Baby Shower Photos

35 Weeks: Happy Holidays!

We want to wish all of our friends and family a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah, and wonderful New Year!

Almost 34 Weeks

33 Weeks: Livin' Large

Oh, my my. I am quite the pregnant person. In the last week, I've heard many comments confirming this fact. "You're due February 1st? Because you're really big already" is my personal favorite.

As Juno so adequately put it "the only thing in your stomach is taco bell" so everyone needs to step off - I'm creating a miracle and I need some space to work.



Anyway, these fun pictures are from a holiday dinner with some friends at Diane and John's place on Sunday. It was a really good time and Ed and John had fun plotting ways to send me into early labor in advance of January 1st so we could secure a tax break for the year.



Of course, Diane then made me promise to do everything I can to avoid giving birth early since they will be traveling at Christmas and in the early part of January. LOL

32 Weeks: Prep for Childbirth

From 10a - 5p on Saturday, ET and I were at Prep for Childbirth. We arrived starry-eyed and full of wonder (well full of lattes, anyway) and left tired and grumpy. He was annoyed at the ineptitude of our instructor. I was annoyed at the ineptitude of our fellow classmates. So, we badmouthed all of them all the way home. Like "this little piggy" but with hormones.

Seriously, we did learn a lot and I think it was a good class to attend and I'm glad we went... and I'm equally glad that it's over.

My Review of Back & Belly Contoured Body Pillow

Originally submitted at Toys R Us

Back & Belly's inner contours are designed to follow the natural curved shape of your body. With it's clever design there is no need to reposition during the night, simply turn from side to side. Provides equal support for back and tummy. Removable, washable cover.

Back N' Belly Contoured Body Pillow

I may not kill my husband...

By HJK from Philadelphia, PA on 12/5/2008

 

5out of 5

Pros: Soft, Comfortable, Strong Seams, Good Support

Best Uses: Prenatal, Bedroom

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

...because I am well-rested!! This pillow rocks the house. I was unable to sleep comfortably on my side without getting a bad crick in my neck and shoulder. I kept waking up and could never find a comfortable spot, until this pillow! I am 32 weeks pregnant now and feeling really uncomfortable. But, this pillow understands my needs.

Others commented that there is no room for husbands in bed with them when using this. That's true. But, mine left for the couch back in the second trimester when the first body pillow showed up. I miss him. It's a good thing I have this pillow to keep my company.

(legalese)

31 Weeks: Happy Thanksgiving and NO Contractions

Happy Thanksgiving to all! The #1 thing that we're thankful for this year is that everything (knock wood) continues to go well with my pregnancy and that at every appointment, the doctor says how well our little one is doing. She's kicking up a storm, she's super strong, she's amazing.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with our friends Diane and John and company and have enjoyed a relaxing long weekend together.

I have to relay a funny conversation from last night, though. Last week, the doctor asked if I have experienced any Braxton-Hicks contractions and explained that I would feel a tightening across my abdomen (but no pain) and that my belly would feel hard all over. Last night, I think I *may* have had two of these and came in to the living room to keep Papa Bear in the loop. Hilarity ensued:

H: "I think I may have just had some Braxton-Hicks."
E: "No, you DIDN'T, Girl! Sit down. You need to relax."
H: "I am relaxed."
E: "You need to relax more!"
H: "Honey, Braxton-Hicks contractions aren't anything to worry about at all. They don't bring on labor and they don't even hurt."
E: "YOU ARE NOT HAVING ANY CONTRACTIONS OF ANY KIND!"

I can't wait to see the audience reaction when we take this act on the road... to say, the hospital, in a couple of months. LOL

30 Weeks: What an amazing baby shower!!

What a wonderful weekend!! Thank you to everyone who made my shower such a terrific experience - I can't wait to post some pictures!!

Today, it was all capped off when Grams got to hear Chloe's heartbeat at the doctor's office.

29 Weeks: I can't remember what my feet look like

This weekend, my little Phi Sig legacy and I went to my alumnae chapter's Founders' Day. It was a beautiful event and a good time was had by all. At some point, though, I caught my profile in a full length mirror and didn't recognize myself! It's all for the little one, but still caught me off guard. Earlier in the weekend, I realized that I can't remember the last time I could look down and see my feet. LOL

In any case, the event raised lots of money for the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation, brought collegiates together from 6 chapters, hosted a bunch of alumnae, and featured Foundation Executive Director, Nancy "Nash" Hay (below left). It was a terrific day.

28 Weeks: Good Health Update

I was at my OB appointment this morning and I'm pleased to report that all is well (knock wood). I passed that awful glucose test (!) and my blood pressure and weight are both on target. We listened to the baby's heart and the heartbeat was very strong and steady... and when the doctor was trying to get the heartbeat monitor in the right spot, baby girl kicked her! It was very funny.

27 Weeks: The Dental Battle Continues and an OBAMA Victory!

I have to tell you that yesterday was a really weird day. First, I'm thrilled that we have an Obama victory... and that Liddy Dole lost... but, I'm really dismayed that the social ballots all went down. I simply don't understand the notion of denying rights to others and while the thrill of Obama's historical win is really amazing, part of me feels really disappointed in the country.

I look at the gay marriage issue and simply don't get why someone would feel that their own marriage is cheapened by gay people they don't know having the same marriage license. If people really feel that way, maybe it's time for couples counseling and they can just leave the gays out of it. Part of me also looks at it through the lens of my marriage. If Ed and I lived, met, and fell in love 50 or 60 years ago, we'd be allowed to get married, but we would also live in fear that ignorant people so assured of their own destiny in heaven would find it appropriate to physically attack us.

But, I'm spinning off topic. Obama has done what no one thought he could do 2 years ago and I'm absolutely thrilled. I really believe that he is the best leader for our country and an incredible role model for our little one.

I had a great time watching some early returns with the crew from Shorr, Johnson, Magnus (my old firm). Although I don't miss the field as a career, it was great to catch up with so many friends and colleagues and to live in their world for an evening.

Yesterday was a bit challenging, though, because I had my next round of oral surgery. Many of you know that I was the victim of a car accident last December when a driver hit me as I was crossing the street (in the crosswalk, with the light). Knock wood, but I was largely fine - the main damages were a destroyed tooth and a chipped one. The bad tooth was removed in April in a horrific, three-hour ordeal (in which I was wide awake and crying). Thankfully, yesterday was not nearly as bad. It was about an hour, but it was still invasive and still difficult (especially since I can't take pain meds stronger than Tylenol). However, during the procedure, all of a sudden, I became very scared for no real reason. It was an irrational burst of panic and I felt alone and petrified and didn't know if I could withstand it. There was no reason for this as I wasn't in pain and I got to thinking how when I'm in labor, Ed and Diane will be there to help me or hold my hand or talk to me. But, in yesterday's situation, everyone in the room was using both hands to work. Plus, I was so wrapped in with all the drapings that I couldn't have reached a hand out to someone anyway. When I thought that I really couldn't take it any more, I felt a soft kick.

Believe me, it wasn't the kick of which she's capable. This little girl is getting really strong and can wallop me if she wants to do so. It was gentle and she repeated it throughout the surgery and it was more than enough to help me calm down and not feel so alone. I was so thankful that she was with me and for the first time, felt like she was just as capable at caring for me as I am for her.

GO PHILLIES - Parade Down Broad Street!

Well, I got really good at yelling "don't elbow the pregnant woman!" LOL. Broad Street was mayhem, I could see very little, and then my camera died. But, I did get a few images and I'll be able to tell the little one that she was there. I hope we don't have to wait another 28 years for the next parade! GO PHILS!

Pregnancy Dreams are Weird

Last night, I dreamt that the baby was born in baby-size, but she was born talking and Ed and I didn't know what to do. It was the demands of a toddler in a sweet, tiny baby. She was totally winning control of the household. She said she wanted a new doll and I said, "We'll see..." and she said "What does THAT mean?! When am I getting my doll?!"

Then, Sister Anne (an old friend from pottery who, yes, is a nun) tried to kidnap her. Chloe said "bye, Mommy" and I called the police who said "Ma'am, I don't know if you're aware, but there are thousands of Phillies fans crowded onto Broad Street right now, so we're kind of busy."

Philadelphia Phillies - World Champions 2008!!!!!!!!!

On behalf of our "future fan," Ed and I want to congratulate the Phillies on their World Series victory! We believed!!!!

26 Weeks: Glucose Test

You know, I get that the 13 vials of blood I have had to give to date (yes, I am counting) is fair since I get to feel the baby grow and kick and change and Ed doesn't. So, ok, I have to let the vampires loose on me from time to time while he doesn't have to endure any of that.

But, I'm drawing a line in the sand. He's going to get the baby at the end, too. So, he should have to drink this disgusting stuff, too. I call "no fair."

25 Weeks: Breast Cancer 3-Day 2008 is Over

Wow - another 3-Day is now over - it's hard to believe how fast the weekend went. For the first time, Mel and I were able to participate on the event together, which was a real treat. She inspired me to first get involved 3 years ago, so it was very special to share this time together. Another first: this was a new experience for both of us on the volunteer crew. We had a terrific time with an awesome group of volunteers on the Camp Services crew.



This team worked tirelessly all weekend long to ensure a great experience for the walkers when they were in camp. And how did I fare being 6 months pregnant? Well, I will say that working 14+ hour days followed by tent-camping in 30 degree weather was probably not my best career move. However, our team was a terrific source of support and really made sure I didn't over do it. Much thanks to Tim, our leader, and to all of the wonderful people on Camp Services. Everyone made a point to wish me a Happy Birthday on Saturday, surprising me in a sing a long after lunch. And for the first time, Ed was able to come and see the 3-Day Camp. He visited with me on my break on Saturday and really enjoyed the opportunity to experience the mini-city that is our camp... and the chance to wish me a Happy Birthday. You've all made this a weekend worth remembering!!!

24 Weeks: Stronger, Better, Faster

She's definitely getting bigger. I can feel how she's taking up more room in my stomach and her kicks have gotten much stronger (but still not painful). What IS painful is when she does this whole body stretch thing that forces her head (I'm assuming) right under my right rib cage and then stays there for a few minutes (often the walk to work) or in the case of last Friday, all day long.

It's quite embarrassing to be caught whispering to yourself in the hallway: "Please move your head for Mommy."

Maybe Ed is right that she doesn't have enough room in there! LOL

I also can't believe that it's the 24th week! Just three more months until she arrives? I can't believe it.



PS. Thanks to Barb for loaning me her breast pump! Now, I just have to take the next three months to convince myself not to be scared to use this contraption. :)

More Thank Yous!

Special thank yous to two amazing colleagues, Stacen and Janet, for giving us two fabulous, like-new items:

A jogger stroller from Stacen...

...And a swing from Janet!

Your babies enjoyed and now ours will, too! Many thanks!

As promised!

Isn't this set adorable?!

Many thanks, Barbara!!!

23 Weeks: "You Look Like You'll Have That Baby Any Day Now"

Yes, someone actually said that to me. A stranger. In a professional setting. After a very long day. I took it in stride and then repeated it to everyone I saw later. All of them assured me that wasn't the case. I hope they weren't lying, but all in all, who cares? I'm busy creating the miracle of life over here. What are they doing that's so important? LOL

But, I also had an absolutely fabulous surprise in the same setting. One of the grantees from my program presented me with a gift on Friday: a handmade set of newborn hat and booties that she knitted for BT! I was truly touched by her thoughtfulness and will take a photo to post. The set is really adorable. When I got home from my conference, I set the gift bag on my night stand so I could look over at the little hat. Too cute and much appreciated!!

Happy 1st Anniversary!!

22 Weeks: A Trip to the Zoo

BT's first trip to the zoo was yesterday and she couldn't even enjoy it! Baby's First Philanthropy was the walk at the Philadelphia Zoo for the National Kidney Foundation. Phi Sigs were out in force to support the event and it was a really fun day.




In completely other news, today is our first wedding anniversary!! This means that it was one year ago today that Ed and I took our vows to each other... and it also means we can finally get the year old cake out of our freezer. We plan to celebrate on Saturday night, but I explained to him that we each have to have at least a bite of ancient cake tonight or our marriage is destined to ruin. Either he believes in the tradition or he's afraid of questioning his hormonal, pregnant wife. But, either way, he agreed to chow down tonight.

21 Weeks: Soccer Star

Last night, the baby was kicking up a storm, which was so cool. But, even cooler... it was the first time you could feel it from the OUTSIDE!! I yelled for Ed to come on the run so he could feel her kicking. In typical Ed-fashion, he looked at me and said "How do you know she's not head butting you because she's mad that there's not a lot of room in there?"

Then, he did his impression of the way the baby looked on the ultrasound screen (how I wish I had a picture for you) and I said, "Well, darling, that's the fetal position... and she's a FETUS, so I think she's fine!"

LOL

20 Weeks: It's a Girl!!!

Ed was right! When we went to the ultrasound appointment on September 15, we found out that we're having a little baby girl! We are both so excited and I began immediately searching out cute pink outfits online.


It was fantastic to see her on the ultrasound screen. The detail is amazing - not only could we see her heart, but we could see all 4 chambers of it. We saw her organs and her tiny feet and hands and she looked just perfect. Ed now truly believes me that there is a baby in there!