BIG, round, adorable baby boy...

Well, today's doctor's visit included another ultrasound to estimate baby's size and position. Of course, the ultrasound was another magical moment for Jared and me. First thing's first - baby boy is still a boy! There's no doubt about that.

We were able to see his face pretty clearly and wow, does he look just like his daddy. Baby had the hiccups the whole time so we could see his little body jump - so cute! The tech said baby looked like he was pouting and was definitely "showing off." It's funny that everytime we've had an ultrasound, the techs always say those exact words - "showing off." Guess we're in for a treat!

We also saw baby's heart, bladder, kidneys, etc. All systems are a go! Round belly and a big, round head.

Then, of course, we saw the feet and hands - both are big. But, baby's feet are enormous!!! Jared said he doubts he'll even be able to wear the cute little baby shoes he's been given. He has long skinny fingers that you can see in the picture where he's waving at us!

After all the measurements and viewing, the tech estimates his weight at 6 pounds, 10 ounces. Oh my goodness! That's a lot already and if he grows 1/2 a pound a week for another 4 weeks that's almost a 9 pound baby. Can you say ouch?!

After a cervical check, it looks like it's going to still be a while because I'm still "long and thick." So, the doctor said it will likely be later than sooner. That's okay because I'm still feeling really good and not having any problems (other than my swollen, ogre foot). Even the numb, swollen hands aren't as bad as they used to be.

All in all, it was another great day of pregnancy! Jared and I are still so excited to meet our little man, but are content with waiting another few weeks to see him.

Next doctor's appointment: Tuesday, September 2nd.

Still growing....

History is made!

It's official, Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate for President in 2008. This is a truly historic event for our country. More than that, it means so much to our family.

I can't help but think about what an amazing moment it will be when I can tell my son, "See, you can be anything you want to be, even President of the United States." It will be so helpful for our son to see a reflection of himself when he looks at one of the most powerful people in the world. I imagine it sending a strong message to baby Kelly as he grows into a man to be okay with his mixed race, to be proud of his heritage, and to trust in his identity.

Obama for President! Unity for Americans!

Nesting

Since moving into a new house, a certain amount of nesting is inevitable. However, I can say that now I'm fully nesting! I can spot a speck of dirt a mile away and can't rest until it's gone.

Today's example: the ledge above the window in the bathroom has been collecting dust for who knows how long. Today, I finally hopped up onto the toliet so that I could reach and wiped the dust away. In the process, I noticed also noticed the paint was chiped on the window and seriously considered painting it. I would've too, if I didn't have to go down the steps to get the paint! In addition, I hung a set of curtains, did loads of laundry, swept the floors, cleaned the bathroom, wiped off the wall where Rosco eats and splashes water everywhere, and wiped off some unknown yellowish substance from the front door! I even cleaned the baseboards - apparently that's the nesting cliche.

It's a good thing my nesting instincts are put into check my enormous belly, aching back, and swollen feet/hands. Otherwise, we'd really be in trouble.

I feel bad for Jared because the things that I want done that I can't do, he has to do. And, that's a lot! Luckily, he takes it all in stride and always gets things done (even if it is on his timeline and not mine). =)

Week 35

Here's the baby bump at Week 35. Where's my head though??? =)

Still growing...

Pregnancy Survey

About the mommy.
Name: Mandy
Age: 29
Is this the first child?: yes

About the daddy.
Name: Jared
Age: 27


Finding out.
What day did you find out you were pregnant?: Thursday, January 17th, 5:30 AM
How did you feel when you found out?: mostly shocked because I thought I had problems getting pregnant. But, I also felt apprehensive about telling Jared because we had recently decided to wait another year. I only really felt truly excited after Jared said he was excited!
Who was with you?: I was alone because Jared was working in California. I was a couple days late, but hadn't really thought much about it. But, I took a test as soon as I woke up that morning and it turned positive right away. I could hardly believe it! I started sobbing and wanted to take another one, but couldn't pee anymore. I even checked the directions to make sure I was seeing a positive sign. Then, I called Jared. It was 3:30 in the morning in California and I woke him up sobbing on the phone. Of course, he asked what was wrong? I said, "I'm pregnant." He said, "What??" I don't know if he said that because he was shocked or if he couldn't understand me because I was crying so hard. So, I said it again, "I'm pregnant." Jared said, "So, why are you crying?" He couldn't understand why I was crying so hard - and truthfully I wasn't sure either (mostly shocked and scared Jared would be upset). But, as usual, Jared calmed me down as soon as he said, "I'm excited!" So, then we talked for about 30 minutes sharing our excitement together - it was a really special moment even though it was over the phone.
How did the daddy react?: Total excitement right from the get-go.

Telling the grandparents.
How did your parents react?: excited! Mom about flipped when we told her because I said, "Well, are you ready to be a grandma times 3?" She thought we were having triplets! Really, I just meant because she already has 2 grandkids, that this would make 3. Ha ha!
How did his parents react?: Very happy, I guess! Jared called and told nearly everyone before I got home from work! I only got to hear his mom's reaction - which was total excitement at the news that she was going to be having a grandbaby.

About the pregnancy.
When is your due date?: September 24th
How far along are you right now?: 35 weeks tomorrow
Have you had an ultra sound?: Yes, the initial ultrasound at 8 weeks - our first glimpse of baby boy. Then, we had a 3D ultrasound on May 5th where we learned we are having a boy (note: This was one of the most special days of my life.) I have one more ultrasound scheduled for next Thursday (9/28) to check baby's size and position (hoping he's still a boy!).
Have you heard the heartbeat?: yes, I hear the sweet sound every time I go to the doctor.

Sex of the baby.
What do you want. Boy or Girl?: We both wanted a boy.
Do you know what you are having now?: Yes, a boy!
Are you happy with what you are having?: Yes, beyond excited! Jared can't wait to play basketball with his little man. I'm just happy that we didn't have a pink explosion!

About the birth.
Who is going to be with you?: Jared, Mom, and Darla
Are you going to video tape it?: I haven't decided yet....probably.
Natural or medicated?: medicated, no doubt
Do you think you will have a c-section?: I hope not, but will do whatever's best for baby.
Do you think you will cry when you first hold your baby?: Definitely. I bet Daddy will too!
Do you know what you will say to the baby when you first hold it?: Not sure, but likely "Happy Birthday little one. It's nice to finally meet you!"
Are you scared about the labor?: Yes, but at the same time, there is no going back now! I just hope I can get through it without having a panic attack (which it typical when I'm in a high-stress situation where I don't really know what's going to happen). As long as Jared is there, I will be okay because he'll make me feel safe and make me laugh!

Names.
Do you have a name picked out?: No, we're struggling here. Jared and I both have a name we like and unfortunately, it's not the same one! We're both being stubborn too.
Is your baby going to be named after anyone?: Hopefully, his middle name will be Robert after Jared, Jared's dad, my dad, Uncle Jon, and my grandpa.
Did the daddy help pick the name?: To be determined...

Other random questions.
Have you felt the baby move?: Absolutely, he's quite active. He usually has two or three days of nearly constant movement and then one day of quiet.
What was your first symptom?: My gums were swollen and sore!
What is the babys room theme?: Cocoa Baby - Jungle Safari
Are you ready to be a mommy?: as ready as I'll ever be!
What do you think the baby will be a "daddys girl/boy" or a "mommys girl/boy"?: I'm hoping for a mommy's boy, but at the same time know that our little man will completely adore his daddy!

He's "dropped"...

Last night was an interesting one! From the time I got home from work, Rosco was acting really strange. She was pacing back and forth and followed me everywhere (even into the bathroom). She would put her nose on me and just stare at me. Well, Jared and I were convinced that she could sense something was happening.

I couldn't sleep - again... I woke up around 1am and stayed awake until abou 4 just thinking and watching the olympics. After I finally fell asleep, I woke up this morning to find a surprise. Just before I got in the shower, I happened to glance in the mirror. Woah! What happened? All the sudden my belly looks a lot lower. Apparently, what Rosco was sensing was the movement of the baby as he "dropped."

Now, I can breathe easier, but I have to pee more often. The biggest change is the fact that this event makes it even more apparent that Jared and I could be parents any day now. Yikes! I'm 34 weeks, 2 days today. Ideally, baby will wait another 3 weeks until after Labor Day at which time he'll be 37 weeks. According to the "What to Expect" book though, babies typically arrive 2 to 4 weeks after they "drop" in first time moms. Of course, he could go full term or even be late. But, still, this event makes us realize just how close we are to baby boy's arrival.

I'm starting to panic a bit! The school year just started and teachers need lots of support establishing reading and writing workshop. Plus, I'm in charge of several committees that have meetings scheduled for the next few weeks. On top of that, the baby's room isn't finished. We still have no crib or bassinet, clothes need to be washed and organized, decorations need to be hung, etc. I've put in request for help from friends and family, but we're so busy, we hardly have time to do anything. Not to mention that after a long day at work, I have no desire to do anything but put my feet up and sleep! Oh, and another thing not done - we haven't decided on a name!!!

On the other hand, I know that work will continue just fine without me and the things that need to be done around the house will get done. I'm very excited to meet our little man, but of course prefer him to be robust and healthy!

My next doctor's appointment is scheduled for August 28th. That will be the first time Dr. Collins checks for dilation. At that time, we're also getting another ultrasound - to determine position and estimate weight. I can hardly wait until then to get another glimpse of baby boy.


Who knew having a baby would be such a rollercoaster ride of emotions???

10 weeks to go!