4 weeks...

Well, we have been adjusting to our routine (well, maybe just spending time together) this week. Nate has been battling a little congestion, and mom has gotten some visitors too! I did start pumping this week too (thanks Kathryn for your pump), and it was a little hard for me to be there when Ry fed Nate the first time.

I am totally amazed by you parents out there! I am still really exhausted most days - I can't see how I could do this and take care of other kids, cook, etc. Ry has only cooked 1 of my frozen meals since we got home. We have been truly blessed by such great friends who have taken care of us! Special thanks to Kim, Rowena, Sharon, Shana, Robin, Christina, Kristy, Linda, Shelley and Danielle who have provided us meals! It has been wonderful!!

Week 4 update:
Day 21 - Nate is starting to hold his head up, especially when placed on Daddy's chest. I call it the turtle. Also, spent most of the day cuddling - our "mommy hold me" day.
Day 22 - We tried to venture to take Nate out to dinner tonight. Got all dressed up, and had our giftcard in hand (thanks Justin and Danielle), but when we got to Chili's we got nervous and just got dinner to go. Still yummy!!
Day 23 - When Nate and I were walking up the stairs, he had the pacifier in his mouth, but when we go to the top, it was in his hand. Yea! Nate held his first item!! And special thanks to Shelley, Darrel and Kayla - we loved our Chuy's fajitas for dinner!!
Day 24 - Nana and Papa came to visit for the weekend from Waco. Nate is focusing more on faces (not just the edges) and is cooing and making more sounds! Yea Nate!
Day 25 - Nate kissed Mommy!! It was super cute! Our congestion started last night, so that was a little hard. Also noticed that his tear ducts seem to be working now too - so hard to see your son tear up! We also had a diaper explosion and milk eruption today!
Day 26 - Since we are still congested, we stayed on the couch most of the day. Nate is cooing and smiling more!
Day 27 - Yea, Mommy has visitors!! Rowena, Dustin and Henry come to visit! We had a great time chatting and catching up. Henry is 1 month older than Nate, so it was interesting to see how much Nate will change in the next month. I also pumped for the first time today and Nate got his first bottle. Special thanks to Sharon who brought us dinner! Great pizza!!

With Nana and Papa

Napping with momma

Nate and his pacifier

Momma, Henry, Rowena and Nate

Nuzzled up with daddy (Nate pushed himself on Ry's hands so he could get up to this position)

Reading stories with Dad (not sure who is having more fun, Nate or Ry)

Hanging out with Daddy

3 weeks...

Wow, time is flying by!! This has been a harder week for me and Nate, since Ry has gone back to work. It's wonderful that he was able to spend 2 full weeks with us, and help in the adjustment of our new family. Nate is growing lots, becoming much more aware of his surroundings and gaining much control over his head, arms and legs. This boy is getting strong!

First, Nate had his 2 week appointment on Wednesday, July 16. He made it up to his birthweight! Yea! Back to 8 pounds!! Now now more waking him up to feed at night!! What a relief! He has been sleeping more that 3 hours in a stretch at night (even going up to 5 even almost 6 hours between feedings), so that has been helpful to our sanity. He also grew 1 1/4 inches, pushing him to 20 3/4 inches! I'm glad we don't grow that fast now - I would be huge.

I also had my check for my c-section scar with my doc on the 16th as well. All looks good and I'm healing as I should. When I asked my doc when I could return to driving, he said 3 MORE weeks!! This is due to healing of the scar and how he doesn't want it to impair my driving and reaction time. 3 MORE WEEKS!!! This means I won't be driving until after my birthday!! Momma is going to go stir crazy soon, if not already!!

Week 3 update:
Day 14 - 2 week check-up, growing like a weed!!
Day 15 - Daddy's first day back to work! Comes back home for lunch! Yea! Turned his head for the first time during tummy time and we introduced the pacifier (and he loved it). Spent most of the day cuddling on the couch. Thanks to Christina for bringing us dinner tonight!
Day 16 - Stuck out tongue for the first time. Not sure if it was an accident or on command...
Day 17 - First outing! Went to Linen's and Things and Target. Had to head home fast - Nate was hungry. Special thanks to Nana and Papa to assist! Also, Tessa neni stopped by for a visit on her way between San Antonio and Ft. Worth. Whoop!
Day 18 - During tummy time tonight he rolled from his tummy to his back, and a few minutes later from his back to his tummy. Kinda surprised himself too!
Day 19 - Seriously, we heard him laugh today! Really! Soo cute!!
Day 20 - Nate's not a teenager (well, in days) anymore, but did start getting some of that teenage-like acne! Hope it clears up soon!!

Just a few photos:
Getting ready to go in the car... or as Ry tells Nate, getting ready for take-off

Nate and Uncle Justin, his godfather

Playing with Mommy as we wait in the pediatrician's office

Sleeping on Daddy's lap

two weeks...

Well, this week has been a whirlwind for our family! We have been adjusting to having Nate a part of our family, late night feedings, his circumcision, baptism and host of family and friends visiting.

Some interesting things we have had to deal with is our lack of sleep. Feeding every few hours gets taxing our minds and bodies! For example, both Ry and I have had a few "hallucinations" - first he thought Nate was in his pillow, but it was really his arm behind it. Ry also thought that Nate was in bed with us and couldn't find him, but he was just in his bassinet. Another night Ry woke me up to feed Nate and found me breast-feeding my pillow. I couldn't understand why he wanted me to feed him again (and I thought I was finally getting the hang of it - Nate my pillow did such a good job!).

We've also been blessed with lots of meals this week from friends! Thank you! My friend Sharon set up an on-line calendar for us, Care Calendar, and it is an easy way to organize meals and all. If you are interested, I'll send you our log-in info so you can check it out!

I've been trying to note Nate's daily achievements! I can't believe he is growing soo fast!

July 9 (day 7) - Nate did his first "super stretch" - arms and legs at the same time. He also did his first crazy, mega spit-up that scared Mommy.
Day 8 - Nate is circumcised. He did a great job, although I had to leave the waiting room since I could hear him crying. We also noted his first real smile today. Nate also meets my dad, Grandpa, today!
Day 9 - one thing to note with circumcised boys - they are much more sensitive down there. Nate squirted the changing table and wall twice! Nate also met his great-grandma (Dedi-Mama), my aunt and uncle from Hawaii, my cousin, her husband and Nate's 2nd cousin Emma from New Zealand, and Ted bacsi today! The reunion is beginning! We also met with a lactation consultant today and Nate is doing a great job nursing and latching on, as well as I am creating enough milk for him too!
Day 10 - Nate is baptized! We had a great group of friends and family to celebrate this great event. Will devote a posting this weekend to include photos and a recap of the special day.
Day 11 - Nate begins to hold his head up. This is especially noticeable when you are holding him on your shoulder.
Day 12 - Nate turns his head. We noticed this when Daddy was holding Nate and he was following Mommy as she was going through the room! Yea!
Day 13 - One thing Nate has learned from his cousin Emma is how to kick. Boy, his legs are getting strong and he loves to kick, especially when I'm trying to get him to nurse.

Will post more about the baptism and weekend of family. Sorry for the delay...feels like these last few days I've been trying to catch up on sleep and all from the weekend! Seriously, it has taken me 72 hours to finish this post! And I can't believe today is is Nate's last "teenage" day - 19 days old today!!

Here are a few special photos from this past week!

Me, Nate, my cousin Julie and her daughter Emma

Stephen bacsi, Nate, Matt bacsi (Julie's husband) and Emma

Nate and his Dedimama (great-grandmother - our Hungarian name for her)

Nate and my dad, Grandpa

Emma and my sister Tessa

Nate and my brother, Ted bacsi

Nate and his great-grandparents from Ry's side (came down from Pennsylvania)

1 week old...

Well, I can't believe Nathan has been with us an entire week now. It has just flown by! I used to spend so much time updating this blog, checking email, etc. but with his 3 hour eating schedule, seems like my free time is at a premium. Note: the 3 hour schedule is the max he should go between feedings. I'm also feeding on demand, as needed, but trying to figure out his hunger cues, and not that he is wet, needs to burp, etc.

I'm working now on his birth story. Let's just say, it didn't go according to plan. I had a long labor, and actually ended up having to have a c-section. If you are interested in the full story, let me know.

I also wanted to explain why we named our son Nathan. I've always loved the name, and when doing research on names, found out that Nathan means "God has given". We didn't think anything would be more perfect. His middle name is James, just like his dad and grandpa. I also found out that Nathaniel was another name for the apostle Bartholomew. St. Philip the Apostle brought Bartholomew/Nathaniel to meet and follow Jesus. The first child we conceived and lost to miscarriage we named Philip Gabriel. How interesting is that!

Here are some highlights and photos from the week! Please keep Nate in your prayers tomorrow as he has his circumcision and on Saturday evening when he will be baptized and welcomed into the Catholic Church. Hopefully it won't take a week until the next post...

highlights -
July 2 - Nathan is born!! yea! After almost 14 hours of labor we are able to meet our son!! nana and papa Dobson, mama Thibodeau, Tessa neni (aunt), Stephen bacsi (uncle), aunt Danielle and uncle Justin are there to meet our son!!
July 3 - Nate's first latch. Mommy and Daddy make it through the first day with the great help of our nurses at the hospital. They were great!! Mrs. K and Mrs. Bratten and Benjamin come to visit.
July 4 - great nursing day! first holiday - happy independence day! A special thanks to the Gretencord family who brought Daddy lunch (and dinner). Yum!
July 5 - was able to nurse without breast shield. We also get discharged from the hospital. Thanks to aunt Danielle and uncle Justin for helping us load the cars with all our loot, as well as help us when we got home. Loved the decorations! And Nana Dobson - thanks for spiffing up the house - it is beautiful!! Mommy and Daddy are also too nervous to let Nate sleep in the pack 'n' play, so he comfy sleeps between us!
July 6 - we notice that Nate is blinking! also meets great-grandma and grandpa McAninch. Tonight he spends his first night in his pack 'n' play! yea!
July 7 - first doctor's appointment. pediatrician asks if Nate has started sucking his thumb. Had not at that point, but started that afternoon! Also, mom's milk finally comes in!!
July 8 - modesty strikes! Nate loves to cross his legs when having his diaper changed - another challenge!

Happy Birthday, Nathan James Dobson

Our little Pumpkin, Nathan James Dobson, was welcomed into our arms last night, July 2nd, at 9:17 pm. He weighed in at a hefty 8 pounds at a mighty 19 1/2 inches long. Mom and Dad had quite an adventure bringing this little one into the world -- hence the delay in posting. Thanks to everyone for the thoughts and prayers! Mom and Nate are doing great now, albeit a bit tired. Dad is keeping the family together.

off to the hospital...

We are off to the hospital! Check-in is at 6, induction at 8. Not sure how long this will take, so it may be early evening or tomorrow when Ry posts something here.

Please keep all 3 of us, the doctors and nurses in your prayers! We can't meet you little pumpkin...just a few more hours!

St. Gerard, pray for us.
St. Gianna, pray for us.
Mary our Mother, pray for us.
All you saints in heaven (who aren't too busy), pray for us ;-).

D + 12 or I - 1...

We got to try out the amenities at the hospital yesterday... Due to being late, we had a few extra tests, especially for my rising blood pressure. I really think my doc wanted me to go since I was in such a good mood :-)

Going back in today for another test, and if there is still no progression we are on for tomorrow (6 am, really?). Then 24 hours from now I will be induced waiting for this baby to come! yea!! I can't believe it! It is almost here!

Thanks again for all of you who read this blog and pray for our family. Hopefully the hospital has wi-fi and Ry can update here soon tomorrow!

Just another day until we meet our little child, our little miracle...

D + 11 or I - 2...

Okay, is this getting a little ridiculous? Sorry for my "late" posting this morning, I actually slept in. Maybe Pumpkin knows something I don't...at least we know that in 48 hours I will be in labor...

The massage was great yesterday - for all the pregnant and post-natal momma's out there, I would highly recommend it! Awesome! Then Ry took me out for Hawaiian snow cones! yum! Then some walking too! We ended the evening with a nice, romantic dinner at Chee Zee and my super husband shared a sugar-free dessert with me!

Today we are going to the doc again this afternoon. I will pack my hospital bag and hopefully be able to use it!

Here are some pics also from this past week!

41 weeks


us (me, Ry, my brother and sister) with our grandparents


me and my little brother Stephen

D + 10 or I - 3...

Good morning! Pumpkin was sweet to let momma sleep in today! yea! If I could only get out of bed...now that is getting much harder!

Had fun yesterday with my mom and brother, and my family who visited from Holland (via College Station). All they wanted was Tex-Mex - so Chuy's it was! It's funny, whenever they come to visit that's what they want, and that's where we go. At least I varied it this time by going to a different location...

We also got a great blessing from our deacon yesterday at Mass...pumpkin is now all blessed and he did a special blessing the delivery and us as a couple. What peace! I just love being Catholic!!

My activity today is my pre-natal massage! I just *love* them! Ry gave me a monthly massage to one at a local center a year and a half ago, and it is wonderful. If you go, ask for Katie or Trinity - they are the best!!

My aunt, uncle and cousin went back last night to Aggieland. Today mom and Stephen are going there too to spend a couple days with my sister. A few days of an empty house will be nice... but hopefully we will not be spending it here :-)

D + 9 or I - 4...

I never thought I would be pregnant this long, but I should have known. Today I'm over a week overdue, or should I just be tracking "I" (inducement) now? Mom was induced with me when she was 3 weeks overdue - guess it just runs in the family! Hope 7 pound babies do too!

Today, my aunt, uncle and cousin are coming to visit from Aggieland. They actually live in Holland, but are visiting my cousin who is a sophomore at A&M. Hmm...what kind of spicy food do I want?

Today also is a special day for me and Ryan. 10 years ago this very day I asked him to go on our first date - we went and played putt-putt at the course in Aggieland (and had to hit more crickets and junebugs than balls), and then talked for hours in his car at Research Park. Who would have thought 10 years later we would be waiting for the arrival of our first child? What an amazing decade we have had together! Interestingly enough Ry and I started dating then, and never even broke up - we've been together since.

You are my best friend sweetie - I couldn't imagine my life without you! Thanks again for going out with me 10 years ago!! I love you!!

D + 8...

Well, need to take that 41 week pregnancy photo...got to keep the records accurate!

Two-thirds of my guests have now left...kinda sad but now back to relaxing! Did do some walking yesterday (Ikea, Bath and Body Works, Babies R Us, Bed, Bath and Beyond...) and the lady at Babies R Us kept telling me that the baby could come any time, even right now. I told her that was fine with me!

Not much going on today, probably just going to tidy the house, plan the baptism party, and get a few things organized. I did find an interesting study for those of y'all with kids of walking age... A $100 Visa gift card sounds good for 1 1/2 hours of work...

CWT Group is conducting a focus group for moms, dads and their babies (ages 9-16 months) to test a new product that helps infants and parents during the “learning to walk” phase. The focus group will host two sessions on Wednesday, July 2nd from 9:30am-11:00am and 11:30-1:00pm in central Austin. Parents will only need to attend one session. They will receive a $100 Visa gift card and product for participating. If you are interested and have a baby who pulls-up and hangs onto things to walk, or can take a step or two, e-mail Lydia at walkinginfo@gmail.com or call (512) 968-6642. To see more details, click here.

Happy Friday!

D + 7...

Good morning. Sorry to keep my loyal readers hanging last night. With the parents, grandparents, my brother and sister in town, I had a full house! Thank God they are not all staying here!! My mom made my favorite meal, Hawaiian Ham, and we just had fun catching up last night.

Well, onto the news you really want... still pregnant! Went and saw the doc yesterday. Did an ultrasound and baby is doing well. And I'm actually up 26 pounds with this pregnancy. That's good. I'm 2 cm now, and 75% effaced. We go back again on Monday if no baby has come. My grandparents aren't too happy (they've now been in Texas almost 10 days waiting for this baby), but know that babies come at their own time. Dad is taking them back up to Ft. Worth this afternoon, and Mom and Stephen (my brother) will stay until Sunday. We will have a few days alone, and if little pumpkin has not made his/her entrance, looks like I'll be induced next Wednesday (you know, we have to work around the holiday weekend and all).

Knowing all this has given me peace of mind. At least I know by this time next week I'll be holding my baby! How amazing is that! And knowing there is an end in sight makes dealing with these pregnancy discomforts more bearable. I did tell my doc that "I've been working very hard on relaxing." He seems surprised on my answer, but said I'm doing good and now I just have to watch more movies!

Thanks again for all the comments, thoughts and prayers. Looks like this daily blog may have to continue for a few more days!

D + 6...

Thanks for all the comments and prayers! Loaded up on the spicy food Rich! Had Tex-Mex for lunch and dinner!! My grandmother really wants to meet her newest great-grandchild, but I have a feeling that won't happen.

Had a great visit with my grandparents last night. My dad is #2 of 12 kids. When we have reunions and all, It is hard to spend time with them. It was fun hearing stories about her labors (like how she ran to catch a bus and went into labor, and that uncle is a big runner), or how she had the family vote on a name (but then didn't name the child that name). I'm looking forward to asking more questions today. They are in their mid-80's, so I don't think we will doing much walking or venturing out.

Stephen, my brother, came in last night from Chile. How great to see him! That boy never changes! Tonight my sister Tessa comes in for the night and will bring in Charlie the dog for the weekend. That will be a nice distraction too!

Guess my activity today is just spending time with them. Have an appointment with Dr. Love this afternoon, so I may update twice today...

D + 5...

What can I say - still pregnant! Going to the doc tomorrow, so we'll see what he says! Did go walking around Ikea last night - Ry even made me go at a faster walk - I don't think I've been that fast in weeks.

Today my parents and grandparents are coming. It is also a special day - my parents 36th wedding anniversary! It makes it easy for me and Ry since our parents' anniversaries are both 30 years after ours. My mom is bringing down my grandparents this afternoon and my dad is bringing my brother Stephen (from Chile!) this evening. They don't even get to have dinner together on their anniversary!

This day is also Ry's grandfather's birthday - Happy Birthday Grandpa Mc! What a wonderful man! He's always treated me like one of his own - I've had an old sweater of his, kinda like a Mr. Rogers sweater, that I've kept at work for years. It was a nice way to remember him and all he has done for me and Ry. Looking forward to seeing them in the coming weeks too!

For my "event" for the day, I'm going down to see my friend Lisa in South Austin. She had her 3rd son, Andrew James, on Father's Day. We shared our pregnancies this time, and I'm looking forward to meeting her son. Maybe it will convince little pumpkin it's time to join the rest of us.

Well, last night I did it. I finally told Ry I think I'm ready to have this baby! He said I just look so cute and pregnant! What a nice husband! Well, everyone is on their way here now, and even my sister called to say her big test is over so I can tell pumpkin he/she can come... Everyone is giving little pumpkin advice. If he/she is anything like his momma, he/she's not going to listen...

D + 4...

Well, we did it! We went to the movies! Ry had seen Indiana Jones the weekend it came out (he's a *huge* fan), and has been wanting to take me ever since. So, we went yesterday. And had the works - movie, popcorn and coke! yea! It was an entertaining movie - campy at times, but kept your attention. My friend Rowena went into labor the day after she saw the movie, so we'll see what happens today...

Yesterday I had 2 really interesting moments. It's amazing to me to see how other people react to my pregnancy. Often times we hear how as a culture people are not pro-life. That everyone is pro-choice, and if you are pro-life you are a minority.

Well, when giving the sign of peace yesterday in Mass, a woman took a double-take with me. She said "peace be with you", and then said "both of you", with a big grin on her face. The second time this happened was when this teenage boy was taking my ticket at the movies. He said "thank you" and then paused and said "sorry, thank Y'all!

So, in our pro-death society that we live in, when does this tissue inside my body change from being just tissue to a baby? Is it that I'm overdue? Is it that people can see and tell that I'm pregnant? Or does the media get it wrong? Are most people pro-life?

I have been overwhelmed how positive people have been toward me during this pregnancy - overly polite, opening doors, getting out of my way, offering to help, not letting me carry my groceries, etc. It has given me a renewed sense of the pro-life climate in our culture. How wonderful!!

Today's activity is to go to the Mommies group at our church, and get some last-minute errands done. Found out yesterday that my parents, grandparents, brother and sister are coming tomorrow. I need to remind them that I have to relax - doctor's orders!

Lastly, today is my ultrasound/charting due date (which I feel is more accurate). We'll see what happens today...

D + 3...

Well, we have had a nice, relaxing weekend. The Round Rock Farmers' Market was fun - got some great tomatoes, basil, and mojito mint (Ry made mine a virgin - yum!). Went walking around - the market, Lowe's and Sam's, and little pumpkin is nice and cozy. I've been asked what my prediction is for this baby - I'm thinking late next week...I wish he/she would come before the 27th (my grandparents are visiting from Alaska until then), but I'm not sure. My ultrasound and charting due date is tomorrow, which I think is a much more accurate date than the LMP.

Not much on the plans for today. I kinda feel like a baby - a little activity in the morning (Mass), lunch, naptime, etc. Ry has really wanted to take me to see the Indiana Jones movie (and that worked for my friend Rowena, she had her son the next day), so we may head to the movies this afternoon.

Hopefully, if we do make it to my doc appointment on Wednesday, my doc will comment on me being un-uptight! Really working on it!!

D + 2...

Well, pumpkin seems nice and cozy, not sure if he/she is coming out any time soon...

We have been quite popular this last week - calls from all over the world! My cousin Julie in New Zealand (can't wait to see you in July), my brother Stephen in Chile (can't wait to see you next week), my aunt Geri in Holland (yea, we see y'all next Saturday), and last night one of my best friends Christina from Australia (now when are you visiting... :-)! Seems like I've been chatting lots on the phone!

Well, Sharon is really trying to win the contest I posted yesterday. We had a great walk around the pond near our house, fed the ducks with her 3 kids, which was really great! Thanks Sharon! Feel free to continue to post your votes for the gender and due date of the bambino...

Not much else going on. Still trying to not be "uptight". Today we are heading out to the Round Rock Farmers' Market. I didn't even know until last week that this existed. Should be interesting, and maybe we can even get some tomatoes!!

Please also keep in your prayers 2 other new mommas, my friends Anne-Marie and Andrea. We are all due within a week of each other with our first babies. Anne-Marie's due date is today, Andrea's is Monday. We have had a cyber-pregnancy support group these past 9 months that has been very helpful. Good luck ladies! Can't wait to hear your good news!

Until tomorrow...or earlier :-)

D + 1...

Well, the due date came and went. Had a nice relaxing (albeit lazy) day. Will try to do that again today, but it's harder that it seems... a few episodes of Law & Order, surfing the net, long showers, well I guess I could get used to this!

Thanks for the suggestions yesterday. The 6 hour Pride and Prejudice does sound good - I may venture out to get it today. Otherwise, it may just be a Bridget Jones marathon!

Last night Ry and I had a wonderful dinner at one of our favorite place, the Melting Pot. I'm soo glad I found a guy who loves fondue! I've loved it for years, and it is a great way to have a nice, long, romantic dinner. We were imagining going there once pumpkin arrives, and seating him or her in the booth between us! It was nice to have an evening just to ponder and focus on these past 40 weeks, and on the journey it took us to get here.

So, since y'all have been soo good at commenting, I have another question. Let's have a poll on the gender and birth date of our little pumpkin (I know many of y'all have strong feelings about this). So comment with that info, and the time of birth and weight, if you feel so inclined. I guess I could throw in a nice pic of the baby as a prize :-)

D-Day...

Well, today is the due date day. Doesn't seem like little pumpkin will be making his/her arrival anytime soon.

To help me relax and cure my "uptightness" that my doc called it, we will just be relaxing at the house today. No water aerobics, no errands. Maybe even read a non-baby book!

And Kathryn, to comment on your comment from yesterday, he has delivered many babies. Should take his recommendations. Kinda hard for a type A person like me. I feel like I'm just being lazy. Don't have War and Peace, but do have a few other books. Now just to find a comfortable reading position.

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers. Was a little overwhelmed yesterday. I am soo honored to be pumpkin's mom - I just can't wait to meet him or her! That time will come, eventually :-)

Any suggestions on helping me be less "uptight"? What did you do when you were waiting for your babies to come? Did schedule a nice "date night' for tonight - fondue at the Melting Pot! yum!

1 down...

9 cm to go! Well, we are progressing, but I thought I would be much farther along at this point (massage, water aerobics, full moon...). Kinda disappointed. Well, very disappointed. Also, the check was a little more uncomfortable than I thought, so getting kinda nervous about this whole labor thing. Say a few extra prayers...this momma's doesn't know what to expect or how I'm going to handle it! And to top that, my doc says I'm doing too much and need to relax. He said just get a book and read. Doesn't he understand how difficult it is for me to lay and read!! Men! Doctors! argh!

FYI, the ultrasound due date is June 22/23...so I'm trying not to get all worked up. And I was 3 weeks late, although my doc will only let me go 2 weeks (July!!).

St. Gerard, pray for us.
St. Gianna, pray for us.

1 day...

Well, as I try not to think that tomorrow is my due date, I'm going to keep myself busy today. So as not to keep my readers in suspense, just want to let you know I did not go into labor last night. Going to finish some freezer meals this morning, have lunch with my good friend Robin, and then head to my doc appointment to see how things are progressing. Had a great massage last night, and she hit all the labor pressure points! We'll see if that works! You may be lucky and get 2 posts today...

2 days...

Wow - 2 days! But, could be up to 16 - my doc says we'll talk about inducing at 42 weeks. So, this daily update may continue for awhile! I did do my water aerobics today, and am off to a massage in an hour...maybe that will get things progressing!!

Yesterday my friends Kathryn and Amber commented about having their children around the full moon. According to the Farmer's Almanac the next full moon is tomorrow - June 18! We'll see if that prediction runs true for us...

I did find an article to substantiate this, but most of the scientific studies state that this is mostly it is an old wives tale. Here is the article's reasoning:

The theory is that the moon's gravitational pull effects the amniotic fluid in much the same way as it effects the water in the sea, rivers and even the water that's otherwise found in our bodies.

As a woman's body prepares for natural childbirth, the amniotic sac becomes distended so the point where it will easily burst if put under pressure. Under normal circumstances, the pressure of labor contractions bursts the sac. During a full moon, the pressure caused by the moon's effect on the water inside the sac can cause the same things to happen, but without the accompanying contractions.

Well, if I do go into labor, I'll try to have Ry post something here. Otherwise, if I'm not posting, you know what I'm doing!

3 days...

Wow, 3 days? Really? I guess one thing about being "retired" is you never know what the date is. I know what day of the week it is, but not the date...

One assignment we had in our Bradley class was to write down activities to do for the week prior and 2 weeks after our due date. It's to help keep your mind off just waiting, and plan for other things.

So, today's activity: have lunch with my former roomie! yea! I had lunch with a former roomie Teri who I lived with my sophomore and junior years at A&M. She just moved back to Austin and we hadn't seen each other in several years. And today was her birthday - so happy birthday my friend!

Then I also spent some time chatting with my friend Sharon and she gave me a bundle of cloth diapers. Yea! Pumpkin is getting all stocked up!

I forgot to post yesterday of this strange comment I got while in line at Rudy's. This woman commented that I was "huge" and must be having twins. When I told her it was just one, she said the baby had to be 10 pounds!! Can you believe it! I have only put on about 23 pounds this entire pregnancy! And that someone would tell a stranger that. And it wasn't that she didn't have children, she was holding a child. Oh please, no 10 pound baby for me! please...

Ry thought it was weird too that when we were at Starbucks yesterday, the cashier leaned over the counter to touch my belly! I should have at least gotten a free drink out of that!

I guess I should consider myself lucky. Haven't been stopped with the crazy birthing stories from strangers, or gotten many other pats on the belly. There is a full moon coming, maybe that's why people were acting so strange...

4 days...Happy Father's Day!!

We've had a relaxing day today! Mass, Starbucks, HEB, and Rudy's for some BBQ. Boy was that place crowded - guess it is where all the dads wanted to be!

Ry's parents came down to celebrate the day with us. It was nice just to hang out and relax. Even found more decorations for the nursery, so will have to post updated photos soon!

Ry did pretty good for his father's day! A Burn Notice dvd (he just loves the show), cute family frame with pic of us, and pic of me in one of his shirts. Next year I'll take it with our little one and we can watch how he/she grows up in daddy's clothes! It barely buttoned for me! Ry's parents gave him some baby items (car seat protector, for the new car and all, and a cute I love Daddy bib) and a nice shirt too! They even brought some food so I won't have to cook much this week! yea!

No contractions or anything. Just a bit uncomfortable, usually in the morning or at night. During the day, I seem fine, just walking much slower :-)

5 days...

Thanks for all the comments these past few days! I'm soo honored to have such great readers!

As promised, here are photos of our nursery. Still working on finishing painting the bookshelf, and trying to figure out some more artwork..

changing, nursing, rocking area

our super-cute crib, given to us by Ry's parents and the bedding by mine

the great closet Ry worked so hard on! and do you see the baptismal garment, it was first used for my aunt when she was baptized over 61 years ago!

and the entire room! the cute little aggie blanket was sent by our great friends Ray and Elizabeth, and we got it yesterday. I just love it!!

and here I am, 39 weeks preggo!

and exictedly so!

and last, my absolute favorite photo! Ry took this recently, and I just love it!!


still going to take it slow today! yesterday I spent the entire day at home! it was great!! giving myself a few days off, and then next week, well, at least my doc will be back!

6 days...

Well, not much going on today. Trying to take it real slow this weekend - my doc is on vacation and I would really like it for him to at least check up on me... So a fun day checking email, updating the blog, etc.

No contractions or anything. Pumpkin seems quite content. Will take a 39 week photo tonight, so y'all can see how I'm doing :-)

I am putting together a listing of intentions to pray for during contractions, so if you have any needs, please let me know. And also putting together some Catholic prayers, so if you have any suggestions...

39 weeks...

Well, here we are - 39 weeks! Amazing!

Little pumpkin is doing well. Went to the doc (actually, just saw the nurse) yesterday and all looks good. My doc is on vacation this week, so please pray that our little one doesn't decide to make his or her entrance until at least Monday :-) Another good thing is that since I just met with the nurse, we didn't started cervical checks. yea! Will find out next week if I'm progressing. The other good news is that my sugars have been great - and now I only have to check twice a day! yea! My fingertips will be soo happy!!

As I was thinking about what to post, I wanted to remember things that are a little more difficult for me during these last few weeks of pregnancy. Most of you mommas out there will understand, so feel free to post what was hard for you.

- washing dishes (seems like the sink is soo far away)
- rolling over (seriously, I have asked Ry to help me roll over to get comfortable)
- getting comfortable to sleep (I have 5 pillows on my side, and some nights use all of 'em)
- being warm (have the fan at medium to sleep and I don't use the covers and Ry is bundled like it is winter!)
- getting up at 2 am, or 4 am, or 6 am just to go to the restroom...and sometimes more than once!
- I'm walking much slower...
- can't really bend over to pick anything up
- taking naps in the afternoon (this is a real change, but I'm getting used to it :-)
- a bit of insomnia (can't seem to sleep in)
- driving (even though we have a new car...have to move the steering wheel a little more away)
- showering (got my stool in the shower now, so that makes it better)
- walking up and down the stairs
- growing out of pregnancy clothes!
- got pregnancy brain (reading things wrong, even wrote an email to Kraft this week that their instructions were wrong for a new item I tried)
- waiting (and y'all know me, I'm a real planner)
- wondering if this day or this night will be "the time"

Thanks for all your prayers and support during our pregnancy. There are some out there I know who read this blog and have walked with us through these last several months (and even the 4 years to get to this point), then y'all "stalkers" too! Feel free to comment so I know you are out there :-)

Will try to post more often this last week (or weeks, my doc won't worry about inducing until 42 weeks). A fellow blogger Florida Wife was great at posting her last week of pregnancy, so I will try to do so too! Maybe it will ward off some calls and emails...

Single digits...

Well, 9 days until my due date! Wow! Seems like just yesterday that we were finding out about this pregnancy. I was soo worried in the beginning. As many of y'all may know, this is our 4th pregnancy. The first 3 never made it past 10 weeks, so we kinda kept it under wraps until we passed our first trimester.

Things are going well. As you can see from the previous post, Ry was quite busy this weekend. And last night he generously went with me to the "big" HEB. We did a big "stock-up" trip. And I'm finally mastering the use of coupons - saved almost $31, although we did spend $159 (and I didn't get the meal deal, just regular coupons). I don't think the people behind me like me very much - I probably had 25 coupons! And the whole trip took 3 hours from leaving the house to returning. Probably won't be able to do trips like that for awhile.

Now, one thing we hadn't told many people, is that we found out that we were pregnant the day after the feast day of St. Gerard. I belong to an on-line Catholic group, and they had done a novena to St. Gerard in celebration of his feast day. On one day, one of the intentions was for us to increase our family. I do feel that through his intercession we have. He is a wonderful saint who is the patron saint of expectant mothers and pregnancy. You can find more info on him here.

So, since we are 9 days out, we plan to start a novena to him, asking for his intercession for this pregnancy and delivery. Feel free to join us!

Novena to St. Gerard

Most Blessed Trinity, I, Your child, thank You for all the gifts and privileges which You granted to St. Gerard, especially for those virtues with which You adorned him on earth and the glory which You now impart to him in heaven. Accomplish Your work, Oh Lord, so that Your kingdom may come about on earth. Through his merits, in union with those of Jesus and Mary, grant me the grace for which I ask.... (Mention your request)

And you, my powerful intercessor, St. Gerard, always so ready to help those who have recourse to you, pray for me. Come before the throne of Divine Mercy and do not leave without being heard. To you I confide this important and urgent affair.... Graciously take my cause in hand and do not let me end this novena without having experienced in some way the effects of your intercession. Amen.

O good St. Gerard, powerful intercessor before the throne of God, wonder-worker of our day, I call upon you and seek your help. While on earth, you always fulfilled God's designs; help me, too, always do God's holy will. Beseech the master of life, from whom all parenthood proceeds, to bless me with offspring, that I may raise up children to God in this life and heirs to the kingdom of God's glory in the life to come.   
Amen.

Photos to come on our almost finished nursery! yea!

My husband's been nesting...

Well, seems like it is not just me who has been nesting for this baby! Look at what my wonderful husband has done just in the last 36 hours:

- put in the mattress in the crib
- hung the artwork in the nursery (photos to come when I find the camera...). Quite a feat with a wife who couldn't make up her mind...
- hung a mirror in our bedroom that has been on our floor for over 2 years
- hung a mirror in the guest room
- washed both cars
- put extra dirt in the front yard
- watered the yard and making it look very nice
- set-up the pack-n-play in our bedroom
- installed the hammock in the pack-n-play
- installed the car seat in the car
- put together the stroller
- put together my nursing stool
- transplanted a sapling from our yard to a pot

And made dinner for me (and we had nothing in the house - even had to go to the grocery store to get food!). What a great husband! I'm so lucky and blessed!!

Momma's raise...

So, Momma got her raise - a new set of wheels! Yea! Check out our one-week old addition!

in the driver's seat...


a sweet side view...


front on...


and check out the date, the day before pumpkin is due!


A special thanks to my wonderful husband for making this possible! Your months (even years!) of research really paid off! It is a beautiful car and I love it! thank you!

the civic did find itself a new home - back in Aggieland! Tessa, hope you enjoy it as much as I have these past 10 years!

$945!!!

Pumpkin is up to $945 in pledges...Just need $155 to beat last year's of $1100. Any last minute sponsors? If so, use link on posting below!

a message on behalf of pumpkin...

I'd like to invite you sponsor me for the 14th Annual Texas Alliance for Life Walk 2008 (even though Mommy doesn't work there anymore). She has been training hard (well, maybe that's just to get ready for me), so we won't let you down. The Walk will be on June 7 in Austin, June 21 in Seguin and June 28 in Georgetown. We probably won't make it to any of the "official" walks, and just walk on our own (you know, Texas heat and all). The funds promote the sanctity of innocent human life and to raise funds for life-saving programs and agencies in our community.

100% of the proceeds will support these programs and agencies, and all donations are tax-deductible.

You can sponsor me here. Last year Mommy and Daddy raised over $1100 and I hope to beat that! I've already raised over $600!!! If you have any questions, just ask Mommy. If you have sponsored our family in the past 2 years, we thank you!!

Can't wait to meet you!!

love,
Pumpkin, age 37 1/2 weeks

4 week update...

Well, I have been officially out of work for 4 weeks now. This week I've been a bit discouraged on my progress in getting everything ready, so I decided to write down what I've done since my last day at TAL on May 1. Made me feel a bit better...

Classes:
Infant/Child/Adult CPR and First Aid class
Breast-feeding class (at hospital)
Infant Care class (at hospital)
Almost done with our Bradley Birth classes

Doctor appointments:
Weekly with ob/gyn
dental appointment (not very comfortable at this stage...)
almost weekly diabetic appointments (and got GD under control - without medication!) - and I have to include lots more exercise to keep this under control!
interviewed and chose pediatrician (thanks for the great recommendation Shana and Sharon)

NFP/FC stuff:
wrote letter to Dr. Hilgers for a client
5 appointments

Social engagements:
our 6th wedding anniversary!
several lunches with friends
wonderful baby shower
my parents visited for 2 weekends
Aggie Girls Night
joined and attended Moms' group at our parish
walking dates with friends (thanks Sara and Shana)
set up meal website for a friend who is due this week (I just love it this great website Care Calendar)
Pumpkin has raised over $500 for the Texas Alliance for Life Walk 2008

Baby Prep:
decided on a photographer for Pumpkin's first year (and won a $200 gift certificate)
set-up nursery - designed room set-up, washed newborn clothes, purchased some items we had yet to receive, etc.
finished baby shower thank-you notes
began updating our will
found gifts from pumpkin for his/her godparents
created birthplan
finished Secrets of the Baby Whisperer
almost done with Happiest Baby on the Block

Prep for house:
tried to complete weekly blessing hour (if you haven't heard of Flylady, check out the link!)
deep cleaned kitchen, guest bedroom, baths, laundry room, office, nursery, our bedroom, my closet, and our master bath
prepped 14 frozen meals for when bambino arrives
2 huge loads of stuff to Goodwill (including 6 bags of my clothes!)
4 boxes of books donated to our local library
began weekly menus (and tried to stick with them)
tried to go to the grocery store weekly (a big feat for me)

Okay, well that looks impressive. Guess my type A personality was getting the better of me...Sometimes you just need to write it down, and sit back, and reflect. Yesterday was 37 weeks, and it seems like things this week have slowed for me - taking more time to get out of bed, do simple errands, etc. As a friend of mine reminded me recently, I will never have this time again. This time just to relax and prepare. And my house is ready, maybe not perfect in my eyes, but I think it would be perfect in a baby's. It is our home!

36 weeks...

Well, here we are - 36 weeks! Can I tell people now that I am 9 months pregnant? Or will that freak people out?

Seems like Pumpkin and I finally got this gestational diabetes under control. We tried diet with no exercise, didn't work. We tried medicine, made me hypo-glycemic. And this past week, we tried diet and exercise, and to my (and my perinatalogist's surprise) we finally got it under control!! Whoop! Now we don't have to take that awful medicine, go for weekly ultrasounds, or BE INDUCED!! Ry has been such a great support - making me walk and exercise even when I didn't want to. It's been so hot lately, I didn't want to walk a couple nights ago, so we played Wii Sports for awhile. I'm not too good (could be this extra weight and all), but at least we were moving around and sweating.

I can't believe it has been 3 weeks since my last day at TAL. Doesn't seem that long... I think I need a post to show off all my nesting...maybe tomorrow when Ry has his Indiana Jones movie marathon!

Pumpkin's Austin Baby Shower...

Yesterday we celebrated Pumpkin with a baby shower here in Austin. I am blessed to have 6 wonderful friends who offered to put it on. The funny thing was that most of them met for the first time at the shower!

Here they are from left to right:
Sharon - my Catholic compass and wonderful prayer partner
Lorena - my former roommate in college, bridesmaid, etc.
Paula - a friend who has mirrored my life - moved to Austin at the same time, got married a week apart, pregnant together, etc.
me
Erin - my wonderful NFP teacher and support with our infertility
Robin - my former co-worker and wonderful cheerleader
Danielle - my husband's best friend's wife who has become one of my closest friends


My mom, sister and me


Me and my sister Tessa, and the cute rocker she painted and was given to Pumpkin by her and my mom


And I was very fortunate to have several other pregnant mommas at the shower. We may have to all get together in November for an updated photo... From right to left they are:
Rowena, due end of May
Lisa, due mid June
me, due June 19
Robin (due end of August)
Paula (due beginning of October)
Kristy (due middle of October)


Thanks again for everyone who helped prepare this special day, and helped us in all the things we need for our little one. Just a few more weeks...

update on the GD...

Well, looks like my readers have been praying hard for me and Pumpkin because...we have stopped taking the gestational diabetes medication!! yea! Seems like it was working a little too much, and my ob/gyn wanted me to get off it for a week. So, I'm going to work *super hard* this week to get the diet just right, and exercise, so that we don't have to go back on it. At least 3 times in the past week I have become hypo-glycemic (light-headed, shaky, fast heartbeat, etc.).

Thank you!! And we will keep y'all updated! Already 35 weeks tomorrow....

my friend Emily...

My friend Emily found this posting for me. Beautiful. Thank you!

If you want a fun read, check out her blog! Always keeps me laughing and smiling of her experiences as a mom of 5! Now I remember going to her wedding...and hanging out at St. Mary's even before she met her husband!! How wonderful to have blogs to keep up with each other's lives!!

6 1/2 years...

Last week we went to Green Pastures to celebrate our anniversary. We went there 6 years ago when Ryan proposed. Here we are then...


And here we are last week, 6 1/2 years later. Just little bit different!


And Happy Mother's Day too!

34 weeks...

I can't believe it, we are at 34 weeks! Amazing! Here's a photo of me earlier this week at 33 weeks. Some days, I feel like I haven't changed, others I feel huge. I think we can go with huge in this photo...


We've had some difficult news this week. Seems like diet has not been able to manage my gestational diabetes, so I've been put on medication (low dose, mornings only). But, since I am on medication, this means weekly ultrasounds to check on the baby's size, and that I will probably have to be induced before my due date. There are other risks, including high chance of stillborn, bigger baby, etc.

It has been difficult for us to deal with this. Seems like soo much has been out of our control with this pregnancy. I know that it will prepare us for our child, and in a few weeks, I will be holding him or her and it will be all worth it. Just hard to see that at this time.

So, just keep us in your prayers. I am hoping that perhaps with increased healthy eating and exercise I can stop taking the medication, and we can try to proceed as naturally as possible. But, if not, we will continue on. May not be my "ideal" pregnancy or birth, but what really is?

Majella Society dinner

Last month, Ry and I attended the Majella Society 4th Annual Benefit Dinner. We had a great time at the table of our good friends, the Gretencords. I think we had the most pro-baby table at the dinner!

Sharon and Adam (parents to 4, most recently Gianna, born September 07)


Mike and Mary (parents of 2, grandparents to 5)


Shana and James (parents of Thomas, born December 07)


Rowena and Dustin (baby due end of May)


And us (due mid June)


And a few pregnant momma photos!

Me and Nicole (who had her daughter Caroline on Monday! Yea!)


And lastly a cute momma photo of Rowena and me! What a great event! Thanks Sharon and Adam for inviting us!

Happy Anniversary!!

Wow! Today is our 6th wedding anniversary! Amazing!! It was about this time that we were getting to the church, doing some photos, and getting ready for the vows. Today we went to that same church, our parish, St. Albert the Great, and our pastor gave us an anniversary blessing. How wonderful!

We sure have had a great few years! We've been able to travel, bought a house, and brought 4 souls into this world. Thank you Ryan for being my partner through all this. You are my best friend and I cannot imagine my life without you! I am a better person with you. Can't wait to go celebrate tonight at the place you proposed to me, Green Pastures.

I was going to post some photos from the wedding, but that's a sore subject...a different photographer showed up at the wedding, ran out of film, did a poor job...

So, here is my favorite from our honeymoon - a week in Kauai, Hawaii! It was amazing!!

my last day...

Today is it, my last day of work. I thought it would be interesting to chronicle my work experience, since this afternoon I become a full-time mom...

Following college, I worked for almost 2 years in Houston as a software installer at Universal Computer Systems (now called Reynolds and Reynolds).

Then I moved to Austin, without a job, hoping that the tech boom would make it easy for me. Within a couple weeks, I found a job working as the administrative assistant, with the Office of Youth Ministry with the Diocese of Austin. Over the next 4 years, we would also take on Young Adult and Campus Ministry.

Then I worked in the office at our parish, St. Albert the Great. I scheduled wedding and baptisms, and did general office work. It was great meeting more members of the parish.

And then I left there, in December of 2006, to become the Director of Community Development at Texas Alliance for Life. It has been a different job for me, but lots of what I love (event planning, working with volunteers, etc.). The organization has had a tremendous amount of growth in the past 2 years, and I am happy to be a part of it. The amazing thing is that I only worked there 20 hours a week, and was able to get soo much done. I'm soo thankful for a husband who allows me to work for the great non-profits that I have been associated with.

This week, they had a nice good-bye lunch for me at la Madeleine. And surprised me with a few gifts for our little pumpkin too! I'm really going to miss them! It has been a great time, with great friendships, learning and more! I hope to continue to stay active, and bring our little pumpkin along.

So, as of 2:30 pm today, I will be retired. Retired from my "regular" jobs, in order to prepare me for my vocation as a mom. I'm excited about this new journey, and so very thankful!!

World's Largest Baby Shower

For those in the Austin area, come join us next weekend for the World Largest Baby Shower with the Round Rock Express. It benefits a local pregnancy help center, Agape Pregnancy Resource Center. All you have to do is bring a new baby item, and you'll get a free ticket to the Friday, May 2nd game. What could be better!

See y'all at the ballpark!

31 at 31...

We here I am, 31 years old and 31 weeks pregnant! yea!

Had my appointment with my dietician today. We are doing well on the gestational diabetes diet, so no need for insulin at this point! yea! It has been easier to manage then I thought, especially with such a supportive and helpful husband!

We were able to have a tour of the hospital today too. The birthing rooms were great, but the post-birth rooms looked kinda small. May have to splurge and get a suite or mini suite. Hopefully they will finish the construction by the time pumpkin arrives...

Lastly had our doc appointment. I'm up 20 pounds with this pregnancy! yea! Everything else looks good. Now on to 2 week appointments...