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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

24 Weeks

Another week down which means another week closer to meeting our princesses.  I can't believe we are at the 24 week mark already.  That means 16 more weeks if this was a singleton pregnancy, but more likely 12 to 14 weeks left.  Time is surely flying.

I already posted a bump picture yesterday, and I won't have any new ones until this weekend because it is getting too dark to take them when I get home and I am being lazy.  But I will try to get another one, even though the Halloween picture is from Saturday night.

How far along: 24 weeks
Babies are the size of a: Cantaloupe/Eggplant
Babies are: The babies are looking more and more like newborn babies.  Their skin is gradually becoming more opaque and their bodies are starting to fill out more as they plump up.  Their brains are growing more rapidly along with their taste buds.  Their lungs are also developing more in preparation of taking their first breath outside of mommy's belly.  All of the baby sites say babies are just over a pound and around 12 inches long, but we know they are already way bigger than that as they measured about that size a couple weeks ago.  Grow babies, grow.
Maternity Clothes: Still a mix of maternity and non-maternity clothes.  But my dress slacks came in the mail and they fit good enough.  They aren't my normal fit, but they will do.
Stretch Marks:So far so good.  I hope I don't get any.
Sleep: Pretty good.  I have been sleeping better since I got adjusted at the chiropractor on Monday.  What a relief that has been.  Now if I could only get my pup on my sleep schedule, we would get more rest.
Symptoms: Backaches, swollen feet and overall exhausted.
Best Moment of the Week:  Going to Apple Hill with my family and family friends.  Even though I overdid it for the week, it was still the best trip.  Apple donuts, apple pie, apples, crafts and family.  I would call that a big win for the week.
Movement: Babies are moving and shaking in there.  They love to kick mommy when she is trying to sleep.  They are growing so big which means I feel the kicks everywhere, but I absolutely love it.
Cravings: Fruit, pizza, ice cream. 

Gender: Two precious baby girls.
Belly Button In or Out: In half way. 

Wedding Ring on or Off: On.
Anything Making You Queasy or Sick: Nothing right now.
What I Miss: Being able to workout, being a busy body and not relying on everyone for everything.  I am such a control freak that this part is been a bit hard for me.  But I was told to enjoy it, so I am trying to let people spoil me.
What I am Looking Forward to: Decorating the nursery even more, finishing the mobiles, going to watch the Wolf Pack this weekend and the Fall storm that is expected this weekend.
Labor Signs: We have some Braxton Hicks contractions going on, but no signs of labor.  Thank the heavens for that.
Nursery: We have painted the room and we are setting up the cribs this weekend (well my husband is and I will just manage the project).
Emotions: This week has been a bit rough as I overdid it in all aspects of life, but I am starting to take it easy, put my feet up and take care of these girls.  Next up, the awful glucose test this Friday or Saturday.  Please oh please let me pass and not have to go to the three hour one.  And please give me some good news as this momma has been a bit scared all week.


Tuesday, October 28, 2014

A Blow to My Ego

Wow, I will once again dust off this blog and write.  But get ready because this post isn't all sugar, lollipops and butterflies.  This is post is real...my frustrated thoughts and tears.

I keep pretending everything is fine, even perfect.  I have had the perfect pregnancy....wrong.  I have the perfect little pregnant body....wrong.  I have been good to myself....wrong.  Everything I have been doing has amounted to me not "properly" taking care of my precious baby girls.

I have went about my life for the last six months as if I didn't need to change much.  Sure, I take more vitamins, drink more water (still not enough), eat a bit more (can we say too many sweets?), take it "easier", but in reality, I just kept chugging along as if I am superwoman.

Well yesterday, my doctors proved me wrong.  They were kind to me in telling me what was going on, but being pregnant/hormonal all of that kindness went out the door and I felt attacked.  To the point of tears.  Even tears right now as I write this and I have surely cried it out to my mom, dad, sister and husband in the last 24 hours.

I knew two things going into my appointments yesterday.  I may have gained a bit more weight this month then before (dang you scales in the fancy Wynn resort last week) and I overdid it this weekend (everything hurt...especially down there).  But what I didn't realize was the wrath that was to be had.

Here is a breakdown of my appointments:

1 pm - Perinatal appointment.  I laid down and waited for my ultrasound to start.  Great news...there is still more fluid than we want, but it was the same (or very close to) in both sacs so that means the girls are doing great and are not being affected by the excess amniotic fluid.  They were both moving a ton and looked perfect.  Great news again.

Then my doctor asked about contractions (Braxton Hicks).  I told him I have felt them, but not that often.  He said it was time for my first contraction monitoring and cervical check, but not to worry.  Well I had that thing hooked up for maybe 5 or 10 minutes max (I was daydreaming about my princesses) and this was the result.
Pretty consistent contractions (lasting 30 seconds)

He wasn't super concerned as my cervical check showed my cervix is still really long and thick (ie not in preparation of birth).  He told me I needed to take it easy, but talk to my OB (which I had an appt right after) and he would do the same.

2 pm - OB appointment.  Apparently in the 15 to 20 minutes between my appointments and the time I was seen, my OB and Perinatal docs had a talk.

First off, I am embarrassed to say this but I gained 9 lbs (yes you read that right, 9 lbs) in one month.  the total weight gain in 24 weeks is under the recommended for this stage of twin pregnancy, but that much gain isn't good for me, the babies or my back.  I have to cut down on the sweets, not have my daily protein shake and watch my portions (something tastes good, and I overeat it, even though I eat less now than when I wasn't pregnant).  Ok so sweets have gotten out of hand, but I can cut down on them.  And be healthier.  Got it.

Second, my doctor was pissed that I went to Vegas for work last week.  To the point, he cut me off from traveling anymore and wants me to work from home.  I told him I just overdid it this weekend with a Halloween party (where I stood for almost 3 hours talking to people and went to Apple Hill Sunday where I walked and stood all day.  I knew I overdid it.  I was tired, my body ached and knew I couldn't do that again.
 Juno and Bleeker

But he still wasn't happy with me because those contractions were too consistent.  He wants me to start maternity leave Monday.  I can't fathom 3 more months of sitting at home with no interaction.  He told me the girls are viable at 24 weeks, but with complications and I am not being good to them.  He told me my left leg/ankle is super swollen and indicative of overdoing it.  Got it, feet up.  He told me that if I don't slow down to the point of almost being lazy (in my opinion lazy as in slower walks, sitting down all the time, and resting being a couch potato), these girls will either come early and don't have as good of a chance of surviving or being in the NICU for a long time or I will be in the hospital on mandatory bed rest and it will be awful and costly.

Duly noted doctors, but it sent me into full on panic, stressed and upset mode.  I feel horrible that I am not doing things right for these girls.  I know I need to slow down and I know it is hard for me to do that, but I HAVE TO.  I am going to work part time from the office and part from home (home on the days I feel tired/sore/needing rest).  I am going to let my husband do more stuff for me, I am going to let others cook and clean for me (even though I am a control freak), and I will put my feet up and rest more for these girls because they are beyond worth it.

I guess my feelings are hurt, I am mad at myself and praying that I don't go into labor anytime soon with how irresponsible I have been to these girls.

Anyone have any tips or been in a similar situation?
Friday, October 17, 2014

Oh Hey Friday + Thank Heaven for the Giants

It is Friday, I am out of town for work next week (Vegas) and the Giants are going to the World Series again!  Life is good.  I am pretty much on cloud nine after last night's Giants game.  It was a very exciting last two innings with the best outcome.  Get ready Royals, we are coming for you.  Love, The Giants.

I smell a three-repeat (World Series win that is).  Giants won the 2010, 2012 and hopefully the 2014 World Series.  Super pumped today.  Can't you tell?  My husband says the sass is at an all time high today.

Per usual it is link up day with Oh Hey, Friday over at September Farm.  This week I am going with another set of randoms.

One.  The Giants.  I know I already said it, but those last couple innings were amazing.  A pinch hit home run and a three run home run by Ishikawa.  Pure amazingness.  I bet the Cardinals are really regretting taking Wainwright out last night.  I am happy they did, but I bet he is mad.  The Giants couldn't hit anything off of him from the fourth inning and on.  I know what I will be doing Tuesday at 5:07 pm (PST)...watching the Giants from the coziness of some bar/restaurant in Vegas.  I will be watching the Giants there on Wednesday too.  I.CAN.NOT.WAIT.

Two.  We are working on the girls room this weekend.  Cue the excited high pitched screams from me.  We picked our color, now we just need to buy the paint for it (later today).  Tomorrow we shall paint the girls room (two walls) and watch college football.  My in-laws bought our sweet girls their cribs and mattresses which should be here next week, so we want to get started on this room.  I hope to have some of it done before my baby shower in November.  I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going.  Oh and I need more ribbon to finish their mobiles.  They are beyond adorable and I can't wait to share them with you all.

Three.  My husband and I are going to dress up for Halloween this year.  We have a party to attend next Saturday and are actually dressing up.  I always want to dress up, but my husband, not so much.  I came up with a couples costume I saw everywhere on Pinterest (ya we are very original) and we bought all the gear two days ago.  I didn't need much, but my husband did.  Thanks to Amazon we got what we need.  Care to take any guesses on the popular couple costume we chose?
 Hint, it is nothing like this outfit from 2008

Four.  I still want your opinions before my hair appointment today.  Should I cut my hair into a lob or leave it alone with a trim?  This pregnant gal can't make any decisions.  Refresher on what I want is here and here are a few new inspiration pics.
What do you all think?  images via

Five.  The Fall weather is finally here.  That means gorgeous sunrises/sunsets, crisp mornings, pumpkin EVERYTHING, boots, sweaters, scarfs, leggings, comfy socks, hats, etc.  I love FALL.  I can't stop talking about our trip to Apple Hill next weekend.  I need all the apples I can get for my daily apple/almond butter snack, pies, apple crisp, apple donuts, caramel apples, crafts and basically apple everything.  We have a family tradition and I can't wait to see all of our family friends.  Plus it will be the babies first time there.  I can't wait for next Sunday!

What do you have in store for this weekend?

Now you should over to September Farm to join in on the link up fun.  You know you want to.
Thursday, October 16, 2014

To Cut Or Not to Cut and 22 Weeks!

I know I am a day late on this bump/pregnancy update, but I had to get my weekend recap out yesterday. So you get the bump update with details on my perinatal appointment yesterday.

But first I wanted to ask your opinion on something that has been bothering me.  My hair.  Everyone says pregnancy brings long gorgeous locks of hair and my hair looks like a mess.  My doctor said it is from the babies taking most of the vitamins and nutrients that it leaves me with the small amount.  That is also why my gums bleed when I brush my teeth, I get some acne, red splotches on my face and shoulders, etc.  So basically my hair falls out twice as much as normal when I brush/blow dry my hair, looks like straw and just blah.  I am over it.

I have been looking around at something I can do at my hair appointment tomorrow, but I know dyeing the whole head isn't an option, more down the lines of a cut.  I think (because sometimes pregnant women are irrational, gasp) I want to cut it, but I have been growing it out for so long.  I love some of the Fall looks out there and want it, but fear I would be upset later on that I cut my precious locks.  But then again, I haven't changed my hair in over a year (I got a sort of changed hair cut after our wedding).

My hair looks great after getting ready in the morning, but then flattens out to stick to my head (even if I brush it), looks stringy and overall just not what I want.  So I have found a few pictures of the style I am liking right now.  The Long Bob, or lob for short.  I like that it is still long enough, can be put in a ponytail and will get rid of my awful dead ends.  But will I miss this hair I have been growing out for over a year?

So this is where you all come in.  I need your opinion.  My husband doesn't want to tell me one way or another because he doesn't want me to blame him if it is the wrong choice and it is women's hair.  He said men shouldn't comment or make decisions on something as special to a woman as their hair.  So what do you think?
Left: Front  Right: Back
The Lob

So what do you ladies think?  Cut it, keep it, get a major trim, something completely different?  I need your opinions, so please fire away.

Now onto the babies...Last appointment we were told there was a bit too much amniotic fluid surrounding the babies.  So it has been two and a half weeks and this is the latest update on the babies.

So update on the babies.  They are growing and looking great.  Baby A weighs 1 pound 3 ounces and Baby B weighs 1 pound 2 ounces.  There is still a lot of fluid, but not enough for a major concern.  I still have to go to the perinatal every two weeks to monitor their growth, monitor the fluid and make sure one isn't stealing from the other.  They had a 4% growth difference which is great.  It needs to be under 20%.  Baby A had a bit more fluid, but nothing to be concerned about.  So it was a successful appointment.  Plus I realized I am having contractions, but painless and not that often.  And this is common.  I didn't know what to feel and low and behold I had one at my appointment, so my doctor could point it out.  Now to just monitor myself and the babies.


How far along: 22 weeks, 1 day
Babies are the size of a: Ear of corn/Spaghetti Squash.
Babies are: The babies are starting to look like miniature newborns now.  Their lips, eyelids and  eyebrows are becoming more distinctive and their tiny tooth buds are starting to form under their gums.  Their eyes have formed, but there is no distinctive color to them yet.  Will they be blue, green, blue/green or brown? 

Babies are around 11 inches and 1 pound each.  My how they have grown.  Now it is time for the babies to pack on the fat and get all cute and develop those baby rolls.  Babies are sleeping about 12 to 14 hours per day and when they aren't, they are kicking away in mommy's belly.
Maternity Clothes: Mostly maternity and still some shirts (and a pair of dress pants) non-maternity.  But I am not so patiently waiting for my new dress pants to come in the mail today/tomorrow so I can be comfortable at work.
Stretch Marks: None and they better stay away, though my belly has been itching more and I fear the stretch marks.  I can't get enough lotion/body butter.
Sleep: Pretty good.  I slept in everyday on vacation and it felt amazing.   But now we are back to the daily grind which means less sleep.  Though the pee breaks are down to two a night.
Symptoms: Backaches, sneezing and tired.  I can tell I am growing more and more because I need those back and feet rubs like no one's business.
Best Moment of the Week:  Watching our cousin marry his best friend and spending time with family.  Oh and my brother and sister in law move to the West Coast this week!
Movement: These babies went from none to moving like crazy.  They love to dance in momma's belly and my husband finally felt them move on the airplane.  Big ole thumps and he loved it.
Cravings: Fruit, pizza, ice cream.  Same as always.  And lots of ice cream this week was had.
Gender: Two precious baby girls.
Belly Button In or Out: In half way.  My belly button looks funny.  Plain and simple.
Wedding Ring on or Off: On.
Anything Making You Queasy or Sick: Nothing right now.
What I Miss: Alcohol.  Lots of yummy drinks were had by all my family and friends this weekend.  Not that I was jealous or anything, hahaha.
What I am Looking Forward to: Painting the girls room this weekend and decorating more.
Labor Signs: Not even close.
Nursery: I need to finish the mobiles, pick the color for the room (down to three) and paint this weekend.
Emotions:I am feeling really good right now.  Haven't had any big emotional cries lately.  I cried a bit at the wedding, during some speeches and while watching The Lone Survivor on the airplane, but other than that, all happy momma here.


Can you believe we are already half way through and time is flying by.  The doctor hopes to have me delivered by 37 or 38 weeks, so that means only 15 or 16 weeks left.  So crazy.   Bake in there as long as you can babies.  Momma wants to wait to see you until end of January or beginning of February.  Thank you.
The Grits Blog - Little Friday Linkup
Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Wedding Weekend in Avalon

We are back from our amazing trip back East, but ever so tired from it.  That is why I took Monday and Tuesday off from blogging.  I have a bump update and weekend recap coming at you today and tomorrow.

Thursday we flew to Philadelphia, PA and then drove the hour and a half to Avalon, NJ.  That place is beautiful in the fall and I am sure it is beautiful all year long.  Thursday evening we were greeted with a bbq at the house we were staying at.  There was 12, sometimes 14 people staying at this huge three story house there.  So much fun.

Friday we knew it was supposed to rain, so we got out to the beach early to take a walk down to another beach town (Stone Harbor) and collect some seashells and take in the sights.
So beautiful and right before the storm rolled in.

We went into Stone Harbor for some lunch and ice cream at the most amazing place.  If you are ever in Avalon, NJ you must go to Springer's Ice Cream.  I got the Springer Chip and never turned back.  Coffee ice cream with chocolate chips, except they weren't really chips but more like brownie or chocolate bites.  Heaven.  

We bought the babies something cute from a little boutique store there and walked back to the house.

It was rehearsal dinner time, so we made our way to Carmen's Seafood Restaurant.
The beautiful bride and myself (don't worry that is sparkling water in a pretty glass)
My handsome brother in law, myself and my handsome hubby

Let me tell you dinner was amazing.  We had the choice of 6 entrees that came with a crab cream soup and a salad.  Any guesses on what I got?
This guy!
Check out how big his claw was.  So good.

It came to dessert time and guess what dessert was?  Springer's Ice Cream.  Guess who got Springer Chip again?  This girl.  But I did sample the other flavors.  This ice cream is the most creamy heavenly stuff ever.

Saturday was a lazy day since it had been raining all day since Friday afternoon.  We ventured back to Stone Harbor for lunch after a pastry filled breakfast.  We went to Yvette's Cafe and Bistro for some sandwiches.  I got the fresh mozzarella with tomatoes, avocado and olive oil on a fresh baked french roll.

We walked around some more and stopped in Springer's once again.  We couldn't pass it up.  We took care of some other errands, headed back to the house to get ready and head off to the wedding.  Now I don't have a ton of photos of the wedding, but we took a bunch with family that are on the professional photographers cameras plus some relatives, so we are waiting on those.  But let me tell you, it was gorgeous and so much fun.

The ceremony was at St. Johns by the Sea and the reception was at the Windrift. 
The beautiful couple
Not our place settings, but the favor was homemade jam which we tried the next day at the day after brunch.  So good.

We danced our butts off, including myself.  I took it easy with the babies and even invented a new dance with them.  We ate a ton of food, had cake, drank a bunch of sparkling water (beer, wine and liquor or everyone else) and had an amazing time.

Sunday was brunch at the bride's parents house.  Quiches galore, croissants and homemade jam, fruit salad, other salads, coffee, and drinks.  Yum.  Here is part of the clan.

After brunch, we took advantage of the nice weather and walked the beach again.
Check out how big the bump is getting!

And as we did before, we headed into Stone Harbor (a little over a mile walk) and had pizza at Seven Mile Pies.  And you guessed it again, we got Springer's Ice Cream to send us off.  Perfect for our walk back to the house.  Sunday evening was spent watching football and baseball (Go Giants), having family over and cooking a big Italian meal (ok I watched and hung out) and reminiscing with the newlyweds.

Sadly, Monday it was time to head back home.  We had one last big breakfast and made our way to Philadelphia.  Good news is, we made it home.  Bad news was there was huge delays (one hour in Philadelphia and 3 1/2 hrs in Chicago) that pushed back our flights big time.  We made it home at 9:30 when we were supposed to get in at 5:30.  That meant less cuddle time with our dude, Walter and a very sleepy Tuesday.  Hence why I never blogged yesterday.

I can't wait to head back to Avalon.  Such a fun weekend.
 
 
Friday, October 10, 2014

Oh Hey Friday! How I Missed You.

Oh Hey Friday.  I haven't participated in one of these in weeks and I missed it.  I love linking up with so many amazing bloggers...especially my favorite, Karli.

This week, I thought I would post the five things that I miss the most while being pregnant.

One.  WINE.  Or any alcohol for that fact.  It only hits me when I have dinner with my girlfriends, we make pasta at home, we go to a tailgate, we watch a football game or at a party/event.  So basically I am saying most of the time.  Ok it's not that bad, but I feel like I am not one of the cool kids anymore and can't wait for wine nights with my girlfriends again.
  via

Two.  Sushi.  I may have had sushi twice since being pregnant...may have, and I don't regret it.  But I am talking about the full fledged menu of anything and everything I can possibly eat.  I miss eating the tuna rolls and it seems like every roll has tuna in it.  Now I am a big time salmon fan, but most of my favorite rolls have a combo of both.  I get so jealous and give my husband the stink eye when he has a roll that I want so badly.  Enjoy it buddy.
 via

Three.  Running.  I find this such a funny thing to miss while being pregnant, but I really miss it.  I miss working out hard.  I miss my spin class.  I miss the weights, stairs, working my booty off and just getting a good sweat in that doesn't come from a walk to the mailbox (kidding, kind of).  I was able to run for about 10 weeks of my pregnancy and then things got really hard (that's what she said).  It was harder to breathe and maintain my daily run.  So I cut it down.  Then we found out we were having twins and I had to modify my workouts.  So I did, and they have been cut down to now walking, swimming, some yoga at home and a bit of weights.  Ugh.  So I walk and walk everyday, but it isn't the same.  I loved working out because it was my stress release, I felt really good about myself and I loved a good sweat.  You better bet your butt I will be back in that gym as soon as the doctor clears me.

Four.  Feeling sexy and clothes that fit.  Now don't get me wrong, I love being pregnant and wearing really comfy clothes without caring too much, but I miss wearing my heels, jeans, sexy tops, hot dresses and basically anything without spandex in it.  But it really comes down to the shoes for me lately.  Thank goodness it is getting to be cooler fall weather so I can bust out my boots because high heels kill my feet.  Pregnancy = swollen feet = extremely uncomfortable days in heels.  How in the world do celebrities wear heels while being pregnant?
  via

Five.  Sleep.  I do sleep quite a bit more since becoming pregnant, but it is pretty random.  With all the trips to the bathroom each night, I just want an uninterrupted nights rest.  And to be able to sleep on a airplane again.  I used to be able to pass out within minutes of take off.  Now I am so uncomfortable sleep is a thing of the past.  And I know it is only going to get worse.

Ok enough of the Debbie Downer stuff because I do love my bump, the babies kicking and the little miracles growing inside of me.  I really do feel blessed to be in the position that I am.

Wanna join in on the link up fun?  I know you do.
Thursday, October 9, 2014

You Know You're Pregnant When...

I was on babycenter.com yesterday and found a post about, "You know you are pregnant when..." and it got me to thinking about these things myself.  So I thought it would be fun to share these with you all.  I am warning you that some are probably TMI and downright stupid that I cried at whatever it was, but needless to say, they are funny.

You know you are pregnant when...

You have a hard time putting on strappy sandals because you can't buckle them up and your husband has to come to your rescue.

You can't shave your nether regions very well and fear the thought of wearing a bikini and everyone seeing your botch job.

You get upset that there wasn't enough ice cream in the freezer and want your husband to go get more for you.

You drop something on the floor and contemplate picking it up because you aren't sure if you can get back up again.

You cry because you can't bring your pregnancy pillow on a trip because you have no room for it.

You are bitchy at the bartista because she didn't understand your drink order that you have ordered a million times and onlookers are giving you dirty looks for even drinking coffee.  Is a blended vanilla latte that hard to understand?  I don't think so bitch.

You bought a new bra a month ago that was already up three sizes up from pre-pregnancy and you already have to buy a new one an additional size up.  How big will these knockers get?

You dream about pizza/sushi/ice cream all day and cry if you can't have them that night.

You cry because your doctor told you that you couldn't work out anymore.

And for good measure, I saw this photo and thought about myself.  But I probably would have skipped the chocolate and ate the vanilla and strawberry. #pregnancyproblems
 image via Pinterest
The Grits Blog - Little Friday Linkup
Wednesday, October 8, 2014

21 Weeks

So I told you all I traveled last week and since this is pregnancy related, I thought it was best to share here.  Remember when I told you my flights from two trips ago to Philly area and Jacksonville area were awful?  Feel free to read this part if you need to catch up.  Well I can say that this last trip to LA and New Orleans was so much better.

I took my own advice and wore leggings, a soft tank, over sized sweater and toms on the plane.  So much better.  I could breathe, didn't feel like my jeans were slicing my stomach open and overall felt more comfortable.  And as for the pillow situation, I found a pillow that we use as decoration and brought it on the plane with me.  It is about 12 inches long and not super thick.  I put this baby behind my back and was gold even on a 4 hour flight.  Now I just need to remember to get up more often.  I got up, but not as often as I should I guess.  Overall, my flights were better.  And since my husband will be on this flight with me, no need to worry about lifting my luggage onto the scale, from the carousel or in/out of the car.

Plus I get to wear some fall maternity clothes I have been dying to wear.  Did I just get excited about maternity clothes?  Wow so much has changed.   I have two awesome maternity dresses (that don't look like maternity) for the rehearsal dinner and the wedding.  I have my boots, fall sweaters and jeans all set out for this trip.  I am really looking forward to seeing this part of New Jersey.

Hopefully I can tackle a few other posts today for the next few days since I will be out of town and busy.  But for now, onto the pregnancy/bump update.

How far along: 21 weeks
Babies are the size of a:Pomegranate. And the length of a carrot.  Babies are around 10.5 inches (via TheBump.com) and weighing in around 12.7 ounces each.  I would guess one is and one is a bit more.   
Babies are: "Gulping down amniotic fluid every day, both for hydration and nutrition.  And their taste buds actually work!  Studies show that after birth, babies are most interested in tastes they've already experienced through amniotic fluid.  Meaning, think about what you want your future children to eat as you prepare your own lunch."
Maternity Clothes: Wearing a lot more, but still am wearing non maternity stuff.  Especially over sized shirts, tanks and one last pair of dress pants.
Stretch Marks: None yet thankfully and hope they never show up.
Sleep: Decent.  I have been waking up around 3 to 4 times per night to pee and it's getting tougher to get out of bed on my own.
Symptoms: Backaches and we are back to the bloody noses.  Thankfully no allergies with it.
Best Moment of the Week:Hanging out with our friends Nick and Nathalie.  It has been way too long and Nathalie got tons of time with the babies.  She loved touching my belly, seeing the nursery progress and hearing everything and anything baby related.
Movement: We have movement folks.  I felt them for the first time last Thursday and now they are moving like crazy.  I love it!!
Cravings: Fruit, pizza, ice cream.  Same as always.
Gender: Two precious baby girls.
Belly Button In or Out: In half way.  My belly button looks very awkward...especially when I laugh.
Wedding Ring on or Off: On.
Anything Making You Queasy or Sick: Nothing right now.
What I Miss: Wine.  And poached eggs.
What I am Looking Forward to: Our trip back east tomorrow! And feeling the babies move more.
Labor Signs: Not even close.
Nursery: I started making their nursery mobiles.  They are so cute.  I need more ribbon, but they are coming along.  Plus we are asking everyone who comes over to pick their color of choice for the girls room.  Painting to commence in a week and a half ish.
Emotions: Feeling pretty good.  Haven't cried this week (yet), but I know I will at the wedding.  I am really full of love and happiness right now.  I will take it!


And there you have it.  Baby updates are done for this week and I managed at least two posts so far.  I call that a win for the week.  Hope to have more ready for you all.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014

A Late Week Update

Wow I feel like I should once again be dusting off this blog.  With all of the work travel, nursery prep and maternity clothes shopping, I find it harder to write a post.  No excuses though.

Lots of fun stuff has been happening in the Butler household.  We have been going to lots of football games (traveled to San Jose for the Nevada vs. San Jose State game and this past weekends lost to Boise State), having friends over, blanching our tomatoes for the winter, starting on the nursery and picking names for these beautiful babies, it has been a busy life for us.

Last week I was fortunate enough to go to the City of Angels (plus the Palm Springs area) and New Orleans.  While in LA, I sat in a lot of traffic to get to my work, but then it was amazing to see my best in the evenings.  We had so much fun catching up.  Plus she got to see the bump in full force and we got to eat so much amazing food.  Fried mac n cheese balls, seafood salads and a tasty version of guac and chips.  This pregnant gal was in heaven.

This wasn't from my LA trip, it was from the San Jose trip during the weekend before.  It is a crab benedict.  I know I am not supposed to have poached eggs, but I had to indulge just once and it was SO.WORTH.IT.

Plus I had acai bowls for breakfast daily.  They still didn't hold a candle to my experience in San Diego, but they came close.

I also managed to visit my grandfather's grave since it was so close to where I was staying.  It was a huge blessing to take the babies to see their great grandfather and feel his presence. 

We brought pink flowers because duh, girls and meeting their great grandfather.

Here is that baby bump I promised you in my 20 week update that never made it onto the blog.  Sorry.

Wednesday I headed off to New Orleans and almost didn't make my flights because most flights were late....especially mine out of Vegas.  A mere 50 minute flight away.  But luckily they held our plane since there were over 10 passengers on the flight with me going to New Orleans.

I had never been to New Orleans nor Louisiana, so I was excited to say the least.  I didn't realize how close Bourbon Street was to my hotel, nor did I realize that it is hard to find a great creole/etouffe place.  I searched Yelp and had no real luck.  But I did manage to find an amazing oyster bar called Acme Oyster House.  I had half a dozen char grilled oysters (heaven with all the butter and cheese).

And then I had the fried soft shell crab with sweet potato fries and hush puppies.  So much fried goodness right here.
Sorry for the poorly lit photos.  It was dark inside.  But they had the Giants game on (they beat the Pirates) and the food was killer.

The next morning I woke up super early to walk down to Cafe Du Monde for some of their famous beignets.  Now my husband never had a beignet on his trip to NOLA, but I knew I couldn't pass up the real deal.  In fact, I had them twice in one day.  Breakfast and dessert.  Don't judge.  They were worth it at $2.65 (tax included).  Ladies and gents, meet heaven in the form of a pastry.

These gems were absolutely perfect.  I need more of these in my life.

Let me tell you, Louisiana is HOT.  Like dying with so much sweat hot.  I wore a partial suit and it was a big mistake.  And I was in the car a lot, but I still felt like I was dying.  But I managed to see different parts of the southern side of New Orleans and some damage from Katrina along the way.

After work, I ventured out to Baton Rouge to check out LSU's campus because you must see that campus and stadium. So beautiful there and so hot.  Plus I ran (or drove) through some massive amounts of rain.

Meet Mike the Tiger, LSU's mascot.  He was very hot and tired, but he did pick his head up when we talked to him.  Did you know he hasn't been to one game this year so far (unless he made it to last weekends game, not sure).  The guy who was showing his grandma and mom around said he usually only goes to cooler temp games.  They give him the say in if he goes or not.  Pretty cool.  He was gorgeous with that white and orange mix coloring.

Friday it was time to head home to see my pup and the husband.  But my flight was delayed which meant I wouldn't get to Chicago in time for my next flight.  This also meant no Pot Belly's, whomp whomp.  So I manged to get my flight changed to earlier, but that also meant 15 to 20 minutes to pack and get ready in the morning.  Stressful morning and tons of rain in New Orleans.  Luckily I made A List this trip so security, boarding and checking in were easy.  Thankfully.

Oh and if any of you are bachelor/bachelorette/bachelor in paradise fans, I met Robert (who looks like Liam Hemsworth) in LAX on my way home.  

And so ends another work trip.

I spent the weekend going to the Pack game vs Boise State where we lost and had every opportunity to win.  We blanched tomatoes and made homemade spaghetti sauce and started working on the girls nursery mobiles.

Life has been pretty good to us lately.  Next up, we are going to New Jersey, Avalon to be specific on Thursday for a cousin's wedding.  I am pretty excited.  Plus I have my husband on this flight, so things should be smoother in that sense.

Stay tuned for a pregnancy/bump update tomorrow.  How was your weekend and last week?
Wednesday, October 1, 2014

20 Weeks

Greetings from LA, soon to be New Orleans, I hope. Right now I am delayed in LA and have a short layover that I may not make. Fingers crossed.

We are at the half way mark theoretically if we were having one baby, but since we are having two, we hit that a week or so ago. The doctors say the babies look great, all organs are perfect, all tests look great and they measured in at 10 oz and 11 oz as of Friday. The only thing of worry is my uterus is grown more than normal which means there is more amniotic fluid then they like to see. So we have to be monitored more, I have to cut my workouts even more and make sure I get lots of rest for these little girls.

Now onto the update...
(I have a photo I will upload later when I have use of a computer and not just my iPhone and iPad.)

How far along: 20 weeks
Babies are the size of a: Endive/Banana. Babies are about 6 1/2 inches from head to bottom and 10 inches from head to heel. Babies are at least 10 and 11 ounces, but most likely bigger now. 
Babies are: Swallowing more which is good practice for the digestive system. They are producing meconium which is basically their digestive waste, but don't worry, it most likely won't come out until we change their first diapers. 
Maternity Clothes: I am wearing more and more, but still some non maternity clothes. 
Stretch Marks: None yet thankfully and hope they never show up.
Sleep: Pretty good. Especially in the big comfy king bed I have had all to myself on my trip.
Symptoms: Backaches, swollen feet and ankles. 
Best Moment of the Week: Seeing the babies growth and hearing their organs are perfect! Also our weekend trip to Cali. 
Movement: Nothing.  Doctor said anytime though.
Cravings: Fruit, pizza, ice cream.  Same as always.
Gender: Two precious baby girls.
Belly Button In or Out: In half way.  My belly button looks very awkward...especially when I laugh.
Wedding Ring on or Off: On.
Anything Making You Queasy or Sick: Nothing right now.
What I Miss: My husband and dog.
What I am Looking Forward to: Getting to New Orleans and exploring the city and amazing food. I can't wait for beignets.
Labor Signs: Not even close.
Nursery: We picked out some colors for the walls, painted samples and now are trying to figure out which works best.  So hard to choose.
Emotions: Feeling pretty good. I got to see my best friend in LA both nights and we talked for hours. Plus she saw the bump.