Introducing..

Raegan Marie Petersen

our daughter..

She's as sweet as sweet can be. When I had our son, I fell in love with him instantly. When I saw his face for the first time it was like I already knew who he was and that he was my son. When I had Raegan, it was the same. You never think you could fall so in love with another human being until you have children. Until you have someone that is a part of you. All the feelings that you hear you feel in that first few seconds of meeting are true. And the second time is just as great!

Birth Story

Let's start with the day before. May 28th, I got the call from labor & delivery for my pre op instructions. Nothing to eat or drink past 8pm the nurse said. No big deal. I continued with my day as planned, went to my mother-in-law's house for dinner and cake/ice cream for my brother-in-law's birthday (which was the day before). My husband met us there since he was coming home from his work trip and all was great! We went home at a decent time considering we had a check in time of 4am. We put Nicolas to bed, I got some last minute items packed and ready to go, smoozelled with my husband who I missed terribly, and we were off to bed! Unfortunately my mind had other plans in store. I kept thinking..about EVERYTHING! Things that I still needed to pack, things that I still needed to do, things that could possibly go wrong. Like for instance, sometime during the night I heard my husband make a gurgling sound a couple of times. My mind instantly thought of a series of events that would possibly happen.

I'd have to take him to the ER because he was possibly choking.
Then I had to remember what hospital I would have to take him to (oh wait he has similar insurance to me and would go to Kaiser).
OH man! I hope he has his insurance card in his wallet!
At 4am I'd have to leave him to go check in for surgery!
That's in a totally separate building! Would they let me come back to him? No I would have just been cut open!
I can't be by myself!
He has to be with me!
Oh this isn't good, I hope he stops making those choking sounds!

CRAZY!

Anyway, 2:45 am was finally here and I had to get out of bed to start getting ready..yes to get ready! Makeup, hair, dressed (in yoga pants). I was meeting our baby girl and I wanted to be presentable! Before we left I made a point to scoop Nicolas from his slumber to give him a hug and kiss since this would be my first few overnights away from him! (ahhh!)

We left and were checked in at 4:10am. Leave it to us to be late on having a baby!

Once I got back to triage I had an ultrasound to confirm she was in fact still breech. YEP! Onward with surgery we would go. I got all prepped and soon everything was set and I walked with the nurses to the operating room (without Ryan)! The anesthiologist had me sit up with a curled back so he could place my spinal injection (which hurt and made me more nervous that I was husbandless at this point so I started crying). They got me all situated on the table, had the drape in place, and washed me down. Finally they called Ryan back to come be with me and they got started.

I couldn't feel any pain but I did feel like tugging and pressure against my stomach. About 20 minutes later the dr warned me that it would feel like an elephant was sitting on my stomach and that meant they would be taking the baby out!

EEEK!

Seconds later we heard the sweetest cry. A girl cry.

Before she was whisked away to clear her lungs of any fluid and to get cleaned off, the nurse briefly showed her to me and BOY she was small! I didn't know how small until they called out "6lbs 14oz! 18 3/4in long!"

WHAAAAT? How is that possible?!? Do you know how big my first was???

RAEGAN MARIE PETERSEN
BORN: MAY 29TH, 2012
WEIGHT: 6LBS 14OZ
LENGTH: 18 3/4 INCHES

We immediately did skin to skin while I was being "put back together" and it was absolutely amazing! I fell in love all over again! I not only am I lucky to have one product of both my husband and I but I now have TWO! Simply the best feeling in the world!

I was sent to recovery for about and hour or so while they monitored me and baby. By this time both our Momma's were here to check on me and gawk at our beautiful angel!

We were shortly moved to my post partum room and that is when the fun began. I got to hold my baby. I got to feed her. I got to stare at her. I got to kiss her endlessly. Pure bliss.

(picking up where I left off-day two) I'm ready to go home..today I took a shower, did my makeup and did my hair. I HAD to get out of bed. I had to get cleaned. BUT I do think I over did it just a little because tonight I felt the pressure of my incision and had a lot of gas build up to where I had a sharp pain in my right side where I felt like I couldn't take in a deep breath. I drank some nasty chalk medicine and some hot tea and that seemed to do the trick. Like I said though I'm ready to go home and sleep in my own bed and get down a routine with both my babies.

(I'll be posting pictures once I get home and settled. Even with my son I kept our hospital pictures private. I feel like because they are of their first few hours and days of their life, it makes them super precious. So I'll keep the same decision with our baby girl.)

life lately...

I feel like I haven't blogged lately..I guess it hasn't been a long stretch from my previous to last (which was what 10 minutes ago) but I feel like a lot has since then happened..

I was getting into the habit of taking Nicolas for walks around our neighborhood (which was great for getting out of the house and keeping him entertained) buuuuuuut since my appointment where I found out I was already 3cm dilated, we had to stop that for a while..at least so I can hold off until Tuesday..(I'll tell you why in a minute..)

Nicolas was even getting little tan lines from his flippies from all our walks.. sooo cute!

OK..back story.. My husband since probably the beginning of the month knew he would be leaving this weekend to work in Tahoe (2-3 hours away). He'll be back Monday either late afternoon or early evening..not sure but in the meantime I need to take it super easy. After all I do want him here for the birth! (No brainer!)

So we've been doing a lot of this..

and TONS of this..

and of course other things too like coloring and catching up on the latest Bubble Guppies :)

Mom however, once naptime hits, has been super crafty/organizing queen/ultimate preper..

Thanks to YouTube, I finally learned how to crochet a baby beanie! I have been whipping these suckers out like no one's business! I have so many ideas of how I can decorate them and maybe even sell them..we'll see though..

Goodwill find ALERT! I've been meaning to find a way to organize my jewelry in a way where I can see it because "out of sight- out of mind" and I won't think to wear any of it when I have tons!

(Pinterest inspired of course) I spray painted (a long time ago) some beer bottles for my bracelets, I already had my earring holder but just no where to hang it until..I found this beauty for $4! Now I can SEE all my necklaces! LOVE IT!

One thing that I had been meaning to get done (along with baby's nursery which you can read about here. ) was to get Nicolas' swings from the garage all cleaned and dusted off.

But of course once "you know who" saw what I was doing..

Product Find!! My mom bought these disposable placemats for me Nicolas for when we go out to eat. I must say, I've only used them once but I am very pleased with them. They stick right to the table and I can just gather it all together when he's done for easy cleanup. He likes the characters too!

I know that I just got done putting together baby's little area, but since I picked out her crib bedding the other day, I cannot wait to get her side of the room all prepared for her!

Not really too fond of the owl, I mean it's cute but I like the flowers so that's why I went with it. It's exactly the color scheme I wanted to go with so I'm happy with it.

I've been feeling really pregnant these days and I guess I should..but I cannot stress enough to you how badly I will miss this baby belly of mine. I'm in no way exaggerating how much I love being pregnant..I honestly feel a million times more beautiful when I rock this bump! Can't wait to be pregnant again!

(mini) nursery

When setting up baby girl's nursery we decided to have her in our room for multiple reasons..
1. I plan on breastfeeding so it makes it easier for night feedings
2. I know she will not be sleeping through the night, therefore I don't want her to wake Nicolas (we only have a two bedroom home)
3. We have plenty of room in our master for her

I remember Nicolas sleeping through the night at around 2 months so until she reaches a schedule looks like mom and dad will have a little company.

While on maternity leave I made an effort to get her space set up immediately. I was pretty eager to get everything in order but of course it was all finalized after my shower.

Here is little miss' corner..

A closer look...

Her headbands and her toys

Blankets, momma items, diapers & etc, nb clothes

Once we get her crib all set up in her brother's room I'll share the final result. (If we haven't decided to move by then.)

6 days and counting down..

Hello baby girl,

Today I got to see you via ultra sound and hear your precious heartbeat. I am at my 39 week check point with you and as the days go by I realize I am that much closer to meeting you face to face. As predicted, you were still "right side up" which means you will be delivered by c-section. Not my first choice, but today all my nerves were set at ease. I talked to my doctor about the procedure and had her describe what would happen from the moment I check in to the second I go to recovery. There is that slim chance that I could have you before our date on the 29th due to the fact that I am already 3 cm dilated! How did that happen? I must not notice the contractions or not pay that close of attention. Either way, because you are in a breech position, I have to go to the hospital once my contractions get as close as 10 minutes. (Not your average in between time but my doctor doesn't want me to have any stressed situations that could possibly compromise your health. I totally agree.) When I told your daddy what the doctor said, he sternly told me that I need to rest more and not be such a control freak at home. Not to over exert myself with cleaning and doing other household activities. He also said I shouldn't take you and your brother on walks until after you're born. (What he doesn't realize is I am not one to just sit on my butt, ecspecially since your brother is such a rambunctious little bugger) But now that I know how important it is for me to take it easy I will try to do so. I'm glad that over the weekend I was able to get everything in order for you. (blog post to come) The only thing left for us to do is get your crib set up in your (and your brother's) room. There are some things that I still need to get for you that aren't super important but things that are a must have for me.
1. memory book
2. swaddle blanket(s)
3. crib mattress (this is a must obviously but you'll be sleeping in your bassinet for a while)
4. car seat cover (again, not super important but I want to make it girly)

I believe that is all for now precious one. Well now that this day is almost done so 5 days...


p.s. We are so excited that your Uncle Mark is in town from Hawaii for your birth. He can't wait to meet you. I just wish your Auntie Devan, Uncle Chuck and cousin's were here also. Then all our family would be here and everything would be completely perfect!

Baby Shower

Yesterday I had my baby shower...

Can I just say I loved all the PINK that swarmed my house..

(I took like a million pictures but I won't bombard you with all of them)

My color scheme was obviously pink and leopard

I plan on hanging those poms over her bassinet and crib

My best friend Alyssia who helped me! LOVE HER!

My momma and ME!

My mother-in-law and me :)

We played the game "who can dress baby the fastest?"

Clothes, clothes, and more clothes!

Me and my boy!

The only boys at the party!

My darling son!

Everyone decorated a onsie for little miss

Add caption

This day was perfect! I'm ready whenever you are little girl!

Hospital Bag

Today I decided to pack my hospital bag. Even though I have a cesarean scheduled for May 29th, she could decide to turn on her own and I could literally go into labor at any given time. Scarey stuff. The unknown that is, not having another bambino. I really couldn't remember what I brought to the hospital when I had Nicolas, so I looked online and the list I found seemed pretty accurate.

For Mom: bath towel, a few pairs of socks (because my feet are always cold), a robe, going home clothes, bag full of girly things like hair ties and headbands etc. Off to the side you can see my list of last minute items I'll need to grab before the actual day like my camera, kindle, shampoo, makeup, tooth brush and paste, you know things that I'll probably use up until the day of at home.
For baby: This all depends on how long I will be in the hospital because I think with a C-section you have to stay one or maybe two nights longer than if you were to have a natural birth. That being said I packed baby girl 6 (yes I know, pretty extreme) outfits with matching headbands. A pair of newborn size shoes (so adorable). A mini minky blanket from her Auntie. A few more "over-the-top-headbands" just because. Her going home beanie that I may or may not put on her depending on what the weather is like. Same goes for the violet blanket, crochet done by yours truley. I also packed a couple handmade burp cloths that were given to me that are just so precious. Some things I will probably add after my baby shower like some newborn socks or maybe some more headbands to choose from...haha.

May 29th

That's the day..

The day I will have my daughter..

Of course if everything goes according to this new plan..

If you didn't read what the latest is on my pregnancy you can either just scroll down or click here.

My doctor finally called me back yesterday afternoon and we discussed how she didn't feel it was a great idea to have me schedule my cesarean until June due to the fact that her feet are down and the bigger she grows the more likely she could kick and break my water. I have my next visit scheduled for May 23rd and we'll check to see if by some chance she's flipped and then we'll go from there to talk about what my precautions are for labor since she could be a little acrobat and go right back up. On the chance that she's still in a breech position, we'll keep my scheduled cesarean for the 29th. Then once the 29th comes, they'll check me that morning to see if she's made her way down. If she has, I'll be induced and if not everything will go according to the plan of surgery.

The positives of having a scheduled C-section
1. I can PLAN everything up until then.
2. No awful contractions.
3. Longer maternity leave.
4. No..umm..stitching..down there..
5. (maybe) the 6 week no sex rule won't apply
6. I can stay in the hospital longer..that means nurses waiting on me hand and foot (hopefully) ::the obvious downside to that is being away from my first baby :( but I'm sure it will be harder for me than it will be for him::

Although I really wanted to have a June baby (just like me) I realize that I need to let that go and pray that everything goes wonderfully. I'm trying to stay positive and I am looking forward to meeting my baby girl..

20 days.. the countdown begins

Pregnancy Update

Today I had my 37 week prenatal appointment. Everything went smooth in the beginning as it always does. Checked in. Gave my urine sample to check for normal protein. Called back by the M.A. BP was great (120/73) Weight..ehh ok..I'm pregnant, so not a number I like but my gain is still very good. My appointment was just to check if I had dilated any more than my last visit (last monday). My doctor came in, we chatted a bit about after care, birth control, any of my concerns, and basically just caught up from the last time I saw her. (I've been seeing her Nurse Practitioner for my last three appointments or so.) I lied down so she could measure me and check baby's heart rate. By this time princess was moving all around. Her heart rate checked in the low 200's. Not good. My doctor said she would give me a stress test after we were finished with the visit just to make sure she was alright. (My nerves started rocking) She then checks to see my labor progress and she corrected my previous reading by letting me know I was more like 1 maybe 1 1/2 cm dilated.

Then..she tells me she thinks my little sweetheart is breeched. (Legs down). She leaves the room for a quick second and is back with an ultrasound machine. Sure enough. Her head is at the top of my tummy. (OH NO! I want to cry) She again checks her heartrate and everything checks out normal. She must like doing her gymnastics in the morning.

We then talk about my options.

Option number one:: I can schedule a cesarean for when I reach term and if by chance she turns down on her own then I will just be induced to have her vaginally.

Option number two:: I can go in tomorrow morning for a version. Where the doctor hooks me up to an IV and tries to manually (by pressing on my belly) move the baby to turn down. There are some risks by doing this. There is a small percentage that my water could break, there's a small percentage that the umbillical cord will become pressurized, a small percentage that my placenta will tear, severe cramps, heavy bleeding (pretty much there's a chance for things to go bad). All of which if they happen will cause me to have an emergency cesarean. However, if sucessful then I will deliver vaginally whenever she decides to come.

It always seems like when you're in the doctor's office you're questions and concerns leave your head. You can't think clearly when you have just been told this type of news.

What to do..what to do..

I went ahead and scheduled to check in at labor and delivery for the version and if later in the day changed my mind, I could always call and cancel. I want so badly to deliver her the way I'm supposed to. I want my body to listen to what my mind wants. I want my baby to understand and flip on her own so I don't have to go through this crazyness. I want all my fears and concerns to leave my heart and just have everything go as planned.

After talking with my husband (who would support any decision I made), my sister (who's advice I hold very dear), my mom (who brought up very great points), my mother-in-law (who consoled my concerns), and a doctor who I work with who is an ex-obstitrician (who set my mind at ease and made my decision more clear), I knew what I wanted to do.

I went ahead and canceled my version for tomorrow morning. I didn't want there to be any risk for my little one. A c-section is not on my list as it is, so to think that I could possibly have emergency surgery..NO THANK YOU! 

I emailed my doctor to call me so we can schedule my cesarean. In my message, I mentioned how I would like to schedule it as far from my due date as they would allow, to give her as much time to turn on her own as possible. I have yet to hear from her but my next appointment is on May 23 so if I don't talk to her before then, we'll discuss it at that visit.

bigger concerns:: I'M SCARED!! 

When my doctor told me that she was in a breech position I cannot even begin to explain my feelings. It's not supposed to happen like this. This is not how I planned it. I know that this isn't the end of the world but surgery scares the day lights out of me. I've delivered a baby before, I know what to expect. I know how it goes down and to think that I don't know what could happen is beyond my comfort zone.

I know that worse things could happen and I shouldn't complain. However I can get my daughter out allowing both her and I to be healthy, I'm all for it. It just is unsettling to know that when you become pregnant, you think that after 12 weeks you have the green light. Things will run smooth from here on out. What you don't think of is how you have absolutely no idea what goes on inside your belly. Scary stuff. You think your baby is in the safest place and there's no danger. But the reality of it is YOU. DON'T. KNOW.

So for now I will try to think positively. Not focus on what my future delivery could be like. I will talk to my baby girl into flipping for momma and see if that works. I WILL relax more, so I don't cause unnecessary stress to her.

I just want a happy, healthy, beautiful daughter, delivery and recovery.

I FOUND HER!

I recently did a post about what I thought Nicolas would look like before he was born and you can read about that here.

I was mentioning how I didn't yet have a picture of what I thought our little girl would look like until...

It may be a far fetch but I don't care. When I look at this little girl's hair it reminds me of what Nicolas' hair looked like before we cut it. I see her complexion and know that our daughter may be the same. Our girl's hair might be a little lighter like her brother's but it wouldn't be much of a surprise if it came out dark like her daddy's. I'm so eager to see if this picture resembles our angel in any way.

I am so excited to meet our sweet baby girl and I'll have this picture to admire while I wait for her to arrive.

Counting down..my last month

please pay no attention to my outtie of a belly button.. :)

Dear R________,

Today marks my last month with you. It is definitely bittersweet. On one hand I cannot wait to meet you and kiss your sweet face, dainty hands and lovable toes. On the other hand I know I will miss the feeling of you from the inside. I read a quote a while back that said

"No one else will ever know the strength of my love for you. 

After all, you're the only one who knows what my heart sounds like from the inside." 

Those words could not speak more truth. With both you and your brother, I fell in love with you when I heard your heartbeat for the first time. I found out I was expecting (again with you and your brother) at two weeks along. I had a "feeling" something was different and boy was I right! I loved being pregnant and it seemed like time flew by. I love you with every ounce of my soul.Your daddy and I cannot wait to completely fall in love with you once we meet face to face. I will miss you being a part of me. I will miss all the attention I get from carrying you. I will miss all the smiles and excitement you bring me when you wiggle and squirm around in my tummy (however it is nothing like the break dancing your brother did, and for that, I thank you darling). I will miss grazing my hands over my baby bump as if I'm lightly touching your cheek. I will miss dressing for a pregnant physic. HOWEVER, there is so much to look forward to. These last 30 days or so (depending when you decide to arrive) I will cherish every kick, every dance, every poke of you trying to break free from my belly.

At my appointment today my nurse, upon examination, said that I am currently 2 cm dialated and 60% effaced. (probably TMI, oh well) I don't think I'll be very late with this pregnancy like I was with my son...10 days to be exact.

Work Baby Shower!!!!

Today was mine and my co-worker's baby shower at work! It turned out so cute because she's having a boy and I'm (obviously) having a girl. Our lunch room was decked out in pink and blue. SO ADORABLE! We both took home LOTS of baby goodies!

Yea...I'd say the people I work with are pretty amazing! I think I'm most happy for all the Mary Jane socks I (baby) got.

Also, did I mention the Dr.'s and other professionals in the office all pitched in to get me this...

Which should be delivered to me sometime while on maternity leave!!! Hopefully all put together..haha. 

I am truly grateful for where I work and the people I work with. They obviously are very generous and sweet people! A special thanks is in order to my mother-in-law aka our Office Manager for planning this whole shindig for me and the other expecting momma in our office! Everything turned out wonderful and it just made me so much more excited for my baby girl to arrive!

Random thoughts THURSDAY

One of mine and Nicolas' favorite things to do is play with chalk outside. I usually run out of pictures to draw besides my go to "flowers, sun and sky" or "i love nicolas" or "i love mommy/daddy." This time I copied the cute little monster from his shirt. Pretty good artist if I do say so myself. 

I LOVE INSTAGRAM..not especially for the "picture social networking" but for the quick and easy effects I can give my pictures. This one made me smile ...

Momma and her baby boy :)

Yesterday I made one of my favorite dinners. Chicken Parmesan! YUMMY! Nicolas ate a ALL his chicken and ALL his peas! He is such a great eater! Makes me happy!

It literally is the cutest thing ever when I see Nicolas climb on the couch just to watch TV like he's a grown man. NO BIG DEAL MOM! But I swoon..every time!

This morning I had THE BEST breakfast ever! Left over combo pizza! This momma was in heaven! 

Of course I picked off the onions and bell peppers, NOT a fan whatsoever of them!

Today, we (my husband, baby and I) had our family hospital tour. Which I guess I really didn't need to go on seeing as how I've had a baby before. But this delivery will be at a different hospital so I guess it was worth it. Verdict:: my labor and delivery room is smaller (not by a lot) than the one I had for Nicolas but the recovery room is definitely bigger than my last one. On our way home to keep my child entertained, I gave him my name tag that he thought to stick on himself..can you say CUTIE??

  I think that's it for now...

 

Our names..

I was curious to see if any of our names made it on the popular names list of 2012. I'm happy to report that the only name that made the list belongs to my husband and my son (middle name). Ryan came in at #20. However, the rest of our family's names did not place AT ALL! (Kind of surprising because I thought Nicolas and Nicole are pretty common..guess not.) I am SUPER happy that the name we picked for our daughter is not on the list also! (Her name will be withheld for the time being) I remember being in school and having at least one other Nicole in my class. So annoying! I'm glad that hopefully baby "R" will be flying solo in the name department in all her classes. If not, I'm sure the way we plan to spell her name will make her stand out just a little.

Here's the list I went off of just in case you were wondering... :)

Rank	Male	Female		Male	Female
1	Liam	Emma
2	Mason	Olivia
3	Ethan	Sophia
4	Noah	Ava
5	Jacob	Isabella
6	Jack	Ella
7	Aiden	Chloe
8	Logan	Abigail
9	Jackson	Mia
10	Benjamin	Madison
11	Lucas	Emily
12	William	Lily
13	Jayden	Charlotte
14	Joshua	Avery
15	James	Amelia
16	Matthew	Addison
17	Elijah	Hannah
18	Alexander	Harper
19	Owen	Sophie
20	Ryan	Zoe
21	Michael	Grace
22	Gabriel	Zoey
23	Nathan	Sofia
24	Andrew	Aubrey
25	Caleb	Natalie
26	Luke	Elizabeth
27	Carter	Brooklyn
28	Dylan	Anna
29	Gavin	Claire
30	Daniel	Audrey
31	Oliver	Lucy
32	Samuel	Lillian
33	Max	Layla
34	Landon	Samantha
35	Tyler	Ellie
36	Eli	Gabriella
37	Connor	Evelyn
38	Henry	Taylor
39	Joseph	Victoria
40	Hunter	Leah

8MONTHS! (pregnancy update)

Today marks my 32 week milestone. BOY did I never think it would come this quick! Yet here we are.

-At this stage in my pregnancy (my SECOND time around) I love love LOVE the satisfaction I get when other (older) veteran moms ask about my pregnancy probably thinking that this is my first since I am semi-young. Then I "lay-it" on them that NOPE it's my second! Like BOOYA! I've done this before! No need to hear your first-time-mom advice!

When I was pregnant with Nicolas, a co-worker of mine asked me when I was approaching my 4th month if I had morning sickness. When I told her no, she asked again how far along I was and then said "oh well you're still early on, it'll come." As if I didn't know what I was talking about. Or that I clearly couldn't be different. It almost makes me have a smirk that not only did I not get sick with my first but that I didn't with my second either. And now that I'm expecting again, when women ask me if it's my first and learn that it's not, the conversation ends. I guess I'm not that interesting to talk to if they can't tell me horror stories about becoming a mom.

-EVERYTHING gives me heartburn. Not unbearable but still uncomfortable.

-I have been getting crazy leg cramps. EVERY night. Some so bad they make me jump out of bed before I'm even fully awake. I usually drink a glass full of water and eat a banana (always have those suckers stocked because they are Nicolas' favorite!) Then walk it off. I'm sure I look crazy in the middle of the night walking aimlessly around my dark house, banana in one hand, water in the other and half way sleeping still.

-I've had to catch my breath when I get in my car, mainly because I've usually just gotten my 30+ pound kid strapped in. But even still I notice I have to do daily activities at a more steady pace so I don't start panting like a fat girl.

-It's getting noticeably harder and harder to put on my socks and shoes. Could it be because I have this ginormous bump in the way? Possibly. I want to paint my toe nails but I have a gift certificate I'll probably put to good use soon. I cannot wait for flip flop-everyday-maternity leave!

-Yoga pants are my new BFF! So comfy and yet not so lazy looking. I can still look way more presentable in them than your average sweat pant. Which on weekends makes for a lovely outfit.  

-When I was pregnant the first time, I wanted "regular" food. Dinner food. Comfort food. With this pregnancy, I could literally eat a cupcake for breakfast. Cookies for lunch. Ice cream for dinner. With candy snacks all throughout the day. My sweet tooth has intensified beyond my wildest dreams.

-Lately I've been so energetic (maybe all the sweets have something to do with that?). From the second I wake up I feel like I could run a marathon. I've cleaned the house from top to bottom everyday since Friday. My laundry is low, my sink is free of dishes (except for tonight because I'm blogging and then going to bed), makes this mom happy happy HAPPY!

-Looking at the calander, I have 4 weeks left before my maternity leave can kick into full gear. When I went on leave before Nicolas was born it was merely because I wanted to be lazy. (haha) But this time I want to enjoy the spring time with my favorite toddler! (Also if I can save a little $ from daycare I'm all for it)

-Because I only have 4 weeks left of work, technically 3 beacuse the last week I'll be training my temp replacement where I normally make them work for me (I'm mean I know), that means I only have 8 weeks left of being pregnant! HOLY COW! When it's put in that description, I don't have a lot of time to savor my belly before my baby gets here! It's crazy when I think that soon I'll be a mommy of TWO! At first I was scared, not going to lie. But now I'm excited. More than excited. I don't think there's a word to describe it really. I know it will be hard but what truly is easy? Everything is a learning experience. I also take pride in the fact that my husband and I got Nicolas on a schedule quickly and have stuck to a schedule no matter what! (That's honestly the trick, kids need that day-to-day routine to function, I didn't need to read it in a book to learn that one because I still have to have a routine that allows me to function) I know that once we get "in the groove" of things there will be nothing to worry about. I'm confident in my mothering techniques that I'll be fine with whatever the future brings. And just in case I need a helping hand, I'll know where to look.

-The one thing that I am "biting at the bit" about is going into labor. NOT actual labor because I remember what that was like and if I survived it once I know I'll survive again. But the thought of my water breaking or timing my contractions makes me so anxious I can hardly breathe. I'm a "planner" by nature and the unknown freaks me the heck out! My biggest concern out of the two is that my water will break. I'm a semi-germaphobe so the thought of leaking fluid anytime-anywhere makes me want to throw up! It's absolutely disgusting! Like what if it happens on my couch? I'll never want to sit- or have anyone else for that matter- sit in that spot. EVER. Or heaven forbid it happen in my bed. (GAG) We would DEFINITELY have to purchase a new mattress because there is NO WAY we would be able to clean it! I've voiced my concern of this to my husband and his suggestion was to have a towel handy for wherever I sit or when I go to bed. What I don't think he realizes it that a towel is NOT going to soak it all up! I wouldn't even want to go to the hospital, I'd just want to forever take a shower so I wouldn't feel so gross. Anyway you get my point I'm sure. Contractions however, I want to be aware of them. I don't want them to come out of the blue. I had to be induced with Nicolas and that was PERFECT because Ryan could read on the monitor when the needle was going crazy and tell me to brace myself because a "big" one was coming. AWESOME! I could prepare! (Control freak much?? YES!) I asked in my appointment today how long they would wait before I could talk about being induced and my nurse told me 41 weeks without a doubt. Music to my ears! (So precious little girl please be patient and let mommy plan your arrival. Thank you sweets!)

-(Which brings me to my next topic) I'm such a hopeless romantic. My technical due date is May 28th per my Dr. but when I went in for my 20 week sonogram the tech said I was more like June 1st. So unless it was significantly off (by more than 7 days) they won't change it in the computer. June 4th would mark my 41st week and would be when I would get induced if it came down to it. Well, 6 years ago on June 7th is when my husband and I officially started dating. How sweet would that be for our little girl to be born on the day her parents became exclusive 6 years prior? That day would have double meaning in our hearts forever! (Something definitely I will bring up to my Dr. if everything goes as planned..fingers crossed)

-Now for the numbers..BP 120/71 (PERFECT!) Weight gained total so far- 24lbs! (Super excited about that for sure! Although if I keep eating sugar I'm sure that will change.) Baby's heartbeat- At a steady pace in the 140's.

8+/- weeks...56+/- days...1,344+/- hours until we meet our baby girl!

girls and their BABIES??

Sunday while sitting in the foyer at church (because Nicolas would prefer to talk, loudly if we sit inside) I noticed something. I'm usually not alone, there are other families with babies and toddlers that are in my same boat. There is this family that I see every weekend. A mom and her 5 children. The oldest is a boy and the rest are girls. (I feel so sorry for that little boy). But this last Sunday I noticed that one of the little girls was carrying a baby doll car seat. My initial thought-"WHAAAAATT??" 

Looked similar to this...

Now I don't know if I'm alone in this or what but I do not agree. I don't understand the purpose. I know that girls are "supposed" to me more nurturing and what not, or want to do the things that they see Mommy do. But in all honesty it creeps me out. I do not whatsoever see the innocence in it! I find it to be very disturbing to teach my daughter that she should learn early on how to take care of a "baby." Growing up I never did this. I was too busy playing outside. Picking flowers. Swinging on my grandma's back yard swing practicing my music career by making up my own songs. haha.

Then while I was Google searching for a picture of this car seat (because I obviously couldn't take a picture of this little girl in church), I found more equally icky pictures of disturbing baby accessories.

Like such...

(a more elaborate car seat) ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

(wow can I get a stroller like this for my REAL kid??) hahah

Like really?? this is ridiculous! 

I don't want to give the impression that I'm judging moms who buy these things for their daughters and refer to their dolls as "babies" but me, personally, do not agree. period. I plan to refer to them as dolls or friends. I don't want to give her any kind of impression that caring for a child is something she needs to learn at an early age. Granted I know that most of the time it stops at referring to dolls as their baby but regardless I still find it to be disturbing. 

My opinion ONLY..please do not take offense.

Time is just flying by..

Yesterday I had my 7 mo prenatal visit. I'm now in my third trimester which means its all down hill from here. I talked with my nurse practitioner about counting kicks and tracking contractions. I also filled out my birth plan which was super easier filling out the second time around. It just blows my mind to think about all of this because that means I'm just "that" much closer to having my little girl here! I'm excited to see what she looks like..I'm excited to see Ryan with her for the first time and over the moon excited to see my TWO children interact with each other. I'm in semi disbelief that I will soon have another child other than my son to call me "mom." I'm not worried about anything other than going in to labor naturally. With my son, I was 10 days late and had to be induced. I guess I just keep playing in my mind that I'll be out at the store while on maternity leave with Nicolas and my water will break (like you see in the movies) weird to compare knowing this is my second pregnancy and how I know "it" is NOTHING like what Hollywood portrays. In all reality, I think I'm getting anxious to see my little girl and hold her and smell her...(i told Ryan the other night that I honestly cannot wait to smell her) I think that's something only moms can really understand because the look he gave me was anything but understanding. All I know is that soon I will experience falling in love all over again when I see my daughter's face. It's truley surreal that I am on this journey of motherhood. A few years ago I knew I wanted to be a momma but never would I imagine where I am today. Feeling so grateful for how our family is continuing to grow. Although I want to live in the moment as much as possible I can't help but look forward to all the great things that we have in store for us.

Girly girl

Can I just say that I am so looking forward to having a girl. I'm looking forward to all the flowers, the bows, the cutesy clothes and especially the frilly dresses!

My grandma goes to Los Angeles often to visit family and one of our favorite past times is to go to the flea market on Olvera Street. You can find so many things there that have Spanish inspiration and I could honestly spend hours roaming up and down the street admiring all the vendor's items. This last time she went, I asked her to keep an eye out for a Mexican dress for my little girl and today she totally blew my expectations out of the water with what she brought back. It has the sweet simple look with a hint of color in the crochet flowers. It has lace sewn into the fabric to make it extra girly. Then to top it off there is a ribbon to tie in a bow at the neckline. Beautiful! I cannot wait to see my precious gem wearing her dress from Olvera Street where I will have to take both my babies to someday.

first time update on my second time around

As many of you know..I am expecting our second child..a baby girl this time. I haven't really done a blog about being pregnant expect for announcing that I was and then again when we found out what we were expecting, mainly because I have nothing really to report. This is after all my second time around and yes it is still super exciting but not new like it was when I was carrying our son. To be completely honest, I have no symptoms aside from the fact that my bump keeps growing. Call me lucky but sometimes I do wish I could relate when it comes to talking to other moms about sleepless nights or morning sickness or even crazy cravings. NOPE nothing! I sleep just fine, my first trimester consisted of feeling great, and other than my outlandish sweet tooth (pregnant or not) I don't really have a desire for anything I don't already eat. I am now 28weeks (7 months with 3 more to go) and am feeling wonderful! I love everything about being pregnant, the way I look, the way I feel and the way I draw attention to my little girl already. One thing I can say that is different about this pregnancy from my first, is this time I haven't really felt the baby. At first I was concerned immediately thinking something was wrong because I felt my son right at 16 weeks and beyond. Every time I would go to a prenatal visit she was doing well with a regular sturdy heartbeat. Then when I went to my 20week sonogram (my second meeting with my little darling) I could clearly see she is in fact wiggling around in her little swimming pool. Then after that I would feel her every now and again. Even still she moves very infrequent and if this is any indication that she will be nothing more than a calm, cool, and collected little angel than so be it, no disagreements from me. I have one little rambunctious child and if she graces the world with her relaxing attitude, it will definitely make the transition of going from one child to two a whole lot more smooth. So I guess that's all for now on the update even though it's not really much of one. Until next time :)

Rules for mothers and daughters :)

I just had to steal this because after I read it, I was in tears! I am anxious to have a daughter soon and every "rule" are reasons why I can't wait. There is no bond like that of a mother and daughter!

I stumbled upon this at heaps of love where she originally shared it from diapers & dasies. I hope you enjoy this as much as I do!

25 Rules for Mothers of Daughters. 

Source: Pinterest- meggielynne.tumblr.com

1. Paint her nails. Then let her scratch it off and dirty them up. Teach her to care about her appearance, and then quickly remind her that living and having fun is most important.

Source: Pinterest:  art-e-zine.co.uk

2. Let her put on your makeup, even if it means bright-red-smudged lips and streaked-blue eyes. Let her experiment in her attempts to be like you…then let her be herself. 

Source: Pinterest: sp2.fotolog.com

3. Let her be wild. She may want to stay home and read books on the couch, or she may want to hop on the back of a motorcycle-gasp. She may be a homebody or a traveler. She may fall in love with the wrong boy, or meet mr. right at age 5. Try to remember that you were her age once. Everyone makes mistakes, let her make her own. 

4. Be present. Be there for her at her Kindergarten performances, her dance recitals, her soccer games…her everyday-little-moments. When she looks through the crowds of people, she will be looking for your smile and pride. Show it to her as often as possible.

Source: Pinterest: crazycraftycousins.blogspot.com

5. Encourage her to try on your shoes and play dress-up. If she would rather wear her brother’s superman cape with high heals, allow it. If she wants to wear a tutu or dinosaur costume to the grocery store, why stop her? She needs to decide who she is and be confident in her decision.


6. Teach her to be independent. Show her by example that woman can be strong. Find and follow your own passions. Search for outlets of expression and enjoyment for yourself- not just your husband or children.  Define yourself by your own attributes, not by what others expect you to be. Know who you are as a person, and help your daughter find out who she is.

Source: Pinterest: flickr.com

 7. Pick flowers with her. Put them in her hair. There is nothing more beautiful than a girl and a flower. 

Source: Pinterest- 500px.com

8. Let her get messy. Get messy with her, no matter how much it makes you cringe inside. Splash in the puddles, throw snowballs, make mud pies, finger paint the walls: just let it happen. The most wonderful of memories are often the messy ones.

9. Give her good role models- you being one of them. Introduce her to successful woman- friends, co-workers, doctors, astronauts, or authors.  Read to her about influential woman- Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Marie Curie. Read her the words of inspirational woman- Jane Austen, Sylvia Plath, Emily Dickinson. She should know that anything is possible.

 Source: Pinterest- google.com

10. Show her affection. Daughters will mimic the compassion of their mother. “I love yous” and Eskimo kisses go a long way.

11. Hold her hand. Whether she is 3 years-old in the parking lot or sixteen years old in the mall, hold on to her always- this will teach her to be confident in herself and proud of her family.

Source: Pinterest- weheartit.com

12. Believe in her. It is the moments that she does not believe in herself that she will need you to believe enough for both of you. Whether it is a spelling test in the first grade, a big game or recital, a first date, or the first day of college…remind her of the independent and capable woman you have taught her to be.

Source: Pinterest-  weddings.halbergphotographers.com

13. Tell her how beautiful she is. Whether it is her first day of Kindergarten, immediately after a soccer game where she is grass-stained and sweaty, or her wedding day. She needs your reminders. She needs your pride. She needs your reassurance. She is only human.

14. Love her father. Teach her to love a good man, like him. One who lets her be herself…she is after all wonderful.

Source: Pinterest- blog.hgtv.com

15. Make forts with boxes and blankets. Help her to find magic in the ordinary, to imagine, to create and to believe in fairy tales. Someday she will make her 5 by 5 dorm-room her home with magic touches and inspiration. And she will fall in love with a boy and believe him to be Prince Charming.

16. Read to her. Read her Dr. Seuss and Eric Carle. But also remember the power of Sylvia Plath and Robert Frost. Show her the beauty of words on a page and let her see you enjoy them. Words can be simply written and simply spoken, yet can harvest so much meaning. Help her to find their meaning.

Source: Pinterest-  instagr.am

17. Teach her how to love- with passion and kisses. Love her passionately. Love her father passionately and her siblings passionately. Express your love. Show her how to love with no restraint. Let her get her heart broken and try again. Let her cry, and gush, giggle and scream. She will love like you love or hate like you hate. So, choose love for both you and her.

18. Encourage her to dance and sing. Dance and sing with her- even if it sounds or looks horrible.  Let her wiggle to nursery rhymes. Let her dance on her daddy's feet and spin in your arms. Then later, let her blast noise and headbang in her bedroom with her door shut if she wants. Or karaoke to Tom Petty in the living room if she would rather. Introduce her to the classics- like The Beatles- and listen to her latest favorite- like Taylor Swift. Share the magic of music together, it will bring you closer- or at least create a soundtrack to your life together.

Source: Pinterest- thehollywoodgossip.com

19. Share secrets together. Communicate. Talk. Talk about anything. Let her tell you about boys, friends, school. Listen. Ask questions. Share dreams, hopes, concerns. She is not only your daughter, you are not only her mother. Be her friend too.

20. Teach her manners. Because sometimes you have to be her mother, not just her friend. The world is a happier place when made up of polite words and smiles.

21. Teach her when to stand-up and when to walk away. Whether she has classmates who tease her because of her glasses, or a boyfriend who tells her she is too fat- let her know she does not have to listen. Make sure she knows how to demand respect- she is worthy of it. It does not mean she has to fight back with fists or words, because sometimes you say more with silence. Also make sure she knows which battles are worth fighting. Remind her that some people can be mean and nasty because of jealousy, or other personal reasons. Help her to understand when to shut her mouth and walk-away. Teach her to be the bigger -the better- person.

22. Let her choose who she loves. Even when you see through the charming boy she thinks he is, let her love him without your disapproving words: she will anyway. When he breaks her heart, be there for her with words of support rather than I told-you-so. Let her mess up again and again until she finds the one. And when she finds the one, tell her.

Source: Pinterest- justquotes.org

23. Mother her. Being a mother—to her—is undoubtedly one of your greatest accomplishments. Share with her the joys of motherhood, so one day she will want to be a mother too. Remind her over and over again with words and kisses that no one will ever love her like you love her. No one can replace or replicate a mother’s love for their children. 

Source: Pinterest- marrabelle.deviantart.com

24. Comfort her. Because sometimes you just need your mommy. When she is sick, rub her back, make her soup and cover her in blankets- no matter how old she is. Someday, if she is giving birth to her own child, push her hair out of her face, encourage her, and tell her how beautiful she is. These are the moments she will remember you for. And someday when her husband rubs her back in attempt to comfort her...she may just whisper, "I need my mommy."

25. Be home. When she is sick with a cold or broken heart, she will come to you: welcome her. When she is engaged or pregnant, she will run to you to share her news: embrace her. When she is lost or confused, she will search for you: find her. When she needs advice on boys, schools, friends or an outfit: tell her. She is your daughter and will always need a safe harbor- where she can turn a key to see comforting eyes and a familiar smile: be home.