26 Weeks + Baby Update

Maxi Dress / Old Navy (Maternity) * Cardigan / Banana Republic Outlet  *

Skinny Belt / J. Crew Outlet * Necklace / Loft

How far along? 26 Weeks 2 days

Total weight gain: According to my doctor's visit weigh in on Tuesday- I haven't gained any weight over the past two weeks.. Still at 20 pounds total weight gain. (Pre-pregnancy weight: 110lbs-112lbs.)  That wasn't what I was expecting to hear, but nothing about the appointment was what I wanted to hear.. 

Maternity clothes? Mostly maternity.  I can still wear some of my pre-preggo belts, cardigans (unbuttoned, of course) and a couple casual sweatshirts. My favorite is my cropped sweatshirt from Loft that I bought pre-pregnancy. I can still wear it due to the fact the 'crop' fits just over my bump:)

Stretch marks? Nope, not a one (still with high hopes for it to stay that way!)

Sleep: Still getting in some good rest during the night. The past week I have found myself wide awake at 5am- starving. So, yogurt in bed will get me through and I'll fall back asleep until about 8:30am or so. 

Best moment this week:  It is a toss up between the showering of love from our sweet friends and seeing our babies on Tuesday was amazing- they are so precious and beautiful. I am in love with their baby noses:)

Miss Anything?  Not really. I'm pretty content and getting used to the new norm for me and these babies.        

Movement: These lil' bits are strong! I've had a couple of uncomfortable jabs in the ribs, and I thought for sure it was Jolie- but the new position of the girls surprised me.. It was baby Parker breaking my bones in there..

Food cravings: Not really. Still enjoying the usual: fruit of all kinds, yogurt, cheese, peanut butter toast. But I've come to a point that nothing sounds 'good' enough to eat. Jordan has taken on the cooking, and that has made things easier for me to enjoy. I think the act of preparing the food before I am gonna eat it ruins it for me. I'm so thankful for my hubby. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Not really.  Dizziness has returned on occasion- although this is new medication induced. 

Labor Signs: Nothing that I am aware of, but apparently my body has been having increased contractions- I don't even feel them at all.  

Symptoms:  Having to pee all day long,  a heavy belly causing discomfort, the occasional lack of appetite.. and I'm super emotional.  

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Aside from random bouts of sobbing, I'm a happy girl.  This week has been a roller coaster ride of emotions.  I'm not moody at all- just humbled.

Looking forward to: Keeping these babies where they belong for as long as possible!

Babies: 26 Week Update

Look how precious they are.  I am so in love with them!!  They are both super healthy, active, and weighing in right on target for gestation.  Parker is now a full 2 pounds- she gained a half a pound in 2 weeks!  Jolie is 1 pound 13 ounces- still slightly smaller than her sister, but has been that way since our first sonogram at 6 weeks.

2 weeks ago they were both head down and on separate sides of my belly, and at the sonogram on Tuesday Jolie was in her usual place on the right side, but Parker was all up under my ribs and in her sister's space.  Her little feet were down by my right hip, and the sudden jabs in my ribs I've been feeling were arm punches.  This whole time I've been blaming precious Jolie for it;)  Parker is wrapped around her sister like a snake.  It doesn't surprise me at all, laying on my right side all the time is probably uncomfortable for her.  So she made her way around to the front- less smooshing there.

Momma: 26 Week Update

Babies 'passed' the appointment with flying colors.. momma, not so much. My belly is now measuring 37 weeks (4 cm larger than 2 weeks ago-I'm growing at super high speed! ) and after reviewing the results of my sonogram Dr. Walsh observed some significant funneling due to the weight of carrying two babies.  My body is clearly preparing for delivery- and it is way too early for that right now. Apparently I've been having mild contractions causing this funneling to occur (I don't even feel them).   I started Procardia (a blood pressure medication that is also used to prevent preterm contracting) on Tuesday and I've been put on strict bed rest. We return for another sonogram on Friday morning to see if bed rest has improved or prevented any further progression.  If it appears that the funneling has progressed, I will be put in the hospital for observation and labor prevention.. until when?  TBD.

Yowza.

So many emotions.  I'm so bummed.  Defeated.  Sad.  Wrecked.  Disappointed.  Helpless.  I've been crying nonstop.  But, according to my OB, there is nothing I could have done to prevent this- and I know because I asked, more than once. The weight of what would be a full-term singleton- and I have at least 11 more weeks to go- is just too much for my body to handle, and simple gravity has taken it's course.  How could this happen when just two weeks ago I had 'a cervix of steel'?? 

Walking into the appointment on Tuesday I was nervous, but the anxiety was related to the fact I was taking my initial glucose test, not because something was going to be wrong with me.  My cervix is still measuring at a 3+ (which is a positive!) But, 2 weeks ago I was at a 4+.  My OB is confident in my cervical length, it's just the funneling that has her concerned.  I was just was so sure all was going to pan out perfectly.   I was going to reach 37 weeks without a problem due to the simple fact that we have gone to every appointment and been praised for how well everything looks and how well I've been carrying these babies.  How naive and ignorant. 

I know and have faith that God is in control, and He has His perfect reason for it all.  Trusting and believing in His plan for me and these babies is really hard.  But, He didn't develop the human mind to figure out the future, and trusting in His way is all we can do at this point.  

*Proverbs 16:9 "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." 
*Psalm 25: 4-5 "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."
*Philippians 4:4-6 "Rejoice in the Lord always.  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to the Lord."

My hope is that I go in on Friday and she sends me right back home because bed rest is working. Praying so hard for that.  I know doing all this right now will possibly allow me to bring them home with me from the hospital- instead of leaving them in the NICU.. or even shortening their stay in the NICU if it comes down to that.  

I am so thankful to my sweet friends and precious family for the constant confirmation of love and support through these past couple of days.  I have been fearful, tearful, angry, and confused with all this.. but it is so awesome to know you have others leaning into you when you need them most.  After our doctor appointment on Tuesday I was an emotional wreck and in no condition to have company. Wednesday, all day, people were in and out to visit.  Almost every neighbor in the cul de sac stopped through to say hello, bringing sweet treats and magazines for me (none of which knew anything about my new condition on strict bed rest), and then last night I was completely spoiled by Ashley- who came toting a slew of books and magazines, flowers, and a bag of goodies for me to enjoy while laid up in bed.  Shortly after her arrival, Jacqueline and Travis (and my favorite baby Landon) came with (more) flowers and yummy dinner in hand.. and more snacks, sweets, and love for me and my baby girls.  I cannot express what these tokens of affection did for my spirits yesterday, and have continued to carry over into today.  It is amazing to see God's work to use those around me for physical support, and by no coincidence did our sweet friends and new neighbors make their presence to be with me on this first (and still emotional) day of full out bed rest.  

I know this is totally worth it in the end- just trying to get over the initial realization of it all.  Attempting to stay positive and waiting for Friday morning seems like eternity.  Ok.. enough of these tears.  I'll keep you posted for updates as they come. 

For now, just pray.  

High Five For Friday: 09.14.12

I missed last week's High Five.. I think I was still trying to get the hang of being at home- organizing myself.  I confess to have done a lot of blogging around work, and now being at home with nothing really to do, time gets away from me, and I completely forget to get my posts done!  I think I've done a better job this week, though:)  

Linking up with Lauren From My Grey Desk

1.)  This week was super busy for Jordan- working several days at the fire station, leaving me home alone for all but one night- boo.  My mom decided it was a good time to come in town for a visit keeping me company and spend some quality time with me and this belly.  She hadn't seen our new home or anything regarding the nursery decor, so it was a good trip.  I warned her that there would be a lot of lounging around.  She was a great sport and hung out in her PJs with me all day everyday.. well, almost.  We ventured out for lunch on one afternoon, but came straight back home after.  It was great to see her and have just mom-and-daughter time for several days in a row.  I even got an at home pedicure a la momma out of the deal:)

2.)  Being a dietitian has it's perks.  I always get dibs on great (and freeeeee) goodies and samples.  The American Heart Association has just released their newest cookbook just in time for the cooler weather-  a healthy slow-cooker cookbook.  Suh-weet.  They read my mind- I'm all about my slow-cooker and the easy meals that come out of it.  I was in the middle of meal planning for next week when my new cookbook hit the porch.  Right on.

3.)  I re-phrase my previous statement: Being a dietitian, with a healthy foodie blog, has serious perks.  I didn't get just one package in the mail this week (see #2) but I also got an overflowing sample pack from Mediterranean Snacks.  I got several bags and boxes of their Baked Lentil Chips and Lentil Crackers.  They are both deeeelish! They have just been certified as Gluten Free by the GF Certification Organization.  Not that I need GF, but it is a great, high fiber option for those with Celiac Disease.

4.)  Speaking of slow-cooker.. I tried out a new recipe for overnight oatmeal, and good gracious, it was yummy!  I had been seeing and pinning ideas from Pinterest and finally made my own version.  It turned out great!!  Check out Chocolate Broccoli for the end result of this Cinnamon Apple Overnight Oatmeal.

5.)  Like I made mention before- my mom and I ventured out one day for lunch- and by golly I made the best of my outing with this mini bundt cake from Corner Bakery.  Highlight of my day..  It was so yummy.  If I wasn't embarrassed to go up to the counter for yet a third time that afternoon (first to order my soup and sandwich combo, then a second time to order dessert..) I could have eaten two of them.

Being secluded to my house for week number two has been great.. lazy, napping, and quality time with my momma.  PLUS- I had special treats come to me- right to my door step.  I'll take it:)  I hope your week has been blessed!!  Yaay for Friday!

25 Weeks

Shirt / Destination Maternity

How far along? 25 Weeks 2 days

Total weight gain: According to my doctor's visit weigh in a week ago- about 20 pounds, give or take a pound. (Pre-pregnancy weight: 110lbs-112lbs.)  Still steady gaining 1-2 pounds/week- and although there is the occasional "I feel like a beached whale" comment (mainly when I'm getting up from the sitting position) I feel pretty confident in my weight gain.  Aside from the 'you are beautiful' statements I'm reassured with on a daily basis by my sweet husband, I'm not doing anything wild with my diet- like literally eating for three.  So the inevitable has become my norm.  

Maternity clothes? Full maternity.  Really, I've retired to comfy maternity.  I actually pulled the tags off the shirt I am wearing in the belly picture above before putting it on this morning.. I have a couple pieces of clothing I have yet to wear- when I bought them early on, they were huge on me- I had yet to really fill them out!  But, alas.. I have a rather large bump, and those clothes fit me well these days.        

Stretch marks? Nope, not a one (sweeeeetttt- hoping for it to stay that way!)
Sleep: This week is remarkably better.  After last week, I really thought I was doomed to surrender to insomnia.  Like I mentioned in the 24 week appointment update, my OB approved of me taking a low dose (25-50mg) of Benadryl to help me get my snooze on.  I took this two nights in a row (night one: 50mg, night two: 25mg)- mainly out of fear for not sleeping at all.  The next day it seemed as though the babies were just sleepy.. not as active as they usually are, moving around- but no flip-flops or strong jabs.  I haven't taken anything since Sunday night, and I've slept well, aside from the usual up and down for potty breaks.   The babies are their normal selves- active and beating the crap out of the inside of my belly.  I like that better.  Even though my very conservative OB approved it, the Benadryl will be used as a last resort. 

Best moment this week:  Jordan and I have been working on the nursery in bits and pieces- the cribs are up, changing table/dresser is bought and getting painted, finally decided on a glider, and Jordan's mom finished a project she has been working on for the girls.  She came over on Sunday afternoon and we set it up in the nursery- and it looks SO good!  My vision of baby girl nursery is coming together! I've found myself sitting in there just looking at it, and picturing Parker and Jolie in their cribs.  I also organized their closet and hung up clothes- serious nesting going on these days of being at home.

Miss Anything?  Sleeping through the night, and having a normal appetite.  I don't get a hungry feeling- I always feel full- with two babies in my belly, that is normal.  I've gotten to where I have to make myself reminders that it is time to eat.  If I go too long without eating I start to feel physically ill, and then I'm raging to find something to put in my mouth.  I try an avoid that raging situation- for the sake of others, as well.      

Movement: Busy, BUSY baby girls.  They are getting stronger and stronger.  Early morning while I'm still laying in bed they will both be moving around- I'll feel kicks from both ends of my belly.      

Food cravings: Not really. Still enjoying the usual: fruit of all kinds, yogurt, cheese, peanut butter toast.  I have a desire to have something in my mouth all the time- bubble gum, sucker, hard candy- you name it.  My mom  brought me some Blow Pops (sucking on one as we speak!), and those have kept me busy this past week.  Still waiting on my chocolate shake from Chili's...and cheesy tots with plenty of ketchup to go with.  

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Not really.  

Labor Signs: I had my very first Braxton Hicks contraction this week.  I didn't even know what it was until I described it to my doctor- she smirked at me and made mention that since my body thinks I'm 33 weeks pregnant, that the tightening of my abdomen is totally normal and will continue.  It has happened twice- once when I was leaning over to pick something up, and the other was when I got up off the couch a bit to quickly.  Lasts about 30 seconds and then its over.  
Symptoms:  Congestion comes and goes.  This week I started to get serious heartburn/reflux.  I have never ever had heartburn, but I dealt with mild reflux before pregnancy.  Both now are making me miserable.  I'm okay during the day- but in the late afternoon/evening, and all through the night- I feel like my throat is closing in and food is sitting right at the back of it. Blech.   I've been rather emotional this week- cried multiple times, and its not just a couple tears- it is full on breakdown, snotty nose, and puffy eyes to boot.  My mom left for home yesterday morning, and I lost it moments after she left- sniffling and talking between sobs to Jordan on the phone (he was at the fire station).  Hormones.   Also, the contant feeling of needing to pee.  I have started to conserve my use of toilet paper because I am going through it like water.  I can hardly contain myself when I am out somewhere and use the potty and toilet paper on someone else's dollar.  It feels so nice to use more than two squares of paper at a time.  I almost force myself to resist the urge to stuff a roll in my purse.  I know- please don't judge.   

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Aside from random bouts of sobbing, I'm a happy girl.  My doctor warned me that the steroids could cause me to become aggressive at times- and I was boldly boasting that they didn't affect me in this way.  The look on Jordan's face was clear that I shouldn't have been so bold with my statement.  Apparently there have been multiple times that he has had to force himself to just walk away for fear I may come after him with a butter knife if he questioned the attitude flying out of my mouth.  What?  Me?  Attitude? (try not to laugh too loudly, Bree..and Bree's son.)       

Looking forward to: Next week starts the first (or second, really) of several baby showers to celebrate these girls!  I'm looking forward to being with friends, family, and getting out of the house:)  We also have another doctor appointment on Tuesday, so I get to see my babies (again)  We are so spoiled!   

The New House {In Progress}

I don't have a clue why I haven't posted pictures of our house yet- I've had every opportunity to do so!  Last week I was talking to Jacqueline on the phone and she reminded me that she had been waiting to see pictures on the blog and that I needed to hop to it!  She was waiting- patiently, I'm sure:)

I've posted this picture of the front of the house before, but, it is a perfect starting place- don't you think?

The Front

The Entry/Formal Dining Room 

You can sort of tell from this picture that we have the scraped wood flooring in the entry, love it.   I adore our front door- the designed glass. (I took these pictures in the early afternoon- so plenty of light liked to mess up some of these photos)

The other half of the entryway.  Totally in love with our new furniture piece- a crazy steal of a deal from the Dallas World Trade Center.  The benefits of having a interior designer for a mother in law.  We plan to put another piece on the wall in front of the dining table and a large painting (visible when you walk in), but all in good time- budgeting it out:)

The Guest Bath  

I would show the guest room in addition to this guest bath photo, but couldn't get a good angle.. and it isn't 'finished' yet.  So you can imagine:)

The Main Living 

Looking in from the main hallway

Now looking in from the kitchen/dinette.   You can see some of the entry, and the walk-in to the left of the clock on the wall is the garage entry/ mud-room.  Jordan has plans for a good looking built-in to go there.. think hooks and a bench for backpacks, coats, and baby girl shoes:)

 The Kitchen

My absolute favorite part of the entire house!  Again- with the weird lighting.  

Double oven, walk-in pantry, and decent sized utility room (big enough to put another fridge in there for drinks and such.)

 Love my gas cook top.  Cooking over a gas flame is incredible.  My cooking temperature is so much more controlled and the food comes out cooked perfectly.  

 Looking over the bar and into the main living.

The Dinette 

Imagine a bar-height, round, four-seater table here..

 ..and three 30-inch bar stools to wrap the rather long bar we have.  All a work in progress.

 The Master Bedroom

I love our room- could hang out in here all day!

The woman that sold the house to us left that large mirror for our keeping.  I plan to go over the frame with a darker stain for a little more bronze and less gold.   But for now, it works.  I love to have the large mirror in our room!  Gotta check myself, you know;)

From the hall, looking in.

 The Master Bath

Not super huge, but perfect for Jordan and me.  Walk in shower, double sinks, and a jetted garden tub.  

The closet is really large, and fits all of my clothes as well as all of Jordan's clothes (before I had my clothes divided into a couple closets throughout the house.)

Love. 

So there you have it. A work in progress.  You didn't see the office (mainly because it is pretty empty, and has become a catch all for random paintings and decor we haven't quite found a place for yet.)

You also didn't see the guest room (already explained myself for this one..) And the nursery (because I want to share that when I'm all done with it!)  For the most part, you saw everything-and I will continue to post pictures as we complete rooms, add to, and make cuter.

I love/adore/swoon over our new home.  After the first night Jordan's mom asked if it felt weird to be in the new house- and honestly my answer was 'no'.  It feels like a home- even if at the time there were boxes everywhere and nothing hung on the walls.  It just feels right:)

So happy to have this place we call home. 

Homebound Status: Week One

Last week marked the end of my first full week of being at home- I enjoyed it!  

I talked of the 'stay-cation' Jordan and I planned since my OB scoffed at the idea of letting me go anywhere outside the metroplex- and seeing that we have been in our new house (house-in-progress pictures to post tomorrow!) for less than a month, we decided to make it a real stay-cation, and just stay home.  

Starting on Friday night, after my rather emotional last day of work, we went to dinner at a place we hadn't tried before- Sfuzzi's in Las Colinas.  It was YUM- and most of their menu advertised to be all natural and organic- plus, plus.  I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked the food- especially since I have become so fickle with my appetite (most of the time I haven't got one at all.) I enjoyed the Garlic Mozza Burger (adding an over-easy egg on top), and J completely cleaned his plate of his order- the Veal Porterhouse.  We also had to split the Tuscan Mac and Cheese- it was delicious, too!  The restaurant is known for it's pizza and pasta, so it was just about sinful to walk out of their without trying at least one of the two- and no surprise we went with a side dish of pasta:) 

I was miserable at the end- not even close to finishing my meal- and the thought of eating for the rest of the weekend totally repulsed me.  

Saturday, Jordan tagged along with me to do my regular Saturday morning routine of grocery shopping.  He has been coming with me the past couple weeks as it has gotten hard for me to push the cart and unload groceries to the car all by myself.  We made a stop for donuts on our way home- and let me tell you- best donuts I've ever eaten.  It has probably been 5+ years since I've had a donut of any kind, and me and these baby girls were thoroughly pleased.  My donut holes with sprinkles and white icing washed down with strawberry (1%) milk- breakfast of champs that morning!  

Saturday was spent being lazy- we had a couple visitors to see the house and rub my belly- but other than that we lounged and watched a couple movies and DVR'd shows before heading out, yet again, for dinner and a movie.  We ate Mexican this time- enjoying Blue Goose at the Highland Village Shops (after sending my food back once to change my order due to pure preggo repulsion.. so weird coming from the girl who eats anything. I was practically in tears when I sent it back.. but the waiter was so sweet and obliged my request.  I think he was scared of my reaction if he would have denied my request for change.) 

After dinner we went to see a movie- The Bourne Legacy.  Even though Matt Damon wasn't in the movie- it was still just as awesome as the others.  This says a lot- Jordan and I vote the Bourne movies to be among our top all time favorites.  We both walked in with critical thoughts, but walked out really pleased with the movie- definitely a must see!

Sunday was another lazy day- the best part was putting together the cribs!  Jordan was super eager to set them up.  I was curious, too- we had both been on the pure hope in the fact that they would both fit into the room with all the other furniture, and still have room to move around.

Good news- they fit perfectly:)  They are so cute, and look great in the nursery- an off cream color with slight distressing- will go perfectly with the rest of the decor (currently in the works).

Dinner was a pizza picnic (seriously picnic for me- I seem to be comfortable only on the floor to eat..) and a movie in our comfies- and off to bed early.  I was wiped out from all the activity of the weekend- and what would be lazy to some- was rather active to this preggo lady.

Monday marked to official first day of 'homebound' status- I woke up to this.. I could wake up to this everyday.  He loves on these babies every morning.  So sweet.  He is already smitten and googly eyed over Parker and Jolie.

I started each morning with the self-led Beth Moore Bible study over the book of Daniel.  After completing the first week- I am eager to continue on:)  Good stuff!

There is something wonderful about preparing my breakfast and enjoying my coffee all while still sans makeup and in my PJ's- quite an amazing thing.  Before this week, I typically would do all these things while multitasking (i.e. driving into work..)

I've been spoiled by my sweet husband- and totally taking advantage of my claimed 'helplessness'.   Jordan has been carting me around for little trips to get me out of the house in short increments- including stops at Sonic for yummy Diet Limeades and the best part- the after ice to go with it:)  Really enjoying my time with him!!

On days when Jordan is at the fire station, I've been spending serious quality time with our first baby girl, Brittany. She follows me around, sitting at my feet and keeping me in good company.  We watch plenty of movies, surf the web, and share turkey sandwiches.  The weather has been pretty nice this week (a bit hot to stay too long outside). So, when I just need a bout of vitamin D, we sit out side for a little while and soak up the Texas sunshine.

After our morning/afternoon of doctor's appointments on Thursday, we hung around Plano and had a late lunch/early dinner before our breastfeeding class that was to be held at Presby Plano (where I'll be delivering.)

Seeing that both appointments went so well, my doctor released me to sit in on this 3 1/2 hour class- over everything you need to know about breastfeeding.  The class was full- and I was the only one carrying twins (I was somewhat surprised by this).  The  lecture was run by a well read nurse, and I really learned A LOT.  I did a rotation through residency with WIC and learned a whole lot about breastfeeding, the benefits, the proper way to do it, and the special bond you build with your baby in doing so- all this was covered in more detail- but a few things I didn't realize..

1.) Never introduce the pacifier unless you have established a good routine with breastfeeding.  The hospital I'm delivering at is Baby-Friendly and wont even provide one to you during your stay, unless of course, you decided against breastfeeding. (Presby Plano is among only seven hospitals in the state of Texas- all of which are THR facilities! I love my company.)

2.) I also learned of the 9 stages of change a baby goes through during the first hour after birth- we watched a video over this and it really was interesting.

3.) The cues a baby gives can be easily missed- and crying to tell you they are hungry is the absolute last cue a baby will resort to.  Eventually, if the cues are regularly missed, the baby will learn (pretty quickly) that this is the only response they can give that will prompt mommy to feed them.  Breastfeeding or not, this is helpful to know.  I'll be watching out for these cues, for sure!

There was plenty more, but right now those are the three points that stick out the most to me.  I was pretty wiped out by the end of the day, so I'm kind of drawing a blank at the moment:)

I plan to breastfeed both of them- and hope I can for as long as I am able:)  But, I do realize that it isn't the end of the world if I cannot keep up with the both of them- even though it is definitely doable and I know mothers of twins that have done it.  Fingers crossed!

I have decided that I'm more thankful now than ever for my homebound status- this week I started suffering from serious insomnia.  That is 3:04am on my iPhone lock screen.  On this particular night I woke around 2:15am and I didn't go back to sleep until about 5:30am- got up again around 6:15am to get ready for the day (we had our doctor's appointments that morning.)   

I slept really well Thursday night- after a super busy day, but Friday night I actually didn't sleep at all.  Over the course of the night/morning I went from my bed, to attempt in the recliner in our bedroom, to the oversized chair in the living room, and back to my bed. I slept in 30 minute increments (not really.. more like rested with my eyes closed) for a total of about 2 hours of sleep.  I'm not uncomfortable the entire time, I just am simply not tired. Very strange.

Misery.  

After complaining to my OB, she agreed to allow me up to one 50mg dose of Benadryl to help me get some shut eye. I'm not super intrigued at the thought of this, but if it means getting some regular sleep, I think I'll cave in a few times a week.

All in all (aside from the insomnia) last week was a great week.  I am into week two, now, and have yet to go crazy, or bored, or restless..yet being the key word.  It seemed as though everyone I talked to before going homebound put it off as a negative thing- but I am loving it!  I do appreciate the calls and sweet texts from my precious friends to check in on me.. I continue to get them everyday, and they brighten my couch potato-ing quite a bit!

Jordan is quite busy this week- working a couple days of overtime in addition to his normal days at the fire station, on top of being gone during the day on the nights he is off- so my mom decided it would be a good time to come in to keep me company- paint my toe nails and make me food:)  Can't beat that!

Looking forward to the weeks to come- more relaxation and day time napping (this no-sleeping-at-night business will not get the best of me.) I suppose I'll be fine until I get too huge to move around as easily as I do now..

Until then, I'm not complaining.. but just forewarn.. the day will come when I'll start to complain because I can't really move from the couch.. or even get out of bed..

Baby(ies) 24 Week Check-Up

Last week (Thursday) we went for our 24 week doctor appointment to check in with these sweet babies and to see how momma was doing carrying them.  

It was a big day, or long morning rather, because we had appointments scheduled with both the perinatologist and my regular OB.  We started with a sono at the perinatologist's office, and I almost forget how fun it is to see our girls.  I am reminded the moment the doc puts that scan on my belly and I get a glimpse of them- err, one of them, they are too big now to see them both on one screen- no matter how big that specialist's sonography screen is (and her's is huge- about 52 inches!)  We invited Jordan's parents to tag along to this one, since we knew that the doctor would be scanning their little hearts and kidneys, and measuring their brains and tummies.  My OB did this at our 20 week appointment, but the perinatologist is more specialized and can see more if needed.

Let's start with the babies- the very best part:)

They are looking good!  I get somewhat anxious to think that I am responsible for these growing lil'bits, all their nourishment, care, and safety rely on me alone- I think you are a liar if you never got this anxious feeling during your pregnancy, twins or not.  

Dr. Koster (the perinatologist) confirmed everything Dr. Walsh saw at 20 weeks- all is perfect with these girls- hearts, organs, lungs, brains, and tummies all check out normal and healthy.  They have great muscle tone, the doc commented a couple times during the checks and measurements of their legs and arm bones.  They must get that from their daddy.. clearly:) They measure about an ounce apart at 1 pound 8 ounces and 1 pound 9 ounces.  Heartbeats are steady at 157 bpm and 152 bpm.  All good things!

Both Jolie and Parker were super busy and awake- which was good to be able to see them move around, especially since Jordan's parents were their to see.  They have gotten less active during the day and most active at night.  But, around the time I'm supposed to eat- they start to move around.. like a dog knowing it is about that time to get fed.  Early morning (breakfast) and mid afternoon (lunch) they start nudging me to the kitchen to get something in my stomach. They have a routine now, and even though my books talked about this routine of movement, it is still to wild to think these tiny things actually get it down to a science in the womb. 

We even got to see them both practice their suckling technique- and according to Dr. Koster- they are quite advanced to be doing this at 24 weeks.  You can see in this sono picture of Parker that she is actually sucking her thumb- how precious is that!  We watched her moving her tiny tongue, getting the sucking action good and going, and then saw her little hand move towards her mouth.  It was so amazing.  I couldn't stop giggling!  (I giggle anytime I feel a hard kick or movement in my belly, too.  Pure happiness and head over heals love for these babies.) 

Baby Jolie in the process of moving her head up and down, practicing the same suckling movement as her sister- and with her we got to see the swallowing of amniotic fluid (healthy, normal, and actually provides some nourishment).  You can see skinnie minnie here- both girls are skinny without any baby fat just yet- which will start to form around 28 weeks.

We took a CD to have this sonogram burned onto- which will be fun to look back at, especially since we got to see such great activity from them both.  The next time we go to see Koster, we will get to see them in 3-D- I cannot wait!

How's Momma doing? 

All is well with momma, too.  I got a light headed during the sonogram (as I did at the last appointment)- but Dr. Koster was prepared with a cool pack for my neck and was able to complete her scan without me laying on my back.  

Onto my next appointment with Dr. Walsh- and she was pleased with the sonogram results Dr. Koster faxed over for her review.  

"You have a cervix of steel."  My cervix is still measuring 4+, which is awesome, especially since the girls (together) have added another pound of weight to this belly I'm carrying around (I was at a 5+ at my 20 week appointment).  As I've said before, the length of my cervix is the highest determining factor of my chances of going into preterm labor- and my doc wants me to be at least a 2.1- or I'll be spending the rest of my term on strict bed rest or even in the hospital for monitoring.  So I am thankful for my cervix of steel.

The girls are at a point of viability now (able to survive outside the womb), and to be proactive my doctor put me on low dose steroids (3 pills/day for two days) to help with the increase maturation of baby girls' lungs in case I do go into labor in the next couple weeks.  With how well I'm doing and with no signs of risk for preterm labor, she doesn't think this will be the case, but my OB is super proactive (rather than reactive) and I love her for it.

As usual, my OB measured my belly with the standard measuring tape. The number a centimeters you are should match to number of weeks you are along- that is unless you have an extra set of baby/placenta/fluid/etc in there.  At the time of my appointment I was 24 weeks and 2 days.  She measured me at 33 weeks- calling it a growth spurt.  Yeesh, call it whatever you want.  I'm getting huge- and still with a hopeful 13 week to go.

From now on, I start going every two weeks, alternating between Koster and Walsh for sonograms (I'll get a sonogram every time I go, but some weeks I'll just see Walsh, and the next time I'll see both.)  My next appointment will be on the 18th of September at 26 weeks- where they will do the initial glucose screen for gestational diabetes- hoping I pass this first screen so I don't have to go back for the Glucose Tolerance Test (a long 4 hours of fingersticks).

Starting at 30 weeks I'll start going every single week until 37 weeks (December 5th), when she hopes to be seeing me for delivery!   I sure hope so.. I am desperate to make it to that 37 week mark.. But small steps and goals is what I need to reach for.

So, my first goal is to just make it to 28 weeks, and call it good for now. 

24 Weeks

How far along? 24 Weeks 2 days

Total weight gain: 20 pounds (Pre-pregnancy weight: 110lbs-112lbs.)  Steady gaining 1-2 pounds/week- We will see at the doctor this morning how much I actually have gained.  I confess to not be very regularly stepping on that scale.  

Maternity clothes? Full maternity.  I have retired to my comfies since starting my homebound status this week.  I am in love with these jersey pants from Gap (I have them in the blue and the brown) and currently sporting in the photo above this ballet top, also from Gap (even though it isn't doing much for me or my shape in this picture- it is much cuter in person).  Seeking out some kind of style since being at home- not really.  I really, really want some of these, but where would I wear them?  To doctor's appointments?  Out to the mailbox? My position on the couch to watch my DVR'd shows?  Someone would appreciate them, I'm sure.  More and more of my once 'too-big' maternity tops are becoming more snug.  What is sad is that I'm actually surprised when I attempt to slip one on over this belly, and it is more form fitting than I remember.  O-well.  What can you do? 

Stretch marks? None!  It is still early, tho.. but I'm hopeful:)
Sleep: I halfway dread getting into bed at night.  The best part about being at home  full-time now is that I can nap and lay around as much as I want- so a sleepless night isn't too bad.  I had a girlfriend tell me she slept the best she has ever slept while she was pregnant.  I could have kicked her in the shin for that comment, but whatever.  I love her too much to result in a shin bruise and would probably cry due to the overwhelming guilt (and preggo hormones.)

Best moment this week:  I can guarantee that my best moment will be this morning as we are getting to see our sweet little one's on the monitor.  We have our 24 week appointment with both the perinatologist and my regular OB.  We invited Jordan's parents along for this sono- they have never seen one before, so this will be fun.

Miss Anything?  I continue to miss sleeping through the night.  Other than that I'm pretty content. 

Movement: I have crazy lil'bits in my belly.  They actually kept me up some of the night this week- but I think part of that is the fact that I want to feel them move.  They are a little over a pound a piece now, and it is crazy to think that those tiny ones can create such strong movements.   

Food cravings: Peanut butter toast- duh.  Dairy- yogurt, cheese, yogurt, cheese, and more yogurt, milk, and more cheese.  Fruit- not a surprise.  Randomly I've had an desire for the chocolate sprinkle shakes from Chili's.  We never eat there (J isn't a huge fan..) but it is all I can think about right now.  If anyone wants to bring me one of those.. and a cheesy tots from Sonic, I'll call you my best friend.  Don't forget the ketchup- for drizzling over my shake.  Kidding.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Just laying on my right side or my back.  

Gender:  My girls!!

Labor Signs: Nope   
Symptoms: Always, ALWAYS having the urge to pee and being just plain sleepy (mostly because I sleep about 3 hours a night- up mainly between the hours of 2-5am.)  

Wedding rings on or off? On- but fear is creeping in that I may need to lay them to rest for the remainder of this pregnancy.. not yet, but I foresee it to be soon.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy girl for the most part,  cranky on occasion- but I blame the lack of sleep.  

Looking forward to: Today- getting to see my sweet babies on the sono screen:) I LOVE seeing them! I confess to being a bit nervous every time we walk into the doctor's office, not for any reason- just because.  Updates and sono pictures to come for our 24 week check-up!