28 weeks late.

Whoops. I am totally going to kick myself for not blogging as often as I did with Camden. Poor Ella, I'm not going to remember anything about her pregnancy except how sore my right set of ribs are ;)
Seriously though, we are in the home stretch (third trimester) and I haven't blogged about a single pregnancy update.
We found out around Thanksgiving (and super early.. 4weeks) that we were expecting baby #2. While this was "semi-planned" as we like to call it, we were still very shocked. We weren't planning on telling our families so soon, but with as sick as I was, we didn't want everyone questioning why I wasn't stuffing my face during the holidays (I also have a hard time at keeping exciting news to myself). We decided to let Camden announce our news to our families. We dressed him up in a sweet big brother t-shirt and made rounds for surprise visits that day! Everyone had similar reactions to what we had when we found out, but excitement set in quickly! Naturally, everyone began taking bets on the gender of the child, as there are WERE, no girl grandchildren. Obviously that streak has been broken, and sweet Ella Cathryn will have six big boy cousins to toughen her up and protect her! We are so excited!
It took us awhile to decide on a name for our baby girl. We both decided that we wanted to use "Ella", because it holds a special meaning to both of our families. Ella was Matthew's great grandmother's name, as well as my great grandmother's name. We chose Cathryn for her middle name mainly because of its meaning. Cathryn means pure or innocent. Ella means "completely". We both agreed that completely innocent/pure was the perfect name for our baby girl.
We are working with Camden on introducing the thought of a new baby being in the house. We let Camden play in "sister's room" and talk to him about baby. He loves to watch sonograms and point out his "baby." He also thinks everyone has a baby in their belly. We love that little boy. Still trying to fathom loving another child like we love him, but we know it will happen.
There isn't much left for me to post about since I'm not nearly as prepared this time around.. I guess everything will get done in the next twelve weeks :)

How far along? 28 weeks

Total weight gain: 18 pounds

Maternity clothes?: yes

Stretch marks? none yet

Sleep: not so great ;)

Miss anything?: being able to breath

Movement: yes! she has the exact same movement patterns that Camden did!

Food cravings: fruit and slushes from Sonic

Anything making you queasy or sick?: lying flat on my back

Gender: girl

Name: Ella Cathryn Gates

Labor Signs: None, but multiple BH contractions daily (since 21 weeks)

Belly Button: way past outie stage

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: back pain, shortness of breath, cancels

Happy or Moody most of the time?: Moody

Looking forward to: Our sonogram monday!

Nursery Theme & Colors: Shabby chic.. pink, cream, and white

9 months old!

Can't believe it's been five months since I updated this! Oh my gosh how much stuff has changed! 

How old:  9 months
Weight: 15lb13oz at our last checkup.. yes, we know he is small. but our doctor says he's healthy as a horse (and he's still on the growth chart!)
Height: 27 inches
Hair color: blonde
Eyes: bright blue
Favorite food: still mama milk! along with anything he can get his mouth on, including dog food :(
Sleep: So far, so good. Sleeping through the night (most nights) for about 12 hours and taking 2-3 naps a day.
Movement: Crawling everywhere, pulling up, and "cruising"!
Favorite "words": dada ... sad face.
Favorite toy: this bracelet made of bells that we probably shouldn't have bought at Cracker Barrel. and his football
Favorite clothes: sleepers
Diaper size: 2
Clothes size: 9 month.. FINALLY!!
Shoe size: 2
Likes: nursing, being nosy, chewing on everything, and squealing/talking
Dislikes: being too sleepy, having his nose suctioned
Who does he favor? We're hearing about 50/50 now.. which makes mama happy :)

I am SO proud to say that we are 3/4 of the way to our nursing goal. My long-term goal is to nurse Camden until his 1st birthday, but I had mini goals set along the way. However, I honestly get depressed thinking about weaning him now.. no judgment ;) But for real, I am so proud of both of us for getting so close to our goal. The last three months will seem like nothing! I'm beyond thankful to have such a supportive husband who sees my goals and encourages me to do what we feel is best for mom and baby! I couldn't have made it this far without his support and help from LLL and other nursing mamas! It's so fulfilling to set goals and watch yourself meet them!

Camden is SUCH a joy to us! I really do not remember what it was like living without him. I find ourselves constantly talking about our "sweet angel" and that's exactly what he is. We thank God daily for blessing us with the opportunity to be his earthly parents and demonstrate just a small portion of God's love to him!

Hopefully I'll update again before his first birthday.. then again, maybe I won't :/

Being a mommy and Camden's 4 month check up!

As I sit here and watch my little man nap in his swing (the only place he WILL nap- ha!) , I'm flooded with thoughts of WHY I love being a mommy and how it has changed my life. Looking back, I don't know how I ever lived NOT as a mommy. I feel like being a mommy is my calling in life. I have always known that I wanted to be a mommy, but I never imagined just how complete it would make my life. I feel like there must have been this void in my heart I was unaware of that only Camden could fill. And on September 19, 2012, all 6 pounds and 8 ounces of that baby boy fit perfectly into that void. I felt like a kid putting a huge jigsaw puzzle together and finally snapping in the last piece. Everything was complete at 1:54pm. Our lives made perfect sense as we experienced God's unconditional love for us, though often puzzling, unfold into a beautiful masterpiece right in our arms.
Being a mommy has definitely changed my life in a huge way, but only for the better. Now, instead of watching the bachelor or whatever other TV shows I used to watch, I watch my baby boy drift off to sleep. Instead of hearing Michael Buble' play throughout the house while I clean, I hear the tunes of numerous lullabies. While I used to nap often on my days off, I find myself just watching him nap once he finally goes down. Instead of smelling like fancy perfumes, I usually smell like a new fragrance- Camden spit up. (I should patent that ;) ). I've learned that my child must not have very good hearing, because he falls asleep as I sing to him (or maybe that's his way of getting me to stop- ha!). I have spent nights just watching the video monitor "just one last time" to make sure "he's OK" before bed. I have given Camden more kisses than his daddy has probably ever had from me. The majority of my adult/girlfriend conversations don't revolve around fashion or entertainment anymore, but around breastfeeding, developmental milestones, sleep regressions, and teething. My once flat and hard stomach is a little less flat and a lot more fluffy (but we're working on that!). Mama doesn't always get her bubble bath anymore, but watching Camden play in his bath is way more fun. I've learned to speak baby-- which I sucked at previously. My house is a little less tidy and the laundry piles up a lot faster, but I've learned that it can wait. I've had to eat my words several times (don't say you will NEVER do something regarding parenting, because you will). I'm pretty sure now that I rely on nursing just as much, if not more, than Camden does. It's our bonding time, cuddle time, nurturing time.. and I already dread the day we wean. I can work a breast pump and Canon like a pro (food and pictures are necessities!). I never thought I would get excited over dirty diapers or gas, yet I have. I've grown a backbone and learned when to say "no", "thanks but no thanks", and be firm in our parenting decisions and how to take advice with a grain of salt. But most of all, I have learned to love on a much deeper level that I never knew was possible. Being a mom has changed me and I would not trade it for the world.

Now that all of my mommy mushiness is over.. here is a little update on my perfect man! He had his 4month check up yesterday and we dealt with the nasty S word.. shots. Poor baby did not handle them well. He cried for a solid 45 minutes once we got home until I finally got him settled-- then we snuggled up in bed and napped for 2 hours (another one of those things I said I'd never do-- whoops). Those shots must have gotten the best of him, because he slept from 8p-4:15a before waking up to nurse. Happy mama :)


How old: 17 weeks
Weight: 13lbs.. my little 25th percentile buddy ;).. but hey, we've double our birth weight!
Height: 24 inches
Hair color: blonde.. what's left of it!
Eyes: bright blue
Favorite food: mama's milk
Sleep: We've been struggling with the dreaded 4mo sleep regression.. but it looks like things are looking up again! 
Movement: Wiggle worm. He loves to "dance" and kick his legs. He also loves to grab his little toes!
Favorite "words": "hhheeeeeeeeeeeee"
Favorite toy: his duck hand puppet, O-ball football, mickey mouse lovie, swing
Favorite clothes: sleepers
Diaper size: 2s
Clothes size: 3month and 3-6month
Shoe size: 1
Likes: baths, music, gnawing everything he can get ahold of!
Dislikes: his carseat, unfortunately :(
Who does he favor? Depends on who you ask.. some people say Matt still and I have had a few people say he is starting to look like me. 

Time is flying..

Once again, I've been a slacker when it comes to posting. Oh well, I'm a full-time mommy and am back to working full-time again so I have a legit excuse, right? Right. Anyways, with that being said, I returned to work two weeks ago. It was tough, but bearable. I survived and worked through three 12-13 hour shifts without shedding a tear. Maybe that's because I cried the night before I had to go back as I rocked my sweet man to sleep. Tomorrow starts my stretch of working five days straight, which I haven't done since I returned from maternity leave. It's going to be super tough working five 13 hour days straight, but I know it'll get easier. Also, it doesn't help that I am fighting some sort of nasty bug/crud which seems to be getting worse each day. Hopefully I won't lose my voice, but it doesn't seem promising if this cough doesn't let up. Enough sob stories though, good news! I am a mere FIVE pounds away from my pre-pregnancy weight! But, I really don't care as long as all of my clothes fit again, which they do! Thank you, thank you, thank you breastfeeding!! As if I needed another reason to LOVE nursing :) Speaking of breastfeeding, I truly believe it is the best decision I could have made/am making for my baby. He is doing so well at switching between breast and bottle since I've gone back to work. Pumping isn't so bad (I get a sit down break!), but I definitely would prefer to just tote my little cuddle buddy around ;) We're almost at the 3 month mark of nursing, and I am proud to say we haven't had to supplement one single time (not that there is anything wrong with those BF mom's who do for baby's best interest!). Our plans are to exclusively breastfeed for six months and then introduce solids-- so we are halfway there! Our long-term plan is to nurse for his first year of life. Don't worry, you guys won't see me on the cover of Time magazine for nursing a toddler. It does grate my nerves when people think I'm crazy for my goals I have set or for even still nursing Camden. But, personally, it's my decision and I feel like it's what is best for him. I'm so glad we stuck it out-- we make a great team :) Anyway, enough about mama.. here's an update on our sweet angel man!


How old: 11 weeks
Weight: As of Thanksgiving week, 11lbs5oz-- but I can tell he's put on some more ;)
Height: 21.5in at his 6 week check up
Hair color: blondish
Eyes: bright blue
Favorite food: mama's milk
Sleep: For the past 3 weeks, he has been waking up once to feed (a few nights he did twice) and sleeping in 6-8 hour intervals. We are HAPPY, RESTED parents.
Movement: He moves constantly. Kicking his feet and legs, throwing his hands in the air, moving his hand to his mouth (ughhhh), trying to roll over
Favorite "words": "eeeeeeee" and "gaaaaaaa" and an occasional scream
Favorite toy: activity mat and swing
Favorite clothes: sleepers
Diaper size: 1s
Clothes size: 3month
Shoe size: we haven't even tried shoes yet, whoops.
Likes: bath time, "talking", being tickled, bouncing 
Dislikes: tummy time and riding in the car (this may be the death of me.. ok, not really.. but still)
Who does he favor? "He looks JUST like Matt"- story of my life. But he has MAMA's big eyes! ;)

Alright, maybe I'll be able to update more.. but who am I kidding. I'll probably slack again. Oh well, 4:50am is coming too soon for this mama. Night!

Update: Mommy & Baby

Hey guys! So, I apologize and realize it has been wayyyyy too long since I have blogged about our sweet bundle of joy! Obviously, I do not have nearly hardly any time to blog anymore, but I will try to do better. Camden is absolutely the sweetest baby I have ever met. Ok, I know I'm SUPPOSED to say that because I'm his mama.. but really! He is an angel. I can't believe how quickly time is flying by. He turned 5 weeks old yesterday.. and I return to work in exactly one month. Bittersweet. I absolutely love my job.. but I love my boy(s) more. I have been so blessed with such a wonderful and supportive husband. He is the best daddy little Camden could have and the biggest help for me. We are loving every minute of learning how to be parents and falling more in love with him (and each other) daily. I had my post-partum checkup yesterday (completely healed-- YAY!) and Camden has already had one checkup (2 weeks) and will get his first set of vaccinations November 5. I don't care if I'm a nurse and accustomed to giving babies/children shots.. I am DREADING this day and the tears that will come with it. On a happier note, here's a quick little survey to fill you in on Camden and mommy.

Camden
How old: 5 weeks!
Weight: At his 2 week checkup, he was back to his birth weight of 6lb8oz.. But, being the curious mommy I am, I weighed him the other day and he was weighing in at a little over 8lbs! Growing :) 
Height: 21 inches last time we measured him
Hair color: blonde :)
Eyes: big, bright, and blue!
Favorite food: breast milk :-)
Movement: Wiggle WORM. He loves to flail his arms and kick his legs. He looks like he's dancing most of the time!
Favorite "words": I don't think he has starting "cooing" yet.. but he loves to grunt and go "eeeeeeeee"
Favorite toy: activity mat (unless we're using it for tummy time)
Favorite clothes: anything! He loves getting dressed!
Diaper size: newborn
Clothes size: newborn and some 0-3mo
Shoe size: Haven't even put shoes on him yet
Likes: baths, cuddling, nursing, being tickled by daddy, car rides, and being outside 
Dislikes: he hates his bouncy seat now :( , tummy time, losing his paci!
Who does he favor? That depends on who you ask! ha! Some say Matt, some say me. We think he is a good mix. One things for sure, he has mommy's eyes and daddy's hair line (haha!).

Mommy
Total weight loss since birth (Mommy): Down 18 pounds-- 8 more to go!
Maternity clothes? Nope-- but I did have to buy a pair of jeans one size up.. but I WILL be back in my pre-pregnancy pants by the end of the year!
Stretch marks? Never got any, and so very thankful.
Sleep: Hopefully I won't jinx us. Camden is doing really well. This past week, he has only woke me up once during the night to nurse. By the time he wakes up to nurse a second time, it's time for us to get up anyway. We are so thankful, especially me!
Miss Anything? I miss yesterdays. I know they are days we will NEVER get back. As much as I look forward to the things to come, I realize each yesterday is in the past and we won't get to relive anything about that day, so we are trying to savor every little moment.
Food cravings: Not craving any food, but I drink water ALL of the time. And nursing has given me an excuse for my hefty appetite ;) 
Belly Button: In again!
Wedding Rings: On
Happy or Moody: Happy, happy, happy. I had a few moments of "the blues" the week we were home, but it doesn't compare to the amount of joy I experience from being this boy's mama! 
Looking Forward to: Continuing to learn how to be the best mommy Camden can have. Looking forward to experiencing all of his "firsts". First holidays, first words, rolling over, etc.

Camden with Dr. Reeves. If it weren't for her, I would not have had such a wonderful experience being pregnant and delivering our son. We could not ask for a better doctor to work alongside the past 9 months.

Nursing: What Keeps Me Going

Disclosure: This post is dedicated solely to breastfeeding. If this topic offends you/weirds you out, I suggest you quit reading right about... now. 
While not the most popular form (or easiest) of feeding your child, and definitely one that is (unfortunately) usually frowned upon, I am a firm believer in the benefits (for both mom and baby) of breastfeeding. From the time we found out we were expecting, I had my mind set on breastfeeding. However, I wasn't aware just how challenging it would be during those first few weeks. Camden and I had to overcome some bumps in the road, (thank God for friends who walked this path before me and a very supportive husband) but we stuck it out and I could not be happier. Don't get me wrong, I do realize there are a certain percent of mothers that simply cannot breastfeed (or choose not to), so I am not saying it is always the best choice for everyone, but for me, it is/was. Although it is tiring and drains me physically, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I stole this list from a sweet friend, but here are several reasons that keep me going/will keep me going. 

-The way that God designed a mother's body to nurture her child is mind blowing. As if I needed MORE proof that God exists, BF proves it over and over :)
-Looking in your babies eyes.
-Holding your sweet little one.
-Getting a BREAK to sit down with a super good excuse.
-Makes you feel relaxed.
-It really is easier in the long run.
-Even after a busy, crazy, day with a baby and a bunch of other people/visitors, you can look back and know that you held your baby a few times that day.
-Getting an extra hour of sleep after the morning wake up when you nurse them back to sleep.
-Being the person who feeds your baby skin to skin is a good feeling. It is like you and only you fed somebody and helped them grow. Amazing.
-You know when you are nursing a baby that you were productive that day even if the dishes need doing.
-It magically makes them stay babies. For real.
-Babies are quiet when they nurse.
-Fixing sadness.
-Portable.
-No runs to the store.
-Breasts are easy to clean, and don’t usually need to be sanitized. (I am just kidding. I never sanitize mine.)
-La Leche League- cool ladies, great friends.
-It just makes sense.
-Sneaking out of church to go to the mother’s room where it is quiet, but you can still hear the sermon.
-No getting up to prep anything in the middle of the night- it is a self-serve system!
-Lactating breasts are like a free pharmacy for the whole family! Ear infection, gooey eye, runny nose- NO PROBLEM! A little milk can fix it up.
-Unoffensive poo.
-Liquid diet for sickies means they still get nourishment when they are sick.
-Milk sharing. It just makes a mama feel like she is helping someone when she can share milk with a friend who really needs it for their baby.
-One less thing to buy.
-Seems to magically calm the whole house.
-Gives you time to read a little (before they are grabby) which is just so NICE when you are a busy mom.
-A meal that requires NO DISHES!!!!
-A meal that requires no preparation!
-A meal that requires no shopping!
-One less thing in the diaper bag.
-MONEY- it is saved.
-The little games they play that only you see while they nurse.
-Sweet nursing noises. Nothing like a slurping baby.
-Getting thin faster.
-Of course, there is also the added bonus of being able to say, “I’m nursing, I need the extra 500 calories,” as you mainline donuts. Though admittedly, this may interfere with previous reason.
-Perspective. It teaches you what your body is capable of.
-Milk drunk babies.
-Milky drool. Cute.
-Sleepy milky smiles.
-Putting a baby to sleep with your body is really pretty special.
-Legal protection to nurse most anywhere.
-It ticks off Barbra Walters.
-Such HEALTHY babies! The nursing baby is the healthiest person in the house.
-Calmer baby
-You can travel light! Baby, mama, diaper- GO!
-Sisterhood.
-It is fabulous to do something for your baby that nobody else can do.
-Feeling fabulous about something after you just had a baby can be a big bonus when your hormones are going wacko.
-NO AUNT FLOW!!!!!!!!!
-A quiet phone call (while they nurse.)
-Makes you love them more.
-Slows you down for a minute.
-Oxytocin.
-Builds confidence.
-Hello- you grew a baby- and now you are feeding one!
-Bonding.
-Never forget a snack.
-It is nice to be somebodies favorite person for a while.
-The original COMFORT food.
-Guilt free comfort food.
-At the end of the day, after all the mistakes, I know at least I did one thing right.
-Teaches you about your baby.
-Gives you your first chance to teach your baby and work together towards a common goal.
-Builds a relationship without words.
-Strangely makes me feel like a feminist.
-Feels very feminine also.
-Snuggles.
-A little person who loves you and doesn’t see chub or fluff, they just see a warm, soft, pillow.
-Memories for later.
-No leftovers.
-No waste.
-Self satisfaction of knowing you did your part to save the ozone.
-"I'm nursing"- always a good answer!
-Self regulating.
-It is just cool when your milk lets down and then the baby wakes up. Being totally in sync with another human is amazing.
-Increases and decreases as needed.
-Healthier mama.
-Happier mama.
-Being needed.
-Needing somebody else.
-Dad can do so many things I can’t do, it is nice to have something that I can do special our baby.
-Breastfed baby smell.
-Breastfed baby skin.
-I might not look that good in tights, but making milk is a superpower!
-Chatting with moms about nursing- it just is awesome to be able to share and learn and teach each other.
-Sometimes you just need a good reason to buy a new bra.
-LOVE

Camden's here!

How old? 8 days. Born September 19, 2012 at 1:54pm. alb 8oz 19in and absolutely perfect!

Total weight loss since birth (Mommy): Down 14 pounds, so far. Still have 12 left before I reach my pre-pregnancy weight.. but I'm ok if I don't reach that. He's worth it :)

Maternity clothes? Pants, yes. My weight is distributed all funky like.. but I'll be back in those jeans one day!

Stretch marks? Never got any, and so very thankful.

Sleep: Knock on wood.. but we are actually getting sleep, and good sleep at that! The first two nights were rough, though. Now, Camden is sleeping about 4 hours then waking up to nurse then sleeping about 4 more hours before we get up. It's so wonderful! And I am sleeping comfortably! 

Miss Anything? I miss the day he was born. That was, hands down, one of the best and happiest days of my life. I am so thankful God allowed us to experience that day and I'll cherish it forever. 

Movement: When he's awake, he's a little wiggle worm! He loves to hold his own paci. He also likes to kick his legs a lot!

Food cravings: Not craving any food, but I drink water ALL of the time. And nursing has given me an excuse for my hefty appetite ;) 

Anything making you queasy or sick: No! Everything is perfect.

Gender: Boy!! 

Name: Camden William gates 

Belly Button: In again!

Wedding Rings: Back on. I had to remove them for delivery and I got swollen shortly after delivery and was able to finally get them back on today!

Happy or Moody: Happy. Beyond blessed. We have experienced love at first sight and a love that grows deeper and deeper every day. I feel like I could explode when I think about the joy he has brought to our lives. Angel from God.

Looking Forward to: Nothing. If I could make time stand still, I would. I savor every little moment we spend together. 3am feedings, dirty diapers, that sweet little cry. Every bit of it is so worth it and I don't want to miss a single memory. He will be grown before I know it (tearing up now thinking about it), and I want to enjoy him being a baby as long as I can.

Next Appointment: Camden: October 3; Mommy: October 24

Our delivery story: We went into the hospital 9/19 at 5:30am to be induced. When we arrived, they realized I was already having contractions every 3-5 minutes (we had been praying for this). My doctor came in at 8:15 and broke my water and checked me (3cm). I was given a small amount of Pitocin to keep my contractions regulated. At 9:00, I received my epidural (judge me if you must, but it was my best friend [until I got too much!]). Matt and I just laid around and watched TV as our families were in and out to visit. My doctor came back in at 11:30 to check me and I had progressed to 6cm. She told me she would be back around 1 to check again and then go back to the office for awhile. Dr. R came back in at 1 o'clock and checked me. When she did, her eyes got big and she looked at us and said "it's time to have a baby!." I had progressed to 10cm. It happened so fast and caught me off guard that I didn't even have time to panic, all I knew was we were about to meet our baby boy. At 1:54pm, Camden stole our hearts.

39 weeks and counting.

These past few weeks have been a waiting game and have felt like an ETERNITY. It's crazy to believe that we are in the 'last' week of this pregnancy and could be holding our sweet little man any day now! Everything is good to go: the nursery is finished, the bags are packed, the car seat is installed.. all we need now is little Camden to make his grand appearance! But, to the ladies in our church.. don't worry. I think Camden has heeded ALL of y'alls advice and is waiting until his shower is over tomorrow! You guys win (maybe..) ;) I often have joked with people when they ask "when is he going to make his appearance" and respond with "why would he want to come out? He has a 24 hour buffet and a jacuzzi!" Sounds pretty comfy, right? Well, it's not too comfy for mama anymore! But I wouldn't trade all of the aches and pains for anything.. especially knowing he is right around the corner! So.. here's our hopefully last update!

How far along? 39 weeks

Total weight gain: 26 pounds

Maternity clothes?: mainly, yes.

Stretch marks? None so far! :) *fingers crossed*

Sleep: Getting worse this past week. But, I'm extremely thankful that I have generally had great sleep during the pregnancy. I can handle a week or two of some bad nights.

Miss anything?: Being able to do anything without this 26 pound bowling ball hanging in front of me ;)

Movement: OUCH! He is so crammed inside of me that, I hate to say this, but I cringe sometimes when he moves. It can be so painful at times. I know he can't wait to be able to stretch those arms and legs out!

Food cravings: Anything and everything. Now that he has 'dropped', I have more room around my stomach and constantly eat.

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Lying flat on my back, going too long without eating, getting too hot.

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: At our last appointment (this past Wednesday), my doctor checked me and said I was in between 2 and 3 cm dilated, so maybe that will help once I go into full labor. I also let her sweep my membranes.. that just left me feeling crampy and miserable for the remainder of the day. These past few days, however, my braxton hicks seem to have quadrupled and I've been a lot more cramp. Maybe these BH contractions will turn into real ones soon ;)

Belly Button: outie. :(

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: Back and hip pain. Tired. Crampy. Frequent bathroom trips. Difficulty getting/staying comfortable.

Happy or Moody most of the time?: I've been extremely moody and irritable this past week, which I know is because I'm just so ready for him to be here.

Looking forward to: Meeting our baby boy!

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

A Look at Camden: 37 weeks :)

So, a lot has happened since I last updated. First of all, my doctor sent me home from work. Because I had already dilated some when she checked me, she said she was afraid that working 13 hour shifts may have sent me into labor a little earlier than she thought was good for me and Camden. So, I ended up going out on medical leave two weeks earlier than the original plan.. but I'm not complaining too much :) It's been nice to have time to finish up some things around the house and make sure we have everything ready. It's also been nice to wake up when I want and sleep when I want (whenever I'm able). However, sitting around doing not much of anything is just helping me be even more anxious about meeting our baby boy! Hopefully, he will be here sooner than later! After all, I'm "term" now and good to go!

How far along? 37 weeks

Total weight gain: 23 pounds

Maternity clothes?: yes.. unless I'm in pajamas (which is quite often)

Stretch marks? None so far! :)

Sleep: Hit and miss. Some nights I wake up once, other nights I wake up 2 or 3 times. But I'm still able to sleep 'good' while I'm asleep.

Miss anything?: Being able to paint my toenails and shave my legs (and do a decent job). Walking without waddling. Not feeling like my stomach is going to read open. Breathing easily.

Movement: His movements have felt different this past week. Not really sure how to explain it, he's still moving a lot, just differently. 

Food cravings: Lemonade, lemonade, lemonade.. and this past week, I spilled all of my last pitcher on the kitchen floor.. :(

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Lying flat on my back. Everything shifts upward and I feel like I'm going to die. 

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: As of my appointment last Monday, I was dilated 1cm and "a little effaced", as my doctor put it. I also woke up Friday morning with some funny menstrual like cramps (TMI, sorry) that didn't let up. So we went to L&D (after talking with my nurse) and sure enough, the monitor was showing contractions. They just weren't strong enough or close enough together to do much right now. Maybe that means I'm making SOME sort of progress?! The on call doctor said he believed it could be any day now, so we will see. I go back to the doctor Tuesday so hopefully she will have some good news! If not, we will just keep playing the waiting game ;)

Belly Button: outie. :(

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: Back pain, shortness of breath, pelvic pain/pressure, frequent bathroom trips, a billion braxton hicks (which I HATE!), and a few mild contractions.

Happy or Moody most of the time?: Happy and anxious

Looking forward to: Our next appointment and meeting our baby boy whenever he comes!

Next Appointment: Tuesday, September 4

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

Update!

Sorry, but this post is going to be short and sweet. Although I LOVE being pregnant, I'm getting pretty uncomfortable and I am absolutely exhausted today. I had my weekly check-up this morning then came home and took a 4 hour nap. I'm already looking forward to going to bed tonight! I'm a sleeping machine :)

How far along? 35w1d

Total weight gain: 22 pounds

Maternity clothes?: Sometimes.. I'm loving yoga pants and plain t shirts a lot, haha

Stretch marks? None so far! :)

Sleep: Still pretty amazing! I may have a few nights I wake up once, but I usually sleep through the night. I'm also taking a LOT of naps and they are my best friend.

Miss anything?: Not feeling like I have a bowling ball in between my legs and being able to breath normally.

Movement: All of the time.. but he's getting pretty squished in there :)

Food cravings: Lemonade, lemonade, lemonade.

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Eating too much or not eating enough

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: No labor signs, but my doctor did say she thinks I am starting to efface when she checked me today.. yay!

Belly Button: semi-outie.. I had a kid at church tell me the other day "I can see your belly button now!".. uh.. haha

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: back/hip/rib discomfort, Braxton Hicks, reflux, and swollen ankles while I work

Happy or Moody most of the time?: Moody this week

Looking forward to: My next stretch of off days from work!

Next Appointment: August 27, next Monday

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

Counting Down!

It's crazy to believe we have less than 7 weeks until our due date.. and that I'll be considered "term" in less than 4 weeks! We are getting so anxious and excited to meet our sweet angel! I find myself thinking about it more and more each day and am so thankful God has blessed us with the opportunity to be his parents! Romeo can't wait to be a big brother either.. he loves the nursery! We've started letting him sniff/sleep/cuddle with some of Camden's things so he is used to the "baby" smell.. it is so sweet! I'm also really looking forward to my maternity leave. I LOVE my job.. but 13 hour shifts are getting a tad bit harder now ;) We are now going to the doctor every week for check-ups and she will 'measure' Camden in two weeks to get an estimated weight and position (he's headed in the right direction according to our sonogram today)!

How far along? 33w2d

Total weight gain: 21 pounds

Maternity clothes?: I have one pair of maternity shorts I wear occasionally. I also have a few tops. I mainly wear loose sundresses if I'm out and t-shirts/PJs at the house. The rest of my time, I'm in scrubs!

Stretch marks? None so far! :)

Sleep: It all just depends! I'm still sleeping pretty solid through the night. I have had a few nights that I wake up to use the bathroom or get comfortable. For the most part, though, I've been sleeping at least 7 straight hours which is AMAZING.

Miss anything?: Not being the "slow poke" in the crowd (it takes me a little longer to get around now!). Painting my toe nails/shaving my legs comfortable (I can still manage though!). Eating without getting reflux.

Movement: I think Camden may grow up to be a kicker.. he sure is practicing his field goals in my right ribs :)

Food cravings: Coke icees! And anything "icy"-- snow cones, frozen drinks, etc.

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Eating too much

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: I wouldn't say labor "signs".. but Braxton Hicks have become my best friend, especially when I work. So, I've been told to "take it easy" whenever I'm not at work, prop up my feet, and sleep.. which is what I'm fixing to do!

Belly Button: semi-outie

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: back/hip/rib discomfort, Braxton Hicks, reflux, and swollen ankles while I work

Happy or Moody most of the time?: Happy :)

Looking forward to: Baby shower Saturday! And seeing our little man again next week!

Next Appointment: August 13, next Monday

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

10 more weeks!

It's hard to believe we only have 10 more weeks (at most) until we meet our sweet little man! As much as I am enjoying being pregnant, I am so ready to hold him, rock him, feed him, etc. We are getting very anxious as our due date draws closer!

 

How far along? 30w3d

Total weight gain: close to 20 pounds

Maternity clothes?: Maternity pants/shorts, yes! I finally had to get a bigger size scrubs for work. I'm still wearing some of my pre-pregnancy clothes, just not very comfortably :) 

Stretch marks? not yet! Hoping it stays that way :)

Sleep: Some nights are great, others are awful. I guess God is preparing me for late night/early morning feedings ;)

Miss anything?: Being able to bend over without my stomach getting in the way.. being able to shave my legs and paint my toenails easily.. and being able to walk more than 60 seconds without losing my breath! haha

Movement: Our little football player is such an active little man :)

Food cravings: Coke icees!

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Certain smells at work and heartburn

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: nope

Belly Button: It's trying to push its way outward

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms:back/hip pain, waddling, shortness of breath, and reflux

Happy or Moody most of the time?: happy most of the time :)

Looking forward to: Our next baby shower! We had one this past Sunday and it was such a blessing. Also, ready to meet him!

Next Appointment: July 23

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

Finishing Up Trimester 2!

It is so crazy to me to think that we are almost through the second trimester! Only about a week and a half left! We are going to the doctor every 2 weeks now.. It's crazy to think that we only have 3 months left before our little man is here in our arms! I cannot wait to meet him.. I love him so much already :)

How far along? 26w2d

Total weight gain: 13-14 pounds

Maternity clothes?: some.. depends on what it is. I'm still wearing about 3/4 of my pre-pregnancy clothes.. I did, however, purchase a few maternity shirts and dresses that I am in LOVE with. I'm still wearing my pre-pregnancy pants, but with a belly band. 

Stretch marks? not yet! Hoping it stays that way :)

Sleep: You win some, you lose some! Haha. Some nights are great, other nights are terrible. I find myself taking naps on every off day from work. 

Miss anything?: It taking less than thirty minutes to get comfortable in bed and not having these random pain/discomforts (and I know it's not gonna get any more comfortable)

Movement: I have a little punter baking inside of me.. or acrobat.. or boxer.. He's been so active the past few days. We laid in bed Saturday morning for about 30 minutes and just watched him move around in my stomach!

Food cravings: I haven't had any "crazy" cravings during this entire pregnancy. I'll have stretches where I like specific foods more than other, but nothing I just HAVE to have. I just like to eat :)

Anything making you queasy or sick?: Certain smells at work.. gag. 

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: nope

Belly Button: Still semi-normal

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: back pain, pelvic pressure, and REFLUX, REFLUX, REFLUX (does not matter WHAT I eat).

Happy or Moody most of the time?: This past week has been a roller coaster.. laugh, cry, laugh, cry.

Looking forward to: Our next appointment and our 4d sonogram on the 29th!

Next Appointment: June 25

Nursery Theme & Colors: Classic/calm.. light blue, white, and gray

Baby Update!

Hey guys! It's been about a month since I last blogged and updated y'all on the pregnancy and our sweet man! So since I went to the doctor this past week, I figured now would be a good time for an update! At my last visit (last Friday), my doctor said everything was as "perfect as it could be." This is SUCH a blessing to us. I'm afraid that all too often, we all are guilty of taking life for granted, especially healthy lives. We also take for granted the ability to be parents, when there are so many people out there who would give all they had to experience pregnancy and parenthood. With that being said, I am very grateful that God has allowed us to experience this and to bless us with a, so far, "perfect" pregnancy. 

We have also made a lot of progress on Camden's nursery! Matt finished painting it yesterday while I was at work and most of his furniture and bedding is here. I ordered the glider/rocker this afternoon and am so ready to see it in person! The glider and crib sheet are the last things we lack to be shipped to us. Then, it'll be time to DECORATE! Yay! I get so excited every time I walk in the nursery and think about having our little man in there in 4 short months!

Here's another quick rundown on everything!

How far along? 23w1d

Total weight gain: 10 pounds

Maternity clothes?: nope

Stretch marks? none

Sleep: I have fortunately slept straight through the next for the past three nights, but the nights before were awful. Things are beginning to shift and get a tad bit uncomfortable.

Miss anything?: Being able to move quickly and lay however without sharp tummy pains

Movement: I'm convinced we have a little athlete baking inside.. He loves to throw his elbows and kick!

Food cravings: Not necessarily cravings, but I am in LOVE with those little mandarin oranges/cuties! 

Anything making you queasy or sick?: an empty tummy and the smell of vomit (which is unavoidable at work)

Gender: Boy!

Name: Camden William Gates

Labor Signs: nope

Belly Button: quickly growing outward :/

Wedding Rings: On

Symptoms: low back pain and rib pain

Happy or Moody most of the time?: mainly happy!

Looking forward to: continuing to fix up the nursery and scheduling our 4D sonogram!

Next Appointment: June 25

Nursery Theme & Colors: Clean/classy.. light blue, white, and gray

..And like I promised with the last post, here are a few pictures from our reveal party! Enjoy! :)