Adventures of an Infertile Mommy

I'm back!!

2012-02-20T07:56:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Thank you so much for being patient while I took a break from my blog to spend time with my little man. Bean will be 1 month this week (agh this just blows my mind). These last few weeks a lot has happened.

Bean learned to...

sleep in 4-5 hr gaps during the night
how to breastfeed like a pro (without the shield sometimes)
that Mommy and Daddy have panic attacks when he poops/pees on his changing table
how to drink out of a bottle
that Daddy is the best snuggler because when Mommy holds him all he wants to do is eat
how to do tummy time
that reading is fun
that he is very very loved!

Mom & Dad learned way to much to even type. It's crazy how much your life changes when you become a parent. Life has defiantly revolved around Bean since his birth.

My goal with this blog is to post at least 2-3 times a week and to do a better job of updating everyone. I'm also attempting a move to wordpress so please be patient.

As thanks I'll leave you with these adorable pics...

on the day you were born

2012-01-30T17:12:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. I'm taking a little break from this blog/internet while I enjoy my son. I want to thank everyone for your love and support. And I want to thank you for being patient. If you are missing updates check out my twitter.

Before I take my break though, I'll share my birthstory as promised. It's a little long.

Bean,

If you ask Mommy or Daddy we will be quick to tell you the day you were born was the happiest day of our lives. We have never wanted anything more than we wanted you. You are our dream come true.

At 10:00pm on Saturday (Jan. 21) night I was sitting in bed reading on my kindle when I heard a very distinct pop sound. I got up and started to walk downstairs when I felt a gush and I started leaking water. I quickly ran to the bathroom and jumped in the shower. When the leaking didn't stop I just knew you were on the way. I went and woke Daddy up right away. As he rushed around and got the car packed I started to get contractions. On the way to the hospital we were so excited. I don't think I've ever been more anxious and excited for anything before in my life.
We arrived at the hospital at 11:30pm(ish) and filled out paperwork (even though we pre-registered). We were finally admitted and my contractions were really starting to hurt. I had to stop a few times trying to get to the maternity wing because the contractions stopped me in my tracks. When we got into our birthing room I was checked for progress and was told I was 2.5-3cm dilated. I was able to move around while I labored and tried a few different things. I tried the birthing ball but since I had back labor that wasn't helpful. I found walking around, having Daddy rub my back, and the laboring tub to be the most effective. At 2am(ish) the nurse checked my progress again and found that there was no change. Although it was in my birthplan to try to not use Stadol I felt like it was best for everyone if I slept and rested up since it was going to be a long night. The Stadol made me feel like I had a buzz but I was able to rest. Daddy and I decided we wanted to wait until 4am to have our progress checked again since there had been no change at 2am. At 3:45am I begged your Daddy to get the doctor. My contractions were coming one after another and I couldn't breath through them. I was literally laying on my side screaming in pain. The nurse came in and I was dilated to 6-7cm and in transition. Your Dad and I were in shock. I instantly requested an epidural and the nurse left to call in the doctor. It took an hour and a half to get the anesthesiologist but it felt like it took so much longer. As soon as the epidural kicked in I was able to really enjoy my labor. The contractions were controllable but not too painful and I felt like I could do this. At 5:35am I had another progress check, I was 10cm dilated. Your Daddy and I were getting really excited to meet you. At 5:52am I had my last progress check, I was completely ready. I was feeling tired but as soon as you Dad and I heard this we woke right up. Knowing that you would soon be here is a undescribable feeling. I was beyond anxious. I started to push at 6:40am. Every time I felt a contraction the nurse asked me to do three big pushes (counting to 10 each time). I was very motivated to get you out. It was just Daddy, the nurse, and the doctor (Dr. E - Dr. G wasn't on call) in the room. The lights were low and it was very quiet since I was still on the epidural. We were given 2 hours to get you out since every time I pushed your heart rate went crazy and the nurse was having a hard time finding your heart beat. At about 8:15am the doctor came in and told me it was time to have you. He asked if he could use the vacuum to get you out faster and we didn't hesitate to say yes. We wanted you out and safe.
At 8:30am on January 22, 2012 you made our dreams come true and began your journey on this Earth. Dr. E handed you right to me and your Dad and I discovered you were a boy together. I held you in my arms and just cried tears of joy. Your Dad and I just stood there and looked at you, we were completely smitten. Dad got to cut the cord and I immediately tried to breast feed you. Feeding you for the first time was the most amazing experience.You were only taken away for a few minutes to weigh and have your heart rate checked. They also pumped your poor little tummy since you had swallowed some amniotic fluid. Your Daddy and I spent the next few hours alone with you just in awe.

If you ask either of us we wouldn't change the way your birth went at all. You and me were both healthy and safe and that's all we ever wanted. Bean, you are our life now and we can't wait to watch you grow.

Bean is here!

2012-01-24T20:32:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad I prewrote (and scheduled) so many blog posts since I've been in the hospital since Saturday night.

Our miracle has arrived, our beautiful baby boy who will remain Bean on here. Bean was born on January 22, 2012 after 10 1/2 hrs of labor (labor story later on). He was born at 8:30am, weighed 8lbs, and was 20 1/2 inches long. Both Mama and him are doing great. He is a breast feeding pro :)

We just look at him and cry because he's everything we have ever wanted. We are very much in love and I will most likely be taking the rest of the week off my blog as I get into the groove of things. Thanks for your understanding, I shall reward you with some photo overloads.

Overpack much? {hospital bag: part 2}

2012-01-24T03:00:00.000-08:00

Here's what we are taking to the hospital: (not pictured: our pillows and Bean's amazing car seat)

1: Bean's bag
2: my bag : 2 nightgowns, 1 robe, 1 pj pants/shirt, outfit I'm wearing home , deoderant - makeup - etc, comfy socks, slippers, kindle fire and charger, Baby 411 book, baby book, planner
3: Boppy
4: Mr.Awesome's bag: change of clothing, PJs, slippers, pills, phone charger, camera
5: Breast pump

Am I missing anything? We will also grab some water bottles and snacks.

Birth Plan {don't judge}

2012-01-23T02:00:00.000-08:00

Okay I know I said I wasn't going to do taboo posts (because of know-it-alls : you know who you are) but some very wise women have told me that I should write down important things in my pregnancy so I can look back on them (since pregnancy brain turns into baby brain). So, this post is mainly for me and although I appreciate feed back, please keep your negative comments to yourself. If you have suggestions on something I may have forgotten please feel free to share.

Now before I begin I want to add that I'm very go with the flow, most of this is just stuff I *hope will happen. I am very aware that birth plans are just that ... a plan. I'm also writing this exactly how I wrote it down so let me know if the wording is weird.

Birth Plan:
No Analgensics - Narcotics (Stadol or Demerol)
(I'm okay with everything else including an Epidural)

Please don't offer me any drugs, I know my options and I would like to try natural first.

Only my husband and minimal staff in the room.

Mirror?

I would like to:
- move around (during labor), try different options like birthing ball, tub, hands and knees, etc.
- eat/drink and keep my contacts in
- minimal monitoring of baby, progress, etc.

After Birth Plan:
Donate cord blood?

My husband:
- cuts the cord
- announces the sex?
(whatever he is comfortable with)

Skin to skin contact and breastfeeding immediately after birth.

No formula (or Nuks?) - breastfeeding only

No HepB shot - Vit K & eye ointment are okay

*Husband stays with baby - baby rooms in with us

Visitors are okay when we (me & husband) are ready

Apgar score?

** All of these are pending complications and I've also requested to talk to my LC right after birth. The question mark ones are things I'm either not sure about or just personal reminders for me to ask about.

Weekly check-in {wk ending 1/21}

2012-01-22T02:30:00.000-08:00

I did super awesome this week on the declutter challenge. Between my insomnia, contractions, and insane nesting instinct I completed the entire list in one day (well night).

I think my favorite part this week was clearing off one of our bathroom shelves for Bean's bath things. (note: our bathroom is next on our list to update and I cannot wait to update this closet!)

Ta-Da

Bean's basket of little bath things

This weeks tasks:
1/22 take a nap (don't have to tell me twice)
1/23 - 1/26 Go through one storage shelf
1/27 - 1/28 Go through one storage pile

Random pregnancy stuff

2012-01-21T03:00:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of very random thoughts to share so enjoy.
(warning: this post is semi-bitchy)

Pregnancy Pet Peeve of the week: I realize that having Bean on or around his/her due date is best case scenario and it's what I'm aiming for... BUT don't lecture me when I voice how impatient I am and absolutely do not respond with "you have waited 9 months, whats a few more week". I didn't wait just 9 months. I waited almost 4 years to conceive and then 9 months. I have never worked harder or waited longer for anything and being this close to the end is just killing me.

Bean update: Bean is on the move. Now that his/her head is way way down (in 0 station) his/her entire body is on my left side. Not only is it killing my back but it's making my belly look down right comical. On a related note: Bean has a big bootie. :)

Pet update: My pets have been driving me crazy this week and I feel so bad. Every time I have a really bad contraction they all swarm around me. I know they are showing concern and I love them for it but at that moment it's the last thing I want. I'm also starting to worry how they will respond when we bring home Bean, especially my two babies (Zoe & Oz). Anyone have suggestions to make our transition a little bit easier?

Sleep: Any advice on how to get a better nights sleep? Lately my sleep schedule goes like this: finally fall asleep at 1am, wake up at 3am, wake up at 5 am, wake up at 7am for the day.

39 Weeks {hopefully my last weekly update}

2012-01-20T13:32:00.000-08:00

Despite my sickness last week and the fact that I'm still pregnant, I'm feeling really good this week. I've been crampy and having contractions since Tuesday (when I had my false hospital run) and I feel like Bean could come any day. And I'm not alone, Dr. G didn't even give me my weekly pee cup (for next week) because she's convinced I won't make it to my EDD. But even if I do I'm feeling much better about everything.

(I'll try to post a new belly pic soon, I forgot to take one this morning.)

My Weight: 152.2 lbs (no gain or loss - woohoo)
Bean's HB: 145
My belly is measuring: 39 weeks (right on)
Progress: 80% effaced (same as last week). *almost 3 cm dilated (1 more than last week), cervix is getting lower and Bean's head is still in zero station
Other *maybe labor signs: Super strong irregular contractions, nausea (maybe from contractions), less Bean movement

Dr. G also swept my membranes today. We are hoping it helps get these contractions more regular. Anyone else have suggestions to help encourage my contractions?

Tricksy Baby

2012-01-18T06:29:00.000-08:00

Mr.Awesome and I thought we would be announcing Bean's birth today but our baby seems to be a trickster (much like it's Daddy).

At around noon yesterday I thought I may have broken my water but I wasn't having any contractions. I called my OB and decided to hang out at home and see if anything changed. Mr.Awesome went to bed (since he works 3rd) and I spent the day cleaning and playing word games on my phone (my new obsession). At around 5pm I was feeling pretty crampy so I decided to do a kick count. Bean failed the count twice, even after drinking some caffeine, getting up and walking around, and eating a little. At 6pm I woke up Mr.Awesome and we decided to go in just to be safe. We finished packing our hospital bags (nothing like the last min) and started the 20 min trip there. On the drive I had two contractions (first one starting at 7pm), by the time we got there my contractions were coming every 10 min. They registered me and hooked me up to the monitor. Bean had a nice strong HB 135-140 and was kicking at the monitor thingys (little stinker). They ran the test and I was not leaking amniotic fluid. They decided to monitor me for awhile since I was having steady contractions but I was eventually released.

We went home and continued timing my contractions but when there was no change I decided to try to sleep. I finally fell alseep around 11pm even though I was still having contractions. I woke up at 3am from pain, timed them again and then went back to bed. Woke up again at 6am and have been having contractions about every 10 min since. My contractions are still mostly not painful so I'm assuming these aren't the real deal but hopefully it'll turn into some real ones soon.

Wish me luck!

*Also, when we go in to birth Bean I'm going to try to sneak some pictures of the birthing suite to show everyone. We are giving birth in a new hospital and it is amazing.

Poor puppy

2012-01-17T12:52:00.000-08:00

I feel like such a bad blogger these days. I'm either too sick to blog or all I blog about is the upcoming birth of Bean. It's just so hard to find topics to blog about right now since other than my pregnancy nothing major is happening in my life. I'm officially not working, my last book store day was a week ago, and since it's WI in the winter there isn't a whole lot to do so I've been hanging out in my house. Lucky for me hanging out in my home isn't so lonely. I have my three littles (cats) and Z too keep me company but apparently my bad attitude is wearing off on them as well.

Case and point: Zoe and her pout lip...

...and Izzie, who hid in Zoe's crate for a day (I'm pretty sure to get away from me)

(ignore tools and bad pic, I took this in the dark using my flash)

Anyone have blogging ideas for me or ideas on how to stay busy?

Weekly check-in {wk ending 1/15)

2012-01-15T17:57:00.000-08:00

This week I didn't do very good at all. In fact the only things I did get done were because I've recently done them and there wasn't much left to do.

Monday: Today's task was: declutter our night stand. Check, since our nightstand is currently a folding chair that holds a lamp, my glasses (when I'm sleeping), and my kindle.
Tuesday: Today's task was: declutter the top of your night stand but since it's a chair, it was already done. I moved on to Wednesdays task: clean out under your bed. Under our bed there was one Zoe toy and some dust.
Wednesday: Today's task was: clean out under your bed. I completed that yesterday so I moved on to Thursdays task: clean off bedroom shelf. I don't have one but I had planned on cleaning off the top of our dressers which seem to become catch-alls. Instead I was sick with the flu.
Thursday: Sick with the flu, no progress on the calendar. I had planned on doing Friday's task: throw away junk in your junk drawer, luckily I don't have one.
Friday: Feeling much better but still not 100%, no progress on calendar.
Saturday: Sick again with a different flu (I kid you not). Today's task was organize your junk drawer, again I don't have one.

I'm hoping to do much better this week pending the birth of Bean. It feels like Bean could come any day now but we will see.

This weeks tasks:
1/15 Dance in your living room (since I'm still recovering I'm thinking this won't be happening)
1/16 Get rid of the hair doo-dads you never wear
1/17 Toss expired skin care
1/18 Get rid of expired medication
1/19 - 1/21 Go through one bathroom drawer or shelf

This week I'm also going to try to take at least one picture of a completed task.

38 week appt.

2012-01-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

Before I update everyone I want to once again thank those of you who entered my giveaway! I really hope all of my "new" and "old" followers continue to stick with me, this blog is about to get really interesting.

We had a rough week. Between my tiny mental breakdown and the flu it's been exhausting. But I'm glad to say my spirits are lifted and I'm feeling much better today.

My Weight: 152.9 lbs. (down another lb since last week due to the flu)
Bean's HB: 144
My belly is measuring: 38 weeks (which is right on, take note that I was measuring 38 weeks last week too)
Progress: 80% effaced (+5% from last week), *almost 2 cm dilated (same as last week) , cervix is still high (same as last week), Bean's head is in 0 station and Dr. G said my cervix feels much softerOther *maybe labor signs: Bad contractions/false labor, nesting, losing weight?, flu or flu like symptoms

And just for fun, 38 week pics. Do you think my belly dropped yet?

Bellflower Books Giveaway Winner

2012-01-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much everyone for entering my Bellflower Books giveaway! I hope those of you that are new followers continue to follow my blog and watch my journey as I become new mother (any day now I hope). I am just thrilled with how many people were interested in winning and I think Bellflower books is too. So without further ado...

Congrats to WeeMason's Mom (entry 84) who tweeted about this giveaway!

You can check out the original giveaway post to see her announced on the rafflecopter.

WeeMason's Mom you have 48 hours to get back to me!

Justin Bieber

2012-01-11T11:31:00.000-08:00

Today I have the flu and/or I'm in pre-labor *crossing fingers it's labor*, either way I am miserable and I'm spending my day equally in the bathroom & on the couch. Oops TMI sorry. Anyways, I ~~totally on purpose~~ accidentally clicked on Justin Bieber: Never Say Never on my netflix because Zoe is a fan.

Quick side note: I so do not have a closet case of undiagnosed Bieber Fever. This was 100% my dogs choice.

All I can say is OMG, I'm moved. I did not have very high expectations for this movie at all and I'm shocked by how much I'm enjoying it. I'm also shocked to find out that JB sings a lot of songs I like (I'm really bad at learning song names/artists). All in all I guess this pointless post is a plug for JB's movie and if you have netflix you should get all up on that.

Oh and I will keep everyone updated on whether this is Bean Watch 2012 or just a super nasty stomach Flu.

Also it's the last day so...
**Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a $75 gift code to use at Bellflower Books: Giveaway**

37 weeks update {discouragement}

2012-01-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

For someone who tried to conceive for almost 4 years and left the sex of Bean a secret I'm really struggling with the wait for labor. I'm so so ready to meet my baby and I feel like I'm in a funk. These days I'm just very hormonal and sad and I want to be done. And knowing that I could potentially have to wait another month (if Bean is late) puts me almost in a panic. I'm ready for labor. I trust my Dr, I trust my husband, and I trust my body to do what needs to be done. I'm just ready.

My Weight: 150-152 lb ; even though I haven't changed my eating/exercise (or lack of) habits I'm losing weight, so far Dr. G says she isn't too concerned at this time.
Bean's HB: 144
My belly is measuring: 38 weeks (1 week ahead)
Progress: 75% effaced & *almost 2 cm dilated, cervix is still high
Other *maybe labor signs: Bad contractions/false labor, nesting

**Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a $75 gift code to use at Bellflower Books: Giveaway**

Also, I got a disc full of my maternity pictures! I cannot wait to share them with you, unfortunately I need to go to Ducky's to get them online soooo hopefully soon :)

Weekly check-in

2012-01-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

So I meant to do this post yesterday but eh I'm almost 38 weeks pregnant (I feel like that excuse enough).

I mentioned the other day that I was doing a new Decluttering Challenge with a few other bloggy friends (Adventures of Wee Mason Man & Harvesting Kale). So I thought I'd do a weekly check in to let you know how well (or not well) I did.

This week I did okay. *In my defense I'm hugely pregnant.

I forgot to start the challenge until Tuesday but I did complete almost everything. I wasn't able to do tasks 3 & 4 since Mr.Awesome wasn't down with me standing on chairs to declutter and dust the top of anything. I tried to replace those days by cleaning my couch (another pinterest find) but Mr.Awesome put a swift stop to that as well since there were so many fumes. I circled all those tasks and will go back to them when I'm no longer pregnant.

I'm hoping to do better on this weeks tasks:
1/9 What 5 values do you want to explore this year?
1/10 Declutter your night stand drawer
1/11 Clear off top of nightstand
1/12 Clean out under bed
1/13 Clean off one bedroom shelf
1/16 Throw out the junk in your junk drawer
1/17 Organize your junk drawer

**Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a $75 gift code to use at Bellflower Books: Giveaway**

Decluttering my life

2012-01-06T04:30:00.000-08:00

Source: imgfave.com via Amber on Pinterest

This is how I look when I clean ;)

This year I've decided to try yet another challenge, a decluttering challenge. With life so busy it's so easy for my house to get cluttery quite quickly. Thanks to the suggestion by Kale's Mom and Wee Mason Man's Mom I'm going to use this calender to help me reach my goal...

Source: mysimplerlife.com via Molly on Pinterest

This weeks declutter tasks are:
1/1 Think about who you want to be this year.
1/2 Set up a donation center
1/3 Declutter the top of your cabinets and dust
1/4 Declutter the top shelf of one of your cabinets
1/5 Go through your spices and discard expired or old ones
1/6 Put all your cans together on a can shelf
1/7 Go through your freezer to let go of old, freezer burned food

On Sunday I'll let you know how I did. Feel free to join me if you'd like to.

**Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a $75 gift code to use at Bellflower Books: Giveaway**

Bellflower Books {Review & Giveaway}

2012-01-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you but I am not a very crafty person. If I was to scrapbook or actually put pictures in an album it would take me at least a year to finish it, assuming I even would finish. With that being said, I was looking for something special I could do for Bean that wasn't too complicated but was very meaningful. I was more than happy when I found Bellflower books (or, rather they found me).

Bellflower books is a small women-owned company run by two childhood friends, Heather & Kerry specializing in memory/photobooks. What makes Bellflower books unique from typical photobook companies is their collaboration function. The collaboration feature allows you to create a meaningful book with input and additions from whoever you want to work on it with.

I decided to make my Bellflower book be a compilation of letters to Bean.
I emailed and asked all my close family and friends to write Bean a letter and to add a picture. Our book turned out so much better than we ever anticipated. The website was easy to use (even for non-computer savvy me) and for my family/friends who didn't have Internet I just had them send me a handwritten letters that I could add myself. There are so many different styles and options that each and every book turns out so unique and special. The only snag I ran into was getting people to submit their letters or send them to me, which wasn't Bellflower's fault. I think most of the problem was my timing since I was asking for their input for our book over the holidays.

When we received our book in the mail we were very surprised and pleased by the quality.

You can make Bellflower books for so many different occasions and special events and the finished product is so great, it's defiantly something we will keep forever. I highly recommend this company.

To buy: Visit Bellflower books. And don't forget to check out their twitter.

Great news! One lucky Adventures of an Infertile Mommy reader will win a $75 gift code to make their very own Bellflower book. To enter use the rafflecopter bellow. The winner will be drawn on January 12, 2012 and will have 48 hours to respond.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
* Disclosure: I was provided the opportunity to make my own book from the above named company in exchange for my personal review. All opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and are not a result of any outside influence.*

Maternity Pictures

2012-01-04T04:30:00.000-08:00

Last week Mr.Awesome & I took our maternity pictures. It was freezing outside but we got some really good inside ones. We are both thrilled with how they turned out.

(36 weeks pregnant. Photos taken by our very talented and amazing friend Amie)

36 weeks/appt.

2012-01-03T04:30:00.000-08:00

On Thursday I was officially 36 weeks pregnant which means 4 more weeks to go (to my EDD)...woohoo! I am so excited to meet my little Bean, not to mention to be done with pregnancy (although I know I'll miss the Bean kicks). And because I only have 4 more weeks we are now going in for weekly appts/progress checks every Friday, starting with this last Friday. So I'll be doing small updates to keep y'all in the loop.

My Weight: 154.6 lbs (officially up *just about 35 lbs)
Bean's HB: 137
My belly is measuring: 37 weeks (1 week ahead)
Progress: Not dilating yet but Bean's head is way down and my cervix is thinning.

Bean watch 2012 has officially begun!

Hello 2012

2012-01-02T04:30:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I don't know about you but I'm so excited for 2012. For starters, Mr.Awesome & I will be welcoming our much awaited miracle, Bean, into our family sometime hopefully this month. It is also my first official year at my new job: SAHM.

But besides those two very important events in my life I have a few other resolutions, or goals for this year:

1. I would like to take more walks. More as in, I would like to take walks period. Since I've been home I haven't been very active and I'd like that to change. I live in a small town where I can literally walk just about anywhere so I really have no excuse. Add on to that that I have a lovely pup who could accompany me.

2. I would like to learn how to sew. I have a sewing machine that I inherited from a friend and I have yet to use it. I would love to make Bean some burp rags, changing mats, etc but alas I don't even know how to turn the sewing machine on. I'd also like to start knitting again.

3. I would like to make my own soap. It amazes me how much laundry Mr.Awesome & I accumulate, I can't imagine adding Bean's in the mix. Since we are down to one income I think this is an area where I can really save a few dollars.

4. I would like to learn how to use all the features on my camera. My photographer friend Amie lent me a digital camera book and linked me to some good site, I've just lacked the time to sit down and really start learning.

5. Speaking of friends, I would like to spend more time with mine. I talk to all of my friends often but I don't see them nearly enough. I'm hoping to set up play dates.

6. I would like to set a new goodreads goal of reading 30 books this year. In 2011 I set a goal of 100 books and missed it by about 20. The reason this years goal is so much smaller is because I'll obviously be a new mommy.

7. I would like to blog at least 4-5 times a week.

What are your new year goals?

Goodbye 2011

2012-01-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

2011 was an interesting year for us...

In January:

Mr.Awesome & I met up our Fertility Specialist, in search for some answers. We celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary and we finally came up with a TTC plan, which involved an HSG. We joined a Church, which has brought us much peace this year. I also started a few different book & reading challenges.

In February:

Zoe and her poor shaved belly.

I hosted my first blog giveaway(Homemade with Love), poor little Zoe got spayed, and I made a wish list. I wrote a TTC update & we decided to start taking charge of our finances with Dave Ramsey's TMMO.

In March:

I made a list of my Spring must haves, contemplated running for President, and had a few dark days. I ended March with a goal to reduce the stress in my life.

In April:

I reveled how I stay so tiny without really working out and also what my day looks like as a nanny. I busted a TTC myth, thanked some important people for their infertility support, and Mr.Awesome and I made the tough decision to take a TTC break and concentrate on our TMMO.

In May:

Pooh playing piano.

I was featured on Katie's blog Love is Everywhere, I declared a Nanny Appreciation Day, and I survived my angel baby's EDD. I also created a super awesome summer bucket list and shared life lessons I learned as a nanny.

In June:

I announced my PREGNANCY, I got my beta results back (confirmed pregnancy), and had my first Bean appt.(on the phone) and a later U/S. I also took my first (of many) pregnancy belly pictures & started doing weekly updates.

In July:

We met our OB (Dr. G) & had another U/S. I also told my nanny kids I was pregnant (and got awesome reactions), became dehydrated, and had to have an extra U/S to check my amniotic fluid levels. I posted about survivor guilt - pregnancy after infertility, gave a TMMO update, and Zoe celebrated her 1st birthday

In August:

My morning sickness finally left, I wrote a post about what all infertiles should know about pregnancy, and Mr.Awesome & I created our before Bean wish list.

In September:

I started my Bean's bounty meme, had another U/S (19 weeks - gender still a surprise), and we hit the half-way mark (20 weeks). Mr.Awesome also felt Bean kick for the first time.

In October:
We started out our month out rocky but overcame many Murphy's due to our TMMO savings account. I had an amazing guest post on baby wearing (written by Randalin who blogs at: Harvesting Kale) and I was featured at Krissi's blog Stress Free Infertility. I also participated in the Truth about Trying campaign by redbook.

In November:

My friend E (also pregnant) and I at my shower.

I posted about (ideas on) saving money, we made it to the third trimester (and had our GD test), I had a TMMO update, and I had my baby shower. I ended the month by blogging about my 30 days of Thanks challenge and saying good bye to my nanny family.

In December:

Zoe, Oz, and I in front of the tree.

I posted about the beauty of pregnancy, had some major changes on my blog, posted pictures of our Christmas tree, announced some very important info pertaining to Bean's birth (and after), packed Bean's hospital bag, and I got to go to some Christmas programs.

I hope everyone had an amazing year like we did. I can't wait to see what 2012 brings us!

Bean's Bounty - Christmas addition

2011-12-29T08:21:00.000-08:00

Mr.Awesome & I were surprised this year with gifts for Bean at each of our Christmas parties. It was so thoughtful and such joy for us to see all the adorable things our family got Bean.

Picture frame from Mr.Awesome's Dad

(with latest u/s in it)

Music box from Mr.Awesome's (step) Grandparents

(this is Bean's first music box)

Book and toys from my parents

Not pictured: Diapers and blankets

Side Note: Expect a Bean's Bounty overload this week, as well as a preview of my Maternity pics (when I get them) and a 36 week update (my appt. is tomorrow). I'm also currently working on my Bellflower book review and giveaway!

Good/Bad - take two

2011-12-28T14:42:00.000-08:00

I am so busy this week, I apologize for no new posts.

Quick update:

Good: My Christmases were great! It was so nice to see all of my family and family-in-law and Bean got some pretty sweet gifts. I'll be doing a Bean's bounty of Bean's Christmas gifts before the week is done.

Bad: Someone shared a cold with me. I've had a sore throat, runny nose, and sinus headache all week. Having a cold on top of pregnancy woes (sore back, acid reflux, etc) is just bad news.

Good: Mr.Awesome & I had our maternity shoot today and I'm so excited to see the pictures. Our friend Amie does such a fabulous job and is such a good sport. The only little snag was the fact that Oswald J. Button wanted to be in every single shot. Apparently he thought he was the star of the show.

Good: We got our Bellflower book in the mail today. It turned out so much better than we ever anticipated and due to the excellent timing we took a few maternity pictures with it.

Good: Mr.Awesome decided to spend his car money (he sold his car) on flooring for our main floor
(instead of a gun). I cannot wait to see the finished product. Our house is going to be beautiful.

Good/Bad: Mr.Awesome is home this week so I am accomplishing next to nothing. Thanks for your patience, I promise to do a better job of blogging in the future.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T11:07:00.000-08:00

I will be MIA this weekend due to Christmastime festivities but I wanted to get on quick today and wish y'all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! (or whatever holiday you may be celebrating)

Mr.Awesome and I started off our Christmas weekend by ringing the bell for the Salvation Army.

*Also small Bean update: I'm officially 35 weeks and Bean decided to celebrate by giving mommy some false labor. My OB said she wouldn't be surprised if Bean came sooner rather than later. EEk. We can't wait to meet you Bean.

Wordless Wednesday - 12/21 {34 weeks + small update}

2011-12-21T06:35:00.000-08:00

34 week belly + my first load of Bean's laundry

Quick update: On Friday Mr.Awesome & I had our 34 week Bean appt. and an appt. with our LC. The LC was amazing and I'm feeling so much better about breast feeding. We can contact her day and night and that's insanely reassuring.
Our Bean appt. went great. I am up to 152.6 lbs (32lbs total) and I'm measuring about a week ahead (at 35 weeks). Bean is doing great, HB was 162. My next appt. (Dec 30) I start getting checked for progress and I also start going in once a week. EEk

Loo & Roni

2011-12-19T06:14:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite time of year. I love Christmas cookies. I love looking at Christmas lights. And I love Christmas songs. This year has been pretty special for me since I was able to make it to not only Loo's Christmas program but Roni's. And there is nothing more precious then small children singing.

Loo singing (in the white)

She is so sweet.

Loo with my parents & me

Lexi & family

Roni (top center)

Roni singing. So so sweet.

My nanny family and me <3

ETA: I'm a Christmas program junky. Mr.Awesome and I went to our church's program as well.

To-Do list update

2011-12-18T04:30:00.000-08:00

So my to-do list was some-what a success. I didn't necessarily complete all the tasks I had wanted to on a certain day, but for the most part I completed them.

Monday:
Wrapped *some presents
did our laundry
vacuumed up pine needles

Tuesday:
wrapped more presents (still not done)
washed Bean's bedding/blankets
vacuumed up pine needles
washed *some dishes
worked at the Book store

Wednesday: Super productive day, probably because I didn't have power
wrapped more presents (still not done)
Folded laundry/washed another load
washed all dishes
dusted
vacuumed floor/up pine needles
blogged
cleaned oven top

Thursday:
wrapped more presents (I'm finished!)
addressed Christmas cards
Cooked a roast (parents over for dinner)
vacuumed up pine needles
dishes
called about Bean's baptism

Friday:
finished Bean's laundry - completed
packed Bean's hospital bag

Hospital Bag {part 1 - Bean}

2011-12-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

So one of my goals this week was to pack my hospital bag. Well that just didn't happen because I got distracted packing Bean's. Packing up Bean's baby bag was probably one of my favorite activities I've done my entire pregnancy. So fun in fact I think I over packed.

Bean's baby (hospital) bag:

one girl take home outfit - newborn size
one boy take home outfit - newborn size
one unisex take home outfit - 0-3 size
one sleep sack
3-4 newborn onsies
3 pairs of baby mits
4 pairs of socks
4 hats
2 flannel blankets
travel baby wipes
travel baby lotion
changing mat

What do you think?
Did I miss anything?
Should I bring my own diapers?

sneak peek at Bean's take home outfits

baby bag

Just so you know

2011-12-15T03:00:00.000-08:00

This is pretty random but covers a lot of info when it comes to Bean.

Friends and Family:
Mr.Awesome and I have decided that we don't want anyone but us (or our professional photographer Amie) posting pictures of Bean on Facebook (at this time). Mr.Awesome was actually dead set on me not having a FB all together (he doesn't have one) but I talked him out of it since it's my ~~only~~ easiest line of communication for some of you.
If you would like a picture of you with Bean we will be happy to tag you in one (that way we can set the privacy settings). Also please don't announce Bean's birth until we have had a chance to first. It's important to us that we notify close family and friends personally.

Followers/BG friends/Tweeps:
We have decided that we will be only be posting photos with water marks/our blog name on them. Mr.Awesome is really not comfortable with Bean (pictures) being online and I support him (to a point). We also won't be reveling Bean's real name, Bean will remain Bean on here. You can also not expect to see taboo topic post such as our birth story, vaccinations, etc. There are too many ~~close minded~~ opinionated people in the World.

With that being said I can't wait to share Bean's life with all of you. I hope you stick with us through this amazing journey.

If you have questions feel free to email me.

O' Christmas ornament

2011-12-14T09:36:00.000-08:00

As I said the other day in my O' Christmas Tree post, this year we didn't add a lot of decorations to our tree. I have to say I'm happy for that decision since I've been chasing the littles and Z out of our tree all week. The bottom branches are almost completely bare but the animals are enjoying themselves so that's okay.

Anyways, as promised here are a few pictures of our "special" ornaments.

I got this one for Mr.Awesome last year.

This one we got from my parents, it's a St. Jude ornament.

St. Jude is one of the organizations we love to donate to so this was a very thoughtful gift.

We got this one the year (after) we were married.

I can't wait to get a new one with Bean's name added to it!

Furry Faces {iheartfaces}

2011-12-13T08:57:00.000-08:00

I haven't participated in one of these for awhile but this one (as my readers know) is practically made for me. I have literally thousands of pictures of my pets, they are after all my babies. So choosing the picture to post was a challenge. I finally decided on this picture of our dog Zoe. This is what we call her "pout face", notice lower lip sticking out. She uses it to get out of trouble on a daily basis it seems.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-13T03:00:00.000-08:00

We finally (late I know) ordered our Tiny Prints Christmas card and we LOVE it! It was soooo hard for us to pick a card since there were so many adorable ones but I think we made the right choice. What do you think?

Weekly To-Do {Dec 12}

2011-12-12T03:00:00.001-08:00

So after a mere week of being a SAHM, I'm coming to find out I lack major motivation when it comes to getting things done. For one thing, I know I can just do it tomorrow since I don't have to work. And on top of that between constant backaches and frequent BH contractions I'm down-right tired. So I'm hoping if I write weekly to-do list on my blog I'll have to complete it. If it works this may become a weekly meme, at least until after Bean is born.

Monday:
Laundry day - wash ours + Bean's-I haven't washed a single thisng of Bean's.
wrap Christmas presents & remaining Dec. birthday presents

Tuesday:
Dust - get rid of gasp cobwebs
pack hospital bag
Work @ Bookstore

Wednesday:
Cook roast- dinner with my parents
Take Zoe to the woods with Mr.Awesome - she is lacking in some serious outside play
wash kitchen floor- clean oven top

Thursday:
Call about baptizing Bean
Laundry day - wash sheets and kitchen towels
Clean bathroom - ew

Friday-Sunday:
No extra chores

Daily Goals:
Stay on top of washing dishes
vacuum up pine needles
blog - comment on *at least 5 blogs daily

And on a completely unrelated note: HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of the most amazing guys I know... my little brother, Duckie! I love you and can't believe you are already 24!

me, mom, and Duckie

O' Christmas Tree

2011-12-11T02:30:00.000-08:00

After my rough start the other day, the amazing Mr.Awesome decided to cheer me up by buying us a Christmas tree.

our tree before we decorated

(notice we finally took our wood stove out)

Izzie approves of the taste.

Zoe with her Dad, this was her first tree.

(we skipped last year since she was just a few months old)

Zoe, Oswald J. Button, and me (and my big ol' belly).

Zoe's first Christmas tree.

All decorated. Not too many ornaments this year since I'm afraid of Zoe knocking the tree down. The few we have up are very special to us (look for them in a future post).

BTW if you didn't catch on, buying me a tree did in fact cheer me up. Thanks Mr.Awesome!

32 week photo shoot

2011-12-10T03:00:00.000-08:00

My lovely friend Amie came over to visit the other day (because I'm seriously lacking adult time) and snapped my 32 week belly shots. I can't believe how big I've gotten!

And just so you can see how much my belly has grown...

New Name

2011-12-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my new (old) blog: Adventures of an Infertile Mommy

I know, I know the new name isn't a huge stretch from my original blog name (Adventures of an Infertile Nanny) but that's one of the main reasons I liked it. I started out this blog to help me cope with infertility and although I am pregnant, infertility is still a huge part of my life. "Surviving" IF has changed me in so many ways and I still have a lot of left over feelings and thoughts about the subject.

Things you can still look forward to changing:

Obviously the design. I am currently working on getting a new header and button. For the time being please keep my original button on your pages. The new design will hopefully be up in the next week (or so). While I wait for it, this semi-boring template will have to do.
Template design. I feel if I'm going with a new name and a new look, I should shake up just about everything.

What won't change:

My email. For now I will be leaving my email as is, so you can still contact me at infertilenanny (at) gmail (dot) com.
My URL (I think that's what it's called). You can still locate my blog by typing in infertilenanny (dot) blogspot (dot) com.
My topics. My blog has always been pretty random so you can expect the same thing with the new(ish) one. I will warn you that after Bean is born this blog will *most likely be centered more around him/her.

So not a huge change but what do you think? Any suggestions for the design? Or better yet, anyone really talented want to design it for me? (just kidding, sorta)

rough start

2011-12-08T14:09:00.000-08:00

This morning started out great. I woke up at 7 (which is pretty late for me) and started getting ready for the day because today is a great day...it's Christmas tree day. Sadly, while I was in the shower Zoe did this...

Which quickly made my morning suck. Luckily I had one very old pair of contacts (in my contact case-not new) so I was able to throw those in while we came up with a solution. After spending an hour looking at glasses at Shopko and realize how expensive they are we decided to look into just ordering something online.
That's when we ran into this nice little situation...
With our insurance we get an exam every two years. My last exam was in 2010 so I'll get a new one in Jan. Unfortunately, my prescription expired after one year so I can't order contacts or glasses online or in a store until I get a new exam/prescription. Being that I'm 8 months pregnant, an exam (out of pocket) would be pointless. I called back our eye exam clinic and they are being kind enough to give me a trial pair to get me through the holidays. I was also told that Zenni Optical (online) doesn't require you to verify your prescription so I think I'll order a cheap pair of glasses from there. Has anyone ever use them? Or do you have a better solution?

Oh and we did end up getting a Christmas tree! Look forward to those pictures this weekend!
Also don't forget my blog is getting a name change tomorrow!!

Pay it Forward {Elf on the Shelf}

2011-12-07T04:30:00.000-08:00

I LOVE the Elf on the Shelf tradition.

Source: parenting.com via Jacy on Pinterest

For those of you who have never heard of it, it's pretty simple. Every December an Elf comes to stay with you & your family so that he can report back to Santa each night (on if your children have been naughty or nice). The fun of the Elf on the Shelf tradition is that each and every morning your children have to find the elf in his new location.

So to sum it up: cutest tradition ever!

I cannot wait until Bean is old enough to enjoy this tradition. Since that won't be until next year (okay two years from now) I've been gathering ideas. In doing so I stumbled across some adorable blog posts. Go check them out and start your own tradition now.

Dream Home DIY :Ideas on where to put your elf.

Ashley Quite Frankly :A blog post about a naughty elf.

Home Stories A to Z :A blog post on this families take on the tradition. Plus ideas where to put your elf.

Blossom Bunkhouse: 101 ideas on where to put your elf.

Rae of Light Photography: Elfie Rojo's Mischief, more ideas.

**Don't forget to check back December 9 for my new (blog) name revealing**

Hello Winter!

2011-12-06T05:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to December everyone!

Source: weheartit.com via Katy on Pinterest

How quickly is this year going? Like super fast right! It's blowing my mind that I'm 8 weeks away from my EDD. I cannot wait to meet my little Bean and I'm sure all of you feel the same way. Right? Anyways since I love lists (who doesn't?), so here is a list of some things y'all can look forward to this month.

An Elf on the Shelf Pay it Forward post.
Mommy product reviews.
Bean's BIG baby shower bounty - finally I know.
More Belly pics courtesy of Amie.
My 34 week pregnancy update.
A picture of our finished nursery-almost done I swear.
Bean's imaginary Christmas wish list.
Christmas party pictures.
My Bellflower book review & giveaway - I'm ordering my book this week!
Pin it Tuesday posts - Christmas themed.
Pictures of our Christmas tree.
Babies, Weddings, Birthdays, and more.
More lists - I'll leave the contents a surprise.

And

Starting December 9 my blog's new name reveal. That's right, this blog will be renamed on Friday. Check back!

32 weeks

2011-12-05T12:34:00.000-08:00

Current weight: 149.7 lbs.( according to 31 week appt.)
Total pregnancy weight gain: 29.7 lbs
Measuring: right on track
(Bean's HB was 140 & estimated weight was 4 lbs 7 oz)

Current pregnancy symptoms:

Still fighting bad acid reflux. If I miss my morning Zantac pill my day is just hell.
Sore back. Sleeping is becoming an issue due to this.
Still getting light headed from my low blood pressure and getting a lot of "charlie horses" these days.
Lots and lots of Bean kicks and lots of hiccups. Yay keep on learning to breath/swallow Bean.
Low iron :/ My iron supplements are super time messing with my system.
Painful and somewhat frequent BH contractions. I hope this means my body is getting ready for Bean.

32 week Belly shot: (I'm getting my good ones taken this week with my good buddy Amie)

still no stretchies

Look how wide I have gotten recently. Eeek

What I'm looking forward to: our next appt, finishing up our room/Bean's nursery, birthing class and meeting with our hospitals LC, meeting my beautiful Bean (only 8 weeks until my EDD)

*I'm officially a SAHM now so hopefully I'll do a better job of blogging. Thanks for hanging in there everyone!

the beauty of pregnancy

2011-12-02T16:11:00.000-08:00

Anyone who reads this blog, knows me in real life, or is a complete stranger who happens to ask how my pregnancy is going knows that I am not a fan of pregnancy. I am not one of those people who are able to relax and enjoy this amazing miracle. I'm constantly worried about my baby and if I could I would skip the entire process and just jump to the end where I get to hold my healthy little Bean in my arms. And on top of all that worry this pregnancy has been less than ideal (morning sickness, low blood pressure, low lying placenta, etc etc). With all of that said there are moments of pregnancy that I'm really going to miss.

1. Baby kicks & hiccups: Although they are sometimes painful, I love feeling my little Bean move. It's a beautiful reminder that Bean is growing and is happy.

2. Get-out-of-housework card: Mr.Awesome is so sweet and doting these days I love it. I am no longer allowed to carry heavy laundry baskets, move furniture (which I do a surprising amount), or walk up and down the stairs too many times. Not to mention I can't go near the cat boxes. I'm very upset about all of this if you can't tell. *wink

3. Knowing smiles: A big ol' baby bump is the best ice breaker ever. Mr.Awesome & I are constantly having random strangers smile at us, hold open doors, give up their place in line, and talk to us. People love the pregnant lady, I'm considering wearing a prosthetic belly after Bean is born.

4. Doting relatives: My dad is making me meals. My mom is taking me shopping. My little brother is constantly checking on me. And my loving Mr.Awesome is constantly going above and beyond his husband duties and doing tasks like putting lotion my belly & blow drying my hair.

5. I'll have seconds please: As someone who wasn't much of an "eater" before I'm really enjoying food these days. REALLY enjoying food. For the first time in my life I'm eating seconds and some times thirds. Don't worry I'm still right on target with my weight.

6. Nesting: I've always been a little bit of a spaz when it comes to organizing and cleaning, okay I'm down right OCD but now I'm way more motivated at cleaning places I never was before. Like closets and dressers. Plus I feel the need to go through everything and get rid of "stuff we don't use". Luckily I'm married to a very patient man who will move boxes and bags full of giveaways for me.

30 Days of Thanks.

2011-11-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

This month I participated in the 30 Days of Thanks challenge on my facebook (and somewhat on my twitter). This was a great challenge since this month has been a tough one for me and it's nice to remember the good in ones life. Here's what I was thankful for this month, most of it is self explanatory.

Day 1: I'm thankful that I work at a job that allows me to take naps. Bean is growing or something because I. Am. Exhausted.

Day 2: I'm thankful for my smart friend WeeMason'sMom who constantly helps me with bloggy things. Seriously I am very much lacking in the computer skills department.

Day 3: I'm so SO so thankful that I'm finally in the third trimester. grow Bean grow!

Day 4: I am thankful that I passed my GD test today! What a relief!

Day 5: I'm thankful that my husband is painting Bean's nursery! I can't wait to decorate it :) Pictures to come.

Day 6: I'm very thankful for my little home and my husband who keeps it up to date. Nothing feels as good as coming home to my cozy little house

Day 7: I'm thankful for Dave Ramsey! His TMMO has changed our lives.

Day 8: I'm thankful for baby kicks. Even when they are painful they reassure and remind me that my Bean is happy & healthy.

Day 9: I'm very thankful for all the support we received from friends & family while struggling with infertility and now pregnancy. I ♥ you all very much!

Day 10: I am so thankful that my car broke down in my driveway and not when I was driving 65 mph down the freeway. Bean & I could have been seriously hurt. We are very blessed.

Day 11: I'm super thankful my husband is so handy. He saves us so much money by doing home repairs and fixing our vehicles!

Day 12: I'm thankful that I live so close to my little brother & niece. It's so nice that we can do impromptu meals together. I wish all my siblings lived so close.

Day 13: I'm thankful that my lovie finished painting our baby's nursery! I can wait until I can set it up!

Day 14: I'm thankful I still have 3 weeks left with my nanny babes. I'm so not ready to leave them :/

Day 15: I am thankful for the library and the MORE library system. Visiting the library is one of my favorite activities! Fun fact: I can rent ebooks on my kindle from the MORE library system.

Day 16: I am thankful for my furrbabies. Coming home to 3 cats & a dog that adore you in priceless and sometimes the best part of my day :)

Day 17: I'm thankful for good friends who let me vent & and an amazing husband who always let's me cry on his shoulder.

Day 18: I'm thankful for kitty purrs. Nothing says I love you like a happy purring cat or three.

Day 19: I'm thankful that all my friends and family who braved the crazy weather to celebrate my baby shower made it home safe. Look for a Bean's bounty with all my gifts in the near future.

Day 20: I'm so thankful for all the amazing gifts I got yesterday. We are feeling very blessed. Thank you everyone!

Day 21: I'm thankful for the snow (as long as I'm warm & toasty in my home). It makes the world look so peaceful.

Day 22: today I'm thankful for thank you cards. They make you feel so appreciated.

Day 23: I am thankful that my older nanny kids are home today! This will be my last full day with them. Very bitter sweet.

Day 24: Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I'm so thankful for all God has given me. I'm very blessed.

Day 25: I'm thankful for all the great news I got at our baby appt. Bean keep growing, we love you.

Day 26: I'm thankful that I got to spend time with my family. Also thankful I didn't botch the turkey.

Day 27: I'm thankful for lazy Sunday mornings with my husband. It's just what the dr ordered!

Day 28: I am thankful that Zoe figured out how to use the stairs. I missed my nighttime snuggle buddy! She was terrified to go up to our new bedroom & nursery for awhile.

Day 29: I'm thankful for all the support I'm getting this (very tough) week. Leaving my nanny kids is one of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

Day 30: today I'm thankful for baby hiccups. Keep practicing breathing/swallowing little one.

I hope all of you had a wonderful November filled with many things to be thankful for!

sigh

2011-11-29T17:14:00.001-08:00

This has to be one of the hardest weeks of my life. It's my last week at my nanny job and I'm a mess. I know that once I have Bean at home I'll be okay with my decision to leave my nanny babes but until then I'm just lost. I remember rocking both my nanny girls to sleep. And little baby Roni coming up to me with her boppy, doing the sign for milk. I can't imagine not talking to their parents all the time or giving their dog some snuggles. I am going to miss play dates with neighbors and talking to all the preschool moms. It's such a life change and I just feel numb about it all. sigh.

Hopefully after this week this blog won't be so sad but until then please bare with me.

Christmas (4 & 1)

me with the little ladies

Roni

Pooh reading to Pieces (4 & 2)

Mr.Awesome playing with Pooh

Pieces

Pooh & baby Oz

A great day.

2011-11-27T07:20:00.001-08:00

Some days are just filled with great news. That's how our Friday went.

Mr.Awesome and I woke up early and did a little shopping, found some good deals but nothing note worthy. We grabbed a bite to eat then went home and relaxed before our appts.

Our first appt. was an appt. with a family practitioner to establish care for us and Bean. First off we LOVE him. He is going to be Bean's dr and ours so for now on we will call him Dr. P. He was so easy going and we instantly felt at ease with him. Since we were there Mr.Awesome got a long over due tetanus shot too.

Then we went to get our ultrasound. This was the "big ultrasound" to find out if our placenta moved or not. First off Bean is very happy and healthy. HB was 140 and Bean is measuring a few weeks ahead. The estimated weight is already 4 lbs 7 oz (I'm 31 weeks along), Dr.G thinks Bean will be 8 1/2 lbs minimum at birth. We also found out that Bean's head is way down, it was very hard to get a good picture of Bean's face. But the best news of all, my placenta has raised! Both Mr.Awesome & I are thrilled and we are so happy that we are able to try a natural birth (with or without meds).

After the ultrasound we went to talk to Dr.G. I weighed in at 149 (up 29 lbs total) which is right where I should be. We talked about our ultrasound results, Bean's new doctor, and a little about what to expect at future appts.

Overall it was a great day with great news and we are so thrilled. In celebration we finished moving our room and Bean's upstairs. Which means we are just about finished with our bedroom/nursery remod project. I will post pictures when I can!

Bitter Sweet

2011-11-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was my last full day with my school-agers (Pieces and Pooh), my official last day is Dec 1 but they didn't have school today. When I started nannying for my "family" six years ago I had no idea how much I would grow to love not only the kids but the parents to. I can't wait to be a SAHM and take care of Bean but today I'm just sad to say goodbye to a family that I love. I can't imagine not seeing these kids everyday or chatting with their parents.

The first year I started, Pooh & Pieces (age 1 & 3)

then came Roni

and on Wed. (ages 4, 7, & 9)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

Source: etsy.com via Amanda on Pinterest

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

There is so much in my life that I am thankful for. I am thankful for: Mr.Awesome: Our healthy happy baby Bean: Zoe & the littles: good friends: a loving family: two jobs I love: my home: great books: hot baths: food in my frig: and I'm thankful for all of you who have given me support and love through my journey of infertility.

What are you thankful for?

wordless Wednesday - 11/23 - thankful

2011-11-22T17:19:00.001-08:00

Who I'm thankful for (in pictures): my best friend. my lover. my husband.
(and these pictures are how I know he's going to be the best Dad)

Plus he's a great nap buddy:

Baby shower

2011-11-20T08:47:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had my baby shower and I couldn't be more pleased. I will be doing a huge Bean's bounty post in the very near future with pictures of everything I got because I got some seriously amazing gifts. I'm feeling very blessed and very prepared for my little Bean. Thank you family & friends who could make it!

I have so many pictures but these are a few of my favorites:

My friend E and I showing off our bumps :)

Roni helping me show off my cake.

Loo

My amazing gifts. Thanks everyone!

All the kids playing with balloons.

Pieces saying goodbye to Bean - love this picture!

My sister with my nephew and my friend Brookers LO.

(There was no snow when my shower started.)

Me opening gifts.

(I will do a Bean's bounty with more gift pics)

My cousin, cousin-in-law, their LO and I

who's a bad blogger?

2011-11-15T15:52:00.001-08:00

This girl is. I have so much going on this week I barely make it home before I pass out. I'm actually typing this as I eat because I know after dinner I'm done for the night. Please bare with me...I'm big and pregnant and sleepy.

To tide you over until the weekend (when I'll be able to really blog), here is me at 30 weeks pregnant!!

Roni & I

30 weeks

Things to do, things to do

2011-11-12T05:30:00.000-08:00

I am officially 29 weeks pregnant! Which means Mr.Awesome & I have a mere 11 weeks left to complete our before Bean projects and tasks. Although we have accomplished a lot I just feel like time is not on our side and am getting discouraged these days.

Someone give me some encouragement, please!

To do list:
1. Finish Bean's nursery/our room. We need to do one more layer of paint and clean the floors. Then we can officially move in. Since Mr.Awesome works long full-time hours and it's hunting season I'm hoping we get this accomplished before Dec. Our first goal was to have it done by my baby shower but that's next week and a wee bit unrealistic.

2. Find a pediatrician or family practitioner for Bean. We have an appointment to meet with a family practitioner (since we both need one for ourselves as well) and we have our eye on a pediatrician if that doesn't work out so this one is *almost completed.

3. Get insurance for Bean, life insurance for me, and a will done. We are pre-registered for Bean's health insurance so that is completed but the other two we have yet to even look into.

4. Pad our savings. We would like to have *at least $1500 in our savings. Our original goal was to have this completed by the time I went on maternity leave (Dec 1) but I'm not sure if that's possible. Unless we get money for Thanksgiving...do people do that? *fingers crossed*.

5. Wash and organize Bean's clothes and things. This kind of goes along with number one. I'm just so ready to nest but I can't until the nursery is complete.

6. Install dishwasher. Yes, the dishwasher is still sitting in the garage. I would love to have it installed before Bean gets here but we can make due if it isn't.

7. Take all the pets to the vet and update their shots. Completed!!

8. Finish up baby books, pick out baby announcements, set up Baptism. I'm hoping I will get to these when I start early maternity leave in Dec.

So what do you think? Can we get it all done? Did we miss anything?

Murphys {TMMO update}

2011-11-11T10:14:00.001-08:00

These last two months have been pack full of murphys (unexpected expenses), the difference is now we are prepared for them.

(Recap)
In February of this year we decided to take a break from TTC to get our debt under control. Our very good friend Mason's Mom suggested we look at doing Dave Ramsey's TMMO and to say it changed our lives is an understatement.

When we started in February (2011) we had $22,156 in debt, not including our mortgage and were making $1172 in minimum payments a month. Makes you ill doesn't it? (Our debt included car payments, student loans, credit cards, and medical bills.) We spent February working on baby step one: get $1000 in an emergency fund & then in March we started out baby step two: debt snowball. As of this month we are down to $13,053 in debt -paid off $9103- and our monthly payments are only $331!

We are thrilled with the progress but these last two months have been a trial. First all of our appliances broke and/or needed to be replaced (alright only two of them but still), then we had to replace parts on Mr.Awesome's car, and now my car broke down (broken ball joint). Needless to say we are putting our snowball on hold to replenish our now depleted emergency fund. It's frustrating to have so much progress and then have to take a step back but clearly the emergency fund has a purpose since it's saved our butts twice.

I am just so proud of how much we have accomplished and I wish I could just give Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover book to each and every one of my followers, friends and family because it seriously has changed our lives.

I'm not gonna lie 'Ramsey' is on our name list for Bean.

If you are doing your own TMMO link me to your blog or let me know how much progress you have made, success stories are so inspirational!

Tis' the season {tinyprints review}

2011-11-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

It's about that time of year when Mr.Awesome & I sit down and pick out our Christmas card and the picture(s) we want to use for it. In the past we have had a picture holding all three cats (not an easy task) and most recently a picture of us with our Zoe when she was a wee little pup. Although each and every Christmas card we pick out is special to us this years is especially important since after almost 4 years of infertility we are pregnant. I cannot wait to show off my BIG pregnant belly as well as my adorable animals and even a picture of Bean (our next U/S in Nov 25). We look forward to sharing our picture cards with family & friends each year, especially those who live out of state that we don't get to see often. And we love getting them as well.

This year we have decided to use tinyprints for our card. It was an easy decision for us since there quality & style is unbeatable. Although we haven't used tinyprints before ourselves, we have received many birthday and holiday tinyprints cards from others and love them. And after playing around on their website I've found a few cards that meet our requirements.

How cute would this one be if we had a snowy outside maternity picture?

find this card here

If we decide to use just the pets pictures, something like this would be adorable!

find this card here

I love that this one can double as a Christmas ornament.

find this card here

If we wanted to include pictures of our entire family (a picture of the cats, Zoe, U/S picture, and us) this would be perfect!

find this card here

What cards or pictures are you using this year? To check out more cards at tinyprints you can click here. The filters on the left hand side make it especially easy to find a card that will meet your needs.

Disclaimer: I received 50 cards from tiny prints for writing this post. The opinions are my own. If you are interested in blogging about tinyprints you can go here.

Pin it Tuesday - 11/8 {animals}

2011-11-08T04:30:00.000-08:00

Ready for an extra dose of cuteness? I introduce you to my favorite pins from my animal board.

Source: google.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: isuwannee.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: pixdaus.com via Molly on Pinterest

Too freakin' cute right?

Alien

2011-11-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

I swear there is an alien inside me these days. Bean is either a big baby or I am too small because I don't think Bean has enough room. All day long I can feel poor little Bean pushing out on my sides or moving his/her rump up against my side. You can now physically see Bean's little baby parts pushing out. It was adorable but now it's just creeping Mr.Awesome and me out, lol.

Anyone else have alien babies?

28 Week + Appt. & GD test

2011-11-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Hello third trimester! Mr.Awesome & I are so thrilled to reach this point. In a mere 12 weeks we will be meeting our Bean <3

Our 28 week appointment was a little different from our other appts. since I had my GD test as well. We arrived at 11:30 so I could drink the orange sugar drink. I think I may be a weirdo because it was kind of yummy and it only took me like a min. to finish it. Then we had to ~~run to the~~ ride the elevator to the third floor for our appt. I weighed in at 145 which means I'm right on track with only gaining a lb a week. My blood pressure was still on the lower side but not concerning and I measured 27.8 which is right on track with me being 28 weeks. We got to listen to our little Bean's HB too and it was 145 which is the lowest it's been (still in a safe range). Dr.G thought Bean may have been in a sugar coma, haha. After our appt. we still had about 25 min to kill so we went and pre-registered for Bean's birth. This pregnancy is getting real awful fast. After we registered I went and got my blood drawn and was told results would be in Monday but they wouldn't call unless the results were positive for GD. Yeah, I got a call a few hours later. I thought for sure I failed the test hardcore but they had called to let me know I passed but my iron was very low. So now I'm adding iron supplements to my collection of pills.

Current weight: 145 lbs. (3 lbs. more from my last appt. at 24 weeks)
Total pregnancy weight gain: 25 lbs
Measuring: right on track

Current pregnancy symptoms:

Bad acid reflux. Zantac and tums seem to keep it under control. I've started taking Zantac twice a day.
Sore back. The extra 25 lbs are really taking a toll on my body.
Still getting light headed from my low blood pressure.
Lots and lots of Bean kicks. Mr.Awesome can feel them at anytime.
Low iron :/
I've gotten some BH off and on for the last few weeks. Pretty much anytime I have to pee and/or eat.

28 week Belly shot: to come

What I'm looking forward to: our next appt. & U/S Nov 25 to see if our placenta has raised, my baby shower, finishing up our room/Bean's nursery, birthing class and meeting with our hospitals LC

A Day in the Life of...

2011-11-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

Zoe Autumn.
(also known as Z, Zo, Zeeber, Doodle, and the Z.O.E.)

Zoe Autumn

Zoe has it so good. She is the single puppy in a 4 pet home. We also have 3 cats (Owen Daniel, Isobel Mae, &Oswald Joeseph) or littles as we call them. And to say she is spoiled and well loved is an understatement.

Zoe starts her day at 6:30 a.m. when Mom (me) wakes up to go to the bathroom (yay for pregnancy). I do my thing then I go and let Zoe out for a tinkle while I feed the littles. When she is done outside she gets fed in her crate. Because of bad behavior *cough cough eating-toilet-paper-rolls cough* I lock her in her crate while I take a shower.

Zoe caught in the act. Notice pouty lip to get out of trouble.

After my shower she follows me around the house while I get ready. At 7:40 I have to leave for work so Zoe either goes in her crate (locked) or she goes in her outside pen, depending on weather. At 8:30-9ish Dad (Mr.Awesome) gets home from work. He is the fun parent. He either takes Zoe for a walk, out to the woods or lake(her favorite), or plays catch with her outside.

Zoe at the lake.

Then She hangs out on the couch with Dad while he unwinds and gets ready to go to sleep. At 12:00-1:00ish Dad goes to bed and Zoe goes in her crate with toys and treats. I get home between 4:30-6 and I promptly let Zoe out to go potty. Then depending on weather (and how Mom feels these days) we either play catch outside or play inside. After we play, we relax together on the couch. Zoe is a great napper.

Zoe taking a snooze with her best friend Oswald J. Button.

Also my baby bump :D

At 7 I feed her and the littles dinner. Then I open up the bedroom door and she goes and snuggles her Dad until I wake him up at 8. At 8 all of us (yes all three cats, Zoe, and me) go in and visit with Dad. We usually end up hanging out in bed until Dad has to get ready for work (around 9). At 9:30 Dad has to go to work and we walk him to the door. Zoe takes her night time tinkle and then we go to bed. Yes, Zoe sleeps in bed with me. She even has her own pillow.

"Mom, stop taking pictures" -Zoe

A tough life huh?

I wrote this post for mama Kat's writing workshop.

To see more about Zoe or the littles (our cats) click on the pet link at the bottom of my blog page.

Also check out Zoe's buddy Joe over at Adventures of Wee Mason Man.

Upstairs Remod - Step 2

2011-11-03T04:30:00.000-07:00

Woohoo! We have completed step 2 - texturize walls (I swear this is a word). I am so thrilled with how this turned out and I can't wait to move on to step 3 - painting. I think we are for sure going to make our goal of getting Bean's room done by our baby shower (November 19).

Step 2 - Texturize walls

Ta-da! I'm so proud of Mr.Awesome.

Looking into Bean's room from the stairs

Looking at Bean's room from our room

Oh, and Oswald J. Button.

Our dormer -reading room for Bean

Our room

And what we did to our floors, oops.

Clean-up ideas anyone?

Saving $$$

2011-11-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Since I have less than a month until my last day at my nanny job, Mr.Awesome & I are looking for ways to cut down on our monthly costs. We would like to have as much extra money as we can to throw into savings and to buy any last min baby things we might need.

A few ways we have come up with to save money are...

1. By me cooking our meals. I love to bake and cook from scratch. I can burn a can of spaghetti o's or botch a frozen pizza but I can successfully cook Thanksgiving dinner for my entire family. Not only am I good at making food from scratch but I love doing it. And making meals at home is way cheaper than eating out. We are going to try to limit our eating out to $25/week. That may seem high but eating out is our only form of entertainment. Right now I am just lacking the time/energy to cook but when I'm staying at home I'll have time to start cooking again. Even if it's just a roast or casserole.

2. By not paying for cable. We currently have only Netflix. We are getting instant stream (which is meh at best) and unlimited DVDs (1 at a time) for $15.98/month. Pretty sweet deal except for the fact that we aren't really using the instant stream and we only get through 4 movies max a month. So we have decided to either a. drop the instant stream and keep unlimited DVDs ($7.99/month) or b. drop the instant stream and go to 2 DVDs a month ($4.99/month). In addition to that we are using our next $5.00 amazon swag bucks card to buy this TV antenna. Between that, our Netflix movies, and our Internet (which we can watch TV shows/movies on) I think we will be set.

3. By switching phone services. We currently both have iPhones through AT&T and we are paying $180+ a month. That is the minimum we are able to pay. And on top of our huge bill we are super unhappy with our AT&T service. I have at least one phone call dropped each day and Mr.Awesome isn't able to get onto the Internet half the time. We are just frustrated and ready to move on to something else. We are seriously considering switching to straighttalk, which is a prepaid phone service. It will be $45/month per phone for unlimited everything, which will save us about $100/month. The phones are not the "coolest" phones out there but at this point in our life, cool isn't everything. Does anyone use straighttalk?

What ways do you save money? Do you have any suggestions to help us cut more costs?

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T04:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from me & cowgirl Roni!

Roni & I

2011-10-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've posted any new pics with my nanny babe, Roni. She is currently 4 going on 14 and hilarious. She is so smart and constantly making me laugh.

Her latest kidisms:
Roni: Is your baby kicking?
Me: Not right now, maybe it's sleeping?
R: How can your baby sleep without a pillow?
M: It doesn't need a pillow since it's snug as a bug in my belly.
R: *eye roll* No one can sleep without a pillow.

Happy Halloween from Roni & I.

Learning about fruits vs veggies.

Roni doing art. And yes, this is her "smile".

Playing trains.

Not ammused with me taking pictures.

ETA: I've been told I don't look very pregnant in my Happy Halloween picture, even though I'm 27 weeks pregnant. Here is a picture of me standing taken the same day.

27 weeks

Upstairs remod - step 1

2011-10-29T15:57:00.000-07:00

We have officially started our upstairs remodeling project! Our upstairs (attic) will become our room and Bean's room for the first 1-2 years of Bean's life. It was insulated and had dry wall (or the equivalent) but it's wasn't completely finished.

Cost of the remodeling project: $150-$200 (for mudding/putty, tape, paper-for floor & windows, paint, paint sprayer thingy)

Steps:
1. mud/putty & tape
2. texturize walls (I'm pretty sure this has a technical term of some sorts)
3. paint walls
4. move in furniture & decorate (my Dad will also be painting birch trees in the nursery)

Step 1 (and step 0.1 - clean out attic):

Before (cleanup):

Mudding/Putty & Taping:

Mr.Awesome mudding.

I'm only allowed to do nail holes since I'm not very good at this.

See my awesome nail holes?!?

taping

Porn for women

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Look what I found on Pinterest...

Source: rookiemoms.com via Molly on Pinterest

Your welcome. He's yummy right?

Also to add to the randomness of this post, I just heard this song today and it's dumb but hilarious and I like it! It could be the pregnancy hormones.

Also please keep voting for me! You can vote every day. I very much appreciate it.

Bean's Bounty - 10/26

2011-10-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have gotten so many beautiful and amazing things for Bean lately and I'm well overdue to share them.

Mr.Awesome's little brother & his wife live in London and were planning on visiting in November (the same week as my shower) but something came up and they aren't able to travel. They are super time missed but we understand. Anyways they sent us the cutest baby shower gift! It completely made my week.

Very few people know this but Peter Rabbit stuff is rated right up there next to owls in my book.

(Gift from BIL/SIL)

LOVE!

(Gift from BIL/SIL)

I don't even know what bits & bobs are but OMG cuteness!

(Gift from BIL/SIL)

This one is so fuzzy and sweet!

(Gift from BIL/SIL)

A WubbaNub! Our blogging buddy Cole recommended this to us and we used our swag bucks GCs to pay for it! It's so stinking cute :) Thanks Cole!

We are being lent this amazing bouncer and matching swing from my cousin who had a beautiful little boy last year! This is the same cousin that lent me all the awesome maternity clothes.

Hello Followers!

2011-10-26T04:30:00.000-07:00

Hi new followers!

I have notice a huge increase in my followers lately and I thank you! But, I don't know who you are or if you blog, what your blog name is. If you would like me to check out your blog leave a comment and I will! I'm always looking to find new blogs that interest me.

And so we can get to know each other better answer these 3 questions for me, don't worry I will answer them for you too.

1. What is your favorite fruit?

2. What is the best book you have read lately?

3. Are you a cat person or a dog person..or both?

Here are my answers:
1. Apples! Delicious.
2. I'm currently reading Ellen DeGeneres' new book Seriously...I'm Kidding and it's hilarious!
3. I'm both. Check out my furr babies on my family tab above.

Also don't forget to check out my pinterest and twitter! I tweet often.

And please take a moment and vote for me, I appreciate it!

Pin it Tuesday - 10/25 (crafts)

2011-10-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

I am completely addicted to pinterest and so when I saw that Crazy About My Baybah, Mommy Head Adventures and Crazy Cool with a Side of Crafty host Pin it Tuesday each week I squeeeed with delight. To join you can click my link above or visit one of their blog sites. There are no requirements on what you share, just share what you love or inspires you.

This week I'm sharing things I've pinned on my Craft board. I LOVE doing art with my nanny kids and I can't wait to do crafts with my baby.

Source: google.nl via Molly on Pinterest

Source: None via Molly on Pinterest

Source: barnesfamilylove.blogspot.com via Molly on Pinterest

Miracle

2011-10-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Source: 1.bp.blogspot.com via Molly on Pinterest

Mr.Awesome and I are feeling extremely blessed these days and so after a few months break (I hate to even admit this) we finally made it to church this morning. I'd like to say that we had a good reason for not going to church before but we really don't. Not only is our church within walking distance but we really didn't have anything going on. We just didn't want to go but today, today was different. We went and we loved it and we can't wait to go again. Our Pastor is amazing and is so great with kids. I just can't wait to baptize Bean and I hope Bean enjoys church as much as we really do.

And on a related note, I want to hang it in Bean's room because it is so very true:

Source: etsy.com via Anessa on Pinterest

Pregnancy Symptoms

2011-10-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

Before you are pregnant (especially when you are infertile -- or at least I think) you dream about being pregnant. And you dream about all these amazing pregnancy "symptoms" you will get. At least I know I did. And I'm happy to say I got some of them, I also got pregnancy symptoms I didn't want or didn't even dream were symptoms.

1: A cute little belly - check. Although lately it's passed cute and gone straight to huge and uncomfortable.
2: Constant sleepiness - *I wish, I love a good nap. Instead I choose...
2.5: Morning sickness - check...wait what you didn't dream about this, me neither.
3: Huge boobs - check. Although not desirable to me, I'm busting out of my E's at 25 weeks.
4: The ability to eat new foods - *boo no, I was really hoping I would try new things. Instead I got...
4.5: Food aversion- check. I can't look at chocolate or mac&cheese.
5: Raging heart burn/acid reflux - check. I feel for Mr.Awesome who has had acid reflux for years.
6: Feeling Bean move - check. This one makes up for the rest. Or it did until Bean started putting his/her foot in my rib. Such a naughty naughty baby.

What pregnancy symptoms have you had that you dreamed about?

Also look ---->
I have less than 100 days till I meet my Bean! Thanks for pointing that out Wee Mason's Mom.

Before Bean's Wishlist - take 2

2011-10-21T16:07:00.000-07:00

I have all these amazing blogging ideas and no time to do them. Isn't that how it always goes? Hopefully, I will get the blogging bug and some time tomorrow but this weekend is just packed full of projects and plans.

We are starting our attic remod project. Right about now I'm sure you are thinking..."your what? That wasn't even on the before Bean wishlist." What you aren't...well shh and keep reading. Well the before Bean wishlist has been modified in more than one way. First off instead of getting a new gun (number 4 on the list), Mr.Awesome got his 4wheeler all fixed up and ready to plow this winter. A much better plan IMO. We completely skipped numbers 1 and 2 (our two easiest projects) because of our recent washing machine/new range fiasco. We skipped ahead and bought our camera (number 6). And now our home repair (number 5) plans have been altered. Whoops, got a little off track there. We have decided to fix up our finish upstairs/attic and move Bean and our room up there. Instead of a $600 project this just became a $250 project. The upstairs is completely insulated and has dry-walls (or equivalent to them) but that's about it. Today we are mudding (putting putty in, whatever) all the seams and nail holes. I happen to be extremely good at this. Tomorrow we Mr.Awesome is add texture to the walls with a spray thingy. Impressed with my home repair knowledge yet? Next weekend we are painting the rooms a light-ish Earthy green, with our new spray painter. And then my favorite part...my PaPa is painting birch trees in Bean's nursery. Then I can officially start setting up my beautiful Bean's room. I am just so thrilled with this decision. After the attic project is complete we are doing some pretty amazing things to our main floor. I'll blog about that later. And watch for pictures of the attic remod.

So wish us luck! I can't wait to show off Bean's nursery.

Also if you haven't done it yet, please take a minute and vote for us!

#TruthaboutTrying

2011-10-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

I'M FAMOUS!

Okay not really but I was recently approached to help on RedBook magazines Truth about Trying campaign. I was asked to make a short video and talk about my infertility journey and any advice I have to share with any infertiles out there. I am so pleased that I was able to participate but I must warn you my video is pretty bad. (watch it here)
1. I filmed it on my iphone by myself, on my couch. (Mr.Awesome was very sad I didn't ask him for help, not sure why I didn't think of this.)
2. I have pregnancy symptoms working against me, mainly severe pregnancy brain and morning sickness.
*I promise I'm not on drugs and/or suffering a mental breakdown.

Just promise me you will listen to my wise wise words. And check out the other videos why you are there.

Wait a minute, I'm getting ahead of myself...What is the Truth about Trying campaign?

Redbook & Resolve (remember Bust a Myth) partnered together on an amazing project to raise awareness about infertility. They asked numerous infertility bloggers and tweeters (twitterers?) to participate in this project and from our short videos they put together an article (it'll be in the November issue of Redbook) called "The Invisible Pain of Infertility". Redbook/Resolve are encouraging all women who have or are dealing with infertility to speak up and end the shame & secrecy of infertility.I hope you will all take a minuete to make your own video or check out Redbook's website and learn more about Infertility.

Pin it Tuesday - 10/18 (Bean pictures)

2011-10-18T04:30:00.000-07:00

I am completely addicted to pinterest and so when I saw that Crazy About My Baybah, Mommy Head Adventures and Crazy Cool with a Side of Crafty host Pin it Tuesday each week I squeeeed with delight. To join you can click my link above or visit one of their blog sites. There are no requirements on what you share, just share what you love or inspires you.

This week I'm sharing things I've pinned on my Bean board. My friend Amie over at Just Another Autism Mom is an amazing photographer and has been doing all of my maternity pictures. These are ideas I've pinned for Bean's first newborn pictures with her!

Source: google.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: bing.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: miskamiller.blogspot.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: amelialyon.net via Molly on Pinterest

Keywords

2011-10-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

I was checking out my blog stats today and discovered you can see what "search keywords" were used to find your blog. For some reason I find some of these incredibly entertaining so I've decided to share:

pictures of bonfires
infertilenanny
infertilenanny.blogspot.com
your are not by accident
happy birthday awesome image
cowgirls ass at concert
i love naps
infertile morning sickness
infertile maria jean

I'm assuming whoever was looking for the cowgirls ass was greatly disappointed in my blog.

Life is a silly whore

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

I was looking back at some of my pre-Bean posts and came across this little nugget that I blogged on April 30, 2011:

"Yeesh. I wish TTC was as easy as a night of hard liquor and bad choices for me. *sigh* Needless to say it'll be quite awhile before we are able to hold our miracle in our arms. Unless of course I somehow ovulate on my own and am able to get pregnant in the near future. Hey, a girl can dream right?"

I find it strangely ironic that I wrote this on the cycle that we conceived our miracle and that I did conceive Bean on a night of hard liquor (gin/juice) and dirty romance novels. Life is funny.

Source: thechive.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: google.ca via Molly on Pinterest

Source: imgfave.lg1x8z.simplecdn.net via Molly on Pinterest

Success story

2011-10-16T06:53:00.000-07:00

I'm guest posting today over at Krissi's blog (Stress Free Infertility)! I'm so glad I could be part of her success story project. Please hop on over and check it out. And thank you Krissi for letting me tell my story.

24 Weeks/25 Week Appt.

2011-10-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm officially 25 weeks! Which means I missed posting my 24 week update so I'm doing a 2for1 since I also had an appt. today.

Current weight: 141.8 lbs. (at 25 week appt., 11 lbs. more from my last appt. at 19 weeks)
Total pregnancy weight gain: 21.8 lbs. :/
Measuring: right on track
(Bean's HB was 160)

Current pregnancy symptoms:

Bad acid reflux. Zantac and tums seem to keep it under control.
I have a hard time sleeping at night, especially on my left side. Dr.G said that my body will tell me if I need to move so not to worry.
I'm getting really light headed easy. My blood pressure was low at my appt. Dr G said it was from rapid weight gain and low protein. Nothing to be overly concerned with.
Bean is facing down or at least I think. It feels like Bean is constantly kicking my ribs/internal organ. And now I can feel when Bean rolls and wiggles.
My belly has gotten huge as well as my boobs. It's ridiculous really.

24 week Belly shot: Picture by Amie, you can find her at her blog.

What I'm looking forward to: watching my belly grow, our next appt Nov. 4 & our U/S on Nov. 19 to see if our placenta has raised, my baby shower, starting our home remodeling projects

International Babywearing Wk {guest post}

2011-10-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

First of all I just wanted to say a big thanks to Randalin, my guest poster. She is just an amazing person and an amazing mom. Please take a moment to check out her blog (Harvesting Kale) and fall in love with her like I have.

--------------------------------

Hi! My name is Randalin and I blogabout my adorable 17 month old son, Kale, and being a mama over atHarvesting Kale. Asparents, my partner, Kris, and I identify with the philosophies andpractices of attachment parenting. We bedshare and baby/toddler wear,adhere to gentle discipline methods (as much as our patience allowsus!), and contribute our son’s healthy appetite to baby-ledweaning.

When I saw that Molly was looking forsomeone to guest blog about babywearing, I jumped at the opportunityto share our experiences. I’m definitely not an expert, but hopethat what I can offer is useful to other parents and parents-to-be. Igush a lot about babywearing over at my blog and welcome you to readabout our babywearing experiences when we were 3months in and then oneyear later. For this guest post, I thought I would offer a quickreview of the carriers that we’ve used (including the ones we stilluse).

The (Cotton) Ring Sling.

This was the very first carrier that Iused with Kale – a beautiful (and durable) chocolate brown ZoloRingsling. Despite getting babywearing lessons from my Doulabefore Kale arrived and watching the DVD that came with the sling amillion times, I was still nervous about using it. I was a new parentand pretty much nervous about everything at this point. But the firsttime I put him in and saw how snug and content he was (and howcomfortable and hands free I was!), I was hooked on babywearing.

(a freshly baked Kale in the slingfor the first time)

I wore Kale in that ring sling almostconstantly for the first four months of his life. He was prettyhigh-needs as an infant and nothing settled him faster than beingworn. I mainly wore him tummy-to-tummy(or the snuggle carry), but as he got older he loved to sit kangaroostyle (or Buddha style) and later nestled with his weight on myhip. Now that Kale is a toddler, he’s not interested in being worn(he’d much rather be running and exploring on his own). However,there have been times when he’s drowsy and I’ve popped him in fora walk and he’s passed out in a matter of minutes.

The (Mesh) Ring Sling.

Kale was born in May and that firstsummer was a hot one. The cotton of my Zolo sling was pretty thickand I worried about Kale being too warm (not to mention how sweaty itmade me!). That’s when I found a mesh ring sling from a localcompany, Sew Funky. While thesling is meant to be worn in the water, I found the fabric much morebreathable and great for really hot days. Since the fabric is mesh itis a bit more slippery and I did find that I had to readjust morethan I did with the cotton sling, but the fact that I wasn’t slickwith sweat made it totally worth it. I also did use it in the waterquite a bit – whether it be in the pool, the open water, or eventhe shower (seriously, there were days I HAD to shower and wasn’twilling to listen to him scream so I brought him in and he lovedit!).

(Kale’s first time swimming – hefell asleep!)

(Nursing Kale on crowded bus inCuba)

The Beco.

When it came to quick errands andaround the house, wearing Kale in the sling was the best optionbecause it was so fast to pop him in and out. However, it could getuncomfortable for me when it came to wearing Kale for longer periodsof time. Kris and I looked at both the Becoand the Ergo and ithonestly came down to the fact that I liked the fabric patterns onthe Beco more! Despite the fact that Kris is almost a full foottaller than I am, we were both very comfortable wearing Kale in theBeco and found it really easy to adjust. We could wear him for HOURSwithout feeling uncomfortable or strained. I still wear Kale in theBeco (at 17 months) on my back, but we’re lucky to get 10 minutesin before he wants down to run and explore!

The Pouch Sling.

As much as Kris loved wearing Kale, hefound the ring sling really difficult to adjust. He mostly wore Kalein the Beco when he was really tiny, but when Kale was around fourmonths he really wanted to be looking around more so we got Kris hisown pouch sling. This was great for him because it was sized for hisheight and there were no adjustments required! Kale could sit on hiship when he wanted to be looking around and then snuggle in with thetummy-to-tummy hold when he wanted to sleep. Kris actually walkedKale to sleep in that sling for MONTHS that first summer and thenagain this year when the weather warmed up.

The Mei Tai.

I got a KozyMei Tai carrier when Kale was around four months because hereally wanted to see where he was going. After research forwardfacing carriers and theimplications it can have for young babies, I decided againstpurchasing one of these. Instead I got the mei tai so I could wearKale in a high-backcarry so he could see over my shoulder (and rest his head andlook away if he got overstimulated). I also wore him tummy-to-tummyand found it easier to use than the Beco, but just as comfortable forwearing for long periods of time.

Backpack Carrier

When Kale was 10 months old we went toCuba for a friend’s wedding. There was no way we were going to luga stroller to another country (not only because it’s awkward andheavy, but Kale has never liked the stroller), but wanted somethingthat we could wear Kale in for long periods while being covered fromthe hot sun. We ended up with a Phil& Ted’s Escape Backpack Carrier. It’s really comfortableto wear, comes with a sunhood and has lots of storage (it fiteverything from the diaper bag, plus our swimsuits and more!). Kalehas now outgrown Kris’s pouch sling and so this is his carrier ofchoice these days.

These days Kale isn’t a huge fan ofbeing in a carrier for too long because he loves to run around andexplore. He’s warmed up to his stroller a little bit, but wouldstill rather be carried in our arms. Kale is super independent andfriendly (we’re going to have a hard time teaching this one aboutstranger danger!), but also LOVES to cuddle and be close to us.People with kids the same age as Kale or older always comment on howsnuggly he is with us and I totally attribute this to babywearing.There are so many other benefitsto babywearing and I’m so happy to see more and more parentstrying it out. It may take some time to find the perfect carrier foryou and your babe, but I hope this post gave you some startingpoints!

looking forward (not backwards)

2011-10-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

I like lists! Do you like lists?

Here's things you have to look forward to on my blog:

A new look! You may already notice I changed the background on my blog. What you have to look forward to yet is a very exciting name change! And hopefully a move to WP. (Any awesome followers want to help a not so techy lady out let me know.)
More belly updates! Lately I have been really sucking the big one on this whole weekly/monthly updates. I promise (for my sake and Bean's) to do better. I'm 25 weeks today but I'll be posting my 24 week update with new professional belly pic in the next few days. (Shh I know it's late.)
A GIVEAWAY! You read that right. I am currently working on a memory book for Bean from Bellflower Books. It is seriously the most touching and meaningful project I've done for my LO (so far) and I cannot wait to do a review and giveaway. Look for it in the end of November after my baby shower.
Which brings me to: my baby shower! Okay that's more something I'm looking forward to but you can look forward to lots of pictures.
Bean's Bounty memes! Now that I have a brand new beautiful camera I am able to take pictures of my amazing hand me downs/gifts that I've gotten and received for Bean. I cannot wait to share with you all the beautiful and amazing things that await my baby.
Zoe's ridiculous pouty lip and more tales of my littles (the cats). My pets are a huge part of my life and I feel like I haven't written nearly enough about them.
A post on Breast Cancer Awareness & Alzheimer's Awareness! First of all October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and as someone who has had a biopsy in the past I think it's a very important subject. Alzheimer's is a disease that effects so many people. A few weeks ago Mr.Awesome & I walked to raise awareness for Alzheimer's and it just so happens my amazing MIL is very involved in the organization. Look for these post soon.
It's International Baby Wearing month and I am having a guest post on the subject (since Bean is obviously still in my uterus). Baby wearing is one for the things I am looking forward to most after Bean is born.

see you later stress-o-gator (aka FB)

2011-10-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Molly & it's been exactly one month since I went on a hormonal rage and deleted my Facebook. I did start a new Facebook for a select few family and friends (mainly long distance ones) but with less than 50 "friends" on it can you even count it? Despite the fact that I almost cracked a few times and reactivated my old FB I can honestly say I'm so much happier without it. Small FB = less drama. And with Bean on the way I'm not sure how much time I'll have to actually FB, this blog is much more important to me.

So now that my "eyes have been opened" to the evils of FB I thought I would share some excellent FB advice:

(PS: I'm a total pinterest addict now)

Source: charactercountsiniowa.files.wordpress.com via Amy on Pinterest

Very key point right here!

Source: brotips.com via Logan on Pinterest
It actually scares me how many people do this!

Source: bas345.deviantart.com via Leslie on Pinterest

Seriously people, it's only Facebook.

And one I couldn't find but I feel is important enough to state: "just because you aren't on my Facebook, doesn't mean you aren't a part of my life". Seriously, pick up a phone and text or call or even better lets make a date!

Pin it Tuesday - 10/11 (Home)

2011-10-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

I am completely addicted to pinterest and so when I saw that Crazy About My Baybah, Mommy Head Adventures and Crazy Cool with a Side of Crafty host Pin it Tuesday each week I squeeeed with delight. To join you can click my link above or visit one of their blog sites. There are no requirements on what you share, just share what you love or inspires you.

This week I'm sharing things I've pinned on my Home board. Although most of these will most likely not become a reality it's nice to dream.

Source: etsy.com via Molly on Pinterest

I totally need this!

Source: archdaily.com via Molly on Pinterest

This is my heaven.

Source: storageandglee.blogspot.com via Molly on Pinterest

This makes my OCD smile.

Source: shelterness.com via Molly on Pinterest

This is on Mr.Awesome's project list. Love how simple it is!

To see the rest of my pins check out my pinterest:

changes

2011-10-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Source: simplysweethome.com via Kimberly on Pinterest

I love Fall! I love apple cider, pumpkins, leaves, fall foods...pretty much everything about Fall! With that said after discussing our budget and options Mr.Awesome and I decided to move up the purchasing of our new camera (from our before Bean wish list) so we wouldn't miss capturing any of our Fall adventures. Was this what Dave Ramsey would do...probably not but we decided it was important enough to us to "break" a few rules. And I know we probably could have gotten a cheaper camera for the time being but why waste the money on a camera we will most likely want to replace before Bean is born. Anyways the point is we are thrilled with our new purchase and we thought yesterday was a perfect opportunity to test it out!

The camera we choose (after much research) was Sony Cyber-Shot DSC Hx100v (here is the Best Buy page). What we loved about this camera is that it has the easiness of a point & shoot but you can also use it like you would a DSLR. We are not looking to become professional photographers but we love the option to learn and improve our photography skills.

We went to the Lake (my parent's lake property) yesterday with my parents and Zoe. My Dad & Mr.Awesome had to take out the dock (before it freezes) so I had awhile to play around with our new toy. The majority of the pictures were taken on the intelligent auto feature but I did play around a little with some of the other manual features.

our cabin (obviously a work in progress)

Mr.Awesome on his 4wheeler

Fall :)

leaves

my attempt at an action shot

frog

Zoe doing her classic Lab head tilt

Zoe loves Bean

Sickness

2011-10-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

I know I said I'd post about meeting my beautiful baby niece but since I got home I've been sick. I officially have my first illness while pregnant, the flu, and it sucks. I have just been miserable. The good news is that so far I've avoided dehydration. And apparently sickness is contagious because my clothes washer got sick today and died, mid-cycle. I miss my washer already and I can feel my OCD kicking in since I was hoping to do a load or two today.

Anyways, hopefully I'll be better in the near future so I can post some pictures and gush about my beaut of a niece.

home remod pics (pt 2)

2011-10-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Part 2: The washing machine

the new washing machine

Mr.Big doing some plumbing mumbo jumbo

Ta-da complete!

Not pictured: the other 5 hours of rewiring and plumbing etc my awesome men had to do. Also my sexy Mr.Awesome using his power tools.

Whoa Bonus picture:

Mr.Awesome and his mom at a Walk to End Alzheimer's event..

Look for a future post on this!

Also side note: please forgive the crappy quality of all my pictures lately. I am still camera-less :(

home remod pics (pt 1)

2011-10-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Part 1: The range (oven) -- seriously what is this called?

our new range (oven)

our old LP range, not beautiful but functional

step one complete

Mr.Big & Mr.Awesome pushing in my stove

Ta-Da, isn't it beautiful

heehee Mr.Big got stuck

Not pictured: the fact that these amazing boys had to rewire the whole dang thing since we went from gas to electric.

Good/Bad

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Good: Mr.Awesome's Dad (who owns his own heating/plumbing business) came over Friday and converted our LP gas to City natural gas. Not only did he take time out of his incredibly busy life and do the work for free but he provided us with a new tank and equipment free of charge. We are super grateful for his help.

Bad: Unfortunately, since we converted everything we needed to buy a new range (oven). And as luck would have it (and you know since I'm sure you read my blog) our washing machine died so we needed to replace that as well.

Good: However, my very generous parents surprised us with an early baby shower gift: a new washing machine. I am completely in love with it and so appreciative for the gift.

Good: Thanks to Dave Ramsey's TMMO we were able to budget a new range into our weekly budget. And we found a beautifully awesome electric one for a very reasonable price.

Good: Mr.Big (our very close friend) spent over 6 hours of his Saturday helping Mr.Awesome install said new washing machine and range. His help was invaluable since he is a jack of all trades (much like my lover, Mr.Awesome).

Bad: Apparently installing washing machines and ranges are more expensive than one would think, especially when you install them in different locations then they were originally in.

Good: Again thanks to Dave Ramsey's TMMO we have a beautiful little savings account called our "emergency fund" for this very reason.

Good: Mr.Awesome's mom gave us our wedding gift. No we weren't recently married (it'll be 6 years in Jan) but when we were married she offered to but us a new appliance. We didn't need anything at the time since we bought our house with everything included and decided to rain check it. So although we had to dip into our emergency savings it is replenished thanks to her generous gift at a very convenient time.

So to recap, although the beginning of last week was difficult (to say the least) it ended pretty darn good!

{look for pictures tomorrow}

Is it bed time yet?

2011-10-03T17:48:00.000-07:00

I imagine this is what Bean looks like right now.

(source courtesy of google)

Where has my energy gone? I am thinking Bean has sucked it all up because although I am exhausted all day long, Bean is kicking and moving all the time. And I mean all the time. I have one wiggly little Bean a growing. I feel extremely blessed to have the constant reminder that I am in fact still pregnant. Anyways I got a little off track, the point of this post was to say "I'm still here" and I will blog more later this week. I promise. In the mean time I'm going to bed. Yes bed, at 7:40 pm.

Lil' Star (Pt2)

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Part 2:
(Pictures courtesy of Maria, my future SIL)

Proud grandparents

Don't you just want to chew on those cheeks.

My favorite picture. Lil' Star holding my hand.

Lil' Star with Bean & Me

(I am getting huge!)

Uncle Ducky & Lil' Star

Auntie Maria & Lil' Star

Lil' Star (pt1)

2011-09-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

Part 1:
I know this is about a week late but this week has sucked and I've been lazy so better late then never...

The fam and I drove 6 hours (with many potty breaks) to visit my older brother and his family but mainly to meet my newest niece, Lil' Star. She is perfect and tiny and I'm completely in love. I could go on and on but it'll just be more fun to show off some pictures.

(pictures are courtesy of my little brother's fiancee)

Proud Grandpa meets Lil' Star

Lil' Star and her Daddy

Proud aunties and uncle

Mr.Awesome & Lil' Star

(I can't wait to see him with Bean)

Lil' Star and proud parents

Happy 1 year Blogoversary!

2011-09-29T17:17:00.000-07:00

To me that is! If you've been with me since the beginning, I thank you. If you are new, thanks for checking my blog out. A lot has happened this past year and this blog has defiantly turned out differently then I expected. Here are a few highlights.

My first post: How I Became an Infertile Nanny

We adopted a puppy, Zoe Autumn

I schooled y'all on What not to say to an Infertile friend

We said eff you to 2010, the hardest year of our lives

I started my 100 book challenge, still working on this.

I busted an Infertility myth.

I was featured on Love is Everywhere blog.

I finally announced my PREGNANCY!!!

Our first ultrasound of our baby, aka Bean.

Zoe turns one.

My morning sickness is gone. (This was huge for me!)

We had our 19 week ultrasound. Bean's sex is still a mystery (our choice).

Mr.Awesome felt Bean kick.

Now as my Blogoversary gift I'd like you to please leave me a comment :)

When it rains...

2011-09-28T18:03:00.000-07:00

This is a tough week. And that is a huge understatement, like maybe the understatement of the year. I know I know things could always be worse but that doesn't mean that I can't wish they were better. So let me lay down this week for you.

*feel free to leave my woe-is-me post now*

1. As I've said before we are switching from LP to natural gas and with that we are switching to a gas or electric (oven) range. Although, we knew we would have to buy a new (or new to us) one it still seemed to sneak up on us and surprise we need one like this weekend. Mr.Awesome's Dad is coming Friday to help us convert everything over and also to help tear out our old appliances so if we don't buy one this weekend I will be ovenless.

2. My washer has officially died. Not only did it die but it died mid-cycle so I had to hand wash and ring out a full load of laundry. So add washer to the list of things we will need to buy. I know you can get cheap washers but getting the washer is only half the issue. I think our house was built around our old washer/dryer because for us to take out the old one and put the new one in we have to remove a wall. Yes a whole freaking wall in our basement. Why don't we just put it somewhere else you ask....because it would cost more to set up somewhere else then take out the damn wall.

3. After having my very good friend (who happens to have mad computer skillz) check out our computer we have discovered it's not fixable. Yes the Internet works but it has a ton of other issues including the fact that a printer will never work with it. Sigh. This isn't huge on our list of things to get but darnit all I want a working computer.

What, you thought my list was done? I wish.

4. The dog literally ate my camera. I have been without a camera for months now and it's killing me. I hate not being able to capture my everyday moments or even my every growing belly. Grrrr.... Very frustrating. And I know I could buy a cheaper replacement but this is pretty much the only thing I'm not willing to skimp on. I really think with cameras you get what you pay for. The camera I'd like to get is about $450 which isn't a lot but I still don't have that lying around and/or a money tree.

5. We have yet to start remodeling our house for Bean. I know a nursery isn't that important for the first few months but my nesting is starting to kick in and I want to decorate. I feel at this point I should remind y'all that I am jobless/paycheckless starting in Dec. And no I can't work longer, my replacement starts then. So all of these things need to be done before then.

6. I know I already kind of complained about this but I have the flu. I hate being sick but being sick and pregnant is ten times worse.

I'm miserable and stressed and overwhelmed. I kind of just want to crawl in a corner and cry.

Okay feel free to tell me to buck up.

See you next week!

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'll be MIA this weekend since I am ~~driving~~ riding to Chicago (with Mr.Awesome & family) to meet my new baby niece Lil' Star! Oh and of course visit with my older brother & family. This will be our first time away from Zoe since we adopted her last fall (she'll be boarded) so I'm a little nervous. I imagine if leaving my dog behind for a vacation is challenging, I'll never be leaving Bean behind. Anyways look for an update on my trip plus some adorable pics of my niece Monday!

Have a good weekend everyone!

All Grown Up

2011-09-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

There are a ton of changes coming up in my near future and it makes me feel all grown up. I realize I'm already a grown up (26 yrs old, paying a mortgage, happily married, with a stable job) so it's funny that these events are what really make me feel that way. Anyways enjoy my ~~ramblings~~ list of events.

We currently only have Internet & netflix (no cable). Since I'm going to be staying at home in two months we are going to switch to a local carrier and get a bundle that includes cable, Internet, and a landline phone. Since we are having a landline phone I am giving up my iPhone (which I greatly dislike) and using my old yet beloved LG shine. The idea of having a landline makes me feel giddy and all grown up. Why, I don't know since it's kind of lame. *This also means that if you need to reach me you will have to resort to calling the landline or texting my cell, I won't be on FB or twitter as much.

We are paying what we feel is a ridiculous amount for our car insu.rance, especially since only one car is fully insured. And we use the same company for our home insu.rance so you would think that we would get a discount or something. Anyways we are shopping around for a new company which is a little exciting.

We are getting rid of our wood stove in exchange for natural gas. We absolutely love(d) our wood stove but with a new infant in the house and my husband working nights we didn't feel it was safe. With our natural gas we are getting a new oven (well new to us) and installing a dishwasher! I am so freakin' over-the-moon excited for a dishwasher. I think I probably spend a good hour each day washing, drying, and putting away dishes. If I run the dishwasher at night I'm looking at 15 minutes of actual dishes time. That's not a pipe dream, right?

We are remodeling our home. We currently have a pretty open floor plan (our doing since we got rid of walls) and one bedroom on the main floor. We will be remodeling our huge living room to be a moderate sized living room and a nursery. I'm super excited for this since the idea of cleaning two regular size rooms seems much more doable then cleaning a huge over cluttered living room. I also can not wait to start decorating Bean's room. We are going with a "nature" theme, including green walls.

And most importantly we are having a baby (which was very much planned)! If that doesn't say grown up, I don't know what does.

Side note: I'm 22 weeks today! According to my phone Bean officially looks like a new born but itty bitty. Bean celebrated by throwing a dance party in my belly which includes kicking me in places a person should not be kicked. Naughty Bean :)

wordless wednesday - 9/21 Pinterest

2011-09-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

I am totally addicted to pinterest so I thought I'd share a few of my favorites so far...

Source: flickr.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: darlinglittledetails.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: greylikesbaby.com via Molly on Pinterest

Source: isuwannee.com via Molly on Pinterest

Loo names Bean

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night we had a impromptu family get together. My Grandma is visiting so Mr.Awesome and I thought it would be nice if we could all go out to eat. The beauty of the small town we live in is that my parents and my little brother, Ducky, live oh about 45 seconds from our house so when we decided to have family dinners it's not a challenge to get everyone together. So we met up with all of them (including Maria and Loo) at our favorite local pub/restaurant. Loo has recently caught on that I'm pregnant (it's hard to miss it) so she has been totally obsessed with my belly. I love the mind of a child. She was giving my belly kisses and telling me about all the things she is going to do for the baby (change peepee diapers and put on dresses) and she has somehow has gotten it in her mind that she gets to name Bean. She has decided that if Bean is a girl her name will be Aurora and if Bean is a boy his name will be Romeo. I guess I should be glad that they are actual names.

Jumping Bean

2011-09-18T10:58:00.000-07:00

I am feeling so blessed these days. My beautiful little Bean has been such a wiggle worm and it's a wonderful reassurance that my LO is happy and healthy. I am constantly feeling little jabs and kicks and I love every one of them. Mr.Awesome has felt Bean numerous times now and so has my very lucky little brother, Ducky. And I think it makes it all the more real.

So grow baby Bean grow, Mommy & Daddy love you so much already.

Also if you haven't gotten a chance, check out my nursery ideas and stuff for Bean on my pinterest! I'm totally addicted!

4 year anniversary

2011-09-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 4 year anniversary. It was not Mr.Awesome and my marriage anniversary (January 5) or the anniversary of when we first started dating (January 26). It wasn't the anniversary of when we moved into our home or of when we adopted our pets. It *would have been our 4 year anniversary of when we started TTC. 4 long years. If I had not been pregnant with Bean I would have done what I do every year when we hit a new TTC marker, I would have spent my day hiding and crying in a corner, wondering can I really do this for one more year? But this year is different. This year I feel like we finally got some closure. We are officially half way through our pregnancy and if feels so good to know that this anniversary isn't one we will ever have to celebrate again. I know that pregnancy isn't always a cure for infertility but right now in this moment, it kind of feels like it might be.

New name, new beginings

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

So in the past I've blogged about not changing my blog name due to the fact that infertility isn't "cured". I still stand by that but I'm facing another issue, starting in December I will no longer be a nanny. Because of that fact and the fact that my blog has turned into a pregnant (soon to be mom) after infertility and not a TTC infertility blog, I've decided to look into a new name and a new look. Any ideas? I'm thinking something with Bean in the title or Bean sprouts since Bean will remain Bean after he/she is born.

Also just for fun...suggest a name for Bean!

You are NOT an accident

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am so SO proud of the fact that Bean was not only planned but took years to make. It means the World to me that not only me but my husband was involved in the decision to make our beautiful Bean. And I can't wait to tell Bean every day of his/her life that they were planned.

With that being said I'd like to address a big pet peeve. There are *almost no accidental babies. Yes, there are some rare situations (failed birth control, etc) where a baby is made on accident but *big BUT* if you are an adult and you are having unprotected sex stop acting surprised when you do in fact get pregnant. For the majority of people (except for us poor infertiles) unprotected sex = babies. Yes you may not get pregnant but if you do for the love of all that's holy don't act like you are shocked. And that goes for guys too. You guys are just as capable of using birth control as your ladies are so you are equally responsible. It blows my mind how many adults I know that claim to have an accidental pregnancy and it makes me sad. Babies are not accidents, they are not oopses, each and every one of them is a miracle and if you are "responsible" enough to have unprotected sex than you are "responsible" enough to live with the results.

ETA: As I re-read this I'd like to add that there is a huge difference between an "accidental baby" and a baby you didn't have to try for (try=actively trying to conceive). I know quite a few very lucky ladies who got pregnant without actively trying to conceive but the difference is they were prepared to have a baby.

Happy Birthday Mr.Awesome!

2011-09-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Today my husband is turning 26! I'd say he's old but I turned 26 last month and I don't feel old. Okay I do but still. I took the day off so I could spend time with my lovie and take him to breakfast. I also cleaned our entire house before he got home (someone deserves a gold star). Sadly no birthday cake for Mr.Awesome though, he's on a diet and Bean hates chocolate. All in all for having a birthday during the work week, it was a good one.

Happy birthday Mr.Awesome!

It's hard to relax with a dog on your chest.

Bean loves Daddy

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot to mention that yesterday Mr.Awesome felt Bean kick! I was sitting on the couch (Mr.Awesome was on the floor) and I felt Bean kick/saw my belly move. Poor Mr.Awesome didn't even want to try to feel Bean since he's been trying for days but I talked him into it and miraculously he felt our little one. Bean kicked a good 3 or 4 times for Daddy and he is thrilled! That completely made my day :)

FB is the devil

2011-09-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

I've been having a lot of issues with facebook lately. I'm not sure if it's me being hormonal (I've been told it's not by many) or what but I am just tired of all the stress and drama it's brought me. So tired in fact I have decided to delete my FB page all together. I did start a very small private one just for those out of town friends and family members whom I have no other easier way of keeping in contact with. If you use to follow me on FB don't be offended if you aren't invited to now, very few are. And my new FB page is mainly to keep those who out of towners up to date on my pregnancy. I will of course keep all of my friends, family, and followers up to date on here and if you are really close to me you know how to reach me on my phone or email. I hope everyone understands!