Merry Christmas everyone! I know I'm a few days late but I hope that everyone enjoyed this Christmas holiday with family and friends. Andrew and I went home to Columbia and it was nice seeing our family since we don't get to see them too often. 

Well, we are one week closer to meeting this baby girl of ours, and I'm just getting so excited, anxious and nervous. 

How far along? 36 weeks, 5 days

Baby's size? Ripe Papaya

Gender: Sweet baby girl

Total weight gain/loss: I went to the doctor today and I'm at 12 pounds total. 

Maternity clothes? Still mixing and matching. I'm thinking that's not going to change. We are so close to the end! Today I wore all non-maternity, but I'm obviously showing a lot more!

Sleep: My back is what is starting to keep me up at night. I sleep with a heating pad most nights but I've just started tossing and turning a lot more here recently. Once I fall asleep, I'm pretty much asleep other than rotating a few times and an occasional bathroom break. 

Best moment this week: Celebrating Christmas with our families last weekend. This was a very bittersweet holiday for us as it was the first Christmas without my grandfather and my father-in-law. However, I just tried to remind myself of how much we have to be thankful for right now, but it was still very hard to get through. 

Miss Anything? Carbs and holiday cookies. 

Movement: Very active. Her feet are still pressing against my ribs so I'm having a hard time breathing at times! 

Food cravings: Diet Dr. Pepper (caffeine free) over ice, still. I've been pretty addicted to my Nature Valley Protein bars for breakfast but other than that, not too much.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Symptoms: Pressure, hip pain and my back hurts. Also, this might be TMI but my OB checked my cervix today (completely closed so she'll be baking for a bit longer), and that is no joke. It is extremely uncomfortable so I have that to look forward to for the next few weeks...

Looking forward to: Spending NYE at home and watching the Tigers in the semi-finals this weekend!

Gestational Diabetes Check-In: Going well. Obviously it was difficult this weekend with Christmas, but I grazed and my sugars were great. I've noticed that in the past week or so, my sugars have seemed to come down. I'm not sure if that's just because I'm monitoring or if it's because I'm getting towards the end and it should be going away soon. Pricking my fingers 4x a day has become second nature. Still not comfortable, but not as bad as I once thought.

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate | 30 Week Bumpdate | Gestational Diabetes | 31 Week Bumpdate | 32 Week Bumpdate | 33 Week Bumpdate | 34 & 35 Week Bumpdate

34 & 35 Week Bumpdate

So, I totally skipped last weeks bumpdate and yes, I did take a picture but it turned out terribly because of the lighting, so I'll just post week 35.

Plus, as we get closer and closer to my due date and Christmas, I feel like I've just had less time to do anything. We have put most of our focus on the nursery and just getting ready for the baby so that hasn't left us a lot of "down" time so to speak. However, we did get a chance to go on a baby moon this past weekend to Highlands, NC and it was wonderful. It was our last trip as just the two of us and I couldn't have asked for anything better. We stayed in the cutest cottage at the renown Old Edward's Inn and it was the perfect spot. The town was perfectly decorated in all things Christmas and was just so magical. We spent time walking around all of the shops, each had spa treatments and just relaxed. My favorite part was probably getting in bed at like 8pm and watching Christmas movies by the fire. We have decided that we are going to make this an annual trip!

ow far along? 35 weeks, 3 days

Baby's size? Bunch of carrots

Gender: GIRL 

Total weight gain/loss: I am up two pounds from my last post, so a total of 13 pounds. 

Maternity clothes? I hate to say it, but still mixing and matching. I wore all non-maternity clothes today.

Sleep: My hips are still really bothering me and so is my lower back. When I had my prenatal massage, she focused on those parts of my body but I am currently laying on a heating pad in bed right now so I'm thinking those pains are here to stay. It's made sleeping a little more difficult. 

Best moment this week: Definitely our babymoon! There were no interruptions and lots of quality time with my love. 

Miss Anything? I would LOVE a Christmas sugar cookie or really just anything that involves sugar and carbs. 

Movement: All over the place! She is currently head down with her feet still jabbing my ribs. 

Food cravings: Ice and anything warm!

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Symptoms: A ton of pressure and constant pressure. I feel like every time I get up and walk around, it hurts. Also, my ribs, lower back and hips.

Looking forward to: Spending time with family this Christmas week.

Gestational Diabetes Check-In: I go back to the specialist this week so we will see her growth measurements. I've emailed the dietician and she said that I've been doing well with my sugar levels. We'll get to see another 3D ultrasound!

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate | 30 Week Bumpdate | Gestational Diabetes | 31 Week Bumpdate | 32 Week Bumpdate | 33 Week Bumpdate 

33 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 33 weeks, 5 days

Baby's size? Head of cauliflower

Gender: GIRL 

Total weight gain/loss: As of my last appointment, last Thursday, I had lost another pound so my total weight is 11 pounds. My doctor is still okay with this and knows that because I've been managing my diet, this results in not gaining as much. 

Maternity clothes? Mainly in non-maternity shirts and dresses but loving all of the maternity jeans and work pants!

Sleep: My hips have really been bothering me while tossing and turning in the middle of the night. Also, she has been really active while I'm trying to fall asleep so falling asleep has been more difficult but once I'm actually asleep, I sleep well. I've had to get up a couple of times this week to use the bathroom in the middle of the night but it's only been one time during the night so it's not bad. 

Best moment this week: A few! Clemson won the ACC Championship so we will go on to play Ohio State in the semi-finals on NYE that I will definitely be staying on the couch for! Also, my co-workers threw me a baby shower at work so it was sweet that was fun! Lastly, I got to see my girl on 3D today! She has the chubbiest cheeks, a full head of hair and looks just like her daddy! 

Miss Anything? All of the sweets. I'm not even a big sweets person but the office is full of holiday cookies and it's so tempting to "just have one" but I've done really well at staying away from them. 

Movement: So active! The ultrasound tech today could barely get a good picture because her little hands were constantly in front of her face. She has completely turned since the last ultrasound last week. She is still head down but her body and feet are on the opposite side. Her feet and bottom are still in my ribs, though. 

Food cravings: Diet Dr. Pepper (caffeine free) over ice, duh. Also, Starbucks decaf Pike's Place with sugar free peppermint syrup. Since I can't have the full sugary latte, this has been a great substitute.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Symptoms: A little bit of pressure. I honestly don't know if it's contractions or just pregnancy things going on down there. I don't really know the difference yet. Since she's moving so much, I am constantly feeling it and it's not always that comfortable but it does comfort me to know that she is moving around in there!

Looking forward to: Working on the nursery. The room is painted, the furniture is in the room but Andrew will be putting the crib together tomorrow night. I've done like 5 loads of laundry for her, so I'd like to start putting away her sweet little clothes, blankets and start decorating!

Gestational Diabetes Check-In: Not terrible. Because I have GD, I was referred to Maternal Fetal Medicine to see a dietician and doctor to thoroughly monitor my levels. I went today for the first time, had an ultrasound and then met with the dietician, then the doctor. The ultrasound went well and she is currently weighing 5 pounds, 5 oz. The dietician informed me that I am a unique case and they will treat me differently from most women with GD. Basically, my amniotic fluid levels are low right now, which can cause issues and a potential early delivery. To get my fluids up, I need to rest and drink lots of water. In addition to that, I will now have two scheduled ultrasounds a week. Yes, that could potentially be 12-13 MORE ultrasounds! I am so thankful to see my sweet girl on that screen. They will measure the fluids during this time to make sure that it is not decreasing. A little scary, but hopefully nothing to be too concerned about at this time. I'll keep you posted! 

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate | 30 Week Bumpdate | Gestational Diabetes | 31 Week Bumpdate | 32 Week Bumpdate 

32 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 32 weeks, 6 days

Baby's size? Florida Pomelo

Gender: Baby girl

Total weight gain/loss: I will find out tomorrow but I'm guessing around 13-14 pounds. I have stopped weighing myself at home and just wait to get the official number from the doctor. 

Maternity clothes? Still mixing and matching. I just ordered a new pair of flannel pajamas that I'm really excited about but they are non-maternity…what was I thinking?!

Sleep: I am sleeping throughout the night and thankfully don't have to get up and use the restroom in the middle of the night! I hope I don't get to that point where I'm constantly waking up just to pee. But, I am sleeping well. I still toss and turn a little but overall, I can't complain. 

Best moment this week: I would say maintaining my sugars. It has gotten easier with each passing day and I'm proud to say that my sugars are where they need to be. It is encouraging knowing that by changing my diet, I can manage my levels. Also, we bought our Christmas tree and decorated our house for the holidays! Oh, and our Christmas cards have been ordered! I think that this is the earliest I've ever ordered them but I couldn't pass up the Cyber Monday sales! One more…beating those Gamecocks! We had so much fun with our friends and it never hurts when your football team completely steamrolls your rival team. 

Miss Anything? Condiments and sauces. And, carbs. 

Movement: Yes, mainly when I'm laying down or while I'm still but she is very active. 

Food cravings: My dietician introduced me to the Harvest Snapea Crisps and I've been eating them as a snack. My favorite flavors are Black Pepper and Caesar so far! I've also been loving the Sargento Balanced Snack packs.

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Symptoms: I'm not sure if it's due to the cold weather, but my left hand (coincidentally the same hand I prick for my sugars) is super dry. I'm constantly having to apply lotion. Also, I'm having a hard time putting my socks and shoes on and have to sit on the bench to do so. Drop something on the floor? Forget it. It's staying there. And, nesting. I think I am to the point where all I think about is what I need to be doing to get ready for the baby. Whether it's the nursery, reading my books, baby shower thank you notes or purchasing last minute registry items…I'm beginning to get a little anxious because January will be here before we know it!

Looking forward to: My 33 week checkup and ultrasound is tomorrow so I am really excited since we haven't seen her since my last 20 week ultrasound. Also, my mom will be driving up to come to the appointment and it's her first time being at the ultrasound with us. Lastly, the painters are coming to paint the nursery tomorrow!! We will pick up our baby furniture on Friday and start putting all of it together!

Gestational Diabetes Check-In: Easier with each day. I am getting more comfortable with pricking my fingers and finding low carb items on a menu if we eat out. Thank you to all of you who have reached out. I know several of you have emailed me because you have had GD or you are currently going through it. It is also comforting knowing that you are not alone so if there is any advice or any questions I can answer, just ask! 

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate | 30 Week Bumpdate | Gestational Diabetes | 31 Week Bumpdate 

31 Week Bumpdate

Happy Thanksgiving (a day late!) I hope everyone enjoyed their day with family and friends and lots of yummy food! Andrew and I have so much to be thankful for this year and it was so nice enjoying time with loved ones. 

How far along? Well, technically 32 weeks now but this picture was taken at 31 weeks so just go with it! 

Baby's size? Coconut

Gender: Sweet, sweet girl. 

Total weight gain/loss: I'm not sure if I told y'all this week but ever since I was told I had gestational diabetes, I actually lost weight so my total weight gain is 12 pounds. The doctor is perfectly happy with that and says it's actually a really healthy weight and that she is not surprised my weight dropped. Because I've cut out a lot of carbohydrates, fried foods and sugars, it was expected to happen. 

Maternity clothes? Still mixing and matching. As I lay here in my pajamas right now, I am realizing I might need to invest in a new flannel set.

Sleep: Sleep is getting a little more difficult. I am constantly changing sides and my hips hurt when I move. Baby girl likes to stretch out herself and her little feet (I think they are her feet) are constantly in my ribs so that's been interesting. 

Best moment this week: Spending Thanksgiving with our family and purchasing our stroller, car seat, pack-n-play, high chair, glider…aka all of the big item pieces we've been waiting to buy. 

Miss Anything? French fries and bread.

Movement: Yes, when she moves now…my entire belly moves and it's quite hilarious! 

Food cravings: Still loving ice (and I checked with my doctor and my hemoglobin levels are great, so no anemia for those wondering!)

Anything making you queasy or sick? No.

Symptoms: Not sure if you could call it a symptom, but since she is getting bigger and bigger, she's running out of space and I feel like I have to lean back constantly just so that she can stretch out.

Looking forward to: My 33 week checkup and ultrasound! Since I have diabetes, they will be doing a growth measurement to see how big she is so I can't wait to see her little face on that screen!

Gestational Diabetes Check-In: As you can see, I just added this question but I will say that it is going okay. It could definitely be worse! Checking my sugars 4x a day as definitely been a little time consuming and annoying (my little fingers hurt so bad!), but I've kind of gotten use to it by now. I've pricked myself so many times that I could do it in my sleep. My sugar levels have been great and are exactly where they need to be, so I know that my change in diet has been working. I had my diabetes class last week and my dietician was wonderful and showed me how to read the nutrition label and how many servings of carbs, fiber and protein I needed to take in. She was very helpful and was able to tell me healthy carbs, what to eat and what to stay away from. Very informative. 

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate | 30 Week Bumpdate | Gestational Diabetes 

Dealing with Gestational Diabetes

After four long and brutal glucose tests, I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes. 

via 

When we started trying for a baby, I was initially diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) which is basically a hormone imbalance. I was put on medication and it helped maintain it, but it's something that will never go away. So, when diagnosed with that, my doctor told me that I would have a much higher risk of having gestational diabetes. I thought to myself "Ok, sure, you've got to say that to cover yourself." I never actually imagined I would have it. I am healthy, young and eat well. Sure, I'll occasionally make poor decisions regarding my diet, but overall, I'd consider myself healthy. I don't eat a lot of sugars or desserts so I thought that only those who eat a lot of sugars will probably get it. Nope. Has absolutely nothing to do with your eating habits. It is 100% the process of how your body breaks down and processes the sugars you eat. There was nothing I could have done to prevent this, which does make me feel less guilty. 

A few questions you might be wondering:

Why did you have so many tests?

Well, since they knew I was high risk for GD, I was first tested at 20 weeks, which is 8 weeks earlier than the normal time. I drastically failed my first 1 hour test, then passed the first 3 hour test with flying colors. At 28 weeks, I failed my second 1 hour test and then barely failed my 3 hour test by 4 points. So, after 4 tests and tons of blood draws and bruises, I was diagnosed. 

So, what does this mean for the next 10 weeks? 

Well, for starters, I will attend a class this week to go over dietary restrictions and how to live a healthy lifestyle with GD. I will receive tips on what to eat, what not to eat and how often to eat. 

Next, I will check my blood sugars. This involves pricking my finger 4 times a day and keeping a log of my measurements. This is what I am completely dreading the most and get the cold sweats just thinking about it. 

What does it mean for the baby? 

Well, as long as I monitor my diet and make sure my blood sugar levels are stable, she will be fine. She might be a little bigger and might come earlier than 40 weeks, but I'm hoping she is able to stay in there as long as possible and maintain a healthy weight. 

What happens after she is born? 

Well, gestational diabetes should go away as soon as she's born. Isn't that crazy? They will deliver her and immediately check my levels and as long as everything is normal, the diabetes automatically is gone! 

Is there a chance I could get GD with baby #2? 

Yes. I pray not and it is not 100% likely, but I need to be prepared that it can certainly happen again. 

As badly as it sucks to have this (especially during my most favorite holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas), following a strict diet and logging my numbers are extremely important so that I can continue to maintain a healthy pregnancy. And more importantly, this will directly affect our baby girl and her health.

Thank you to those of you who know what I've been going through and have reached out to me. Thank you to my husband and family for supporting me and drying up my tears! This won't be easy but I'll do anything to ensure that our baby is healthy. 

If you have gestational diabetes or know anyone who has, and you have some helpful tips, please let me know! 

xoxo

30 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 30 weeks, 4 days

Baby's size? Cantaloupe

Gender: All Baby Girl. 

Total weight gain/loss: Around 15-16 pounds.

Maternity clothes? More and more each day although I wore a non-maternity dress to work today. I'm getting bigger but definitely not as big as I'll be in a few weeks...

Sleep: I am sleeping well but my hips hurt when trying to turn over or get out of bed. 

Best moment this week: Ordering more things for the nursery! It's been fun to really start getting all of the decor together and imagine what it will look like. 

Miss Anything? Carbs and sugars. 

Movement: Yes, still moving a lot but I think she's slowed down just a little. She's got to start running out of room to move in there! 

Food cravings: One thing I've been loving for a while but didn't realize it was a craving until recently is ice. I've been loving chewing on ice. I know, it's terrible but so refreshing.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Not really. 

Symptoms: I had heartburn for the first time in a while tonight. And, it's harder for me to breathe when moving around.

Looking forward to: I've got a doctor's checkup this week that I'm looking forward to so I can ask some questions. Also, I'm having a baby shower this weekend that I'm looking forward to because I'll get to see a lot of family and friends that I haven't seen in a while!

PS. If you didn't see, I posted what I bought in the Sephora VIB Sale and today is the last day so hurry on over and check out take advantage of the sale! 

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate | 29 Week Bumpdate

Sephora VIB Sale - What I Bought

Happy Sunday! I have a post for you and it's not a bumpdate (but I'll be posting one soon though)! Are you surprised? It's been some time since I've done a beauty post, but it's that special time of year and it's sadly almost over! The Sephora VIB Sale is going on and everything is 20% off through tomorrow. 

I obviously wish I could have gotten more, but with baby girl coming soon and Christmas right around the corner, I had to limit myself because it can get pretty dangerous in there and it's so easy to just start putting things in the basket.

However, I am very excited about the few products I got and one of them is even a repeat!



1 | 2 | 3 | 4

1. I was probably the most excited about this eyeshadow palette.  The Anastasia Beverly Hills Master Palette by Mario  has been talked about so much online and I follow Mario on Instagram and I've been eyeing this ever since he announced his collaboration with ABH months ago. Can't wait to try it! 

2. This is another cult favorite and Bobbi Brown is known for her eyeshadows and this Camel color will be a fall/winter staple and it's right up my alley. Matte and warm, what else do you need? 

3. This Christian Dior Creme de Rose lip balm is a repeat purchase and I believe it's actually my third one! It smells devine and is so soft and velvety and feels so cooling on my chapped lips in the winter.

4. You know I'm a sucker for a nude lip, and I'm hoping this Nars Velvet Lip Glide in Stripped is no exception. Andrew was waiting for me outside of the store so I quickly swatched this and threw it in my basket! I'll keep you posted on my thoughts. 

The sale ends tomorrow and if you are buying online, the promo code is 20VIB but you can also shop in stores!

I'd love to hear what you bought or what's on your wish list…there is always tomorrow if there is something I need to try! 

29 Week Bumpdate

Hey friends! How in the world is it already November and how are earth will I be 30 weeks tomorrow? This pregnancy has been such a blessing and I've loved every minute of it. I'm honestly going to miss being pregnant but obviously can't wait to meet our girl. 

How far along? 29 weeks, 6 days…can't believe I'm about to be 30 weeks. Where has the time gone? 

Baby's size? Hawaiian Pineapple

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: Around 14-15 pounds.

Maternity clothes? Yes and no. Still wearing mainly non-maternity shirts and dresses but wearing maternity pants. We have a big cocktail event to attend tomorrow for Andrew's work so I did end up buying a maternity dress for that!

Sleep: Sleeping has been a little different this week. I feel like she is constantly moving while trying to fall asleep and I'm waking up a little bit more than usual, but I still can't complain because I feel like I'm getting sleep. 

Best moment this week: Andrew is meeting with the painters tomorrow so hopefully they will start ASAP. Stay tuned on the nursery… I can't wait to start sharing once we have some progress! 

Miss Anything? Carbs, carbs and more carbs….and sugar. Stay tuned for this one…there is definitely a big reason I'm cutting these out. 

Movement: Constantly! She is an active little girl. 

Food cravings: Again, carbs. And, the sauces that have a ton of sugar in them.

Anything making you queasy or sick? I cooked Andrew salmon the other night and it just wasn't appealing at all. 

Symptoms: Knock on wood but I haven't had heartburn in a while! BH have seemed to calm down. But I'll be honest. I'm having a difficult moving around such as bending down to put on my shoes and just getting around in general.

Looking forward to: The Clemson (Senior game) this weekend and taking a lot of stuff from the old office turned nursery to storage. It is finally cleaned out (except for all of baby girl's gifts, decor that needs to be set up, etc).

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate | 28 Week Bumpdate 

28 Week Bumpdate

So, I'm almost a full week late, but to my defense, this picture was actually taken days ago but I've just been busy and lazy….like usual.

How far along? 28 weeks, 6 days…hello third trimester!! 

Baby's size? Tropical Coconut…makes me which I was somewhere in the Caribbean!

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: I went to the doctor on Monday, and I am officially up 14 pounds. I am measuring right at 28 weeks, too! 

Maternity clothes? Still mixing and matching but with it being a little cooler in the mornings, I've been grabbing more pants lately (maternity). I had a friend loan me some of her maternity work clothes so I put hung all of those up in my closet tonight so now I have more options!

Sleep: Still sleeping really well and honestly haven't even used my Snoogle yet…but there is still plenty of time! I haven't really had any vivid dreams yet, either. 

Best moment this week: Andrew coming home! He was gone for about 11 days (off and on) and it is just so nice to have him back. He stayed home from work today and worked on cleaning out the nursery so I am so thankful for that because paint is coming very soon! 

Miss Anything? When we went to Napa back in August, Andrew joined the Baldacci wine club and we just received 18 bottles so that's been a little tough for me to watch him drink solo. 

Movement: Oh yes. I am beginning to feel her move when I move. It used to just be when I was laying down but now it is pretty much all the time. 

Food cravings: See previous post, but still loving all the sauces. My brother in law told me about the Chickfila Sriracha sauce and how did I not know about this? It is basically a sweet, thai chili sauce and pretty much the best thing ever.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Not that I can think of. 

Symptoms: It seems as though my BH has picked up a little. I woke up and felt terrible this morning and had some cramping. I went into work but then came home early because I was having a lot of tightening.

Looking forward to: Spending this weekend at home with A! We are slowly but surely getting our house ready for the baby and we will continue to work on that this weekend.

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate  | 27 Week Bumpdate

27 Week Bumpdate

So, I am quite behind on this week's bump date seeing that I'm about to be 28 weeks but here we go. Needless to say, we've been really busy and I've just been really tired these days. I feel like a broken record. 

How far along? 27 weeks, 5 days

Baby's size? Bunch of bananas

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: I think I'm up to about 11-12 pounds. 

Maternity clothes? I am honestly still wearing mostly non-maternity dresses to work because it's still in the 80s-90s and then an occasional pair of maternity pants during the week.

Sleep: Shockingly, really well. I fall asleep with her kicking me and wake up with her kicking me but she seems to be getting her rest throughout the night which is so nice! I am not to the point where I have to wake up and pee during the middle of the night…when does that start? 

Best moment this week: I am really starting to feel her move on a more regular basis whereas in the past it's been every couple hours. I am finally to the point where it doesn't startle me every time she makes a movement! 

Miss Anything? Daylight! Don't get me wrong. Fall is my favorite time of the year and I love the chilly mornings and wearing sweaters, but I hate how it gets so dark at like 7PM! It definitely does encourage me to get in bed way earlier than usual because it tricks me into thinking it is later than it is. 

Movement: Yup! Andrew will cuddle with me before I get out of bed in the mornings and he will just hold his hand on my belly and feel her move. Brings tears to my eyes. 

Food cravings: Condiments. I've always been a "sauce" kind of girl, but I can't get enough of Polynesian or Chickfila sauce….yum!

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope! 

Symptoms: My BH has seemed to settle down, at least for now anyways. I just bought a brand new bottle of tums so I guess the heartburn hasn't stopped.

Looking forward to: I am going home to Columbia this weekend to spend time with my family so I am excited to see them! Also, I go for my glucose and check up appointment on Halloween, lucky me. I am not excited about my second glucose test but I am excited to hear the baby's heartbeat and talk to the doctor to see how everything is progressing.

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate | 26 Week Bumpdate 

26 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 26 weeks, 3 days

Baby's size? Butternut squash

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: Still at about 10 pounds total. 

Maternity clothes? Mixing and matching! I wore all non-maternity this weekend but who knows what this week will bring. I finally changed out my closet today and stored my summer clothes so it will be nice to have all of my fall sweaters to wear.

Sleep: Still sleeping well but not wanting to wake up in the mornings! 

Best moment this week: We began sharing her name with family and close friends! I probably won't be sharing her name on social media but saying it out loud made it so surreal. I also bought her own personalized thank you notes that I can't wait to get! 

Miss Anything? Normal jeans. Don't get me wrong, the maternity pants are comfortable, but that band can be a little annoying because it constantly falls down!

Movement: Yes, and loving every second. She does still startle me at times. I literally just took a video of her moving around because you can see it shaking my belly, so cute! 

Food cravings: Nope, just food. All day, everyday.

Anything making you queasy or sick? I am feeling great. 

Symptoms: Still have some serious heartburn in the afternoon. Also, I think I officially have experienced Braxton Hicks this week and it's no joke. It is extremely uncomfortable and I'm calling my doctor tomorrow to see if I need to do anything. I'm sure everything is perfectly fine but this is the first symptom I've had to ask my doctor about so hopefully she can reassure me.

Looking forward to: Beginning my third trimester! Also, looking forward to a relaxing week! I don't think we have much going on this week which will be nice because we have been on the go for the past few weeks/weekends and I'm exhausted!

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate | 25 Week Bumpdate 

25 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 25 weeks, 3 days

Baby's size? A head of cabbage

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: I went to the doctor this week and I've officially gained 10 pounds. 

Maternity clothes? Still wearing a lot of my non-maternity clothes but every time I wear my maternity clothes, I am so much more comfortable. I don't have enough room in my closet for all 4 seasons of clothes so I am going to try to go through all of my summer clothes this week and box them up and get out all of my fall/winter clothes. I am hoping that I'll be able to wear the majority of my sweaters from last season.

Sleep: I honestly haven't really had any issues! 

Best moment this week: A group of our Greenville friends threw us a baby shower and it was so much fun celebrating our girl. 

Miss Anything? Back to the deli meats. I got Andrew a Publix sub (they are so good!) and I settled for the veggie wrap which was actually pretty good but I would have much rather had a turkey sub. 

Movement: Yes, everyday! Andrew puts his hand on my belly each night before going to bed and it's the sweetest. She is very active around 9-10PM so he indicated that he thinks she'll be up that late when she's here! 

Food cravings: Not really…just food in general! I am much hungrier these days.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope. Still haven't gotten sick at all. 

Symptoms: Heartburn and the beginning of pregnancy brain. Yes, it is totally a thing and I'm beginning to finally realize that I have it.

Looking forward to: We are still in the process of cleaning out the current office that will turn into the nursery so I'm looking forward to getting that done! I hate "stuff" just sitting everywhere and can't for everything to either go to Goodwill, the trash or a new home. Then, I feel like we can finally start painting and decorating the nursery.

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate | 24 Week Bumpdate

24 Week Bumpdate

Oh my gosh, I can't even describe the amount of love and support I got from my last post. I genuinely want to thank each of you who reached out to me to let me know how they relate, or how they want to hear more of my story or just to thank me for opening up regarding my issues with infertility. I've got some posts coming up so be on the lookout for that. 

But, it wouldn't be another week without my 24 week check in! 

How far along? 24 weeks, 2 days

Baby's size? An eggplant

Gender: G I R L 

Total weight gain/loss: 10 pounds 

Maternity clothes? I am still mixing and matching but I wore maternity pants 3 times the week! My mom came up for the night and we went shopping and I got 3 new pairs of work pants that should get me through the fall and winter.

Sleep: I sleep really well but get uncomfortable when adjusting or getting out of bed. 

Best moment this week: I really enjoyed spending time with my mom since I don't get to see her often so that was a nice surprise! We also ordered our baby furniture and will hopefully get that soon so I can't wait to officially start decorating! 

Miss Anything? Still missing caffeine and sushi. 

Movement: Yes, and I love it! I absolutely love feeling her move around when she has the hiccups. So cute. 

Food cravings: I've been loving Talenti gelato. I'm definitely limiting myself but I've been craving sweets after dinner...which is so unlike this salty loving girl! 

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope. Still haven't gotten sick at all. 

Symptoms: Afternoon heartburn and I got another leg cramp last night! I literally woke up in tears (and screams) and Andrew came to the rescue again and helped stretch out my leg. It's always my left leg, which I find to be unusual that it's the same one every time.

Looking forward to: My next doctor's appointment next week. I haven't been since I miserably failed/drastically passed my glucose test. I won't have an ultrasound but I just like hearing that everything is going smoothly! It definitely gives me reassurance.

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate | 23 Week Bumpdate

Something I've Never Talked About on Social Media

It seems as though all of my posts lately have felt like they've been weekly bump dates…and that's because they have been. I've always enjoyed blogging but once I took a break this past spring due to a lot of personal reasons, I had a difficult time getting back into the groove of pulling out my laptop and trying to come up with creative topics. Once I got pregnant, I thought this could be a new outlet for me to talk about my pregnancy and really just to document so that I can look back at my first experience of motherhood. And, then I got into the rut of coming home, cooking dinner, cleaning and going to bed because pregnancy, duh. 

What you don't know and something that I've had on my mind for a long time and never had the guts to share, is that as wonderful as my pregnancy has been so far, it was an extremely difficult journey getting to this point. 

Andrew and I moved into our first home together exactly two years ago this week. And, we started trying to get pregnant the day we moved in. Literally. At the time, I was 26 years old and knew that we were both ready to start our family. I'm not going to say that I was completely naive and thought it would be "easy" to get pregnant, but I certainly had no idea what the next year and a half would bring. 

Lots of tears, lots of doctors appointments, lots of medications, unanswered questions and even surgery. 

Don't judge, I know this is a terrible photo but after spending hours and hours in the doctor's office, you get bored and start taking selfies. 

I think I am finally to the point where I am ready to talk about my journey with infertility and I hope that this will inspire some of you and hope that if anyone has gone through or is currently going through this, it will keep you positive knowing that you are not alone in this journey. 

I will probably split this up into several posts of what I personally went through, posts about my jealousy and anger of others and even emotional posts that I wrote during that time period. 

I would love for you to follow this journey with me but if this isn't your jam, I totally understand and I am seriously going to bring back some of my beauty and recipe posts very soon! 

23 Week Bumpdate

How far along? 23 weeks, 3 days

Baby's size? A bunch of grapes

Gender: Girl. 

Total weight gain/loss: I haven't really weighed myself in a few days but probably around 9-10. 

Maternity clothes? Guilty. I finally busted out my first pair of maternity "jeans" this weekend and it was fabulous. I bought a belly band last week but think I might return it (never even opened) and just go straight to the maternity pants. I'm still in the majority of regular clothes though.

Sleep: Pretty well. I still toss and turn a little but I haven't had to bust out the snoogle yet. 

Best moment this week: I think this was the week that I officially popped and just seeing our baby girl change my body was a special moment. 

Miss Anything? Caffeine. When I first found out I was pregnant, I cut all caffeine out. My two cups of coffee a day, diet Dr. Pepper, all of it. When I went to the doctor around 12 weeks, she told me I could drink caffeine but just drink it in moderation. Well, I have been limiting it to 1 cup a day or 1 cup every other day so I've missed drinking coffee and soda in the same day. 

Movement: I've been feeling her move a lot. It still startles me sometimes when I'm not expecting it, but I love just putting my hand on my belly and waiting for her to kick again. 

Food cravings: I haven't really been craving any certain foods but there are certain foods that don't really sound appetizing like baked/grilled chicken and salmon (even though I haven't eaten any during pregnancy). 

Anything making you queasy or sick? Not that I can think of. 

Symptoms: Heartburn. I carry Tums Smoothies in my purse and it really does seem to help. Thanks for those of you reaching out to give me some tips on my leg cramps! They have definitely gotten better so thank you!

Looking forward to: Clemson plays Louisville next Saturday so I'm looking forward to spending the day in Clemson with our close friends and hoping for a Tiger win!

I promise that I'm going to try to write posts other than bumpdates but life has been crazy lately and all I want to do when I get home from work is cook/eat dinner and get in bed. So, I really apologize but I'm hoping to get back into the swing of things soon!

More BABY posts 

Pregnancy Announcement | Gender Prediction | Gender Reveal | 16 Week Bumpdate | 17 Week Bumpdate | 18 Week Bumpdate | 19 Week Bumpdate | 20 Week Bumpdate | 21 Week Bumpdate | 22 Week Bumpdate