And it starts

And it starts…… So I have been hearing all these stories about the trials and tribulations of pregnancy and I figured it would come in time… well it has arrived. My feet have been slowly getting a little bigger on busy days but last Friday they were almost unrecognizable. Yuck. When we’ve been out, Greg has been offering to drop me off and pick me up at the front doors and that was the first day I took him up on the offer. I had been hoping to last longer on the door service but with only 5 more weeks left, I might as well just give in. I have also had to stop wearing my wedding ring most days. Traded it out for a ring from my trip to Ireland.

The Braxton Hicks (pre-labor) contractions have been increasing. This week, I have had to teach two full, back-to-back days of classes. I got hooked up with good chairs so I was able to sit the majority of the time but it still wore me out. The second day included sharp back pain that has now turned to stiffness. Feels like Kiwi is growing every day and running out of room.

Tums have also become my friend. Need about 3 times a week. Cravings have started too. Really didn’t have much early on with the exception of baked potatoes (weird) but now I am craving sweets, any kind: chocolate, sugary, ice cream, cookies. You name it, I want it. I have slowed down quite a bit but I am still doing water aerobics and just finished up my pre-natal yoga class. Activity has really helped me keep stress down and hopefully manage my weight.

31+/- more days!

April Showers

April brought lots of rain in St. Louis and two baby showers. My coworkers threw a surprise shower for me at a local restaurant on Tuesday, April 14 and the planned shower with friends and family was on Sunday, April 19 at Dave and Deborah O'Brien's house. Both were wonderful.



Many coworkers chipped in and together they gave us our car seat and stroller combo along with other goodies including a Cardinal's onesie. It was a great surprise and a huge load off of us. The Sunday shower was really nice as well and brought lots of goodies. Greg and I are feeling much more prepared for baby. Stay tuned for pictures of the nursery. It is almost ready.


Picture from the work shower:



















Picture of the baby room as I go through all the good stuff: