1 week Post-Partum update!

The saggy bag of jello is receding!

Me & my littlest

How far along? 1 week after delivery!

Weight gain/loss: 138 lbs. Loss of 9 lbs. Riddle me this: when I got home from the hospital and weighed myself I was only down 6 lbs., yet Aurelia weighed 7 lbs. 3.3 oz. How is this possible?!? :(

Feeling: Almost 100%! I'm pretty much back to my pre-giant-pregnant-belleh activity level and am feeling pretty good in general. *TMI warning* Sharing the following because people have asked: Just a little bit of cramping and light bleeding at this point. After Carina was born, I bled for almost a month. This time around? It has tapered off already. I'm hoping that I'm in the clear! I actually ditched the giant diaper pads and mesh underwear as soon as I got home from the hospital. I have also had very little soreness and no burning. I haven't needed to use the Dermoplast and I retired the peri-bottle a couple days after getting home as well.

Maternity clothes? I am still wearing a few maternity things (including jeans) because they are more comfy. And? It has been a little chilly and all of my Fall clothes are packed away. Must find them this weekend...

Sleep: Most nights Aurelia sleeps for one 4.5-6 hour stretch, and then another 2.5-3.5 hour stretch. So I am definitely not complaining! She cluster feeds for a couple hours before going down for the night, otherwise I'd worry she wasn't getting enough to eat. She gained 3 oz between getting discharged from the hospital and our well visit the next morning (less than 24 hours later)! I'm eager to see how she does at her next appointment on Monday, October 8th.

Breastfeeding: It's going really well. She has difficulty latching every now and then, but it's usually only for a minute or so before she gets it. I experienced just a little initial soreness like last time and some engorgement while my body was trying to regulate to her schedule, but otherwise no complaints here. Other than nighttime, I'm feeding her about every 1.5-2 hours. Sometimes it is even more frequent. I just feed her whenever she wants it ;)

Last time I took a photo of the sad saggy belly at 5 days post-partum, so naturally I had to take one this time to compare. It's really amazing how quickly it can recede - the photos above were taken just two days after the one on the right, below.

5 days post-partum with Carina (on 1/2/11) and Aurelia (on 9/28/12)

Due date!

Here I am, 40 weeks pregnant. No baby, or even sign of baby yet. I guess she is content to be fashionably late to the party.

Me and my girls

How far along? 40 weeks. DUE DATE!

Weight gain/loss: 147 lbs. Total gain of 29 lbs. so far.

Feeling: Getting uncomfortable. Not miserable yet, but definitely ready to have this baby.

Maternity clothes? Wearing my favorite dress from Seraphine today :)

Sleep: I'm just going to answer "very little".

Food cravings: Fudge and chocolate chip cookies. I made both this week, but sadly messed up the cookies last night when I used a 1/2 cup measure instead of a cup for the sugar and brown sugar. Pregnancy brain fail.

Movement? Not nearly as often. She must have no space to spare in there.

What I miss? Alcohol. I hate to admit it, but I do. I have a big bottle of Bacardi waiting for me when we get home from the hospital.

Best moment this week: Carina has been extra snuggly this week. She'll randomly jump into my lap and say "Mommy hug!" or come in for a kiss. It's so sweet. I wonder if she knows what's up?

What I'm looking forward to: Meeting her, of course! I'm starting to get a little impatient.

Next Appointment: Tuesday, September 25th at 40 weeks 2 days. At my last appointment, I wasn't dilated at all, and 60% effaced. My OB doesn't induce for postdates until 41.5-42 weeks. Hopefully baby will come on her own well before then.

Milestones: I hit my due date!


I never hit 40 weeks with Carina, but somehow I feel like I looked bigger in my 38 week photo with her than I do today. What do you think?

Check out the cute babies & bellies linked up with my 37 week bumpdate!

No baby yet! 39 week bumpdate

If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you might know that I had some contractions on Friday night and for a little while I thought they were the real deal. Nope - just a tease. Before this happened, I was perfectly content in waiting for my due date for baby girl to come, but now I'm finding myself getting impatient!

How far along? 39 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 146 lbs. Total gain of 28 lbs. so far. I gained 35 lbs. last time.

Feeling: Surprisingly energetic! I've been on a tear trying to clean and organize around the house. Yep, nesting is in full effect. It is a little hard, though, when you're dealing with uncomfortable contractions all the while ;)

Maternity clothes? I feel like this is a rhetorical question at this point.

Sleep: Other than a little bit of restless legs and getting up 3+ times a night to pee, I am getting some quality sleep. I've also been able to fall asleep earlier than midnight almost every night this past week!

Food cravings: Olive Garden. We were going to go on Friday until the contractions started. To satisfy my craving I made Olive Garden copycat breadsticks last night and they were absolutely amazing. I'll have to blog the recipe.

Movement? During the contractions on Friday and since, she has been moving like CRAZY. It's almost constant.

What I miss? You'd think by now I'd be used to have such an enormous belleh, but somehow I'm still clumsy and end up bumping it into everything! So? I miss being able to walk around worry-free, rather than treating our home like an obstacle course.

Best moment this week: Getting the Pack n Play and changing station set up in our room. Just like old times.

What I'm looking forward to: Holding her for the first time.

Next Appointment: Wednesday, September 19th at 39.5 weeks. I'll let my OB check my progress for the 1st time, I think.

Milestones: I am the most pregnant I've ever been! Just for fun - does anyone have a guess as to when the baby will arrive?


I never hit 39 weeks with Carina, so this is uncharted pregnancy territory for me. Last time, I did do a "what would have been 39 weeks" post with an awesome post-partum pic. Oh the saggy bag of jello... ;)

38 week bumpdate!

How far along? 38 weeks

Weight gain/loss: Still 145 lbs. Total gain of 27 lbs. so far, which is 7 lbs. less than I was with Carina at this point.

Feeling: Okay, actually. Sure I'm tired and don't feel like moving from the couch much, but other than the little scare last week I've been doing just fine.

Maternity clothes? Most of my tops are at that weird tenting stage, which isn't particularly attractive. Since it's still so warm out, I'm mostly living in dresses or tank tops and gym shorts. To be truthful, though? I'd much rather hang out with the bump out. So much more comfortable...

Sleep: Better! I think I'm so exhausted that it has managed to overpower my insomnia.

Food cravings: Raisin Bran with milk, and CHOCOLATE*. Can't get much more random than that! Carina loves the raisins, too. She's always hawking my cereal.

Movement? I'm not feeling much other than a few rolls here and there. Except last week when Carina accidentally punched my stomach - baby girl fought back! Unfortunately that wasn't so pleasant for me. I can't believe she's still in utero and they're already fighting ;)

What I miss? Doing anything at all with ease. Giving her a bath, emptying the dishwasher, doing laundry, everything! is just such a chore at this point. I think it takes me at least twice as long than it did when I wasn't enormous.

Best moment this week: Finding out that baby and I were just fine at L&D. I was really worried that I was going to have to be induced again...and I wasn't ready yet!

What I'm looking forward to: Meeting her! If she's anything like Carina, she could be here in just a couple days. Eeek!

Next Appointment: Friday, September 14th at almost 39 weeks.

Milestones: Only two weeks until my due date!

I was 38 weeks with Carina on Christmas Day back in 2010. At the time, I had no idea it would be my last bump pic! Carina was born just 3 days later. Looking at the photo, wow, I looked freakishly huge. I don't think I look as big this time!

If you'd like to follow along with everyone else's bump and baby updates from last week, check them out here, and feel free to link up yours, too.


*Speaking of chocolate, because I'm so obsessed with it right now, I'm hosting a Velata Chocolate Fondue party with my friend Sandy! Check out my Velata review from a few months back if you're interested!

37 weeks (term) bumpdate!

How far along? 37 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 145 lbs. Up 3 lbs. from last week for a total gain of 27 lbs. so far.

Feeling: Contractiony - if that were an adjective. They're not quite painful yet, but are certainly uncomfortable. And they're happening quite often. Insomnia has also been a problem as of late.

Maternity clothes? My comfortable cotton nighties now barely make it past my belly. I've had to pair them with too-tight gym shorts. If I weren't ready to pop I'd probably invest in some maternity pajamas ;)

Sleep: Trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Getting up to pee every hour or so doesn't help.

Food cravings: Fried mushrooms. I wanted them so badly all last week I  finally broke out the deep fryer on Friday night to satisfy my craving.

Movement? I'm actually not feeling much right now, and haven't for a few days. When I do? They're just small rolls/movements as opposed to kicks and punches. She is running out of space for sure.

What I miss? Being able to lift/maneuver Carina. Her new favorite thing to do is climb on the chairs and table and I end up picking her up and putting her down over and over again and I'm just so exhausted. I can't even keep her on my lap for timeout because I can't control her thrashing.

Best moment this week: Our friends sent us a Rock n' Play Sleeper for Aurelia! I had mentioned a couple weeks ago how badly I wanted one. Well, we put it together and Carina put her baby doll in it and started rocking her. Yep, there were tears.

What I'm looking forward to: Finishing getting ready for her arrival. Just a few more things to purchase; our double stroller should arrive in a few days...eeee!

Next Appointment: Thursday, September 6th at 37.5 weeks.

Milestones: I am now technically term. Yikes!

For comparison's sake, here I am at 37 weeks with Carina. I'm looking about the same, I think.

36 week bumpdate!

{Insert a Joey Lawrence-style WHOA right here, please} I'm HUGE.

How far along? 36 weeks

Weight gain/loss: Still 142 lbs...same as last week. Up 24 lbs. total. I was up 30 at this point last pregnancy.

Feeling: Can I complain now? Tired, crampy, incontinent, BLAH. Just blah in general. But somehow? I'm not in a rush for this pregnancy to come to an end yet. I am very excited to meet her, but I'm not feeling mentally ready.

Maternity clothes? I'm sporting that awesome "tenting" look with most of my tops. In the photo above my hand is where it is because otherwise you'd see part of my belly. Why doesn't anyone make tops that will fit for the whole 9 months?!?

Sleep: I'm up to waking about 3 or 4 times a night to pee, so, uh, not well ;)

Food cravings: Back to McDonald's fries, once again!

Movement? I feel like she is bouncing on my bladder and cervix as I walk. Otherwise I'm not actually feeling her much. I think she is running out of space in there.

What I miss? Not needing help...for everything! Mike has to push me out of bed, off the couch, help me up out of the car, put away the heavy pots and pans, bring the laundry bags downstairs and back up, etc. I don't like being dependent upon him to do everything.

Best moment this week:  Sleeping in yesterday morning. It was only until 8:30 but it was GLORIOUS.

What I'm looking forward to: Getting all of Aurelia's things set up this week. We dug her clothes and gear out of the closets today, and are planning on putting it in its place this week or weekend.

Next Appointment: Thursday, September 6th at 37.5 weeks. Not sure why they scheduled it for 2 weeks out from last appointment, as they told me only 1 week should lapse between appointments from here on out...hmm....

Milestones: Baby is now about 18.5 inches and 6 lbs!

Since I realized I'm wearing the same shirt that I was in my 36 week update last time, I thought it would be fun to see the pics side by side. I'm a little bit closer to the mirror in the 1st photo, but I think on the whole they look really similar.

Check out the bellies and cute babies linked up with my 33 week post!

35 weeks down, just 35 days to go!

I just realized that with all of our vacation excitement, I neglected to take a bump pic or post a 34 week update. Oh well.

How far along? 35 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 142 lbs. When I got back from vacation I had gained 8, but now have somehow lost 2 despite eating almost an entire Funfetti cake last night and today. Up 24 lbs. total.

Feeling: HUGE. I am so slow moving and generally feel like I am carrying a bowling ball in my stomach on a daily basis. But? I'm happy and getting really excited to meet Aurelia. The nesting has begun...

Maternity clothes? I have outgrown most of my tops so I am living in my dresses from Seraphine Maternity (like the one above). They just came out with their Fall Collection and many of the styles make me {almost} wish I'd still be pregnant when it gets colder out! You can get 25% off of your order with code GGU25.

Sleep: My parents took Carina overnight last night so Mike and I slept for 9 straight hours and let me tell you it was amazing. The last time I slept that long was definitely pre-baby.

Food cravings: Funfetti cake with rainbow chip frosting. I satisfied that craving last night ;)

Movement? Lots of somersaults and swift kicks to my cervix lately.

What I miss? Not getting up to pee in the middle of the night. Lately it has been twice or three times. Sometimes I feel like I live in the bathroom.

Best moment this week:  Having a nice dinner out with Mike while my parents watched Carina. Somehow, though, we found ourselves talking about her the whole time!

What I'm looking forward to: More nesting. It began today with buying some fun things for Carina and storage units for her toys. It will continue this week with more organizing and cleaning. It makes me FEEL SO GOOD.

Next Appointment: Thursday, August 23rd at 35.5 weeks. Exactly one month from my due date...eek!

Milestones: Baby is packing on an extra layer of fat this week. I probably am, too ;)

For comparison's sake, my 35 week belly with Carina.

33 weeks & greetings from Virginia Beach!

Whew! Wow. I survived BlogHer and am now vacationing (aka napping and eating) in Virginia Beach with Mike's family. I have TONS to tell you about the conference but for now, Momma needs to rest!

Oh man. Starting to look bloated everywhere!

How far along? 33 weeks

Weight gain/loss: I don't know - no scale anywhere!

Feeling: Super uncomfortable and achy...probably due to the fact that I walked for miles around New York City. I know, I know; what was I thinking?

Maternity clothes? I can't believe how many compliments I received on my outfits from Seraphine Maternity while at BlogHer!

Sleep: Well, I didn't get much during the conference ;)  I plan to catch up this week.

Food cravings: Breakfast sandwiches. No idea where that one came from!

Movement? Baby girl was not a fan of the loud music at the Sparklecorn and CheeseburgHer parties at BlogHer. I could only stay for about a half hour before she made me leave by kicking me square in the bladder, ribs, stomach, etc.

What I miss? Being able to walk without a waddle lol

Best moment this week:  I can't pinpoint a specific moment at BlogHer that was the "best", just the conference on the whole! So many amazing women in one place.

What I'm looking forward to: VACATION!!! This will be my one and only post this week so I can kick back and enjoy the beach. I have a great line-up of guest posts coming your way, though. Or if you're new?  Please check out some of my old yet awesome posts.

Next Appointment: I don't even know. I'll figure it out when I get back from vacation.

Milestones: Baby's respiratory system is almost completely mature at this point.

I think my 33 week belly with Carina is pretty similar to this one. Giant, and basketball-like.

Holy crap I'm 32 weeks

Things just got real. If this baby is a little early like Carina was, I might only have 6 weeks and change before she is here. Umm...yikes?

How far along? 32 weeks

Weight gain/loss: Still 136 lbs. for a total gain of 18 lbs. I was up 25 lbs. this time last pregnancy.

Feeling: Winded. I am huffing and puffing when I drag the laundry up from the basement. Even bringing a couple bags of groceries inside has me tired. I should have exercised throughout this pregnancy. Oops.

Maternity clothes? I am obsessed with my new maternity wardrobe! I think I have narrowed down my outfit choice for my maternity photos next week to either #1 or #3. Please weigh in if you haven't yet! :)

Sleep: Every morning I wake up and curse myself for not getting to sleep sooner. I am dragging most days.

Food cravings: Despite making them last week, I am still craving Mozzarella Sticks. 

Movement? I swear, most of the time I just look down at my stomach and laugh. She has gotten herself (and her limbs) into such hilarious positions - I kind of look like a circus freak.

What I miss? Not having constant pain in my abdomen. I am so afraid my abdominal muscles are about to separate any day now :(

Best moment this week: My Mother-in-law visited for a couple days and it was so nice to get a small break from cooking and cleaning.

What I'm looking forward to: BlogHer on Thursday, and then a week at the beach with Mike's family! I've been so caught up with preparing for the conference I think I completely forgot to mention that I'll be in Virginia Beach for a whole week! CAN'T WAIT to be a beached whale.

Next Appointment: On Wednesday, August 1st at 32.5 weeks. Can't believe I'm nearing the home stretch.

Milestones: By the end of this week, baby will be about 4 lbs.

Just looking at my sweater from my 32 week photo last time is making me sweat. It's...too...hot right now.


Next week I'll pop in after my trek from BlogHer to Virginia Beach with Mike's family for my 33 week bumpdate, but then I'm pretty much off for the week! I hope you enjoy the great guest posters I've got lined up for you. I'll start a new bump/baby link up then, but for now please feel free to check out the last one!

31 week bumpdate!

I just keep on getting bigger and bigger, although I might actually look smaller than I did last week? ;)

How far along? 31 weeks

Weight gain/loss: Still 136 lbs. for a total gain of 18 lbs. so far.

Feeling: Huge. Baby girl must be going through a growth spurt. I'm feeling really bloated and full most of the time, and am having nightly Braxton Hicks contractions that aren't particularly comfortable or pleasant.

Maternity clothes? Can't wait to show you all of my new outfits from Seraphine Maternity later this week!

Sleep: It's getting harder and harder to get comfortable, which means it's taking longer and longer to fall asleep :(

Food cravings: Rainbow chip frosting. I may or may not have stooped so low as to eat it out of the can.

Movement? I've figured out her patterns. She sleeps mostly during the early morning through evening, and then is up kicking while I'm trying to go to sleep!

What I miss? Being able to bend down and get on the ground comfortably! Cleaning up Carina's toys has been particularly hard this week.

Best moment this week: Despite her tantrums, Carina has been super snuggly this week. One time she ran up to me saying, "Mommy Mommy Mommy!" and threw her little arms around me. I melted.

What I'm looking forward to: My Mother-in-law will be here from Tuesday through Thursday, just to give me a little break. She calls it an in-home vacation ;)

Next Appointment: August 1st at 32.5 weeks. My OB does 3 week appointments through this stretch.

Milestones: From here on out, baby will gain about a half pound a week! She's around 3.5 lbs. and 16 inches now.

Compared to my 31 week belly with Carina, I feel like I'm carrying lower this time, and more basketball-like. What say you?

Check out all the cute bellies and babies linked up with my 28 week bumpdate! It's still open if you'd like to link up your most recent one.

30 week bumpdate!

How far along? 30 weeks. I can't believe there are only 10 weeks until my due date.

Weight gain/loss: 136 lbs. Up 1 lb. from last week for a total of 18 lbs.

Feeling: I spoke too soon last week when I said I had a lot of energy. This week I have been SO tired. I could nap for hours and it still wouldn't be enough.
  
Maternity clothes? I just received my wardrobe for BlogHer from my wonderful clothing sponsor, Seraphine Maternity! I'll be modeling everything and asking you all for accessorizing advice next week. Can't wait! :)

Sleep: I'm having some difficulty falling asleep most of the time, but fortunately with Carina sleeping later it hasn't been that big of a deal.

Food cravings: Chocolate cake. My sister-in-law made me one from scratch on Saturday night and I think I've eaten half of it so far ;)

Movement? Little Miss Aurelia is quite active...all the time.

What I miss? Hot dogs. It might sound gross, but I've been known to down 2 or 3 in a sitting. I'm trying to keep it to 1 a week (or fewer) now, don't want to inundate poor baby with nitrates.

Best moment this week: Spending time with my sister-in-law Ellen and her friend Jun! I love them both so much and they are great with Carina. It made for a nice relaxing weekend for me (they cooked and cleaned all weekend!)

What I'm looking forward to: BlogHer! It's getting so close. Now that I've weaned Carina I've feeling much better about leaving her for the first time.

Next Appointment: August 1st at 32.5 weeks. Less than 3 weeks away!

Milestones: Baby's fingers and toes are finished growing! And her brain is beginning to wrinkle and

I feel like I look so much bigger than I did at 30 weeks with Carina. Do you agree, or is it all in my head?


Check out all the cute babies and bellies that linked up two weeks ago! This is the same linky; so if' you've already linked up, no need to do it again. If you have a new update post, though, go for it!

29 week bumpdate!

How far along? 29 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 135 lbs. Up 3 lbs. from last week for a total of 17 lbs. Here it comes!

Feeling: Except for some random cramping that had me a bit worried on the 4th of July, feeling great! I have more energy than I've had in a while.

Maternity clothes? This dress I'm wearing? It's not maternity, and it's one of the tiniest I own. I have no idea what made me think to try it on, but I think it works and has been a very welcome wardrobe addition since it became hot as balls out.

Sleep: Carina slept until 8 AM (YES! EIGHT!) on Saturday, and has been close to that a handful of other times this week. Maybe her erratic early waking is over? Translation: Momma has gotten some sleep, too ;)

Food cravings: Popcorn chicken. I fried some up last night.

Movement? Constantly. I'm starting to wonder if she ever sleeps.

What I miss? Rum & Coke. My sister was pounding them enjoyed a few this weekend and I was a bit jealous.

Best moment this week: Visiting my sister, brother-in-law, niece and nephew! Carina always has such a great time playing with them and it made for a nice, chaotic weekend ;)  Photos to come later this week.

What I'm looking forward to: Mike's sister is coming to visit this weekend! What I'm not looking forward to? Carina's nutritionist appointment on Thursday. That reminds me, I should probably resume her calorie counting today...

Next Appointment: July 11th at 29.5 weeks. Eager to hear that precious heartbeat again.

Milestones: Baby is about 2.5 lbs. and 15 inches long! And her brain can now control her breathing and body temperature.

Up for a fun comparison? My 29 week belly with Carina.


Check out all the cute bellies and babies linked up with my bumpdate last week! It's still open if you'd like to link up your most recent one.

28 week bumpdate!

How far along? 28 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 132 lbs. Up 2 lbs. from last week for a total of 14 lbs. At 28 weeks with Carina I was already up by 20 lbs!

Feeling: Still really tired in general. Even a short walk down the block can render me winded...

Maternity clothes? I'm wearing a dress almost every day now. When it's in the high 80's or 90's I would rather poke my eyes out than try to squeeze into jeans.

Sleep: I think we need to invest in some room darkening shades for Carina, because her waking up before 6 AM every morning is not meshing well with my need to sleep {much} longer than that.

Food cravings: Pizza. I could probably eat it every day right now.

Movement? It is amazing the difference that an anterior placenta can make. With this pregnancy I feel everything. Last time? Sure I felt kicks here and there and some somersaults, but it was nothing like this.

What I miss? Being able to get on the floor and wrestle with Carina.

Best moment this week: Seeing some of my college friends whom I hadn't seen since our wedding 3 years ago. It had been way too long. It's so nice to be back on the East Coast, within driving distance. Oh! And I passed the glucose test with flying colors, which was a very welcome surprise. I failed with Carina and had to take the 3 hour (which I did pass). So glad I didn't have a repeat of that!

What I'm looking forward to: Staying with my sister and Carina's cousins in Massachusetts this weekend! Since we saw them in Cape Cod last month Carina has been asking for her cousins non-stop, so we're going to have a weekend long play date. Yep, we've been doing a lot of traveling lately. Trying to get it in before the baby arrives, since we won't be quite as mobile then ;)

Next Appointment: next OB appointment on July 11th at 29.5 weeks.

Milestones: Baby has begun having REM, and can now blink.


At 28 weeks with Carina. It's really amazing how some weeks there seem to be big differences in the size of my belly, but other weeks not so much. This week I feel like I look significantly bigger this time around.

Have you posted a bumpdate and/or a monthly/periodic baby update recently? Link up your post(s)! I am eager to stalk your pregnancy progress and cute babies. I'll have this linky as part of my bumpdates about once a month.

27 week bumpdate & our newest family member!

3rd Trimester is here. Commence freakout.

I didn't do it on purpose, but just realized I wore this same shirt for my 27 week update with Carina!


How far along? 27 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 130 lbs. Down 1 lb. from last week? This up and down is crazy. Up 12 total.

Feeling: Generally okay, except for fatigue. I am fighting to stay awake some afternoons when Carina refuses to nap.

Maternity clothes? I am in love with all of my maternity dresses and skirts. Summer clothes are just SO much more comfy than constricting pants and sweaters.

Sleep: I'm having trouble falling asleep, and staying asleep. I've been waking around 5 AM some mornings and for the life of me can't go back to sleep.

Food cravings: Tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad. And I had one for dinner yesterday and it was divine.

Movement? Little girl is certainly enjoying somersaulting these days!

What I miss? Rum & coke. And Bailey's. And wine. And uggh...

Best moment this week: Getting Mike his belated Father's Day present - a grill. He has wanted one for years but we were never allowed to have one in our previous apartment buildings. I saved up for months to get him the fancy one he wanted. I haven't had to cook since we bought it on Saturday afternoon. I call this a win-win ;)

Our newest family member!

What I'm looking forward to: Heading down to Philly again this weekend for my friend's wedding! I am so excited to see my friends from college; many of them I haven't seen since my own wedding back in 2009. It's been way too long.

Next Appointment: next OB appointment on July 11th at 29.5 weeks. My gestational diabetes screen is Wednesday ::gulp::

Milestones: Baby is about 2 lbs. now! I think hitting 3rd Tri is a pretty awesome milestone, too.


P.S. How many of you post weekly pregnancy updates on your blog, too? I'm wondering if a once-a-month (or so) linky might be a fun idea. I love seeing your bump pics, reading what names you've chosen, etc. Please comment and let me know if you would participate!

26 week bumpdate!

I sort of skipped last week's bumpdate since I was out of town. I did post a pic, though! We are finally back from vacation and to be honest I'm a little sad. There is nothing like being able to relax at the beach or just spend some quality time with your family. And? Having multiple other pairs of hands to pass the baby off too is pretty awesome ;)

How far along? 26 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 131 lbs. Up 13 total.

Feeling: Tired and sick to my stomach. Not due to morning sickness or anything, but rather to the fact that she loves to somersault over and over, especially when we're stuck in stop-and-go traffic. I had an anterior placenta with Carina, and that insulated the blow of all of her tiny kicks quite nicely. This time? Not so much.

Maternity clothes? Yes, and I'm starting to grow out of some of the smaller T-shirts I have. Belly is just getting too big.

Sleep: Can we skip this one? Not good. Tossing and turning all night, and Carina has been fussing/crying out in her sleep which of course wakes me up. I'm just exhausted most of the time.

Food cravings: Chocolate. Along those lines? Stay tuned later this afternoon... ;)

Movement? Refer to "Feeling", above, as I try really hard not to lose my breakfast.

What I miss? I officially can no longer carry Carina. I can pick her up and put her down quickly, but I can't carry her around with me. Sad panda.

Best moment this week: Seeing both of our families! Beach, seafood, friends, fun...couldn't ask for anything more.

What I'm looking forward to: Picking out a grill with Mike this weekend! It's his belated Father's Day present. Any recommendations? We're thinking gas.

Next Appointment: next OB appointment on July 12th but silly me double booked for the same time as Carina's nutritionist appointment. Guess I'll have to reschedule. I also have the lovely gestational diabetes screen next week. Please cross your fingers that I pass? I failed the 1 hour last time and really don't want to have to do both again.

Milestones: Baby's eyes are fully developed this week.


Around 25 / 26 weeks with Carina was around the time when people said I "popped". I think I've been "popped" for quite some time this pregnancy ;)

24 weeks! Yay viability!

Yep: pajamas this time. Me lazy.

How far along? 24 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 128 lbs. Down 1 lb. this week, up 10 total. Not sure why it is fluctuating so much lately.

Feeling: Pretty good except for when she is having a party in there. I swear almost every night it feels like there is a boxing octopus in my uterus.

Maternity clothes? At this point, I feel like it's a rhetorical question. Of course!

Sleep: Waking up a couple times at night to go to the bathroom now, but fortunately I'm not having any issues getting back to sleep.

Food cravings: Anything fried. Mozzarella sticks, french fries, shrimp, chicken...anything. So long as it's covered in breaded goodness and deep fried I want it. Am I alone in this? Does any pregnant woman not yearn for fried food on a daily basis?

Movement? There's a nightly party in there, I swear.

What I miss? Being able to carry Carina without becoming out of breath quickly. Lifting 20 lbs. isn't as easy as it used to be.

Best moment this week: The Renaissance Faire! We had such a great time and I ate lots of fried food... ;)

What I'm looking forward to: Heading down to Cape Cod for a long weekend on Friday. Can't wait to spend a few days as a beached whale.

Next Appointment: next OB appointment on June 13th. Wish we didn't have to cut our long weekend short to get back in time for it, but my OB is leaving for Africa for a month (whoa?)

Milestones: Baby is officially considered viable. But please, little one, cook for much much longer.


At 24 weeks with Carina. I think my bump looked a little cuter last time. It definitely seems bigger in today's photo.

23 weeks! - bumpdate

Whoa, why am I super orange today?

How far along? 23 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 129 lbs. Up 2 lbs. this week, up 11 total.

Feeling: Still tired most of the time and sciatica-y. Where's my 2nd Trimester energy? ;)

Maternity clothes? Yes! And I'm loving wearing dresses and skirts this time around. So much better than sweaters and pants all the time.

Sleep: I'm having trouble falling asleep at night, which is really new for me. I'm usually out like a light. Is there anything that helps you get to sleep when you're having difficulty?

Food cravings: Chocolate chip cookies. My sister just sent me my favorite childhood recipe and I made some this weekend. I'll have to post it soon!

Movement? Mostly right before I go to sleep, but I do feel her here and there throughout the day.

What I miss? Wine. I may or may not have had a tiny glass while Mike's family was here visiting this weekend ;)

Best moment this week: Spending time with Mike's family. Carina had so much fun playing with them, and they were a world of help. They wouldn't let either of us lift a finger while they were here. So thankful.

What I'm looking forward to: Heading down to Cape Cod with my family in two weeks! Can't wait to spend a long weekend at the beach.

Next Appointment: next OB appointment on June 13th.

Milestones: Baby now weighs about 1 pound!


At 23 weeks with Carina. What's funny? I was wearing this dress today and almost took my picture in it! I should have. Oh well.

22 week bumpdate

How far along? 22 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 127 lbs. Which means I lost a pound in the last week? Not sure how that happened with all of the Nutella I've been eating! Up 9 lbs. total.

Feeling: Exhausted and achy. The sciatica has picked up again, unfortunately. I think baby girl has wedged herself right on a nerve that shoots down to my left butt check :(

Maternity clothes? Having a bump in the summer is so much more fun than the winter! I am loving my new tops and dresses. More to come on this top - my new favorite - later this week.

Sleep: I'm consistently getting 8 hours a night and I am so thankful.

Food cravings: Nutella: I've eaten an entire jar in a week. That's probably a bad thing. I'm running out of things to spread it on, too. White bread, graham crackers, I even tried marshmallows...

Movement? More and more! Sometimes it feels like there's an octopus in there; I just don't know how she can punch and kick so many different places at once. An ultrasound would have shown if she had extra legs, right? ;)

What I miss? Sleeping on my right side and back. I am used to tossing and turning all night and staying put is unsatisfying.

Best moment this week: Stumbling across a gelato place just 2 blocks from our house that we thought was closed for remodeling! I had some amazing chocolate concoction and Mike had hazelnut and coconut (interesting combination, I know).

What I'm looking forward to: Mike's family is coming to next weekend! So excited to see them and have a few extra hands with Carina ;)

Next Appointment: OB appointment on June 13th. I can't believe it's only a matter of time before I'll have biweekly appointments.

Milestones: You can now see and feel her kick from the outside! Mike can't get enough of it.


At 22 weeks with Carina. Almost identical bumps, don't you think?

21 week bumpdate

Boo. It didn't look blurry on the camera. Sorry.

 How far along? 21 weeks

Weight gain/loss: 128 lbs. Up 6 lbs. from last week! Yikes! Maybe I'm finally getting enough to eat? 10 lbs. total.

Feeling: Big and bulky. Walking around for a long period of time isn't easy anymore; I felt like I was waddling most of the weekend. And in the wake of it? My feet are killing me.

Maternity clothes? I am in love with my brand new things! From my swimsuit which I posted about yesterday, to an adorable nursing/maternity top I'll be showing you later this week, and a maternity dress I'll be sharing later in the month.

Sleep: Carina has been waking up earlier and earlier. Fortunately she'll go back to sleep after we bring her in bed with us, but these 3-5 AM wake ups are really hard.

Food cravings: Chips and French onion dip. About to break into some right now. Who cares that it's only 10 AM? ;)

Movement? I feel her kicking here and there. It's been sporadic lately. Maybe my 6 lb. uptake from last week coincided with a giant uterus growth spurt and she's got some extra room in there? Ha, who knows.

What I miss? Summer Shandy. It's been too long, old friend.

Best moment this week: Spending Mother's Day weekend away and going to one of my favorite places, Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts. We had such a fantastic time, except for our car battery dying at the hotel...blech.

What I'm looking forward to: Mike's family is coming to visit in two weeks! They still haven't been to our new place.

Next Appointment: OB appointment on May 18th.

Milestones: Baby's bone marrow is now making blood cells, yay!


At 21 weeks with Carina. I think I've pretty much caught up, weight-wise.

Half baked bumpdate!

How far along? 20 weeks - half way to my due date!

Weight gain/loss: 122 lbs. Up 1 lb. from last week, up 4 lbs. total. I feel huge, though.

Feeling: I finally have some energy! I think getting out all weekend really helped

Maternity clothes? Some of my t-shirts are ALREADY starting to do that peek-a-boo belly thing. At 20 weeks. Yikes.

Sleep: It's really hard for me to always sleep on my left side. As a result I am getting a tad uncomfortable at this point. Long way to go, Mama G, I know, I know...

Food cravings: Salads with tomatoes, cucumbers, romaine lettuce, mozzarella cheese, and Ken's Steak House Zesty Italian dressing. No other dressing...or I'll cut you ;)

Movement? Aurelia is active in spurts. I won't feel her for a while, and them BOOM BOOM BOOM.

What I miss? Once again, Rum & Coke. My sister brought some and had {quite} a few. I was a sad panda.

Best moment this week: My sister and her family coming to visit! We had such a great time. I love watching Carina with her cousins.

What I'm looking forward to: Mother's Day next weekend. We'll be heading to one of my favorite places ever! More to come after it happens ;)

Next Appointment: OB appointment on May 18th.

Milestones: Half baked, baby!

20 weeks with Carina! This bump puts that one to SHAME.