Jansen's In Denver

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2011-04-15T08:16:00.001-07:00

www.serattejansen.blogspot.com

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The year of Morgan

2010-12-31T19:47:00.000-08:00

The year of Morgan is coming to a close. I have three hours to get this written and uploaded before 2011 strikes. One year ago exactly, Will and I were introduced to the movie 'Paranormal Activity.' This is definitely a movie that goes down in my book as creepy! As for Will, I think he still has nightmares about it. So when I mentioned renting 'Paranormal Activity 2' for tonight, he certainly shot me an icy glare. We settled on a teeny-bopper movie instead...The Twilight Saga: Eclipse. Hmmm...werewolves with 6-packs and vampires with chiseled facial features...I definitely won this round!

Although the Denver weather gods blessed us with 50'ish degree weather on Christmas day, and Morgan didn't receive her first white Christmas, we had a very enjoyable day at home assembling some of her new toys and staring in admiration at the pile of clothes she received from friends and family.

One of my favorite moments of this holiday was attending mass on Christmas Eve and introducing Morgan to the song 'Surprise, Surprise' in which the priest plays a tambourine and gleefully sings 'SURPRISE, SURPRISE, RIGHT BEFORE YOUR EYES, GOD IS A SURPRISE, IT HAPPENED TO THE WISE. SURPRISE, SURPRISE, GOD IS A SURPRISE, OPEN UP YOUR EYES & SEE.' I've laughed about this song for an entire year after initially hearing it from the same priest back in 2009. His enthusiasm for singing it is contagious and the majority of the congregation laughs a bit too in between versus so when I heard the tambourine start up this year, I giggled like a school girl (cue Will rolling his eyes) before belting out the lyrics to Morgan. Let's just say I shouldn't join the church choir anytime soon but I sure had fun letting loose!

Here are some Christmas photos from our family. Happy New Years!!!

I can't get up!

2010-12-19T10:26:00.000-08:00

Fleeting images from 'A Christmas Story' crossed my mind as I bundled Morgan up last night for a walk around the Southlands to view lights and the bonfire.

Poor Randy...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HW4IZ0Flh3M

Merry Christmas!

Kisses to you, my dear Denver

2010-12-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

In case you don't know yet, we're uprooting and moving to Cincinnati next month. I haven't quite made an official announcement yet since Will's still in the process of finalizing things with his new company (GE Aviation) but we've shared the news with family and friends (in person versus a nationwide blurb on Facebook). Sadly enough, our friends are scattered all over the U.S. so it's not possible to share this life-changing news with everyone in person.

I've been out of the loop of blogging since any spare time, usually after Morgan hits the hay, is spent looking for rental property near Will's new office in Evendale, Ohio. It's about a 20 minute commute from downtown Cincinnati. We're also working with our realtor here to set the wheels in motion regarding putting our house on the market. Talk about bittersweet. Although we anticipate a great life in Ohio, Will and I can't quite let go of the fact that we're leaving our first REAL home, our home where Morgan was born, after barely living in it for a year. I feel like we haven't even fully unpacked and worn out our welcome yet. I had so many decorating ideas for this place. Will and I shared many great evenings out back, with a glass of good wine & a crackling fire, discussing how we would build a deck and enjoy a hot tub during the winter months. I know, I know...we'll build many more memories elsewhere that will be even greater but I am not quite ready to let go of these dreams and happy times on Alamo Place. Almost eight years of my life have been spent in Colorado...drifting through jobs and making good friendships at each place...learning how I hated to ski and that maybe, just maybe, I was a snow bunny that congregated around the hot cocoa machine indoors versus sitting atop the mountain....enjoying happy hour while I was single, down in the tech center, after a hard days work...getting my first taste of unemployment and making the best of it by lounging at the pool with Monica...finding Will and falling in love....buying my first fancy car with leather interior and a sunroof (yes, VW was and still is fancy to me)....working downtown and feeling like a big city girl when I could walk around downtown streets without getting lost (thanks to a little help from MapQuest)...mastering the upper cut in turbo kickboxing with Erin and laughing our asses off at the zombie move in Zumba...finding out that working for women bosses may not be my cup of tea in life...planning Girls Night Out with some of the greatest girls I've ever known (I was known as the Evite Nazi)...getting married and becoming a wife....becoming a homeowner....becoming a mama....see, the list goes on! These past eight years have been some of the best of my life.

So with that said, we're trying to enjoy every last moment here even as Christmas quickly approaches. It's easy to get lost in the chaos of moving. Days slip by so quickly. Then before we know it, we'll be saying goodbye. So for now we rejoice in the fact that Morgan will soon be celebrating her very first Christmas.

Morgan was baptized on 12/11/10 at Church of the Risen Christ in Denver. Grandma & Grandpa Jansen were able to make it into town for this special occasion. She was quite content in church and pushed all of our hands away when we each made the sign of the cross on her forehead. Some of the congregation laughed at her defiance!

Morgan is now 27.5" long and weighs 17 lbs, 6 ounces. She has seven teeth and just recently started eating baby food - first peas, then sweet potatoes and this week...disgusting green beans!

She has dry heaved numerous times while trying to swallow this smelly vegetable. Even Gerber can't cutesy up this veggie! My mom got a good laugh knowing Morgan has already inherited my "dinnertime dry heaves". Apparently I made my parents' meal times unbearable with my ever-so-picky taste buds and refusal to eat anything not covered in cheese. Honestly though, I'm having the hardest time grasping the concept of me being a stubborn child!

Thanksgiving in Style

2010-11-26T16:39:00.001-08:00

Morgan premiered in one cranky episode after another this Thanksgiving. Yes, we were blessed with a wonderful child but one that endured almost a sleepless night on Thanksgiving Eve...so, our first turkey day at home was one of...well, whines & tears (and I don't mean the good wine either)! :-)

Between sobs, we were able to catch a few nice moments on this special day. She was stylin' in her new Gap onesie.

I wasn't sure this particular day would be the best to introduce her to a turtleneck, but she came out of the neck hole with a partial smile on her face so I count that as a successful moment.

Thanksgiving also marked the night in which we would start a bedtime ritual. After reading the Super Baby chapter on sleepful nights, I was insistent that our baby would have a bedtime hour. No more would she dictate when she wanted to sleep....TONIGHT was the night we took control. The chapter said it would take between 15-60 minutes for a baby to learn to soothe themselves into sweet bliss. After checking every clock in the house to see that it was 5 minutes past 1 a.m., we quickly learned that our baby would not conform to that "chapter". 4 hours and 30 minutes later, Morgan was asleep in her crib. Understandably, it was her first night for this routine but geez! I'm already getting anxiety thinking about tonight's adventure.

Thanksgiving 2010 was laid to rest as was our sanity. However, there is a happy ending to this holiday story. Not knowing the others plan, Will and I both said a silent prayer asking God to bless us with a peaceful nights sleep so that we could be energized for Morgan today. And it worked - Morgan slept in until 9 a.m. without waking up even once during the night. Thank you God for that blessing! For that, yes we are truly thankful.

As for the Super Baby book...well, it was returned to the library this afternoon.

Is that all you've got?

2010-11-24T11:59:00.001-08:00

Morgan mastered her first official bowl of rice cereal in that she not only wanted to eat it all BUT she wanted to feed herself by taking control of the spoon.

Needless to say, she had a bath shortly after dinner. She had cereal behind her ears as well as on the back of her head!

Geez guys, is that all you've got?

Teething (Again)!

2010-11-21T07:36:00.000-08:00

Morgan is now teething....times THREE! She already has two bottom teeth but now has three more coming in AT THE SAME TIME! Luckily, she's not as cranky as you might assume a baby would be in this particular situation.

At Morgan's five month appointment, she weighed close to 16 pounds and is almost 28" long. Quite the tall baby!

She has learned to put pressure on her legs and stand in her Baby Einstein jumper. Having so many toys within reach can be fun, and overstimulating, all at the same time.

Maybe she passed out from exhaustion or from too much Fraggle Rock? We'll never really know....

Family Photos

2010-11-21T07:20:00.000-08:00

Our first family photo session took place at Woodwood Park in Tulsa. What better way to capture our time with Morgan then to have my dad and Uncle Ken behind the camera. They are both avid photographers with a lot of talent! Maybe I'm biased, but I think they did a fantastic job!!!

These are our favorite of the bunch...

Greenview Circle

2010-11-21T06:15:00.000-08:00

It doesn't quite seem that just a month ago I was at home with my parents, introducing Morgan to the house I was born in...the house on Greenview Circle in which my entire childhood took place.

And what a wonderful childhood it was. I always knew I was fortunate in that regard but now, being a mom myself, I really grasp the full understanding of it all. To know I was so loved by two wonderful people is the most powerful thing I can take away from my past. And to know that I can pass that loving connection on to Morgan is simply amazing. Some days I can't stare at her enough, afraid that the moment will pass me by and I will forget some precious feature of her face. I suppose that is why I am constantly taking photographs of her. I want to capture "her" in every single moment in time before another day rolls around and new memories overlap the old.

I still enjoy sleeping in my old bedroom at home, the one that doesn't necessarily have my belongings in it anymore but still holds memories of my adolescence (I moved bedrooms as I got older - my baby room was changed into a study). If you know my mom then you know that the change of each season means a new coat of paint on some wall in that house! So I know buried deep in layers and layers of paint are the colors of my walls from long ago. My favorite was the black & white theme I had in junior high with pastel pink flowers as accents (then it changed to sunflowers). Magazine photos of NKOTB and Cory Haim adorned the walls and those mirrored closet doors were my window to the world of being a back-up dancer to Paula Abdul (ok, so maybe my moves weren't that good)! So in that room I shared my memories with Morgan. Each day we opened the window and listened to the trickling of water off the rocks (a handmade fish pond in the herb garden made years ago by my parents). Such a soothing sound to the ears...wish I could've bottled it up and brought it back here to Denver.

Morgan got to meet my old high school buddy, Catrina, and her two children Wyatt and Avery.

We enjoyed a day at their new house (which ironically is less than five minutes from my parents). She too moved away after college (to Portland, Oregon) and just recently came back to Double S (Sand Springs).

During another day, I reunited with my big sis in the Gamma Phi Beta sorority...Kelli!

She has two girls, Avery and Alice. Her youngest is about three months older then Morgan so after introducing the girls at lunch, we headed out on a shopping excursion at Utica Square in Tulsa. To our surprise, both Alice and Morgan selected the same hat at Gap. Ironic, I think not! They are two peas in a pod.

Morgan also got to meet her Great Uncle Seratte (aka: GUS) - to me, he's Uncle Ken, my dad's younger brother.

The remainder of the time, we enjoyed just being together.

Until next time grandma and papa....

Ghosts, Goblins and a Zebra?

2010-10-31T19:45:00.001-07:00

The candy bowl is bare, the candles have been blown out, the creepy Halloween music has been put away for another year and the porch light and pumpkins are now dark.

Good-bye Halloween 2010. You were a fun one!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

Morgan's first Halloween has arrived...my favorite time of year and my favorite holiday!

She was able to enjoy the fall foliage at grandma and papa's house in Sand Springs earlier this month...

and tomorrow, she'll be at home sporting a cute lil' zebra costume for all the trick or treaters in our neighborhood.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!

Roll Away Baby

2010-10-27T08:55:00.001-07:00

While visiting Grandma and Papa in Sand Springs last week, Morgan mastered the art of rolling over onto her stomach and propping herself up on her elbows. Now she's unstoppable when it comes to showing off and rolling over every chance she gets. She has her sights set on petting Jewels, who is still quite leery of this screeching baby that entered her home months ago. Yesterday I caught Morgan rolling over three times in a row inching her way closer & closer to Jewels. Sort of like watching a soldier crawl under barbed wire in boot camp...yes, Morgan was just that inconspicuous! Of course, Jewels caught on to Morgan's trick and quickly scampered to another room! Rats! Stumped again! There's no getting past that cat's radar-like abilities.

A Blessed Month

2010-10-04T19:54:00.000-07:00

From June to July, from July to August, from August to September and now from September to October. How can it be that Morgan is already four months old? Before I officially say hello to October (my favorite month of the entire year)...let me relish in September just a wee bit longer.

September was the month...

Morgan met fall weather...

Morgan cut her first TWO teeth...

Morgan learned to roll onto her side (not quite onto her stomach yet)...

Morgan took her first plane ride...

Morgan discovered football (and her dad's insane passion for yelling at his team)...

Morgan first giggled...

Morgan entered into official 6 month old size clothing...

Morgan discovered her feet (and tasted her own toe jam)...

Morgan sat upright in her Bumbo chair (although her neck tires out quickly)...

Morgan learned to remove her pacifier from her mouth (since she holds it the wrong way when trying to re-insert it into her mouth, she becomes quite frustrated with herself. We call it her "dumb blonde" moment when she holds the pacifier backwards)!...

Morgan grasped the bottle and helped mama out during feedings (her grip has become quite forceful - I think I have a stubborn child in the making. Wherever did she get that trait)?...

Morgan faced front in her infant carrier (now she's up close and personal with the sink and our dirty dishes)!...

Thank you God for blessing us with Morgan for another healthy & happy month. Although we often grow weary of her (loud) whines and yelps and roll our eyes if she wakes us before 5 a.m., we wouldn't change it for the world.

Happy 4 months of life!!! xoxo

Football, Family and Digits

2010-09-17T08:41:00.001-07:00

Morgan has had a wild few weeks. She was introduced to football Saturday and was a good sport when we labeled her a MI fan for the morning game

and a Sooner fan for the evening game.

Both teams won so thank you Morgan for being our good luck charm!

Morgan successfully completed her first plane ride last week as we jetted off to Michigan to see family and to celebrate Will's 31st birthday. To say Morgan was awesome on the plane (both ways) is an understatement. Sitting on pins and needles, for close to a month, thinking about traveling with a baby had my stomach in knots by the time we entered the DIA airport. However, Morgan's ability to take on and master a new challenge has us in amazement most days. People were complimenting us when we departed the plane stating they didn't even realize a newborn was on the flight. A big sigh of relief was my response!

Morgan met her great-grandparents, a few other extended relatives and some family friends while in Michigan.

She was reunited with her adorable cousin, Maria, as well.

I know they will have tremendous fun together when they're old enough to play. Maria seems most amused with Morgan and enjoys touching her face with her fingers and with kisses.

Rachel, Maria, Grandma Becky, Morgan and I visited a cider mill near Jackson and spent a few hours eating fresh doughnuts, visiting with the four animals in the petting zoo and touching the apple trees in the orchard.

To our disappointment, there was no fresh apple cider. The owner's sister had died and her funeral was taking place that very afternoon so maybe another time I'll get to sample some freshly-made cider. That could definitely be a great tradition to start every time we visit home. The fresh air and "country'ish" feel the farm exuded was a relaxing way to welcome in autumn time and say good bye to summer.

The rest of the weekend was spent cheering on our football teams and just enjoying down time at home with the family.

We returned to Denver on Sunday night and Morgan is back to her old routine. She has officially discovered her toes and likes to show off her flexibility by stuffing her big toe into her mouth (guess that is a nice change of pace after sucking on her fingers all day).

Next stop....Oklahoma in October.

Grasping

2010-08-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

Morgan officially learned how to grasp a toy this week. Of course, the mesh block went straight to her mouth but her little fingers are now working in sync with her brain...."I want that toy, I'll reach for that toy and by God I'll get that toy!"

What will be truly amazing is when she starts reaching for the remote control when daddy turns on 'Family Guy'.....that's next on our list to learn.

Weekend of the Godfather

2010-08-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Morgan met her uncle Jeff this past weekend (aka: The Godfather). Needless to say, she was putty in his hands. She sure loves her Jansen men!

The weekends always seem to fly by when family is in town but we enjoyed watching the sun set out back over the mountains and we enjoyed way too much food (yep, I had an upset stomach after too much red meat consumption).

Morgan enjoyed her first visit to a BBQ joint in Parker (Hickory House). I think smelling the slow-cooked pork and savory sauces made her hungry too because she wanted her bottle pretty much the entire meal. It sure is hard to enjoy a messy pork sammy with only one free hand but I made it work. Will snarfed down his meal so he could help. We make a pretty good team I must admit.

We miss you Jeff. Hope you can visit us again soon....or better yet, move out here!

Chunky Brewster

2010-08-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

13 pounds, 1 oz is Morgan's most current weight. She grew 2.5" inches in the last month and is currently 24.5" long! She's in the 97-99th percentile for height and is in the 90th percentile for weight. Our little chunky brewster is growing fast! She wailed for less than a minute when she got her first round of vaccinations. She fell into the comfort of her dad's embrace and was fast asleep before we even left the doctors office (guess napping is her coping mechanism like it is mine).

Napping with dad

The art of doing nothing (yep, napping again)

Meeting Tavi (godmother) & Livi

Two months of happiness

2010-08-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Being at home full-time means I have numerous opportunities to capture Morgan's beauty in one homemade photo session after another. Proud parents can never have too many photos of their baby, right?

Morgan passed the two month mark and with that achievement comes gurgling and cooing sounds on a daily basis. Her mouth puckers up into a small "o" shape as she attempts to communicate...sometimes it takes several attempts before a sound even registers. She tries so hard! I think she amazes herself at all the sounds that come out of her mouth - she's even perfected the shrill scream that would make dogs howl and scratch their ears. Upon waking up from a nap, she is all smiles when she sees us pop up over her crib and she has now figured out that her tiny fingers taste pretty good when neither a bottle or pacifier are nowhere to be found. Morgan adores her calming vibrations bouncy seat and falls asleep in it quite frequently. We place her in that when we eat dinner and/or clean the kitchen and want her nearby. We keep telling her that in a few years, she too will be in front of the sink cleaning dishes...oh, happy day! She has perfected the art of sleeping and slept for 10 hours straight one night (again, oh happy day)! She has taken her second dip in the pool with dad and has taken about three baths with me in our garden-size bath tub. She is more calm in there than in her baby bath hammock. We attempted to weigh her on our home scale and we think she's approximately 13 pounds. We go in for her 2-month check up on Friday so I will get a more accurate weight at that time.

As for now, things are continuing to go great at home. Will and I are on track with staying healthy and exercising...I started back at kickboxing this past week. I turned in my two week notice at work and will remain at home with Morgan for her first year of life. That's our plan for now anyways. We just booked our tickets to return to Jackson, MI for Will's 31st birthday. This will be a wonderful time for Morgan to meet her great-grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and see the place where her dad grew up! Oh yeah, and football season will be in full swing by then so Morgan can sport her MI onesie and root dad's team on as they go up against Notre Dame!

Time for Dr. Phil

2010-07-30T13:33:00.001-07:00

3:00 is Dr. Phil Time

Preparing for an afternoon feeding in front of the tv

Meeting Cousin Maria

2010-07-28T08:17:00.001-07:00

Meeting cousin Maria, Uncle Mark and Aunt Rachel proved to be quite a fun weekend for Morgan. Maria was intent on getting her hands on Morgan as well as showering her with kisses. The words "gentle touches" were repeated throughout the weekend as Maria cuddled with her new cousin!

At one point, Maria climbed onto the edges of the bassinet, while Morgan slept, and hovered over her little cousin. During another trip to the bassinet, when Morgan wasn't inside, Maria climbed in and compared Morgan's pacifiers with her own...doing a little taste test to see which she preferred! Needless to say, she exited the bassinet with one of Morgan's pacifiers secured in her mouth!

Morgan and Maria took a dip in the pool with their daddy's over the weekend.

Although Maria is already a natural in the pool, Morgan was freaked out a bit by the initial touch of cool water on her skin. Initially she whimpered then she seemed to give in to the fun, new activity by closing her eyes, going stiff and allowing daddy to glide her through the pool.

It took about ten minutes before we called it a day and Morgan was passed out within a few seconds after exiting the pool.

Maria, on the other hand, didn't wait to leave the pool before taking a nap. She passed out in her mama's arms in the pool underneath her shade hat.

Rachel and I took the girls to the Southlands on Saturday and browsed through the farmer's market and a few baby stores. We had lunch, fed the girls and walked home in the warm sunshine. Each night was capped off with a fire out back watching the sun set over the mountains. We even saw Morgan's owl flying over the neighbor's house on Saturday night (I told Jewels to lay low & get indoors as she could look pretty appealing to an animal that hasn't eaten in awhile)! I haven't mentioned "Owlie" before....but I think of him as Morgan's personal mascot (thus some of the inspiration for her owl-themed nursery). Initially, we first saw Owlie perched on the neighbor's rooftop last August (the same time frame that Morgan was conceived). After that encounter, we didn't see him again until Morgan's birth. Since then, Owlie has returned to our neighborhood and we catch a glimpse every now & then as we walk around the neighborhood or sit out back. Wonder if Owlie knows we have replica's of him stuffed in Morgan's room? Bet he wouldn't be too thrilled about that!

All in all, it was a great weekend with family. Although Morgan can't verbalize her feelings yet (unless you count yelps and gurgles as words), I know she enjoyed meeting Maria. Jewels, on the other hand, stayed clear of Maria's grasp! She's not the most social of pets.

Morgan is now seven weeks old and as the scale said last night, she is approximately 13 pounds! She is sleeping less during the day, staying up til' midnight and is eating about the same as usual. She enjoys staring out the window after her feedings while perched on our chests. The best part of my days with her at home are the naps we take in the afternoon....she curls up in my arm and we rest together under the cool fan for a few hours. I read to her occasionally but her focus on the colorful pages doesn't last long. I've perfected the art of feeding her with one hand and playing domino's on-line with friends in the afternoon (mainly Fua and Kelli). It's a nice outlet for me to stay connected with the world.

Tummy Time, Take 2

2010-07-21T16:16:00.001-07:00

Slowly working those neck muscles...

and tongue muscle!

Dad's chest is a good practice mat

In just 6 weeks

2010-07-15T16:05:00.000-07:00

As tomorrow turns into exactly six weeks since Morgan's birth, I can't help but smile at all the little quirks she has acquired in such a short time span. From her first video in the hospital right after her delivery (total silence) to her afternoon "hungry face" episode taken today (piercing screams), Will and I can't help but feel fortunate to have such a healthy baby who knows how to grab our attention when she needs something!

First Play Date!

2010-07-15T15:30:00.001-07:00

Could Timo look any happier?

Morgan had her first official play date this week with Safeeya, who is
older than Morgan by approximately 3 weeks. Although you can't really tell in this photo, Morgan outweighs Safeeya by a few pounds already even though she is younger. While Morgan sports a 3-month old outfit, Safeeya is still in newborn attire!

Naptime = Bonding Time
With Shadhaa & Yasmine

Lots of lovin' from Fua

All in the family

2010-07-12T11:52:00.001-07:00

As part of turning five weeks old this past week, Morgan celebrated in style by meeting more family...this time, family that actually resides in Colorado! Being so far away from our parents and siblings, Will and I have grown accustomed to relying on each other for companionship, entertainment and well, pretty much everything! It's a difficult process when family does come into town because we always dread the tearful departures that mark the end of our time together. It never gets any easier even after living here for seven years. Now with Morgan in our lives, it makes the separation from family even more difficult. Will and I want Morgan to experience the close bond we share with our families and that is hard to expose her to when they are thousands of miles away. Sooooooo, we do what we can to stay in touch...whether it is traveling by plane, train or automobile (ok, well not by train but rather by computer via Skype)! It is times like these where I wish for the magical power to snap my fingers and be anywhere in an instant. Oh, to be a super hero!

Over the weekend, Morgan met Joe & Alice Springfield, our extended family in Fort Collins (about an hours drive from our home). Alice is the niece of great grandpa Fischer so in a nutshell, she is Morgan's 3rd cousin.

Alice & Joe Springfield

With Grandma and Alice

Grandma Becky was in town again so we shared an afternoon of good conversation and good food with the Springfield's. Morgan was a sweet angel and only whined once when we sat down to eat lunch and left her in the pack & play crib. Apparently, she felt left out and wanted to be included at the table so I fed her while trying to eat my sandwich with one hand. Not an easy task I might add!!

The rest of the weekend was spent reading, drinking wine with Grandma Becky and transplanting mint from one garden to another in the backyard. We attempted to visit the swimming pool but Morgan wasn't having any of this "napping in the 90-degree heat" so her yelps for attention shortened my afternoon in the sunshine!

We captured a few "family moments" by camera while Grandma Becky was here. Pretty much Will and I look the exact same in every single photo but Morgan's facial features steal the limelight!

Morgan and her #1 finger pose

Cute but looking worried

Meltdown city!!!!

The one-month mark

2010-07-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Thirty days have gone by since Morgan came into our life. It is surreal how time has past by so quickly and yet it seems that she has always been a part of our family. Maybe I'm biased but I feel like Will & I fell into the role of parents pretty naturally without faltering hardly at all (Morgan makes it pretty easy for us though as she is a mild mannered baby). Since her birth, she has met both sets of grandparents, Uncle David and my friend from work, Sherry. There is still a list of people waiting to visit her later this month...she is one popular lady! Now I grasp the concept of what others said to me during my pregnancy...."enjoy pampering yourself now because once Morgan is here, nobody will care about seeing you....it'll be all about her!!!!!"

Grandma & Grandpa Jansen

Grandma & Uncle David

Hanging with the boys

Meeting Sherry

We attempted to celebrate Morgan's one month anniversary with fireworks for the 4th of July but it rained cats & dogs from the late afternoon through the night. Therefore, I was forced to entertain her inside which meant.....you guessed it....another homemade photo shoot! One can never have enough pictures of their baby, right? I propped Morgan up on our couch and got a few good snapshots of her before she slowly slid to the side and ate a mouthful of fabric on her way down!

Will and I watch Morgan blossom into more of a little person every single day. It seems that her facial features have matured and changed dramatically since our time in the hospital just one month ago. We're still debating on whose features she has. Will says her eyes, nose and ears (gee, thanks....her ears) resemble me but I still see Will's features mostly. You be the judge.

Will as a newborn and toddler

Some toddler pictures of Sara

Mimicking Morgan

2010-07-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

Morgan got a little taste of what she sounds like from dad the other night. Boy, was she stunned to hear the competition. It didn't stop her from yelling for more food but for a moment in time, Morgan's vocal cords went dry from sheer shock!

Experiencing the calm before the storm = $10 for formula

Dad's impersonation of Morgan's holler = $4 for ear plugs

Seeing the look on Morgan's face after the hollerfest = PRICELESS

Now if only all evenings could end like this....

Tummy Time, Take 1

2010-06-28T17:19:00.000-07:00

Since Morgan's umbilical stump (aka: brown nub) fell off Saturday, I attempted to place her on the cupcake boppy pillow for tummy time! She lasted for about two minutes before breaking into a blood-curdling scream when she went face down into pure pillow!

Ah, there's always tomorrow....

Gotta love baby cousin, Maria

2010-06-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

Morgan's 9 month old cousin who lives in
Michigan! She is infamous for her creative & artistic
posters....such talent at such a
young age!

Another week older...

2010-06-21T09:48:00.001-07:00

Last week held many accomplishments for Morgan. She turned two weeks old on Friday; she got to visit with Grandma Paty and Papa Pete for six whole days while they were in town; she gave daddy a very special Father's Day; and most remarkably, she got to flap her left arm freely as her collarbone is now healed! Boy, was she happy to make use of that new-found limb!

Grandma Paty and Papa Pete surprised us with a new front porch filled with flowers, wicker furniture (so we can enjoy the afternoon shade) and a fresh coat of paint on the porch rails. It brought tears to my eyes to see all of this done out of love for their new granddaughter. I can tell Morgan loves the gentle breeze on her face already and our porch is an ideal place for her feeding sessions. And a great place for mama to get some fresh air!!!!

Morgan with her new stuffed owl from great aunt Sandye & great uncle Mac!

Lots of wardrobe changes at this photo session made Morgan one
cranky gal!

To officially start off Father's Day in a great way, Morgan slept peacefully through the night for six hours straight. THAT is a huge present in itself! We made breakfast for Will then took him on a picnic and to the pool. Morgan and I lounged while Will swam laps and enjoyed the crisp, cool water. It seems that Morgan really enjoys her stroller/car seat and falls immediately asleep when we begin a walk. She woke up, for just a few minutes, during our picnic so Will walked her around the grassy area until she dozed off again! Such a good baby - she slept the rest of the afternoon (and so did mama after we returned home from the pool)!

At the park behind our house

All in all, Morgan finished off another wonderful week of life. Now 17 days old, Morgan weighs 9 lbs, 14 ounces. She lost a bit after birth (which is to be expected) but is now eating her weight in breast milk & formula! She'll be 10 pounds in no time!!!!

The hungry face!

One week old!

2010-06-12T13:57:00.001-07:00

Yesterday marked the 1 week milestone of Morgan's birth...exactly seven days ago that she graced us with her presence and changed our lives only for the better! Happy 1 week Birthday little baby!

Coffee in bed with daddy

All dolled up

Enjoying the rainy afternoon with mommy

This time last week

2010-06-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

This time last week, I was pregnant with Morgan and eight days past my due date.
This time last week, I was racked with excitement, fear of the unknown and anxiety.
This time last week, Will & I headed off to Parker Adventist Hospital.
This time last week, we were settled into room #19 to embrace the beginning of parenthood.
This time last week, we rubbed my pregnant belly good-bye and said a small prayer that Morgan would be delivered to us in exceptional health.
This time last week, I entered into seven hours of labor with Will by my side.
This time last week, at exactly 4:19 pm on Friday, June 4, 2010, we became the parents of Morgan Lindsay Jansen!

9 pounds, 7 ounces and 22 inches long

Amazing how life can change in less than a week. We entered the hospital as a couple about to celebrate our 3rd wedding anniversary and within one day we became a family overcome with love for one another.

Grandma Paty flew into town for Morgan's delivery.

These past few days have been consumed with learning Morgan's needs for food, sleep and diaper changes. She makes it pretty clear when she needs something though. At the time of her delivery, Morgan's left collar bone was broken due to her size (much bigger than expected) and my incapacity to deliver a baby of her weight. It is something that will heal itself within two weeks but for now Morgan has a homemade taped-up sling to keep her arm secured to her body.

Morgan had her first taste of bath time yesterday. We washed her hair and laughed as she screamed through the entire process...well, she stopped once she was safe inside her warm turtle blanket.

Will and I happily celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary last night by opening a magnificent bottle of champagne that we received from a friend at our wedding. We made a toast to our fortunate lives and our new beautiful daughter. Life is good. Life is very, very good.

5 hours til' check in....

2010-06-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

5 hours til' check in at the hospital to be induced. Our scheduled arrival time is for 8 pm. Right now Will and I are sitting at home, trying to relax and mentally prepare for all that we are about to experience. Trying to nap was pointless. I cried for a few minutes (my nerves and anxiety have the best of me) and then I gave Will a purple nurple on his nipple, made myself laugh into hysterics and then coaxed him out of bed to play Mario Kart in order to take my mind off tonight's event.

I met with Dr. Leman this morning to check on Morgan's activity and heartbeat. She is still doing good. Morgan had the hiccups during a portion of the testing so my stomach was bumping to the beat of her hiccups! It was documented on the testing graph! I am dilated to almost 3 cm and I actually lost one pound since my last appointment (so my total weight gain with Morgan is 40 pounds)! Honestly, not quite sure how the weight loss happened?!?!

Tonight I start off with one drug that will be inserted into my cervix to allow it to "ripen" more and hopefully trigger more contractions. In the morning, Dr. Leman said I will be given another drug (through an IV - YIKES!) to further induce me, if necessary. She is on call tonight so if things move quicker than imagined, she will be there to deliver Morgan. That is a relief. If she arrives tomorrow morning to work and I am still not on the brink of labor then she will break my water and we'll anxiously await Morgan's arrival, whether that occurs Friday morning, afternoon....or worst case, Friday night!

So, it's officially GOOD BYE to my Buddha belly, GOOD BYE to my first pregnancy and HELLO to our little girl, Morgan Lindsay! Pray for us.....xoxo

Due Date - Come & Gone

2010-05-28T17:16:00.000-07:00

I am now 40 weeks and 2 days pregnant with Morgan. I sat idly by at home as my due date came and went this week (yes, I'm officially at home...no more work). I know the date is just an educated guess from my doctor based on when my last menstrual cycle possibly occured. However, what is more bittersweet than chanting that special date in your mind over & over for nine months only to see it drift by without a moments hesitation?!?!?!

I visited with Dr. Leman yesterday and decided not to be induced this week because I felt only giving Morgan two days leeway to make her way into this world wasn't very patient of me. I honestly do not want to force my body into labor if I don't have to and because Dr. Leman feels comfortable allowing me more time, I rescheduled my induction to next Friday, June 4th. So if Morgan hasn't made her appearance naturally by that time then I will have to force my body into labor - which I will deal with when the time comes!

My overall doctor appointment went well. I am still holding strong at 41 pounds of weight gain for my entire pregnancy and I am still dilated at 2 cm. I had a stress test completed to ensure Morgan was healthy enough, and not in danger, of being in my tummy incubator for another week. She passed with flying colors! And Dr. Leman said I am having regular contractions, although they aren't very strong, but at least my body is consistently preparing for child birth.

Today Will and I worked out in the yard for about six hours in 93 degree weather hoping this strenuous exercise would help entice Morgan out! She is quite active this evening in my stomach and I have had several small contractions after being on my feet for so long so maybe that's a step in the right direction. A girl can only do so much.

We're here, Morgan, and we're waiting for you patiently (well, sort of)....

I've been stripped!

2010-05-21T11:13:00.001-07:00

My membranes were officially stripped by Dr. Leman this morning! She did a gentle version of this procedure and got me dilated to 2 cm! The nice thing was that she completed the procedure without me even knowing! She could tell I was nervous so she proceeded with the normal pelvic exam and then had her way with my membranes! It wasn't bad at all....I survived!!!

I've gained 1 pound since my last visit so to date, that's 41 pounds gained for dear ol' Morgan. My blood pressure is still good and Morgan's little heartbeat is as strong as ever.

Dr. Leman will only allow me to go over my due date by one week. My eyes bulged out of my head thinking of being pregnant for another twelve days. I know it doesn't sound like a long time after enduring nine months of pregnancy, but when you're down to the wire every single hour melts away slowly. Soooooooooo....I've set up my next appointment for Thursday, May 27th (one day after my due date). And I had Dr. Leman pencil me in for an induction on Friday, May 28th, should Morgan hold out that long. I left the appointment telling Dr. Leman I would see her after lunch since Will and I both have our fingers crossed that TODAY is the day!

At this point, I've eaten lunch and I'm still at home! Guess we'll take a few long walks in the warm sunshine to rev up the contractions and possible delivery of Morgan Lindsay!

Happy Weekend!

Stretched to the Limit!

2010-05-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

Tick Tock goes the clock....7 days left until my due date! 39 weeks along as of today...

Fashionista in the making!

2010-05-15T17:27:00.001-07:00

I purchased Morgan's first swimsuit today since summer is just around the corner! We're hoping to utilize our neighborhood pool soon (once the Denver sun decides to show its face for more than a fleeting moment).

Won't Morgan look just darling in this ensemble? A lil' fashionista in the making...

11 days left...

2010-05-15T06:27:00.000-07:00

This past week was marked full of special events for Will and I: My first Mother's-Day-To-Be and our 38 week appointment with Dr. Leman.

Will has been extremely attentive throughout my entire pregnancy but for Mother's Day weekend he treated me even more lavishly by making me breakfast, lunch and dinner and surprising me with roses and a sweet card (which I cried at while reading....thank you sappy, overcharged hormones)! My favorite meal was the orange zest french toast with powdered sugar that he woke me up with on Mother's Day morning (sitting at the table drooling and waiting for the food to arrive was how this story really occurred)!

Yesterday was our 38 week appointment which means I am 11 days away from my due date. I've gained nothing since my last appointment so I'm holding strong at 40 pounds and....(drum roll please)....I am now dilated to 1.5 cm. I still had this notion that I would be at 3 cm and Dr. Leman said she even tried to manipulate my cervix so that I would be at 2 cm, but it didn't work - 1.5 cm was all I was going to get! She mentioned that at my next appointment, May 21st (the day Will has guessed will be Morgan's true birthday) she can strip the membranes which would help "move me along" in regards to hitting my due date. So during my pelvic exam, she would swipe a finger across the membranes that connect the amniotic sac to the uterus which is one way of inducing labor. Of course I had to ask how long this process would take and if it would hurt. It sounded completely gross and unnatural! Dr. Leman said it would take a "tad bit longer" than the normal pelvic exam and it would be somewhat uncomfortable but not unbearable. My response, "Does a tad bit longer mean 10 minutes....does it mean I can polish off a magazine while you're down there?" I needed specifics! She laughed and said she wasn't that cruel - it would only last a few minutes at the most! My final question was, "Is this optional or a required procedure?" It is optional so now I have an entire week to sit and think about my options regarding if I want my membranes stripped! Ouch!

Before leaving the appointment, Dr. Leman said she is on call all of next weekend so if I go into labor after hours/on the weekend, she'll be the doctor delivering Morgan. That would be ideal!!!! So hopefully if Morgan makes her appearance soon, it will be during that time frame as we feel very comfortable with Dr. Leman and her staff.

Last night my question to Will was "Will this be the last weekend of our lives that we aren't parents?" So we shall see...

One is the loneliest number...

2010-05-06T19:32:00.000-07:00

Still at 1 centimeter! That's what I confirmed today at my 37-week doctor appointment. I was prepared to hear that I was dilated to 3, but no.....still at 1. For some reason, the number 3 was stuck in my mind. Well, I did gain three pounds since last weeks appointment so maybe that's where the number comes into play!

When I got home from the appointment, I laid down for a nap with Will (after consuming cheese, pepperoni and a cupcake)! My lower belly started fluttering (no it wasn't gas)...it felt like a pulse, a heartbeat. Will and I soon realized that it was Morgan and she had the hiccups!!! It lasted for about five minutes but it was the weirdest sensation originating below my skin.

Within the last week, I've found that when I am experiencing a contraction, it helps if Will lightly rubs his fingertips over my stomach, tickling me ever so slightly. I begin concentrating on this gentle touch versus the intense pressure. As for Jewels, she has regressed to being a needy kitten again, insisting on nightly naps not just on my belly and chest but on my shoulder with her face pressed against mine. ha! Still territorial after all these years...

May...The month of Morgan!

2010-05-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

36 weeks of pregnancy - that's where I stand today. Although the extra pounds have definitely altered my lifestyle (I huff & puff just getting out of bed in the morning), overall my pregnancy with Morgan has been peaceful and smooth sailing. I honestly can't complain about a single thing! Thank you lil' baby for being so good to me...

Friday was my 36 week appointment with Dr. Leman, also the last time Will and I would capture Morgan on an ultrasound. The excitement of the appointment was in the air as we drove to the clinic and prepared ourselves to see a big ol' baby on the screen! And that was just the image we saw - Morgan's chunky cheeks and big rounded belly (these were the exact words from the nurse). We laughed knowing that the chunky cheeks definitely come from Will's side of the family. Morgan's Uncle Mark is known for his classic hunka' chunka' cheeks when he was young. So, of course, the nurse captured this image on film (hope you can see the images clearly on here).

Although she didn't capture it on film, the nurse caught Morgan sticking her tongue out during the ultrasound. It only occurred for a split second but it was a hilarious image. Last time we had an ultrasound, we thought she was flipping us off so apparently Morgan is quite the character already (if she's anything like me then boy, will I have my hands full)!

Morgan is now estimated to be 6 lbs/9 oz and is in the 56th percentile of development for her age group. Her positioning is head down still (facing my back) with her butt up against my right rib and her little feet curled over to my left side (so almost in the shape of a "C"). That means the constant movement I feel under my stomach scar, underneath my left rib, are most likely her feet...that seems to be her favorite place to kick!

Since my last visit, I have gained 3 pounds so 37 overall and I am dilated 1 centimeter! I begin seeing Dr. Leman on a weekly basis starting next week. As of next Wednesday, I will be 37 weeks (aka: full term) so the reality of becoming new parents is really setting in. Only a few more weeks to rub my budhaa belly and anticipate holding Morgan. Only a few more weeks until she is home with us!

Showering Morgan...

2010-04-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

Last weekend marked my 34th week of pregnancy. With that milestone came another visit with Dr. Leman and the big moment most moms-to-be anticipate....their first baby shower! Both grandma's (Grandma Becky and Grandma Paty) flew into town on Wednesday night then came to my visit with Dr. Leman so they could hear Morgan's heartbeat. We got to share in the news together that Morgan has dropped and is still in good position for delivery. Her little head is stuck in place which means she won't be going anywhere but OUT! The next visit with Dr. Leman, in two weeks, will be the last time Will and I see Morgan until she makes her big debut so we are very excited to get one last ultrasound completed. I have only gained one pound since my last visit so my weight is tapering off.

As for Morgan's shower, it was held last Saturday (April 17th) at our home. We were blessed with a partly sunny day with a few sprinkles of rain and gusts of wind and wonderful company from a variety of friends. The grandma's created three cupcake bouquets for dessert and made an abundance of food featuring picnic items that I wanted - hearts of palm salad, tabbouleh, sandwich wraps, a baby carriage made out of fruit, chips, trail mix and mints. The speciality drink was an Arnold Palmer mix (tea and lemonade) served in mason jars with fresh lemons and straws - this was my favorite item at the shower! We played one game (Who Knows Morgan Best?) and then opened gifts. Emmajyn, one of my friend's daughters, was my little helper throughout the gift opening process. She initially picked out which gift I would open and then became so engrossed in the process that she began unwrapping everything herself while quickly showing me what Morgan got! It was a whirlwind of tissue paper and gift wrap! She was moving so fast at one point that I had to open a window as I was starting to break a sweat! Hard to keep up with a four year old when you have a five pound baby weighing on your bladder! Needless to say, it was still fun and Emmajyn kept me on track by keeping the process flowing. After four hours, the shower came to an end (sniff sniff!). Will and I then jumped in front of the computer and attended the virtual shower on Skype hosted by the Michigan aunts, cousins and Grandma Fischer. I can't even begin to list all that we received but please know that her nursery is stocked with clothes, essentials, toys, stuffed animals and books at this point!!! So thank you everyone for showering her with love & baby goodies.

At this point, I am now 35 weeks along. On Wednesday night, I started having frequent Braxton Hix contractions, to the point that I phoned the on-call nurse for advice. Although I had four mini-"practice" contractions within 30 minutes, the nurse said my body was still just anticipating delivery and going through the normal motions of pregnancy. She told me to take a warm bath, drink some cold water and take Tylenol to help relax my uterine muscles. So I did and then I fell fast asleep! After that little scare, I decided to pack my bag (and Morgan's) for the hospital. Will assembled the stroller, activity jumper and bouncy seat...even the infant carrier is set up in his car. I spent most of today organizing Morgan's nursery one last time - washing all her clothes, organizing the diapers and ointments on the changing table and putting all her bath stuff in the hall closet.

Now we can relax just a little and know that all is ready to go for Morgan.....waiting seems to be the hardest part! Only a short while until she is here! We sure are ready to hold our baby girl!

Headed in the right direction...

2010-04-02T18:01:00.001-07:00

Today marks my 32 week appointment with Dr. Leman. It was the usual visit...weigh in, check my blood pressure then meet with the doc! I haven't gained any weight since my last appointment so I'm still holding strong at 140. The big topic of conversation consisted of my periodic cramping episodes at night...not only cramping in my legs but now in my hips (aka: butt cheeks)! The cramps aren't quite the severity of a charlie horse in your leg but just a dull pain in both hips after sleeping on my side all night. It's uncomfortable but I figured it is just the nature of the beast - I'm carrying 33 extra pounds and my body is bound to make some grunts & groans sometimes. Dr. Leman explained that the weight gain has off set my center of balance so my legs, back and yes, butt cheeks, are forced to shift into a new position trying to compensate for this change. In turn, when my muscles try to relax at night they may cramp up....pretty obvious explanation but it was nice to hear my cramps weren't anything unusual. Dr. Leman suggested consuming more potassium and leafy greens as well as stretching periodically throughout the day.

Then on to the best part of the appointment - hearing Morgan's heartbeat!!!! Dr. Leman said Morgan sounded very excited today. Her heartbeat was rapid but overall still very healthy. Not sure if Morgan was excited about the pb&j sammy I'd just consumed at lunch or if she knew we were listening so she was putting on a show! Either way, it was great confirmation to hear that little heartbeat of hers.

I asked Dr. Leman how Morgan was positioned because I can never tell if I'm feeling her head or butt protrude. She confirmed that Morgan's head is in the right position - pointing downward - while her butt is up toward my ribs. Morgan can roll from side to side and can still kick and punch but because room is an issue now in my uterus (because she is growing so much), Morgan is not doing flips and making such huge movements anymore. So this is good news - Morgan is in position for delivery and hopefully will not move dramatically between now & then.

Morgan's reach has lengthened. I feel her kicks and jabs way over on the side of my body, no longer just in the center of my stomach. Often when I lay on my side at night, I feel her movements pushing against the pregnancy pillow (aka: my cheese wedge) that I have positioned under my belly as if she might move the pillow in order to make more room for herself! She's a feisty one!

I will see Dr. Leman again on Friday, April 16th, while both grandmother's are in town preparing for the baby shower. I want them to both attend the appointment so they can hear Morgan's heartbeat for themselves. Reading about it on this blog doesn't do it justice. I can't wait to share this with them.

Only 8 more weeks to go.....

Welcome to Morgan's Room!

2010-03-19T14:53:00.000-07:00

My mom was in town last weekend and we finished up Morgan's nursery! Mom made custom drapes for the bay window (decked out in old butons) and owl pillows; we made custom frames for childhood pictures (decked out in old buttons too); and we finished wallpapering the inside of the armoire. After adding some of my childhood stuffed animals, new toys and memento's inside, the armoire is officially complete. Don't some of the stuffed animals bring back memories from the 80's (Popple, Pound Puppies, Papa Smurf)! The blanket underneath the childhood photos is my "woobie" from way back when! It's over 32 years old and displayed with it is my father's baby shoe (over 60 years old - you're welcome dad)!

30 weeks into my Budhaa belly...

2010-03-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked my 30 week appointment with Dr. Leman. It was a quick, routine visit consisting of the infamous urine sample (Here'sssssssssssss Johnny!) and measurement on the scale. I am 140 pounds as of this week. I guess those 8-pound burritos that I inhale at Qdoba in one setting may be playing a factor in these luscious curves!

All is fine in pregnancy-land. I am on target with my blood pressure, glucose testing and weight and Morgan's heartbeat is steady and healthy. She should be over three pounds now however I won't have another ultrasound to confirm her weight until closer to my due date. I can't believe it's only 10 weeks away (give or take some days)!

My next appointment is in two weeks. Until then, here's to another fattening Qdoba burrito (I had one last night after the appointment)!

In the final home stretch - Third Trimester

2010-03-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday marked my 28th week appointment with Dr. Leman. A lot has gone on since my last appointment with her to make this time in my life fly by even more quickly then usual. Mom and Dad Jansen came to visit on Valentine's weekend, their first time to see our new home, and then I flew home the weekend after that for my 32nd birthday, the last time I would be home before becoming a mama. Mom Jansen and I played around at Babies R' Us trying to find the perfect infant carrier and stroller for Morgan. It's quite a hassle to sift through brands, styles and recommendations of others before making an absolute decision- they all seem to mesh together after awhile! But it was fun bugging the store clerks with our questions, concerns and requests for demonstrations! While in Sand Springs, mom and I came up with an idea to make a homemade owl for Morgan's room so with a bit of creativity and leftover fabric, Ollie the Owl was born! We toyed around with baby shower ideas and baby shower invites too. Both weekends were a nice retreat from the usual work week - being around family is always refreshing!

Since my last appointment my stomach seems to have grown overnight! Morgan's head and/or butt protrude at least once a day, making a nice, firm knot near my belly button region. When it first happened, I was laying in bed with Will watching tv. The sudden tightness in my belly and the knot suddenly appearing made me feel like I was watching a clip from 'Aliens' - surely I was about to see a creature emerge! After sliding out of bed on my back trying not to use any stomach muscles, so as not to wake the creature, I waddled to the bathroom mirror to see the bulge from all angles. I even got in the shower to massage it down thinking maybe I had pulled an intestine! Dramatic, yes, but also a first time mom so I was not prepped for this. Since that night, I have experienced the head/butt bulges from Morgan on a more frequent basis and now I embrace them. I like to think it is her head I'm cradling in my palm when it emerges - it is so tiny yet so strong in that Morgan is now making actual appearances under my skin versus just fluttering motions. I have also been experiencing Braxton Hix contractions these last few weeks where my uterus hardens and my stomach feels tight and swollen. The doctor said this is just my uterus' way of practicing for the big day and I should not be scared if I have this happen 4-5 times a day. Sometimes these contractions stop me in my tracks (literally!) - it is an odd pressure at the base of my belly but it normally lasts less than one minute. I guess since I'm less than 90 days away from delivery (if not sooner), it is time for my body to start mentally preparing!

So yesterday was a joyous appointment for both Will and I as we got to see Morgan again through an ultrasound. She was quite bashful in that she wouldn't put her fists down away from her face for the nurse to capture a true image of her profile...or maybe she was just being ornery. Will asked the nurse at one point if she was flipping us off because in one shot Morgan had a fist in her eye and in the second shot, she looked to have a finger raised! Ah, our little girl is growing up! The nurse reported Morgan to be at 2 pounds and 13 ounces which is in the 60th percentile of growth for a baby her age - she is right on track! The nurse checked my placenta position and confirmed it had moved away from my cervix which means no required c-section! How thankful we are for this! Lastly, the nurse said I was originally reported to be at 28 weeks and 2 days but I am actually at 28 weeks and 6 days. She didn't move my due date but said I was just a smidgen further along then they originally predicted!

After being weighed in at 134 pounds (sounds like a heavy weight boxer), Will and I ventured into other room where I would soon be poked and prodded further by another nurse. Yesterday was my big debut at the doctors office - I was being tested for gestational diabetes as well as being given a shot for the rh (-) blood factor I carry. Long story but because Will is blood type O+ and I am blood type O-, I had to receive this shot in case Morgan is blood type O+. That way my blood will not mix with hers at the time of delivery and cause complications. When I told the nurse how scared I was to have blood drawn she reassured me that if anything, I should be nervous about the shot I was going to receive! UHM, HELLO...what did you say? I asked Will if he heard that too. She had said it on her way out of the room as she went to get the sword-like needles that would soon enter my veins. Will said he had heard that same information so when she returned I said her relaxation techniques were not helping me in the least! I was now envisioning a shot in my stomach or in my face - a place that would be excruciating enough that she had been forced to share that not-so-nice comment with me. As I grew even more clammy, the nurse explained that the shot would be given in my hip and that that the injection was a cold substance so it burned underneath the skin. So with the visual in my mind of my hip bone being shattered by a needle, I looked away as she drew blood for the diabetes testing. I turned the pages of a People magazine and pretended to take interest in the best dressed awards as she tapped on my vein and drew blood. Then.....came the shot! I turned the other cheek (literally) and exposed my right butt cheek into the air for her to puncture. I did feel the burn of the injection but it wasn't that bad. I wanted to slap her for making the situation worse than it should've been.....but I didn't. I got a kick out of mooning her a bit during the injection. That's not a side just anyone gets to see!

To end our visit, Will and I met with Dr. Leman to discuss my bowel movements - yes, Will was squirming in his seat! We also got recommendations for pediatricians which will be our next step to conquer. Dr. Leman and I will now start seeing each other every two weeks instead of four. So my next visit is on Thursday, March 18th.

Morgan is approximately the size of a Chinese cabbage. She has grown eyelashes and can now open and close her eyes. Her and I have entered the final stage of pregnancy, our third trimester!!!

Color in the Nursery!

2010-02-07T15:51:00.000-08:00

After two days of being delayed in Tulsa due to a wintry snow & ice mess, my mom finally landed in Denver to help me begin the painting of Morgan's nursery. With crib bedding already on order, I had my mind set on the primary colors for one accent wall - a cowslip (mustard) yellow and porcelain pear (a soft olive green). And so began our excursions to Lowe's to buy the paint, brushes, drop cloths, and paint tape. One day was completely filled with just taping off the stripes on the wall - originally we considered five mustard yellow stripes but after experiencing the lengthy task of measuring and taping off one single stripe, we consolidated to three! I came to the conclusion that one big stripe right in the middle of the wall would be just fine with me. Not quite the look I was going for but my mind wanders when it comes to tedious tasks (needless to say, we stuck with three yellow stripes and it looks great)!

After painting a total of fifteen stripes on the wall (the olive green ones included), we were disappointed to see that our frog tape wasn't as durable as their ad described - the paint had bled just enough that we needed touch up paint now! Back to Lowe's we went. We got a refund on the tape, bought the original blue tape that we should've used as we had so many times before, and bought a small can of touch up paint and back to work we went. By that time, mom perfected the stripes and I was onto painting the armoire. Days later and after four coats of paint, the armoire was just how we envisioned. Mom had a great idea of wallpapering the inside shelves and back of the armoire so for now, it's not 100% complete but the wallpaper has been ordered and is on its way to Denver. In March, when mom visits again, that'll be our next project.

Today Will and I set up the crib and changing table (well, Will assembled while I dusted and moved the furniture around)!

Friday I had my 24 week appointment with Dr. Leman. I've only gained one pound since my last visit (I told you the snow shoes I wore last time packed on the pounds)! I am now 130 - gaining a total of 23 pounds thus far. Morgan's heartbeat is strong and I'm doing well. My next appointment is set for March 5th where I'll be tested for diabetes and also where I receive another ultrasound to check the positioning of my placenta. From a pregnancy book, I read Will all of the symptoms I could be experiencing this month and after he gagged a bit on some of the items (mainly at the mention of hemorrhoids and flatulence) I asked him to cut me some slack if I moved a bit slower these days or needed more leg rubs (hey, it says I could experience frequent leg and foot cramps)! Better that than hemorrhoids, right? :-)

My Sweet Papaya

2010-01-24T10:20:00.000-08:00

This marks my 22nd week of pregnancy and I'm starting to feel the aches and woes of it all - the rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath after completing the simple task of walking; the swollen pressure in my lower belly; the gurgling vibration of heartburn underneath my ribs; the restless nights where I am overwhelmed by pillow wedges stuffed between my knees and belly; and the virus that has re-entered my system restricting me from holding down food and liquids...thankfully this symptom is dwindling away after only a few days (Will is doctoring me back to health). However, I wouldn't change my situation at all as I continue to feel Morgan get stronger by the day with her jabs, punches and kicks. To me it is a blessing to feel her move. That's my way of knowing she is ok. This morning I even saw my stomach twitch when she moved - of course when I told Will to look, she stopped! Ornery already!

Morgan is now the size of a papaya (approximately 11" long and about 1 pound). She should be sleeping about 12-14 hours per day. Her lips, eyelids and eyebrows are becoming more distinct and she's even forming tooth buds beneath her gums. Morgan's eyes have formed but her irises lack pigment. Will and I both think she will have Will's chocolate brown eyes and my crazy, curly blonde hair.

Quite a bit has been accomplished since I last blogged - most importantly, Morgan's nursery colors and theme are FINALIZED! Yes, the theme includes owls (not a big surprise) and the color palette consists of woodsy/serene browns, cremes, gold/yellows, burnt oranges and denim blue.

Both sets of grandparents blessed us with Morgan's first official pieces of furniture - a pack and play (with bassinet) and a dark walnut crib and matching changing table. THANK YOU!!!!

Painting of the nursery starts next weekend while my mom is in town.....

Dropping the Baby J name...

2010-01-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

Our vocabulary expanded this week - dropping the Baby J name and finally speaking the words 'Morgan Lindsay' was such a monumental moment for us both. Just to have certainty...we were both so anxious to find out if Baby J would be a girl or boy. And Friday, after waiting for twelve weeks, we finally received the news!

The transformation of our tiny baby turning into this healthy 12 ounce girl was a step beyond surreal. Will and I attended our 20-week appointment and had an ultrasound completed that revealed Morgan Lindsay to be developing right on target. The nurse took over thirty photos of Morgan's development which gave us the opportunity to observe her kicking and squirming as well as see all of her organs and bones. She is an active kicker. Her legs look so strong!

She has all ten fingers and toes and her profile is very defined. One of the photos taken looks as if Morgan is posing - her chin resting on her fist with the other arm draped dramatically on the top of her head.

We could even see the tiny beats of her heart on the screen. It was simply amazing how close we felt to Morgan during that time. Seeing her up close like that reassured me that all is well in my belly and that she is thriving. We hadn't seen her since my initial ultrasound at 8 weeks.

We met with Dr. Leman after the ultrasound. Since my placenta is touching my cervix, Dr. Leman plans on monitoring this for the next eight weeks. If my placenta doesn't shift, at least by 2 centimeters, then I will have to deliver Morgan by c-section. Dr. Leman reassured us that this happens frequently in pregnant women and normally when the uterus grows to accommodate the growing baby, the placenta will stretch and move away from the cervix. So my placenta better get a move on in the next eight weeks!

I am now 129 pounds - I gained seven pounds since my last visit. I blame my heavy snow boots on adding three pounds to the scale though! Morgan is officially 12 ounces and is the size of a banana (or as I like to say...'naner).

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010

2010-01-03T07:36:00.000-08:00

This has been quite an eventful decade for me...for us.

May 1, 2000 - Graduated college

April 30, 2003 - Moved to Colorado

June 6, 2005 - Met Will

February 21, 2006- Got engaged

June 9, 2007 - Got married

June 6, 2009 - Purchased our first home

October 17, 2009 - Found out that I'm pregnant

To start a new year, a new decade, is both bittersweet and exhilarating. With all of this already on our side, what more could we be blessed with?

As the first few days of January are upon us, I am rounding out my 19th week of pregnancy. This means that Baby J is now the size of a large heirloom tomato (guess not just any old tomato, but an heirloom tomato). That's approximately 8.5 ounces in weight and 6" in length. Baby J is sprouting little buds of hair and his/her sensory development, in regards to smell, taste, hearing, vision and touch, is becoming more refined. To my enjoyment, Baby J can now make out our voices so I've been testing out my vocal cords by singing as well as playing a variety of music as a way to introduce Baby J to all that is out there (minus country music...I still have my limits). As for my singing....let's just say that if you've ever heard Grace belt out a melody from an episode of 'Will & Grace' then you've pretty much experienced my solo act. It always sounds better in your head, right?

Although my symptoms are minor compared to others, my biggest complaint is that my skin is sooooo itchy! I've soaked in oatmeal baths, I've lathered up with baby soap containing oatmeal, I've doused myself down with cocoa butter and yet I still wake up itching and scratching! I know the itchiness just means my skin is stretching and preparing me for motherhood but alright already!!!! I could consider this a new pasttime in my life - scratching!

I completed the tedious task of finding a new bra to accommodate my enlarged, itchy ta-ta's! The maternity/nursing bras currently available in stores are not only unflattering but tissue paper thin. They sag in places I don't want sagging quite yet and are just completely useless, in my opinion. So I opted for a simple bra that has no underwire, tags or cleavage-enhancing equipment...just give me non-scratchy comfort please! Will headed to another department while I frantically searched for the perfect bra. Approximately one hour later, I emerged from the lingerie section with a smile on my face and a boulder holder in my hand! Will said he was praying for the sweet release of death - yeah, shopping is not his forte especially on a Saturday morning when he could be at home watching....you know it....FOOTBALL!

For New Years Eve 2009, Will and I stayed at home and watched movies in our pj's. I chose the movie 'Paranormal Activity' so Will begrudgingly watched the movie all the while scowling at me. Movies based on the supernatural freak Will out. I attempted to make the atmosphere less scary by turning on the lights and talking throughout the movie but Will didn't buy it - he was sending me an icy, death stare for the entire 1 hour and 42 minutes that the movie played. During parts of the movie where the sound was extremely loud, I felt Baby J kick, punch or squirm (not sure which). My first official "feeling" of Baby J's movements! Will felt it too and said Baby J was trying to get my attention to say "TURN OFF THIS STUPID MOVIE"!!!! Since that time, I've felt a few more fluttering movements from Baby J. It is quite amazing to feel life forming inside me.

This coming Friday, January 8th, is when we find out the sex of Baby J. Just five more days. Will and I are so ecstatic to see our baby again through an ultrasound. To find out the sex is just icing on the tasty cake!

O' Christmas Tree

2009-12-29T18:37:00.000-08:00

Week 18 - Christmas 2009 with Baby J

From turnip to sweet potato

2009-12-24T09:28:00.000-08:00

Baby J has blossomed from a turnip to a sweet potato as I enter into week 18 of my pregnancy which means he/she is approximately 7 ounces. Baby J went from moving his/her joints and producing sweat glands last week to being able to flex leg and arm muscles now. Wonder if that means Baby J is in flex mode like those bulky muscle men you see on tv? Is anyone looking for tickets to the GUN show?

I can't believe today is Christmas Eve 2009. Will and I are both home for four days to celebrate Christmas together in relaxation mode. We are already daydreaming of what traditions we can initiate next year once Baby J is with us. Since it will only be seven months into Baby J's life, the vision of seeing him/her running down the stairs to open gifts from St. Nick is highly unlikely so we settled on the yearly tradition of reading 'The Polar Express' to Baby J instead. I've had that book stored in my hope chest, along with other classics, since my early 20's knowing one day I would introduce my child(ren) to the wonderful world of books and reading. Still one of my favorite past-times.

As an early Christmas present, my parents came to visit last weekend. This was their first time to see the Baby J bulge my stomach has turned into. Well, bulge might be a strong word but my stomach is definitely protruding and fighting against my pants button and zipper! Fortunately my parents came to the rescue and filled my closet with maternity clothes! That was my Christmas present which couldn't have come at a better time. Elastic-waist corduroy pants...where have YOU been all my life? Talk about comfortable! They purchased me 3 pairs - plum, khaki and charcoal grey!

While mom and I shopped, Will and dad did a few home projects one being the replacement of our chandelier in the stairwell. As a Christmas gift to ourselves, Will and I put money towards a rustic metal chandelier that matches our house decor and did away with the outdated gold and glass chandelier that was left over from the former owners. We tried to take my parents up to Georgetown to enjoy the old-fashioned town setting that is on display for the holidays, but because traffic was so congested we turned around and went to the Highlands instead. We treated my parents to a tasty mexican lunch at Julia Blackbird's! Yes, mexican food...always my family's #1 vote. We did some window shopping at a baby boutique but since we are still waiting to confirm the sex of Baby J, we steered away from purchasing anything quite yet. Although we had quite a bit of down time at home making fudge and peanut butter cookies, their time here quickly vanished. Before I knew it, they were on a plane back to Tulsa. Having them leave was even more difficult than usual. Trying to share such a joyous time in our lives with family so far away pulls at the heart strings even more so during the holidays. Nothing is more comforting in this world than to have the three (soon-to-be four) most important people in my life all under the same roof - knowing they are safe and that I am loved. Quite a blessing and definitely not taken for granted.

Merry Christmas to all our family and friends. We love you!

Did someone say GUAC?

2009-12-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

Thursday was my 16-week appointment with Dr. Leman. It's the last official appointment until my next ultrasound on Baby J...the last official appointment where I leave the office not knowing if I'm carrying a boy or girl. So my excitement level was up as I entered the doctors office. I was ready to hear Baby J's heartbeat and schedule my 20-week appointment where (drum roll please)....I will find out if we're having a boy or girl!!!

Each time I visit Dr. Leman I check in at the front desk then leave a urine sample in the bathroom. It is a funny routine - I flush the toilet then open the silver metal door to the left of the commode and leave my dixie cup of urine inside. Once I close the door, I only have to wait a few seconds until I hear the nurse open her door from the other side and collect my deposit. Maybe one of these times I will catch her off guard and keep my door open so that when she reaches inside to collect my urine sample, I will be there on the other side - "HERE'S JOHNNY"!!!!!

I stepped onto the scale and learned that I am now 122 pounds which means I have gained 15 pounds in my pregnancy. Dr. Leman was pleased to see I had only gained 5 pounds in the time we'd last seen each other. I told her I was no longer eating four meals a day and snacks - just three meals a day and snacks. I failed to mention that my three meals a day were a bit bigger in portion! We talked briefly about symptoms I am experiencing which are minimal. I still have heartburn on occasion so she did clarify that I can take Tum's. She also gave me a prescription for Zantac since heartburn only gets worse with pregnancy. She asked if I felt Baby J moving yet and I said no although I had a muscle twitch/spasm under my left rib the other day that sparked the curiosity in me - was Baby J moving that much that he/she had floated all the way up to my rib cage? I doubted it but told Dr. Leman anyway. She laughed and said Baby J isn't that active yet. He/she is still situated near my pelvic bone (about 1" underneath my belly button).

Dr. Leman placed the doppler on my stomach and found Baby J immediately. The sound of my baby's heartbeat filled up the room! Just as I smiled, Baby J moved and the heartbeat was lost. She moved the doppler to the left and there was that magnificent sound again! All is good in belly land - Baby J is healthy.

I got cleared to fly home in February to see my family during my birthday weekend! I can fly up to my 35th week of pregnancy but I doubt I push it to the limit. It will be a nice treat to go home one last time before I become a mama. I can still get away with being a "kid" again - sleeping in late, leaving my shoes in the hallway, running off after dinner and not helping with the dishes!

At 16-weeks Baby J is the size of an avocado! That's right - GUAC! One of my favorite dishes! He/she is approximately 4.5" inches long and will only double in size within the next few weeks.

My next appointment is on Jan. 8th where an ultrasound will be completed and the sex of Baby J will finally be determined!!!! The nurse will make a CD of ultrasound photos of Baby J's features and profile so I will share those with you next month.

My Shiny Apple

2009-12-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

Week 15 means Baby J is now the size of a shiny apple! Baby J's legs are growing more rapidly than his/her arms and all of his/her joints are moving now! Wonder if that means I should feel a punch soon? Baby J has attended kickboxing classes with me a few times....wonder if he/she picked up any of the moves? At week 15, Baby J's eyes are still fused shut but he/she can sense light. I heard if I put a flashlight to my stomach, Baby J would likely move away from the light. Will said "let's not irritate the baby quite yet, ok?" So much for experimentation...

I can now officially say I've experienced heart burn!!!! Since I can't take the pink stuff (Pepto) or Tum's, I drink milk to coat my stomach. It does the trick! Will says I should avoid spicy foods until I have Baby J. Uhm.....do you know who you're talking to? I'm the QUEEN of mexican food and spices. That'd be like telling a fat kid he can't enjoy cake anymore! I refuse to give up spicy foods (aka: mexican!) so I guess I'll just have to suffer through the heart burn aftermath.

We attended a baby shower this past weekend and my focus was centered on playing with Fua's twin girls, Toni & Tamia. Usually I can only get close to Tamia while Toni keeps a close eye on me and/or just plain avoids me. This time around, both girls let me snuggle with them before they both passed out in my arms (well, Toni did temporarily)! I received comments that because the girls were drawn to me and accepting of me that I must be having a girl. The twins currently avoid their aunt, who is pregnant with a boy, so this was an indication that I am NOT carrying a boy. Of course, I ran to Will and told him this prediction. What do you think he did though? That's right...the typical eye roll followed by the "I don't believe it" statement! I think Will is tired of the old wives tales and chinese predictions I keep putting in front of him! Guess I'll just suck it up and wait another five weeks for the precise verdict from our doctor.

We continue to debate on names. For a boy, it's Bradley vs Matthew and neither of us are budging for now. We are pretty much sold on Morgan Lindsay for a girl. We frequently discuss what features we think Baby J will take from each of us. If you know me, you know I have curly (often frizzy) fine, dry hair. Will, however, has coarse, thick, oily hair. I think my genes might win this round though - you can't fight the mad scientist hair!

My Lil' Lemon

2009-11-28T08:33:00.000-08:00

I'm in my 14th week now and officially sporting a belly band! This simple cloth band fits over the top of my pants so that I can unbutton them and continue wearing traditional clothes until maternity clothes become a necessity. It sure is nice to have some breathing room...most of my pants and jeans are snug now. If you grew up in the 80's, a belly band closely resembles a unit belt! Remember those?

My 14th week of pregnancy means that Baby J can suck his/her thumb, squint, frown, grimace & pee! Baby J is now the size of a lemon! My Lil' Lemon - approximately 3.5" in size.

This past week Will and I celebrated Thanksgiving in our new home. Although we were relieved that our holiday didn't consist of standing in the airport security line, we were sad not to have our family close by. It was a beautiful 60'ish degree day here in Denver so while the turkey baked, we sat on our porch and enjoyed the warm sunshine. We took a walk around the neighborhood and watched those that were already outside putting up their Christmas lights - can't we just enjoy Thanksgiving Day without rushing through it in order to proceed to Christmas? Geez. Will was successful in creating our first "bird"! It was delish as were the side items. Our friends, Erin & Adam came over later that night to enjoy some homemade dessert - pumpkin pie & caramel apple pecan pie.

Jewels was thoroughly exhausted from a hard day's labor in the kitchen! She passed out in front of the warm fireplace!!!

As we finished off Thanksgiving night, Will and I mentioned that this would be our last Thanksgiving meal just the TWO OF US. Our table was pretty empty - we sat at opposite ends with four empty chairs surrounding us. We both envisioned a table full of children and smiled knowing that Baby J will get to enjoy a piece of bird #2 this time next year!

My Lil' Lime

2009-11-13T17:10:00.000-08:00

Today was my 12-week appointment with Dr. Leman. Walking into the clinic with me was a mother of three boys (11 months, 2 years and 10 years old). I held the door open for her as she obviously had more to lug in then me with my Gap purse! We instantly struck up a conversation about her three children. She was a patient of another doctor in the clinic and she was coming in to show off her boys to the office staff. I asked her about the hospital overall and she had positive feedback. She even went so far as to recommend a pediatrician. After hearing her rave reviews I pulled out my pregnancy journal and wrote down notes! I know...always prepared. As she prepared to leave the office, her 2 year old boy, named Cale, came running across the room at me with his mouth puckered. He was blowing me kisses - didn't realize he actually wanted to plant them on my face! After four kisses and two small hugs, Cale and his family left. I started thinking...."Was that a premonition of what I'm having? Is it a boy?" Can you really have the look from a toddler? Was Cale looking into my soul and confirming what I so desperately want to know? Was I BOY BOUND?

Smiling from ear to ear from my encounter with Cale, I met with Dr. Leman. My blood pressure is low (good sign) and I'd gained another six pounds since my last visit. I'm now 117. Dr. Leman said for my body, I was gaining a tad more weight than I should at this point in the pregnancy. A safe gain was about one pound per week. Laughing, I told her I had incorporated a fourth meal into my day. She mentioned that eating snacks in between meals would curb my hunger. I said I already do snacks AND four meals. "Oh" she said! Dr. Leman advised me that twenty-five pounds is the standard weight I should gain over my entire pregnancy. At this point, I've gained ten pounds total but she chalked it up to my body catching up on nutrition since my virus.

Since I don't get another ultrasound until my 20th week, Dr. Leman used a doppler-like instrument on my tummy to hear Baby J's heartbeat. At first she moved the doppler from one side to another stating "Where are you fella? Where are you hiding?" She told me not to freak out...Baby J is so tiny at this point that finding the heartbeat may take a few moments. Nearing the bottom of my tummy, she found it! There was Baby J....just above my pelvic bone! The heartbeat sounded loud and clear on the doppler. I said "There he is - just hanging out!" The heartbeat was slower than before, but Dr. Leman said that was to be expected. Baby J is in good condition!

(I call Baby J my lil' lime now because in week 12, Baby J is about the size of a lime - just about 2" long).

My next appointment is in four weeks, December 11th. After that, THE appointment we're anxiously awaiting will be here....the appointment where we get to find out the sex of Baby J! Will and I are still conjuring up ideas on names that go well with Jansen. We butt heads often on our ideas but we have finalized a few good ones! We'll reveal that information after the sex is determined. Wonder if Jewels would mind sharing her name with a baby?????

Adventures in Toyland

2009-11-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend Will & I ventured into Babies R' Us for our first official parents-to-be shopping adventure. We wanted to check out prices and see what having a baby entailed. Will immediately had to drag me out of the girls clothing section - it was right by the front door, I couldn't help it! I was immediately drawn to a small section of newborn clothing with peace signs and neon colors (80's flashback, I know). Deciding not to waste money on buying anything gender-specific quite yet, we moved on to the other 699 aisles of the store. There was an entire aisle dedicated solely for BIBS! After looking at cribs, strollers, car seats, bouncy chairs, high chairs, rocking chairs, changing tables and play pens, I decided to look in the room decor for any creepy-eyed owls! I couldn't find a single one! That made me happy, just a tad, because I don't want my potential theme to be something just anyone can find. It needs to be unique!

Later on in the week, I received a gift in the mail from my parents. On their excursion to Canton, TX, my parents had a wonderfully creative Christmas ornament made for Will & I. It will go perfectly on our tree once we decorate for our first official Christmas in our new home. To go along with the ornament, I was given my first piece of maternity wear...a Christmas JOY shirt. So cute! Can't wait to break it in come Dec. 1st.

Another toy came in the mail today - a web cam from my parents. For all those weekend conversations we have over the phone....NOW we can talk face to face! I can show them my protruding belly on the cam too!!!

I went to the chiropractor today - my lower back feels as if it's bruised. Dr. Friedman calmed my nerves by saying he provides alignments and acupuncture on pregnant women up until their due date. He just alters the points in acupuncture since two particular points can cause contractions. I have been seeing Dr. Friedman for about two years and I completely trust my wellness to him so today I got an alignment in my neck, mid and lower back and had acupuncture done. He said my lower back will probably act up quite a bit once I gain more weight because of the severe curvature of my spine. But my pain is pretty minimal so far so I'm definitely not complaining...especially if I get to see Dr. Friedman for treatment every three weeks. Ah, heaven!

I am in the midst of my 11th week now. Will and I are anxious to know the sex of the baby!!!! I went so far as to get this result on-line through the Chinese birth calendar. Yes, it's for entertainment purposes only but it shows a 99% accuracy rate. It goes off of the month Baby J was conceived (August) and the age I will be once I give birth (age 32). The conclusion is I AM HAVING A GIRL!!!! Of course when I told Will that he replied "my awesome genes supersede any stupid Chinese calendar." So we're back to not knowing and sitting on pins & needles! So the journey continues....

The chosen room

2009-11-01T07:02:00.000-08:00

When we moved into our first home back in July, we knew right away which room would be classified as the "baby room." We chose the one right next to the master suite that has the only bay window in the entire house. I can envision the sun streaming in through those exact windows while a warm Denver breeze seeps in.

The room sits empty right now except for a beautiful creme chenille chair that my mother purchased at an estate sale in Oklahoma. It is a petite rocking chair that fits my body frame just perfectly. Will nor my dad are big fans and I know my dad was secretly happy to transport "that thang" from his house to ours! Yes, he deemed this piece of furniture as "that thang" instead of calling it a chair. Guess by stripping it of its original name, dad could cut ties and leave this beloved chair behind when he returned home!! I proudly positioned the chair next to the bay window and it is now my focal point of the room until we decide how to decorate. We won't know the sex of the baby until early January so we will wait until then to finalize a theme. Because I love to decorate, I am already dreaming up ideas though. I am drawn to earthy tones like browns, cremes and corals versus the traditional pinks, blues and yellows. Earthy tones are prominent throughout our house so I would like Baby J's room to reflect that same feel. Since my friend Fua's delivery of twin girls last December, I have been fixated on OWLS! I offered up that theme to her when she was decorating the girls room and she thought the idea of a child waking up to big-eyed owls was creepy!!! I, on the other hand, think a few vintage owls here and there throughout the room might go nicely with the color scheme I have in mind (so I'm taking my idea back, Fua). Either way, we have a long way to go before finalizing anything.

I received my first baby gift from a friend last week. Monica is a very skilled knitter -she made Baby J two adorable baby hats. I am hopeful she will make Baby J's entire wardrobe for the summer! I already put in a request...

On Friday, I got the H1N1 vaccine. My hacking cough is almost dried up and I am feeling pretty good. I introduced Baby J to corndogs and cheese tator tots last night from Sonic. So far, no objections from Baby J on this meal! Good.

10 weeks

2009-10-29T19:45:00.000-07:00

(photo of our niece Maria Joyce celebrating in the news of her new cousin)!

10 weeks into my pregnancy and I feel energized (today at least, I do)! Not to say I don't crave a nap every day around 10 am, immediately following lunch and 7 pm but today I was in the mood to get things accomplished. Wonder how long this streak will last?

My morning sickness has died down and my hacking cough, left over from the virus, is slowly diminishing. I can't say any food repulses me at this time..hopefully I never tire of guac, chips and salsa! I still graze non-stop throughout the day!

Just started the book 'Belly Laughs' today, written by Jenny McCarthy....a gift from my sis, Rachel. So far, it's hilarious! I just finished the chapter titled 'Niagara in My Pants (Vaginal Discharge)'....enough said, huh?

Finding out

2009-10-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

To say today (October 16, 2009) was a surprise would be a major understatement. Today was a whirlwind of happiness and I wasn't expecting it in the least. I started my Friday off by going into a new clinic to see a doctor regarding flu-like symptoms I had been suffering from for a few days. I got poked and prodded by the nurse (even had a gigantic Q-tip shoved up each nostril) to determine if I had the swine flu. I had the back of my throat swabbed to test for strep throat. I briefly informed my new doctor that I had a questionable home pregnancy result the night before and would also like to take another pregnancy test while in the clinic. Why not pee in a cup just to be sure, I thought. I'd already taken two other home pregnancy tests within the last few weeks with nothing but a negative sign glaring back at me so what was the harm in trying again?

Having a gerbil-sized bladder means I can pee at the drop of a hat...at any given moment....but since the pressure was on to pee for this pregnancy test, my bladder dried up. I sat and waited until it filled up again, drinking miniature sized cups of water in the patient room. Within that time frame of guzzling water it was confirmed that I didn't have the flu or strep. It was likely I just had a virus and a nasty cough. That was a relief. I thought the swine flu had struck again! So back to my bladder....I drank another tiny mouthful of water and sucked in my stomach. Yep, my bladder felt ready to go. I went to the bathroom and offered up my sample of urine to the doctor. Ten minutes later, I found out I was pregnant! No clue how far along I was because I couldn't recall my last period but hey....there was a baby inside me! I couldn't stop smiling at this stranger who just presented me with tremendously life-changing news. I listened as she recommended two clinics that could serve me and help determine my due date. I grabbed my purse and left....anxious to call Will at his desk and break the news! I know....not the most romantic way to tell him, via phone, but if you know me then you know I can keep a secret about as long as you can keep my attention during a math class! I had to tell someone NOW.

Will headed home after receiving my call. Hard to sit at your desk and concentrate after a bomb has been dropped like this. So as he headed home, I made a call to one of the clinics and found out they had an immediate opening that afternoon if Will and I could get there fast. So we did! Will got home barely in time to jump into my car and head to Parker Adventist Hospital where we were warmly greeted at the Espirit Women's Clinic. We began filling out the necessary paperwork, which was the size of a small novel, all the while glancing at the other people in the waiting room (all women...poor Will). There were women in all stages of their pregnancy. The walls were plastered with baby pictures and there was a collage on the wall of the babies successfully delivered by the doctors of this particular center. It was a lot to take in. I felt like I barely had time to digest the news before we rushed to this appointment. Will and I hadn't even fully embraced yet!!!

At the appointment, we completed our first ultrasound...a vaginal ultrasound. I gulped in fright at that term. Guess I thought they would rub cold jelly on my tummy and perform the ultrasound that way...you know, the way you see it in movies! Uhm no, the baby is too tiny to be seen using that method right now. So away went my clothes and onto the cold table I went. When the baby popped up on the monitor and we began to hear the rapid heartbeat, I began to cry. That's when it became reality for me.....this was real news. This wasn't just a positive symbol on a pregnancy stick. We had a baby growing, we had created life and we had proof now that Baby J existed! Just as Will and I held hands and excitedly listened to the heartbeat, an unexpected visitor opened up the door. My hoo-haa was spread eagle to the door underneath the tissue paper thin gown that is provided so the visitor, who obviously had the wrong room, quickly walked in, got an eyeful, exclaimed "whoops, wrong room.....sorry" and then exited. OMG! Only me.....

The rest of the visit was spent completing our paperwork, obsessively staring at our first ultrasound photo, talking to our new obstetrician, Dr. Leman and just absorbing the newness of it all. Oh....and don't forget.....I also got to engage in a surprise pap smear, breast exam and blood work test while Will sat in the room. He pretended to be busy with paperwork. That kept his mind (and eyes) off the metal contraption the doctor used on me for the pap smear!

The good news: I can still take baths (Joy! since that's my nightly ritual) as long as the water isn't over 102 degrees and I can still drink an occasional cup of coffee. I can continue to participate in kickboxing and I can sleep on my back. The baby is 8 weeks along and my next appointment is in 4 weeks (11/13). My official due date is May 26, 2010.

That wraps up our first day in this journey! Will & I finally embraced then called our families on the way home to share the news.