40 weeks.

Written December 10th
how far along: 40 weeks.

size of baby: a pumpkin.

maternity clothes: yes... YES.

symptoms: I'm starting to have contractions here and there. Nothing consistent, and nothing too painful. 

exercise: it's about 0 degrees outside this week-- no outdoor activity whatsoever!

cravings/aversions: This is probably not related to pregnancy, but all holiday food sounds good. Peppermint flavored kisses, creme-de-mints, cookies, homeade bread....

movement: He's definitely out off room, but still squirmy.

Sleep: Nope! But it hasn't really bothered me. I figure I'd better get used to this anyway!

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: BIRTH!

worries: Still worried about my water breaking while teaching, although I think my students might be even more worried than I am.

milestones:  Due date today! Full term baby- woot woot! If he doesn't come naturally, I'll be induced next Wednesday. 

best moment this week:  This week was generally uneventful. I visited the doctor on Friday afternoon and the routinely took my blood pressure. It wasn't abnormally high, but high for me. I was admitted to triage in the hospital right then for about 3 hours and was sent home after a few lower readings. That was a bit of excitement! We took it easy the rest of the weekend. We even joined the modern world and now have Netflix!

39 weeks

Please excuse the hair and the back-to-work-after-a-break exhaustion look :)

Written December 3rd
how far along: 39 weeks.

size of baby: a watermelon.

maternity clothes: yes... And mostly leggings and boots because, well, they fit.

symptoms: Mostly more of the same with a bigger belly!

exercise: decorating the Christmas tree and cleaning my house about did me in. It's sad.

cravings/aversions: Nothing really, although I'm looking forward to a Jimmy john's sandwich soon after this babe is born.

movement: Yes, although I feel like he's been slowing down a little in the past few days.

Sleep: Eh. Having 5 days off work was wonderful last week! Even though I don't sleep longer than 3 hours, I'm still managing to get plenty on sleep.

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: Pretty much everything about meeting our son! Outside of pregnancy, I'm looking forward to dinner with friends this week and general nesting and Xmas prep.

worries: Hm... I'm trying my hardest to not be an anxious freak in this last week and to just enjoy the days and take it one day at a time. I can't say that I'm doing so well, but I am trying!

milestones:  We made it to December 4th (J's last final!) and to my cross-over day with my substitute.

best moment this week:  I loved everything about this holiday week. I had two fabulous Thankgiving gatherings with family, we did all of our Christmas shopping (which might be my favorite chore) ;), picked, chopped down and decorated our Christmas tree and found time for a date night to see Catching Fire. This is and always has been my favorite time of the year!b

38 weeks.

No photo :(

Written November 25th
how far along: 38 weeks.

size of baby: a pumpkin.

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms: Tight belly- not much room left.  Wrists so sore I can't open doors, turn doorknobs, and most importantly, swipe through my Pinterest feed. Integestion and not very hungry.

exercise: moving in General is difficult at the end of the day, but I'm still pretty quick in the mornings!

cravings/aversions: I ate the best Chik-fil-a sandwich go my life tonight.

movement: Yep! I had a dream that I was freaking people out with the moving baby in my belly. Good thing it's probably only noticeable to me.

Sleep: I have been going to bed early, but am wide awake for at least an hour in the middle of the night.  

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: Seeing the little guy in person! And seeing all my family for thanksgiving. Also, I'm a Black Friday sucker- I can't wait to head out with my list.

worries: Crossing my fingers he holds out until Dec. 4 because J has a final on the 3rd. Also just praying for a safe and healthy arrival!

milestones:  Its Thanksgiving week! 

best moment this week:  Finishing up the nursery.  I'll post pictures in a few weeks when I can officially reveal his name. Also did a lot of freezer cooking over the weekend. Ashley came by with her littlest babe to help me with the final touches of the nursery, and to be sure my bags were properly packed!

37 weeks

Written November 21st.
how far along: 37 weeks.

size of baby: a watermelon?!

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms: feeling overwhelmed with my "to do" list, when in reality nothing has to be done. I'm in definite get things situated, nesting mode, but also feeling completely unprepared. Physically, the baby feels lower and is causing some discomfort walking, especially later in the day.  My feet are ridiculous looking- it's horrific. My hands are cramped, still. But overall, I'm still feeling great!

exercise: not so much. Does walking target count?

cravings/aversions: I still drink a glass of milk and graham crackers if I'm up in the night. I used to HATE milk. 

movement: Lots! And he's running out of room!

sleep: I've been getting up 2-3 times each night, but can generally get back to sleep pretty quickly. I've had some Braxton hicks this week as well.

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: Announcing his name! I can't wait to tell the world :) I had a dream that I accidentally named him one of my students' names... a female student.  Also looking forward to a few days off work, visiting family and some good eating next week.

worries: Slightly concerned he will be early, but I have absolutely no control over that :) 

milestones:  37 weeks = full term!

best moment this week:  Again, I'm behind on this post. I didn't even take a "real" picture.  So much going on! I'm busy at school just keeping up, but also trying to prep for my time away. I officially have a long-term sub lined up which is a huge relief. We celebrated my moms birthday last weekend, which is always fun. I've been to anorher birth class (our last one is tonight). Lots of good things!

On a sadder note, one of my best friends lost her dad this week. My heart is heavy thinking of her and her family.  Another good friend has a 5-year-old daughter who is fighting her battle with leukemia. Please help me pray for these ladies and their families. Squeeze your loved ones tight.

35 weeks.

Written November 5th.
how far along: 35 weeks.

size of baby: a coconut.

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms:  Does being excited count? It really is starting to feel close, and I'm just so pumped to meet this guy. Feeling sentimental and blessed to be carrying this baby. Of course there are also some symptoms I'm ready to get rid of- swollen feet, swollen hands (finally lost one of three rings last week), hands are still asleep, and back is still bothering me. Oh, and my belly button has officially "popped".

exercise: Some walks, but more sits. :)

cravings/aversions: I've had this carving for a while, but haven't shared.  I could drink soda water forever, preferably with lime. I blame you, AB.

movement: Lots!

sleep: I've been getting up 2-3 times each night, but can generally get back to sleep pretty quickly.

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: We begin our childbirth classes this Thursday- woot! Also, thanksgiving. Because, food and Black Friday and time off work. Oh, and is it too soon to look forward to having my body back? I'm not talking fit and fab, but just the ability to put on socks without feeling like a freak.

worries: Still worried about labor and delivery, but I don't think that will ever go away. 

milestones:  Officially considered nine months pregnant this week. Craziness. Although, I'm starting to feel like I've been pregnant forever.

best moment this week:  I'm a post behind, so technically this was LAST week, but my Aunt threw me an amazing shower for my extended family. It was awesome to get to see so many people I don't get a chance to see that often, and they were so generously spoiling our little man! Great food, great people, great times. 

33 weeks.

Written October 22nd.
how far along: 33 weeks.

size of baby: a durian fruit? 

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms:  This is the weirdest... My hands have been falling asleep, which apparently is very common and is related to pregnancy induced carpel tunnel syndrome. Also, I guess the back pain is here to stay. 

exercise: Some walks, but more sits. :)

cravings/aversions: I'm running out of room and get full fast!

movement: New this week- I can feel the difference between body and limbs! He feels absolutely gigantic now.

sleep: more please!

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: My Aunt is throwing me a shower for me this weekend and I'll get to spend some time with family I haven't seen in far too long. I can't wait.

worries: After breast feeding class last week, I'm both more and less worried about that adventure. The class was awesome, and I learned a ton, but I still feel nervous and anxious about my role in, oh you know, keeping a kid alive!

milestones:  We are almost positive we have infant care for when I return to school up until summer break. HUGE relief! 

best moment this week:  Breast feeding class, finding infant care, a maternity photo shoot, and a date night! Good week, I'd say.

32 weeks.

Written October 15th.
how far along: 32 weeks.

size of baby: a squash.

maternity clothes: yep, and now that it's a little colder out I can add some sweaters to the mix.

symptoms:  more back aches- womp womp....

exercise: Ummmmmm,

cravings/aversions: I've been snacking on fall baked goods from a little baking party I attended over the weekend. Yummmmm

movement: Yep!

sleep: more please!

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: I'm attending a breast feeding class this week so I'm hoping to learn lots!

worries: What if my water breaks while I'm teaching? Or it's a snow storm and I'm in labor? Or if my husband doesn't answer his phone when it all goes down? Ah!

milestones:  less than 2 months left!

best moment this week:  I had a great time doing some baking with friends last Sunday. Overall, just a normal, busy week :)

Random.

Just some random thoughts for a random blog post today.

1. I have lost my favorite pajamas. How does that even happen? (Don't answer that.)

2. Fall candles soothe my soul. There's just something about having a pumpkin spice scent in the house and the windows open that is so calming.

3. As is a clean kitchen.

4. New iOS- love or not? I'm still getting used to it, but really haven't noticed anything life changing.

5. New curtains- 95 in or 84 in? 84 inch will go from the floor to the top of the window, while 95 will go from floor to ceiling. I told you this post was random. 

 6. I am sleeping in like a teenager, as in sleeping in on the weekends. Although I myself never slept in as a teenager... And I'm still heading to bed early like a grandma. It's lovely.

7. Jessica Alba is my girl crush. Her and Olivia Palmero. (Images from Day Old News)

8. Considering chopping my hair, but I will probably never do it.

9. I thought I heard Xmas music the other day and my stomach flipped with excitement. I'm one of those freaks who likes to "fa la la la la" as long as possible.

10. Beauty Brands is having their lash Bash event where many many mascaras are on sale for about $11. Get yourself the Smashbox Full Exposure. You won't be sorry.

That's all. Have a good weekend!

-m

31 weeks.

Written October 7th. Officially worst photo yet, but it's better than no photo, yes? I need to be home in daylight sometime!
how far along: 31 weeks.

size of baby: pineapple- now that's sounding more accurate.

maternity clothes: yes. I'm getting anxious yo shop in the regular clothes sections again. There are so many cute things out for fall! It's probably a good thing I'm forced to resist :)

symptoms:  nothing new! I had my 30 week appointment on Friday and I'm measuring right on track. 

exercise: More of the same- walk walk walk. J is thinking of signing up for a half marathon in 2 weeks so I'm getting excited for him. It will be fun to be on the sidelines, and I think I know a couple other friends running that I could cheer on as well.

cravings/aversions: I about kicked my husband out of the house when he was eating salad with ranch for a Friday night snack. Absolutely repulsed me! 

movement: Yep!

sleep: I could stay in bed for 12 hours each night and I think that might be enough. It's not without 3-4 bathroom breaks, but sleep is so good.

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: Meeting this little man! There is so much talk about him actually being here, I want to see and hold him so badly. He had better stay snug for another 9 weeks, though.

worries: I've started thing about how labor and delivery could all go down. Everyone has a shorty, and it's just so unknown.

milestones:  Baby shower was last weekend!

best moment this week: Definitely the absolutely incredible baby shower hosted by Ashley, her mom, and Katelynn. They went above and beyond to make the party the most special day I could have wished for. I know Ashley took pictures, so I'll be sure to get some do those up here soon. The decorations were all vintage maps in coordinating colors to my nursery. The food was delicious- I could've spent the whole time munching on a curried cheese all made bt Ashley's mom. There was sparkling cider sangria, macaroons, mini apple pies, and the list goes on. We played a couple games on specially printed game cards (did I mention Ashley is a graphic designer?). The best part, though? All of my friends who showed up to give me and my little babe lots of love. I'm so incredibly blessed to have The. Best. Friends. I feel totally spoiled and especially cared for. My girlfriend (also Ashley) totally suprised me when she walked through the door- she lives 6 hours away, and has school Monday! Thank you to everyone for all of the love. It was felt full force, and I give you much love back!

30 weeks.

Written September 30th.
how far along: 30 weeks.

size of baby: cucumber.

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms:  This week brought with it some new symptoms.  My back has been starting to hurt if I sit or stand for too long in the same position.  I also had some braxton hicks contractions on Friday night. It wasn't anything really hurt, but more just uncomfortable and startling considering I have never had contractions before!

exercise: A few walks, but mostly rested this week after an eventful weekend full of walking last weekend!

cravings/aversions: I haven't been too hungry lately, but apple cider and pumpkin pancakes are perfect this time of year!

movement: Yep!

sleep: Oh I have been super sleepy.  I'm starting to take an iron supplement because my iron count had been low, so I'm hoping that it might make a difference in my energy level too.

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: My baby shower!!  I'm so totally pumped and feeling extremely special and spoiled to have my bestie, Ashley, hosting a shower for me this coming weekend.  I CAN. NOT. WAIT.!!!!

worries: Signed up for childbirth and breastfeeding classes last week-- check! Now onto insurance and childcare... Also, a little worried that he could come early.  

milestones:  Into the "30's"!

best moment this week: I spent most of this week waking up excited about going back to bed.  Ha.  Friday and Saturday were delightful, however.  I got to catch up with some old work friends, which never fails to be a great time.  Saturday J and I went to his best friend's family concert where we sat outside sipping cider and listening to some good music.  Good times, for sure.

Fresh Market.

(Tuesday, September 24:) Review a book, place, or product.

Last Friday, I had a few minutes to spare so I ran into the new Fresh Market in Kansas City.  A friend had told me that it was like a mix between Dean and Deluca and Whole Foods.  I'd say that's pretty close. 

This is definitely an upscale grocery experience, where everything is, you guessed it, FRESH! Everything looked delicious.  There was an entire section of fresh produce, a huge deli counter, cheese selection, salad bar, olive bar, and many prepared dishes such as pizzas, sandwiches, and salads to go.  I ordered a 1/2 pound of their greek artichoke salad to go, and it was filled with olives, onions, tomatoes, and artichokes.

One of my favorite stations was the old-fashioned candy aisle.  Not only did everything look delicious, but it was also organized and displayed so neatly.  You could buy these items by the pound, so I was able to just pick out a couple of things that I wanted to try for a reasonable cost.

Another great station was the dried fruit/veggie/snack mix/nuts section, where again you could buy by the pound.  You can also sample anything you want before purchasing, so I tried some dried okra (it was actually really good, and they told me it was a top seller), some dried star fruit and dried green beans.  I walked away with a small bag of dried apples with cinnamon.  

I didn't spend much time in the refrigerated section or the coffee station, but I hope to look more into those next time I stop by.  I don't plan to go once a week or anything, but it will be on my list of places to visit when I need something special or sweet!

Comfort.

So, I got behind.  Life got in the way, and mostly, I got lazy :)  Here's my attempt to somewhat catch-up in the Blogtember challenge.

(Friday, September 20):  React to this term: comfort. 

1. Pajamas....  Flannel ones that you can wear all day on Sunday, with fuzzy socks to match. I just snagged these on sale for $20 from Target.

Target

2. Coffee....  In the morning, before anyone else is awake and it is still somewhat dark outside.  My favorite coffee from Trader Joe's, black.

3. Rainy Days.... when you can spend them inside baking cookies. My favorite cookie? Betty Crocker's simple recipe for Monster Cookies.

via

4. Being HOME.

via

Selfie.

Friday, September 13: A self portrait.

Sorry, they made me. #selfiesareawkward

Happy Friday! 

29 weeks.

Written September 23rd
how far along: 29 weeks.

size of baby: acorn squash

maternity clothes: yes.

symptoms: I'm holding up well! A little swollen and sore after lots of walking this weekend, but that is to be expected.

exercise: Walking for miles and miles around DC this weekend. I think I walked enough for at least the whole week :)

cravings/aversions: same old stuff I always eat- including chocolate and cheese!

movement: When he moves around these days I can't believe how long he is! I will feel him poking around at the top of my belly and around the way bottom at the same time. He's getting so big!

sleep: more please!

gender: oh boy :)

looking forward to: Fall! We have some fun fall stuff planned this weekend- friends, fire puts, concerts... I just love thus time of year.

worries: still sorting out daycare, hospital forms, birthing classes, insurance... The list goes on!

milestones: I passed the second glucose screening! Woot woot!

best moment this week: I had the BEST time on a trip to DC with some college friend last weekend. Someone at work asked me my favorite thing I saw... My friends! Yes, we saw the White House, theWashington  Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, Library of Congress, WWII Memorial, Holocost Museum and more, they were all incredible. I even got to see my newlywed friend, Kelsey, and give her a big congrats hug. Love her. My favorite part? Sitting in our pjs talking at night, walking and talking thought out the city, catching up and laughing our heads off.  They we're so great to put up with me and my swollen feet and big belly. They tried so hard to get me spill the beams on the baby's name- without success! (It was stressful!) I love those ladies and am so lucky to have friends that I can lean on like them. The best are the friends who you don't have to see all the time that you know you can pick up right where you left off. Can't wait for our next trip!