The Gardner Family

10 months!

2009-08-26T18:51:00.006-04:00

My dearest Audrey turned 10 months old on August 15. It is now time for me to get in gear planning her 1st birthday party! I have decided on a ladybug theme (it was our sorority's mascot). I'm so excited to gather family and friends to celebrate the life of our miracle!

A little about Audrey at 10 months:

She wears 9 month clothing and some 12 month stuff now too

She has 3 teeth--- the two bottom middle teeth and the top right canine tooth (odd, right?)

She sleeps through the night from 9pm- 7:30am

She STILL continues to wave at absolutely everyone and if you tell her to say "hi" or "bye" she knows she should wave

She crawls like a bat out of hell---- and each day it only gets faster

She now eats every type of baby food (nothing she doesn't like either!) and she has moved to the stage 3 jars so she has some chunky food now

Her favorite snacks are puffs and wagon wheels and if you say "snack" she follows you to the kitchen to get her little cup.

She says "dada" and seems to start registering that's for Daddy. She says "gup" for up. She says "ba" for bottle. She knows "dog" for Charley. And the other day she shocked me by saying "cat" VERY clearly. The only time she says "mom" it comes out "momomomomom" and when she wants me....other than that, I have no name.

Her favorite activities are climbing on Daddy and Charley and pulling Charley's hair.

She has a huge interest in pulling herself up on anything she can and then she stands there and laughs.

She still has big blue eyes and strawberry-blonde hair (although it seems more blonde lately)

You can see her hair is getting out of control!!!!

Exam and Beach!

2009-07-30T21:42:00.002-04:00

So tomorrow is finally the day.....the qualifying exam is happening! I couldn't be more excited and ready to get it over with. Basically you prepare your essays ahead of time and just wait for them to email you the number you get and then send that essay back. After having a pretty brutal professor this summer, another professor decided to look over our essays to make sure we were on the right track. Luckily, mine needed next to nothing fixed! I looked over it again tonight and it's ready to go for tomorrow morning! I will be so relieved to email it and know that it's done! We'll find out the results in about 3 weeks....

Saturday we leave for vacation. We're taking our annual trip to Ocean City, MD. I couldn't be more excited! We've had quite a whirlwind year--- baby, grad school, promotion, etc. Vacation is definitely needed! Jedd scored tickets to see the Red Sox/Orioles on Saturday night so we're going to the game (yes, Miss Audrey is joining us) and then leaving from there to continue the rest of the way to the beach.

I'm sure I'll have lots of updates and pictures to post when we return!

9 months old!

2009-07-21T10:42:00.004-04:00

Audrey turned 9 months old last Wednesday, July 15. I can't believe it. Audrey has now officially been outside of my belly longer than she was ever inside. I think 9 months was the first time it really hit me how fast time is going. When I was pregnant with her, 9 months took FOREVER. Now, I feel like I'm trying to hold on to the last 3 months that I can still call Audrey a "baby".

A little about Audrey now:
-She weighs 17.9 pounds and is 28.5 inches long
-Her head circumference is 44cm
-She wears 6-9 mo and 9 mo clothes
-She is in a size 3 diaper
-Still only has 2 bottom teeth (but 2 top teeth are so close to pushing through)
-She sits up by herself
-She crawls EVERYWHERE and gets faster by the day
-She tries to pull up on anything she can
-She's starting to stand for longer periods of time
-She waves hello and goodbye to everything (When someone leaves a room and comes back, Charley, people on tv, etc. )
-She still refers to most things as "baba" or "dada"
-She eats all different types of fruits and veggies
-She now eats Puffs as well and feeds them to herself (apparently he learned how to take the lid off the Puffs too!)
-She loves swimming and being in the pool

As I reflect back on the last 9 months I just can't express enough how grateful I am to have such a healthy and happy baby girl! She is truly the love of our lives!

Wedding, 8 months, Anniversary, Concert!

2009-06-29T19:46:00.009-04:00

Well, grad school is completely kicking my butt this summer! I'm only taking 6 credits (2 classes) but it's MUCH different with a baby to take care of! Audrey keeps me entertained as I'm writing papers--- she babbles next to me the entire time.

Jedd and I enjoyed my pledge sister Lauren's wedding in DC on June 13. It was our first night away from Audrey and we did well! It was a beautiful day and a beautiful wedding! So happy for her!

Some of my lovely pledge sisters and I

Jedd and I

The beautiful bride

Audrey turned 8 months old on June 15. 8 MONTHS?!?!?! She's so amazing.

A little about what she's doing:
-Babbling non-stop (she has mastered ba, da, and occasionally ma and la)
-Wears 6-9 month clothes
-Size 3 diaper
-Can sit independently for a little longer...but still being LAZY
-Gets up on all fours and rocks back and forth
-Can move to where she wants my scooting (she also crawls with her head DOWN!)
-Has TWO teeth--- the bottom 2. The second one came in on June 11.
-Eats solids--- she has tried carrots, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, rice, and we're still adding new ones
-Loves being outside
-Loves Charley and pulling his hair (he's such a good sport)
-Holds her own bottle and feed herself-- with ONE hand
-Sleeps on her belly with her feet tucked under her and her butt up in the air

Almost crawling...

On June 23, Jedd and I celebrated two years of marriage. We went back to Allenberry again (where we were married and had our reception) to take pictures. We've been going back each year to get a picture on the rocking chairs on the front porch of the mansion. It's a cute tradition and we LOVED having Audrey to share it with this year!

This weekend we also spent an evening away from Audrey. My best friend Melissa go us tickets to see Kenny Chesney, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Montgomery Gentry, and Sugarland in concert. It was AMAZING!!!! We were definitely feeling the effects the next day!

My best friend Melissa and I

Lots of ASA girls at the concert!

Jedd and I

Other than that, nothing is really new! I'm amazed that time is flying by so quickly. July already in a few days....I only have 8 more days of grad school left and then I have a huge qualifying exam I need to pass to move up in my program. After that.... I'll update much more frequently!

Sweet Summer!

2009-06-09T18:49:00.004-04:00

I'm baaaaaack!! I can't believe it's been nearly a month since I posted!

Audrey is now less than a week away from being 8 months old!!! I can't even believe it.
It's been a crazy few weeks for us. School officially ended on Friday but I've been going in to finish up all my paperwork (special ed, gotta love it) and getting my room ready for summer cleaning. I started one of my grad school classes last night. It's an online course so we only have to meet 2 times all semester which is nice. I start my other course on Monday and that's everyday for 5 weeks--- YUCK!

Jedd bought me a Canon Rebel XTI for my birthday!!! I almost couldn't believe it. I've been able to capture some absolutely beautiful pictures of Audrey!!! I feel like a professional photographer now!

Jedd and I are heading to Washington D.C. this weekend for one of my dear pledge sisters weddings! I'm really excited about seeing all my best friends from college but absolutely devastated to leave Audrey for the first time overnight. I'll post pictures after this weekend!!

I'm still here!!!

2009-05-21T20:16:00.001-04:00

I promise I have not disappeared forever! We had a really busy weekend--- Audrey was 7 months old on Friday (5/15), Jedd and I went away for the day to Atlantic City on Saturday, and Sunday was my 25th birthday!!! To top it all off, allergies hit me like crazy and I was super sick for it ALL! I'll update with pictures and stuff over the weekend!!!

Hope everyone had a great week! Mine went so fast!!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T19:25:00.003-04:00

Today I celebrated my first Mother's Day as a mom. Wow, suddenly you realize what this holiday is all about. Last year I was a little over 4 months pregnant and Jedd made sure it was a special day for me, but today was even better! We carried on our annual Mother's Day tradition and had a bushel of hard-shelled crabs! YUMMMM!! Jedd and I were able to celebrate Mother's Day with both of our moms which is extremely important to us.

Jedd was so cute--- he went out and got me flowers, a card from Audrey, and a card from him. My mom treated me to bali blue Vera Bradley flip flops too!! Of course, her card made me cry too!!!

My life has been forever changed by Audrey. Suddenly, I realize my purpose in life--- and it is to love and care for her. I feel blessed beyond words this Mother's Day.

Happy Mother's Day to all the other Mom's out there--- we have the MOST important job in the world! How lucky are we?!?

Food and a TOOTH!

2009-05-10T19:13:00.005-04:00

Thursday (May 7) was my Mom's birthday! Unfortunately, my older sister wasn't feeling well so we decided to postpone my mom's birthday dinner. We have a tradition that when it's your birthday you get to pick a restaurant to go out to eat to and everyone goes. I felt bad we weren't doing anything, so Jedd and I decided to do a dinner for my mom at our house.

Grandma and Audrey

Well, May 7 turned out to be a big day for other reasons! Finally, after 2+ months of constant drool and fussiness, Miss Audrey cut her first tooth!!! It's on the bottom left side of her gums and each day it slowly comes up more and more. It is TOO cute!!!!

We also decided to give Audrey her first taste of solids! We started her out on carrots and she LOVED them! I was worried she wouldn't think much of solids but she ate the whole container!! It was exciting to give her something other than a bottle. We have a Dr.'s appointment tomorrow so I'm looking forward to talking with him about what the next step is and how often we can give her solids, etc.

The first bite

Hmmmm.... what is that stuff?

I like carrots!!!

May 7 was a very important day to us for many reasons--- but mostly, it's the BEST Mom in the world's special day. Happy Birthday Mom!!!

No time for blogging!

2009-04-29T19:48:00.005-04:00

I can't believe I let this thing go weeks in between when I update! I used to be so good about updating this nightly and now I can't even find the time!

As of Monday night, I am officially DONE grad school until June! YES!!!!! I just can't wait until I'm done FOREVER....but that will come with time. I'm only 9 credits into a 33 credit program--- gosh, that seems like sooooo far to go! I'm hoping to be done either by December 2010 or May 2011. Either way, it's not easy working full time, taking care of a newborn daughter, and going to school part time! I hate that PA makes us get these credits....makes you feel like your FIRST college degree is useless!

Nothing is really new with Miss Audrey. We're still going through the whole teething thing, but no teeth have showed up yet! The poor girl is struggling and evenings seem to be the worst. She doesn't seem to have any issues at night though because she's still sleeping soundly through the night (thank goodness).

Some pictures of my love (who by the way is 28 weeks old today!):

In her robe after bathtime

Learning to stand

Hamming it up for the camera!

6 months and BEACH!

2009-04-21T18:20:00.006-04:00

Wow-- I'm back! Sorry it's been so long since I've updated.

Last Wednesday, April 15, we proudly celebrated Audrey's 1/2 year birthday!!! It's so hard to believe our little girl has been with us for 6 months already! We treasure every single day we've been blessed with her and we're excited to keep seeing her grow (so fast) right before our eyes.
Some things about Miss Audrey:

She is still in her 6 month clothes (the pants are getting too short but they're still a little big around her petite waist)
She rolls both ways and FAST
She "scoots" around... if you leave her laying on a blanket, it's no problem for her to scoot 5 feet away from it!
She's still sleeping through the night (9+ hours!)
We are in the middle of teething!! They're getting closer by the day but no teeth have broken through
She can push up with her hands and lift her chest
She can sit really well with support but only for a few seconds without support (and then she topples over)
She grabs EVERYTHING in sight!!! And it's a tight grip when she grabs!
She laughs and giggles all the time (Charley is her favorite though)
Her hair is getting lighter and lighter and it's now starting to grow back in where it was rubbed off when she was a baby

Now, granted, Audrey was doing some of these things before she even reached 6 months, but it's amazing to see how much babies grow in that short amount of time!

The only 6 month picture we got that is semi-decent

Then Audrey realized eating the paper is much more fun

The love of our lives!

This past weekend, Jedd and I took off work on Friday and we took Audrey to Ocean City, Maryland for her first official beach trip! We had a great weekend and beautiful 75+ degree weather! It was nice to leave PA behind for a little and just relax. Charley got to come too and he loved getting in the ocean water. We're really looking forward to our week-long family vacation down there in early August!

Outlet shopping wears me out!

Bath time in the sink!

Last time we were here together Audrey was in my belly! Sorry I was squinting so bad-- it was bright!

Jedd and Charley on the beach

The Gardner family

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T14:31:00.005-04:00

Jedd and I spent the early part of Easter doing some not-so-fun things. I had to finish up a grad school project that's due today and Jedd unexpectedly went into work after they had some trouble the day before.

I got Audrey all dressed up and she was such a good girl. As I was getting ready to go, I noticed Audrey's favorite part of her Easter dress was that she could flip it over her head to chew on it. Awesome.

We ate dinner at my parents house and Jedd's mom and my sister both joined us. We forewent the traditional ham and had steaks instead. They were amazing!!! Since I worked the day before and Grandma Gardner watched Audrey, she had already gotten her gift from her--- a white mini rocking chair to put on our front porch with our rocking chairs!! It's adorable and Audrey just loves sitting in it!

Audrey also got an Easter basket from Grandma & Grandpa Howard. Actually, it wasn't a basket at all--- it was a Vera Bradley purse! It's from their new collection and the purse is actually called "Audrey". She loved it!!!

We had a great day with our families and Audrey really seemed to enjoy her 1st Easter!!
Here are some pictures:

Audrey's new rocking chair from Grandma & Grandpa Gardner!

Her new Vera Bradley "Audrey" purse

Her goodies from Grandma & Grandpa Howard

My happy girl

Showing off her pretty Easter dress

She was so happy all day!

Audrey and Mommy

Had to get her the headband!!!

Hope everyone had as much of an enjoyable Easter as we did!!!

RIP Harry Kalas

2009-04-13T14:26:00.003-04:00

Sadly, the Phils announcer, and the voice of the team, passed away today in the pressbox.

The Phils games will never be the same.
RIP Harry.

1st day= SUCCESS!!

2009-04-11T19:12:00.002-04:00

So, as I blogged about before, I'm starting a new job for some extra "fun" money! Today was my 1st day actually working--- although I am DEFINITELY still learning! I am getting paid $7.50/hour and then anything I make in tips is mine to keep and I don't have to claim. Most customers come in for a drink or two, or to golf, or to gamble. Well, since the rain was still coming down this morning I didn't have a huge golf crowd. But there were definitely gamblers!!! I paid out $640 alone in ticket money!!!!

The nice thing about people that gamble (or at least the one's that come into the Legion) is that they tip their bartender WELL after winning. That definitely helped my tips!!! Most money on Saturdays will come from the golf crowd, but clearly that wasn't happening today. I ended up leaving work with $75 in tips. YAAAAAAAAAAY!!! So, figure that on top of $7.50 hourly wage--- I definitely cleared $100 easily on my first day. Not a bad first day at all!!!

I needed a day like this to talk me into doing this. I already made a list of things I'm going to do with my new "fun" money... but it wasn't easy getting up this morning to go in!!! I'm hoping I continue to enjoy it just as much every weekend.

Now I'm just waiting to snuggle my little peanut when she gets home from Grandma Gardner's house!!!!

Let the 5 day weekend begin!!!

2009-04-08T17:09:00.003-04:00

I'm so excited to spend the next 5 days with this beautiful face:

Sleep and a New Job!

2009-04-07T20:39:00.010-04:00

So tonight Jedd has his big sleep study. I've been trying to convince him to go for quite some time because I've been worried about his breathing at night. Awhile back he even woke up me up once because I heard him gasping for air! Hopefully after tonight we'll have some answers!

Tonight I started training for my new bartending job. I'm doing it to earn a little extra money and since I don't teach during the summers, it gives me something to do a few days a week! I was only there for about 2 hours and I earned $6 in tips. Ok, so that doesn't seem like much at all--- but there was only a couple drinking (no food), a man drinking (no food), and a man drinking (with food). So for 2 hours, I was pleased! To start, I'll only be working on Saturdays from 7:30am until 4pm. Jedd is pretty upset since it will damper weekend plans, but it seems relatively easy to get a day off if I need it.

Nothing else really new with us. I have 3 more grad school classes left for this semester! Thank goodness!!! Tomorrow is also my last day of work this week. We have a nice, long 5 day break starting then! Just gotta get through tomorrow and then I get a long break with my baby girl!

Some updates!

2009-04-01T19:32:00.003-04:00

So this week has been one of the craziest weeks. On Monday morning, on my way to work, I got a call saying that one of my former students had passed away on Friday. I was devastated. I taught life skills for 2 years, and yes, I fully understood that our students walked a thin line with their health, but it's still one of those things you NEVER want to hear. 13 years old. It's still hard to believe. Especially since I saw her in the hallway on Friday and we had a nice little chat. I'm very thankful for that chat and I'll hold onto that forever.

I got a new (part-time) job!! I'm going to bartend 1-2 nights throughout the week (I'm hoping only 1) and then on the weekends to make some extra money. My paychecks took a HUGE hit by taking off on maternity leave, so I'm happy to make up some of that. Also, I have taught every summer for the IU and since I have grad school now, I'm unable to do that. So this is a perfect way to not waste away all summer! I'm also looking forward to putting away some money to help Jedd finish our basement. The poor guy wants his man cave sooooo desperately!

Audrey is still growing! I swear she gets longer every day! She's still a little congested so we tried putting a pillow underneath the one side of her crib to help her breath better at night. It's been working great!! She's still babbling away and drooling like CRAZY! Her gums are starting to feel like little bones so we're thinking the teeth are on their way! I'm just hoping she handles it pretty well. For now, she's been great--- just chewing and biting on things a lot! She reaches for EVERYTHING now too. So, if something is in her way, she'll grab it. Time to start being careful what's around her!

She is also getting MUCH better with tummy time! I think now that she's strong enough to lift her head for a substantial amount of time, it really interests her. I'm sad to say I think our bouncer has lost it's "appeal factor" for her though. She really wants nothing to do with it. The swing seems to be her favorite thing again and she's getting too big for it! I'm hoping she starts liking the jumperoo soon! It's sitting in our computer room VERY unused.

I am going to be heading down to Ocean City, MD for 2 weekends in a row! I'm going with my family on Thursday evening until Saturday evening (Jedd is staying home) and then we are leaving the next Thursday (the 3 of us and even Charley too) to go down again until Sunday! I'm really looking forward to taking Audrey to the beach for the 1st time and going shopping at the outlets!!!

Hope everyone is having a good week!!! I know how much I'm looking forward to the weekend!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T17:37:00.002-04:00

Well, almost "wordless"....

Miss Audrey babbling away.....

23 weeks old!

2009-03-25T17:19:00.005-04:00

I can hardly believe it! It's been 23 weeks (or 161 days) since I met my precious baby girl. 23 is one of my favorite numbers (probably because we were married on June 23). Since I've been slacking with the updates, I'll put extra pictures in of peanut today! She is growing like a weed. This past week she's been really trying to babble too. Her voice octave is much higher and she's really babbling away. Mostly it comes out sound like "dadadaddadada" or "bababababa" but she just goes on and on. Of course we're still going through all of the drooling and chewing too. No teeth yet, but I know they aren't far off!

My all-time favorite thing about Audrey is when you catch her staring at you and you glance over at her and a smile just lights up her face! She's so amazing!

So, here she is. My ENTIRE world:

Audrey's 1st St. Patrick's Day:

Drooling everywhere and chewing on everything!

The new talent:

Our happy baby girl:

Blogging Award!

2009-03-17T17:13:00.006-04:00

I just got my 1st blog award from one of my blogging friends, Lea Liz. Check out her awesome blog (and incredibly adorable son, Brody): http://rolandbaby.blogspot.com/

I'm passing this award on to:

Jess: http://jessicalynnmiller.blogspot.com/
Amber: http://outofdifficultiesgrowsmiracles.blogspot.com/

Thanks again, Lea Liz!!!

5 Months Old!

2009-03-15T21:25:00.009-04:00

Miss Audrey turned 5 months old today. Part of me thinks it has flown by while the other part thinks she's been part of my life for much longer. Either way, my life has changed and I have become a better person because of her. Everything in life suddenly makes sense.

What a miracle a tiny life is!

We tried taking her 5 month pictures and I'm sad to say, I think we may be done with these. The one posted above is the ONLY decent one we got out of probably 50 pictures! Audrey is now 100% fascinated by paper. She grabbed the sign, pulled at it, crumbled it, etc. It was hilarious to watch and we got some great pictures of her grabbing it, but none that are really great for her "5 month picture." We'll try again next month and see what happens...

Here she is:

Look at this innocent face....

One Year

2009-03-15T18:49:00.008-04:00

This week marked the one year anniversary of our first ultrasound.

We saw Audrey for the first time on March 13, 2008.

What a difference a year makes....

Lots of updates!

2009-03-14T11:30:00.005-04:00

I've been so bad at keeping up with everything lately! Between grad school and work, I haven't had a lot of free time to update.

I started a workout program on Wednesdays and Fridays after work. Our gym teacher is running it. Wednesday was the 1st day and it totally kicked my butt--- which I need! I was pretty sore on Thursday and then feeling pretty good again Friday. We had our 2nd class yesterday and it was great! I love being able to work out again!

The other evening I had Audrey on the floor playing and Charley was running around. She started giggling hysterically. We grabbed the video camera quickly to capture it! Audrey absolutely adores Charley and everytime he walks by her, she just giggles at him. It's too cute!

Jedd and I are in the process of planning a possible long weekend trip to Las Vegas. We saved enough money to go--- now we just have to look for flights and hotels to see what interests us. We're thinking we may travel in late May. I've never been to Vegas and Jedd went once when he was little so we're looking forward to visiting! I'll keep you posted on if we decide to go!

I'm off to enjoy the weekend with Audrey. I'll update tomorrow with her 5 month pictures!

All I really want...

2009-03-07T11:01:00.004-05:00

... is a Canon Rebel XTI! I am desperate for one! They run (online) for about $500 so my goal is to save that money up so I can get one! I love taking pictures of Audrey but my digital camera can't really do a lot of fancy things. However, this camera can!

Our DJ from our wedding, who we still keep in touch with came to visit on Thursday night. He owns a Canon Rebel and brought it over for me to play with. I love the quality of pictures! Jedd seems to think they look exactly like the ones my digital camera takes, but I don't! I think he is probably going to get me one for my birthday.

Some pictures I took with Dave's camera (excuse how blurry some of them are... I'm still learning!):

Doctor's Visit

2009-03-07T10:45:00.005-05:00

Well, we finally got to see Audrey's doctor for her "4" month checkup! She was scheduled to be checked when she was actually 4 months... but he canceled a day before due to a vacation! I love how they waited until the last minute to call! Then, they couldn't get us in until Thursday, March 5! So now, it became more of a 5 month checkup then a 4 month checkup. Audrey did great though!

Her stats are:

Weight- 14 pounds, 3 ounces
Length- 25 1/2 inches
Head Circumference- 41.8 cm

She is average for weight and above average for length and head circumference. Which brings me to my next point....

I brought up to Dr. Chang how worried I was that she isn't pushing up during tummy time. He said by now she should be able to more frequently. He had me put her on her stomach, and sure enough, she did it right away. He said she may be a little behind but it's nothing to worry about. Worse case scenario is that she might walk a little later. He suggested doing tummy time much more often and telling her babysitter to do it during the day with her as well. So, I guess practice makes perfect! He also said because her head is so big (most be all of those brains...haha) that it is probably harder for her to lift up. She needs stronger stomach and neck muscles to do it. When we got home I put her on her stomach right away and within 5 minutes she was out cold. No wonder we don't get enough practice!!!

Audrey also got 4 shots when we were there. 3 in her legs and 1 that she took orally. She did wonderful! I was slightly worried because at her 2 month checkup she was so shocked when they pricked her that she held her breath. This time she cried right away and only for about 2 minutes, then she was fine! Oh, the power of infant Tylenol!

We won't see the Dr. again until Audrey is almost 7 months old... our next appointment is not until May 11! Before then, she is allowed to begin solids. Jedd and I are looking forward to starting them with her after 6 months!

Some pictures of her battle wounds:

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-04T17:41:00.002-05:00

She did it!

2009-03-02T19:35:00.007-05:00

For the last few weeks, I was really starting to worry about Audrey. She's been having a lot of trouble holding up her head during tummy time (she's fine holding it any other time). It was something I was planning on asking the Dr. during her 4 month checkup, but then he canceled the appointment and we had to reschedule for this Thursday.

Well, tonight she finally seemed to get it! She was doing tummy time and had her head lifted for awhile! It was so awesome. I tried to snap some quick pictures but I was too excited so they turned out blurry and off center. Here she is though:

Then, she found her hands (her new favorite thing) and decided that her arms made a great resting position so that she could suck on them easier!

Good job, baby girl! You amaze us more and more everyday!

Updated blog

2009-02-25T17:46:00.001-05:00

Since I started this blog in the middle of November... and I wrote in my other one since last July, I decided to combine them together. So, I transferred all of my posts on the other blog into this one. It was so much fun going through them and seeing how excited we were for the arrival of Audrey!

So now, you can skim back through to see the last half of my pregnancy :)

Only 46 more to go...

2009-02-25T16:38:00.002-05:00

I'm beginning to realize the little "book deal" I made with myself is almost never going to happen. Grad school has completely overwhelmed me and Audrey is a growing girl (and I hate to miss a minute with her). However, I was able to read 2 books during school with my class. Hey, never said those wouldn't count!

I read:

Culpepper's Cannon by Gary Paulsen
Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn

I'll have to check my lesson plans at school for the dates we completed them!

So, only 46 more to go.....

Gotta have Faith!

2009-02-24T19:29:00.002-05:00

I wasn't sure if I was going to write about this on here, but the truth is, my life has been impacted immensely by this story... so it only makes sense to tell about it.

I followed the blog: http://themcclenahans.blogspot.com/ when they found out their 10 month old daughter had cancer. Little Cora fought bravely for 3 weeks and sadly passed away earlier this month. She was only 11 months old with a whole life ahead of her to live. A bunch of ladies from the "blog world" have decided to make stuff to sell on Etsy.com in honor of baby Cora. All proceeds will benefit the playground they are building in memory of her. Here is the Etsy link:

http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title&search_query=Cora+Paige

So, this brings me to my point. I have never, for one day, taken my baby for granted. When I was 16.5 weeks pregnant, I got a devastating call from the Dr. saying the baby had a 1 in 10 chance of having Trisomy 18. Pretty bad odds if you ask me. The research showed Jedd and I that if our baby did infact have this, there was no way he/she would survive. It was the longest night of my life waiting to hear from the Dr. to find out when our emergency ultrasound would be. We were lucky. And we still are lucky. Audrey was born right on time and is 100% healthy.

The night we got those horrible odds thrown at us, I prayed. I prayed long and I prayed hard. I had already felt the baby moving and we had already bonded. I just couldn't imagine letting go. My point is--- I don't pray often. Is that a fault of mine? Maybe. And you won't ever hear me talk about God or my beliefs a lot, I'm just not that type of person. But I do have faith and I do pray long and hard when I feel that I need someone to look over me. I believe that on May 2, 2008-- my prayers were answered by our baby girl being healthy. I also believe that on October 15, 2008 when she entered this world, our prayers were answered again. A beautiful, HEALTHY baby girl.

Now I pray a lot for Jess and Joel McClenahan and the loss they have experienced. Their baby girl reminds me so much of Audrey with her chubby cheeks. I pray that they find comfort in their memories with baby Cora and that they begin to heal.

If you are interested in purchasing anything from the Etsy sale, thank you! Jedd and I definitely are planning on buying some goodies for our baby girl. We are lucky and we are blessed. And we are THANKFUL.

Oh, those baby blues...

2009-02-24T16:24:00.004-05:00

I am just obsessed with Audrey's baby blue eyes! I really thought by now they would have changed colors (we were definitely all betting on green or hazel). She's just so beautiful!!!!

Audrey loves hanging out by mommy when mommy is on the computer! She's been sitting here the entire time chatting my ear off! Oh, that leads me to another funny story... I was awoken this morning around 5am by Audrey talking non-stop in her crib. She eventually talked herself back to sleep, but it was hilarious!

I snapped some quick shots of her today (she kept getting really excited and making big eyes when she saw the camera):

Weekend Recap

2009-02-22T11:49:00.006-05:00

It's hard to believe another weekend is gone!

Jedd and I had a really fun time together yesterday. We had a date night out! With a few people from work, we went to see a Hershey Bears hockey game! It was an awesome game-- we even saw a fight--- and the Bears ended up winning with 1 second left in OT. We then stopped by Aroogas for a few drinks.

Of course, we missed peanut the entire time--- but she was having a good ole time with Grandma Gardner!

Today we're being lazy and tonight we're heading over to my parents for a nice dinner.
Audrey tried out her Baby Einstein collection this morning. At first, she really seemed to like the DVDs!

but, it didn't take her long at all to get worn out....

Back to the grind---er, I mean work--- tomorrow!

Funny girl!

2009-02-17T16:41:00.003-05:00

Who says babies can't learn to imitate people? Since she started smiling, Audrey has loved when you make "farting" noises in her face. Well, on Sunday afternoon Jedd and I sat down to eat lunch and it all began.... Audrey learned how to do it! It's hilarious! She's also very serious about it! She has now officially mastered making the noise all by herself! We are just too proud :)

Audrey after she had "mastered" her noise!

Weekend Recap

2009-02-17T16:38:00.005-05:00

Audrey turned 4 months old on Sunday! I can hardly believe it. We've had our baby girl now for 1/3 of a year! On February 12, we also celebrated our anniversary of finding out we were pregnant! Audrey has officially been part of our lives for over a year now! Yay!

Aly and Curt brought baby Bryce over to visit on Sunday too. We got some great pictures of the kiddos together. I think they really liked each other. Bryce gave Audrey a nice punch to the face and Audrey returned the favor by kicking Bryce in the head! Such love! They were even holding hands (and we didn't even pose them that way)! We are so excited to watch our little ones grow together.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T20:39:00.006-05:00

Audrey's 1st Valentine's Day was great!! She slept from 11:00pm to 9:00am! What a champ! We got up and drove over to BJ's to pick up some more formula for her. Then, we had a nice lunch out at Applebee's.

Tomorrow we are having visitors! Aly and Curt and bringing baby Bryce over to play. I just know Audrey is so excited. I can't wait to get new pictures of the kiddos together!

We had a brief photo shoot today of Audrey for V-Day. Of course she'll have another one tomorrow too because tomorrow she is 4 months old! AHHHH! I swear I have no idea where the last 4 months have gone?!

Enjoy the new pictures :)

Audrey is Giggling!!!

2009-02-11T20:10:00.005-05:00

Daddy was trying to show Audrey how to pull herself up so that she will learn to roll over. Audrey thought he was hilarious!!!

Snow Day!!!!

2009-01-28T19:32:00.003-05:00

Between last night and tonight we got a few inches of snow and then it turned into the wintry mix---- so NO school today!!!! As much as I'd rather have a 2 hour delay instead, it was so much fun playing with Audrey all day!

Speaking of Audrey--- she slept wonderfully last night! We've been trying to establish some sort of routine for her and it's been going really well. Her bedtime is now always between 9:30 - 10 (although if her bottle is due around 10 we feed her and then put her down). She's been great with it and even if she's wide awake when we put her in her crib, she settles down and falls asleep before long! Last night we put her down around 10:15 and she didn't wake up until 5:30 for a bottle! I fed her and put her back down and she didn't wake up again until 9:30! Oh, I love the sleep I am getting!

I'm back to trying to catch up on my TV shows!

Lazy weekend!

2009-01-17T12:28:00.004-05:00

Today Audrey and I are being super lazy! Unfortunately, her Mommy and Daddy let her swing run out of batteries and have none in the house! Audrey has been going through swing withdrawl for 3 days now! OH NO! I keep telling Jedd we should just shell out the money and get her a swing that plugs into the wall! It'd be worth the investment. He insists we don't need another swing and just need to buy rechargeable batteries. Hey, as long as he keeps up with them, then fine. Meanwhile though, I'm dealing with a very sad little girl....haha

Audrey and I decided not to do anything today. Okay, more like I decided, but still. Audrey either 1. likes to be held or 2. likes her swing but I can't get anything done with choice #1 and choice #2 is out of commission!

I have some great new pictures of Audrey I'll post soon! We took her 3 month pictures on Thursday (can you believe it's been 3 months already?). They turned out great! She's getting bigger by the second---- I mean it! I also took her to the Dr's on Thursday for her 3 month checkup. She is average for everything (length, weight, and head circum). Right on track! He also let us know that she can't have any solids until 6 months old. I really thought 4 months was the time to start, but apparently not. So we're halfway there! Audrey still gets formula during the day and breastmilk in the evenings and she's doing well on both! Yay for us! Her new stats are posted to the left.

Hope everyone has a nice weekend!

POTW Winner!

2009-01-16T16:43:00.000-05:00

I'm proud to say Miss Audrey won 2nd place in the Picture of the Week contest for the Mommy board I post on (www.thebump.com).

She won for the category of 'New Year's Baby'.

Yay Audrey!!!!

3 months old!

2009-01-15T18:23:00.001-05:00

Our little Audrey Ann turned 3 months old today. 1/4 of a year already.
Oh, the memories and love she has given us! How lucky are we?!

Happy 3 months, baby girl!

We took peanut to the Dr's tonight for her 3 month checkup!
Her stats are:
Weight: 11 pounds, 15.5 ounces
Length: 24 inches
Head circumference: 40.2cm

Growing like a weed!

2 down, 48 to go!

2009-01-06T22:14:00.010-05:00

Well, I added a new book to my list today! I finished reading Marley & Me tonight. I had to use a million tissues and hug and kiss Charley a bunch! It was soooo sad! I'm really looking forward to seeing the movie now. It is a must for me to always read a book before seeing the movie.

50 Books in 2009:
1. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer 1/1/09
2. Marley & Me by John Grogan 1/6/09

I'm hoping I can keep up with 1 book/week but I have a feeling I'll slow down more when grad school starts back up next week. On another note, I received New Moon today in the mail (the 2nd book in the Twilight series) and I am really excited to read it! Gotta keep up with my middle school kids and the popular books they are reading! ha!

Hello 2009!

2009-01-05T19:42:00.005-05:00

So, needless to say I have absolutely NO time for updating this! Audrey keeps us busy, busy and we wouldn't have it any other way!

Today was my first day back from the holiday break and the kiddos were craaaazy! Of course, it was to be expected. Jedd and I had a great Christmas with our new addition and we were happy to ring in a new year too! We feel that we were extremely blessed in 2008 and are excited to see what 2009 holds!

I have decided that instead of a New Year's Resolution, I would instead decide on something I actually WANT to do this year. So I've got it: I'm going to read 50 books this year. Ok, so my original goal was to read 100 but Jedd told me I'm not practical. And he may be right--- we have a newborn daughter, I work a full time job, and I'm going to grad school part time. So, I adjusted my goal.

And the best part? I've already added 1 book to the list (and I'm currently working on another):

50 Books in 2009:
1. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer 1/1/09

I'll leave you all with a picture of our darling daughter (who is growing by the minute). We go in for her 3 month checkup next Thursday so I'll update with her stats. She is now a babbling fool--- trying to talk all the time! She also just started slobbering/drooling constantly and is chewing on anything in site (we're thinking teething may be coming our way).

2 months!!!

2008-12-16T19:12:00.012-05:00

Audrey turned 2 months old yesterday! I can hardly believe it! We took her to her 2 month checkup and she had to have 4 shots (3 in the leg, 1 that she drank). She did awesome--- well after the initial shock and 5 minutes of screaming bloody murder. She was calm the rest of the night and has been fine since!

Audrey's stats are:
Weight: 10 pounds, 15 ounces
Length: 23 inches
Head circumference: 38.5 inches

She was above average for length and average for weight and head circum! Yay Audrey! She's growing so big!

We switched her formula on Sunday. I read up on Similac and found that a lot of babies have extreme gas issues with it. We actually bought a cheap generic brand at BJ's and *knock on wood* she has pooped everyday and has not had gas at all!!! YAY! She seems so much more happier and relaxed! Not to mention we got a 60 oz can for $19.99 and Similac was $28 for a 34 oz can!

I went back to work last week. It has been pretty smooth returning! The kids are readjusting to having me back (I think my sub was a little too lax with them). It's also nice to get out of the house everyday and to converse with adults! Jedd drops Audrey off at the sitters everyday so I never have to deal with the sadness of leaving her (which is probably a good thing). She's been doing really well there and we're really happy with her!

Hope everyone is enjoying the holidays! I still have some shopping to do but not enough time to ever get it done! Christmas will be here in 9 days!!!! AHHHH!! I'm posting some of the pictures my sister took of us for our Christmas cards! Enjoy!

7 weeks!

2008-12-03T12:59:00.008-05:00

Our baby girl is 7 weeks old today! I cannot believe it! Time has just flown by since she entered the world! My maternity leave is officially over on Monday. Part of me is really sad because I'll miss spending the day with Audrey, but another part of me is really excited to get back into a normal routine. Plus, I'm only back for 2 weeks and then Christmas break!

I had my pp checkup yesterday. Everything is completely back to normal and I have about 5lbs to lose! I was pretty excited to hear that!

I took some Christmas pictures of Audrey the other day. I'm still going to have my sister take some of the 3 of us, but I figured since I was bored I'd put her into a little stocking and see how she did! They turned out really cute!

Sleeping Through The Night

2008-11-29T09:47:00.004-05:00

Sleeping Through The Night (STTN)--- seems like it's been years since this has happened! I didn't sleep very comfortably during the last month or so of pregnancy and then of course Miss Audrey arrived and that took sleeping right out of the question!

However, I believe a small miracle has arrived. Audrey slept from 10pm - 4am on Thursday night. I really didn't even want to mention it to anyone because I was sure I would jinx it. But, I told everyone anyways--- I was too excited not to! Last night, Audrey slept from 10:30 - 4:30am. Yes, you read that correctly. Two nights in a row. I seriously can't believe it!!!! I have woken up both of those mornings for her feedings feeling like I got a full night of sleep. Then I get to go back to bed for another 3 hours until she wakes again! I really feel rested and I certainly needed it!!!

I started getting the Christmas decorations out last night. It is one of my favorite times of the year to decorate!!! Jedd and I are either putting up the tree tonight or tomorrow and I can't wait!! I'll make sure I post pictures when all of the decorating is done!

Hope everyone has a nice weekend! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-27T19:05:00.013-05:00

We had a great holiday today! Audrey was very fashionable for her very 1st Thanksgiving!!! We even put her little swing right next to the dinner table so that she could "eat" with us! I told her next year will be even better when she can actually eat the great food!

Jedd and I are super tired now and just relaxing for the rest of the evening! I hope everyone had a great holiday!!!!

We can officially start decorating for Christmas tomorrow--- YAY!!!!

Enjoy the pictures of Audrey on her 1st Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Eve...

2008-11-26T15:44:00.017-05:00

Getting ready for Thanksgiving today! I'm so excited for Audrey to experience her 1st Thanksgiving. Ok--- so maybe I'm just excited to put her cute little outfit on her (let's be honest, she won't know it's Thanksgiving anyways.)

Today Jedd and I went to the store to get all the goodies we were responsible for. Our families are doing Thanksgiving together again this year but this time it's at our house! We actually requested this because it's so much easier for people to come to us with Audrey being so little yet! We divvied up the food and everyone had specific things to bring! We are mostly in charge of providing the place and making sure it's clean (which I have yet to do).

Tonight is the unofficial annual West Perry reunion! For some reason every Thanksgiving Eve most WP grads go out and meet at the Stone Mt. Inn in New Bloomfield. I'm still trying to convince Jedd to go with me and even Grandma Howard offered to sit!

I had to go into work yesterday for a brief IEP meeting and then went out with coworkers after that. It was so nice to get out and socialize but of course my mind always wanders back to Jedd and Audrey. I just feel so incomplete when they aren't around!

Have I mentioned Audrey is starting to smile? It's the BEST thing in the world! It doesn't happen all the time yet... but when you make funny noises at her, she'll give you a quick one! It's absolutely the cutest thing in the world but also the hardest thing to catch with a camera--- here are my attempts!

I'll update tomorrow with pics of Audrey in her cute little outfit! Hope everyone has a nice and safe holiday!!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

I DID IT!!!

2008-11-25T12:45:00.000-05:00

Excuse me while I brag for a minute, but I FINALLY fit into all my old pants!!! YAAAAY! I stepped on the scale last night and I'm still about 6 pounds heavier than when I got pregnant, but I'm getting closer....

I have a meeting at work today so I figured I'd go upstairs to try and figure out what to wear. This has NOT been a fun scenario since Audrey was born. Nothing fits and although I'm close to pre-pregnancy weight, it has been miserable trying to look "presentable" without looking "frumpy." I tried on a pair of gray pants I had, and they fit. NO WAY! Then I dared to try on my black pants, they too fit! YES!!! I go back to work in 2 weeks so this is important because I don't feel like spending money on a whole new wardrobe! I am thrilled!!! I know the pants will fit even better when I stop eating junk and lose those last 6 pounds!

Today is also important because it marks 6 weeks since I went into labor. 6 WEEKS?!?! Where has time gone? My little angel is now starting to smile and interact with people and I couldn't be happier! I do hear of an evil "6 week growth spurt" that leaves babies fussy and miserable and I have to say the last two days have sort of reflected that. Audrey has not been a happy camper--- and she's fed, changed, clean, dressed comfortably, etc. Today seems like she is finally getting back to her self (we can only hope). She also seems to be in-between sizes. Her newborns are getting tight and her 0-3 month clothes are swimming on her!!! She looks like a little gangsta when we put them on! Hopefully soon she'll start fitting them better because she has a closet full of awesome clothes to wear!!!

EXHAUSTED.

2008-11-20T11:44:00.000-05:00

I remember when I was pregnant, and nearing the end, I thought I couldn't sleep very well. I was sooo uncomfortable and I couldn't wait until Audrey was here so that I could sleep better. HA!!!! Audrey is an awesome baby--- trust me, we are very blessed. She never cries unless she is hungry or needs changed. She's also very content with sitting and staring at anything you put her in front of. However, the last week or so she has been having horrible gas. She screams in pain. And it's not one of her normal cries either. It's a cry that makes you wince because you feel horrible for her. We have started giving her gas drops following feedings and it has seemed to lessen the pain a little. We also brought this up at her one month checkup and her doctor said it's normal for breastfed babies. UGHHHH!!!

So anyways, last night was not a good night. She was fed, changed, and tired (she could barely stay awake and was yawning constantly) but the gas got her again! She did finally have a nice poop in the early morning and it allowed us to sleep until 8:30ish. I just wish she'd feel better again!!!

On a lighter note, yesterday Audrey was 5 weeks old already. It makes me sad to see how fast time is flying by. She's getting so much bigger and she's becoming more attentive during the days! I am dreading returning to work in 3 weeks. I don't know how I'm going to go a whole day without her! I also don't know how I'm going to survive a day of teaching when I'm this exhausted!!!! Fingers crossed for tonight!

One month appt

2008-11-18T10:43:00.001-05:00

We had Audrey's 1 month checkup yesterday---- it's so hard for me to believe she's been here for a month already! Her stats were:

Weight- 8 pounds, 15.5 ounces; Length- 22 inches

One Month

2008-11-15T21:55:00.000-05:00

My baby girl is one month old today! I can hardly believe it--- where has time gone? In more exciting news, Jedd returns tonight from his hunting trip. I'm so thankful he will get to see peanut on her one month birthday. And I'm just thankful to FINALLY have him home.

Happy one month, baby girl!

2 weeks old

2008-10-31T20:41:00.001-04:00

Wow-- my life has completely changed. And it's not that it's a bad thing-- I just don't have time for much anymore! Audrey keeps me on my toes. She is still running a pretty tight 3-4 hour schedule with feedings and diaperings. She also has been much more alert during the days now, so I don't have a lot of time to get stuff done!

We went to her 2 week checkup appointment today. Audrey is now 7 pounds, 5.5oz; 20 3/4" long; head circumference- 36cm. (At birth she was 7 pounds, 3.2oz, 20" long, head- 33cm). Our girl is definitely growing!!! I also put the newborn outfit on her that we brought her home in-- and it fits!!! She hasn't really fit into newborn clothes (they sort of just swim on her) so I was excited!!

Newborn Photo Shoot

2008-10-28T10:02:00.000-04:00

I had my sister come over on Sunday morning to take lots of newborn photos of Audrey! She did an amazing job... of course, her model is so beautiful anyways!

Now, I get to design her birth announcement!

Audrey's Birth Story

2008-10-19T08:47:00.001-04:00

Audrey's Birth Story

We went my 40-week checkup on October 14 (Audrey's due date). Jedd and I both left work early to spend some quality time together. I guess we just had that "feeling." We went to the mall and some shops and just walked around enjoying each other's company for what we figured could easily be the last time with just the two of us.

My appointment took FOREVER. They were running behind on patients so we just waited and waited. Finally, I got to go back and see Dr. Manning. I told her I'd love to be in labor ASAP. She said she was on call at the hospital that night and the next day. She checked me and I was still about 4cm dilated and almost effaced. Audrey had moved up a little in the birthing canal though. She was now at 0 station. She asked if I wanted my membranes stripped again and of course, I did! It was the closest I'd been the week before so I figured maybe this time was a charm! Plus she guaranteed they would be stripped "better" than the week before. It really didn't hurt that much this time around either! She told us before we left that when my contractions got between 5-8 minutes apart that night, to call and come in. She'd break my water if it didn't happen on it's own. I couldn't believe she was practically guaranteeing us labor (and I also almost didn't want to believe it since they promised us the same thing the week before).

We ended up going out to eat with my mom at Red Robin. I started having contractions there. They were about 10 minutes apart. I couldn't believe how fast this was happening again. They continued the whole way home and I told Jedd I was going to get a shower to see if they continue. Sure enough, they did! We watched TV and slowly the contractions went away. I was so upset! My parents called me at 9:30 to see if it was time to go to the hospital yet and I said that I gave up and that it would happen when she was ready! I was so frustrated that once again, it didn't work!

Not even 5 minutes later, we were getting ready to go to sleep and they started again. Every 5 minutes on the dot. We timed them from 9:35 to 10:30 and they were very consistent. Jedd finally decided to call Dr. Manning. Sure enough, she told us to come in right away. I was scared, anxious, excited, EVERYTHING! We were getting dressed to go to the hospital to perhaps meet our baby!

We got to the hospital around 11:30. They put me in triage to check me out. I was still only 4cm and my contractions were NOT consistent anymore. I was so frustrated and I thought everyone would think I was just lying! The nurse suggested that we walk for an hour to see if I progressed. If not, they were going to make me go home! I was pissed. We walked the hospital floors over and over again. My contractions started again and were very consistent happening every 4 minutes. I told my mom and Jedd that if they didn't admit me, I was going to jump out the window. I was uncomfortable and they hurt, and there was no way I was going home!

I got checked again at 1am. I had progressed to 5cm already!!! The nurse insisted that after 5cm most women go very quickly. She even told us to call family and friends around 2:30am and tell them to come to the hospital. She figured Audrey would be here by 7:00am. I was admitted to room 319. Contractions continued at 4 minutes, then would go back to 8 minutes, then 5 minutes-- nothing consistent. We walked and walked and walked. They'd come back strong and then go away again. I was upset because none of the nurses, midwives, or doctors seemed to come to check on us. I knew that if someone would just break my water, it would probably happen quickly!

Finally, at 7:30 I got a new nurse, Kala, who was great! At 9:15 am, she found the midwife, Barb, and had her check me. I was still 5cm! I begged Barb to break my water, because I just knew it would speed stuff along. At 9:30 am, Barb ruptured my membrane. The sac was very strong. Within 5 minutes my intense labor began.

The first contraction after my water broke hit me and I almost died. I couldn't breathe, I was hyperventilating, etc. It was so intense. I couldn't even believe I thought all those contractions before were uncomfortable-- they were NOTHING. I was in serious pain. I labored for 2 hours trying to breathe, and crying, and squeezing Jedd's hands. Contractions were only 3-4 minutes apart, so I had a break in between, but then they were horrible again. I decided to forgo my natural delivery in lieu of drugs! It was not my plan, but even the midwife said with how tense I got during contractions, it might really help me relax which in turn would help me progress more. I got into the whirlpool tub for over an hour and I was really able to control my breathing in there while waiting. Finally the nurse came and said that I needed to get out of the tub, the anesthesiologist would be there when I got out. After my next contraction I attempted to stand up and right away had another one. I almost died!!! When I got back to the hospital bed he still wasn't there and I got very annoyed! A few swear words definitely came out of my mouth!

Around 11:15 he arrived to give me my epidural. It is policy that nobody can be in the room except a nurse, the anesthesiologist, and the patient while the epidural is administered. I held Kala's hand and squeezed hard because I had two more contractions while he was putting the needle in me. The epidural did not hurt at all. He told me within 3 contractions I'd be pain free. Sure enough, by about 11:35ish, I was in HEAVEN!!! I could still feel my contractions, but they felt more like pressure then pain. I could still feel my legs and lower body too which was important to me because I wanted to be able to feel to push.

All of our parents left to get something to eat since I was finally comfortable. The nurse and midwife both said it can take up to 1 hour to dilate just 1 cm so she figured the baby would come around 4-6pm. I got to relax and even dozed off for a little. Barb came to check me around 12:45. I was 9.5cm already! I dilated much faster than anticipated! She told me that when I got the sensation to push, to let her know, but that she would be back around 1:45 to check on me. Not even 1/2 hour later, the sensation came. I always worried I would never know when to push, but you do!! You just have the biggest urge!!!

They got everyone in the room right away--- Jedd, my mom, Kala, and Barb. It was around 1:25 pm. I was told to push during every contraction. I'd push for 10 seconds, quick breath, push 10 seconds, quick breath, push 10 seconds, relax. The only problem was, after the first contraction--- they started coming every 2 minutes instead of 1 minute. They gave me more potocin and by 1:30 I was having a contraction nearly every minute.

I pushed like there was no tomorrow! I wasn't going to mess around! I had Kala counting for me so it made it easier to concentrate on just pushing. Barb placed my legs perfectly so all my pushing effort was going right to the baby! It was great and it felt good to push! After the second contraction, everyone could already see Audrey's head! They said she had a full head of hair!! By 1:55, I could feel her head!! It was so crazy! Finally I gave a few last big pushes (by that point she was so far down the birth canal it was hard to stop pushing) and she was born at exactly 2:03pm. Our lives were forever changed.

Barb put her on my chest immediately. I couldn't believe how beautiful she was!!! She had a full head of dark brown hair!!! She was perfect--- which is incredible considering all the scares we faced during the pregnancy! Jedd got to cut her umbilical cord and I made him go with her to get cleaned up, weighed, measured, etc.

I would not change anything--- the aches, pains, etc. for her! All 9 months of pregnancy and 4 1/2 hours of intense labor were more than worth it! She has completed us and our family and we are head over heels in love with her!

Audrey Ann Gardner came into this world on Wednesday, October 15, 2008 at 2:03pm. She weighed 7 pounds, 3.2 ounces and she was 20 inches long.

She's Here!

2008-10-16T19:51:00.000-04:00

Audrey Ann Gardner
October 15, 2008
2:03pm
7 pounds, 3 ounces
20 inches

PERFECTION!

STILL holding on...39 weeks pregnant

2008-10-09T16:40:00.000-04:00

Well, no baby! Bummer! We completely felt like we were given false hope on Monday! I lost my MP and had the whole bloody show and everything on Tuesday morning--- still nothing! I went back to work Wednesday becuase I can't keep sitting around wondering when she'll come. My principal's sister has been a labor and delivery nurse for 40 years so we decided to give her a call and get her thoughts.

She asked me what my stats were--- so I told her I'm now 4cm dilated and 90% effaced. She asked if they told us anything about the baby's position and I told her we were at +1 station. She said, "OH MY!" Then she told us that she actually would have told us by that prognosis that it would have been within 24 hours too. So apparently it's just Audrey being stubborn holding us up! All the odds are in our favor for a delivery anytime! She did tell us though that with being that far progressed already, when my water breaks, I need to get to the hospital ASAP. Scary!

I really enjoy being back at work--- it keeps my mind off thinking about it all of the time! At this point, I'd love for Audrey to make her entrance this weekend. It would be the most convenient time for all of us. Plus it would give me another day of work in tomorrow, so that's good. I promise I'll keep everyone posted with any news!!!! It can't be too far off....

A little about Audrey at 39 weeks:

The lanugo has mostly disappeared, but you'll probably find a bit on her shoulders, arms and legs and in those protected little bodily creases. It will vanish completely on its own in time.
Her lungs are maturing and surfactant production is increasing and fully prepared to take on the outside world!
Your baby doesn't have much room to move and certainly mom agrees! Did you imagine 8 months ago that this wee one would be able to hook a toe in your ribs while elbowing your bladder? She certainly has grown!
Her body continues laying on the fat stores that will help regulate her body temperature after birth. In addition to normal fat, she is accumulating a special "brown" fat in the nape of her neck, between her shoulders and around organs. Brown fat cells are important for thermogenesis (generating heat) during her first weeks.
Your infant's weight is around 7.25 pounds and length is 19.9 inches.

COULD THIS BE IT?!?!

2008-10-06T18:40:00.000-04:00

Went in today for my 39 week checkup. I figured I'd be about 2 cm, maybe 80% effaced-- but I was not getting my hopes up more than that. I had my blood pressure taken (which is always around 115-120/70ish) and I was joking to the med assistant that I'd love for her to say I have high b/p so I could have the baby. Well, she took it, then took it again, and it was high!!! At first it was 160/75 then she got 140/73. I couldn't believe it!!!!

So the midwife comes in--- it was first appt with her because she just started and I said right away to Jedd-- I love her! She checked Audrey's heartbeat and couldn't believe how low she was (meaning position-- heartbeat was perfect). She then did an internal--- and before that-- she gave us all kinds of "tips" to speed things up (she knows I do NOT want to be induced). So right before the internal, she tells us if my cervix is favorable, she's going to get stuff going for me! I was shocked!

Well, I was already 3-4 cm dilated, 80-90% effaced, and Audrey is already at +1 station (or "in the basement" as she says)... so she got stuff working. Completed stripped my membranes (OUCH) and then stretched my cervix to a definite 4 (double OUCH). Immediately, I started cramping and contracting!!! She said with how I was already progressing and with her doing that, she gives us 24 hours tops. She said by 2am tomorrow morning I'll be in full labor. Ummmmm, what? AHHHHHHHHHH!! She said for me not to go within the next 24 hours she will be shocked!

So we rushed home, and now we're going nuts trying to prepare ourselves-- emotinally, mentally, physically! We're going to bed early---- so we'll see. Hopefully this is it!!! Jedd is thrilled Audrey may come on the "7th" of a month-- his absolute favorite number!!!! I just cannot believe tomorrow at this time I may be holding my little girl FINALLY!

I'll keep everyone posted!!!!

38.5 weeks pregnant

2008-10-04T10:39:00.000-04:00

Well, I am now 38 weeks and 4 days pregnant. 10 DAYS UNTIL AUDREY'S DUE DATE!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot believe it---- I remember when I was excited when I had 200 days to go, then 100, then 50, now only 10.....

I would like to think my body is preparing well--- I've been having contractions for the last 2 days--- just not anything "timeable" yet. Lots of pressure and contractions-- let's hope I'm progressing!!! I have my 3rd internal on Monday at our 39 week checkup so we shall see. My goal was to make it through work this week and I did that! Every day I stay at work is one more day longer that I get to stay at home with her before going back in early December! I'd like to get it as close to Christmas/New Years break so I only have to return to work for a week or so before that long break!

A little bit about Audrey at 38 weeks:

If she is the "average baby," she weights 6.8 pounds and is 19.6 inches long.
Have you noticed she hiccups a lot? Because there is no air around her, those breathing exercises cause amniotic fluid to get into her windpipe. The result? Hiccups!
Your child's intestines are accumulating lots of meconium. Meconium takes on the role of being your baby's first bowel movement -- removing the waste that has accumulated.
She may have a full head of hair now -- an inch or more long! Don't be surprised if it's an unexpected color. Some blond couples have dark haired babies; some dark haired couples have red-haired babies; some couples have babies with only peach fuzz! It may just persuade you to take a closer look at your family tree!
Circumference of head and abdomen are about the same size for your baby. No wonder it's so hard to get a t-shirt over a newborn's head!

I've dropped!

2008-09-29T21:28:00.001-04:00

Maybe I did last week and just didn't notice (I forgot to take pictures last week) but when I compared my 35 week belly vs. my 37.5 week belly picture, I couldn't believe the change!!! She's heading down south--- yay!! My 35 week picture is on top, 37.5 week picture on the bottom!

We have our 38 week checkup tomorrow with the horrible midwife AGAIN so I'm sure we won't have ANY valuable news!! UGH! I'll keep everyone posted though. Fingers crossed for an arrival ASAP!

Over 37 weeks pregnant

2008-09-27T09:15:00.001-04:00

Well, still no Audrey....

I haven't updated this in a long time, and I forgot to take a 36 week pregnant picture last week--- oops! Maybe I didn't completely forget...but I'd like to never remember this uncomfortable time! Once I have Audrey I'm sure it won't matter... but for now, I am miserable!

I really hope she decides to come early. I mention to her all the time that it's okay to come now! She's nearly 38 weeks gestation in there, so she'd be fine!!! Hopefully she listens soon! We're all patiently (or as patient as we can be) waiting her arrival!

Audrey (37 weeks fetal development-- which was Tuesday):

This week, the average size is about 6.3 pounds now and 19.1 inches length.
She is official full term now but can still benefit from extra days in the womb.
Your baby continues to practice breathing movements. Isn't it amazing how she can breathe "under water?"
Grasp is firm now. It won't be long until you'll feel that strong little fist confidently grasping your finger (or tightly clenching your hair)!
A few weeks ago, your baby would move her eyes toward light. Now she turns towards light outside the uterus.
" As the uterine wall stretches and thins allowing more light to permeate, she develops definite daily activity cycles. You will want to be sure to establish good patterns yourself at this time, thus encouraging them in your child. Ever heard of a baby getting his days/nights mixed up? Now's the time to try to avoid that!

We also met with our sitter last night and finalized everything with that. Her name is Marisa and she lives right downtown New Bloomfield so it is very convenient. She has two children of her own--- a 3 yr old and a 2 yr old and then she watches another little boy who is 1. Audrey will be her last child to watch and should get plenty of TLC since she's going to be so much younger. Jedd and I are very worried about leaving our baby with someone we barely know-- but no matter who we pick, we would feel that way. I do like that Marisa is so close to my parents if anything would happen. Audrey will have other little kids to interact with which is something we both wanted too--- just not in a daycare setting. I'm sure she'll be fine though, and it's a relief to get that out of the way!

Fingers crossed that next time I post I have my beautiful little girl to post about!!!

Still pregnant

2008-09-19T22:32:00.000-04:00

I haven't updated since earlier this week--- but I am officially 36.5 weeks pregnant now! I can't believe it. This week it finally hit me that she can come ANYTIME. I had my 36 week checkup on Tuesday. Baby is measuring perfectly! I also had my 2nd internal--- which I was curious to have since I had progress already at 35 weeks. Well, there is MORE progress!!! I was 70% effaced with a very very soft cervix, 1cm dilated, and Audrey's head was very low. She had no trouble feeling it at all! Now this news has only made me more anxious!

Meanwhile, I am absolutely UNCOMFORTABLE. I have barely complained at all throughout this pregnancy, and now I feel like it's all I do! My back hurts all day, my hips have so much pressure on them, I waddle when I walk, my feet are swollen, and my stomach is uncontrollably itchy! I just want Audrey to be the official full term on Tuesday--- and then I am going to start trying ALL the methods to get her out of there!!!

We did go to the hospital on Thursday night and we pre-registered so that Jedd doesn't need to worry about filling out any paperwork when I'm in labor. We also watched the mandatory SBS video and had the car seat lesson-- so we won' t have to do either of those then either. I have a few more things I need to wash this weekend-- but our hospital bag is packed and ready to go! I also got an email from Target today that our glider has shipped-- which is awesome because it had said backorder until October 14. That is the last major thing we needed for Audrey's nursery! I cannot wait to hold my baby girl in my arms--- but I especially cannot wait for her Daddy to see her and hold her!

Less than a month to go

2008-09-15T19:32:00.000-04:00

Well, it's been a week since the hospital visit and little Audrey is still holding on!! I feel so much better though!! As of tomorrow, they say Audrey's 100% ready to go--- lungs developed and all! It feels good to know it can happen at anytime now and we wouldn't need to worry.

I am hoping she holds off for a little longer though. Jedd and I are going tomorrow night to get the remaining items we need from Babies R Us. Then on Thursday, we are going to fill out all of the paperwork for the hospital and we are going to watch the mandatory movies. That way when we have Audrey we don't have to worry about staying extra time to do all that. Not to mention, the paperwork is unreal--- and I don't want Jedd to have to worry about that while I'm in labor.

Yesterday Jedd's mom threw me another baby shower for his side of the family. It was so nice! We definitely got a lot more stuff we needed which was awesome! Everyone has been so overwhelmingly generous and supportive-- we feel so lucky!!

And yesterday was September 14--- meaning only 1 more month to go until her due date!!! It's so hard to believe but I think this past week it really started to sink in to Jedd and I. Next month at this time we could be holding our little girl!!! I am officially under the 30 days to go mark too...YAY!!!

35 weeks pregnant

2008-09-09T17:30:00.001-04:00

I had a very pleasant surprise waiting for me at work today--- my long term sub started!!! She'll be there to shadow me until I leave on maternity leave. My stress level immediately dropped from 100 to about a 5!

Well today is officially week 35! And I officially have only 35 days left.... I kept thinking about holding Audrey all day today. Don't get me wrong, I am very happy she is still "baking" in there, but I just can't wait to hold her and kiss her!! One week from today I will be begging her to come out!!! People at work seemed to think that being 50% effaced already was pretty good--- but I am not getting my hopes up at all! I've seen girls online who have no progress and the next day have their babies. There's just no telling...

A little about Audrey at 35 weeks fetal development:

The average baby weighs almost five and a half pounds now.
Most babies born now will survive and without many long-term problems.
Fat accumulations plumps up the arms and legs this week. These layers of fat will help her regulate her body temperature. They also provide those cute little dimples on elbows and knees!
Her hearing is fully developed, so be sure to talk to your daughter. Do you find yourself speaking in a high-pitched tone? That's okay since some studies show babies respond better to higher pitches.
It's getting crowded! Your baby is now taking up most of the uterus and you may even feel like your chest has run out of room! Soon enough though, baby will move down and you'll be able to breathe easily again (just not walk so easily! Ha!).
Your baby is 18.2 inches long and weighs 5.3 pounds.

1st Trip to Labor & Delivery

2008-09-08T20:02:00.001-04:00

Well, it has been quite the eventful day! Today was our first (and hopefully last until she's ready) visit to L & D. I woke up this morning at 5:30 with severe cramps. I haven't had any cramps since menstrual cycles before Audrey was even conceived. But these were like period cramps times 1,000. I drank a lot of water this morning to try and get them to go away. Around 9:00 I was urged to call my dr. to see what to do. It took FOREVER to hear back. So, I started timing my contractions/braxton hicks. They were anywhere from 10-15 min apart and about 15 - 45 sec. long. This would be considered "untimeable."

Finally, my Dr. called back and said, as soon as your contractions get to be 10-12 min apart call me back. I told her they were already pretty close to that so I was urged to go immediately to the Birthplace. Meanwhile, I never once had a feeling that "this was it." So we went through with my school birthplan, and I was driven to the hospital.

I was hooked up to a bunch of machines to check Audrey's heartrate and my contractions. They were not consistent enough to be in active labor--- thank God!!! Audrey was great though--- she went wild kicking and then got the hiccups for about 10 minutes and they were really loud on her monitors! My urine tests came back and pretty much this is all the result of a severe bladder infection. Not sure when this might have happened, but apparently it can cause all of the above symptoms. I was sooooo relieved to know Audrey wasn't making her entrance today--- we didn't even have hospital bags packed!!! I did have my first internal exam---- OW----- and I am already 50% effaced at 1 day shy of 35 weeks. I was sort of surprised to hear that--but again it could take forever to progress! I had a stern talk with Audrey that she is NOT to make her entrance until September 23 or later (37 weeks).

Yesterday I had my first baby shower! It was sooooo much fun! Of course everyone spoiled Audrey rotten. We got so many amazing things for her. I truly have never felt so blessed in my life. It was also incredible to see everyone after so long apart! Jedd and I spent the evening putting all her stuff in her room and trying to organize it! One more shower next weekend with Jedd's family and then we can go out and purchase all of the remaining things we need!

Over 34 weeks pregnant

2008-09-03T21:29:00.001-04:00

I was officially 34 weeks pregnant yesterday!! yaaaaaay! Here are some things about Audrey's development:

Your baby acts completely like a newborn, with her eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping. You may also find her settling into more of a routine for sleeping & awake times.
She has learned to blink. She can also see more clearly when there is a bright light on your stomach and probably has the outline of all your organs memorized!
Antibodies from your blood are being tranferred to her. These immunities continue to build until birth. Then breastmilk will add even more protection against disease.
Your baby may have already turned to a head-down position in preparation for birth. If she is your first baby, she may be settling into the pelvis with her head pressing against your cervix.
Fingernails have reached the end of the fingertips now. She may scratch her face even before she is born!
Your little one's length is 17.7 inches and weight is 4.7 pounds

I also did some fun little thing online to see what Audrey would look like--- basically by adding Jedd and I's pictures together:

Maternity Pictures are HERE!

2008-09-01T11:28:00.000-04:00

We both have the day off today since it's Labor Day!!! It's nice to get to spend time together so much this weekend!! It is now officially September---- one month away from October---- one month until Audrey's birth month. AHHHHHHH!

We got to see our maternity photos today!!! They were taken by Kara Clouser at Little Buffalo State Park and our house. Her web address is: (http://www.inspiredimagestudio.com). They are all still copyrighted to her. Here is a peek at a few of them:

As you can see, there are so many amazing photos!! This isn't even 1/4 of them. If you'd like to view the rest, go to: http://www.inspiredimagestudio.com and click on Online Proofing.

Our name is: gardner082308

password: audrey

Jedd's Surprise Party

2008-08-31T19:27:00.000-04:00

The party was a success!!!! Jedd was so surprised that the long planned "coed baby shower" was actually his 30th birthday party! I have received about a million "thank yous" from him since yesterday. We got to see so many of our friends and family which was nice! Our wedding DJ (Digital Doctor) came and DJ'd the party--- he also took so many amazing pictures for us too! The weather was beautiful (hot though) but no rain!!! I honestly don't think we could have had a better day!

Jedd and I at his 30th bday party

On another interesting note, I woke up this morning and had my first set of contractions! I was so scared that Audrey was planning on making an early debut, but thank goodness they stopped! It's getting so close that I guess we just have to start being ready all the time now. In just 3 weeks she will be full term. I think my goal by next weekend is to have my hospital bag packed----- just in case....

I'm excited for the next upcoming weekend--- to see so many of my friends I haven't seen in ages for our baby shower. Hopefully we have another nice day! For now, I am going to relax--- we had such an exhausting weekend! I need the extra day tomorrow just to recover!

Back to School

2008-08-27T17:26:00.000-04:00

Today was the first day of school with the students back. I loved my new job!!!! The students seemed great and it should make for a pretty fun year!

We received Audrey's 1st Thanksgiving outfit in the mail yesterday. I ordered it off Ebay for 5.00 and the lady even sent a 1st Halloween shirt with it for free! It's soooo cute. I'll post pictures soon! I'm getting so excited. Every little ache or pain I have I keep wondering if this is it (even though I'm hoping she stays put for another 4 weeks).

We have such a busy weekend coming up. I'm so excited!!! I still have a lot to do yet but I'm sure it will all work out!!! Then I get to see so many close friends on the 7th which I am even more excited for!!! Everything definitely seems to be happening fast!

33 weeks pregnant

2008-08-26T22:32:00.001-04:00

I can't believe it's been a week since I updated! I have been very busy now that school has started and I started a new job this year!

We went to the last part of our "Baby Boot Camp" series tonight. We learned about feeding, diapering, taking care of umbilical cord, and a few other things. Both Jedd and I were so exhausted that all we could think about was getting home! We won't have another childbirth class until the 2nd weekend in September.

Audrey is now 33 weeks gestation!!! Only 7 more weeks until her due date! I can definitely feel how big and strong she is getting. We are anticipating her arrival every day!!

Some stuff about Audrey at 33 weeks:

Amniotic fluid is at its highest level during your pregnancy.
Your baby's head size has increased 3/8ths of an inch due to rapid brain growth.
Neurons and synapses are developing in huge numbers -- forming connections in your baby's brain will give her the skills she needs to thrive as a newborn. This week, she may be able to coordinate sucking and swallowing with breathing.
While most of her bones are hardening, her skull is quite pliable and not completely joined. The bones will be able to move slightly to make birthing easier.
Your baby takes intermittent deep breaths -- of water! That's okay, though since she gets oxygen from the placenta. This breathing exercises muscles and encourages her lung cells to produce more surfactant (a protein essential for healthy lung development).
Your infant is now 17.2 inches long and weighs 4.23 pound

32 weeks pregnant

2008-08-19T22:24:00.000-04:00

Today was a very busy day! First off, I am officially 32 weeks pregnant!! YIKES! I could be holding my baby girl in just 5 short weeks! Jedd and I went to our first "Baby Boot Camp" class tonight and loved it!!! It was a million times better than our first class. We learned how to comfort baby (5 different ways), how to soothe and calm, what to use/do when baby is sick, how to tell if baby is sick, etc. It was so great!

I have to say, my husband is quite the baby swaddler! It was fun to practice too! Next week she said we're practicing a lot of diapering stuff and we'll get to try stuff out too.

A little about Audrey at 32 weeks:

Audrey is up to 3.75 lbs and about 16.7 inches long
She is now gaining about 1/2 lb per week
She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair
Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth

Another great day

2008-08-18T20:23:00.000-04:00

Today was fun!!! We had our 32 week check-up bright and early! My belly was measuring perfectly- 32 centimeters for 32 weeks pregnant (well... tomorrow anyways). I'm so glad!

Afterwards, Jedd and I spent the day shopping. We ended up finally spending the money to get bushes/shrubs/plants for our front walkway. We do have a "baby shower" coming up here in less than 2 weeks! Jedd is outside right now planting everything. It looks goofy because they are all such tiny plants right now, but I think it will look great when they grow.

I'm back to work tomorrow! Boo! I actually don't have to go back until Wednesday, but I decided to go in tomorrow for a few hours to get stuff done. Then, Jedd and I have our first "baby boot camp" class. I'm so excited for that!

I need to update house pictures, Audrey's nursery pictures, and stuff we got for Audrey soon! We've had a lot of changes! Oh, and my shower is finally scheduled for September 7. YAY!!!!!! I can't wait to see everyone!

Getting antsy

2008-08-17T23:22:00.000-04:00

Well I just got done eating an awesome brownie sundae!!! Yummmmmmmm!! Audrey has been in my ribs every day now!!! I poke at her little feet and she kicks me back! I'm sure I annoy her. That's okay because her being in my ribs annoys me too. Tomorrow I have my 32 week check up! Jedd and I are going to that together and then going shopping to get some stuff to finish up the inside of our house!

I was on The Nest Baby boards tonight and noticed a LOT of people having babies around 35 weeks!!! Um, I had to mention to Jedd that for us that is in 3 weeks! AHHHHHHHHHH!!! I really want Audrey to be at least a 37 weeker, so fingers crossed!!! I just think it's crazy that we are getting that close. If Audrey is born full term (September 23) she will be here in only 5 short weeks. And I couldn't be more excited!

I start back at school on Wednesday. I have 3 days of lovely/boring inservice this week. Not looking forward to that--- but I am grateful that it will keep me busy and before I know it Audrey will be here and I'll be off again with her!!

2 months to go

2008-08-14T17:22:00.000-04:00

I am officially due 2 months from today!!! Coming down the homestrech now...

Started getting some weird pains again last night--- but dr. insists they are just my ligament loosening to prepare for her head to fit through the birthing canal. Ouch!

I did something fun today online--- I filled out a small questionaire to see what they thought about baby--- I did NOT enter baby's sex or anything, and this is what came up:

Madame Zaritska's reading

Madame Zaritska, our resident clairvoyant, wants to help you prepare for the arrival of your child. Here she does her best to predict certain aspects of your labor and birth experience.

What she senses for you:
The day you deliver, outside will be sunny. Your baby will arrive at night.

After a labor lasting approximately 12 hours, your child, a girl, will be born. Your baby will weigh about 8 pounds, 10 ounces, and will be 18-1/2 inches long. This child will have green eyes and a lot of hair.

But there is more. I sense that you wonder if you will have a difficult time during labor and birth.

31 weeks pregnant

2008-08-12T09:37:00.001-04:00

I am 31 weeks pregnant today! AHHHHHHHH!!! That means that if Audrey is born full term (37 weeks) I could technically be holding her in 6 weeks. I'm so excited!!! I now officially move into my 8th month of pregnancy! It some ways it feels like it's taken forever to get here and in other ways it feels like this has all happened so fast.

A little about Audrey this week:

The rate of physical growth slows down just a bit, but even though she doesn't get much longer, she will gain a lot of weight the rest of the pregnancy
Fat continues accumulating. This layer of fat turns her skin from red to the rosy pink she will have as a newborn
Calcium, phosphorus, and iron are being stored and her bones are growing and hardening
Audrey is 16.2 inches long and weighs 3.3 pounds
Her brain enters another period of rapid growth, producing hundreds of billions of new nerve cells!
She may move to the rhythm of music. Studies with heart rates show that she prefers some types of music to others--- already
Lungs are the only major organ left to complete development. These last few weeks can be vital-- with each day increasing your baby's abillity to breathe on her own.

Audrey's weight is comparable to carrying 4 navel oranges (over 3 lbs)! No wonder Mommy's back is hurting more and more everyday!

Home Improvement Weekend

2008-08-11T21:20:00.000-04:00

We were super busy all weekend getting stuff done around the house. All of the bathrooms are officially updated with new fixtures, faucets, mirrors, etc! Such a relief! I'll take and post pics soon.

I ordered Audrey's lampshades last week and found out that the order had been cancelled. I tried calling the company and never received anybody after 20 minutes of waiting. They refunded my cc though so who knows. It was such a good deal too--- now if we want the same lampshades, it'll cost double in price! They are so expensive!

I also ordered Audrey's valance for her window and her diaper stacker from her Bubblegum bedding set. Both could only be bought online and since I"m worried people won't get stuff online from our registries, it was no big deal. I found them cheaper than Target too (at Bed, Bath, and Beyond) so it was a good deal.

Jedd hung an extra shelf in Audrey's closet today and I need to get to Walmart to get baskets to put her mittens, booties, bibs, etc. in them. I also need more hangers because this girl has TOO many clothes already! We do have a nice variety of sizes which helps!

Besides "home improvement" weekend nothing else is new with us! We've just been so busy getting our house the way we want it. It's exciting but a lot of work.... (just ask Jedd)!

TGIF!

2008-08-08T16:19:00.000-04:00

So today I went into school to get my classroom ready for the new school year. It's so hard to believe summer is almost over. I can remember back in June hoping this summer went fast because summer being over meant Audrey was coming really soon! And she is!

Already made it to 30.5 weeks pregnant! I can hardly believe it. Jedd and I went to our 1st childbirth class last night. It was such a waste of time. We knew everything they talked about. We were also the most pregnant people there. Everyone else was due in December, January, or even February. Totally our fault for waiting until the last minute! The next class (in Sept) should be more informative though with breathing techniques, etc.

We also have a 2-week "Baby Boot Camp" class starting on August 19 too. This is a class they really recommend--- lots of informative things to learn-- diapering, feeding, tricks for baby, etc. Jedd is really excited about this class.

This weekend we plan on getting some more stuff done in our house--- it's almost completely done the way we want it! We only need to save up lots of money so we can replace all the sink countertops in the bathrooms and the countertops in the kitchen. Of course Jedd wants his basement done soon too!

Audrey has had her foot sticking out of my right side all day today--- it's so funny looking! She's still being a busy girl in there--- and I know she has to be running out of room to move. That's all that is new from here! Olympics start tonight and with both of us being athletes in our lives, we are excited!!!

30 weeks pregnant

2008-08-05T19:18:00.001-04:00

OH MY--- I am 30 weeks pregnant today!!! I can hardly believe it and I have said it 100 times today trying to believe it. I'm excited, overwhelmed, thrilled, nervous..... we only have 10 weeks until we meet our little girl! Jedd and I got a lot more done in Audrey's nursery tonight. We bought a floor lamp and cute little lamp for her and we're waiting for our lampshades to get sent to us (they match her Bubblegum bedding). We also hung the first picture in there--- which tells all about her name. I also got other pictures ready to hang--- we're putting mine, Jedd's, and Audrey's baby pictures in frames on the wall. We still need to find a nice white mirror for in there--- but it's coming along. I also got online tonight at Target to see if I should just order our glider--- but saw it was backordered about 2-6 weeks. AHHHHHHH! I'm going to hold off since we haven't had a shower yet!

I had my 30 week checkup today. It went really well. I explained and asked about the aches and pains I've been having-- all normal. The dr. was a little concerned over a few episodes I had while we were on vacation. My heart just started racing, I had trouble breathing, and it was really hard to relax. He took bloodwork and said if this should happen again I need to go to the ER right away. I'm glad I asked... He measured me and I was right on track for 30 weeks--- he says "the small side of average". Of course I was worried (since Trisomy 18 babies are small) but he said I should be very thankful she's on the small side of average-- that's exactly where I want her for birth too. So that made me feel better! He also said there are no indications of anything with Trisomy 18. YAAAAAY! Audrey's heartbeat today was 157--- steady and strong. Of course, I knew she was strong and growing--- her punches and kicks are starting to become very uncomfortable!

So a little about Audrey in the womb:

She is nearly 3 lbs now!!!
Her head is getting larger to accomodate a period of rapid brain growth.
A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her. As she continues to grow, the amniotic fluid will decrease.
She spends time opening and closing her eyelids. Her eyes can move from side to side following a light source. She may even reach out to touch the light.
Early lanugo is beginning to disappear. Her own hair may begin to appear.
Toenails are entering their final growth stage.
Bone marrow is now in charge of red blood cell production.
She now has the capability to produce tears--- within the womb!
By the end of this week, Audrey will be about 15.7 inches long and weigh 2.91 pounds!

Relaxation

2008-08-04T22:52:00.000-04:00

The beach was amazing (and I'm sure Audrey enjoyed her first time on the beach)!

We're back

2008-08-04T17:17:00.001-04:00

So this is long overdue! We had a wonderful time last week at the beach! We relaxed a lot, rode jetskiis (for me--- slowly), went out to eat, to the beach, etc. Of course, like all vacations, it went way too quickly!

Before we left for the beach, we ran to the mall quick to get some odds and ends. I stopped by Motherhood Maternity because I needed a white shirt--- but I saw a dress I liked. I didn't say anything, because I didn't "need" it-- but Jedd pointed it out. He said he thought I should try it on. So I did. And we both loved it! So I bought it and I'm going to wear it to my baby shower.

Here it is---- perfect with my hair color!

Audrey has been growing a lot lately! Every morning I wake up and can't believe how big my belly is getting. Of course, I always get the comments about how small I am for being due in only 2 months-- but to me, I'm huge!!! I think Audrey really liked our little vacation too because she was very active this week! Her punches/kicks are getting stronger and stronger! I feel blessed everytime I feel her. It was hard to believe that the next time we'll be in OCMD, it'll be with her. We can't wait!

I have my next check-up (30 weeks) tomorrow in the morning. Jedd is coming with me and he hasn't been there in a few appointments since they aren't that important anyways. I'm excited!!!! The last ten weeks is approaching...

Hiccups

2008-07-24T10:16:00.000-04:00

Jedd and I had such a great night last night! I have been receiving my weekly pregnancy updates from several different sites, and they all claim that for the past few weeks, I could feel Audrey have hiccups. I just didn't believe it. I didn't know how you would differentiate between movement and hiccups and I guess I just figured it wasn't possible. Then, around 8ish, I felt the hiccups for the first time!! It was a completely different type of feeling than when Audrey moves. The hiccups were coming from right below my belly button--- which would make sense since she is head down in the womb! I was so excited--- definitely a teary eyed moment! She hiccuped continuously for about 2 minutes. Jedd tried to be able to feel them from the outside, but he wasn't able to. It was truly magical!

Then, we decided to watch our favorite pregnancy DVD movie (In the Womb) again. The first time we watched it together when I was around 8 weeks pregnant we were amazed. We started the DVD at week 26, and they recommended that Dads put their head on the Mom's belly to hear the heartbeat of the baby. Jedd wanted to try right away. He was able to hear Audrey's heart through my belly! It was so cute. Then Audrey was kicking like crazy and he said it was such a cool sound from the outside because she was "swishing"--- probably through the fluid. Jedd is now 100% hooked on hearing her heartbeat so I'm sure we'll be doing this everynight!

Such a great night-- and we are so thankful for our blessing!

28 weeks pregnant

2008-07-22T09:15:00.001-04:00

28 weeks pregnant today! The weeks just seem to be flying by...

Audrey's development:

Hair on baby's head is growing longer.
Eyes are completely formed now.
Your baby's body is getting plump and rounded.
Muscle tone is improving.
Lungs are capable of breathing now
Your baby weighs in now at 2.2 pounds and is 14.8 inches

We've had quite an eventful week! Jedd put all of Audrey's nursery furniture together this past weekend. I took time to move all of her stuff back and we set up the furniture the way we want it! So exciting.

We went to the Ship fair last night and ate lots of yummy food. We're both just really looking forward to Friday and heading to OCMD!!!

Holy Heat!

2008-07-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

All I can say today is, HOLY HEAT! Exactly why Charley and I spend most of our days inside with the Central Air. I always told myself I wouldn't be pregnant over the summer! Now I can remember why.... last few months to go and I'm dying!

Jedd and I have someone coming tonight to look at our basement. We're going to get an estimate on how much it will cost to finish it! Jedd is dying for his "man's room" and I'll be excited to move Hank the deer out of our sitting/computer room.

Jedd's job for the weekend is to finish the nursery! Grandpa Howard and I picked up the rest of Audrey's nursery furniture (her crib and hutch were on backorder) yesterday. We're going to put everything together and set up her room the way we want it. I'm so excited! Pictures will be posted on her nursery page ASAP.

Another Ultrasound

2008-07-16T21:45:00.000-04:00

Went to the hospital today for a free ultrasound! Our u/s tech had called because the hospital was thinking of purchasing some new equipment and she wanted to try it out. She asked if I'd be her fetal model. I was so excited! We arrived at 10 and spent about 1 hour between the two machines seeing Audrey. Of course, she was stubborn as always and would not let us get a view of her face! She continues to put that hand in front of her at all times. We did get to see some great heart, feet, hands, neck, abdomen, and side of head views! I'm just hoping Audrey knows to put that hand down during delivery!!

You could definitely see that Audrey is putting on more fat. Her arms and legs were thicker than when we saw her last on June 30. Just keep growing in there baby girl!!

We changed some things on our registry tonight. We decided instead of the pink/green stroller, car seat, high chair, and pack 'n play we would register for more gender neutral things. We went with a Graco Travel System (car seat and stroller) in green and tan colors (Catalina). We also registered for the pack n play in Catalina as well. We are obsessed with the high chair we picked---- it's a design by Graco called G Galore. There are capital G's all over it--- perfect for baby Gardner! It's also gender neutral so it can be used for Gardner #2 years down the road!

27 weeks pregnant

2008-07-15T15:11:00.001-04:00

I can't believe it--- I am finally in my third and FINAL trimester! It seems like it took forever to get here! I just can't believe that in less than 3 months we'll be holding Audrey in our arms!

According to babycenter.com:

This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.

Audrey is compared to the size of a head of cauliflower--- 2 pounds!

3 months to go!

2008-07-14T14:34:00.001-04:00

3 MONTHS TO GO!!!!! I cannot believe Audrey's due date is exactly 3 months from today!!!