Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas! It was Unit 2's first Christmas this year. She did so well at my mom's house and our house when my In-Laws came to visit. It's been a long and eventful year for my family and I. I'm grateful to be able to have the ones I love with me for this time.

Time Flies By

I can't believe how much 2012 has flown by. My little girl Lil' M is already three and is potty trained and off to preschool. She's been through a lot this year. It includes those two things plus me being admitted to hospital and her having a little sister. She's accepted every
change in her life pretty well, but up to this point she is acting out a little bit. I expected something to happen and I feel bad for her. Thank goodness she loves her sister.
I know that soon enough, it'll be the new year and and so forth. I'm learning to cherish every moment with my girls.

I went to my dentist and orthodontist last week. It's been about 5 months since I last went. When I told the orthodontist about why it's been so long (being hospitalized), she shared with me hat she lost her baby at 36 weeks! For no apparent reason, too. My gosh, I'm so lucky my baby made it out safely. Here I am thinking once you past 30 weeks, everything should be fine. It just shows you how life can be unpredictable.

I have one more month until I go back to work. I'm nervous because it'll be 6 months since I last worked and I'm going to leave my girls for the day. I hope my mom can handle both and we can handle both!

Potty On!!!

Oh my! Big M and I have been trying on and off for months to potty train her and it was not successful. Big M's technique was to have her in pullups and when she looks like she has to go, she has to sit in the toilet and try. At worst case, she can get a diaper and go, but back to pullups. Low and behold, the second day of doing this, she willingly went with me counting to 5 and hugging her as she was doing her business. For some reason, that worked. She seemed very happy and relieved to go. I hope she'll keep doing it. We're so proud of her!

Tired...

Baby is now 7 weeks old and doing good. She's starting to stay up in the days longer. She started cooing and doing her social smiles more often. While I'm loving these firsts, I'm sad that these days will go away before we know it. We are trying to discipline Lil' M during this time, too. From curving her tantrums, potty training (not well at all) to eating and drinking her milk under an hour.

I'm ridiculously mentally tired more than physical. I've gone through a lot and feel a bit lost at this point. I'm doing my best in taking care of the baby and oversee Lil' M which is so hard. Big M is doing his best to do the things I can't do w/Lil and house chores. I wish I can do more to help with the house, but the baby keeps my day so full.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Courtesy of my sweet boss, I had a ticket to take Lil' M to watch 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas' play at The Old Globe in Balboa Park. To prep and excite her about it, we borrowed the book and the DVD of it for her. That seemed to help her understand the play/musical. She clapped eagerly and swayed to the songs. We had a great time!

Random Ramblings

Baby and I are doing good. She's 5 weeks old already! We started having my mom give her a bottle do she can get used to someone else feeding her besides Big M. Unit 2 is quirky that she cries when she doesn't want to eat anymore because she needs to be burped or wants to stop eating and/or sleep. So it can get confusing.

I'm starting to learn her different types of cries. She has a variety of volume of cries and not just one. Though the older she gets, she does cry a little louder and longer. She loves being held sleeping! I have to put her down when she's past the REM sleep. It's amazing how she can appear totally past out, but when put down, immediately wakes up! Babies are so smart.

Gobble Gobble!!!

Happy Thanksgiving to my family (Unit 2's first one), friends, and bloggers! We are hosting our first Thanksgiving meal this year (not just doing sides only and lending the house out), but doing the entree. This time is too hectic for us to attempt cooking the turkey b/c of the obvious new baby. So, we just ordered a cooked meal from Albertsons.

Everyone from our families came and pitched in with lots of yummy side dishes. All the coordination was done from Big M. I couldn't help as far as cooking because of the baby. I wished I could've. Hopefully, next year will be better.

We also was able to take some photos of Lil' M, Unit 2, our niece, and their grandma (my MIL). It was cute. Though Lil' M didn't quite cooperate in the beginning. I know of some if it is a little bit of jealousy. She knows we love her the same, but I'm sure she rather have all of us 100%.

1 Month old Bday!

Happy 1 month birthday to Unit 2! It was only yesterday that we were wondering when she'd grace us with her presence. And here she is. Our lives are even fuller now. It's been going good so far. We're exhausted but not zombie-like.

Lil' M loves her, but she's starting to want "bad attention" now since she isn't an only child. We try our best to give her extra attention. Since we are both at home for the leave, she really expects to see and be with us all the time. Rude awakening when we return!

Well, Thanksgiving's 2 days away and Lil M's excited to see both families come to our house. I hope it works.

Meeting Baby E Pizza Party

Today we decided to have a small gathering of friends who live near us to meet Unit 2 at our house. We wanted to make it easy by having those who been wanting to meet her come over all at once while we had the energy.

We didn't want to do a bunch of onesie twosie visits and try to coordinate schedules. We did that with Lil' M and it was a bit hectic. I guess we're a bit more extroverted this time around. We just ordered a bunch of Costco Pizzas for our friends. Easy peasy. It went pretty well; much more relaxed than a birthday party! Thanks friends for stopping by :).

Week 3

Unit 2 is now 3 weeks and going strong. She is slowly staying awake 2x a day for some time. She likes to stare at our curtains and bare walls. We started having her have her tummy time on playmat. Can't believe it-little lady rolled from tummy to back THREE times! She can't do it from back to tummy thank goodness. Makes me nervous because she's young and I don't want her rolling in the middle of the night. It's good to know she's physically healthy.

So this week I've gotten a chance to drive and get out of the house solo. It felt great. I felt more like myself because I have to wear non-pjs and actually do my face. I haven't been myself since I was admitted to hospital. Of course I have to go home before baby's next feeding as I'm nursing her. My mom's given me grief for going out "early" and if baby cries too long-she freaks out since I'm the food source.

I've gone out and went clothes shopping for me because nothing fits me when I go out! So tops are easy to buy, but darnit the pants I can't fit in my regular size 4/5!!! I was so bummed. I know I know; it was stupid if me to even try on pants early this stage. I lost 8 pounds but stayed that way for 2 weeks. I pray I'll loose another 15 pounds to get back toy pre-prego weight.

"Days" and Confused

It's almost 3 weeks for (Unit 2) baby E and us! A newborn schedule is definitely around the clock and physically exhausting. I'm not even sure what day it is; feels like a Saturday everyday.

She eats every 2-3 hours and even every hour sometimes. I'm feeding her on demand, but the constant pooping after the eating is the tough part. Especially at night. Sometimes I'd change her diaper 3 times in one feeding session. At this rate, what tasks can I really do during the day if I'm going at this pace? How did our moms do it?

I have one more week (4 week old) until I introduce Unit 2 the bottle. I'm nervous and hope she can take both me and bottle. And most importantly, that she can take a cold bottle. My thought is that Lil' M didn't like the cold milk from bottle was because she was initially a BF baby (warm milk from the body) versus refrigerated milk and so we had to warm it up until she went bottleless (age 2 1/2).

This second time around, we're trying to learn from our mistakes with Lil' M and not repeat it with Unit 2.

2 Week Old Today

Happy 2 week old to our Baby E! She's a funny little lady. She likes to make "Zoolander" face and (gas?) smiles in her sleep.

We took her and Lil' M out yesterday to take advantage of the free November JCPenney family portraits deal. Baby pretty much slept through the session. She did open her eyes for some, but we didn't end up picking any of those for our printout. She even made her Zoolander face in one! Hilarious. Lil' M did a great job. A bit wiggly and curious about the props, but great at following photographer's instructions. It went fine, but I'm not really a fan of studio portraits; too posey and cheesy. In any case, we got the free first family picture from them.

In addition to Baby E turning 2 week old today, the Presidential Election was today. President Obama is our President again!

1st Week at Home

It's been a week at home with Baby E. She's 9 days old today. She is eating well. I'm able to nurse with her as I did with Lil' M. I'm so glad. I am exhausted, but not as zombie-like compared to our first time as parents with Lil' M. We now have a frame of reference.

I love staring at our baby. She's beautiful and glad to finally have her with our family. She reminds me of Lil' M, but I think she has more of my family genes in looks.

Even though it's our 2nd time around the block with a child, I still get nervous. I gotten used to Lil' M being a toddler and knowing how to express herself. Now, we are back to guessing what our baby needs.

Yesterday, Big M took Lil' M trick or treating for Halloween. Lil' M was a pirate and got a decent amount of candy. She was practicing her "trick or treat" phrase all week long. I gave out candy and even attempted to do it while nursing (with a privacy cloth). That only lasted for a few minutes; baby didn't like me moving around too much.

Overall, we're ok. This time, I'm feeling more soreness and I think I may have a little bit of the blues. Nothing serious, but noticeable for me.

Welcome Baby Girl "E"

This morning, 10/23/12, I woke up with painful contractions starting around 1:20 AM. I had bad cramps that were so bad and eventually made me feel the need to push. I knew not to push because I was going to do a c/s.

Even though I was fighting it, my body was trying to push naturally! It was the most uncomfortable feeling because I was resisting the urge to push and going through painful contractions that surged through my pelvis.

It's advised not to try vaginal deliveries after having a c/s in fear of the possibility of opening up the previous scar or have a uterine rupture.

My water didn't break this time around; so experiencing contraction pains were pretty painful that I was thinking/saying things I never thought I'd say to Big M. And I'm not really a emotional person when it comes to pain.

It seemed to take forever to get to hospital, but we made it 20 minutes later. They admitted me quickly to triage. But, when we were inside to OR, they seemed to be scrambling. Since it was unscheduled, I most likely wouldn't get my Dr. I got someone else.

I was already 9 cm dilated! They assumed I was going to do a vaginal birth at that rate. No way; I was in such pain that I didn't want to go through the entire labor for more hours. Just stop the pain and get her out please! The nurses were surprised and wasn't thrilled with my adamant C/S request because they literally had to scramble and get emergency staff for my surgery ASAP since I was already primed for pushing.

Even with time not being on our side, i truly believe that a higher power has been watching out for my baby and I all this time. As luck has it, they pushed me to a room that wasn't set up for surgery so I had to be sent to another room. Time's ticking!

During the surgery, I sense urgency in the way they talked. They were pretty calm so I didn't think much of it. Thank goodness because after the while surgery was done, I found out that my utereus had ruptured before they even went in! Evidently, when the surgeon opened me up, the umbilical cord popped out already, meaning the utereus had already opened up without them even slicing it open! They had to hurry up and look for baby to take out.

In the end, Baby E was born a healthy 5 lbs 8 ounces! That's good enough for me. I was so worried about her being less than 5 lbs.

After all the hardship these past months, she is here and we couldn't be any more thrilled to move on with our new addition. We love you baby!

Now it's baby's turn to look out the window of same hospital I was at months ago:

Week 38+3days

Everyone wants to know....Yes; I'm still pregnant! Don't worry friends, we'll tell you as soon as we have the baby. It's just a matter of when we get a moment that week.

Been off medication and full bed rest since Monday and still have contractions. Nothing serious yet. Ever since I started being a bit more mobile, it seems like I can sleep better. Also, not waking up at 11 pm and 5 AM to take medicine probably gives me more continuous sleep. I need lots of sleep where I can get it.

I got to go to eat pho yesterday and it was great. I started to go eat in kitchen now instead of in bed.

Just had my last Dr. appointment and NST today! We were able to get his OK for us not to go again next week. I mean we're only 5 days away from birth. What's the point if I can give birth already and we been fine during visits? I'll just have to continue to be aware of baby movements of course.

Just went to Costco shopping with Big M and it was a nice outing. I got their $1.35 swirl yogurt at the food court while waiting for our combo pizza order for dinner. I definitely get contractions being up and moving around. My mom thinks I'll have the baby this coming Monday instead of Wednesday (10/24). We shall see.

Week 38

Wow-I've passed the gestation age of Lil' M's birth gestation age (37-38 weeks). I've been off Nifedipine for two days now. I still get contractions, but nothing painful and consistent. I'm basically OK to get off bedrest and do more. Since I wanted to have more weight (possibly) to baby, I choose to lay low still.

However, I am allowing myself to get up more because it's pretty safe to have her now if I were to go into labor. I actually don't mind if it's this week. I'm ready as can be. I'd like to move on to the next chapter of our lives. I look forward to meeting our little girl. I look forward to not being in bed 99% of the time. I look forward to being part of my household again. I look forward to joining society again :). Multiple trips to BRU and Target here I come!

I'm nervous to do it all again, but I'm excited to have another chance to hold another beautiful baby again as I was blessed with Lil' M. I can't wait to physically hold and play with Lil' M. She's grown up so fast. I look forward to relieving my hubby from being Mr. Mom and Dad and caregiver. I'm lucky to have him take care of so much as I know not all men are like that. It's been rough, but it's going to be part of our past soon. I think it's made us aware of the bigger picture in life.

Speaking of BRU and Target, Big M took me there after my doctor's appointment. It was nice, but slow for me. My body can't exactly move like it normally does. Lots of rest. I enjoyed the brief outting. Well, if I want to go into labor now, there's no sense in not being mobile now. Just trying not to tire myself out. I do get contractions when up. I don't mind them if I want to go into labor, but the pressure on my belly/cervix feels uncomfortable.

Everyday's a different day-we'll see if it's this week or 10/24!

Lil' M's Early 3rd Birthday

Thank goodness I'm still pregnant ;). Reason is we wanted to throw her
a third birthday party earlier this year because we don't know when baby is coming. Her birthday's actually 10/25, so slightly early. We just had a successful one with our immediate family and Ninongs.

It was a Princess and the Frog theme. One of her favorite Disney Princesses aside from Rapunzel. We bought her the dress up costume and matching doll for Princess Tiana. She wore it the whole day! Her friend "A" (our co-worker's daughter) came and had a great time with each other. She enjoyed her Tiana cake, too.

We were worried baby was gonna try to debut her entrance on party day, but she was kind enough to hang on for her Ate ;).

I made all the little Princesses that came to the party crochet crowns and it seemed to be a hit.

Light at the End of the Tunnel

I'm scheduled for the c-section on 10/24/12 (39 weeks). Per my doctor's OK, I'm going to stop taking the contraction stopping Nifedipine pills next Monday. I'll be one day shy of 38 weeks. I can also be off bedrest, but I will most likely stay put to not over exert myself and keep baby cooking for a little longer.

My secret wish is to go to the newly opened Nordstrom Rack down the street from our place at the end of next week (38 weeks). Just for an hour at most. I'll see if hubby will let me. I just went into a store (Target) just now because I had to pee. We just came from doctor's office. That was the first time I've stepped foot inside a store since July 26. I caught a glimpse of clothes and accessories from far away as I left the restroom. I miss real physical shopping!!! It gets a bit tedious shopping online because you can't touch those things and get it on the spot. Though, I did enjoy the goodies I bought come to our front door weekly ;).

We've been blessed to have made it this far. From starting at 26 weeks to making it to 37 weeks of being PTL is awesome. I was terrified I wouldn't see it up the thirties. Mind over matter and following doctor's instructions seems to have helped.

Scary beautiful

Art piece making fun of the extreme Lady Gaga-like heels out there.

Yeah no....

http://thelook.today.com/_news/2012/10/10/14342075-painful-to-look-at-front-heeled-shoes-are-scary-beautiful?lite

Week 37

We are officially 37 weeks today, which means we are considered full term. :) Unit 2 is kicking harder and it's hard to breathe nowadays. My sleeping or lack of sleeping has been inconsistent. Most nights I think I get about 4 hours of sleep. I wake up at 11 AM and 5 AM to take my Nifedipine pills. The pills sometimes gives me acid reflux. Then, getting up to go bathroom.

Guess it's a preparation for the upcoming sleepless nights with baby. I'm excited and nervous to meet the baby. Even though this is the second time around, it's a new and different baby. Not all are the same. Still waiting for what day I'm going to do the C/S.

P.S. Here are the latest child and newborn crochet bear beanies I completed.

Almost there

We saw the High Risk Specialist yesterday and got good news. Baby is growing, but of course not as big as the "average". Sonogram says she's 4 lbs 12 oz. I hope she's going to be at least 5 lbs (and some change) when she is born.

Since everything else looks good, we will schedule for the C-section when I'm 39 weeks. Wow. It's coming closer. Of course, when I turn 39 weeks, it'll be 2 days away from Lil' M's third birthday. Doh! For the most part, we are good with planning life events, but not this time. Well I just hope for our baby to be healthy.

My doctor said its up to me if I stop taking Nifedipine at week 37 (which means next Tuesday!). At 37 weeks, babies are considered full term. Though, the possibility of me going into labor right after I stop taking it may happen. If baby was a good size right now, I'd consider stopping and letting whatever happen naturally. However, I hope for her to gain more weight, so I'll take it as long as possible. Though at 38 weeks, I may consider it. Sometimes nothing will happen. I'll still put myself on bed rest because it promotes good blood circulation to baby and added weight.

It'll be nice to hold our precious baby girl and get out of bed rest! I'm nervous even though it's our second time around the block. It's a different baby and we have a toddler to tend to now. I hope to be able to give equal attention to both kids.

I'll post when I'm to have my C/S.

Week 36

We made it to week 36! I couldn't sleep a wink last night. I find that I can't settle down the night before a doctor's visit. I get nervous and keep hoping that the visit and NST goes well at the visit. Today's visit went fine. Lately, baby keeps snoozing during the monitoring and we have to wake her up (eat snacks/ice water/buzz her) and it makes the session longer than 20 minutes. We are thrilled when it's done.

This week's full (Tues: Checkup & NST; Thurs: High Risk Specialist Appt; Fri: Checkup & NST).

Thursday's specialist appointment will be the last one. I know Unit #2 is smaller than "average", which I'm not surprised b/c I am petite and Lil' M was the same . They just makes me a little nervous. We'll find out more accuracy in this next appointment if all is ok. I just want to bake her a little more.

Dreams

At Week 35, I finally remember dreams of the future baby girl. I've had 2 dreams where I was either strolling or trying to place the traveler (w/her inside) in a more shadier place and not so bright. The dream was always filled with extreme brightness or too hot and I'm hoping to shade her. I think it's good to dream of sunshine. Here's a dream interpretation online:

"Brightness in dreams is common to people having powerful spiritual experiences or life changes."

Recent dream I had was of her was that I just got her home and was carrying around a good chubby sized baby and didn't know where I could put her down to sleep. I think I'm nervous about how to do this all over again and if I'll naturally remember everything again. I pray to stay pregnant at least 37 weeks (considered full term).

Week 35

Baby's getting really good strong moves and kicks now. She loves to move when I eat and try to sleep at night ;). It's the instant when I start chewing is when she moves. Like her "ate" [ah-they], she hiccups a lot in the womb. It's a weird feeling because it's a light pulsing sensation. I think it correlates to how they'll be out of the womb. At least that's what it seems like with Lil' M.

Well, I just finished putting/starting Lil M's first photo album today! It was only her first month photos, too. I know-so bad that she's almost 3 years old and now I get the time to do it. That's what digital pictures do-make us lazy and postpone printing. Ok as for me, it's also the need to personally retouch the photos that really stall me. I can just print them out blindly, but would be critical of the color/imperfections when they do come out.

Next is to print the rest of the key milestone photos of Lil' M from month 2 until present day. Good luck to me! Trying to do all this before we are blessed with Unit 2's arrival. Oh, before I do this, I gotta start working on Unit 2's birth announcement template. Lots to do!

Lazy Sunday Activities

While crocheting away some newborn headbands, I was also on a Rosanne (sitcom) kick that was on TV. There was a weekend marathon with a bunch of key episodes that basically wrapped up the whole series. I saw the last episodes before the final series ended. I didn't know that Darlene and David ended up having a premie (26 weeks) in the show! They showed the emotions they went through and it made me go through the same feelings I had when I was admitted. It was pretty close to reality rather than it being over dramatic (or "Hollywood" out). I was tempted to turn the channel because I didn't know if the baby was gonna not make it. I didn't change. In the end it looked like everyone was OK. The twister was the final episode was a shocker! Google the summary and you'll find out.

I hope to catch the Emmys tonight (which I never do) hoping to see if Mad Men will win!

Anyways, here are the newborn headbands I finished for my girls and my niece.

Week 34

So happy to still be pregnant and be in the 3x weeks! This week was the beginning of having to go twice a week to my doctor for checkup and take the Non-stress Test (NST). This is to ensure the baby and fluid levels are doing good. It seemed like a lot to do this twice until my due date, but it's to ensure that baby's OK. I'd rather get monitored like so and be home than being monitored daily and stuck in hospital.

My latest projects at home have been going well. I finished/printed and got my Shutterfly photo book for Lil' M's Disneyland trip. Came out nice-but I think the colors could be better (not as bright). Lastly, I'm starting a Pom-Pom crochet mat (for baby photography) and some newborn headbands. Crocheting can get tricky; many times I have to undo my work and start over (like 3xs) because something's not lined up. It's OK because hey I have time! Ha!

Happy weekend and it's the beginning of Fall!

Baby Blanket Finished

Woohoo! I finished the crochet baby blanket that has the nursery colors (violet and green). This was the third time at it lol. The first one was in the hospital (my first project) that started out as just violet and I didn't have enough yarn. So, I added a second color (green) to make yarn last-which became a striped blanket. Then, I didn't like how the edges were uneven. When I got home, with new bulk of yarn from Big M, I decided to start over because I want it to be close to perfect because this was my first blanket I made for Unit 2. This means next project here I come!

My Birthday

Yay! So happy to be home on my birthday. That's the gift I'm grateful for this year. I was bummed when I was in hospital thinking I'd probably spend all the holidays in there. SO lucky I'm not!

Today, I went to my Dr's visit and it went fine. Then, at my request, we'll have Popeyes chicken and Tea Station for my birthday meal ;). Lastly, it's Monday Night football with Chargers playing against Raiders as the first game! Go Bolts!

Pre-Bday Dinner

My thoughtful hubby cooked me my favorite pre-birthday dinner two days early. He made me surf and turf (steak and crab). It was delish ;). Unit 2 sure enjoyed it because she was moving a lot while I was eating.

I've been watching really good indie movies recently. May be biased, but I liked 2 movies that has Vietnamese themes: Foreign Letters and Owl and Sparrow.

Week 32

Another new week today! After all this is done, I sure will need a full massage b/c this bedrest has sure messed up my whole body. Also, I'm getting my pregnancy insomnia back. Unit 2 is a wiggly lil' lady. Now, her moves and kicks are stronger and sometimes hurts. I'll take it b/c I know she's healthy and active.

I sorted out Lil' M's old newborn to 3 months clothes and it brought back such good memories. I'm happy I'll be blessed to do the baby thing again. They are so precious. Baby stuff is so small! Our Lil' M is far from a baby-she is so expressive and opinionated for a almost 3 year old. I can't barely remember her as a baby. This is probably how our parents see us (still their babies and can't let us go).

Crochet Fanatic

I've gotten really addicted into doing crochet work ever since I found more things to do besides a blanket. Here's the baby beanie with flaps and braids second project I just completed. I made two (one for our niece and Unit 2). I have no idea if the fit is good, but hey it's my first time. Practice makes perfect :). Next project is a textured white blanket to use in our baby portrait session. I'll post whenever that's done. Big M just brought home a grip of yarn and supplies for me to finish my first striped baby blanket and a slew of new projects. Stay tuned!

Labor Day Weekend BBQ

We had out families come over for a BBQ lunch today for the Labor Day weekend. I got a chance to come and hang out downstairs so that I can see them and eat with them. Our baby niece, M, came to our house for the first time. She's so alert and is almost 2 months old already. Lil' M really likes her. I can see she was getting a bit needy and wanted her own daddy to pay attention to her because she saw her uncle hold Baby M. I won't be surprised if Lil' M does this when Unit 2 is here. I hope she'll be OK.

Unit 2 is always happy after I eat it seems. It even seems like within 10 minutes she's moving all around. I wonder if she can hear how much noises there were since the family came. I was happy to be able to celebrate a holiday weekend at home.

Mad over Mad Men

I got a chance to start watching all the episodes of Mad Men since I've been home. It's pretty good. Not what I thought it would be actually. It's geared more towards male characters than I thought. Some of the situations are a bit funny/ironic because of the 1950 era. For example, everyone lights up all the time (even pregnant lady) everywhere. Drinking and smoking at work 24/7. Even lying in bed. Imagine how that'd be now. These baby boomers must all had either liver cancer or lung cancer or all the above after everything's said and done.

The styles are interesting. Though, I don't know if Banana Republic's Mad Men line is any good. Maybe pencil skirt and blouse is what I'd like. Hot pants? I'll have to go look up this line and see for myself.

On a baby note, we are doing good so far. The days go by more faster at home. We're on our way to September! I now need to hurry up and buy last nursery decor items online. That reminds me, I'll need to check out what clothes to separate out for baby for hospital and home.

Week 31

It's been a few days at home and it's been very nice. Easier access to things and seeing my family has been great. I get to resume reading bedtime stories to Lil' M which is great. At least I don't miss out on things like that now. I know it was hard on Big M to have to coordinate time to visit me in the hospital (every other day). It's not like it's completely easy with me on bedrest, but it should be a lot more convenient for him.

To celebrate our 31 weeks, I went to the doctor's follow up appointment. So far it was fine. I guess I'll be going every 1.5 weeks moving forward. Did I mention I'm SO happy to be home?! ;)

Home Sweet Home

I was discharged last night after dinner. It was strange to sit in a car and see the city again. I was so excited to go home. As soon as I stepped foot inside the house, I can hear Lil' M squealing "Mommy?!". Then, my little munchkin comes running out from family room with a huge grin and gives me a big hug. I miss our home and family so much.

Big M prepped our bedroom to make it comfortable for my bedrest stay. I appreciate it. He got me a tv so I can watch in bed during the days. We never had a tv in our bedroom since we got married (7 years ago) b/c he believed that would cause insomnia if you do other things in the bedroom other than sleep. Well, it worked! I was an insomniac before we lived together. I used to have tv in my bedroom. It's nice to have now, but who knows how long it'll stay here. Probably until I'm done. TV is not all that anyways.

It's nice to be home. I'm trying to get used to it. I thought I was still hooked up to my former BFF last night. Lil' M stops by my bed to say hi to me. I swore I thought I heard the sound of the heart rate monitoring machine early this morning. Did I tell you I'm so ecstatic to be home?! :)

We're Going Home

Oh-em-gee!!! My dr. just stopped by and asked "Do you want to go home?" Drs. wanted me to get weaned off magnesium (through IV) once I hit the 30 week mark. So, they slowly weaned me on 8/21 and monitored me the same day and had a little hiccup. Basically, on 8/23 (completely off mag/IV), on top of the nifedipine every 6 hours, I had to take the another form of this pill, but meant for "use as needed". I was feeling bummed about it b/c I wasn't sure if that meant it wasn't working. However, what ended up was that they increased the dosage of the (every 6 hours) pill and it worked enough after that. I'm nervous, but my Dr. came by today and said as long as I don't have any physical changes and some contractions I don't feel that nurses see when I'm monitoring may not mean anything.

As long as I'm bedrest like I am in hospital and I will be on these pills, it s/b fine. Let's cross our fingers and hope I'll be fine at home and stay baking this little lady in my oven a little bit longer! <3

Week 30

We made it to week 30! I didn't realize I've been here for one month already. Let's cross our fingers for continuing weeks in the late thirties. Unit 2 is definitely moving alot. Since she's getting bigger, I feel her moves a lot more and sometimes I can't sleep. Just glad she's an active baby. It felt like it kinda went by fast for 4 weeks to go by. Now that I hope for another 4 weeks to shoot, it seems so far away. I look forward to all this passing successfully and resume my life. This has been rough, but I learned life I'd definitely not about obsessing over petty things.

I'm doing good on my striped blanket, just a little lopsided on the sides. Oh well, it's my first blanket. Today, I started learning to do a baby's beanie. We'll see where it takes me.

Keeping Sane

Happy Sunday! Well, Unit #2 (baby) had been very active and actually stays in one place because she's bigger now. She has occasional hiccups and reminds me of Lil' M when I was pregnant with her. Seems that she still hiccuped as a baby, too. I guess I may have another hiccuper!

We're doing ok. I'm just trying to keep my boredom down. Thanks to YouTube, I've self-taught myself to do a striped crochet blanket. I totally undid my blanket two times. Not bad for a first timer. My SIL & MIL brought me enough books and yarn to occupy my time. Surprisingly, I don't really watch that much cable tv. It's on just for some background noise. So much junk on tv!

Well, let's hope for a non-dramatic Sunday.

Week 29

Today's Unit 2's week 29. Looking forward to hitting the 3x weeks! Today's been long and tiresome for me. First morning baby monitoring went well (9:30 am-10:30 am). However, I was contracting too much and had to take nifedipine pill which resets the contraction monitoring to another hour. Usually I only get it at the night monitoring not daytime. Anyways, that pill wasn't doing such a great job today. So, had to take a new set of pills. Yay! I took indocin. That resets the clock for another 30 minutes. By the time I was done, it was 4 pm. After that, I had my US.

Cervix got a bit longer, but Specialist said not to hold on to that too much because my cervix is "dynamic". It can shrink or increase depending on when they do the US. Baby is good; weighing at 28 weeks at 29 weeks. Not a surprise b/c I most likely won't have a huge baby like with Lil M. Got to see some cool 3D pics of her. First thing sonographer commented was on her full lips! Ha! Same thing like Lil M. Man those full lips sure are strong in our genes.

I'm tired and grumpy today b/c I've been stuck lying down all day being monitored. I was feeling sleepy and gassy because I couldn't sit up too long after lunch since I was getting monitored right afterwards.

Specialist pretty much said I'm pretty much gonna be in hospital at least until 34 weeks if I can get weaned from magnesium. One day at a time...

Our 7th Year Wedding Anniversary

Today's Big M and my 7th wedding anniversary. Big M and Lil M visited me today and we had a nice dinner (Chilis' ribs!) and he surprised with some Nothing Bundt Cake. Not just one, but four cakes of different flavors to pick from! I ate the white chocolate raspberry one :). I'm glad to see them today. I never thought I'd be celebrating my wedding anniversary in a hospital. Se la vie.

First Crochet Class

I went to my first crochet class today! At first, I couldn't get it down and eventually I did ;). I'm doing the single crochet style for a blanket. I'm gonna do a purple one for Unit 2. Since the class is only once a week and I only have one line done, I'll have to self teach myself through YouTube before next week's class if I want more than a this string.

We'll see how far I go with it. I'm excited to do this!

Waiting

Yesterday's US showed my cervix got shorter. The Specialist that scanned me had a witty humor (that I normally like). He said "Yup, almost nothing there" and "Looks like you're ready to have a baby". That is not what I wanted to hear! So, I asked the nurse in the room more details. She confirmed I am shorter and my hospital routine prob. won't change.

I didn't expect to get discharged (at least at this time) because the past 2 nights I was having 6 contractions in one hour during my monitoring sessions and so I had to take a Nifedipine pills to further slow down contractions. Given this, I don't see how they'd wean me off magnesium. Therefore, I'm stuck to my BFF and in this hospital. I'm still waiting for my doctor (was told tomorrow) to give me the long term news.

I was OK bracing myself for the fact that I'm not going anywhere, but when my nurse asked me if I was OK, I didn't feel OK despite what I told her. That moment I felt sad. I'm not going home-I'm not going to see Big M and Lil M daily. I know things at home are being taken care of, but I know it's draining Big M and I'm scared Lil M will be weirded out by having me back when I do come back. So far, she's pretty emotionally stable. Thank goodness.

I feel grumpy today. Last night's monitoring sucked. Started at 11 pm and ended at 2 am. The nurse that night kept asking if I felt the contractions. No, of course not; I'm trying to sleep!!! My contractions don't hurt (so far). Also, waiting for my doctor's response is keeping me on my toes. I'll keep you posted.

OK, here's what the monitoring process looks like:

--monitor machine spits out a graph of the monitoring.
--2 belts on my tummy to monitor baby's heart rate (blue block) and contractions (gray block).

28 Weeks

I made it to 28 weeks! Nervous about what my doctor's gonna tell me today. I should be getting an US today. I hope I haven't gotten worse and just stayed stable since the last time they saw me. I pray (never prayed so much in my life until recently) that I'm progressing. The baby is good so far from the monitoring. She was moving alot last night when I was sleeping ;). My own lil gymnast. Hope she stays put for a little longer.

Thank goodness I have family and true friends to support me through this or else I'd be an emotional wreak. I believe health and psychological being go hand in hand. Mind over matter. I'm lucky I'm not a hormonal person in general, so this helps my situation in remaining calm.

I learned that the friends that I thought were my friends are truly there for me. Even if I can't physically see some of my gfs, I appreciate that they k.i.t w/me regularly. I know there's not much anyone can do for me, but keeping me in high spirits is all I need. Love you my friends and family.

OK next to my BFF (see past post on who my recent BFF is), I also have to blow into this Incentive Spirometry machine every other hour daily. It's an exercise to help expand my lungs given I'm on bedrest. I hated it when I first tried it b/c it was hard. The more I tried, the more I'm getting better at it.

Visitor/TV Sunday

I thought I was going to be solo today b/c I didn't intend to have Big M and Lil' M visit since they already have for past two days. And I thought there was a needlework class today.

Nopes-I was told Lil' M wanted to see me after watching a scene from Totoro where the mom was in the hospital. She was reminded of her own mommy I guess. She kept asking Big M if she'll see me today. :( How can I say no to that? Ok-I'll see them for lunch then! :)

Since the needlework class wasn't actually on Sundays, then I let my boss know that she could visit me b/c she asked earlier in the week. She came when Big M and Lil' M were almost on their way out. I wanted Lil' M to meet my boss (LG) for the first time. LG's so sweet; she gave Lil' M her first Easter bunny and blanket set when she was born. Been meaning for them to meet and here was the opportunity.

So LG and Lil' M meet and it was a cute meeting. LG stayed and chatted with me for a bit. We had good conversations and she brought me a potted orchid and a scrapbook picture frame holder. She's such a caring person. I'm SO blessed to have been able to work for such a caring person. I mean overall (not just b/c she brought me gifts). She's supported me through tough work times when I was first hired into her team and have k.i.t. with me during this leave. She's a devout Christian who is not pushy and truly cares about people. I highly respect her and I was certainly OK with her visiting me. It's been a long time since I liked a boss.

So after her visit, I ended up watching more TV than I normally do in a day. I saw:

1) Toddlers & Tiaras: I know I know-why would I watch this mess? There was nothing to watch and it helps me learn "what not to do" w/my kids! Ha! I so do not condone kid pageants. I was so disgusted at how these parents push their lil girls to look like 36 year old bimbos fluttering their lashes and shaking their stuff! What kind of positive message does this send to these kids? I kept thinking of Lil' M. I was not digging how this one toddler (3 years old) got some highlights up into her baby hair. What the heck?

2) Office Space: LOVE IT! For the thousand time ;). I watched it like it was the first time every time. Sad, but it's spot on w/various office personalities. My fav line has always been from the "Michael Bolton" name bit. ;)

Anyways, here's my new live friend:

Overcast in Daygo

Man, my window view this morning sure matches my mood (gloomy). It's overcast right now. At one point, I was ready to take a afternoon nap and saw the pretty clouds outside my window made me feel calmer.

I'm not feeling too cheery this morning. I had to take another Nifedipine pill last night and my muscles are achy. We'll see where the day takes me. I hope the day passes by fast today.

Sweet Visit

MAD visited me today and brought me Baskin Robbins coconut ice cream with some yummy nuts to enjoy with her! Loved it ;). Ice cream lover right here. I appreciated the company and talking about non-depressing stuff made it fun. Thanks for coming out. Made my day ;). Hope to see you again!

Feeling Like Myself Again

I confirmed that I was able to have shower privileges. Once my IV was changed out yesterday (they switch arms every 4 days). I took my first shower since I was admitted. I know-how can I go a week without showering etc? I'm not dirty/oily/sweaty and didn't care. Then, I saw myself in mirror and felt that my stringy curls (at one point had some breakfast syrup stuck on it!) and mumu gown look was getting old. I think I started to smell sweaty. Sorry TMI, but I really didn't care if I wasn't gonna see anyone but my family. Hmm almost reminds me of how I felt when I first had Lil M! I did shower regularly though b/c I was nursing ;).

So-I was disconnected from my BFFs and got my IV "capped" and my arm taped up like crazy. First time showering and washing hair w/just one arm! First time sitting down in the chair inside the stall, too. The warm shower revived me.

I felt less groggy and changed out into my regular/comfy/trusty t-shirt and pj pants. I feel like me and not some deranged patient.

Same night, nurse ended up giving me my first Nifedipine pill. I guess in addition to me being an irritable gal, so was my lovely uterus! During my routine monitoring session, I had like 6 contractions! My uterus was "irritable". So this does what the Mag. does, too.

Man from someone who has always feared needles/disliked medicines, I've sure had to face my fears recently! Like I said, everyday is a new day.

Sneak Peek into Senior Life?

Yesterday, I was granted "wheelchair access" to get out of my room and join the weekly hospital Arts & Healing class. This week's class was on making greeting cards. I looked forward to getting out of my room and seeing people (not necessary talk but just see).

So there were 6 of us prego ladies in same pre-term situation. I was wheeled out to the lobby area of same floor. We were sat in nice leather recliners w/a craft tray and the volunteers passed out the paper/craft supplies as needed. Some of us were hooked up to our BFFs (IV/Mag) machine.

There wasn't any real direction for what to do but seemed like the prego ladies were into it. At first, I thought it was lame and just started slapping things together just to get going. My theme was going to be a lavender/green"welcome baby card" to match nursery theme colors. Once I got into it, I was actually having fun. I felt awkward at first b/c I was feeling hot and the ladies around me were ESL or just not talking.

Eventually, I started to chat w/the gal next to me. Sweet lady-so we were both hopeful to see each other again and at these meet ups next time. I had fun. I was the only one wearing mumu gown lol. The next time I go to this, I'll be dressed normally.

I hope I can go to Sunday's needlework class! So is this what a life of a senior living in a old folk home would be like?Not sure how to take it.

You like?

Temporary Home

Week 27
Sigh. I made it to week 27 at hospital. I'm getting used to the daily routine here. It's nice to see the next day. The faster the days go by (even if I'm missing the summer), the longer I've been pregnant. Funny how my day's actually pretty full being in the hospital:

1) Change of IV bag. (2-3 times/day)
2) Change of Magnesium Sulfate bag (2-3 times/day)
3) Blood Pressure checks
4) Temperature checks
5) Baby heart rate & contraction machine monitoring (every 6 hrs).
6) Daily visits by doctors.
7) Random hospital staff visits (social worker/physical therapist)
8) Emails
9) Returning texts
10) Phone calls
11) Read book
12) TV (olympics etc)
13) Bed exercises

I think it's time for me to get out of my beautiful huge mumu of a hospital gown today...Once I get my IV change today.

Early Maternity Leave

Week 27
7/20/12
My past off Friday @ week 26 I had two doctor appointments for regular checkup and the follow-up ultrasound (US) to my "generous" amount of amniotic fluid visits. The checkup went normal as it could be, but my Dr. didn't say much when I asked what happens if I am high in fluids and possibly have per-term labor? I guess he didn't want to discuss further until I get results from ultrasound. Of course sits uneasy w/me especially when I like to prepre for the worst.
So I did a repeat US and was able to get 7 more great detailed pix of Unit #2! Even got her yawning, feet, and girl bits confirmed! Bad news is from the vaginal US, my cervix was also measuring too short for 26 weeks. The tech was calm and told me to take it easy and I'll get a call from office. So, I'm thinking I'll get a routine follow up call next Monday since it was almost COB. Nopes, I miss the call at 4ish while I was running errands.
The VM was from my Dr.'s nurse saying to call them back. Which you know how much I love phone tag and not leaving me detailed messages. So, I made a point to call Dr. following Monday. By Monday, the nurse called and told me scary news. I needed to go see the High Risk Pregnancy Specialist Tuesday since my cervix was too short and the scare of going into early labor. She even said the words "You need to go to the hospital!" So, here I am bawling outside the umbrella seating area of work telling Big M the news. He has a great way of comforting me and it helped me think more rationally.
Overall, this is what occurred following this day:
7/23/12--Tues:
1) 1 hr glucose test and passed again! :)
2) Saw my OBGYN for confirmation of cervix. I need to get treated ASAP for preventing pre-term labor. Told to home and do bed rest until I see Specialist.
3)Did a Fetal Fibronectin (FFN) test and came back negative! Good b/c it has a 95% chance of me not delivering within 2 weeks.
7/24/12--Weds:
1) Saw the Specialist for confirmation of short cervix and that I was already 1 cm dilated!
2) Immediately admitted to Triage (Mary Birch Women's Hospital).
3) Confirmed I was having too many contractions at this state.
4) Admitted to room and got Magnesium Sulfate IV'ed to me to slow down contractions. It's a muscle relaxer. The more contractions I have, the more dilated I'll be. You don't want six contractions in one hour.
5) Injected two dosages of steroids for helping baby lungs develop faster IF baby was born early.
7/26/12--Thurs:
1)Nurses monitored baby and contractions. Magnesium was working as planned. Specialist stopped by and said I needed to stay another 11 days (to reach to 28 weeks).
2) Seems like I'm OK so far.
7/27/12--Friday:
1)Specialist recommends me staying until I reach 28 weeks and then if I've stabilize, I can go home and take Magnesium pills and be on bed rest (I've officially started my disability leave Tuesday). Eventually, they'll wean me off the Magnesium. We strive for 3x weeks for this baby!
2)Big M goes home to take care of Lil M and house. First night I'm at hospital alone. It was fine/got to FaceTime with Big M and Lil M. I miss her so much. She knows I'm not feeling well and is at doctor's and I'll be home soon. I had to hold back tears when I spoke to her.
3)Barely watched London Olympics 2012 Opening which seemed to take forever to start?
4)I got my first full sleep.
7/28/12--Saturday: Getting used to this place. Baby keeps running away every time she gets monitored. Evidentally, getting a full bladder during monitoring give me contractions. The belts I'm wearing are so tight that it always makes my bladder full.
For now things are stable. It's gonna be day to day for me. In the end, I'll be prob on leave for more than 3 months (like possibly 6 including this part). That's hoping baby hangs tight until full term. Pray for me. I'm trying to stay positive and not go stir crazy /emotional everyday I'm here. I can't wait to see Lil M tonight for dinner. I guess this is a sign for me to focus less on petty stuff and focus in my baby and me more even more so. I'm scared, but I put faith in the doctors for catching me in this state. This is my view for entertainment for another 2 weeks:

Our 1st Niece & Nursery

A Whole Lotta Stuff (July 4th Weekend Activities)
Backlog on posting something ever since the long July 4th weekend! I was 23 weeks pregnanat that holiday week. As of 7/6/12, our first niece was born! My SIL didn't have a short labor at all. She was induced on 7/4/12 at 10 (ish) PM and didn't have the baby come out until 7/6/12 around 5 (ish) AM. She's so precious and I love that infant smell!!! The whole trip (3xs) to there made me realize what Big M and I will be looking forward to in a few months (3+) and made me a little anxious. It was nice to see the same hospital I gave birth to Lil' M and the same place I'll have Unit #2. Seems like this hospital is going to be our family birthing hospital lol. Mary Birch Women's Hospital is the best. I specifically changed my insurance when I started the company in the first year knowing that I'd start a family within the 5 years to be at this hospital.

That weekend I actually got a chance to start buying nursery decor items and Big M finished painting the room, too! It's beautiful-a lavendar colored room that's not too bright or too light.

We're going to do Shakespeare's "A Midsummer's Night Dream" theme. We'll have the fairies, enchanted forest, and flowers for this room. I'm enjoying it, but sometimes have "decorator's block" because I want to include too much. As my hubby says, "Simple is best". I agree. So, I have to return a few things because it'll get too busy in that room.

Firsts

Week 21
Ultrasound Results
Last week I received a call from my OBGYN in which I was playing phone tag for 2 days! Of course, they don't like to give me detailed messages of what the issue may be. I of course was panicky and couldn't relax while I was packing for our first Disneyland trip with Lil' M. The day before we went (Friday), the office called and told me that my ultrasound showed that I had a "generous" amount of amniotic fluid. GREAT! What it could mean is the baby will feel too tight in there and go into pre-term labor. Yay! No. Evidently, I didn't do anything wrong and I'm not sure if there's anything to "cure" this. In 5 weeks, I'll be going to do another scan to confirm. I pray I'm OK!!! Of course I end up googling and trying to find good news about this possible condition and I find negative things. I stopped looking. I can't stress myself more. So that's that. The day before our big trip and I have that over my head :(.

Disneyland Family Trip
The hotel we stayed at was at the Howard Johnson in Anaheim (.2 miles from Disneyland)and it was pretty worth it. The kid's pool area was exactly how they described it. Though toddler's could really only play in 2 1/2 areas:
1. Toddler Pool (1 ft tall): Which was closed off with yellow CAUTION tape. It was thought that there was probably a "floater" before. Ew.

2. 13 Water Fountains: Lil' M loved it. It's the kind where you can step on the fountains from the ground and it shoots up at another fountain.

2.5. Toddler Water Slide: For little ones, I suggest if you can fit, the parent rides with the kid. I had Lil' M sit on my lap and rode it (very short ride so I was OK). At the end of the slide, a big gush of water hit our faces and Lil' M didn't like it and that was the end of it. Later in the day, she tells me "I like waterslides."

Free parking at the HOJO was nice; we were able to walk back and forth to Disneyland in 10 minutes. Restaurants are also next door! We enjoyed Millie's Restaurant and McDonalds. At first, Lil' M was indifferent when we got into the park, however, after seeing the castle and going on the first Dumbo Ride, Lil' M got excited and knew where she was. She LOVED Disneyland. She got her first pair Micky Ears w/her name on it and even sported it. She enjoyed Small World (got her a music box from there). I think what really made her day was getting to meet and take photos with Mulan, Little Mermaid, and Tiana. She left them with a smile and in awwe ("Did this really happened" expression). Actually, she picked out her first Disney memorbillia-Pascal from Tangled. She carried it around and slept with it for the whole trip.

20 Week Ultrasound - Baby Gender Determined

Week 20
Big M and Lil' M and I went to my 20 weeks ultrasound where we get to see more vivid images of our Unit #2 AND find out the sex of the baby! Turns out we are going to have another baby girl! I guess my instincts were wrong? I thought it was going to be a boy. We are very happy but still in shock to know that we wil be blessed with another little lady in our lives :). Well, we have Lil' M stuff still so we are taken care there. We definitely know what to expect with another girl. That was the first highlight of our Wednesday. Lil' M now knows what to call the baby "sister". I can now know who I'm talking to. Hehe.

Tomorrow, I'm taking Lil' M to her first hair salon. It's a salon for focused for kids (has toys/tv/kiddie seats). I've been cutting her hair since she's 6 months..(maybe earlier!). I think it's time for her to get a professional cut and I'll just try to keep up with it since I'll have a baseline to work with. Actually, I just rather have someone deal with a wiggly kid and have the mess be left on their floors! :) She lets me cut her hair, but she tends to keep looking down at whatever I gave her to distract her. Then, she's covered with hair all over as I basically let her sit half naked.

Sat-Monday is our first real family vacation with just us 3! First pool and Disneyland time for Lil' M before Unit #2 is born. This'll be her early birthday present from us as I'm due in October! I'm looking forward to our trip and seeing her so happy. She's been asking to go to Disneyland for months.

Babies Babies Babies!

Week 20
We just attended my SIL's 1st baby shower last Saturday and it went pretty well. She is definitely well-loved by her family, friends, and co-workers. Their nusery is evidently 'The Muppets'! Very unique and non-cliche. Which I'm a big big fan of (the non-cliche part). I think people liked the games that I selected (Don't say Baby, Dirty Diapers, and Candy Bar Game). I just didn't want to be too cheesy because I know they can be. Lil' M had fun, too. She ate well and even made a friend that was about her age (6 months older), but nevertheless they understood each other verbally, held hands, and hugged many times. So cute! Hope we see her again at the next function :).

The pregnancy's going well. Baby is moving! I guess after the nurse told me about how you can feel the 2nd one earlier, I immediatley was able to identify it. Feels like inner massage chair kneeding (sp) you. Or butterfiles...or a heartbeat. I dreamt that I saw the baby move and stick out a limb. That'd be cool if it happened this time. I didn't see that with Lil' M. Big M talks to Unit 2 daily. He keeps calling Unit 2 "Dragon Baby". I keep thinking of Mooshoo (sp) from Mulan.

The only weird thing that's happened was on Monday night, I was sleeping on my side and I think because I was facing the floor (rather than the wall) and got up to upruptly,I got a bad dizzy spell. Everything was spinning and I had lost my equilibrium. I almost fell when I was walking to the bathroom. I tried to sleep it off until the the next morning. It didn't go away come the next morning. I ended up throwing up (water) b/c I was so dizzy. It felt good actually. But, I just came into work later so I can lay down some more and sleep it off. I was a little wobbly, but was fine. I am back to normal again. I just have to down more water. Maybe it's hormones and lack of water that did it to me?

On an exciting note, we'll be finding out the sex of the baby tomorrow June 6, 2012. So excited! I have no idea what it's going to be. The meat, spicy, and food loving desires I have would traditionally point me to a boy. But that's all entertainment of course. I keep staring at my belly to see how high or low it sits. Or how pointy or round it is. Can't really tell. I think it sits high. I think I'm starting to waddle already! Stay tuned for the news tomorrow.

Memorial Weekend

Week 18/19
Hope you all had a great Memorial weekend! Our weekend started out pretty full. Friday (my off Friday) was a day of OBGYN appointments and errands to run with Lil' M. Apparently, I was already 18 weeks last Friday! My due date they say is 10/24 (for now) until the next ultrasound. It'll be confirmed. I don't want it to be a day before Lil' M's birthday. I want the two kids to have sense of their own individual birthdays (not shared). If I can help it, we'll have 2 separate birthday parties. I guess we'll see when that time comes. Anyways, this week I'll be 19 weeks already! I'm totally popping out. The nurse asked if I can feel anything yet. I was shocked. I thought it was too early. However, I guess with the second baby, we may be able to feel it earlier. I thought I felt little flutters, but thought it was the uterus expanding or indigestion (lol). Big M was talking to Unit #2 and apparently he said he felt it kick his ear. Lil' M used to do that alot, too! This week is short, but feels long already. Hopefully this week won't be as stressful.

This Saturday's my SIL's first baby shower! I get to partake in the game coordination. I hope people will like the games I pick. I hope the happy parents-to-be will love Big M's masterpiece diaper cake! He did such a great job; I think he enjoyed this art project (which he isn't really into arts & crafts)! I'll post picture of it when it's done. It's so easy to spoil children-I couldn't help buying more stuff for their baby shower gifts.

Four Day Holiday Weekend

Week 17
My four day holiday is about to begins now! Since I work on a 9/80 schedule, we get this Friday off and with the Memorial Holiday coming up this Monday-a LONG weekend it is for me! Yay and nay. We're not going anywhere special so it's just another typical weekend where we can address even more chores we lack doing. :) I look forward to it, but not really in a way. It's actually less work to be at work than be at home honestly. So many areas of the house and projects I seem to never be able to get frustrates me. Plus, I can't dedicate a whole day just to play with Lil' M. Guilt! Tomorrow is my next OBGYN appointment. Hopefully, everything's OK. Well, wherever and whatever you do for this upcoming holiday, make it a safe one!

Mother's Day Holiday

Week 16
Happy belated Mama's Day to fellow mothers out there! People ask me "What did you get for Mother's day?" My response "Less whining from Lil' M" :). I really don't expect anything for this day as it's just another commercialized day. I got a card and that's all it counts and spend time with each other. We went to my in-laws to celebrate my nanay and SIL's Mother's Day. I did, however, tell Big M to just count my recent boudoir shots as my gift as it cost some. I jokingly said to him "Actually, thanks for doing the poopy diapers...that's good enough for me!". I think that should really be the gift for Mother's/Father's Day-to have you significant other help you do yucky duties on your day. Ha!

Well, we took my first Week 15 photoshoot of my newly-growing belly. It's getting bigger, but apparently I still "don't look like it". You know-this is my pet peeve...whatever you do, DON'T tell other prego ladies this:

Bad Comment #1
What ignorant Commentor says: "Oh, you're so small...you don't even look pregnant!"

What prego lady hears:"What-so I either look like I'm just getting regular chubby (not prego chubby)...or I'm not eating enough to nourish my alien baby?"

Bad Comment #2
What ignorant Commentor says: "Oh, your belly's so big!"

What prego lady hears: "Thanks-so I'm totally overeating and I *DO* look as big as I feel!"

Case in point, please just don't comment about our size..AT ALL! What good does those comments do for us?

Ok, ending it with a good note-I think sleeping on my side that I had sciatic pains and taking brief walks daily as made the pains go away!!! Or the baby has shifted. It was just funny how I'd get pains even if the baby is not exactly big at this time. According to BabyCenter, my Unit 2 is the size of avocado. One of my favorite fruit. :)

Worries

Week 15 (2nd Trimester)
Well, I got my results back (last week at my Dr's appointment) from the lab regarding the 3 hour Glucose Test and it came back with flying colors!!! I was so anxious because I hadn't hear anything from them ever since I took the test. Usually, Sharp is really good at contacting you ASAP (like 1-2 days) if tests come back abnormal. I was too scared to check my online lab results to see so I opted to wait for my appointment to hear the news. I did check out the lab results later and find that my numbers were quite low (away from the GD diagnosis). OK-so I was at 13 weeks then. They'll test me again later on (probably the standard 28 weeks) and monitor the urine samples every appointment? I'm hoping that the GD won't creep up on me later. If so-let's hope it creeps up like just when I'm almost done! I'll still manage my diet as if I have GD just to be on the safe side. Actually, I was doing that ever after pregnancy with Lil' M.


Unit 2 is totally showing up a little more. The tummy is more pronounced and it sits up high.
Just realized, I need to start taking shots of the tummy! There's all these entertaining elements to this pregnancy as far as what sex it'll be. I LOVE spicy foods and MEAT. So opposite of the first pregnancy. So-of course signs point to that it's a boy :). We'll see. June 6 we'll find out! I can't wait. It'll make this baby a little more real for me and give me more connection to it. We'll solidify on a name (and we do have one for each sex...) and start preparing for the nursery a little more. I don't want to scramble at the last minute like we did with Lil' M. I was petrified when she came early- the first thing I said to Big M was "I'm not ready! I don't have the nursery done yet...the furniture hasn't arrived for her yet!". No no--it's not going to go down that way this time. ;) Not if we can help it. Plus, I'll be able to give away the girl clothes that I don't want (from Lil M's newborn/baby days). I don't want to accumulate anymore old clothes. I'll only keep a few for keepsake. BUT I'm not going to go crazy and keep EVERYTHING just in the slight hope I pass it on to my kids. First time parents want to pick out their own kids clothes (IMOH). Unless it's like a religious/family heirloom piece?

Pre-Maternity Fashion

Week 12
I haven't really "popped" yet. Though I call it the "gassy/bloated" phase. I look prego when I'm full and normal when I'm not. I keep getting myself convinced that I'm just bloated because true my belly doesn't look quite flat on the top, it kinda makes a outward slope. I can't recall how I looked like last time with Lil M. All I know is my tummy sure doesn't look the same because some of my fitted tops don't look as nice on me. I look like I ate too much. Sometimes I look OK, but then I'll look like I got a lil' beer belly (more than usual) on me. That's tough to hide at work! I refuse to buy maternity clothes because what will I do with them afterwards? Yeah, overall the maternity clothes nowadays look stylish but the size of it won't look right after I go back to my pre-pregnancy size. Luckily, I'm petite and the clothes that I could wear and buy are a bit flowy and regular size that I can wear during pregnancy and afterwards. Which is what I did last time. Dresses/leggings/flowy tops here I come (BACK)!!!

What NOT to Say

Hope your weekends were good. Ours were pretty full. Dedicated some family time out to the mall and to my favorite neighborhood Toy store (Thomas Store as I call it) for Lil' M. She can literally spend hours there and be very well behaved. She loves their Thomas the Train sets that are set up on the matching tables. The store is very accomodating in that it's meant for kids to play with the toys. I feel bad that parents (like me) come in to their store just to "browse" and let our  kiddies play with their toys but never buy anything. I don't know how they stay in business as their toys are highly marked up. In anycase, I'm grateful to have it available.


That was the weekend, and we are now into the work week. Joy!!! <Input Sarcasm here>. So, I don't think I'm really "showing", but when I am full, it seems like the belly pokes out a bit more. I've had instances where I think I'm suspected of being prego. Once, I was merely rubbing my tummy b/c I was so full from lunch and my GF seriously looked me up and down when I did it!

Bourdoir & a Bunny?

Photo Session (Saturday)

*Yaaawn*.  Today called for a nice decaf Starbucks iced Americano beverage for this tired mama.  The weekend was full and pretty nice. I finally got a chance to go get some boudoir photos done on Saturday down in SD.  I enjoyed getting my face did and becoming a lil' model.  Nothing too risque-I tried to keep it classy and simple.  I think the photos will come out nice-it's just I didn't care for the photographer herself. She was a bit on the controlling side as far as the pre-session goes. For instance, being a bit condescending to me regarding the use of my GPS directions to get to her studio versus her instructions she sent.  I told her "Why does it matter how I get there as long as I get there?". I was running like 5 minutes late and she called right away. I guess she took that as "Oh she's lost b/c she didn't follow my exact directions". Whatever. Then, she had to mention about my small chest and white legs. NICE. Now, I really feel comfortable to do some photos with you lady. Anyhow, in the end, I think the session itself went fine. I hope she's good at her craft. If not, I'm so gonna burn her via my trusty vent buddy named "Yelp". ;) She needs an attitude check!  Other than that afternoon, Big M and I went to a All-You-Can-Eat Korean BBQ joint in Convoy for dinner. Boy were we stuffed! Mmmm...I hope Unit 2 appreciated the Short Ribs. It's like crack.

Easter (Sunday)

Big M and I dropped off Lil' M off to her Nanay's house for the weekend so that she could make it to Easter Sunday Church. We knew it'd be hard for us 'rents to make it on time Sunday. Plus, that gives Nanay more time to spend with her grandaughter. Nanay did a little Easter Egg Hunt for Lil' M in her front yard. So cute, she got all of it. Nanay didn't put candy it it, but actual coins! She had like 16 eggs each filled with .50! That's how Asians be doing it yo ;). Forget the cavity-give us some money! She had fun. We got to chow down with Royal Mandarin's Chinese food from my SIL "M" and BIL "M". We made sure Lil' M got to take some photos with her Easter bunny that my boss gave her when she was born. This bunny only comes out on Easters. Then, is put away. It's so white that Lil' M would make it yellow. Plus, she already has tons of stuffed animals. I wanted to recreate a photo with the bunny every year with Lil' M sitting in the same position. I want to compare with how much she changes yearly. I'm not sure when we'll stop. Maybe when she's 5 or 10 or 18 years old? We'll stop when she wants to I guess. I'll do the same with Unit 2.

Babies Galore

Turns out my lab work came in fine. They just had some questions they needed me to confirm.  I just scheduled an appointment for our 21 week ultrasound for June 6, 2012. We'll find out the sex of the baby and hopefully it's still just ONE baby. Since I have twins in my family (aunts and sisters), our chances of having twins is high. I just don't think I can handle that physically. Well, whatever the man upstairs blesses us with is what we'll take :). Better than no baby.


So, my GF "J" from high school just had her baby #2 on April Fools Day! Poor thing didn't have a great birthing experience, but in the end mother and baby boy are healthy and doing good. My GF "J" had a 8 lb baby! What a trooper to push an 8 pounder out. I'm happy for them. Their life will be full of more laughter. Now, it's our other GF "K's" turn to have her baby #2. She's pretty close and I'm waiting to hear the good news when it happens. Everyone's kids will be pretty much close to age. I hope they become close friends one day. It's kinda tough when we're all in different cities. I hope "K" best of luck.


Just got a call from "Big M" that "Lil' M" is sitting on the potty diaperless! Of course watching one of her favorite YouTube shows as an incentive. We hope to reintroduce the potty training sessions again with our 2 year old. She totally has the concept and hates being wet, so it's more of getting herself out of her comfort zone. We promised her M&Ms if she goes "pee pee in the potty". Wow, that's our life now...highlight if the lil' lady does her business in a pink princess potty. Life will definitely change once we get our Unit 2 in our lives. We're definitely not bored at this moment of our lives.

Jumping Mexican Bean

On March 30, 2012, I took Lil' M with me to my first OBGYN appointment. I found out I was 9 weeks along and the baby has a heartbeat. I'm due 10/30/2012! I had two ultrasounds done that confirmed that there was only ONE baby in there! We'll really find out for sure in the 19 week ultrasound I'm sure. I don't think I'm carrying twins because I haven't ate that much and not really big. The highlight was having that first picture of our Unit 2! The machine was much better this time around compared to Lil' M's-I can actually make out the shape of our lil' bean. It was so active that it was jumping up and down! Awwee...it's like a jumping Mexican Bean..rather Filipino Bean :P. I'm not sure if Lil' M even saw the ultrasound itself, but she was definitely interested in the photo afterwards. She even asks to see it on her own at home.

Lil M' did a fantastic job going with me. She followed my directions and sat nicely in the doctor's office and even asked if I was OK. She's such a sweet little girl (when she wants to lol). She even answered the nurse's questions to me...everytime I said "No" to common questions, she'd say "No thanks". She even sat with me when I got my blood drawn. I think it was beneficial for her to see me not in a panicked state at the doctor's and she was having fun there. She even asked to go play at the Pediatrics playhouse afterwards. Can't believe she remembered!


I have to go back for the dreaded glucose screening. I'm worried even though it's not going to be a new concept. I just pray that for some miracle I don't get it this time as I think I have been eating MUCH better this time around. I'm pretty carb-conscience and have stayed thin after I had Lil' M. I'm on pins and needles right now waiting for a call back from the office because I missed a call and the VM only said "call us back". Why couldn't they have left a more detailed message. Ugh.


Well, now that it's confirmed there is a Unit 2, we'll get together with our families and tell the news all at once just like we did with Lil' M.  I'm nervous with this one as I was with Lil' M.

Cravings or Excuses?

This pregancy has been slightly different from the last. I didn't care for hearty meals as I got really full and gassy. I didn't like thick or oily meat...I hated pancit and white rice. So weird. Now, I like everything and want to eat all the time. I'm just being very careful how much carbs I intake though. OK-so I think normally, I have cravings of food as a non-prego person. However, this time around, I'm not sure if its will power because I have definite interest in particular foods AND must have it! Seems this time around, I'm giving in to the excuse I give many prego ladies I see--excuse to eat whatever they want and give in to the cravings. I somewhat have will power, but when it comes to meat...I'll try to obtain it or it'll drive me nuts :D.


Tell me if this a craving or an excuse to eat whatevers-two nights ago, just before I went to bed, the last thought on my mind was "Sourdough Jack-I'd like me some Sourdough jack" as I trail off into dreamland. In the AM, I wake up and thinking the same thing! My tummy agreed. So of course, later that evening for dinner, I told my hubby (Big M) "I don't know what you want for dinner, but I'm gonna get me a Sourdough Jack at Jack in the Crack". And I did! It was so freaking delicious.