Sunday, July 31, 2011

Name of the Week and New Outfits

Emily Madison.

Haven't decided on spelling yet or any of that. This is a name I've liked for a while and it keeps going in and out of the name lottery for us. But right now, we like it.

Emily - comes from the Latin Emil, which means "industrious."
Madison - Son of Maud or Matilda, of which Matilda translates to "noble lady."

Also, I went to the Dollar General with Ashley today so we looked at baby clothes. They were only $2.50 each so this will give me a new appreciation of being able to buy baby clothes. I know I have 4 more months ahead of me but I didn't want to delay.


The first two are 0-3 months and the last one is 6-9 months. The last one I had to get and those of you who read my blog know that the Child Formerly Known as Peanut must have this outfit. I don't plan to load up on clothes just yet. But my mom also bought some adorable onesies. Full body, with footies :)

They're just so tiny!!

Friday, July 29, 2011

Name Ideas of the Day

I just realized that I haven't done our last name, a very important factor in this child's name.

Etymology of Morlock:
  • German (Baden and Württemberg): nickname for someone with black hair, from Middle High German mōr ‘Moor’ + Early New High German locke ‘lock (of hair)’.
Now, on to first names:

Etymology of Lila:
  • Derived from the Arabic name "Leila"  The name is derived from the tri-consonantal root: L-Y-L means "Night" and over time has come to mean "Born at Night," "Dark-haired Beauty" or "Dark Beauty." (I guess we can't name her this if she's blond)
Etymology of Lilly:
  • The name in English comes from the flower called lily, a symbol of purity. The Latin origin "Lilium" for the flower.
  • Interesting Krystle fact: my youngest sister, Susan, has "lily" as the translation of her name.
Let me know if anyone has ideas! We're liking really feminine names, apparently.

One of the Girls?

On Wednesday night, I think Eric came to terms with the fact that he'll have a daughter. I know how much he wants a son and I know we'll have one but I'm so happy that we're having our girl first.

He was telling me that he doesn't know what he'll have in common with her, that he doesn't know what girls like. I told him that he'll always know what she likes because he'll always know her. I told him that just because she's a girl doesn't mean that she won't have a variety of interests. She may be the princess who loves tea parties and dress-up and light-up shoes. She may take after her daddy and fall in love with football and baseball (and I don't know how I'll survive). The important thing, I told him, is to expose her to plenty of different interests to give her the chance to decide and not try to get her to conform to what the world thinks she should like.

He started tossing around names and has been since then. Last night, we liked a few.

Lila.
Lily (unless it comes from Lilith).
Penny.

And a couple of others. Must research :)

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Overexposure



Here's my little girl's beautiful face. 

I've been thinking about something in regards to posting "gender" pictures.. Why?

I mean, I understand that everyone wants to see pictures one way or another. But tell me something - why do we feel the need to show off our baby's cash and prizes? I mean, I know I'll eventually sit down with my little girl and explain about morals and what you should and shouldn't do with your body until you're married. But how on earth can I explain why, in the midst of modesty, I posted her goodies all over the internet? She's not even here yet!

For that reason, I'll be posting the other pictures but I'll leave that off of here. The girl is going to go through enough.

I know that not everyone feels the way I do because women post those pictures all the time. And I didn't really have an issue with it until yesterday. I guess I'm just going to be a bit protective.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

My Banana Baby - Boy or Girl

So, we naturally got to the ultrasound early. Sat down in our chairs together and waited. Susan and I were beyond ourselves with excitement just to find out. Eric wasn't as outwardly excited but he normally keeps it cool.

The technician called us in and the three of us filed into the room and I hopped up on the table. This began a 45-minute or so ultrasound. I had ultrasound gel above my bellybutton even. They measured everything - head, heart, veins in the heart, bones, and then he asked the question -

"Do you want to know the sex?"

YES! That's what we came for, isn't it???

So... the technician looked and re-looked several times. The technician told us that he's pretty sure since he checked 10 times and....

It looks like Eric's buying a shotgun to protect his little girl :)

And this is how I know, once again, Pastor Al is always right.

Pre-Ultrasound

Today is the BIG ULTRASOUND day!!!

So, my appointment is in two hours and I can't stop moving. As my friend Alexis put it, I'm going to start "the comedic pacing" soon. I'll be seeing the baby with Susan and Eric. I was told that we'll have about 2-3 different pictures printed out, as long as their clear.

Peanut aka the Banana Baby (that's a whole different blog), please be still enough for us to see if you're a boy or girl. I understand how upset you must be with everyone trying to see you in your room but if you cooperate, it won't take long. Mommy and Daddy and Aunt Susan are really excited to see you and really want to spoil you with clothes and nursery things and swings. But, in order to make everything ready for you, we need to know if we should buy girl or boy things. And if you behave, we will have something tasty and/or healthy (Mommy's choice) together today. Also, it would be nice for Aunt Susan to see you in action, so you only really have to be still for the part when we see if you're a boy or girl. Move like crazy for everything but pictures! :)

Overall, I am just excited to know. I don't care what the Old Wives' tales say, or the Chinese calendar. This is only a determination that can be selected by God. I just hope this is one of those times when God gives me an answer today and not later. ;)

Any last votes - boy or girl??

Friday, July 22, 2011

More Baby Name Ideas

I have loved many names that have been shot down in the course of searching for the right one. Here are the lost names (which I have YET to give up on using).

Sophie - derived from σοφία, the Greek word for "Wisdom." Sophie is from the French form. Sophia has been a popular name throughout the western world. The name was used to represent the personification of wisdom and is also the name of an early Christian martyr.

Ethan - Means "solid, enduring" in Hebrew. The name Ethan is a masculine biblical name that symbolizes "A gift of the island." Derived from the Hebrew words for "permanence" and "strength," Ethan is also translated to mean optimistic, solid, firm, steadfast, righteous, constancy and enduring.

Natalie - From the French form of the Late Latin saint's name Natalia, from natalis (dies) "birthday (of Christ), Christmas". It is also said to have derived from the Late Latin name Natalia which derived from Natale Domini meaning "Christmas Day".

Darren - a masculine given name of uncertain etymological origins. Some theories state that it originated from a Gaelic surname meaning "great", or from an anglicization of the Irish firstname Darragh or Dáire meaing "oak tree". According to other theories, it is a variant of Darrell, which originated from the French surname D'Airelle meaning "of Airelle". Darren has several spelling variations including: Daren, Darin, Daryn, Darrin, and Darryn

Gwen - From Welsh gwen, the feminine form of gwyn meaning "white, fair, blessed".

Those are just a few. But I haven't given up on them yet!

Unreal

I just made the call to schedule my ultrasound appointment and it looks like I will be finding out if this baby is a boy or a girl on Wednesday (next week) @ 11am. My sister (Susan) and husband (Eric) will be there and I'm so excited. I even double-checked to make sure I can have 2 people in there, which I totally can.

It's a little unreal still, even now. I'm sitting here in maternity jeans while the baby swims around like my belly is the YMCA and when I stand I can feel the firmness of my belly. But it still feels like I'm a just a kid, wishing and waiting to have a kid.

When you were little, did you ever play that game MASH? There was a million categories and you always had a friend that added some new categories that you knew weren't on the original but it was fun so you played anyway? You would go through and list pets you wanted, the person you would marry, how many kids you would have, your dream job, etc. You would then go through the list and narrow each category down to one and that's how your life would be, in theory lol. I can't tell you the amount of times I married Tom Cruise, lived in a shack, had a dog named Scout, had 2 kids, and made no money when I was 10 years old.

This feels like I'm just dreaming like I'm 10 years old. Or like when I was a teenager and I would talk to my dad in the backyard, telling him how we'll live by a lake that he can always visit and they'll get a mini-bar in the room and we'll have a golden retriever; it's something I want but when is that a reality?

I know that I've had tests and ultrasounds and doctor's appointments and I know that I'm pregnant. But I don't think the reality of me having a baby and becoming someone's mommy has hit me. Maybe it feels like I'm still dreaming because I can't really say "her" or "him" since I don't know. Maybe it won't even hit me until this baby is born and I hold them on my chest and see that little face. Or a week later when I'm home and realize that I'll always be a mom now.

I think I'll be a good mom but I think I need to say something - I know that I have many friendships with some amazing mothers. I respect all that they have done with their families and I know that each of them has to be doing something right. As much as I will appreciate the advice that I get, I need you all to respect my decision that I won't always take it.

I know that I need to support the neck and feed my child and change their diaper and take care of myself - that's pretty standard.  However, the more advice I get right at the beginning, the more I feel like I have to take it out of respect of everyone's experience. I hope you understand that your decisions and opinions about discipline, breastfeeding, baby clothing, shopping, working, eating, exercising, yelling, teaching, Santa Claus, the East Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and general raising of your child or children are not mine. I hope you all have known me well enough that I have enough common sense to make these decisions. I don't have to justify what I'll decide to do. Trust me - I love hearing about how other mothers take care of things. But even right now, I don't need the stress of being told what I need to do. If I always listen to everyone's opinion, who's taking care my child? If I put you first, my child isn't. And I'm not sorry that my child wins that battle.

I've wanted to be a mother for as long as I can remember. Please do not take all the excitement away from me with what I "should" do. If you have an opinion or even know something I shouldn't, I would love if you shared. But don't be offended if I don't use that information.

Actually, someone may have to stop me from buying white clothing for my newborn. I have a feeling that it won't be the best color for the messiness that my child will possess.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

The Bidding Pool Begins

So, Saturday will mark the end of my 20th week. I can't believe it's nearly half over! I still feel like I just found out yesterday but then yesterday seems like forever away. I've known since April Fools' Day. How weird. But, I guess with anything, the halfway mark brings on new things. Like the bidding pool lol.

Just to clear everything up, my current due date is December 11th. The original date was December 16th on my first ultrasound when they could only see the gestational sac. Then, they did another one about 2 weeks later to confirm the baby is in there and they moved it to December 12th. On my last ultrasound (7 weeks ago), they bumped it up another day because the baby measured a cm longer or something. I don't think it's what I've been eating because since my first doctor's appointment, I haven't gained any weight - just have lost 5lbs.

I've gotten some guesses but no real high stakes until recently. Here are the guesses:
December 11th - Me.
December 12th - Van and my mother-in-law (I think).
December 13th -
December 14th -
December 15th - My mom (the day I was due to be born).
December 16th - Eric.
December 17th -
December 18th - Josh (brother-in-law) (This is my birthday.)

Van said that if he is right, I have to name my baby after him and if it's a girl, the name must be Vanessa.

No money on the table, but we'll see. They say that first-time mom normally is late, but then I've read that if you're overweight, you're more likely to go into labor early. But no one seems to think I'll be lucky enough for an early labor. Any thoughts? Bids?

Friday, July 15, 2011

Soda and Bagels

So... there's a reason that curiousity killed the cat and it's not because inquiring minds are wrong. I mean, it's perfectly natural to seek out answers. But I think that curiousity must have killed the cat because it wondered what would happen if it sunbathed under a moving car. Or possibility it wondered what bathroom cleaner tasted like. Either way, this curious cat (meaning me) has got to stop Google-ing things. Like labor.

Now, I'm not an idiot - I know it's supposed to hurt. Biblically, it will hurt. There's nothing about that whole process that doesn't scream "OUCH," but I wanted to read about what I'm actually going to deal with. Boy, is that a mistake.

Now, I don't know how many of you know this (and if any of my kids in youth ministry read this, I hope it solidifies any doubts you have about waiting until marriage), but there's 3 stages of labor in the article/slideshow (yes, slideshow) I read:

Stage One lasts from early contractions until it's time to push. This is the longest stage and for first-time mommies, it can last a whopping 10-14 hours... you have GOT to be kidding me. Oh and there's 3 parts to this stage - early, active, and transition labor. In early labor, it "might be painful or slightly uncomfortable," as described in said slideshow. Then again, it must be in comparison. Oh, and contractions.

During active labor, it lasts from 4-8 hours and epidurals are normally given at this time. Now, I'm not bothered by either item in the previous statement. I'm not even bothered that they say that you move onto the next stage when your cervix is at 8cm. What disturbs me is, that is phrased as exactly the following: "Once your cervix is 8cm dialated (a little larger than a soda can), you enter transition." I'm sorry, a soda can? (I read this and the first thing that popped in my head is me, in the middle of labor, not knowing if I'm ready to go or not, demanding a soda can).

The third part is transition, the "most painful part of labor" (because I guess the rest is luxury in comparison) and I am again disturbed by the description. I read, and I quote, "Cervix opens from 8cm to 10cm (about the size of a bagel). WHAT ON EARTH?! Now, this one made me think a little more. Soda cans are about the same so I get that.. Would this be a mini-bagel, like the ones made by Thomas'. Or would this be a medium size bagel like the Fry's generic brand? Or a Sara Lee bagel?

The second stage involves two events - Pushing, then Crowing and Birth. Apparently, when that bagel is at full capacity, there's the pushing part. I read that the contractions do a lot of this for me, thank God! They say this lasts a few minutes to a few hours. Now, more good news in my reading is the reassurance that "the most painful part is over." That's promising...

The third stage is the delivery of the placenta. Now, my very innocent mind did not even consider this aspect of birth until a few years ago. No movies show this happening, or imply it. No one even talks about it. I'm really hoping that when this happens, I don't have the same experience as a friend of mine - she had some terrible scenarious. With one, they had to scrape out the cervix. Another, the doctor had to yank it out. And so, I laugh at fact that they say it "usually" doesn't hurt. Now, I know those scenarios are rare, but then again, it's rare that I'm giving birth, so ANYTHING can happen.

I probably should start making a list for my hospital bag. I already know that I'm having to add a sandwich for my husband since he's not very productive when hungry. But now, I'm going to have to pack a soda and a bagel for me.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Parents Say the Darndest Things!

"When I first saw the twins [when they were born], I really liked them. And, at the same time, there was a ghost over my shoulder saying, 'What if I hadn't liked them?'" -- Tilda Swinton.

This quote just baffled me. I mean, I'm concerned with a lot of things when my baby is born but I've never considered that I wouldn't be head-over-heels in love. Should I? : /

I mean, I haven't had my baby yet but I wonder what my thoughts will be like about him or her. I think that's why I've decided to stop making assumptions about the sex. I mean, I want a boy and a girl and I've been really struggling with how much I want a little girl. I started thinking about how bad of a person I will feel if I find out I'm having a boy and don't immediately feel joy just for knowing. Or if I spend so much time dwelling on how beautiful a little girl with auburn hair and emerald eyes and have a boy with blonde hair and brown eyes! I mean, I know it's a really stupid comparison but I want my child to always know they are always wanted, just as they are.

Honestly, it doesn't really matter what I'm wanting or scared of or anything - it's not in my hands for most of it. I can only do as much as I'm able to.

With that, I'll leave you with a few quotes about children:
In a dark moment I ask, "How can anyone bring a child into this world?"  And the answer rings clear, "Because there is no other world, and because the child has no other way into it."  --Robert Brault

Children seldom misquote.  In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said.  --Author Unknown

Monday, July 11, 2011

Baby Names I Like (With meaning)

These are just a few names I've thought about. I'll probably come back to this and edit or continue with either list when we know for sure if it's a boy or girl. But here's the ones I've been thinking about...

Boys
Alexander - The first segment comes from the verb alexo (alexo), meaning to ward or keep off, turn away or aside (Liddell and Scott - An Intermediate Greek-English Lexicon). The second part of the name Alexander comes from the common Greek word andros (andros), meaning of man. A similar but more general word is anthropoktonos (anthropoktonos) meaning manslayer or rather human-slayer (John 8:44).

Desmond - From an Irish surname which was derived from Gaelic Deas-Mhumhan meaning "from south Munster (in Ireland)". The name derived from the rebellions in the 1500's by the Earl of Desmond and his allies agains the threat of extension of the English government over the province. The rebellions were motivated primarily by the desire to maintain the independence of lords from their monarch, but also had an element of religious antagonism between Catholic Geraldines and the Protestant English state. The result was the destruction of the Desmond dynasty and the subsequent plantation or colonisation of Munster with English settlers. 'Desmond' is the Anglicisation given to the Irish Deasmumhain, which translates to 'South Munster'.

Micah - The name Mica(h) consists of two parts. The first bit is mi (mi), the common inquisitive particle that seeks after identity: who? For Micah the second part of the name is koh, which is equal to the word koh (koh), the demonstrative adverb of manner, place or time: thus, here, making Micah to mean Who's There? For a meaning of the name Micha(h), NOBS Study Bible Name List reads Who Is Like Yahweh? Jones' Dictionary of Old Testament Proper Names reads a rather enigmatic Who Is Like Unto The Lord?

Nathan - The name Nathan comes from the verb Nathan (natan), to give. The name Nathan doesn't seem to denote something that is given (as NOBS Study Bible Name List suggests with the meaning of Gift), but rather an active form of the verb: He Will Give. Jones' Dictionary of Old Testament Proper Names reads Given.


Girls
Sandra - Short form of ALESSANDRA which is the Italian form of ALEXANDRA which is the feminine form of ALEXANDER. (See above)

Anastacia - Variant of ANASTASIA which is the feminine form of ANASTASIUS which is the
Latinized form of the Greek name Αναστασιος (Anastasios) which meant "resurrection" from Greek αναστασις (anastasis) (composed of the elements ανα (ana) "up" and στασις (stasis) "standing"). This was the name of numerous early saints and martyrs, including a 7th-century monk and writer from Alexandria who is especially venerated in the Eastern Church.

Rebecca - The name Rebekah comes from the unused verb rbq (rbq), meaning to tie firmly. Jones' Dictionary of Old Testament Proper Names quotes Gesenius who suggests that this name denotes a woman who ensnares a man with her beauty. But although the Biblical occurrence of this name has to do with a lot, not with the snaring of a man by beauty. The name denotes merely a tying up of cattle, both for their own protection, the establishment of their home and to keep them from wandering off. Within this name lies the notion that individuals are placed together by something higher or smarter than they. The name Rebekah literally means Tied Up but more specific (and more friendly) is Secured.

Vanessa - Invented by author Jonathan Swift for his poem 'Cadenus and Vanessa' (1726). He arrived at it by rearranging the initial syllables of the first name and surname of Esther Vanhomrigh, his close friend. Vanessa was later used as the name of a genus of butterfly.


References:
http://www.abarim-publications.com/
http://www.behindthename.com/
http://www.meaning-of-baby-girl-names.org.uk/

A boy or girl? And other thoughts...

Eric and I were having a conversation about the baby over the weekend. Realistically, it was a long, drawn out conversation that stopped and re-started over the whole weekend. But yesterday, we just got to talk.

Eric told me that he's fine with whichever comes first and I explained to him the benefits of both. He told me that he thinks that when we have a boy, he'll be just like me and be his mother's son; when we have a girl, she'll have his warped sense of humor and be a daddy's girl. We were talking about what hair color and eye color the kids might have (brown hair and green eyes on either being my favorite; auburn hair and blue or green eyes being Eric's), what we'll teach them, all kinds of things.

I told Eric about the peace that God's been giving me lately. I know that right now, everything is up in the air - job situations, finances, a new home, all kinds of things. But in spite of that, I'm coming to realize the miracle that is happening. Five months from today, I will hold my little boy or girl and all those things we've thought about won't really matter. I'm slowly falling in love with this little person that is no bigger than my hand. I read a book to the baby on Saturday. I've starting talking to him/her and I hope this baby can hear me.

At least we agree on two things without debate -
If it's a girl, she's not getting her ears pierced until she's old enough to ask and give me 3 good reasons why.
If it's a boy, he's getting circumsized.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Old Wives Tales!

I found a list of old wives tales and I thought it would be interesting to see what everyone thinks!

Old Wives Tale #1:  Heartburn
If a pregnant woman experiences heartburn throughout the 9 months of pregnancy, she’ll have a baby born with a full head of hair.  

Old Wives Tale #2: Umbilical Cord
If a pregnant woman lifts her hands above her head or does stretches above her hand, she will choke the baby because the umbilical cord will be wrapped around the baby. The baby gets tangled in the umbilical cord in about 1/3 of all births, so it’s not so uncommon.

Old Wives Tale #3:  Cravings Curse
Basically if anyone denies a pregnant woman whatever she is craving, they will get a sty in his/her eye.

Old Wives Tale #4:  Heart Rate
If the baby’s heart rate is above 140 bpm, it is said that the baby will be a girl.  If it is under 140 bpm, then it will be a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #5:  Ugly Baby
If a pregnant woman sees something ugly, she will have an ugly baby.  

Old Wives Tale #6:  Coffee
If a baby is born with light-brown birthmarks, it is said that the mom drank too much coffee or had unfulfilled cravings while she was pregnant.

Old Wives Tale #7:  Sex
This old wives tale is actually not a myth.  Sex is healthy for most pregnant women and is also good in getting the cervix ready for labor.  

Old Wives Tale #8 Wearing a Lei
This Hawaiian superstition relates to the lei causing the umbilical cord to wrap around the baby. 

Old Wives Tale #9 Boiling Water
Many people use to believe that boiling water was needed to be nearby the pregnant woman during labor.  There is not a real reason as to why boiling water played a role in childbirth.  Some believe the water was just a task to get the dad-to-be away from the labor, while others believed that it was used to sterilize the tools needed to perform the delivery.  

Old Wives Tale #10 Full Moon
A full moon was believed to cause a woman to go into labor and give birth.  

Old Wives Tale #11:  Shape of Belly
If you are carrying high with a big, round belly, you are having a girl.  If you are carrying low with a smaller belly that sticks straight out, it’s a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #12:  Ring Test
Using a string, hang your wedding ring over your pregnant belly.  You are having a girl if the ring swings back and forth and it’s a boy if it swings in a circle. I've read this one before but it's with a strand of the mother-to-be's hair.

Old Wives Tale #13:  Shape of Mom’s Face
When your face gets fuller and rounder when pregnant, it means you’re going to have a girl.  If your face is long and narrow, it’s a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #14:  Key Test
This test involves a key.  If you pick up a key at the top (the roundest part), you are going to have a boy.  If you pick up the key at the bottom (smallest part), you are going to have a girl.  If you happen to grab the key in the middle, congrats, it’s twins!  

Old Wives Tale #15:  Mayan Tale
The Mayan tale adds the mother’s age at conception and the year of conception.  If the result is an even number then mom is having a girl.  If the result is an odd number then a boy is on the way! 

Old Wives Tale #16:  Drano Test
The Drano test combines a tablespoon of Drano and urine together.  If the mixture turns green, it’s a girl.  If it turns blue, it’s a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #17:  Acne
If you have acne while pregnant, it’s a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #18:  Cravings
People believe that if you are craving salty foods while pregnant, you can count on having a boy.  If you crave sweets, fruit, and orange juice, you are having a little girl.  

Old Wives Tale #19:  Smell of Garlic
If a pregnant woman eats a clove of garlic and the smell does not come out of her pores, it’s a girl.  If the smell seeps out of her pores, it’s a boy.   

Old Wives Tale #20:  Ultrasound
I’m not sure that this falls under ‘old wives tales’, but, as with anything, ultrasounds may not be accurate all of the time.

Old Wives Tale #21:  Skin under Left Eye

The eye test is when a “V” or “branches” appear when you pull down the skin under your left eye.  If you see a “V” or “branches” in the white part, you’re having a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #22:  Previous Kids
This tale only applies if you have had previous kids.  If you have and that child’s first word was momma, you will have a girl.  If your first child’s first word was dada, you’ll have a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #23:  Wooden Spoon, Scissors, and Pink Bows
Apparently if you put a wooden spoon and a pair of scissors under your bed and a pink bow under your pillow, you’ll have yourself a little baby girl.  

Old Wives Tale #24:  History of Parent’s Kids
You can find out the sex by going off of your parent’s kids and the order.  If you are the first born, you will have what your mother had but starting with her second child.  If you are the middle child, you will have what she said, but starting with the third child.  If you are the last child, you will have what your mother had in the exact order.  I think this tale only works when the parent’s had three kids.  

Old Wives Tale #25:  Time of Conception
The person that is most aggressive in bed at the time of conception is the opposite of what the baby will be.  

Old Wives Tale #26:  Legs
If your legs get really big, you’re having a boy.  If your legs stay in shape and lean, it’s a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #27:  Moodiness and Other "Gifts"
If you are really moody, you are having a girl since you have other extra girl hormones in you.  Your pregnancy will make you smile and be happier if you are having a boy because there's a penis inside.

Old Wives Tale #28:  Bread
If you eat the ends of bread, it’s a boy.  If you eat the middle of the load, it’s a girl.  I’ve never liked the ends of bread and always have eaten from the middle.  

Old Wives Tale #29:  Chinese Gender Chart
The Chinese Gender Chart claims to have an accuracy rate of over 90%.  It is based on how old the mother is at conception and the month that she conceived.  

Old Wives Tale #30:  Mom’s Beauty
Basically you are having a girl if your beauty disappears during pregnancy.  It is said that the girl “steals” the mother’s beauty.  If you think that pregnancy has never made you look more beautiful, you might just be having a little boy.  

Old Wives Tale #31:  Dream of Sex of Baby
If you have dreams that you are having a boy, you will have a girl.  If you dream about having a girl, it will be a boy.  Dreams show the opposite of what you are having.  

Old Wives Tale #32:  Clumsy vs. Graceful
If the pregnant woman is graceful throughout her pregnancy, she’s having a girl.  If she becomes clumsy, she’s having a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #33:  Toddlers
If a toddler boy expresses interest in a pregnant woman, she is having a girl.  If he doesn’t show interest, she’s having a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #34:  Side You Most Rest On
If a pregnant woman prefers to lie on her left side, she’s having a boy.  If she prefers resting on her right side, she’s having a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #35:  Hands
When the pregnant woman is asked to show her hands, it’s a boy if she keeps her palms down and a girl if she shows her palms up.  

Old Wives Tale #36:  Dad’s Weight Gain
If the dad-to-be gains weight while you are pregnant, it’s a girl.  If he doesn’t gain weight, you’re having a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #37:  Breast Test
If a pregnant woman’s left breast is larger than the right breast, she’s having a girl.  If the right breast is larger, it’s a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #38:  Necklace over Hand
Have someone hold a necklace over your hand.  If the necklace swings back and forth, it’s a boy.  If it moves in a circle, it’s a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #39:  What Do You Think?
71% of the time, the mom-to-be knows what she is having.

Old Wives Tale #40:  Morning Sickness
If you had a smooth pregnancy with no morning sickness, it’s a boy.  If you were sick or felt really nauseous during your pregnancy, count on a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #41:  Areola
If your areola has darkened, it’s a boy.  This is not true because it's a normal sign of pregnancy.

Old Wives Tale #42:  Protein
When a pregnant woman craves meat and cheese, count on a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #43:  Feet
Are your feet colder now that you are pregnant?  If so, you just might be having a boy.  If your feet have stayed the same before pregnancy and during, you’re having a little girl.  

Old Wives Tale #44:  Hair on Legs
If the hair on your legs has been growing at record speeds, you might be having a boy.  

Old Wives Tale #45:  Hands are Dry
If your hands are constantly dry, it’s a boy.    

Old Wives Tale #46:  Urine
What color is your pee?  If it is bright yellow, you will have a little boy.  If your urine is a dull yellow, plan on a girl.  

Old Wives Tale #47:  Nose
Do you feel like your nose is growing and getting wider?  If so, you might be having a boy.    

Old Wives Tale #48:  Headaches
If you are having headaches, you might be carrying a boy.

Old Wives Tale #49:  Drinking Water
Drinking water is really important when pregnant.  An old wives tale was that if the mom-to-be wasn’t drinking enough water daily, the amniotic fluid would be really dirty for the baby.  Drinking tons of water will help you stay hydrated, but has no correlation with how clean or dirty the amniotic sac is.  

Old Wives Tale #50:  Baby Names
It is said that when you can only think of specific names for a boy or a girl, you will have that particularly baby.  

I'll update this list as I learn more.

Of the 37 gender predictors that would I apply to me, I have 18 that indicate I'm having a girl, 7 that indicate I'm having a boy, and the rest I'm not sure about yet.

OBGYN Appointment and Family

Well, this little kid is shy so I don't know if he or she is mine! :) Seems Peanut likes to hide from the Doppler which is fine because I would never go to investigate if someone was moving my stuff around. I wait till that's gone. I guess this child is mine :)

My car isn't working and so my awesome mom took me to my appointment. I'm really glad she's there for me - I think it's exciting because this is her first grandbaby but more than that, I get to share my experience of having our child with the person who had me. How amazing is that? She's always been a great mom to me so I can only imagine how amazing she'll be as a grandma. But if you have ever met or seen my mom, she doesn't look like a grandma. She still gets carded and no one thinks she looks old enough to have a married daughter with a baby on the way. I'm really hoping to keep those genes and to pass them on.

Anyway, my appointment! We went in and got my blood pressure. Told her about the pain I'd felt which the doctor said is normal (I love hearing that). She used the Doppler to check the heartbeat and it kind of hurt because she had to press down so much to get close to the baby. She asked me if I wanted to do this blood test for Down Syndrome. I got the order but I haven't decided if I'll take the test. She said it's optional. My mom made a good point and asked if I would do anything different if I found out that the baby did have Down Syndrome. I don't think I would but at the same time, I don't think I have to worry about that. I have the order but I haven't decided if I'll do it.

Also, I got the order for the ultrasound to find out if our Peanut is a girl or a boy. My doctor said that we need to wait about 2 more weeks (so I'll be @ 20 weeks at least) so that we can see. I'm really excited about that ultrasound for more than one reason. First, the obvious reason is that I get to find out if I'm a little boy's or little girl's mommy. Secondly, my youngest sister Susan is going to be at that one and this will be the first real and visible thing I get to share with her. She's been asking since day 1 when I will show and when she can feel the baby move and I love how much she wants to participate because I think the baby will have a great relationship with her. I'm kind of hoping it's the same as when Susan was a baby and I would come in and she would be okay - I hope Susan gets to have that kind of peace and closeness with the baby. But this will make her the 3rd person (other than the ultrasound tech and myself) to actually witness the baby on screen and moving and right there!!

Then again, Melanie's (my middle sister) first view of the baby may be in the delivery room and I can't wait for that. I hope she isn't nervous. Because that girl is holding this baby! I have a feeling that Melanie is going to have a totally different relationship with the baby than anyone else. I don't really know how much she is.

I'm really blessed to have such an involved family. I probably should tell you about my dad soon because trust me - he is a BLAST! And it's a good thing too because I can't recall one story about Eric fishing once and my dad is the king of it. My child needs to know these things!

Peanut - I'll probably do a blog on my family and Daddy's family so you know what you're in for. Kind of. Don't worry - you will be okay. It's just Mommy that will be frazzled.

Thanks for reading, guys.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Article from Baby Center - What I Wish I'd Known NOT to Worry About During Pregnancy

I found this interesting article.
"Don't stress if you can't get everything done that you had planned each day. The baby won't know if the housework isn't done!"

"It's okay to tell co-workers that you're not interested in their advice. Every pregnancy is different."

"Remember, every problem has a solution, and confiding in someone who's close to you or who you think can offer help or support is a step forward. Don't be afraid to talk to your partner, OB, or midwife."

"Don't stress about how you look. You're performing a miracle — growing a person inside of you — and that's a fantastic accomplishment."

"If you trust your OB, let her do her job and follow her recommendations; if you don't, find a new doctor who you do trust. You should never be afraid to call your provider with big and small problems."

"Don't stress about tough times with your partner. A baby tests any couple's relationship."

"Don't stress about things like food or weight. Just be sensible. There's no need to give yourself an anxiety attack over the pint of ice cream you just finished. Take it as your special reward for everything you've accomplished so far in your pregnancy, and move on."

"If you're doing everything in your power to make healthy choices, don't worry so much. Women have been having babies since well before we knew what to do and what not to do."

"Mothers-in-law don't know everything!"

"Don't stress too much about things in the environment you think might harm your baby, like standing too close to the microwave or pumping gas. Remember, the vast majority of babies are born healthy."

"Don't worry about labor. It is what it is. Just educate yourself on your options, and be ready to make informed decisions. Beyond that, just take a deep breath and go for it. It's not as bad as you think it'll be."

"Don't stress about how the baby is fending in the womb. It's a roll cage, but your baby is probably comfortable in there."

"Every little twinge doesn't mean something is wrong."

"No matter what decisions you make, someone will always disagree. Try not to let the negative comments upset you, and if you're really worried about something, talk with your doctor or a nonjudgmental friend."

"There's no such thing as a stupid question, especially for first-time mothers. Being pregnant and birthing a child are unique experiences, and a woman will never know what it's all about until she's actually done it herself."

"It's okay if you don't have everything ready for your baby. Newborns don't need a whole lot in the beginning."

"When I accepted heartburn, back pain, lack of sleep, and moodiness as a normal part of pregnancy, they didn't seem to bother me as much anymore."

"If you're worried about being a good mom, you probably have nothing to worry about. My husband keeps telling me that bad mothers don't worry about whether or not they'll be good moms."

"I had never really been around children, and I made mistakes, but as long as you love your baby and are careful with the important stuff, you can't harm him or her with small mistakes. You'll soon get comfortable with the routine."

"Don't stress too much over all the "rules" pregnant women now have. A bath warmer than lukewarm won't lead to disaster. If you accidentally eat a soft cheese you're not sure is safe, there's no use worrying after the fact. Our mothers had fewer restrictions than we do, and we turned out fine."

The Worrywart.

I've become a pregnant hypochondriac. Lately, I think I have "round ligament pain."

What is round ligament pain? Round ligament pain refers to a type of pelvic pain caused by stretching of the round ligaments.

That being said, I have been mentally freaking out over every ache, pain, cramp, spot, sneeze, cough, and hiccup. Every time something happens, what's the first thing I do that I know I shouldn't? I look it up. But I don't look it up in What To Expect When You're Expecting. I look it up on message boards and other programs and there is ALWAYS one person who says "...and then, I miscarried" somewhere in their comment.

The beginning of this pregnancy was full of scary things. Let me explain:
1. The test was positive (probably my most scary moment).
2. Telling Eric.
3. Going to my ultrasound to find out how far along I am and them not finding anything in the gestational sac. This resulted in 3 blood tests and another ultrasound.
4. Bleeding at 12 weeks. My nurse told me what I needed to look out for and that if it happens again, I need to go to Labor and Delivery because I might be miscarrying.
5. Went in at 13 weeks for my appointment. Couldn't find heartbeat with Doppler (added to scary moment #4). Resulted in another ultrasound.
6. Pains that are commonly associated with round ligament pain. But because of the pains, it made me worry about miscarrying.

I do not enjoy being freaked out but there it is. I only just told my youngest sister about #4 on Friday night because she was a little nervous when #3 happened and I didn't want to scare her if it was nothing. Which it was.

I only wonder what I'll be like when this baby actually arrives! My poor friends will be subjected to antibacterial hand sanitizer every time they want to hold the baby. My house will have everything off of the floor. My poor baby will be swaddled to the nines and my pediatrician will be on speed dial with my mom.

I don't know how I'll be a mother :) Maybe you're supposed to worry about all of that. My mom has told me time and time again, "If you don't protect your child, who will?" I don't want to be overly protective but how can I just sit back? I hope this child has a good sense of forgiveness and knows that I do all of this out of love. I'm already wanting to say "no" to everyone who offers to baby-sit but maybe that's partially because I'm the one who has been wanting to meet this baby my whole life.

I just want anyone of my friends out there to know - I don't need to justify to you why I'll do what I'll do when we're raising our kids. If I choose not to spank, that's not your choice; it's mine. If I want to breastfeed only and not use formula, that's also not your choice. I appreciate all of the advice and feedback that I'm getting but I'm making the choices that I feel is right and as long as my baby is healthy, I'm happy.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

First blogged picture


Here you are, Peanut! You're almost 14 weeks old in the womb here. The next picture you will have is in a few weeks and we'll find out if you're a boy or a girl. I thought it'd be nice to put your picture up here.

This picture was taken to check for your heartbeat but you put on quite a show that day. Your grandma said it was your first dance recital (if you're a girl). Daddy said it's showing off your smooth moves. Something about sports if you're a boy.

Just so you know, it's okay if you don't play sports. I don't. Your daddy plays disc golf and sometimes volleyball. Either way, I hope you have good balance because this little family is quite a klutzy one!

Your birthday is estimated to be December 11, 2011. It's a week before my birthday. More reasons that Mommy will be the favorite.

Mommy loves you!

Mobile Posting!!

I have just discovered that I can post from my phone. This is exciting because now I can show pictures and everything on here! :)

Dear Peanut

Dear Peanut,

You will be very excited to know that this is a very good school year to be born. You'll be in class with a lot of Mommy's friends' kids and I hope you get to know all of them and possibly even continue this tradition of friendship.

You'll probably sit next to the Lindsey's kid if you're in alphabetical order. You'll probably know the Rocco kid. Who knows who else is going to join you? I hope you'll have some friends from the other youth leaders I work with since they're pretty awesome. You'll have plenty of friend's that Mommy and Daddy already know.

Now, I want you to know something - it's okay if you don't agree with them. You might not always get along and we might not always get along with their parents. Mommy and Daddy don't always make the same decisions as their mommies and daddies do about finances, discipline, "grounding" (you won't want this, but you will probably have it at some point), sharing, and other things. But we won't confuse you.

I wonder what your favorite things will be. Favorite toy, food, color, parent (that's me, in case you haven't made your decision yet), etc. I wonder if you'll be scared of the rain and thunderstorms or if you'll watch the light show with us. I wonder if you will be a picky eater like Mommy or a human garbage disposal like Daddy. I wonder if you'll enjoy being read to at bedtime or if you'll want to talk instead. I wonder if you'll be outgoing or introverted. I wonder if you will be a perfectionist. I wonder if you'll have dreams of being in the country, in the mountains, at the ocean, or if you'll want to stay here. I wonder if you'll be a doctor, a lawyer, a missionary, or an artist. I wonder who you will be closest to between Aunt Melanie or Aunt Susan.

I used to wonder if you'll be a boy or girl but honestly, all hopes aside, I'm just glad you're on your way. I hope I keep that attitude when I go into labor. I hope I keep that attitude when I find out if you're a boy or girl. I know that Daddy still thinks you're a boy. I want one of each but I don't know how I'll feel when I know. When I found out you were coming, I was scared and excited and freaking out and I want you to know that those are all good things.

I wonder if you know that I already love you.
Mommy

Friday, July 1, 2011

My Sandwich

Today was a long work day. I had to cover for another one of my coworkers, but that wasn't the long part. The long part was that I had to wait until almost two to get lunch...

Let me explain why this sucked. I had breakfast around 7am and I was running late so I forgot to grab my grapes and crackers to snack on. I head into work and I'm feeling fine. But I forgot that I get ferociously hungry close to lunchtime. I thought to myself, No big deal. I only have to cover until 12:30pm and then, I will go to lunch.

Now, on Fridays, we have a meeting about our patients. (In case I forgot to mention this, I work at a cancer treatment center as the insurance specialist. Today, I was covering for our front desk since she took some time off for an extended weekend.) Last week's meeting went relatively quick so I thought now, It'll be over quick anyway. Our doctor comes in and gives all her information she normally does and finishes just before 1pm. I get my pen and paper together and I'm about to stand to walk out and the doctor on the other side comes in. Sigh (at our facility, we do radiation oncology. We have a medical oncologist [chemo] come in 3 days a week). I think to myself, I remember them saying he doesn't like to take long. Last week, he only took 20 minutes or so. This will be okay.

As you can probably tell, I got out around almost 2pm. A couple of the people had Subway which I was now wanting badly! I clocked out and made my way to the closest Subway. And I order like it's my last meal. Footlong chicken and bacon on Italian herbs and cheese bread with provolone cheese. Do I want it toasted? Heck yes. I load that sucker up with honey mustard and... well, a lot of veggies. Made it a combo!

By now, my stomach is churning and I know that if I don't get that sandwich in my belly, we will have a repeat episode of Wednesday. I pay for my lunch and hurry back to my break room.

I stare at this beautiful sandwich. Let's stop for a minute - do you know the sign of a perfect sandwich? If you are eating a perfect sandwich, when you bite, that slightest bit of juice will just go down your arm. No juice = lame sandwich. Anyway, I take a look at this sandwich. I take the first half and take the biggest bite I can. Honey mustard just goes down my arm.

I devour that first half in record timing. But now, the downside I have had of being pregnant - small meals are my specialty. I realize at that very sad moment that I will have to finish the rest later since I can't fit it in now. I reluctantly put away the other half of the sandwich and go back to work.

Cut to 5:00pm - I get all of my stuff together and get in the car just as Eric calls me. I tell him that I left him lunch money in our savings account and start to tell him about my sandwich. I tell him I saved the other half and I stop. I look next to me in my car... no sandwich :( Hurriedly I say to Eric, "I have to go, I left my sandwich at work!"

I haul through the Fry's parking lot to get back to work. I pull up and the last person with keys is leaving. I explain that I forgot my sandwich and she sighs and comes back with me to unlock the door so I can get my sandwich.

And I got it.

Now, excuse me, I must devour this beautiful creation.