mallory for taking pictures for us. Check them out on her blog, Mallory's Happiest Things.

September 3 - Love & Support

Over the last 10 months, we have received so much love and support. I do not think I would have made it this far without it. The following people made a special impact on me during the pregnancy:

Michael. He is my rock. I can be a little jumpy, emotional and overly organized at times. He helps us keep sanity and balance in our relationship, as he is very calm and rational. We both know I was slightly hormonal in the beginning of my pregnancy, but that was nothing that he couldn't handle because of his love for me and his daughter. He knew when to provide words of encouragement...and when to keep his mouth shut! He supported all of the decisions I made, as we kept open communication about everything. He has worked harder than ever before, getting ready to become a family of 3. He loves my family as if they were his own. His relationship with God has also grown stronger, which makes my heart melt, as we hope and pray that our daughter has strong faith as well. I could not imagine going down this road with anyone other than Michael. 

My mother. She has always been nothing less than loving and supportive of every decision I have ever made. Well...I suppose there are a few that she may not have been too fond of. However, she knew that the lessons learned were far greater than the damage done. Her faith in me and trust in God made me the woman I am today. I will never forget the day I told her I was pregnant. We were sitting on my couch as I broke the news to her and we just hugged and cried - tears of joy, excitement, nervousness and the unknown. She immediately made it understood that she would be called Grammy! And since then, she has been my side every step of the way. She accompanied me to doctor's appointments when Michael couldn't take off of work, came over to the apartment to help me clean once I got to big to move and lift stuff, opened up "The Factory" in their dining room to sew Brooke all sorts of clothes, bloomers, blankets and more, called me in the mornings to make sure I made it through the night okay, loves Michael as if he were her own son and it never fails that she offers us food!! The only thing better than having her as a mother is knowing she will be the grandmother (Grammy) to our daughter!

My sister. Jen and I have always had our moments, and unfortunately when I first found out I was pregnant we were childishly fighting over something so silly that I don't even remember. However, once we got together and I told her our life-changing news, she was (literally) jumping up and down! I remember her saying that she would never forget that date, as that was the day she found out she would be an aunt! She has already spoiled our baby more than anyone could imagine. Other than a plant and teddy bear my parents got us after our first doctor's appointment, Jen got bought our baby her first two toys. This was before we knew a name, much less if it was a boy or girl. And of course, there were more goodies that she gave us at the Gender Reveal Party, followed by the most amazing baby shower that she hosted with my aunt/Godmother and cousin. Everything was perfect! She has made so many friends on Etsy placing personalized orders for our precious Brooke. The monogrammed burp cloths, gowns, onesies, holiday dresses, aunt/uncle onesies and shoes are just a few of the things that now fill her closet. Other than spoiling our daughter to the extremes, she has spoiled me as well. She bought me a new dress when I was only halfway through my pregnancy, which I never though I would fit into...but it looked great on me when I wore it to celebrate her birthday 3 months later. She came running over to the apartment the day I was having bad back pains, thinking that was the beginning of labor, to bring me Chick-fil-a, as my "last meal". She answers everyone of my phone calls "Did your water break?" At 39 weeks pregnant, she took me to get a manicure and gave me a heart pendant signifying a Mother's Love, as I approached Brooke's due date. She has been a huge support to me during this not-so-easy process, never judging me for my crazy emotions. I think she enjoys hearing the stories that come along with pregnancy. She always kept me laughing, even when there were times I was tired and in pain. She has added to the excitement of this journey and it's comforting to know that she will always be there for her niece...and Goddaughter!

Mallory. She is my bestest friend and never fails to be there when I need her. She was the one who went with me to get the blood work done to confirm our positive pregnancy test. She was there to listen to me cry and vent about the unexpected ups and downs of pregnancy. She took pictures of Michael and I for our pregnancy announcements, at our Gender Reveal Party and maternity photos. She has also agreed to take pictures of us at the hospital on the day of her birth and newborn photos once we are back at home. She hosted a beautiful shower with her mother and two of my other best friends. She has used her crafting skills to personalize numerous onesies and decorations for some of the events over the last 9 months. She calls on me almost every day to make sure that I am doing well and to tell her the latest news with Brooke and the pregnancy. God knew what he was doing when he put her in my life. I never knew that when we became friends in 6th grade that our friendship would end up turning into something so awesome. I couldn't imagine going through any of this without her! 

My dad. He has always been so protective of me, as I am his baby girl. He always worried about me, as I am an adventurous, opinionated and stubborn individual. I never understood why he would give me such a hard time growing up...until now. Having a daughter causes this involuntary urge to look after her every move. You don't want to see them get hurt or fail or make any of the mistakes you once made. I know now that he only had my best interest at heart and that is why he was always so protective of me. It was out of love for his daughter. So when he first found out I was pregnant, his reaction was one of surprise and concern. However, it didn't take him long to realize that even though it was not the way any of us imagined it happening, this was a miracle. And most importantly, he was going to be a grandfather! It only took him a short while to remember how amazing it was to have a baby and know that Michael and I were going to be great parents. He has showered Michael with so much love and respect. And I never thought I would ever be with someone like my dad, and I would never say Michael is a spinning image of Ed...but every once in awhile Michael will do something that reminds me of no one other than my Dad! He is a hard man to understand, but his love for his first grandchild grows more and more each day. We can't wait for Brooke to meet her Grumpy/Godfather!

Michael's parents. For the past five years, I have built a wonderful relationship with both Kathy and John. They are experienced grandparents and it is a joy to watch them with David's children, Cameron and Alex. They have shown tremendous love for those two kids and I know how excited they are to have a grandbaby added to the mix. Kathy attended both of my showers and it was great to introduce her to some of my family and friends for the first time. My family just adores her (and John too)! We received the sweetest blanket and Brooke's first fishing rod, among other wonderful gifts. They are two of the most gentle, humble and caring people I know. They would do anything for family, or anyone for that matter. They have always treated me as part of their family, and I feel blessed to be starting my own family with their son. I am so happy that Brooke will have Mamaw and Papaw in her life!

My Godparents. My uncle Bill and Aunt Milly have always been a special part of my life, from my baptism to my confirmation to me graduating college and now the birth of my first child. They have always been close to my family and shown me nothing but love and support since I was a baby. Milly hosted my first shower (along with her daughter and my sister). I know how much work she put into it, and it showed. Everything was perfect, all the way down to the decoration in the bathroom! I am so lucky that my parents chose them for my Godparents 28 years ago. They have been a blessing to me...and even Michael (and Brooke). Michael instantly fell in love with their genuine personalities and kind-spirits the moment he met them. They treated him like part of our family and he has always expressed his love and appreciation for them. I am happy that Brooke has their love and support; it means so much to our family!

God. Without my faith, I surely wouldn't have made it this far! God blessed me with this miracle and trusted that I could help him create this beautiful child to bring into the world. I am eternally grateful that he wanted me to be a mother and for Michael to be a father. We already feel so blessed to call Brooke our daughter and cannot wait to hold her in our arms. I have been fortunate enough to have a family friend and priest bless me twice during our pregnancy. He has brought comfort to us and renewed our strength. We look forward to baptizing Brooke in the Catholic Church and praying for her relationship with God to blossom throughout her life. There were days during my pregnancy I was not sure how I would make it due to the physical and emotional stress that is endured. However, through prayer God reassured me that everything would be okay. I am so fortunate to have my faith, because it is one of the most important things that got me through the last 10 months.

There are plenty of other family members, friends, coworkers and even strangers that have shown their support along the way. From my boss allowing me to work from home when I was feeling achy to conversations with strangers in the elevator, so many people have shared their stories, advice, opinions, love, support, prayers and more! Michael and I are overwhelmed. The emotions we have both experienced are indescribable. We are beyond lucky to have so many amazing people in our lives. We look forward to what the future holds for our family.

As we are down to the final 12 hours before Brooke's birth, I just want to take one last minute to thank everyone...for everything. We honestly could not have gotten through this without you all. Brooke is already surrounded by so much love and we cannot wait for her to enter this world tomorrow and meet everyone!

Thank you again, and God bless!

With love,
Jaime, Michael & Brooke

September 2 - "No labor" Labor Day

Well, some of the family had their bets placed on today for Brooke's birthday...and they were wrong. Our little girl is just taking her sweet time. However, it may come as a surprise to her that in just a couple of days she is getting evicted! She is getting too big and her parents are ready for her to be here!

Today Michael and I started the day with donuts and kolaches. Then Jen came over to see my new car and take me to get a manicure. What a great sister - I've gotten my nails done the past two weekends so they would look pretty in pictures at the hospital but the baby hasn't come yet. So she said this week was her treat! After nails, we went to Katy Mills Mall to buy her one last outfit before her arrival (9 month dress; no longer buying 3 or 6 months clothes). We came back home and Jen pulled out a box and said she had a gift for me...not Brooke. It was a heart pendant from James Avery - the Mother's Love symbol. I have the ring, as it was a gift from my mother years ago. Now I am receiving the Mother's Love necklace for me being a mother, not a daughter! 

Being a mother means you worry, give, teach, nurture and more than you ever thought possible. It also means that your life is rich beyond measure. Through all the trials and tribulations of growing up, somehow children manage to reach adulthood. Children move in and out of your life so quickly, it seems, but one place they stay forever is in your heart.

Speaking of mothers, my friend Tasha's son Riley is now 4 months old. I cannot believe it! It seems like just yesterday I was visiting her in the hospital after his birth. They came over to spend a couple hours at the pool with me. Riley loved the water! He such a good boy, chubby as can be and I love him to death! 

After the pool, Michael and I got ready and headed to my parents' house for barbecue. Bill & Milly, Pa & Ga and Jen & Mike were also going to be there. Milly and Bill had a little present for us! She gave us some swaddles blankets, burpy bib, bunny rattle and a monthly calendar for your new baby. They are so sweet and the best Godparents anyone could ask for. Brooke is blessed to have them in her life as well. Everyone is so excited to meet Brooke on Wednesday, especially her parents!

Michael and I watched a movie before going to bed. It was a busy, yet relaxing Labor Day...with no labor. 

August 30 - "Hey Pretty Girl"

Prior to being pregnant I listened to country music, but over the last 9 months I seem to be listening to even more of it. Not to mention singing louder than usual, so Brooke can enjoy the tunes as well! In the first few months, when I was hormonal (and very emotional), I remember getting teary-eyed as I listened to songs that had anything to do with the love of a daughter, especially "I loved her first" by Heartland. 

In recent weeks, I have a new found love for another song "Hey Pretty Girl" by Kipp Moore. It is about a man and the love he has for a "pretty girl", the life he wants to build with her and the daughter they have together. I'm not going to lie, it brings tears to my eyes literally every time I hear it. I absolutely love it, and have to share the lyrics, in case there is anyone who has not heard it. Enjoy!

Hey pretty girl, won't you look my way

Love's in the air tonight

You can bet you make this ol' boy's day

Hey pretty girl, won't you look my way

Hey pretty girl, can I have this dance

And the next one after that

Gonna make you mine there's a real good chance

Hey pretty girl, can I have this dance

Hey pretty girl, it feels so right

Just like it's meant to be

All wrapped up in my arms so tight

Hey pretty girl, it feels so right

Life's a long and winding ride

Better have the right one by your side

And happiness don't drag its feet

Time moves faster than you think

Hey pretty girl, wanna take you home

My momma's gonna love you

She'll make me sleep on the couch, I know

Hey pretty girl, wanna take you home

Hey pretty girl, let's build some dreams

And a house on a piece of land

We'll plant some roots and some apple trees

Hey pretty girl, let's build some dreams

Life's a long and winding ride

Better have the right one by your side

Happiness don't drag its feet

And time moves faster than you think

Hey pretty girl, you did so good

Our baby's got your eyes

And a fighter's heart like I knew she would

Hey pretty girl, you did so good

Hey pretty girl, when I see the light

And it's my time to go

I'm gonna thank the Lord for a real good life

A pretty little girl and a beautiful wife

I love you Michael Wade Taylor, and there's no doubt life is better with you by my side. I can't wait for our daughter to join us! lym

August 29 - 39 weeks

We are just one week from our due date. Where has the time gone?

Our baby is waiting to greet the world! She continues to build a layer of fat to help control her body temperature after birth. Typically a baby at 39 weeks would measure about 20 inches and weigh a bit over 7 pounds, about the size of a mini-watermelon. However, two days ago Brooke was measuring at 8 1/2 pounds, so she is a bit bigger than the average baby at this point. The outer layers of her skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

At this point, we are just waiting on our little girl. Momma is getting more uncomfortable day by day. Heartburn is at its all-time worst (when I thought it couldn't get any worse). I feel like I'm hot and sweaty all the time; it doesn't help being 100 degrees outside either! Sleep is getting very difficult, as my tummy continues to grow; it's near impossible to flip from one side to the next. 

It is surreal to think that in less than one week we will have our little angel here in our arms. Life as we know it is about to change forever...but in the best way possible!

August 28 - "How a baby will change your life"

I read this story recently and just had to share it. My baby is not quite here yet, but I think it sums up so many feelings for experienced moms, expectant mothers and ladies who may consider down the road. Enjoy!

We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family." "We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think I should have a baby?"

"It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral.

"I know," she says, "no more sleep...ing in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."

But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes.

I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable.

I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her.

That when she sees pictures of starving children, she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.

I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moments hesitation.

I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her
baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right.

I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom.

However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.

Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she will shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself.

That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give herself up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs.

I want her to know that a cesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor.

My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks.

I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child.

I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.

I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving.

I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike.

I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time.

I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.

My daughter's quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me, and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings.

"May you always have in your arms the one who is in your heart."

~Author unknown

August 27 - Last Doctor's Appointment

Nearing the 39 week mark, today was my last doctor's appointment. We had an ultrasound at 1; mom went with me, as Michael was working in The Woodlands and unable to come. Brooke is still moving around in my belly like she has all the room in the world! The technician measured her to be an estimated 8 pounds, 8 ounces!!! She is still growing 1/2 lb per week, so that will put her at over 9 pounds by her due date. I was 9 1/2 pounds when I was born...looks like she is already taking after her mama! I sent Michael a picture from the ultrasound as soon as we were done and told him the size of his expected baby. He said "She's getting big" and "Looks like she's blowing a kiss!" This melts my heart!

After the ultrasound, then I had an appointment with the doctor. As soon as she got the results from the doctor, she tried calling the hospital to see if we could move up our induction date to THIS week! Unfortunately, there as nothing available. She came in and checked me, then discussed with me our options, considering the size of our big baby, who is not done growing! Brooke is head down, but not yet engaged (dropped into my pelvis) which could make for a more painful and longer labor. The fact that she will be an estimated 9 pounds by next week also means there is a chance she will not fit, or could get stuck when it comes time to passing her shoulders. I am still not dilated either; no progression for the past couple of weeks. All of these are signs suggesting a harder labor. My doctor said she was willing to try for a natural birth if that is what we wanted. I told her Michael and I would talk about our options and get back with her. 

After the appointment I called Michael and we discussed the pros and cons of waiting, scheduled induction and scheduled c-section. Considering there is the large chance that if we induced, we would still end up doing a c-section, plus all of the other factors pointing away from a successful natural birth, we decided to schedule a c-section. The nurse called me back with the date and time: Wednesday, September 4th at 7:30 am. So unless she comes on her own before next week, that is Brooke's scheduled birthday!

Mom and I came back to the apartment so I could get some work done from the laptop. Then I did some more carshopping and negotiating online with internet managers from a couple different dealerships. I actually grew to enjoy the game they play, is that crazy? I like a good deal and wanted to make sure I got the best. Next thing you know Mom and I were on our way to a dealership in Katy to purchase me a new car! After a couple hours of signing my name and talking to the internet dealer (who was actually one of the most down to earth people I've ever met), it was 9 pm and I was driving off the lot in a brand new 2013 Nissan Rogue! I had been wanting a new car for over a year now, but I got a new job, then I moved, then I was pregnant...so it just kept getting pushed back. Michael and I agreed that we would get me a new car before Brooke arrived, because we wanted something bigger, newer and safer for the two of us. Well, at almost 39 weeks pregnant, we finally got it done!

Michael picked up pizza, so Mom came over and had a quick bite to eat with me. What an exciting day for all of us - scheduled Brooke's "birthday" and got her a new set of wheels to ride home from the hospital in!

August 26 - To crave or not to crave

Food "cravings" during pregnancy are something everyone has heard about, whether you're a man or woman, with children or without. Now I always thought it happens without a doubt, that every pregnant woman gets strange cravings during those 9 months of pregnancy (another misconception - full term is actually 40 weeks)...you know the ice cream and pickles! Well, it is all supposedly from the sudden flow of extreme hormonal changes and their impact on one's food and smell. One study showed that aversions and cravings go hand-in-hand. It was more likely for a woman with aversions to have cravings and vice versa. Another showed that it was more common for women to crave sweet over salty. Many nutritionists believe that cravings are meaningful, which I feel is the most acceptable reasoning. Women who crave ice may be lacking iron in their diet, a shortage of magnesium may trigger a craving for chocolate, a craving for red meat would be a scream for protein and so on. Likewise, goes for the aversions. A woman who is turned off by the sight of raw meat is her body's way of rejecting rare cooked food during pregnancy. Now there is no scientific proof backing these explanations, but in my opinion they seem to make the most sense. 

Other than that, it is common for mothers-to-be take advantage of "eating for two". While pregnant, it is suggested to have about 2,200 calories per day. So if you were "eating for two" 4,000 calories is MUCH more than the typical non-pregnant suggestion of a 2,000 calorie diet. Although all of this also depends on pre-pregnancy weight, BMI, height and how many calories you are burning per day. One's doctor may also have suggestions of how to handle your diet and cravings. My doctor simply told me she was not a nutritionist and suggested I read What to Eat When You're Expecting. The blood tests she has run are normal, I did not get gestational diabetes and my weight has been under control during the last 9 months - so I would say we are both on the same page and doing something right!

Michael and I have always eaten pretty well. We love to cook, so fresh food was always part of our diet. I was never really a breakfast person, but that changed, as my hunger increased and I needed to start the day with some food in my tummy. Eating more frequently and smaller meals was also a change. I did add a little more ice cream to my diet, but it obviously isn't affecting me too much...perhaps I am just craving more calcium! I also know my limits. We always buy pint size (or smaller) and I have just enough to satisfy my craving. We always have fresh fruit at home now too. In the beginning I craved sweet and salty things; trail mix was my first "craving". However, as I near the end, I try to stay away from salty foods, as I can really notice the swelling in my fingers and ankles if I indulge. Luckily I have really had no aversions during my pregnancy, another thing I thought all women experience (certain smells or tastes that make them immediately nauseous). A couple times I ate jalapenos or something spicy and it just tasted hotter than usual, but it didn't make me sick. Perhaps my lack of aversions coincides with my minimal cravings. I have always been a foodie, so I haven't had to experience too much change. I rarely drank coffee or soda before pregnancy, so sticking to H2O hasn't been a problem either. It has sometimes been challenging to drink at least 10 16oz glasses per day though. Lastly, I would say the weirdest craving I had was for ice cold Dos XX beer. I spoke to other woman who said they craved alcohol during their pregnancy as well. I think it could be wanting what you can't have, or perhaps the Houston heat just made me think an ice cold beer sounded refreshing, as it usually tasted pretty good on a hot summer day before I was pregnant.

Some of my cravings over the last 9 1/2 months include:

• trail mix
• nuts - cashews, peanuts, almonds
• fresh fruit - pineapple, strawberries, peaches
• ice cream (even more than before!)
• pork, "the other white meat"
• lemonade, nice alternative to water
• breakfast foods - eggs, french toast, pancakes

So I am sure everyone has their own opinion on cravings and aversions. When it comes down to it, it is really up to that individual to give in to them or not. I think I have handled mine fairly well, and perhaps that is because I did not have many. I can only speak for myself though. Self-control and will power definitely come into play. Of course, pizza and ice cream sound great to anyone - pregnant or not. However, choosing to eat pizza and ice cream every day - morning, noon or night is going to cause some weight gain. So the mid-night hunger and unusual cravings - it's up to the prego lady to give in or not.

My favorite craving - Blue Bell pint of ice cream,
with a handmade crochet pint koozie

August 25 - "On my nerves"

I had a doctor's appointment Friday morning at 8. I was up early and outside waiting for my ride (aka mom) on time, usually it's the other way around. I got weighed in and actually lost a pound, which the doctor assured me was okay. The bigger the baby gets, the less room I have to put food in my tummy. As for my aching back, it is most likely that Brooke was "on my nerves"; pushed up against my sciatica nerve. It is very common towards the end of pregnancy, as the baby grows bigger and has less room to move around. Sometimes this pain can last weeks or months, luckily mine was only for a few hours and left just as suddenly as it started. Other than that, not much progression; still no dilation. I think Little Miss is just as cozy as can be in my belly...

After the doctor's appointment, we had Panera Bread for breakfast before our chores! We went to Kohl's and may have done a little bit of spoiling, and then to HEB for groceries. I am hoping that some of this walking will help, even if it's retail and grocery shopping - it's in the air conditioning and still counts!

We got some stuff done around the apartment, and mom took a nap while I got caught up on some work from my laptop. Then, we headed to the pool for a few laps and relaxation. Mom headed home around 6, and Michael and I ordered Chinese food. Nice way to end our Friday. Our weekends of "just the two of us" are coming to a close end. It's bittersweet!

Michael had to work for a few hours on Saturday, so I did a few more things around the apartment. I thought my nesting had come to an end...I spoke too soon. Wouldn't you know I found more to do! I washed a few more baby things, packed some snacks (for Daddy) in the hospital bag, set up the baby monitor and washed/sterilized half our baby bottles (apparently we got a lot more than I thought, so until I know which ones she likes, I will hold off on opening all the boxes).

Michael brought home gyros for lunch and we watched a movie. Then we decided to go look at cars again. We headed over to Auto Nation Nissan, just a few minutes from us. We compared two color options of the Nissan Rogue...and it took me forever to pick one. They started running numbers and the negotiating started. I have never experienced this before; it was stressful, annoying, exhausting, weird and exciting! It was about 8:30 when we finally said that we would sleep on it and come back Monday. I was very close to signing, but I don't like the pressure they put on you. We plan to visit another dealership on Monday to see what they can offer us.

Sunday, I woke up early and met my mom at 7 am mass. We saw Father Lockey after church and he asked me the name of our daughter again. I told him and he looked down at my belly, as if to say a blessing but instead blurted out "Come out Brooke!" That was very unexpected, but perfectly said! I am hoping she will listen to a priest, because she surely isn't listening to her mother! I then returned home to have breakfast with Michael. We lied around and watched a couple movies. It was nice to just relax at home on a Sunday together and not work. I even took a little catnap. Only productive thing I did was get a manicure; these nails needed it, especially if Brooke were to make her debut! Michael had dinner ready when I got home and cleaned the kitchen after we ate. It was a productive and relaxing weekend. I feel that much more "ready" for our baby's arrival. This waiting game is getting very hard. 

Another friend of mine had her baby on Saturday. Our due dates were just 8 days apart, so her little girl arrived just 4 days early. She was almost 8 pounds and 20 inches and is absolutely precious. I am so happy for her and her family...and slightly jealous that her baby has arrived. I tried telling Brooke to have the same birthday as Maryn, but she obviously didn't listen!