Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Looking Back


Well, this pregnancy is almost over and, looking back, it's been quite a ride. Naturally, we've gone through a roller coaster of emotions (and we continually need to remind ourselves that the adventure has just begun).


  • Finding out I was pregnant was exciting.
  • Finding out I was pregnant two days after Jason lost his job was terrifying.
  • Hearing the baby's heartbeat was the best sound to ever hit our ears.
  • Seeing that little bouncy 12-week-old fetus on the ultrasound was indescribable.
  • Seeing Jason's face when they said, "It's a girl" was priceless.
  • Understanding that my body could do this was humbling.
  • Feeling the baby move was fascinating.
  • Seeing the baby make the remote control dance on my belly was hilarious.
  • Truly understanding the love my own mother has for me was enlightening.

I could go on and on with this list, because the variety of emotions and realizations is unending. Instead, I'll start a new list...the list of things I never knew (or realized) about pregnancy:

  • Not only is every pregnancy different, but most women FORGET what their pregnancy was like. This can be mildly frustrating when I'm describing any given symptom and I hear, "Gee, I wish you would just enjoy this pregnancy. I just LOVED being pregnant." *sigh*
  • Not everyone gets morning sickness, but some of us have UNCONTROLLABLE emotions and have to constantly say, "I'm sorry honey. I'm just a little unstable right now."
  • When you're in your second trimester and you think you're uncomfortable...just wait.
  • Sleeping on your stomach is often taken for granted.
  • Sleeping, period, is taken for granted.
  • A pregnant belly is an open invitation for unsolicited advice from strangers, even MEN.
  • The internet is an invaluable resource for pregnant women. If I didn't have the internet to research my symptoms, my doctor probably would've had to issue a restraining order.
  • Allowing someone else to feel the baby move is like sharing the best secret you've ever had with someone you love.
  • They should market that "Life Alert" product for pregnant women. I can see the commercial now, "HELP! I'm in the tub and I can't get out!"
  • They should issue every pregnant woman a personal assistant for two jobs: 1) pushing her up the stairs; and 2) picking anything up that she drops on the floor.
  • Expecting a baby changes your entire outlook on life. Your priorities change completely and what you thought was important before becomes frivolous in the grand scheme of things.

Again, I could go on and on with this list...but I'll spare you from my ramblings. All in all, it's been a wonderful ride...and the fun is just beginning.

Mandy

Saturday, August 19, 2006

And the Countdown Begins...

It's only 10 days until my due date...and I'm ready to get this party started! The baby clothes are washed and put away, the house is spit-shined, and the hospital bag is packed. All we need now is for our little princess to make her big debut.

The latest news from the doctor is that we are going to have a big baby. She's measuring at 8 lbs 3 oz according to the ultrasound at 38 weeks gestation. While the measurements can be inaccurate, the consensus is: she's big. I've heard that bigger babies are easier babies, but I have a feeling they are referring to AFTER they are born. Either way, we can't wait to meet her!

Kelli was nice enough to start an online "baby pool" for us. To get into the game, go to http://www.expectnet.com/ . Up in the left-hand corner of the screen, where it says "Invited Guests," type in the word evelyn. Then you can enter your guess. I suggest you enter quickly because once I go into labor, the game will be locked and all bets are off.

I'd like to send out a very heartfelt "thank you" for all of you who hosted and/or attended our showers. We had a wonderful time and we were spoiled beyond belief. It's so comforting to know that our baby will be surrounded with such support and love from our family and friends.

Love,
Mandy

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

She's in the 'blast off' position!


I went to the doctor today and he said that little Evelyn is in the "head down" position and ready to make her arrival. I'm not dilated or anything, but at least she's in the right position.

We're almost done with the nursery. We just have to put some pictures and stuff up on the walls. Here is a picture of the crib (click on it for a larger image). I think it's just adorable!