39.5 - Any day now we could drop this mini watermelon

So I decided to blog a day early because I don't know when this baby is going to come, and I want to make sure that I get week 39 in.

Last Wednesday we had a Dr. Appointment. She did not check for dilation (which I was glad), but we did get an ultrasound. Baby and fluid looked good, and she confirmed that he is still a boy...lol. His heartbeat was in the 130's, a little lower than it normally is, but she says that it's normal. Fundus was 36 1/2cm. Half cm smaller than last appointment. Not to worry, it's so close to my due date, and he's still moving around. My blood pressure was down too. Not that I have had high blood pressure, but it was noticeable enough that the nurse commented on it. It was 120/70. It's normally 130ish/70ish. I told her that was weird because I had a headache, so I would assume that the blood pressure was higher with a headache. I wasn't complaining though. ;)

This week has been uneventful. I had a few contractions yesterday and today, but nothing lasting, or painful. I guess my body is warming up. :) Hoping to get past today without having the baby....anytime after today is good for us. Joel is working late today, and it's sorta an important training day. I mean he'll leave from work if things get serious, but we'd rather Baby Jehoshaphat comes after today.

Don't forget to check out our baby game at expectnet.

You will want to enter the game name: babywilloughby.

Although it's too late to pick the gender, you can still guess how much he will weigh, and when he will be born.

What's new this week?

How far along: 39.5 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 19 lbs. Didn't gain any weight at the last appointment.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 45". Every week it seems to be getting smaller. Does that mean he is dropping? We'll see!

Belly Button: Flat, but part of it sticks out. Joel keeps making fun of it. He asked me the other day what's wrong with my belly button....He said it looked bruised. I told him once again that it was probably just a stretch mark.

Best moment this week: Hearing his heartbeat once again. Joel hanging the curtain rod for me.

Food cravings: Today I wanted twice baked potatoes....and they are so good!

Food aversions: None.

Gender: He's still a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: None this week to report. Well, I had one or two, but I didn't write them down again.

What I miss: Nothing. This has been a good week for me.

What I am looking forward to: His arrival.

Milestones: Got the curtains set up. Crib bedding will be washed today as well. The room will be ready minus some pictures. Those will have to go up after he is born. Two days! Yikes! He could come tonight if he wanted. I'm grateful for an easy pregnancy without complications. Let's just hope that labor will be the same.


Your baby's waiting to greet the world! He continues to build a layer of fat to help control his body temperature after birth, but it's likely he already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of his skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.



Until next post,

37.6 weeks-"Chard"-ly any time left

Wow! Another week closer. This week we got the crib back from my Dad, and now the nursery is pretty much set up. I just need to add the finishing touches (ie curtains and pictures). I am getting excited.

This week at our Dr. Appointment the Fundus was measuring at 36cm (guess we are going to have a small baby). I also lost weight, so I gained a total of 16 pounds so far. Baby heartbeat was in the 150's again. Things are looking good. I did get an exam to see if we were dilated yet, but thankfully nothing is happening just yet. I don't mind him "cooking" for a little longer. I still have a few things to do around the house to prepare for his arrival. Besides, we want him to be born on September 4th...lol.

This last week was so busy with our 30th church anniversary services. Don't have time to tell you about it now, but I do have time to tell a funny yet embarrassing story?

I had to make 50 sugar free red velvet cupcakes for our church banquet this last Saturday. Soooo, I spent about 5 hours making them all pretty with fondant pearls and all. Well, I did not see them served at the banquet so I inquired once it was over, and of course they were not served (her reasoning was because no one asked for them...like people know to ask for a sugar free alternative, they will take what you have out on the tray)...so needless to say I was mad, got upset, and when I saw Joel, I immediately started crying. Well if you don't already know, pregnant women can sometimes have accidents. So I started crying into Joel's shoulder, and immediately I had a "small" accident....I was so embarrassed. I told Joel "I think I just peed, we need to go"

So we left right away. Like I said it was a "small" accident, and no on knew the better...yet it was still embarrassing. Once we got in the car, I told Joel, I sure hope that was pee and not my water breaking. At this point, Joel started getting nervous, and realized that we could go into labor whenever, and that at that particular moment, he was not ready. So the next time you see a pregnant woman get upset, have sympathy for us. We just might have an accident, or break the bag of waters and go into labor...lol.


What's new this week?

How far along: 37.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 16 lbs.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 45". He must have dropped a bit.

Belly Button: It's a flat sorta looking thing, and at times, part of it sticks out. I don't think I will look like a "done turkey" in the next two weeks though.

Best moment this week: Getting the nursery in working condition. We just need the last few things done. Finding his "coming home" outfit. It's so cute! Here is a picture of the outfit so you can agree with me (even if you don't think it's cute), and a few of the nursery. It still needs a few things.





Food cravings: Rocky Road Ice Cream (well, that's what we had in the freezer, and it just sounded good)

Food aversions: Tums, it doesn't go well with my digestive system. I guess I need to eat more fiber.

Gender: He's still a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: I need to start writing them down. I can't recall any crazy ones this last week.

What I miss: My back not hurting. The load of this child is a little burdensome at times.

What I am looking forward to: His arrival, but I am not in a rush for him to come.

Milestones: The nursery is set up and almost finished. He is moving around like crazy.

Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)

Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

Until next post,

35.6 weeks- Honey Dew this...

Today we had a Dr. Appointment. I gained another three pounds. I guess I like the three pounds every two weeks routine...lol. From this point on, we start seeing the Dr. every week until he is born.

Baby had a strong heartbeat at 150 again. Fundus was measuring small she said at 35 1/2 cm. She guesstimated that Baby Jehoshaphat would weight around 7 pounds. We got another sneak peek at him with an ultrasounds. She wanted to make sure that he was still in head down position; of course he was.

I haven't really had a lot going on this last week, (Oh, this week had two people ask if we were expecting) but I anticipate that next week will be filled with a "Honey Dew" list for Joel as the baby shower is on Saturday, and I will be adding my rocking chair and crib back to the room (hopefully)!

I got to spend time with one of my "best good friends" (thats my version of a BFF) Tammy yesterday. We went and got Pedi's. I have been telling Joel for the last three weeks or so that I was going to get my feet done before I had this baby (especially if I had to look at them while giving birth; nothing worse than looking at gnarly ugly toes)....AND if I went into labor before I got them done, you better know that I would be sitting in that pedi chair (labor pains and all) getting my toes groomed. It was nice, refreshing, and absolutely relaxing. Thanks so much Tammy.

I am sure next week's post will be filled with more special thanks as well. So without further ado, lets see...

What's new this week?

How far along: 35.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 17 lbs. Had a Dr. Appointment and gained yet another three pounds. I'm cringing thinking I have four more weeks to gain weight....why am I so worried? I dunno. I know you have to gain weight, but why so much? lol.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 45".

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord, but it's getting sorta flat looking.

Best moment this week: Getting a much needed Pedicure...Thanks so much Tammy! I really, really, really, really, needed it!

Food cravings: None this week

Food aversions: Everything. Heartburn is almost over right?

Gender: He's still a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had a bunch of crazy dreams this week, but most of them centered around me not being able to get to Joel for whatever reason it was in the dream.

What I miss: Being comfortable while singing and sitting. It never fails, every time I start singing, Baby Jehoshaphat decides its a good time to be in my ribs....and then after singing, sitting down is a nightmare with him in my ribs still. I am sure that in a few weeks time, I will be missing the feeling, but for right now the only thing I miss is being comfortable...lol

What I am looking forward to: The baby shower this Saturday. Finishing setting up the nursery.

Milestones: We made it to our weekly OB appointments. It's crazy how time is flying. I know he will be here very soon. My doctor thinks I should be right on time.



Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight


Until next post,

34.6 weeks-Nursery is on it's way towards being finished

This week has been pretty uneventful...well except for my crazy emotions...lol. This is one thing I can't wait to be normal again. It's rather embarassing. I went over to my SIL's house on Saturday night, and she and another good friend asked how I was doing....to which I simply replied "I've been emotional today."...and the next thing I know, I'm crying. It was so embarrassing, but I was so grateful that it was just in front of family. They were understanding and gave liberal hugs and in a few moments time, I was better.

I was so excited to get the nursery finished and painted. Thank you to the best husband in the world! It's like a load lifted off my plate. I ended up shampooing the carpets today as well, and last Friday, my Dad came and picked up the crib. Now I can finish decorating and setting it up once he is done painting it. Can't wait!!!

I also got to spend some time with my niece Mya. She is my little luv bug. I miss her so much when she is not around. Thanks Alex for letting her spend the week with me. We had lots of fun!

Special thanks to:

Monica H.-Thank you for the beautiful bedding. I always appreciate it when people think of me.
Jesse and Lynna- Those onsies are adorable, and Joel will be a proud papa when Baby Jehoshaphat sports them!


What's new this week?

How far along: 34.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 14 lbs. Have a Dr. Appointment next week, so we will see how much more I have gained.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 44 1/2". That's a gain of 1 1/2" in one week!

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: When Joel finished painting the nursery. Shampooing the carpets.

Food cravings: None this week

Food aversions: Everything....It gives me heartburn. I can drink water, and I get heartburn...That's okay, only 5 more weeks to endure this heartburn.

Gender: He's still a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had a bunch of crazy dreams this week, but I forgot them...too bad!

What I miss: Energy- it's so bad I have to take naps still.

What I am looking forward to: The baby shower on August 7th. Finishing setting up the nursery.

Milestones: Baby still kicking up a storm, and gaining weight each day!



Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. His fat layers — which will help regulate his body temperature once he's born — are filling him out, making him rounder. His skin is also smoother than ever. His central nervous system is maturing and his lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

Until next post,

32.6 weeks- STOP THE CLOCK, I'm not ready for the baby to come yet!!!

I can't believe another week has gone by!!! It needs to slow down; the nursery is still not ready!!!!! Please don't come early Baby W, I'm not ready yet....just a few more weeks please?

Okay, now that I have that out, I can go on about my day. So Monday Joel was supposed to paint the nursery, but since he has been working so hard the last two weeks with 6-7 day weeks, I told him not to worry about it. He is on vacation next week and so it will be done sometime next week.

I got bad news though. My camera is lost!!!! I donated to the thrift store for sure. BOO HOO! I got a call that said they couldn't find it. RIIIIGGGHHHT! Oh well. I guess we will have to borrow a camera once the baby comes or purchase another one.

On another note, I got the baby vintage lamp I bid on a week and a half ago. Decor is coming together. I still need to get bedding and a mattress. Maybe after the shower, I can purchase some bedding. Anyways, here is the picture of a similar lamp. The lamp I bought is a white base and a blue arm. The girl is in a white dress with blue polka dots and her rocking chair is painted pink; the little boy is sitting on a blue stool and his outfit is blue and white. Mine is much cuter than this one. But since I don't have a camera, this pic will have to do.



What's new this week?

How far along: 32.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes, but occasionally I will still wear regular clothes.

Total weight gain: 11 lbs.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 42 1/2".

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Got my vintage baby lamp, see picture above.

Food cravings: None this week

Food aversions: Spicy...heartburn again.

Gender: He's still a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had a dream a friend got pregnant out of wedlock. Not a good thing.

What I miss: Sleeping on my stomach. Sometimes it's hard to sleep JUST on your sides.

What I am looking forward to: Nursery being done. Dad, you need to come pick up this crib and paint it.....otherwise, I might just do it! :D

Milestones: We are nearing the end of the pregnancy with only 7 weeks left. Baby is getting bigger and moving around a lot.





By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, he'll gain a third to half of his birth weight during the next 7 weeks as he fattens up for survival outside the womb. He now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). His skin is becoming soft and smooth as he plumps up in preparation for birth.

Until next post,

31.6 weeks- Orange you glad I didn't say peanut

Knock knock?
Who's there?
Peanut.
Peanut who?
Knock knock?
Who's there?
Peanut.
Peanut who?
Knock knock?
Who's there?
Orange.
Orange who?
Orange you glad I didn't say peanut?


I just love those classic "knock knock" jokes. I thought it appropriate because last week Baby Willoughby was weighing in about as much as four oranges. This post is late because I had a virus on my computer that wouldn't allow me to get on the computer. I was so mad!!! We finally got it removed, thank you Jesus! So this post is really my 31.6 week post, and so all "what's new this week" stats will be from then.

Had a Dr. Appointment on Wednesday. I gained three pounds, but since I am going every two weeks now, it's fairly appropriate to the "a pound a week from this point on" rule. Baby W's heartbeat was at 150, but the fundus did not grow. She said that it could be that the baby just dropped down farther into the pelvis. I truly believe that because this last week....HE FOUND MY PELVIS BONES!!! It is now his prerogative to kick off those bones, and oh does that feel un-comfy.


What's new this week?

How far along: 31.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 11 lbs.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 42". It's measuring smaller this week, but could be that he dropped a bit.

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Receiving the anticipated baby mobile in the mail, and getting a few extras that the seller threw in. Winning a lamp that will match the mobile, and prepping the nursery to be painted.

Food cravings: Watermelon, but isn't it always? I made fruit salad for the fourth, and devoured at least three full plates of it. It was good!

Food aversions: Spicy...heartburn again

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had some weird ones, but I can't remember them. Oh well, next time I will write them down.

What I miss: Energy once again. Naps are my friend. I have never been a nap person though, so it's not my norm.

What I am looking forward to: Painting the nursery, the baby shower on August 7th, and Baby W being here.

Milestones: Baby W found the pelvis bones, ribs, and any other area that he can stretch into. It's rather un-comfy, but I love it. I look forward to his movements and sharing them with Joel. Had two people FINALLY ask me if I was pregnant. I was excited, because I still don't always look prego, but I guess now I do look it enough for people to ask. Yay me!



This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

Until next post,

30.6 weeks- A baby's shower

Saturday Baby Willoughby had his first baby shower. Here are a few pictures from my cousins camera. I would have had pics on my camera, but sadly, before the shower I stopped by the thrift store to donate some boxes, and low and behold, my camera by accident made it into the box and was donated. We are still hoping to get it back.

Thank you so much Mom for throwing Baby Willoughby the shower. I had a wonderful time, the food was excellent, and it was great to see family that I haven't seen in a long time. You are the best mom! I wouldn't trade you for anyone. I love you!


Also special thanks to:
Grandma Stella-for letting us use her house/backyard to host the shower
Mone't and Mom Wendy-for coming with me all the way out to French Camp for the shower.
Alex, Cami, and Mya-for your help and the beautiful cake!
And to all who gave gifts to Baby Willoughby.

He got so many cute outfits and DIAPERS!!! My M-I-L made him some handmade gowns, and would you believe it, she found Joel's old baby blanket, and gave it to the baby. I am so excited. It's perfect for the vintage nursery theme we are using. I'll post a picture of it as soon as I can borrow a camera (or we get ours back). :(

Last Wednesday I had a doctors appointment. Baby's heartbeat was 150. Fundus grew 6cm. She also did an ultrasound (no pic) to check on the position of the baby. He is already in head down position facing my back. Great news! That means he is not breech, or facing the wrong way. I was glad to hear that. From now on (until the last month) we are going to visit our doctor every two weeks. It's crazy! I mean we only have 9 weeks left....it's flying. But enough about that, on to the baby stats:


What's new this week?

How far along: 30.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 8 1/2 lbs.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 43 1/4".

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Getting the perfect baby mobile, and my mom throwing the baby a shower. We got some really cute clothes. Finding out another friend is pregnant. So happy for Shyra and Omar!

Food cravings: WATER! My-lanta (speaking of, I need to go get some tums) I can't get enough water. I am probably drinking about a gallon or so a day....okay maybe half a gallon is more accurate. Seriously though!

Food aversions: None.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had a bad dream this week, but I won't post it. I had to wake Joel up in the middle of the night to pray. It was scary!

What I miss: Not having a headache. For the past couple of days, I've had a headache. Boo!

What I am looking forward to: Painting the nursery (same color, just refreshing the walls), finishing with the decorations, and the baby shower on August 7th.

Milestones: Baby is moving a lot. Hitting the "every two weeks" doctor's appointment. It's crazy!



Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and he weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from his face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

Until next post,

29.6 -Squashed? Most likely!

So I know squashed is not a common word, but it seem to fit nicely with my title, as Baby Willoughby is measuring up to a Butternut Squash this week.

Sunday I thought Baby Willoughby was going to kick his way out into this world. I seriously think he like Spanish music. We had a combined church service with our Spanish congregation, and every time I have been in service where there is Spanish music, he always kicks more. He usually kicks me during service, but more so when it's in Spanish....crazy huh?

I'm super excited about this weekend. I have a baby shower scheduled, and I am anxious to see my mom and other family members. It's been a few months since I have seen my mom, and undoubtedly I have grown since then. Next weeks post will probably be full of pictures, and special thanks.

Last week I pre-registered with Eden Hospital (that is where we will be delivering),and they asked me if I had a GP....well I didn't so I had to find a GP. So Monday I had a Doctors appointment with my regular GP, but today I have a doctors appointment with my OB. I think from now on I go in every 3 weeks until I hit the 32 week mark (8 months), then it's every two weeks....we'll see after today.

What's new this week?

How far along: 29.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 9 lbs. Yay! Gained another two pounds in the last month. Weigh in is from my DR. appointment on Monday.

Waist: This week my waist measures in at 43".

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Watching Mone't feel the baby move, and he gave her a really strong kick. It was so funny!

Food cravings: None...well I went to the Farmers Market and I saw these extremely large english peas, and I just had to have them.

Food aversions: None.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: This morning I dreamed that I was in Venezuela, and I missed my plane back home. I didn't know my plane was leaving, and so all my luggage was still at the hotel. Since I missed the plane, I decided to go back to the hotel and get my luggage, only to find a note that said

"It looked too clean, we got suspicious. Your luggage is at the front desk. Get out immediately! Signed Sasheen G."

So I go downstairs grab my luggage, and as soon as I am out of the hotel, a high speed chase starts. Then I woke up....crazy!

What I miss: Sleep! It seems like I am now having insomnia. Maybe my mind has too much to think about, I dunno

What I am looking forward to: Having the nursery set up. It's slowly getting there. Seeing the Baby again.

Milestones: Feeling the baby move and getting the "kick in the ribs" everyone was talking about.



Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

Until next post,

28.6 Weeks- My ever growing cabbage patch

Do you remember those? I do! I had a whole collection of them. I even have one of my nieces dolls here and ready when she comes over to play with. Speaking of cabbage patch dolls, my little cabbage patch is growing. This week I found my first two signs of mommy-hood on my belly. Yep! Two tiny stretch marks...smaller than a dime in length. They are not that dark, so hopefully the will fade soon (they already look lighter).

This week has been eventful for me. FINALLY, we moved the office out of the nursery, and downstairs. I still have my filing cabinet to put in the garage, and hopefully next week I can move my dresser into the nursery.

I mentioned in my last blog that I have two baby showers scheduled. The first is for June 26th. My mom is throwing that one for family on her side. The other is scheduled for August 7th, and that one will be for the many friends and other family members we have.

So this week I added a new category for the "What's new this week" part of the blog. I have decided to start measuring the waist. Please don't be too harsh, I was a little chunky prior to being pregnant, and so therefore my waist like was bigger. With that said, it should be easier now to see how much Baby W has grown.


What's new this week?

How far along: 28.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Yes.

Total weight gain: 7 lbs.

Waist: This week my waist measures (now don't criticize me, cause I was chunky before pregnancy) in at 41 3/4".

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Moving the office out of the nursery. I still have some things to move out, but I can't get to it until next week. I also plan on cleaning it next week. Finding out a good friend is also having a boy. Yay! for Rachel and Ryan S.

Food cravings: Watermelon and chocolate, but not together.

Food aversions: It's not really a food aversion, but more like un-satisfaction. It never fails that I can made dinner, and never want to eat it, and then half an hour later, I am starving!

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: None this week.

What I miss: Not having a headache. For the past week, I have had off and on headaches, and my lower back has been hurting.

What I am looking forward to: Continuing to set up the nursery. Next week I should have some things set up. My dad is still planning on painting the crib, I just have to get it to him.

Milestones: Got my first two stretch marks on the belly. :( Baby must be putting on weight, as he is over 2 1/4 lbs now. Having people feel the baby move.



By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of his head to his heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in his brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Until next week,

27.6 weeks - Calling my lovely cauliflower by name

*********ATTENTION...sort of a long post**********

Joel and I decided on a name for the baby quite some time ago. Well actually it was on our list from the last pregnancy, but since the baby did not come to full term, or grow enough to know if it was a boy or girl, we decided to keep the name as an option. And so when we found out this baby was a boy, we already knew what we were going to name him, (hehe...we are just keeping it a secret until he is born).

It's so hard sometimes not to tell people. Funny thing is Joel tells people we are naming him Jehoshaphat, and we usually get a laugh from people (No seriously, we are not naming the baby that). Once Joel slipped and called him by his real name in front of people, thankfully they were all talking and no one heard. But in the morning I try and make a ritual of saying "Good Morning _____" to the baby. Sometimes he responds, and other time he does not. Like this morning....I thought my stomach was going to explode he was moving around so much! It was crazy. He must have had the hiccups because sometimes it was a steady rhythm of movement.

Thursday I am officially entering my third trimester and will be 7 months along (28 weeks). Crazy that I am nearing the end already. I think posting a weekly blog helps make the time go by faster....lol. I still have lots of work on the nursery to do, BUT I bought two toys for the nursery this week, wanna see?

Ist't that duck just so cute?....He's not authentic vintage, but a reproduction, but I still like him none-the-less, and I love my apple!

What's new this week?

How far along: 27.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: yep!

Total weight gain: 7 lbs. Had to be weighed the other day, and I gained one more pound. Whoo hoo!

Belly Button: Still an innie, but I dunno for how much longer. :o/

Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move, and realizing I only have 12 more weeks until the baby is here.

Food cravings: None this week.

Food aversions: None this week.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Had two this week that I can remember, well one that turned into two. One was of me skydiving from a cliff, and falling into a sink hole, and then when I fell into the sink hole, I fell into a river, and there were things or people trying to pull me under. I'm glad it was just a dream.

What I miss: Being able to get up out of bed without pain. I think I might have something called SPD (Symphysis pubis dysfunction). Let's just say it hurts to lift my legs, turn in bed, etc...you can read up on it here.

What I am looking forward to: Getting rid of things, and rearranging furniture.

Milestones: Heartburn is officially here almost everyday. He's weighing in around 2 pounds now! Movements are much more jerky and can be visually seen. I have a family shower set on June 26th, and a friends and family shower for August 7th.


This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with his legs extended. He's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing his eyes, and perhaps even sucking his fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if he 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 him, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.


Until next week,

26.6 weeks-Cool as a cucumber pt. 1

Yay! We are nearing the third trimester. One more week and we are there! Baby Willoughby will be here before we know it! I am getting really excited. I had Joel take a new baby bump shot on Monday (Memorial Day) Here is a pic:



What's new this week?

How far along: 26.6 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Maternity clothes have finally been embraced. I still wear regular clothes, but I mostly have been wearing maternity for the last week and a half.

Total weight gain: 6 lbs.

Belly Button: Still an innie, thank the Lord!

Best moment this week: Getting a whole bunch of maternity clothes from a friend, and My Dad and (his wife) Lynn showing me the rocking chair they purchased for the nursery ...well for me really! Also, the looks on people's faces on Sunday when I came in my first maternity outfit, and they could finally see the baby bump. I got so many compliments, it was very embarrassing.

Food cravings: Water, I must be dehydrated.

Food aversions: None this week.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: None this week that I can remember.

What I miss: My energy...I feel zapped at the end of the day, and have to take naps.

What I am looking forward to: Cleaning the room that is to become the nursery and moving furniture around.

Milestones: Baby Willoughby is moving so much. His kicks are a lot stronger now. Showing off a legit baby bump.





The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.

Until next week,

24 weeks and 5 days

Would you consider this a baby bump? or just baby chubbies? I still think it looks like baby chubbies (see previous post for reference)

Monday night I threw Joel under the bus at dinner with a group of people from our church. It was actually quite funny though. The ladies were asking if Joel talks to the baby, to which I replied "No! He thinks it's silly!", and of course all the ladies told him that he should be talking to the baby. Well last night, he started talking to the baby. Made my heart soar, knowing that he cares.

I'm getting excited. The other day, I was in the store with Joel, and there was a baby girl in front of us. I just wanted to kiss her nose. I can't wait till I can do so to our baby boy! I know I have 4 more months to go, but if it goes as fast as the past few have been, Baby W will be here in no time.

I have decided to go with a vintage inspired nursery. I am currently looking for the following:

Vintage Baby scale, old wooden pull duck, vintage suitcase and hangers, leather button up shoes, glass bottle from 1920's or so, phonograph, old rocking horse, and whatever else I can think of.

The good thing is there are a lot of antique shops that I can look for these items in. I am currently bidding on a few on eBay, but with eBay, you never know if you are going to get the item, unless you are willing to pay a fortune, to which I do not have.

Joel and I went stroller shopping last week, and we found one that we really like. Since, we have not bought any big ticket items (crib, dresser, swing, etc) we have decided to splurge on a stroller. We are thinking about purchasing the UPPAbaby Vista Stroller:



Although it is expensive, this stroller has the option for becoming a double and triple stroller, and so we will not have to buy another stroller when we decide to expand out family. I also have another stroller in mind, if we cannot afford the UPPAbaby (with the help of family). I also like the Bumbleride Flyer. This one is a little more reasonably priced to which we can afford.



One other thing I have been thinking about, is birthing classes. I would really like to take "The Bradley Method" classes. I want to go natural, and the Bradley Method classes teach relaxation tips to help speed up labor. Maybe that's why I had that crazy dream (see below). The bad part is the class is $350.00. I don't know if I can afford to take the class though, so I am reading his book called Husband Coached Childbirth. I plan on contacting an instructor in the next week to see if they possibly take payments.



In the meantime:

What's new this week?

How far along: 24.5 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Transitioning to maternity clothes. I still wear regular clothes, and maternity is still too big. Maybe next week we will better fit into maternity...lol.

Total weight gain: As of last Dr. appt., 6 lbs, but tomorrow I will have a new weigh in. Look for tomorrows post for an accurate account.

Belly Button: An innie, but it looks like in another month it might pop out...yikes! That's gross. I think I will have to put a bandaide over it if that happens.

Best moment this week: Watching the baby move around the belly.

Food cravings: Sweets, I hope I do not have gestational diabetes.

Food aversions: Spicy food, because it give me heartburn. BOO HOO! I love mexican, and that seems to be the worst.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: I had a dream that I delivered the baby at 6 months. In the dream, my labor was only three hours, and since I thought it takes forever, I never went to the hospital, and Joel had to deliver the baby at home. The funny thing was the ambulance came, but they said that the baby was fine, and that he did not have to go to the hospital. Crazy I know!

What I miss: My energy...I feel zapped at the end of the day.

What I am looking forward to: I finally decided on how I would like to decorate the nursery...drum roll...........Vintage inspired, (ie, toys, leather button shoes, old rattles, wooden pull duck, phonograph, etc...), and so now comes the fun part of getting it all together. Also, if I can, I would like to take "The Bradley Method" birthing classes. I am going to try and contact a teacher this week.

Milestones: The baby is moving all throughout the day. He is almost a foot long, and likes the right side of the belly.


Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

Until next week,

23 weeks and 1 day - The Mango Tango

I know it seems like every week, I am saying the same thing over, but I can't get over how quickly this pregnancy is going by. I mean, it seems just like yesterday that we announced to the church we were expecting a little one.

The last week has been an emotional one for me. A really good friends dad went on to be with the Lord, and I sold my car. But as sad as the situation was, it was also a joyous occasion.

Last Saturday, Cesar Virtucio, received the Holy Ghost (in accordance with Acts 2:38) as...yes that's right, as he was passing. All that were there in attendance of the passing, said it was a miracle. He was previously baptized in the wonderful name of Jesus (Sometime in February of this year), and seeking the Holy Ghost. Looking back, I realized how precious life really is. That same day he passed I was just in awe of how much the baby was moving, and how life was growing within my belly. How the Lord gives and takes away, but still "Blessed be the name of the Lord". He knows the plans He has for our life, and though things happen and we don't understand why, He has it all under control.

With that in mind, we were struggling financially to make ends meet, and so the decision was made to sell my car to help relieve some of the pressure. Not that I don't need my car, I do, but at the same time, there are plenty of families who get by with only one vehicle. It just means that I have to plan my days/time better if I want to go out. So we put my car up on Craigslist, and I refreshed it a couple of days later, and not more than two hours goes by, and I get a call. They came by last Thursday, liked the car, made an offer, and then I proceeded to see if they bank would settle the debt for less than the amount owed (I was upside down, so there was no way I would sell the car for what I owed). So this last Tuesday, the bank accepted the offer, and Wednesday, we went down to the bank to pay the debt off, and register it in their name. It was very emotional for me, because I was worried they would back out, or there was going to be some problem, or it wouldn't pass smog, but though there were a few hangup, they now have the vehicle, and I only need to have the the lien removed, and sign off on the title when it comes. TO GOD BE THE GLORY.

If you can, please keep our family in prayer, our financial struggles are not over yet. I desperately need a job, but at this late into pregnancy, I am not sure I will be able to find work. So if you could pray that my husband gets a better job, as things are tough for him there with all the changes they are making, we would really appreciate it. As I stated before, God knows the plans He has for our life, and so it is with a humble servant's willing heart, that I want to be found. We want to be where God wants us. I know sometimes my faith falls short, but He is there in my times of weakness.

What's new this week?

How far along: 23.1 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Still in my regular clothes, but I do wear maternity, when I feel that my clothes are a little too tight. I had yet another friend tell me I look great, and don't look pregnant at all.

Total weight gain: 6 pounds. I was so excited when I went into the Dr.'s office, and I weighted in at 171. My starting weight was 165, and so considering I was 5 months along when weighed, that's pretty good!!!

Belly Button: Still an innie, although it looks like it got deeper. It might just be that it has spread/gotten bigger.

Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move around daily. I noticed in church he responds to the preaching/music. He is really active during those times.

Food cravings: Watermelon

Food aversions: None.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out the picture from our previous post.

Crazy Dreams: Ok, so last week I dreamed my stomach was as hairy as a dog. It was really gross.

What I miss: My energy...I feel zapped at the end of the day.

What I am looking forward to: Setting up the nursery, and buying a stroller.

Milestones: Baby is moving/Tangoing daily, about 11 inches in length, and approx. weighs 1 pound. You can visibly see movements on the outside now. Joel got to feel the baby move again the other day. I find it's so special to share that with him.

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With his sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that he's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see him squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing his for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze him when he hears them outside the womb.

It's a..........................

Yes, it's true! We are officially having a boy. Yesterday we had our Anatomy scan and the Sonographer confirmed that it was indeed a boy.

Can you say blue? Joel and I are so excited! She also said "unofficially" that everything looked good, but that it would be up to the DR. to confirm.

Joel and I want to say a special thanks to Omar and Shyra. They recently had a baby last June, and have been so kind as to pass down some much needed baby items that we can use. So we want to say:

Thank you, from the bottom of our grateful hearts!

Back to baby talk:

It's so weird to think that we are having a boy. God knows that our church needs more little boys though as the little girls outnumber the boys by a lot. Both Grandmas were excited to hear the good news too.

OH!!!!! Last night the baby was moving, and I told Joel, "Just look, you can see my belly move", and sure enough, he saw the baby moving in the tumm-tumm for the first time, so I had him try once again to feel for movement, and guess what! He actually felt something. I was so happy! Finally!!!! Though he is waiting till next month because the kicks are not very strong for him to feel for. He likened it to "a butterfly brushing their wings on your skin" Not a lot to feel, but once the baby gets bigger, he will have plenty to feel for.

What's new this week?

How far along: 19.5 Weeks

Maternity clothes: Still in my regular clothes...but I had someone tell me that I am looking sorta pregnant. I had another friend tell me I look great, and don't look pregnant at all considering Thursday we will be 5 months along. I am not sure which is better...lol

Total weight gain: 9.5 pounds (I would weigh myself with our scale, but I think it's wrong, so I'll just keept the Dr. weight)

Belly Button: Still an innie, although it looks like it got deeper. It might just be that it has spread/gotten bigger.

Best moment this week: Feeling the baby move around, our 20 week Anatomy scan, finding out it's a boy, and calling all our friends and family to tell them

Food cravings: Red Licorice...(not really a craving, but it looked so good at the store, I went ahead and bought it. :)

Food aversions: None.

Gender: It's a boy! Check out our picture above.

Crazy Dreams: None this week.

What I miss: Sleeping properly. It seems I can not find a comfortable place to sleep. It just might be our bed though.

What I am looking forward to: Fixing up the nursery, and finalizing colors/theme.

Milestones: Baby is moving almost daily, and about 6 inches in length.

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! His brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that he may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to him, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom —about the size of a large heirloom tomato. His arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of his body now. His kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on his scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on his skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

So until next week,