Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Vera Lily Bettencourt

Introducing our beautiful daughter ...

Vera Lily Bettencourt
born November 9, 2011 at 12:14am

8lbs 2.5oz 20"

Perfection!!!






Sunday, October 30, 2011

Week 40

How far along are you? 40! Wow has this journey gone quick though I'm not quite sure I want it to end. This pregnancy has been AMAZING. I'm a little worried about the baby being the opposite of the pregnancy so a part of me would like to hit pause but the other part of me is incredibly excited to meet the newest addition to our family.
Total weight gain/loss? 26 lbs total, hopefully it comes off easy :)
Maternity clothes? Anything that streches a lot! I feel like my belly is growing by the day.
Strech marks? Not a fan of them :(
Sleep? A little iffy here and there.  If I find the right spot, I'm okay.  It's finding the right spot that is tricky.
Best moment this week: Mom arriving!
Movement: Definitely tight quarters in the belly but I love feeling the hiccups
Food Cravings: Seems like food isn't too appealing. Probably because their isn't much room for it.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: I'm super anxious to know
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Beaming!


Monday, October 24, 2011

Week 39

How far along are you? 39 - how did this journey go so quick???Total weight gain/loss? Right on track!  Pretty sure I'm at 24lbs total for weight gain.
Maternity clothes? Pajamas have taken over! Washed my work clothes and I'm tempted to pack them up.
Strech marks? Growing as fast as the baby it feels like
Sleep? Saturday night I was restless though I've decided that my afternoon nap messed me up.
Best moment this week: My last day of work!  I was anxious to be home and work on my to do list before baby arrives ... so far, so good!  Also, two new baby cousins on Saturday
Movement: Still plenty of it.  I like when the baby takes a nap and I can focus on other things.  So distracting but I love every distraction!
Food Cravings: Sweets?  They are all I can think about!
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: We'll all know very, very soon
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy! How can one not be when a baby is about to come into the world.



Sunday, October 16, 2011

14 days left!!!

How far along are you? 38 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Didn't gain any weight at the Dr's this past week.  We had a few birthdays at work since then so I suspect the scale will go up a little come Tuesday.
Maternity clothes? One week till pajama time (though I practice on the weekends)
Strech marks? Growing baby means strechmarks are showing up more and more too.  I'm hopeful my skin cooperates and they fade once baby arrives.
Sleep? Sleep is becoming a little less comfortable.  Don't get me wrong, I still get a good 8 hours of rest but changing from side to side wakes me up.  It takes some work to roll this baby around.
Best moment this week: Hmmm.  Baby laundry?  Ha ha ha.  Might be the only time I say it's the best moment of the week.  Tiny clothes make for a happy momma-to-be.
Movement: Quarters are tight.  The baby's movements can cause some pain but it's wanted so not a big deal.
Food Cravings: Hmmmm.  Candy corn?  I've eaten nearly the whole bag by myself.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Starting to feel a little anxious about finding out if the baby is a boy or girl.  I'm ready to add a little pink or blue to the closet :)
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Doing the happy dance.  One more week of work and maternity leave begins.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Week 37

How far along are you? 37 ... the scarier number is the 3 (or thereabout) left to go!
Total weight gain/loss? My eating habits have been a little off.  Halloween candy surrounds me and co-workers like to feed the pregnant lady, which I rarely turn down.  I have my groceries stocked up for the week so we do a better job of eating at home and consuming healthier things.
Maternity clothes? Two weeks of work remain then I fully intend on pajamas taking over my daily fashion statement.
Strech marks? Making sure I lotion up everyday.
Sleep? Words cannot express how thankful I am that my nights only mean one or two visits to the bathroom.  Here and there I sneak in an afternoon nap on my lunch break
Best moment this week: Honestly, it's not something I'll discuss here but if you ask, I'll be happy to share!  But it was an incredible surprise that is a huge help to us :)
Movement: They say movement slows down around this time in the pregnancy and I'm not sure I've noticed a slow down.  I can feel the baby constantly which means anyone around me gets to see and feel the baby move too.
Food Cravings: Fish. James won't eat it as much as I'd like.  He's headed to a men's retreat next weekend and so don't be surprised if I endulge in fish on a daily basis.  Seriously, my mouth is watering!
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Clueless, still
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy! I'm a little bummed that this pregnancy is coming to an end but I'm ecstatic about meeting the newest member to our family!

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Week 36

How far along are you? 36 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Staying on track with a pound a week
Maternity clothes? Trying to "enjoy" them despite the feeling that I wear the same thing over and over.
Strech marks? Considering my tummy is growing by the second, things aren't too shabby
Sleep? I seem to have come across a second wind which means 8 hours of sleep is sufficient
Best moment this week: A baby shower at work.  An afternoon of desserts and ton's of gifts for Baby Bettencourt.  I'm not sure how this little person can be so spoiled already!!!
Movement: Pretty sure I've been feeling hiccups. Not positive though.
Food Cravings: Chocolate anything and fish.  Not together.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: I'm so clueless.  Though I do think it would be mighty entertaining if this bambino turns out to be a girl.  There are so many boy predictions that it would sure catch most people off guard.
Wedding rings on or off: Still sporting my "Dubai" ring
Happy or Moody: Incredibly happy


Sunday, September 25, 2011

35 weeks and 35 days left to go!

How far along are you? 35 weeks ... a little overwhelming how time has creeped up on us
Total weight gain/loss? Tuesday starts the weekly Dr visits which also means the weekly weigh in's!  Not sure if that's a good or bad thing.
Maternity clothes? All day, every day!
Strech marks? Lotion seems to help keep everything looking okay
Sleep? Lots and lots of it! I think it's about time to allocate a daily nap at lunch though.
Best moment this week: Showing off the baby's room.  Lots of people were here over the weekend and they haven't seen the room.  It was fun to show it off and brag about my mom's amazing job with the nursery bedding.  We also purchased a Toyota Prius.  Plenty of room for baby now :)
Movement: Pretty sure things are starting to get tight.  Lots of pressure that makes me want to hold my breath.
Food Cravings: Watermelon?  I just need someone to cut it up for me!
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Nothing different for me.  No instinctive feeling.
Wedding rings on or off: Wearing a ring just not my wedding/engagement ring
Happy or Moody: Happy!



Sunday, September 18, 2011

34 weeks

How far along are you? 34 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? My feeling was correct and I gained more than I would have "liked" in the last two weeks.  The Dr was assuring that I am still doing awesome though.  I'll blame it on water retention :)
Maternity clothes? I have bought only one maternity shirt.  Then some regular shirts, just in a larger size.  My shirt wardrobe is dwindling in that I'm close to not being able to cover my belly in the pre-pregnancy shirts. 
Strech marks? Trying to lotion up and hope that the marks on the bottom of my belly don't grow
Sleep? Still plenty of it!  Makes for a happy pregnant lady!
Best moment this week: Our small group/Bible study had a baby shower for me today.  Such a wonderful group of women.  I'm ecstatic to bring a child into this world knowing the Christian community that he/she will be raised in.
Movement: I still get very distracted by the baby moving around.  Definitely a special little world I'm living in.
Food Cravings: Bread and butter pickles
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Thinking I should start a poll on here to see what the "audience" thinks
Wedding rings on or off: The Dr was a little concerned about the tightness of my wedding band so I switched to another ring.
Happy or Moody: Happy!

Sunday, September 11, 2011

33 Weeks and Counting

How far along are you? 33 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? We're going to the Dr's every two weeks now which means more frequent weigh in's (lucky me).  I have a feeling this next appointment isn't going to be so great though.  I feel like my tummy is growing by the day!
Maternity clothes? Getting close to wanting to wear my jammies all the time again
Strech marks? I'm going to say yes but other's tell me they aren't.  Strange marks at the bottom of my belly.  Wierd thing is I don't feel that this is "where" my belly is streching.
Sleep? Lots of it!  I'm incredibly lucky as I usually don't wake more than once in the night to use the bathroom.
Best moment this week: Hmmmmm.  I'm savoring the baby's constant movements as I feel like I'm running out of time to have this kiddo safe and sounds inside of me.  We also did another round of car shopping this week.  We're starting to change our mind from the Civic Hybrid to the Prius.  Decisions, decisions.
Movement: Baby Bettencourt is getting strong!  No more flutters or bits of movement.  It's a full on boxing match inside there.
Food Cravings: Thanks to one of my co-workers, I've been eating napoleons from the chicken pie shop.  My dad sure had a sweet spot and I suspect this baby might as well.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: I'm clueless
Wedding rings on or off: I have trouble somedays getting them on.  Just reminds me to drink my water and then I seem to be okay.
Happy or Moody: Happy!



Saturday, September 10, 2011

Nursery 101

Project nursery is near completion and I couldn't be happier with the results!  We had a little hiccup with the furniture as the glider did not go together as planned.  Amazon was amazing about the exchange and we were back on track.  My mom made the bedding which turned out perfect.  Definitely something we will hold on to for future children, grandchildren, etc.  A few more finishing touches to complete.  In December, when my sister-in-law is in town from Ohio, we're going to add a tree mural to the wall.  I'm overwhelmingly intimidated by the project so her help will be greatly appreciated.  This will also give us the opportunity to add a little boy or girl to the tree (swinging or climbing the tree) as the baby will be here by then.  For now, here are the results!









Monday, September 5, 2011

Maternity Photo Shoot

My father-in-law took these amazing pictures!










Sunday, September 4, 2011

How far along are you? 32 weeks (my apologies for skipping last week)
Total weight gain/loss? Gained 2lbs the past month which makes for 13lbs total
Maternity clothes? Cheater jeans as James calls them!  That's all I wear :)
Strech marks? Ugh.  Not sure if they are strech marks or not - James and my mom say no.  Strange things that your body does while growing a little person.
Sleep? Back to my daily naps at lunch and 4 hour naps on the weekend.
Best moment this week: Too many best moments!  Baby shower, my mom being in town, seeing the nursery bedding, spending time with Jessica, James successfully putting together the glider, a 4D ultrasound, taking maternity pictures and more!
Movement: The other night my belly was moving to the right and left so I showed James.  He said "you're making your belly do that."  Ummm ... show me how I can make my belly do that mister!  A little creepy I suppose.
Food Cravings: Back in a strawberries mood :)
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Still more boy predictions than girl...only a few more weeks then we will know!
Wedding rings on or off: Borderline on
Happy or Moody: Best mood ever!  Everything is coming together perfectly!

Sunday, August 21, 2011

3/4 of the way there!

How far along are you? 30 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? In "hold" mode till the next Dr's appointment
Maternity clothes? So I haven't worn my maternity suit as of yet but today I was at Target and it was on sale.  So I bought it again.  Ha ha ha.  And I'll return the full price one!  Super excited to save a few bucks.
Strech marks? Still none that I see
Sleep? Love my beauty rest :)
Best moment this week: James built the crib, dresser and glider. Only problem is the glider had an issue with it so we're exchanging it. Pictures to come!
Movement: Such a distraction. My mind is not on church at times.
Food Cravings: Don't really feel that I've had a "craving" yet ... nothing strange or silly that would make others go yuck!
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: I think I'm going to give the ring over your belly trick a try. All these wives tales are so tempting.
Wedding rings on or off: Keeping them on
Happy or Moody: Happy! I've had an awesome week and the coming weeks are going to get even better.


Monday, August 15, 2011

Week 29

I'm behind schedule!  Only by a day though :)  Such a busy week and weekend, I'm not sure where all of my time went.  The coming weeks will keep the same pace.  Well, until the first weekend of October.  I'm trying very, very hard to leave our October calendar wide open so we can have plenty of relaxing weekends at home.  Let's see if my plan holds up!
How far along are you? 29 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Will check in on this at the next Dr's appointment
Maternity clothes? Thank goodness for strechy material :)
Strech marks? Nope but I'm watching carefully. I have a feeling they will sneak up on me
Sleep? My body is starting to demand more again. 8 hours a night is just not cutting it!
Best moment this week: Completing our childbirth class and removing all the boxes from the nursery
Movement: I feel like my belly is in a constant earthquake motion.  Love it!
Food Cravings: Ugh. Not a good thing but this week I have decided that anything and everything sweet sounds amazing.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Your guess is as good as mine
Wedding rings on or off: On as long as I keep up on my water consumption
Happy or Moody: Emotional is probably the best word

**Note: ignore the dirty bathroom mirror**

Sunday, August 7, 2011

and 3rd trimester begins!

How far along are you? 28 weeks...where has time gone?!?!?
Total weight gain/loss? 3 pounds this past month
Maternity clothes? Bought a bathing suit today and yes I realize summer is almost over
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? I'm spoiled, I get lots of it! Even had 11 hours of sleep on Friday night
Best moment this week: Scheduling a 3D ultrasound
Movement: Plenty of it.  Strange feeling when the baby turns and "squishes" my lungs.  Takes my breath away, literally!
Food Cravings: Stuck on fruit. I ate 4lbs of cherries this past week.  Insane!
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: Still no clue or "feeling" on my part
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy as a pig in mud! Ha ha ha
Weekly Wisdom: More like weekly advice needed.  What to do to motivate myself to work on my to do list?  Naps and movies are taking over my weekends!

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Week 27

Well I should start off by saying, where the heck is time going?  The first trimester seemed to crawl by but now I cannot keep up with my to do list!

How far along are you? 27 weeks (3rd trimester is around the corner!)
Total weight gain/loss? We'll find out on Tuesday at the next Dr's appointment
Maternity clothes? Oh yes! There is no turning back.
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Once in awhile, I make it through the night without waking up to use the restroom.  Pure bliss!
Best moment this week: A crazy, busy week at work (which I love) ... and the nursery furniture arrived!
Movement: ALL the time! Love it!!!
Food Cravings: Nothing that I would consider a craving. Just feel like I'm eating nonstop - small/healthy snacks, all the time.
Belly button in/out: In
Gender prediction: No prediction on my part. We're close to a decision on names for a girl and boy though, which means we'll be ready for either :)
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy! Though you could also say emotional. Dare I look for a birthday/sympathy/anniversary card for someone. I swell up with tears!
Weekly Wisdom: This has been the perfect timing to join a couple's small group/Bible study. So much focus has been on the baby that it's a much needed "break" to focus on us a couple :)

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Week 26

How far along are you? 26 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Haven't been to the Dr's yet
Maternity clothes? Pajamas are the world's greatest clothing item!
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Ha ha ha. Our bed looks like a tornado hit it at times
Best moment this week: Buying furniture for the nursery (on my birthday - happy birthday to me!)
Movement: I love the belly movements. It's like a little alien is living inside of me.
Food Cravings: I've been pretty good about steering clear of junk food. Until the grocery store visit this week and I picked up a tub of candy bar ice cream. Delicious!
Belly button in/out: In and I'm told if it stays that way, I'll be having a girl?
Gender prediction: I had another baby dream this week but I find myself covering up the baby's sex ... guess that means I really am determined to keep the sex of the baby a surprise
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy! But it's my birthday week so how can I not be?
Weekly Wisdom: When you find nursery furniture you like, buy it! Don't wait!!!

Sunday, July 17, 2011

25 Weeks

How far along are you? 25 weeks and a new veggie! Baby is the size of an eggplant
Total weight gain/loss? Eliminating this question unless I've been to the Dr
Maternity clothes? Thankful for some hand-me-down's!!!
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? This is becoming a complicated topic. Sleep is hit or miss. Just depends on the night.
Best moment this week: Being so close to having the baby's room empty and ready to decorate
Movement: Nonstop. Well, close to it. If you are patient, I can guaranty you'll feel a kick :)
Food Cravings: Still on a fruit spree! When this child comes out a shade of pink, don't be surprised! Cheeries and strawberries are ALWAYS in my fridge.
Belly button in/out: In and hoping it stays that way
Gender prediction: So recently it was asked if little girls or little boys are clinging to me at Sunday school. I feel like a magnet when it comes to the little girls. Some say this means we're having a boy?
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Back to happy. Though I have my emotional moments. Yesterday I was in tears because I can't keep our stainless steel fridge clean (fingerprint free). Poor James. I was ready to return the fridge. Don't think it would be that easy though since we bought it four months ago. Ha ha ha.
Weekly Wisdom: Still liking any spare time at home in my jammies

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

July 13th, 2011

Miscarriage. The topic of today's conversation/blog. Are you aware that approximately 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage?  It's an incredibly common thing but it seems in my circle of family/friends, few people talk about it.  (Therefore my assumption was that few had experienced it.)

July 13th was the due date for our first pregnancy.

James and I had agreed that our pursuit to start a family would begin when we were making offers on homes.  We were thrilled and overwhelmed when our first month of "trying" was a success.  We were anxious to share with family and quickly spread the word.  For Thanksgiving we headed to South Dakota to spend the holiday with my family which meant we were able to share our exciting news in person.

Throughout the trip, a stomach bug was going around, starting with my nephew, moving on to Maury, my sister-in-law, brother then James.  My mom and I were steering clear.  Until I was about to go to bed on Friday night and I started to get some stomach pains.  I crawled into bed hoping to sleep things off.  In no time, I was experiencing excruciating pains.  Like a I'm going to pass out and I am sure I was 20 shades of white. My symptoms weren't along the lines of what those who had the stomach bug were going through but I assumed this was what I was experiencing.  Symptoms changed and I said a little prayer that if I was miscarrying, to please not be getting the stomach bug as well.  At this point, my mom and I debated a trip to the local emergency room - keep in mind that James was curled up in bed.  The pain had seemed to pass so I went to bed and said if the pain occurred again we would head to the hospital.  Throughout all of this I was amazingly calm.  Silly as it may sound, I was quite educated about a miscarriage.  I'd read more about than the average expecting woman.  Almost as if I was prepared for it to happen.  Strange. When I told James I was fairly certain I was miscarrying, he reacted in a very similar matter but more along the lines of our bodies rejecting a pregnancy because something is not right.  I cannot even begin to explain how much it helped to have James' matter-of-fact opinion.

We returned home and I visited the Dr's office who confirmed the miscarriage.  My body was recovering on it's own, like it should.  The Dr went over how long we should wait to begin trying for another baby.

Again, I cannot comment on how calm, cool and collected we were about this miscarriage.  We were confident we'd be pregnant again in the near future.  This was not a sign of something James or I did wrong, genetically or in the beginning phases of the pregnancy.  We were 100% okay with what had happened.

It's amazing, as you talk about a miscarriage, how many women you will find in your circle of family and friends who have experienced a miscarriage.  Each woman (and man) has a different reaction to a miscarriage.  Sensitivity is key.  I didn't want to dwell on the miscarriage.  Others may never want to speak of it or they may want to speak of the miscarriage a great deal.  My best piece of advice, listen and offer emotional support.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Tuesday Nights

When moving back to California, James and I discussed that one of our top priorities was finding a church to call home.  James dad, Phil, had introduced us to Saddleback church and after several visits we knew this church fit us well.  Quickly we went through the membership classes and each found a ministry to volunteer in.  One major component was missing - a small group or a Bible study group.  We contacted a few small groups but never found one where we felt comfortable.

In serving through the children's family, I have met one of the most amazing families.  I took care of their eldest son and now their middle child is in our two year-old class.  Recently the mom, Tiffany, asked if I would like to participate in a women's group study on So Long Insecurity by Beth Moore.  Though I had some major reservations, I thought this was my "chance".  Two weeks in and I look forward to my Tuesday's more than ever!  Even more exciting is that she and her hubby are starting a new couple's series and invited James and I to be a part.  The 12 week series starts in the near future and will wrap up just about the time that Baby Bettencourt makes his/her arrival.

I'm ecstatic!  Nothing like having a group of individual's to support you and make you accountable to the morals and beliefs that we should be holding ourselves to.

I'll write more about the women's book study we're working on.  Just not quite yet.  Needless to say I'm incredibly thankful for Tiffany asking me to participate and opening my mind and heart to new experiences.  Thank you Tiffany!

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Six months and counting...

How far along are you? 24 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Total weight gain of 8lbs per the Dr's office (not just in one week, but since day one
Maternity clothes? Thinking I need a pair of shorts then I'll be set for awhile
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Only if surrounded by pillows
Best moment this week: James feeling the baby move!!!  I may have been more excited than he was though.
Movement: Lots of it! Uncertain at times if the baby has hiccups or has gone on a kicking spree. It's very distracting at church and work though :)
Food Cravings: Anything James can cook on the bbq (which means I don't have to cook)
Belly button in/out: In and hoping it stays that way
Gender prediction: No clue whatsoever!
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: As much as I don't want to admit this - VERY moody! Certain things and people are really getting to me. Drives me nuts that I know I'm the problem :(
Weekly Wisdom: It's time to start using the baby as an excuse to stay home and be in my jammies :)



Sunday, July 3, 2011

23 Weeks

How far along are you? 23 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Well per the scale this morning I've lost 3 pounds but I know that isn't correct. Dr's appointment on Tuesday then I'll go with their number.
Maternity clothes? Mom mailed the work pants back to me and I bought a few tank tops to help get me through summer
Strech marks? None that I see
Sleep? and plenty of it!
Best moment this week: Feeling baby (not just seeing) from the outside. If only I could time things a little better so James can feel
Movement: Definitely can feel the baby a lot more during the day (and night if I wake up)
Food Cravings: Sticking with fruit. Bought a HUGE bag of cherries today!
Belly button in/out: In and hoping it stays that way
Gender prediction: The two year-olds in my Sunday school class say girl
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy
Weekly Wisdom: Baby loves loud music!

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Week 22 - Papaya

No more weekly fruits :(  I like the fruit comparisons so now we go a few weeks without having a new fruit to compare.  Maybe I'll make my own fruits up.

How far along are you? 22 weeks

Total weight gain/loss? Fairly certain I've gained somewhere between 1/2 and 1 pound
Maternity clothes? I can wear some of my pre-pregnancy shirts but they are quickly becoming a little too high to cover up the belly
Strech marks? None so far
Sleep? Still appreciate a good 8 hours of sleep a night less a few bathroom trips
Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move during worship at church - I think someone likes worship!
Movement: Like crazy!
Food Cravings: The baby doesn't care for rich foods so I need to be a little in tune to what I'm consuming
Have you started to show? I think we're about due for a new question here
Gender prediction: Still no "gut" feeling on my part
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy
Weekly Wisdom: 24 ounces of water before leaving the house for work equals a pit stop to get to work so I'm drinking a little less water before I leave home

Short and sweet this week :)

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Week 21

Am I the only one that is slightly confused about the baby going from the size of a cantelope to that of a banana?  Okay so I understand it's the length of the baby but still very confusing for the average "Joe".  Moving on.

How far along are you? 21 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Per my scale, I haven't gained any weight since the last Dr's appointment
Maternity clothes? Did some more shopping this weekend.  Also purchased some more appropriate work pants which are being shipped to my mom for further hemming (she just doesn't know it yet).
Strech marks? Nope. I've decided to be a little paranoid and start lotioning up the belly.
Sleep? Okay Jennifer, I read on your blog that you wake up 4-5 times a night to go to the bathroom (if not more).  Well I became VERY thankful for the 1-2 times a night that I'm up.  I'm in heaven!
Best moment this week: Seeing the baby move from outside and another ultrasound (I promise pictures are coming soon)
Movement: Completely appreciative for the relationship I have with this child that no one else has quite yet.  James gets a kick out of me laughing and watching my belly all the time.
Food Cravings: Nothing special.  But if I said Rusty Pelican's shrimp cocktails, clam chowder and garlic break, would I get more of it?  So delicious! (P.S. Happy 7 year Anniversary to us!!!)
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: Nope and I like the brief answer
Have you started to show? More and more everyday it feels like.  My brother-in-law made a comment today about the growing belly too.
Gender prediction: Well some people are jumping ship to the girl side
Wedding rings on or off: Focused on keeping the water intake up and the rings on
Happy or Moody: Happy but also a little weepy. Why must I cry at the silliest of things?
Weekly Wisdom: Buy a BBQ so your husband can start cooking dinners.  I cannot wait!!!

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Half Baked?!?!?

How far along are you? 20 weeks - where has the time gone? we're at the halfway mark!
Total weight gain/loss? Eeeek.  The scale was a scary place at the Dr's office this last week.  Got me motivated to start exercising though so James and I have been walking 2-3 miles on the weekdays. Overall I've gained 2lbs - not too shabby just gained more than I expected in one month.
Maternity clothes? All my pre-pregnancy pants have taken a trip to the back of the closet
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Plenty of it though I'm trying to avoid sleeping on my back :(
Best moment this week: Totally unrelated to the pregnancy --- Traci is engaged!!!
Movement: I'd be lying if I didn't say that I have a little dose of sugar if I haven't felt the baby move at all in a day or so
Food Cravings: Nothing that I call a craving
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: If brushing my teeth is going to be a problem again, I might just cry
Have you started to show? I sure have
Gender prediction: Much to the disappointment of family and friends, we're holding out for the BIG surprise
Wedding rings on or off: On and hoping they stay on ... lots of water please!
Happy or Moody: Happy as ever
Weekly Wisdom: Ummmm. No clue!
Pet Peeve: A little too much belly touching. I'm all for someone touching my belly but no need to go overboard

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Snap, Crackle, POP!

How far along are you? 19 weeks - baby is the size of a mango (is it terrible that all I can think is yummm)
Total weight gain/loss? I've given up on tracking my weight at home. I'll leave that up to the Dr's scale so next week I'll have an update
Maternity clothes? I paid a visit to Target on Saturday and am the official owner of 3 pairs of new pants.
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Plenty of it
Best moment this week: Catching another glimpse of Baby Bettencourt at our anatomy scan
Movement: Love the feeling! It's like a secret relationship I have going on with the little person inside of me. Early evening's are the busiest time.
Food Cravings: Fruit is my best friend
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: Seems like I'm extra sensitive to salty foods
Have you started to show? I feel like I've exploded
Gender prediction: No clue! We did a great job of turning our heads at the ultrasound so we can keep the sex of the baby a surprise
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy as ever
Weekly Wisdom: Buy pants before you actually need them that way when you wake up one morning and nothing fits you don't end up in near tears.
...and we have a new view with pictures this week





Sunday, May 29, 2011

Week 18

How far along are you? 18weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Not trusting my scale so I'll wait till the Dr's visit to see where I'm at.  Can't be too good though - we've been visiting all of our favorite O.C. restaurants with friends in town from Jersey.
Maternity clothes? My to-do list includes clothes shopping
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Sleeping like a rock but having some crazy dreams
Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move AND scheduling a baby shower date :)
Movement: Yes!  Apparently marshmallows wire this baby! Friday night we had a bonfire which included s'mores. Either the baby loves sugar or it was a little too much sugar. Regardless it makes for a happy Mama!
Food Cravings: Still loving all sorts of fruit
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: Not queasy or sick but apparently Mexican food is going to give me heartburn. Not nice since it's my favorite!
Have you started to show? A little bump
Gender prediction: I had a dream - a very strange dream - but I was disappointed that I didn't sneak a peek at whether the baby is a boy or girl. Oh well!
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy :)
Weekly Wisdom: Naps are still my best friend!

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Surprises?!?!

What kind of person are you at Christmas or your birthday?  Do you search for clues of your gifts - maybe playing 20 questions, shaking boxes, analyzing the size and shape of packages?  Or do you nearly forget about the gifts waiting for you?  James and I have decided to go with the "ultimate" surprise and not find out the sex of our baby until the big "labor" day.  Pure torture but I know that when the time comes it will be well worth the wait!

James is the person that could wait 5 days after his birthday or a holiday to open a gift while I'm itching to open "just one" gift a day or two or three early.  So while our anatomy ultrasound is just a few days away, I know that I won't be able to convince him to sneak a peek at whether we're expecting a boy or girl.  On the other hand, I am very excited at such a huge surprise in this experience.  Thank goodness I have James to hold me to the surprise.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Week 17 - Lovin' our onion

How far along are you? 17 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Feels like I'm gaining weight by the day but my scale is inconsistent so I'm not really sure where I'm at
Maternity clothes? I've retired a pair of jeans which means the time is quickly approaching
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Plenty of sleep though it's been recommended I invest in a pregnancy pillow
Best moment this week: Kim bringing me a Baby cookbook. Very excited about all the possibilities!
Movement: Nothing yet ... waiting impatiently
Food Cravings: Fruit, fruit and more fruit. I just get tired of prepping it - if only my Dad were here to spoil me rotten.
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: Eating too much.
Have you started to show? Well I sure can't "suck it in" anymore.  Ha ha ha.
Gender prediction: Starting to have a increase in girl predictions. Still don't have a strong feeling one way or the other myself.
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy :)
Weekly Wisdom: Working on the decision of a new car purchase. So we're doing lots of research.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Holy Guacamole!

How far along are you? 16 weeks
Total weight gain/loss? Well last week I thought I had gained weight but the Dr tells me I lost another 1.5 pounds. No clue where I'm at this week - we just got home from Vegas and I highly doubt the scale would be my friend so I'm not going to look.
Maternity clothes? Not yet. I keep telling myself soon.
Strech marks? Nope
Sleep? Very excited that I can make it to 10pm and not be passed out. Maybe it's time to start watching my favorite tv shows again?  Still love my lunch time naps.
Best moment this week: Vegas! My love for drag racing has been reignited
Movement: Not that I recognize as movement
Food Cravings: Crab legs!  Ha ha ha. Well not a craving but I was able to have them twice while in Vegas
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: No! Actually I was able to brush my tongue without gagging
Have you started to show? Just what I notice to be a difference
Gender prediction: The majority still go with boy
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy, happy, happy
Weekly Wisdom: Eat lots of small meals/snacks so I don't get grumpy

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Week 15 - Orange-alicious

How far along are you? 15 weeks

Total weight gain/loss? Pretty sure I've put on a pound since last week
Maternity clothes? Nope but my jeans are a tiny bit snug around the bottom of my tummy
Strech marks? No
Sleep? Plenty of sleep but the Dr indicated I needed to focus on not sleeping on my back.  Of course now I wake up often paranoid that I'm sleeping in the wrong position.  Pillows are beginning to surround me.  Any suggestions how to stay on my side?
Best moment this week: A little silly but drinking 72-80oz of water every day
Have you told family & friends? Yep
Movement: Nothing new, just obvious growth going on
Food Cravings: Del Taco's bean burritos and I cannot get enough green sauce
Anything that makes you queasy/sick: Still have to be careful with vitamins
Have you started to show? Maybe a tiny bit but nothing that most would notice
Gender prediction: The majority still go with boy
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or Moody: Happy, actually had an amazing week
Weekly Wisdom: Drink water!!!

P.S. Happy Mother's Day to every amazing Mom I know!

Saturday, May 7, 2011

#45 - Fix the sofa

We were emotionally attached to our sofa.  It was ours and something we worked very hard for.  Honestly, we spent way too much money at that time in our lives to purchase the sofa but it lasted us 10 years.  I have no doubt it could have lasted us another 10 more.  Unfortunately it was the wrong shape for our new home so it was just too big.

Thanks to craigslist we found a new home for our sofa - a Christian family with kids and they were looking for a "spare" sofa for their basement/playroom.  Lots of people came to look at the sofa but it is BIG and so it didn't work for their home.  Thankfully this family had the space.  James helped load it up and take it to them.

Then it was time to find a replacement.  We searched high and low for a sofa.  It was no easy task.  But it's perfect for us.  We had to work a little hard to get it.  The store took it off display which meant they were or were almost sold out.  Thankfully we found one in La Mirada so our concerns were put to rest.

Introducing our newest piece of furniture ---