37 weeks

Well, here we are.  The first tiny step of our incredible journey to parenthood is nearly complete.  FULL TERM!

There are many perks to reaching this point: Not worrying about a preterm baby, knowing the time really is almost here, and cherishing every little moment, knowing the baby you feel within will soon be in your arms.  Also fantastic?  Being able to say "Any day now!" when people ask how long, and not being offended when they offer it up first.  

This is such an exciting time, knowing our lives are about to change forever.  I find myself loving on the pups more than usual, wishing they could climb in bed with me and never leave my side.  They will be great fur siblings, I just hope they know we're not trying to replace them, just add to the love train that is the Cole Family.  

And with that, let us take a look at what else is going on these days...

How far along?  37 weeks

Maternity clothes?  Is that a joke?

Stretch marks?  A couple more.  We've been growing like weeds!

Sleeping?  Yes, but not the kind of sleep I'm used to getting, ha!  I typically fall asleep around eleven and wake up every hour, sometimes every thirty minutes.  Getting comfortable is difficult, but I'm used to it.

Cravings?  Speculoos!  We had to pick some up over the weekend.  It's definitely the most unhealthy craving I've had during pregnancy.  I also crave watermelon, pickles, a dish we make called creamy kale pasta, coconut anything, Indian food, chocolate milk and mango varieties of Snapple.  Yeah, I could eat aloo gobi for every meal...

Aversions?  Most foods.  I'm feeling more like I did in the first trimester where most everything seems unappealing.  It is incredibly frustrating because I want to eat healthy for my bug, but the thought of nearly anything besides my cravings sounds revolting.  

Other symptoms?  Since the baby dropped, there has been more pressure on my pelvis, which is not too comfortable.  I also pee every half hour - not exaggerating.  I've also been having CRAZY dreams!!!  Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and all I want in the entire world is  Big Mac or hot fudge sundae.  Or both!  I dream about fast food and things I would never normally want to eat, and then wake up with a voracious appetite.  This is usually when I turn to Matt and kindly ask if he could bring me a glass of chocolate milk, and all is well with the world. 

Best moment of the week?  Hitting full term!  I now know if I went into labor, we could get down to business at home.  We also met with Alexa yesterday and she said Nugget looks great and seems to be seven pounds - WOAH!  The size of this child is insane to me.  S/he isn't even born yet and is already three pounds bigger than I was at birth!  Looks like Nug is going to take after Papa :)

That's it for now.  I may update every week from here on out, but then again, I may not.  Or baby may come tomorrow, who knows?  Until then, here's a photo of us taken yesterday :)

Why we're doing what we're doing...

Matt and I are like any expectant parents.  We have spent the last few months planning and anticipating our child's arrival, making sure everything is in place, discussing names, and making decisions on how we plan to go about this whole parenting thing.  There are the obvious decisions like breastfeeding versus formula, which car seat is best, and how to prepare our fur babies for their new brother or sister.

But for Matt and me, there were other decisions that had to be made.  For example, we decided to forgo  a nursery and instead co-sleep.  Co-sleeping is when your child(ren) sleep in the family bed instead of away in a crib or separate room.  In most countries around the world, co-sleeping is the norm, as families don't understand abandoning a baby after months of being a literal part of its mother.  It also significantly reduces the risk of SIDS when practiced properly (in Japan, a co-sleeping country, SIDS isn't even known of by the majority of people).  

We also decided to include baby wearing, or the attachment of the baby to a parent or caregiver at all possible times, as part of our early parenting.  Again, practiced in much of the world, baby wearing allows for parents to bring their baby along to slowly acclimate to the world in which it is born.  After being inside its mother for months, many believe it is in the child's (and mother's/father's) best interest to  create that bond that is so easily thrown aside in the Western world.  I must say, I am beyond excited to put this into practice, as Matt and I feel we have mastered the Moby; at least, the kangaroo hold :)

Matt recently brought up the issue of vaccines, so we have spent time debating/researching that, as well.  There is an excellent book that is completely free of bias and extremely informative called The Vaccine Book by one of the pediatricians of the Sears family (LOVE them!).  

Then there other bits.  Should we raise the child vegan like Mama or pescetarian/pescatarian like Papa?  Pacifier or thumb?  Parent or child-led weaning?  To circumcise or not? How do we explain the differences in Mommy and Daddy's spirituality, or lack there of?  These are decisions I feel many parents must discuss in preparing for baby.

But there was one decision that Matt and I actually decided upon before we were even married that has received the most criticism.  Years ago Matt and I watched an incredible documentary called The Business of Being Born.  It sparked our interest in natural and home birth versus conventional hospital deliveries, and we, as we are known to do, began research.  Between the two of us we've read ten books on the subject matter, many of which were completed before conception.  It became clear to us after reading these books, along with separate data searches, that we would be interested in a natural delivery.  No, not just a vaginal delivery.  The event must be free of medical interventions, so long as Mom and baby were healthy, to include no epidural, pitocin, forceps, the like.  The only way we could ensure we'd have a provider on the same page as us would be to deliver at home.  

Again, before even conceiving, we interviewed doulas (birth assistants) and midwives (professionals who offer care to women during pregnancy, during delivery, as well as after birth).  We found the most amazing women to assist in this journey, and have learned so much from them in the last seven or so months.

But sadly, though we've put in the hard work and dedicated ourselves to providing the best care for our child, there has been criticism.  We typically don't discuss our birth plan unless asked, but upon questions of whether we are delivering at the American or German hospital, it eventually comes out.  Matt and I are then met with looks of disbelief, many of which are coupled with a sense of irresponsibility on our part when the people before us, judging, have not done as much as read an article on home births.  And so, we are often backed into a corner, feeling compelled to spout off statistics and time after time end with "Everyone has a different journey" or "What's best for us may not be best for you".  

The hardest part is when those who are supposed to support you the most call your well thought out and years-in-the-making plan "ridiculous" and "irresponsible".  As if on a whim we decided to be "different as always".  

So Matt and I shut down.  I went through a period where I was not so much confused by our decision, which I knew was best, but confused by the lack of understanding and doubt in our competence.  

Matt, as always, reassured me we are doing what's best.  As I get nervous about the big day, a completely normal reaction to ANY birth experience, he tells me how proud he is that I am willing to bypass the drugs which bring welcome relief for a birth that is safest for our child - his child.  Sometimes I can just swear the man is an angel.  

And so I grew up.  Just like that.  My attitude turned from one of a crushed damsel to a strong ass woman with resolve.  Matt is right - we am doing what's best for our child.  I would never put our child in danger, and I, we, trust our providers.  We have armed ourselves with knowledge, knowing also that sometimes medical interventions are necessary, and we are completely open to that.  But that's not likely to be the case.  

Overnight I became a Mama Bear even more connected with my body and soul and disconnected with anyone/thing associated with negativity.  I decided to no longer feel ashamed of the incredibly responsible and  thoughtful decision I, along with my partner, the father of my child, have made.  

After all, in our experience, those who have passed judgement don't even know what a midwife is/does.  So if you don't know, don't judge.  Simple.

But don't go getting the impression we're angry.  Yes, that emotion surfaced, but it also got it's ass kicked during our journey to enlightenment.  We are so blessed to have had such a healthy pregnancy.  I know we've tried to do everything we possibly can to ensure our baby remain healthy.  More than ever, I eat to fuel my body and my baby.  I've seen a chiropractor since 14 weeks who has significantly reduced the impact pregnancy can have on one's body.  She has even assisted in preparing my hips/pelvis/sacrum, something I have definitely noticed (as Matt says, "your hips don't lie").  And what she has done to reduce round ligament pain - the woman is a miracle worker!  I have also been blessed enough to schedule the occasional massage to help with tight muscles, as well as a reiki session to balance mine and the baby's energy.  Yoga has also been a godsend, along with swimming.  In my opinion, one should do everything they possibly can to prepare for this time.

 Now we have passed into a phase of elation for the event that is to come.  Not only are Matt and I stoked out of our MINDS to welcome our little girl or boy into the world in the next few weeks, but we are looking forward to the birthing experience.  Yes, I know it is no day at the spa.  However, the bond that Matt and I have will grow only stronger through this experience.  I am so lucky to have a partner not only willing, but wanting to be a part of the entire event.  Without him, I don't know how I'd get through it!  I mean this quite literally as his role is irreplaceable; from working with me through positions to helping catch the baby.  

I see I have wandered off topic in my manifestation of woman/motherhood.  The point of this post is to give a little insight into our experience.  And while I look forward to updating this after the birth of Nugget, I thought I'd start by sharing a little bit of the prenatal bit provided our midwife.

Alexa started coming once a month and typically just spoke with us about our experience/concerns, what to plan for, what not to eat, symptoms to expect, and so on.  Though we initially saw an OB as well, and our visits lasted 10 minutes or so, just to do an ultrasound and maybe some blood work.  Our visits with Alexa last around two hours and always include a urine check ( PH, protein, glucose, etc), blood pressure, doppler (observing baby's heartbeat), and a physical check of the baby, as well as myself.  She measures the baby after feeling around for the head and sweet little booty, and then does the math to estimate the weight.  As of yesterday (34/35 weeks) she thinks the baby is 6 lbs!!  WOAH.

There was also a time where I was having frequent Braxton Hicks contractions, so she recommended I take a magnesium at bedtime (or when they flared up) and gave me a homeopathic oil to treat it immediately.  She also took blood yesterday to check for Hep B and performed a Strep B test.  Alexa always inquires about my symptoms, and wants to know it all.  If I ever have questions or concerns (and I have definitely had questions!) she asks that I call her.  There has never been more than a few hours time pass that she hasn't called me back.  

Yesterday we went over about twenty different positions for labor and delivery, and she asked me to start drinking an herbal tea to prepare my cervix, uterus, and other necessary organs for delivery.  On game day, she'll observe and take copious notes about my activity, performing a doppler every half hour or so.  When delivery comes, she'll observe and tell me when it's time to "reach down and pick up" my baby, as if I'll make it through crowning without knowing.  

Alexa is also trained in crisis management, and has oxygen as well as other essentials on hand in the case that there is an emergency, though in her fifteen years of midwifery she has called an ambulance just a few times.  I love how intuitive she is for so many reasons, but it is even more important during these possible times, as she is well-known for transferring well before there is an emergency.  In fact, the only times there are have been emergencies are when women have defied her advice.  Suffice it to say, I trust this woman.  

After the birth, she stays for an hour to make sure all is well, and then checks up on us the next day along within the following days and weeks.

We also have a doula, Tara, who is trained in assisting mothers and their partners before, through, and after the birth experience.  She has also helped Matt and me with positions, tutored us on cloth diapering, addressed any questions I've had, and had given us so many goodies in preparation.  Tara is also a certified lactation consultant and will stay with us after the birth until the baby latches, also checking up with us within the days and weeks after.  Just like Alexa, anytime I need her, she's there.  It's quite an amazing concept in comparison to conventional medicine.

And that's pretty much that.  

Here are some photos from yesterday's visit with Alexa:

 Here, Alexa is feeling and measuring the baby.  Nugget's head is down, spine/back on my right side, and feet poking left, right above my belly button.  I knew there was some action happening there!

 Measuring the belly

Here, Matt and I are practicing a position whilst Pace photobombs.  And yes, he's always this excited during positioning practice!

33 weeks

Nugget and I sure have been growing a lot, lately.  For a few weeks my Braxton Hicks were so intense that I didn't do much of anything.  Thankfully, my midwife, Alexa, gave me a homeopathic oil (Toko Oil, or contraction oil) that pretty much nips those little guys in the bud.  Braxton Hicks, or "practice contractions", are necessary in massaging baby and getting her/him ready, as well as the 'ole uterus, for the big day.  Some people don't even notice they are having them, but others, like myself, do.  It's nothing to be concerned about, but because the frequency of mine were brought on by activity, I decided to take it easy for a bit as I got used to other symptoms.

On Saturday was Baby Cole's shower, and we are so thankful to all the co-hosts - Sarah, Brett, Tressa, Lindsey, and Katie - as well as all of our friends and family for making it so special.  I had a ball, and Matt even joined in on the fun later (pics to come).

How far along?  33 weeks

Maternity clothes?  Yes!  Though I am actually wearing more pre-pregnancy clothes now because of the weather.  Thank goodness for maxi dresses and skirts!

Stretch marks?  A few

Sleeping?  I've been sleeping a lot better now that I'm able to be more active during the day.  I find I sleep better the days I swim or do yoga.  I also feel that getting used to the big belly and hourly restroom breaks are becoming more normal, thus not so irritating.

Cravings?  FRUIT!  Watermelon is my absolute favorite.  I've also been consuming my body weight in grapes, bananas, and strawberries.  Other cravings include strawberry cupcakes, Thai and Indian food, Speculoos, and Sno Biz (which they don't have over here!!).  And of course, chocolate soy milk is always a favorite :)

Aversions?  Nothing new or too crazy.  There are more things I can't eat due to discomfort than things I don't want to eat, ha!

Other symptoms?  Same as last time.  Braxton Hicks, backaches, headaches, fatigue.  It may sound miserable, but I don't feel too bad.  In fact, most days I feel just perfect (knock on wood!).  Though I think heartburn may be sneaking into the picture :/  I'm starting to notice a trend with tomatoes (NOOOOOOO!).

Best moment of the week?  Our shower :)  I know I have the best friends in the world, but it always surprises me just how many people care about us.  Because of these friends we are able to give our baby more than we could ever imagine - and spoil it!  We are forever blessed.  Another great moment was resuming my life!  After three weeks of lying around, I finally was able to attend yoga class and start swimming.  By the way, floating/swimming in a pool during pregnancy is nirvana.  Hands down, the most relaxing experience I've had in a while. 

 33 weeks - YAY!

 Brett and me

 Matt painting my belly :)

 Brett starting off the painting

 Love it!  

Matt is so excited to become a Papa, and loves the baby/belly so much.  He's the greatest!

29 weeks

Hi there, folks!  We have made it to the third trimester - WOAH!  With every passing day and week, the excitement (yes, misspelled it in the photo to follow, oopsy!) builds.  Matt and I both are stoked beyond belief to meet our little one.  And though it often confuses people when I say this, I'm even looking forward to the birth.  What a life changing experience that we will remember forever.

How far along?  29 weeks :)

Maternity clothes?  Hells yes

Stretch marks?  Maybe a couple?

Sleeping?  Ha.  We are currently in the 29-31 week growth spurt (hopefully it doesn't last that long!), so the growing belly and aching body makes for quite an adjustment.  I've heard it only gets worse, but I'm sure once I get a little accustomed to the even bigger belly, it may get easier.  Turning every five minutes or so gets a wee bit annoying.  At least it's preparing me for being up with baby!

Cravings?  I don't have much of an appetite these days, and honestly find it quite difficult to eat.  I have to set reminders on my phone, even for the middle of the night!  I do enjoy fruit, mostly grapes and nectarines, and though I haven't had it yet, watermelon!  I also love, as always, chocolate soy milk; I'm just drinking copious amounts these days :/  Soy yogurt and granola is another thing I don't mind eating.  I've also enjoyed our special mac and "cheese" with ketchup, as well garlic toast with "cheese", kalamata olives, and marinara. And last night, I woke with a crazy craving for Sprite!  I NEVER drink soda, but the craving didn't leave me.  Matt brought me small bottle after his softball game this morning, and after a couple sips I was satisfied, yet left with an upset belly.  Oh, and I'm still drinking pickle juice :)

Aversions?  I can't think of anything specific.  Matt hasn't had tuna in a while, so that's fabulous!  I don't know if it's an aversion, but I haven't been craving cookies or cakes or anything like that lately, like I did in the second trimester.

Other symptoms?  Where to I begin?  With Braxton Hicks, I suppose.  I'm just getting used to my new body ( I feel there are two or three big turning points in pregnancy, body wise).  At first, I really enjoyed the occasional BHs.  However, after an extra long walk the other day made them more frequent, it lost a bit of its magic.  They are back to normal after rest and warm baths (and sunshine!), but they don't have the charm they once did, he he.  It is great practice to breathe through them, though.  I'm also becoming more and more uncomfortable.  When sleeping, I flip sides every few minutes, and when sitting I also have to move every few minutes.  It's not the worst thing in the world, but not entirely fun, either.  Then there is fatigue, headaches, and dizziness.  It's a bit like the first trimester with additions.  There is also the heartburn which is just beginning for me, so I guess I shouldn't complain about that.  Or anything, really.  Every time I feel uncomfortable I just remind myself how lucky I am to be a part of this experience.  

Best moment of the week?  A couple!  The first would be alien belly.  Baby's movements are finally able to be seen from the outside!  I think Matt got more excited about this than feeling the movements.  The next would be leaking boobs!  For those of you who might think this is too much information - chill.  It's completely natural!  Breasts are for feeding first and foremost, after all.  I first noticed this when I was seeing photos of Matt as a baby for the first, and wondering if the baby will look more like him or me.  That's when I felt a little wet, and saw I had leaked through my shirt.  I showed Matt, and he thought it was awesome!  I think he said something to the effect of, "Well, we know they're working!"  What an exciting moment :)

Breastfeeding in Combat Boots

I plan on breastfeeding exclusively.  Science willing (as Matt would say), I plan on never even having to use a breast pump, as we are fortunate enough to have me stay at home during the most crucial years of our child's development.  I'm the kind of girl that is not only giddy excited about nursing, but I plan to do it as long as my baby chooses - or practice child led weaning.  This is a subject that I am incredibly passionate about, and I feel so grateful to have learned about the benefits of breastfeeding.

There are women I know that have chosen the breast, and have been able to provide milk for their child upon returning to work through pumping.  However, when I became pregnant, I looked at our environment (ARMY!) and wondered how women in the military continued breastfeeding in a male-dominated environment.  Aside from the recent issues plaguing the military (particularly its women), I wondered how women found not only time, but an environment in which to express.  What didn't even cross my mind, until I was speaking with a military mommy, is how one continues to provide milk for their child while in the field, during an exercise, or TDY.  Sadly, most well-intentioned military mommies are left with no other choice than to supplement with formula, even if they never had that intention.

In a country where breastfeeding is still often taboo, and though most American mothers breastfeed, moms don't do it for the suggested amount of time, we should find every way possible to support those who choose the breast.  

In my research I came across a group called Breastfeeding in Combat Boots.  It is based on a book marketed for military moms seeking to breastfeed while serving, and has been enveloped into the ever-growing breastfeeding movement.  Based on demand and interest, a movement within the military itself has started, and mothers across the country have become involved in making breastfeeding not only accessible to military moms, but a priority.  

A lawmaker that I have looked up to for some time now, Kirsten Gillibrand, has decided to draft a military-wide breastfeeding policy.  Not only is this unprecedented but it is sorely needed, and Senator Gillibrand needs your support!  Please join me in writing an email of your support to kirsten_gnipp@gillibrand.senate.gov.  

Also, check out this article on why we need breastfeeding policy in the military.  Let's serve those who serve us!

Peace, love, breast,

Britt

26 weeks

The next time I write a blog entry, I'll probably be in the third trimester!  NUTS!

Matt and I are getting SO excited for this baby!  We wish we could fast forward to August.  Though, I just realized these are the last few months it will just be the two of us.  WOAH.  That's crazy.  At our last appointment we weren't able to determine if Nugget is a girl or a boy, and I'm quite happy about that!  I just wish we would have never done ultrasounds if we weren't going to find out.  Oh well.  I feel this is the first of many efforts this child will have at keeping us on our toes.  At first Matt was pretty frustrated, but I think he's excited now.  

How far along?  26 weeks!

Maternity clothes?  Exclusively.  I have a feeling the jeans won't last until August, though I'll be living in dresses by then :)

Stretch marks?  A few

Sleeping?  It's becoming easier.  Whenever there is a growth spurt, I have trouble adjusting.  I currently sleep with a towel rolled up under the side of my belly.  If I don't do this, my back begins to ache.  

Cravings?  Eggs!  With ketchup, of course.  I used to add hot sauce to the mix, but that had to stop.  I've also been craving chocolate, which is often cured by drinking a glass of chocolate soy milk or Ovaltine with peanut butter.  On the weekends I usually get frisky and bake a batch of cookies.  Though I have my fair share, Matt typically finishes them off by Sunday evening, or they are sent to the office on Monday.  Fresh fruit juice is another thing I crave.  Every other morning I make a batch of apple/pear/blackberry/carrot juice good enough for two days.  And yesterday at the market, I began to salivate at the sight of nectarines.  I also wake up in the night craving grapes.  I'm still all about tomatoes, which has been the norm since I was about five years-old.  Because I switched to gluten-free bread, tomato sandwiches haven't been near as good, but I'm still drinking tomato juice like a crazy person.  Salsa and hummus are consumed every afternoon with olive chips, and typically followed by a pickle and perhaps even a glass of pickle juice.  YUM!  But the weirdest most surprising craving of all is garlic bread.  I ate it for dinner and lunch two days in a row last week!  I found that gfree bread is best toasted, and after experimenting one evening, I was hooked.  I've never been a bread person, and though I've always liked garlic bread to an extent, it has become an obsession.  I cut back because the act of consuming empty calories upsets me.  But sometimes, you just want them!  A food free craving - reading!  I can't stop.  I finished Catching Fire last week and immediately began Mockingjay.  The Hunger Games trilogy has consumed me...

Aversions?  Tuna.  All meat products.  Even watching someone eat a sausage makes me want to vom. And violence.  No, that's not food either, and though I've never liked violence in films/television, it's even more so now.  Which is strange, because the Hunger Games books are about as violent as you can get.  Something about watching people get injured, or even more so, animals in bad shape (thanks SKY campaigns to help animals), pushes me over the edge and I get angry and cry.  Another aversion, stupid people.  I can't deal right now and fear that before long I will snap on someone being ignorant.  You have been warned.

Other symptoms?  Crazy ass dreams!  I've always been a vivid dreamer, and often have journaled dreams as I believe they are the gateway into the subconscious.  However, hormones add a whole new dimension!  Sometimes I have dreams that I'm nursing the baby, and I can't believe it's already here!  That's probably because we are getting so excited and starting to realize it is almost time.  Other times I dream of food - often times Zaxby's chicken fingers with Zax sauce :/  Recently it has been all about The Hunger Games.  Last night I dreamt I was the Mockingjay (this only makes sense if you've read the books) in urban combat.  I woke up a little startled, to say the least.  There has also been a wee bit of heartburn, perhaps a precursor of what's to come, and upper abdominal discomfort which isn't so bad once I learned that it is just my muscles shifting.  And the feetsies get a bit swollen from time to time, but I'm keeping them propped up at every opportunity.  And excitement!  Before long it will be August and we'll have a baby on our hands!

Best moment of the week?  Pace has become so intuitive.  Though she is usually all about Papa, she now jumps in my lap and lays her head on my belly, or falls asleep in front of my belly when we're napping.  I really thought Patton would be the protective one, and he definitely is, but Pace even more so.  

 Pace, loving on Nugget and Mommy :)

Baby Cole's the size of an eggplant!

23 Weeks

Nugget and I, as seems to be the theme, have been growing like mad!  This last week I realized just how big the bugaboo is during a movement session when I simultaneously felt a jab on one side of my belly and a kick on the other.  But I must say, my favorites are the big movements, the one where either a head or a booty rolls across my tummy!  I love to poke back and play :)

Also, our friends, the Bybees, had their beautiful baby girl Reese.  I went and saw them at the hospital, and then Matt and I visited them again at home.  Reese is an absolute doll, and I know she and Baby Cole will get along just fine.

How far along?  23 weeks

Maternity clothes?  Exclusively

Stretch marks?  A few tiny ones

Sleeping?  Not very well the last few nights.  I'm getting increasingly uncomfortable, and that, coupled with the growing pains, makes for very light sleep.  I do, however, take some righteous naps to make up for it.  

Cravings?  Anything with tomatoes.  I drink tomato juice for a midmorning snack, then eat a spinach and tomato salad and something like veggie soup with tomatoes or something else with, yes, tomatoes, chips and salsa for an afternoon snack, and then something with ketchup for dinner. I've always loved tomatoes, but it's getting out of control!  I've also been craving very healthy choices (YAY!) to include fresh juice that I make every couple of days and keep in the refrigerator.  I've also been eating eggs.  That's right, I'm not a pure vegan at this moment.  Because they have so much protein, I feel quite OK about it.  Plus, we buy free-range organic eggs, so the guilt factor isn't so bad.  I plan to go egg-free again after August, though I may consider continuing while breastfeeding.  And weeks 20-22 I consumed more chocolate than is healthy.  EEK!  I feel so guilty!

Aversions?  I can report that Matt hasn't had tuna in the house for a couple of weeks!  I don't know if he is doing it because he knows I was getting agitated, or because he's cut back on it (I honestly hope it's the latter!).  Matt's cologne and deodorant are also a little strong.  

Other symptoms?  The tiniest stomach/digestion system for the largest appetite!  I am hungry all the time, but if I eat too much I get ill.  I can't eat glutenous foods, and if I eat one heavy thing (say, gfree pasta), my meals for the rest of the day must be very easy to digest.  There has been a lot of miso soup and plum juice and fresh juices trying to keep things moving along so I can eat more.  Yesterday, though, I ate only soups and salads. I'm very good about getting protein and vitamins, but this week I've wondered if I'm getting enough calories because of my inability to eat for my appetite.  This was a big growing week for us, and I'm starting to learn how to eat for my ever-changing body.  I am also increasingly uncomfortable.  Sometimes I feel like there is nothing I can do to feel relaxed, and I often shift about on the couch every few minutes.  I guess I'm just starting to get a feel for what is to come!  I've been aching a lot and having round ligament pains, but the chiropractor is helping a lot with that.  Whenever I go see her, I leave on Cloud 9.  My ligament pains were getting pretty intense this week, and she rubbed them good until I felt relief.  She also adjusted my pelvis which was aching like crazy (I think Nugget likes to hang out on the left side) and massaged the ligaments in my hips.  I'm so grateful for the research I did on prenatal osteopathy, as I had never heard of it before pregnancy.  It has helped me in so many ways, especially considering I have been one achy lady since hitting 16 weeks or so.  I've started waddling slightly (already?!) and if I'm on my feet for too long, I know it.  My feet have also been swelling a bit, just what is to be expected.  I asked Matt if my feet looked swollen the other night and he said, "Yeah - I mean, you can't really see your ankles".  You always want to hear your husband tell you you have cankles.  Great stuff, hon.  I feel like that's a lot of complaining, and don't get me wrong, pregnancy has been relatively uncomfortable for me, but I'm still enjoying it.  I love my growing belly, feeling the baby, and the energy I've had.  And this is different, but I've never felt so empowered.  It resonated with me during a post-yoga meditation last week that though I feel like a granny in some of the positions, other times I feel stronger than I've ever felt.  It's quite an incredible feeling.  And another symptom that Matt (and my now sad, little bras) can't help but notice - larger breasts!  It's crazy.

Best moment of the week?  Whenever Matt gets to feel the baby :)  This has happened a couple of times, and he just loves it.  True, he only sticks around for a kick or two, but he gets excited, and that's rare (ha).  I still get giddy every time the baby moves, so that would also have to be a best moment of the week.  We also confirmed our maternity and newborn photographer this week!  And, I think we settled on a name :)

On Tuesday we are headed for our last ultrasound to see if we can get a better glimpse of Nugget's little parts.  Maybe we'll know if s/he's a boy or a girl, maybe we won't.  At this point, we're prepared to not know until her/his birthday (something I've wanted since the beginning).  Matt keeps mentioning how excited he is to see how much s/he's grown, and I must agree.  This is also the week of my glucose test, and I'm a little nervous because of my sugar binges.  The last seven or so days I've really cut back on refined sugar, something that I barely touched before pregnancy.  Before I give in to sugar now I think, "Is this best for the baby?" and the answer is clearly no.  Besides, it's binding and gives me headaches!  It's something I'm working on, and I pray my post-Easter sugary transgressions haven't been a problem.

I'm getting bigger all over!  So proud of my growing belly and baby Nug!