SHE'S HERE!

No time to post much right now as I'm in the middle of baby bootcamp, but Annabella arrived on Tuesday Sept. 2nd, at 1:51pm. I promise to update very soon!

Crossing the finish line

2 more days. TWO. And I'll become a mom.

I guess I'm calmer than most people because I got a lot of comments yesterday like, "are you freaking out?" and "are you sure you're ready?" It actually left me wondering if I'm reacting normally to all of this...??

Honestly, I'm trying to stay calm for my own sanity...if I start getting nervous now I'll be a disaster by Tuesday.

I keep looking around the house and thinking, less than a week from now, Frank and I will be sharing this house with another person. FINALLY. It's why we bought this house in the first place, 2.5 years ago. It was meant to be for more than two people all this time.

He's still sleeping. I've been up since 5:45...yeah, I know, this is when I should be sleeping as much as possible (if I hear that one more time I might deck someone, LOL)...but I can't. I'm ok, I feel rested...sleeping has just been anything but an easy task these days.

We've got a busy day ahead...we have manis/pedis/wax in a little while, then going to see my dad, then to the cemetery to see Grandma, then to Clori's. We're making the family rounds today, since tomorrow will be spent alone...just the two of us...our final day as a family of two.

I am amazed that I'm actually typing that last sentence...for a LONG time I wasn't sure if I'd ever be able to.

I think we're in trouble.

If A is HALF as active out of the womb as she is inside, we definitely have our work cut out for us. I had my last high risk appointment this morning and she flipped AGAIN. Baby's back to breech. She can't make up her mind!



8 days until she makes her grand entrance...

Feeling crappy but great appointments today

Guess who was lucky enough to get a stomach virus yesterday? Fun times. I feel awful :( I honestly thought this was it and I was starting labor...that's how bad it was all night long.

Frank stayed with me this morning and went to the high risk doctor since I was feeling so bad, but also hoping to get a peek at A's face. No luck. But she's doing great...practicing her breathing and moving her mouth (I'm sure she'll love to eat as much as Mommy and Daddy do!). All's well once again.

Afterwards I went to my endo, who praised me on doing such a great job, since day 1 of this pregnancy, managing my GD. She told me to tell all of my family/friends to bring LOTS of cookies and cake to the hospital after A is born...said I deserve it after being tortured for so long. I agree!

I lost another 5 pounds too, since last week! WTF?

OB tomorrow morning...hopefully that will go equally as well.

37 weeks

Pardon the exhausted look on my face...this was at the end of a pretty long day yesterday. Never mind the fact that sleep is now a luxury around here...and A hasn't even arrived yet! Sigh.

Today's goal - to cook and freeze as much as possible. The challenge - freezer space. We'll see how it goes. I already have a lasagna in the oven, as per Frank's request.

We're almost there!

I know, it's been a while.

But those of you who know me know why. Life has taken a crazy turn and it's been chaos for over a month now. Fortunately, there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel for Dad, and hopefully things will continue to move in that direction. HOPEFULLY.

So much for what is supposed to be the happiest time in my life. But I'll take the sadness as long as I know that Pop Pop will be spending lots of quality time with his granddaughter soon.

As far as Annabella goes, all of our appointments have been great. She's doing very well and is thoroughly enjoying kicking my ass, LOL. She's certainly not slacking in the growth department either...all 7 lbs. 3 oz. of her!

And, she finally showed her face on Monday, although it was only for a brief moment. She's gorgeous. Seriously.

My c-section is scheduled for September 2nd. We can't wait to meet her!

And speaking of doctors...

Thanks to those who have been asking about my dad (he's been hospitalized since July 15th, for those who don't know). I won't get into all the details here since it's way too long to type, but he is slowly recovering.

I've been trying not to get too upset about it all for Annabella's sake...all this family needs now is for me to end up going into labor early...no thanks!

It's been a quiet week for me so far with my doctors. Saw my high risk guy on Monday and he said that A is "beyond perfect". Music to my ears. Let's hope it stays that way for another 6 weeks.

If her activity level is any indication of her health, then she's going to be a marathon runner. She doesn't stop! Now we just need her to get over her camera shyness :)

Doctors, doctors and more doctors

Endocrinologist yesterday - all is good, although I'm starting iron pills now...not a big deal.

OB today - everything's still good with A...can't schedule my c-section yet...back in 2 weeks

Pediatrician today - nice doctors...great office (clean, new, and seperate waiting room for well infants)...very informative

OH and I got the christening date scheduled. Now to find a place...already started making calls. Another project I'd like finished before A arrives!

Had a great portuguese dinner with a friend...yum.

Frank's out at a client dinner...I'm hanging on the couch. Totally beat. A long, but productive day!

Who's her daddy?

Another appt. at the high risk doctor...another u/s...another bust.

The good news (and MOST importantly)....A is doing GREAT...growth is right on track, hb is wonderful, and my fluid is measuring normal. She weighs 4 lbs. 5 oz.

The bad news...she REFUSES to turn around to show that pretty face of hers! It was all back and butt, AGAIN. No pics to bring home, AGAIN.

Anyone who knows Frank knows he is ANYTHING but camera shy. This is nothing like him...she should be hamming it up every time we walk in there. WTF is up with this kid? He spoke to her 3 times this morning telling her to cooperate...I told him if this is any reflection of how she'll listen to him, he's in trouble.

Well, now I'm going on a weekly basis, so we'll have to hope for the best come Monday. I can't believe with all the ultrasounds I've had, we've yet to see her face!

For such a tiny person...

...she sure takes up a lot of space! Or should I say, her "stuff" does.

Still getting everything in order...and slowly but surely realizing that this house just ain't big enough for the three of us, LOL. I know, I know, it'll be fine...but I've run into a few roadblocks just this morning alone and it's freaking me out a bit. This damn nesting instinct is going to send my BP sky high.

I need a massage.

2 things I discovered this weekend that Annabella loves...fireworks and the Yankees. She was like a mexican jumping bean during each of them. She better be a Yankee fan considering we've got about 25 outfits for her! :)

OK, back to the organizing...

30 weeks!

Yikes! Coming into the home stretch, as everyone likes to tell me...lol.

Just had another good OB appointment...BP is still great (110/72), protein is fine, and I lost a pound. I'm measuring normal and A's heartbeat is good (148). Back in 2 weeks.

Still making progress in the nursery...I'm not ready for pics yet though...still have some things to hang on the walls.

Moving right along...

Showered with love

My baby shower was yesterday, and it was so much fun! I can't believe how generous everyone was...we were completely overwhelmed with all the gifts we received. It reminded us once again how lucky we are, and how blessed Annabella is.













Now we just have to figure out where to put everything! :)

Busy day for Baby A!

Two doctor appointments today!

First, the OB. She addressed my cankles and said, "it is what it is...and it'll only get worse!" No concern since my BP is fine (110/72) and so is the protein in my urine. Plus I didn't gain any weight. So, my swelling is nothing more than an eyesore...which is good news!

We will be scheduling my c-section in about a month. It'll either be the last week in August or Sept. 2nd. Time will tell.

Then, off to the high risk doctor this afternoon. Grandma came along and got to see A for the first time! Too bad she was camera shy (AGAIN) but there was no mistaking the big patch of thick hair on the back of her head. Uh oh.

She's measuring at about the 70th percentile which is fine, according to them...and weighs 3 lbs. 4 oz. Yikes!

All in all it was a good day...A was on her best behavior :) Back for more in 2 weeks. Hopefully the good news will continue...

The furniture is here!

Talk about making everything seem soooo real...our former office is now a nursery! Wow.

I won't take pics yet since it's just bare furniture in an otherwise empty room...but after my shower this weekend I should have lots to fill it up with :)

Holy heatwave!

I can't believe how hot it's been! I've been trying to get out at least a little while each day, but for the most part I've been home in the AC. We got VERY lucky...there was a HUGE power outage in our area and somehow we escaped it.

Annabella took her first swim on Sunday...we went to my cousin's house and swam in her new pool. It was heaven...it felt awesome. I see a lot more pools in my future in the next few months...LOL. It's great to feel so weightless, and COOL!

Off to dinner...we're taking advantage of our 'freedom' as much as we possibly can before our arrival, which we know will be here before we know it :)

Taking it easy this week

After seeing my OB on Monday and the look of fright on her face after seeing my feet and ankles, I thought it'd be best to take it easy for a while (she recommended the same). I haven't really done much besides run a few errands, and I went to the movies last night.

I have been able to get more done around the house though...A's closet is clear of everything except her stuff (and she's got quite a wardrobe already) and I purged some more of my things. The nursery furniture is being delivered on the 17th. We're making progress!

Let's see how I survive this upcoming weekend of 95 degree days. Like I've said before, I'd do anything for a pool right now...

Exhausted is an understatement.

I can't get over how tired I am today. Our nieces were here yesterday and slept over...honestly, we spent the majority of the time at our neighbor's house for a BBQ, but for some reason I am WIPED today. Guess it didn't help that I had a few nightmares and didn't sleep well :(

Anyway, this is what a tired, hot, swollen, miserable 26 week pregnant woman looks like, incase you're interested...LOL. Frank took this pic a few hours ago after we got home from brunch and I've been on the couch ever since.

Breathing is FUN!

Finally, some relief today...I'm still not close to 100% but at least I don't have to breathe out of my mouth. No meds today since I don't really need them...and can feel A kicking a lot more today because of it! I feel bad about 'drugging' her for the past day and a half but I just couldn't deal anymore...

I saw my endocrinologist today who continues to be impressed with me...LOL. My numbers are great, BP was perfect (she asked me if I'm normally a "calm person"...uh, yeah, don't think so)...everything looks good. She's even giving me 2 weeks reprieve until the next visit...6 weeks instead of 4. I'll take it.

I took this pic a few hours ago with my cell phone...I can't believe my used-to-be-obsessed-with-picture-taking husband hasn't been keeping up with my belly shots. Hopefully I'll have a better one soon...I plan on giving him a much needed kick in the butt about it :)

The verdict: ALLERGIES.

Fun stuff. Never had them in my life and NOW, at the age of 39, when I am with child, someone up there decides to bless me with them. The doctor truly feels that this is what's going on, based on the way I've been feeling and what's been happening...

So, they recommended taking benadryl or sudafed, as directed...plus it'll help me sleep. At this point I'm willing to do anything (providing it's safe), so off to CVS I go in a little while to pick some up. I JUST CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE.

And PLEASE, please don't tell me that this is just my body preparing me for no sleep once the baby comes. I don't want to hear it anymore...3 or 4 dozen times is quite enough for me. Mommy needs her zzzz's NOW! Thanks :)

Boogie Nights

Can someone PLEASE tell me when all of this congestion is going to END? I wonder why I have a hard time sleeping...I have to believe the fact that I can't breathe out of my nose has something to do with it...not to mention the fact that my ears are always clogged. UGH.

Off to get more bloodwork done...

GREAT news!

We just got back from the high risk doctor, and Annabella is measuring right on target! My fluid is also exactly where it should be. What a relief!

She weighs 1 lb. 12 oz. and the tech also said she's TALL (after measuring her femur)...how that happened I have no idea, LOL.

She was being a little shy and facing downward so we didn't get any good pics of her face, but it was great to see her again...she was kicking up a storm as usual, and we did get one pic of her waving at us :)

We're so happy things are on target after last week's scare...now we can breathe a little easier, at least until the next appointment. Go Annabella!!

3 weeks ahead...hmmm

According to my OB on Monday, that's what I'm measuring, which of course is concerning, given my GD. However, we'll get a much more accurate reading/measurement at my high risk doctor this coming Monday.

I've come to terms with this in the past 2 days, and I'll chalk it up to Annabella being advanced :) Hey, they told us she had a beautiful brain!

Happy Mother's Day!

JUST kicking my feet up after a long day here...I hosted brunch for my parents, sister and nieces, inlaws and sister-in-law. It was a great day, surrounded by loved ones, good food (and LOTS of it) and laughs. Good stuff.

And even though I'm not 'officially' a mom yet, I got some beautiful cards and very generous gifts. Frank bought me the diaper bag I wanted and a Tiffany key chain. My parents bought me a funny book about parenting. My inlaws got me a gift card to Old Navy (I love their maternity clothes), my sister gave me a cute top and my sister-in-law got me 2 really nice cards...including one from Annabella which made me tear up (then again, what doesn't these days!).

Frank even loaded the dishwasher between courses...I almost passed out in the kitchen after seeing that! LOL

I can't believe I FINALLY am able to take part in Mother's Day. Yeah, it's a Hallmark holiday, but one that I'm really beginning to love...I don't care how corny or commercial it is. I'm already looking forward to next year. Maybe this time I won't do all the cooking though :)

23 weeks...

and one VERY long day later...here's a pic. It's from my niece's birthday party yesterday. I was hot and tired...LOL.

Yeah, that's my skinny ass sister comparing bellies with me. She seems to forget what a house she was when she was pregnant!

"Hi Daddy!"

That's exactly what Annabella said last night to Frank when she gave him 5 solid kicks in a row to feel. He's been waiting a while for this (I actually thought it would take longer)...he was so happy and all I could do was cry like a baby. It gave me so much joy to see his reaction to feeling her move...way more than it's given me and I've been feeling her for a while!

I've said it before...I still can't believe that we are experiencing this miracle. Now that her presence is more obvious (whether it's what I feel on the inside or how I look on the outside) I am constantly amazed. Our daughter is growing inside of me. Unbelievable.

OB visit today...

I met another doctor in the practice today and liked him a lot. We talked about my history a bit as well as what's going on with me now. He mentioned how pleased he was with taking my GD seriously (how could I not?)...my weight was the same as my visit last month (still down 15 pounds since getting pregnant).

Then we talked about my swelling. He said that for now, because it's on both sides and it doesn't include my face, that it's normal. However, he talked about how GD and high BP could be associated with each other, so he wants me to be careful and aware of the swelling and how it progresses.

He also discussed the strong possibility of bedrest at some point, as well as "meeting your daughter early". Yikes.

All in all, everything is fine right now, and A is doing great. He wants me to go back to their office in 2 weeks for more monitoring (they took blood today) and this way I'll also be on a schedule where someone is seeing me every 2 weeks, between my OB practice and my high risk doctor.

Keep us in your thoughts that everything continues to go well...

Kicking up a storm!

Well it's official...we've got a wild one in there! :) A has been very active the past few days. I love it. I can't believe I'm finally able to take part in this wonderful miracle. I'm already sad about possibly never being pregnant again and having this be the only time I can experience all of this :(

Back to the OB tomorrow...we'll see what they have to say about my swelling. Hopefully it isn't a big deal and everything else will be ok. Wish us luck!

My ankles are gone :(

Well, I knew it was just a matter of time since I'm prone to swelling (happened a lot while I was on all my infertility meds)...I've been swollen all along but now it's really kicked in. Even my hands have started. I don't think I'll be wearing my engagement ring for a while now...

I had a bit of a scare yesterday because it had gotten REALLY bad, much worse than the previous days. I called my OB office and they ordered me off my feet for the day, and to drink a ton of water and stay away from salt. I'm looking better this morning, but that's usually par for the course after being asleep for 8 hours. Still, I don't think there's reason to be alarmed...I'll call their office in a little while and hopefully this can be dealt with next week at my next appointment.

As long as they give me the go-ahead, I'll be leaving later this morning for a little getaway with my mom, sister and nieces. We'll be down at our shore house for a few days. It'll be nice to relax in a different atmosphere...I'm starting to get bored with my house.

Other than that, everything is great, aside from being a little uncomfortable. We bought new front porch furniture this weekend and it's perfect for relaxing outside with my morning cup of decaf or later in the day/night. I'm looking forward to using it more as the weather gets warmer. I love our porch!

More great news!

We had our Level II ultrasound today, and everything looks GREAT!! A is measuring right on target...and all of the parts seem to be where they should be :)

We were a little bummed that we couldn't video tape it, and the pics we got are pretty blurry, but it didn't matter...it was still really exciting and more importantly, a relief that all is well.

It truly amazes me how they can see so much, and be able to identify what everything is! I see the tech typing in the word "diaphragm" and I'm like, REALLY? How can you tell...it just looks like a big blob! LOL

She had her legs crossed the whole time, which Daddy was very happy about...already this poor guy is worried about A and her teenage years. MEN!

A nice, restful week

Frank got some time off so we did a "Jersey Shore" tour of sorts...Cape May, AC, and a few stops inbetween. Our plans changed a little since the weather didn't cooperate :( Still, we had a nice time, had some amazing spa treatments, good meals, and most of all, RELAXED.

Here's a pic of me and Annabella at the Borgata...it was her fourth trip there already. Think she'll like to gamble like Mommy and Daddy? LOL

More creamed spinach, please...

I still can't get over how ravenous I am at certain times. I think back to the first trimester, when I could barely STEP INTO the kitchen, let alone eat...and now it's quite the opposite. I'll take it :)

A bunch of us went out to dinner for a friend's 40th last night. We went to a great steakhouse, which is perfect for my diet, and between 16 of us probably ordered about half the menu. Yeah, it was hard to pass on the mashed potatoes and many, many desserts (forget about the 30 bottles of wine, dirty martinis WITH BLEU CHEESE OLIVES!! and other liqueurs being enjoyed by everyone else) but I certainly had my fair share of the rest of what was there.

I swear, if my diet weren't restricted, I probably would've gained 25 pounds by now, as opposed to losing 15.

A few people last night who I haven't seen in a while asked what my cravings have been...I said, "Pretty much anything I'm not allowed to eat! See that chocolate lava cake I just passed over? That creme brulee over there? Yeah, that would be it...". So much for being unlike just about every other pregnant woman, who has the urge for an ice cream sundae and sends the hubby out at midnight :(

The miracle inside me is well worth all the sacrifices. Just remember, for those of you visiting me in the hospital when A comes...pizza and DQ blizzards...LOL

It was a fun night out with the crew...we got home around 2am and I was EXHAUSTED...so much so that I slept until 10am today! Talk about paradise! I haven't done that in ages :)

I can't resist!

This kid's already got a better wardrobe than me! It's so hard to step away from the adorable baby girl clothes and accessories...am I going to go broke before she even gets here?

And I'm not the only one. I was with Grandma today and she was doing a pretty bang-up job herself with her credit card :)

I went to visit a friend yesterday who just had her baby girl last week. OMG, I couldn't stop saying how beautiful she was. Long eyelashes, perfect skin, beautiful eyes...she is gorgeous! I held her for a while and at one point thought to myself, WOW, this is the way it will be in about 5 months...with MY baby.

And I can't wait :)

2 great doctor appointments!

Everything's looking good, as per my endocrinologist and my OB. I'm now off the metformin and although my insulin has increased, it's better than being on both. My fasting number has been a little higher than usual the past few days though...we'll see what happens by the end of the week.

I got to hear Annabella's heartbeat again today, after a 15 minute struggle with the doppler (she was moving a LOT!)...152. She's an active one! It still brings me to tears when I hear it...how can it not...she is truly a miracle.

I also got a note from my OB to 'do the spa' next week while we're on vacation. I'm looking forward to a much-needed facial...and just relaxing in general. Frank needs it a lot more than I do, that's for sure...the poor guy's been working like a dog.

Oh, we picked up the glider yesterday (the rest of the furniture will be delivered whenever we want it)...so our first piece of baby furniture is in the house. It's in the living room right now, since we still have to clear out the nursery...I think if it were up to Frank it would stay in the living room, LOL...that's how much he likes it! :)

Getting bigger...

It's getting obvious. People who see me say right away, "you have a belly"! And when I'm in bed, it's becoming quite clear that stomach sleeping ain't happening anymore.

Then I see someone who's further along than me with barely anything going on. Ugh. I can't even be the cute pregnant girl. Oh well...my excuse is that I'm having a girl and she's draining all my beauty out of me. It's true, right? Please tell me it's true.

I haven't taken pics yet because we (correction: Frank) lost the camera battery charger so we haven't been able to use the camera. The new one should be coming soon...I promise I'll take a few (with my shirt ON) then.

Furniture shopping was a success!

Who knew it would be so easy to find something I loved? The fact that everything looks pretty much the same (to me, anyway) made it easier...but regardless, we are SO glad that it's picked out and paid for. All we have to do is schedule delivery when we're ready...we'll probably have it delivered shortly before my shower.

And, Frank is THRILLED that he doesn't have to put anything together. LOL.

Here's a link to the furniture (we ordered it in cherry):
Munire Furniture - Essex collection

And the glider/ottoman (also ordered in cherry):
Dutailier Extra-Large Sleigh glider/ottoman

It's all coming together...my goal is to have it all done before July so I can do NOTHING the last two months of my pregnancy except relax down the shore :) Here's hoping!

Guess I should've mentioned earlier...

So, many of you have asked if we have a name picked out, especially since I referenced our little girl in an earlier post as Baby A...well, yes, we do. We were TTC for over 2 years...one would guess that the topic of choosing names had to come up at some point :)

Truth is, we agreed on two names (one girl, one boy) pretty quickly and had them picked out before we were even married. Who knew it would take SO LONG to actually put one to use?

Soooo, her name will be Annabella Josephine. Josephine was my grandma's name, and also my middle name. Annabella has no significance...we just like it

There it is...the big reveal! ;)

Need....sleep....

How is it possible to be so tired yet have major difficulty falling asleep? What's going to happen when I'm even bigger than I am now? Ugh. The snoogle helps but it's not doing the trick...

Yeah, I know, this is my body's way of 'preparing me' for when the baby comes. If one more person tells me that, I may have to deck them. How about, my body should be giving me all the sleep I need NOW since it's not happening in my future?

Fortunately, I'm feeling GREAT otherwise. I'm loving the second trimester!

Meanwhile, I STILL haven't bought a single thing for her. How long has it been now since we found out she's a girl...at least 3 weeks, right? This is so unlike me. I'm thinking this rainy Sunday afternoon, in addition to getting a few necessary things done around the house, will involve some online shopping :) Let's see if I can find some good sales...anyone know of any?

Wait a sec...I'm pregnant?

Yeah, this is all still a little surreal to me...so couple that with the 'ease' of the second trimester, and there have definitely been moments when I have to remind myself there's a pea cooking in there!

It's usually in the middle of the day...when I'm not taking any drugs or injecting myself with a needle, and when I'm not as tired. I have been getting headaches (common in the 2nd tri, so 'they' say) but they come and go and aren't too bad.

Yesterday I started cleaning out the room that will be A's nursery, and got SO tired SO fast...it wiped me out for the rest of the day! Crazy.

I always remember in the middle of the night though...when I'm up and down for bathroom breaks and when my boobs decide to become hard as rocks. Tough to forget during those times. LOL.

She's looking good!

Got to see our little peanut again today...all is well. She was pretty mellow, actually...guess she was napping or something. Heart rate was 154. It was good to see her again...I'm still not used to the infrequent ultrasounds.

Oh, and I finally told my nieces that they're going to get a new cousin (they didn't know I was pregnant) and that it's a girl...they are so excited! I know they're looking forward to treating her like their little doll...I on the other hand am looking forward to them being able to babysit her in a few years :)

In other news...the insulin is fine, as are the belly shots. Nothing new about that to me. My blood sugar really seems to be becoming a major issue with this pregnancy...which concerns me somewhat...but we couldn't possibly be any more on top of it than we are already. Just have to take it day by day...

And, I started registering! Fun stuff! And quite overwhelming! If any moms out there have any favorite products, items, websites, etc (or things to stay away from)...please let me know...I'm open to suggestions :)

Back on the needle! That didn't last long, huh...

Well, I just got back from my endocrinologist and unfortunately, I have to start insulin tonight. It's a very low dose (6 units per day)...but she feels that my body just isn't producing enough of it on its own...and this is best for me and our baby girl.

Shooting myself up is obviously the least of my concerns...that's what happens when you go through IVF three times. It's the fact that I'll be on another medication that bothers me.

If anyone reading this has experience with taking insulin while pregnant, I'd love to hear about it...please leave a comment.

Aside from that, everything is great...I STILL haven't gone shopping but I've got plenty of time! I have a feeling this is going to be one well-dressed little girl :)

The best news you could possibly hear...AND...

What's better than being told your baby is HEALTHY? NOTHING...nothing at all.

We got our CVS results back today and that's exactly what we found out. Words can't begin to describe how happy we are...the past 2 weeks have been torture waiting for these results. We are THRILLED...I haven't been able to stop my happy tears since I got the call a few hours ago.

Oh, and probably the SECOND best thing is when you find out the sex of your baby. Well, guess what? We found that out too.

It's a GIRL!! I can't believe I'm not already at the mall! LOL

11 pounds down

Who'd have thought being pregnant was the best diet out there for me? ;) And no, I'm not worried (and neither are my doctors)...those of you who know me know that I certainly wasn't a skinny minnie when I got pregnant!

Obviously the low carb diet is the reason...although my blood sugar numbers still aren't that great :( I was at my endocrinologist today and she wants me to get more bloodwork done tomorrow and see her again later this week. She keeps mentioning the "I" word (that would be insulin)...I guess we'll just see what happens...

One important message, to my Grandma...it's been a year and I still miss you tons. I hope you're watching over me and our baby...and you aren't telling this kid to be a pain in the ass the second he/she pops out :)

Tough week so far...

for a few different reasons that I won't get into right now. I'd love to believe in the power of prayer, even though I've been doubtful lately...let's hope it works.

Keep us (and by us, I mean my entire family) in your thoughts, if you don't mind. Thanks.

Three things

Just thought I'd list three things I'm grateful for this weekend:

#1- Our wonderful little getaway we had...fun times at Borgata, once again
#2- Our growing baby in my belly

and #3...

The fact that Frank doesn't have to work tomorrow, and neither do I...and I won't be working the next day, or the day after that. Matter of fact, I won't be working for a while...we've decided that it's time for me to take a break and concentrate on this little miracle we've got cooking.

Given my health issues and high risk factors, we feel this is the best thing to do...and thankfully we can swing it financially. After the baby's born we'll reassess the situation, but for now, I'm a SAHFM (that's a Stay At Home Future Mommy), and I'm pretty damn happy about it :)

So, let's do lunch...call me! LOL

Anyone see that truck that hit me?

I was fortunate enough to have that nasty stomach virus going around hit me last night. I've had plenty of them before, but I have to say, it's even less fun when you're pregnant. Holy hell.

I've been in bed all day...relaxing, sleeping, and drinking lots of water. We'll see when I'll finally be able to eat something. UGH...

Worry, worry, worry...

No, nothing is wrong...everything's going well with the baby. Still, I can't help but worry...I know it's completely natural, especially with everything we've been through. I keep thinking, just a few more weeks and I'll be able to breathe easier...

On a different note, it was wonderful to be at a baby shower yesterday and actually ENJOY it. I know if I weren't pregnant that wouldn't have been the case. It was nice to actually feel 'normal' and chat with other women about my pregnancy. I never thought that would actually happen!

I am now officially an OB patient!

I just got back from my first OB appointment. Fun stuff. I got to see the baby again (heart rate is 169 and all looks well with the little booger) and we went over a TON of other stuff...I'm actually feeling pretty overwhelmed right now.

We discussed my AMA and my sugar issue...they are monitoring me very closely which I'm happy about (especially since it's what I'm used to!). Overall it was a very good appointment...except I have a yeast infection :( More stuff to stick up my cooch...lovely! LOL

Oh and I lost 5 lbs. since my endocrinologist appointment 2 weeks ago. Guess the low carb diet is working...

Graduation Day

Well, we finally did it. Eight days shy of the anniversary of our first appointment, we graduated from our RE. We went in this morning and got to see our baby once again...growing just as he should and heart beating nice and fast (166).

Our doctor commended us on being so strong and persevering through all of this, even though we had so many reasons not to...how easy it would've been for us to give up...he said it's a true indication of what great parents we will be. It was such a bittersweet visit...we really love the staff there and it's going to be SO weird not to have to 'live' there the way we have been for the past year.

Depending on my bloodwork results from today I MIGHT have to go back in 2 days for f/u bloodwork for my progesterone level...but officially we are graduates :)

First OB appointment is on Thursday...yikes!

Can a weekend get any better? I had a great birthday...my boys in BLUE pulled off one of the biggest upsets in sports...and Frank and I made it through the biggest struggle of our lives.

Life is good.

Happy Birthday to me (a day early)

Yep, tomorrow is the big 3-9. And I can't even have any birthday cake!

That's ok...I already have the best present I could possibly ask for :)

Bittersweet

I am proud to report that we had another great ultrasound this morning. Baby C is now measuring 8w2d and the heartbeat rate is 163. Everything is perfect...and he's even starting to look like a baby! (I'm calling it "he" for no other reason than to not have to type he/she all the time, FYI) My due date is now September 6th. Simply amazing...

Yesterday was my first EDD. Frank and I talked about it earlier in the week...actually, he brought it up. He said he was sad about what we went through but that's it's easier to deal with the EDD when you're expecting another baby. He is so right. Yes, it's upsetting and it's tough to hear other people's announcements right about now and think, I should have a baby in my arms too...but we feel more than blessed for what God has given us now.

I also had the pleasure of babysitting my 16 month old nephew yesterday for about 90 minutes, 87 of which he cried his eyes out. That took my mind off the EDD for a little while too...and also made me thankful (at least temporarily) that my baby will be remaining in my belly for another 7 months. LOL.

Daily updates?

So, I've gotten emails from a few people (you know who you are...) asking why I'm not updating my blog on a daily basis. I thought every other day or so was good enough :) but in a way, they're right...after all, this pregnancy is a HUGE event for us, and something we've been working very hard toward for a LONG time.

I also think it'll be fun to look back on this one day and see how things progressed with my pregnancy on a regular basis (and even share it with Baby C one day!)...soooo, I'll do my best, but I can't promise anything :)

As for today...well, it's a pretty good day. As usual, I didn't sleep very well, but I'm almost getting used to it, as well as that 'sour' feeling in my stomach. Oh and the congestion isn't getting any better either...ugh. But other than that I feel GREAT! LOL.

The low carb thing is going alright too. Those of you who've known me a long time know I've tried every diet under the sun...so low carbing isn't new to me...it's just a little harder when you're dealing with the pregnant ickiness. But so far, so good. And THANK YOU to everyone who left comments about their experiences with GD...any tips you have are much appreciated!

We have a fun and busy weekend coming up so I hope Baby C cooperates :)

Gotta love PCOS!

I saw my endocrinologist today (who is a GREAT doctor, but a tough cookie) and she ALREADY has me testing my glucose twice a day. I have to keep track of it and fax her my results each week. And, she made it VERY clear that I need to stay away from carbs.

Anyone who's been pregnant before knows this is damn near IMPOSSIBLE to do in the first trimester. Bread, pasta, potatoes...they've been a pretty good friend during those waves of nausea (which have been more and more frequent).

Oh well...guess I can throw away those extra mashed potatoes I made last night! Think of me while I shove salad down my throat while trying not to gag.

The prize is WELL WORTH IT...that's for sure.

2008 = The Year of the Miracle

Why, you ask?

1- The Giants are going to the SUPER BOWL!!! WOOHOO!!
2- Frank ate a whole wheat english muffin over the weekend (with no influence from me)

and, most importantly...

3- Our baby is doing GREAT! Measuring right on track and the heartbeat is perfect (133). Our RE is so happy with the way things are progressing.

Now if we all could just work on voting a Democrat into the White House, we'd really be in business :)

Dream a little (crazy) dream...

So, before I got my BFP, I had a dream about my Grandma. It was the first one I had about her since she died in February. It was a great dream...her voice was so clear...we were laughing, having fun, and booking a vacation. Typical Grandma.

A few weeks later my Nonno entered my dream...he died when I was 15 and I NEVER had a dream about him until now. Hmmm. Think my grandparents are trying to tell me something? I love that they're here with me during this special time.

Then, last week, I had a dream that I was eating relish. STRAIGHT FROM THE JAR. Ummm...

And finally, last night, I had the type of dream that everyone told me pregnant women can't get enough of...the SEX dream. Only problem was...the two people having sex were people I've never seen before! Is that normal? Ewwww.

Guess we'll have to wait and see what the next 33 weeks have in store...

Music to our ears

Is there anything better than hearing your baby's heartbeat for the first time? I don't think so :)

Yes, we have a heartbeat...according to my RE everything looks wonderful. I am measuring 5w6d and we could see the heartbeat as well as hear it (well, hearing it wasn't as clear as we would have liked, due to background noise...aka, my gas!)...it was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. I let out the BIGGEST sigh. I've been up since 3am worried sick over this!

Pending my bloodwork results which we'll get around noon, everything is perfect so far. This is HUGE. We've never come this far before. We feel extremely blessed.

Between this and the Giants win yesterday, life is good :)

How am I doing, you ask?

I'm fine. I have the occasional nausea, acid reflux, cramping, sore boobs and I'm pretty tired all the time. And a side effect I never knew existed, the increased production of bodily fluids, has kicked in BIG TIME. The amount of crap that comes out of my nose when I blow it is INSANE...lol. And no, I don't have allergies or a cold. I have no idea where it's all coming from.

Because of said increased mucous, Frank has been putting up with my "adorable snoring". Let's see how adorable it is after a few months :)

No morning sickness though...not sure if that's a good or bad thing...from what I hear, it usually doesn't kick in until around 7 weeks anyway...if at all.

Today I am 5w3d (that's 5 weeks, 3 days). And I am SURE these next 4 days will move at a snail's pace...since we're both SUPER anxious about our ultrasound on Monday.

We talk to our baby all the time...he has to know by now how loved he is. We're confident he'll be sticking around for the long haul. WE HOPE.

Keep those prayers coming...

Bloodwork is back...

My beta is up to 1540...so it did way more than just double since the last one. Everything is right on track...now it's all about the heartbeat next week.

Heartbeat prayers, please! :)

First ultrasound results...

Well, let's put it this way...it couldn't have gone any better :)

Our Dr. told us today would be the very first day we'd see a gestational sac and yolk sac...so, not to worry if we didn't, he'd just have me back in a few days...

Well sure enough they were both there, CLEAR AS DAY. We have never had such a positive ultrasound before. All the others were, "well, I THINK I see a yolk sac", etc...so we are completely thrilled :)

He also told us that I'm exactly 5 weeks today. I thought I was a little further along, but whatever. I'm just happy we came home with 2 ultrasound pictures!

My bloodwork results should be in around noon. Fingers crossed that my levels are still going strong...

So, providing all goes well with the bloodwork, we go back in one week from today for another ultrasound and bloodwork.

We know that we still have a few more hurdles to get over, but this is HUGE for us. One day at a time...that's what I keep saying (at 3am when I wake up to pee then can't get back to sleep because I'm a bundle of nerves).

Happy Monday everyone! :)

God Bless Baby Jack

Baby Jack was a very special little boy...one of the most precious and strong babies I've ever met. A true fighter, and someone who will never know how much goodness he brought out in so many people.

He was laid to rest today.

If you would like to make a contribution, please do so to the following:

Jackson Malia Fund for special needs children
c/o James MacDonald Esq.
P.O. Box 146
Verona, N.J. 07044

May Jack rest in peace.

3rd beta...226!!!!

The last beta was 56, and that was 72 hours ago! So obviously we're rising nicely. Maybe Frank and I will actually be able to get some sleep tonight.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers...they're working! Keep 'em coming!

Next step - more bloodwork and FIRST ULTRASOUND on Monday!!

This part is the WORST.

The waiting. The analyzing every little pain, flutter, wave of nausea, dizzy spell...or lack thereof. It's torture...there's no other way to describe it.

I decided to call my RE and ask that my 3rd beta be tomorrow, instead of waiting until Monday (which is when my first ultrasound is scheduled for). After my last FET, we waited the week between 2nd and 3rd betas, only to find that it dropped all the way down to a negative during that time.

I can't help but think it's going to happen again. I'd rather know sooner if things aren't going well.

Please keep us in your prayers, as I know many of you already are. We need this little bean to stick around.