39.5 Weeks

And I wonder if this pregnancy will ever end. Though my doctor assured me that, at some point, they all come out. I am a little skeptical.

My husband took this shadow picture during one of our evening "come on baby...drop!" walks.

How far along? 39.5 weeks!

How is she growing: As my OB says, she's "good size" (apparently a little bigger than average)...I am hoping she clocks in under 8lbs.

Weight gain so far: About 33 lbs...and I was so proud of myself this morning when I turned down cream biscuits and jam.  For pancakes. Wait, that probably doesn't really work, huh? dang.

Stretch marks? So shocked the answer is still no...especially since everyone says my belly is gigantic.

Belly button in or out: Still no where to be found...

Wardrobe situation: I think the past two days I've only managed to feel comfortable in a pair of underwear and my husband's black t-shirts. Maternity clothes at this point are kind of a joke.

Sleep: Sleeping okay, but definitely fighting some mid-night contractions.

Best moment this week: Spending time with joon...so nice to have him home. And seeing one of my best friends get married! :)

Movement: Less movement this week, but still my little fighter.

Food cravings/aversions: I had a huge pizza and ranch dressing craving earlier this week--and it was just as delicious as I imagined. Fruit is still number one though and I'm sure my digestive system thanks me.

What I miss: I should not admit this, but I kind of miss work. haha. or maybe it's the people I work with that I miss :).

Mood: Last night I threw a huge fit because I found a spider in our bed and I refused to go to sleep until the spider was found. If that says anything. My poor husband.

What I'm looking forward to: Meeting our baby girl. Please come soon!!!

37 and 38 Weeks

And definitely feeling it. From the emotions to the complete shift in my center of gravity. Can't believe I'm already full term! Whoa mama is right. Sometimes it feels like I've been pregnant for seven years and sometimes it feels like the time went by so quickly. However, these past couple of weeks have been the hardest. I'm so excited for our baby girl, but somehow I manage to tear up over something everyday. I think the distance from joon has effected me much more than I expected, especially in these last few weeks. I have a profound respect for women who go through this process without spouses, significant others or a support network of people. As joyful as this time is, it brings with it a whole new world of worry, responsibility, and rapid transformation. Joon has decided to book an earlier flight to spend a little time alone with me before our baby girl arrives. I think this will be really good for both of us as our life is about to change dramatically in less than two weeks.

Can you believe baby girl will be in this in just a few short weeks?!

One of the only baby projects I've completed...but at least she'll always have a clean diaper :)

How far along? 38 weeks!

How is she growing: Still my little green watermelon...just a little heavier. I'd say she's close to 7.5 lbs. Though, at times it really feels like I could be completely wrong and this baby will be the next Guinness World Record baby...especially when I convince myself to take the stairs.

Weight gain so far: Over 30lbs! I should really keep the ice cream out of my shopping basket.

Stretch marks? None! Only have to hold out a couple more weeks. Though, someone scared me the other day by saying the stretch marks show up after you give birth. Seriously?! All that daily lathering for nothing?! I really hope this person is completely misinformed.

Belly button in or out: Ha! I think it's safe to say mine no longer exists.

Wardrobe situation: No comment.

Sleep: Been sleeping well when I can sleep, but I keep having these crazy dreams that my water breaks and I wake up suddenly ready to jump out of bed and go to the hospital. Only to be disappointed that, yet again, it was a false alarm. Can you tell I'm ready to deliver this baby??

Best moment this week: Training Lucas to like his crate again...

Movement: She was pulling out all her ninja moves earlier this week. I even caught some of it on tape and was able to send to joon and my sisters.

Food cravings/aversions: Summer fruit--Nectarines, peaches, apricots. And, of course, chocolate ice cream. But the other day, something very strange happened...I ate broccoli. And I didn't hate it! I think my taste for vegetables may be finding its way back to me.

What I miss: The old me. and my husband. And the old us together.

Mood: I could go on and on here, but I'll spare you all. I am, however, INCREDIBLY excited/happy/overjoyed to meet our little girl and be a family again.

What I'm looking forward to: Wednesday morning :).

36 Weeks

days left!!!

How far along? 36 weeks (only 28 days to go)!

How is she growing: So fast! She's 6.5 lbs! At least I hope, but girl could be eight five for all I know--maybe taking after her favorite Titans RB, Chris J.

Weight gain so far: 29 lbs! I weigh the same as joon. haha. hopefully not for much longer. 

Stretch marks? Nope. Yay! Hope it holds out for another few weeks.

Belly button in or out: At this point it's stretched so far that it doesn't even look like I have a belly button.

Wardrobe situation: Two more maternity pants into the storage bin. At this rate, by the time I reach delivery, I will be resorting to an over-sized moo moo (likely borrowed from the elderly Mrs. Johnson down the street).

Sleep: and a lot of it. However, in order for me to get in a decent (6-8 hour) rest, I have to go to bed around 7:30 or 8 at night to make up for the hourly bathroom visits and 2am contractions.

Best moment this week: Seeing my darling joon. Even though we argued incessantly the whole weekend because we're both so frustrated with being separated, it was still, hands down, the best part of my week. Miss you like crazy baby. Can't wait to be together again.

Movement: Still squirming around in there. I think she is starting to descend into my pelvis, as I've noticed my belly shifting down. Yay! Means she is getting ready for the big day we've all been waiting for :).

Food cravings/aversions: I LOVE summer fruit...maybe even more than mint chocolate chip ice cream and hot fud--wait wait, what am I saying?! That can't be true. Fruit over ice cream? Yeah, these hormones are totally screwing me up.

What I miss: My favorite foods. Oh I can't wait to dig into a yummy medium rare steak, a side of sushi, and a salad topped with blue cheese.

Mood: Happy. Sad. Mad. Happy. Frustrated. Anxious. Confused. Lonely. Happy. And that was just in the past hour.

What I'm looking forward to: Meeting our beautiful daughter! Only a couple more weeks!

35 Weeks

And apparently my new nickname is "watermelon."  Last weekend I stopped by a health fair at a local barbershop and one of the patients started calling me "watermelon." "Hey, watermelon, come over here," he said. So, now a growing number of people at my work are now calling me "watermelon." I'd have to say, it's hard to argue with them. I decided for my 35 week picture I would do a comparison shot from week 22. Here I am in my EB t-shirt at 22 weeks and now at 35 weeks...wow. Watermelon is right.

 

How far along? 35 weeks!

How is she growing: About the size of a juicy summer watermelon.

Weight gain so far: 29 lbs! 

Stretch marks? Nothing yet. I just ordered more Bella B Tummy Honey Butter. I go through this stuff like pound cake.

Belly button in or out: An outie for sure and you can now see it through my t-shirts. Attractive.

Wardrobe situation: Really really need that pair of pajama jeans. I found some boxers that are too big for my husband and they truly have been a lifesaver this week. If it were up to me, I'd, without hesitation, go about my day in a roomy sports-bra and large boxers from old navy. But apparently that's inappropriate...even on casual Friday.

Sleep: Just exhausted...super super exhausted. I get really tired now just driving the 10 minutes to work. Somewhat surprised I make it through the 8-hour work day.

Best moment this week: Watching Lucas play with my nephew, Liam. He was so sweet with him, I was reassured he will be good with Natalie too...as long as he doesn't try to sit in her lap :). 

Movement: A ton of movement the past couple of days. Feel like she's burrowing her way into my pelvis. Which means even more frequent bathroom breaks.

Food cravings/aversions: Forced myself to eat eggs this morning for some protein, but they have definitely made my aversion list. Really missing my love of vegetables, can't wait to get my taste back for salad and broccoli. But, on the bright side, still loving every kind of fruit and manage to get in 4 - 6 servings a day. 

What I miss: Just me...missing my old self. I think I've cried enough in the last couple of weeks to last me for the next couple of years.

Mood: The last few weeks have been challenging for joon and I. We both seem to want the same thing: to feel more connected. But, with his schedule and my exhaustion, its been hard to make that happen. We decided, not matter what, we're sticking together if any kind of move comes up for one of us in the future. I am a fan of this decision.

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing my husband this weekend and watching my brother graduate from high school! Congrats--go Mustangs! :)

34 Weeks

And our little ninja baby is getting stronger and stronger everyday. She's really running out of room in there, and by the strength of her blows, there isn't much amniotic fluid left either. Only about a month before baby girl joins our family, can't wait to sign cards with "Love, The Caos"--wait, that looks a lot like we just misspelled "chaos"...haha, which may, in fact, be more accurate once we become a family of four.

How far along? 34 weeks!

How is she growing: About the size of a basketball (and I have the picture to prove it!). Despite what could have been perfect timing, sadly, we will not be cheering on our Rockets this year :(.  

Weight gain so far: Almost 30 lbs! Everyone says "It's all baby!", which I think they mean as a compliment, but all I can think is "It better not be all baby!".

Stretch marks? Nope :). Though someone scared me and said all her stretch marks showed up the week she gave birth. Apparently they can just pop up spontaneously right when you're about to give your belly a break.

Belly button in or out: Oh, so so an outie.

Wardrobe situation: Unless its made of spandex or offers a generous elastic waistline, its not happening. In fact, I seriously contemplated purchasing a pair of pajama jeans. But, I have a feeling Stacy and Clinton would not approve. Mairin, maybe this is our ticket to the $5,000 wardrobe!

Sleep: So very tired and sleep is nearly non-existent. Nature definitely has its way of preparing you for a baby.

Best moment this week: My first sort-of "Mother's Day" :):

Sweet card from my sister and soon-to-be auntie Kieran :)

Movement: Lots of big movements, punches and kicks...she's really fighting her way out of there.

Food cravings/aversions: Marinated flank steak with potatoes and sauteed spinach and onion. And mangos. And chocolate cake.

What I miss: Eating foods without worry. I have a feeling I won't be so careful with baby cao #2.

Mood: Still very tough without my husband. The distance has felt much further these past few weeks than ever before. I'm trying to remain in good spirits, and baby girl is a wonderful distraction.

What I'm looking forward to: Bringing the Cao family back together, with one very exciting addition :).

33 Weeks

And baby girl is really packing on the pounds. She's like those growing dinosaur toys we had as kids that when you put them in water, they expanded to 200x their original size. We really did have such simple amusements back in those days. On another note, Joon met me in SF this weekend for a Birthing From Within class. The class was super helpful and although it prepared me for "what to expect," I'm still feeling rather overwhelmed with the actual labor and delivery part. Since I have decided not to have an epidural, regardless of induction or no induction, I am a little more than terrified to dive into these uncharted waters.  Of course I say this all now, and won't be shocked if during transitional labor I find myself choking the doctor and screaming, "Give me the juice!" Okay, okay, here is our 33 week shot:

And here we are in the exact same spot, 10 months earlier...crazy, right?!

How far along? 33 weeks!

How is she growing: Weighs in at about 4.5 lbs--the size of a giant melon. 

Weight gain so far: 26 lbs and counting...I step on the scale again Friday and I have a feeling I'm getting close to 30 lbs. In fact, joon and I weighed ourselves and I'm about 10 lbs shy of trading jeans with him.

Stretch marks? Nope! Woot! Woot!

Belly button in or out: An outie all the way.

Wardrobe situation: Growing out of my maternity clothes is not only getting expensive, I am resorting only to the clothing items that fit, which really makes for some interesting outfits. Did you know lime green and navy match?

Sleep: I'm EXHAUSTED, but can only sleep about one hour at a time before my baby girl or my bladder wakes me up with a killer braxton hick's contraction.

Best moment this week: Taking Birthing From Within class with Joon. Here is a picture from the art session:

 

Center pictures: "Womb with a View"; Outside pictures: "The Opening"

Movement: Still my little ninja.

Food cravings/aversions: Fruit--mangos and kiwis. Really not liking eggs anymore.

What I miss: My body...don't get me wrong, I love feeling our baby, but I really miss being held close by my husband and sleeping on my belly. I think that's one of the first things I will do after I deliver, just lay on my belly for hours (haha, like I will have hours to lay down with a newborn).

Mood: Things have been pretty hard lately without my husband. I hope they get better soon.

What I'm looking forward to: Meeting our little one and being a family again.

Maternity Pictures!

...as promised :). We were so fortunate to have my dear friend and photographer, Ayumi Pantell, take these photos (she is also responsible for our incredible wedding album :)).  Photos were taken on the Santa Monica Pier and nearby beach.

 

32 Weeks

I am a little past due on my post...I am actually hitting 33 weeks--whoa mama! Can't believe only a few weeks left. Which means things have become rather hectic, and my blog has suffered. Sorry for such a late post. We did take maternity pictures a couple of weeks ago and I had my baby shower last weekend--so, in short, I have a ton to share. Hopefully I'll be able to post both soon. Here's my 32 week shot, can't believe that dress still (sort of) fits--thank you spandex!

 

How far along? 32 weeks!

How is she growing: About the size of my favorite fruit right now--pineapple :). It's so worth the allergic reaction.

Weight gain so far: Lost a few pounds at my last appointment, so about 24 lbs so far. I think that means I need to eat more pound cake.

Stretch marks? Nope! I really hope it stays that way.

Belly button in or out: Okay, I admit, it is officially OUT.

Wardrobe situation: Still can pull off pre-maternity stretchy dresses :), but all else is destination maternity. Though, I am actually starting to grow out of many of my maternity clothes, I really didn't think that was possible.

Sleep: Getting worse and worse, leaving me super tired during the day. Those siestas I never took in Spain would really come in handy right about now.

Best moment this week: Baby shower at my Aunt Karen's! I have never felt so spoiled and so loved in my life! I really think baby girl has all she needs.

Movement: She is doing her yoga stretches as we speak. I think she just did the in-utero version of warrior...ouch!

Food cravings/aversions: Back to sushi this week. But, and I know I'll regret this once my husband reads it, I was really craving a juicy cheeseburger a couple days ago. I didn't indulge, but I seriously could have downed two double doubles without a second thought.

What I miss: Besides my husband?...nothing. Is really too much to ask? :(

Mood: Although I often get sad and lonely without joon around, I am, otherwise, pretty happy. So anxious for baby girl's arrival.

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing joon tomorrow and taking our birthing class in SF this weekend! Which means, by Monday, I'll be totally prepared to give birth. ha.

31 Weeks

Only 9 more left! And I'm over the moon to meet our little girl and am really really missing my pre-pregnancy belly (mostly because I used to be able to tie my shoes and shave my legs). Made a quick trip down to so-cal to visit hubby, take maternity pictures and get some sun last weekend. He surprised me with a card (he knows how much I love them, but rarely get them...I suppose it makes me appreciate them that much more) and an adorable onsie for baby girl :).  My 31 week picture was taken on a set of eco-conscious steps next to my husband's cafe. I tried to get just the words "Making a better world for you and me", but I was too lazy to use photo shop (pregnancy is starting to get really exhausting).

How far along? 31 weeks!

How is she growing: About the size of 5 large oranges...or 3lbs of my husband's favorite blend of philz coffee :).

Weight gain so far: After my 30 week scare, I've avoided scales entirely. However, I imagine I'm somewhere between last week's "I've really eaten a balanced diet" 25 lbs to this week's "I really can't stay away from the ice cream in the freezer" 30 lbs.

Stretch marks? None so far, but she sure is trying hard to give me a few.

Belly button in or out: Ack! Almost an outie!

Wardrobe situation: I've now gotten to the place where I am only willing to wear clothing items that I don't have to iron, which brings my maternity wardrobe down to only two pants and a skirt. I think by Thursday I may have to force myself to pull out the ironing board.

Sleep: Last night I slept almost 8 hours (not straight of course)--only 4 bathroom breaks! I've become quite skilled at sleep walking my way into and out of the bathroom, so much that I'm able to snuggle back into my bed to pick up where my dream left off. Though the labor nightmares have really taken a turn for the worst.

Best moment this week: Seeing joon and taking maternity pictures on the Pier in Santa Monica with my favorite photographer, Ayumi! Oh, and eating spring rolls with jasmine lime iced tea and chicken salad in bánh tiêu (sweet sesame pocket bread) from EB...mmmm.

Movement: I honestly don't think she slept all day...she's been kicking, punching, stretching non-stop since 7am. She's getting so big now that there's not much to cushion her blows and sometimes they really hurt. But I love you, my little ninja.

Food cravings/aversions: Egg salad sandwiches...I know, kind of stinky and gross, but they sound so good! And any fruit I can get my hands on. This week, it was mangoes and kiwis...thank you farmer's market.

What I miss: Really missing having my husband around, especially at this point in the pregnancy. Although at times it feels pretty empowering to do it all on my own, it would be nice to have my baby there to indulge me in my cravings for pound cake, tie my shoes in the morning, and look me in the eye and say "baby, everyday that you get bigger and bigger I love you even more."

Mood: Happy, but a total emotional basket-case.  The other night I cried for about an hour out of no where. I realize now that next time that happens, I should not face-time my husband.

What I'm looking forward to: My baby shower and getting ready for our little girl to come into the world in just a few short weeks!

29 & 30 Weeks

Forgive me. The past two weeks I've been living in a cubicle, hunched over my computer ferociously typing a 65 page grant while consuming large amounts of joe joe's cookies and dried mango slices. I found that baby girl has picked up on this poor habit quickly and if I am overdue for one of these indulgences she lets me know...either with a strong punch to the kidney or a kick to my left lung. Though I've tried to be good about integrating a large helping of Greek yogurt and granola, often with a banana or apple on the side, her stubborn personality shines through and her kicking storm does not quiet until she gets her fair share of a joe-joe. I can see the terrible twos almost too vividly...darling joon, we really are in for it. Hope you're ready.

How far along? 30 weeks!

How is she growing: rapidly...

Weight gain so far: At my 30 week doctor's appointment last Friday, I stepped nonchalantly onto the scale only to be shocked by the increasing numbers ticking in front of me...4...5....6....7...12 lbs! How did I gain 12 lbs in two weeks?! My calm was suddenly transformed into hysteria with thoughts of a world record sized baby exiting a pathway I feared would never be the same again. As the perplexed MA wrote down the new numbers to alert my physician of this rapid weight gain, I felt heaviness on my body and looking down I found the true culprit...a 10 lb computer bag hanging silently from my left shoulder. 

Stretch marks? I thought I found one on my right side yesterday, but turns out it was the stretched scar of an incident involving my older sister and a fork...I believe the incident took place directly following the realization that she was no longer an only child.

Belly button in or out: Flat and very odd looking.

Wardrobe situation: 100% maternity (in public that is)...as you can see above, the only non maternity wear are my sweet new sunglasses and my new baby g from my baby c.

Sleep: Not great this past week, partly because of grant writing until the wee small hours of the morning. Leg cramps are still unwelcomingly present along with frequent trips to the bathroom. And as if that wasn't the worst of it, I've suddenly become Manny Pacquiao (or his opponent more likely), waking up with 2 to 3 nosebleeds a night! I do hope these go away soon..

Best moment this week: Besides getting new sunglasses?? ...maybe realizing, truly, that I am going to be a mother.

Movement: Lots of jabs, kicks, punches, squirms. I started noticing hiccups and stretches last week, seems like she is really getting cramped in there.

Food cravings/aversions: Still pound cake, but today I really really wanted a large bowl of cocoa krispies...so I went to the store. And bought grape-nuts.

What I miss: My darling joon and tying my shoes in less than 10 minutes.

Mood: Happy and very anxious to meet our baby girl. Ahhh...I can't believe joon and I are going to be parents!

What I'm looking forward to: The baby shower :), seeing joon on Thursday, and finishing this grant!

28 Weeks

And gravity is starting to get the best of me. I'm surprised I haven't plopped over, belly first, in the middle of the grocery store check out line. It sure is easy to gain weight pregnant, so I've been trying to stay active. Joon took this picture while out on a walk the day he left. I am smiling in the photo, but I was pretty upset about him leaving. I also need to admit that, seriously, the hoodie does not fit anymore.

How far along? 28 weeks!

How is she growing: She feels like a 10 lb bag of potatoes, but think she's more like an x-large chipotle burrito. okay, maybe two x-large chipotle burritos.

Weight gain so far: hmm, between the freshly baked biscuits and the midday cookie breaks, I've hit almost 22 lbs! Oh little girl, why oh why don't you like broccoli?!

Stretch marks? So far so good...the real test will be over the coming weeks.

Belly button in or out: Flat. Totally flat.

Wardrobe situation: So first it was my jeans that were becoming inappropriate and I fixed that problem by finally hemming my maternity pants. Now, as is clearly illustrated in above picture, my tops and sweatshirts are creeping up my belly and exposing what my 9th grade Algebra teacher would consider "far too much skin for a girl my age." So, now I must give up my little tees and tanks that so cutely hugged my 5th - 7th month bump for the real deal maternity tops. Thank goodness fashion has finally caught up with the 21st century mom and I do not have to resort to my grandmother's maternity closet:

Sleep: Baby girl still keeps me up like crazy...almost as much as trips to the bathroom and leg cramps.

Best moment this week: Ooo...this one is tough since I have hardly seen the light of day with so much grant writing. I suppose getting our first baby gift in the mail from my cousin...it's really starting to feel like the birth of our daughter is right around the corner.

Movement: She is still moving around like crazy, but I can tell things are getting a little cramped in there.

Food cravings/aversions: Pound cake. pound cake. pound cake. And fresh strawberries.

What I miss: My husband! And my abs...long, long, gone. I do hope they decide to return someday.

Mood: Pretty happy most days...well, the days I have pound cake.

What I'm looking forward to: Finishing this grant, seeing Joon next week, and taking maternity pictures with my favorite photographer, Ayumi!

27 Weeks

And Joon was home for a whole week! It was so nice to finally see him and be in his arms again.  I wish I had a picture of his face when he walked off the plane and saw how much my belly had grown. Can't believe we'd been without each other for 5 weeks! He left just last night, so today has been a little tough. Seems the rainy weather matches my mood almost perfectly. Hopefully I'll be down to visit him in a couple of weeks (that is, if I can still fit behind the steering wheel). Here are some pictures from our time together and, of course, my 27 week shot :).

How far along? 27 weeks!

How is she growing: Size of an NFL Football! Go Titans!

Weight gain so far: Not sure I want to admit this, but almost 18 lbs! I think I gained 5 lbs in the last couple of weeks--thanks Joon for letting me eat all those grilled cheeses and sour patch watermelons!

Stretch marks? Nothing...yet. I really hope this belly butter keeps working as nicely as it has.

Belly button in or out: Almost out. I plan to tell my daughter that if she sees children in her future, she should resist the urge to rebelliously get her belly button pierced on her 18th birthday. Not only does it look a little funny, the stretching has made that area very sore. I really should have listened to my mother on this one. 

Wardrobe situation: Almost 100% maternity. I am still trying to squeeze into my old t-shirts, but I had to finally admit that they are no longer appropriate in public.

Sleep: Baby girl wakes up pretty frequently throughout the night. Leg cramps are still unbearable, but my obnoxiously large body pillow has been a huge help. Although, sleeping with Joon and my body pillow this past week makes it seem like there are more than two people in our bed. I'm sure that was not quite what he had in mind when he came home to visit his wife.

Best moment this week: Playing house with my husband :)

Movement: She is so active these days: kicking, punching, squirming, stretching! Tonight I rested a dinner plate on my stomach (it usually operates as a perfect table top) and she kicked it so hard my dinner nearly ended up on the floor. I can't believe how strong she is...sorry Joon, this one I think she gets from me :).

Food cravings/aversions: Nutella on whole wheat toast. I'm pretty sure I read in an academic medical journal that it's okay to eat as much Nutella as you want as long as it's on whole wheat toast.

What I miss: Still missing sushi, but with my 30th birthday celebration last week I was really missing a celebratory glass of wine. Actually, who am I kidding, I really could have gone for a whiskey on the rocks or a top shelf margarita.

Mood: Happy, sad, anxious, scared, excited--the hormones are not making this easy. Our doctor's appointment on Thursday went really well. Glucose test was normal (I no longer have to feel guilty about Nutella on whole wheat toast), her heart rate was strong and she's was measuring perfectly--maybe a little ahead :). I think she might be just as impatient to meet us as we are to meet her!

What I'm looking forward to: The next time baby girl kicks...which, I guarantee, will happen in the next few minutes. By far the best part of pregnancy. Can't wait to see Joon again...hopefully in a couple weeks.

26 Weeks

Spring is finally here! And I'm two days away from leaving my 20s behind and entering the grown-up world of the 30s...I do hear they are better than the 20s though, so I'm somewhat anxious to begin that chapter in my life. I am getting more and more excited about our daughter coming into the world, but feeling more and more unprepared at the same time. There is so much to think about in the last few months...to take or not to take a birthing class, writing a birth plan, planning for emergencies (I wound up in L & D last weekend...long story, but all ok), packing a hospital bag (I really just thought I'd show up with my toothbrush and some onsies, apparently there's a lot more involved), pre-registering at hospital, and the list goes on and on. So, in an effort to reduce the stress of "baby prep", I treated myself to a MUCH NEEDED pedicure (I shouldn't admit to this, but it's been over a month since I've even been able to touch my feet, let alone tend to them). 

How far along? 26 weeks!

How is she growing: I think she's still the size of a grilled pork banh mi, but with extra pork.

Weight gain so far: Close to 15. I find out the real number at next week's appt.

Stretch marks? None, thank you belly butter.

Belly button in or out: Still rather strange looking, but not quite either.

Wardrobe situation: So the punishment of no mint chocolate chip ice cream really worked! My pants finally made it to the tailor. No more rubber bands!

Sleep: Baby girl is waking up less during the night recently and is more active during the late afternoons. However, leg cramps and back aches have been a less pleasant replacement to her nightly nudges.

Best moment this week: Getting accepted to the UCLA Masters in Nursing program! I really hope they will allow me to defer, would hate to have to reapply. No way Daddy can be working 16 hour days and Mommy in class full time if we want baby girl to recognize us as parents. Plus, I'm not quite ready to write a "Good Dog, 'Lucas'" series. For those unfamiliar, "Good Dog, Carl" is a children's book series about a Rottweiler who gets left taking care of the baby while the mother goes out. The only line in the book something like "Look after the baby Carl, I'll be back shortly." The rest of the pages are filled with pictures of the dog and baby getting into mischief, followed by Carl cleaning the baby and the house up just in time for the mother's reappearance.

Movement: Still pretty erratic, I can't quite follow her cycle yet. Hopefully in the next few weeks. When I was in L & D last weekend, all the nurses kept talking about how active she was on the monitor. There were definitely a lot of nudges I could hear, but not feel, so she is still a little too small to feel everything.

Food cravings/aversions: Freeport bakery grandma cupcakes--so dangerous. I've been trying to resist the temptation, but once every couple of weeks, I cave. My aunt also sent me a recipe for strawberry jam and nutella crepes. Wow, I don't think I've ever tasted anything so wonderful since I've been pregnant. I am still dreaming about them a week later. Not many aversions, but my three week relationship with salad has ended. I really gave it a good run, but its time to move on...

What I miss: Sushi. And a deli sandwich.

Mood: Happy and anxious to see my husband tomorrow after almost 5 weeks! 

What I'm looking forward to: Spending a week with joon and enjoying a yummy birthday dinner of homemade Persian food and Freeport Bakery buttermilk/buttercream cake.

25 Weeks

...and two weeks shy of third trimester status :). Can't believe how quickly time has flown by. Seems only a few days ago when I walked into our bedroom at 4am with a positive pregnancy test (my impatience seems so obvious at times). "Is that really a plus sign?!" I asked my incredibly tired, weary-eyed husband. We stared at it for what seemed like hours, holding it at different angles under the light doubting what we were actually seeing. I can still remember how unbelievable it was to make it to our 12 week appointment and hear her heartbeat, now her kicks and squirms are constant reminders that she is growing and thriving everyday.

Lucas and I taking a walk by the capitol this morning. I never realized how beautiful the grounds are in March as the trees and flowers begin to bloom...it was almost like walking the yellow brick road.

How far along? 25 weeks!

How is she growing: Size of a grilled pork banh mi!

Weight gain so far: Between 12 and 13 lbs

Stretch marks? None so far. I've been better about applying the belly butter this past week. I do have to say though, my tummy skin changes colors all the time--especially around my belly button...one day it's red and blotchy, the next it looks almost purple...I think naked maternity pictures are out.

Belly button in or out: hmmm...it's slowing folding itself out as my belly expands, so everyday I see a little bit more of what the inside of my belly button really looks like. Besides being a bit creepy, I have a feeling someone squished my umbilical cord stub with a tight diaper when I was a newborn and created a rather asymmetrical, convoluted inside. I wonder who I should thank for this...

Wardrobe situation: I admit that in the picture my jeans look like the ones I've been trying to retain for the past 6 weeks, and it's true, I used the rubber-band trick today. If this says anything, I promptly changed into sweats the moment I got home. So, as I said last week...no mint chocolate chip ice cream for 2 days. This restriction will definitely find me at the tailors in no time.

Sleep: Baby girl still wakes up quite a bit throughout the night, but it's been a little more erratic this past week. Leg cramps have subsided somewhat, but with the exit of leg cramps have entered back and shoulder aches. Really miss Joon's mid-night massages.

Best moment this week: Winning a Dean's Award for my work in residency education and community engagement for the university :)! Although these ivory tower events have never really been my thing, it was nice to be recognized.

Movement: Baby girl is up most mornings when I am eating breakfast (Cherrios with blueberries and orange juice really get her squirming) and in the late afternoons to let me know she's getting hungry again. I've started to notice more kicks throughout the day when I'm moving around, so she must be getting stronger. Good to know she is practicing for soccer tryouts already.

Food cravings/aversions: Olallieberry scones with Devonshire cream--thank you Fox and Goose for indulging me this weekend :).

What I miss: BBQ tuna and Bob's roll from Mikuni (MJ, can we please go the moment I exit L & D??)

Mood: Happy and really enjoying the 2nd trimester. Glucose results in next week, hope all okay. I'm not sure I'm ready to give up mint chocolate chip ice cream and my weekly trips to Freeport Bakery.

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing Joon on March 22nd! So excited he will be joining us for my 30th and staying for a whole week!

24 Weeks

And as my grandfather pointed out, "you're now reaching the region of viability." Thanks papa. He always did have a way with words. I know I know, I skipped week 23. Trust me, I look exactly the same: big and round...I'm starting to believe its possible for me to actually turn into a roly poly. Though, my recent completion of "Metamorphosis" by Kafka may have influenced that thought somewhat. Below is my 24 week shot. Since baby girl's ears are formed, she can hear a lot of what's going on in our outside world...including music. So, I put together a little compilation for her that includes some of mommy and daddy's favorite artists...a little Counting Crows (the old stuff), Radiohead, Jay-Z, Mana (I have this unrealistic hope that via musical osmosis our baby girl will become bilingual), Simon and Garfunkel, Pink Floyd, Jay Nash, Neil Young, Cat Stevens, Lupe Fiasco, Tracy Chapman, and the list goes on. And, of course, she really kicks to "Another Brick in the Wall"...I was afraid of this. Something tells me she might be a lot like her mommy.

How far along? 24 weeks!

How is she growing: Size of a bademjan!!! (bademjan = eggplant in farsi)

Weight gain so far: Up 12 lbs

Stretch marks? None so far. But I confess I've been inconsistent this week about applying my belly butter. I hear the key is the opposite of that, so I really do need to be more on top of it. My husband used to do it for me, so maybe subconsciously I avoid it sometimes since it makes me miss him more.

Belly button in or out: still in.

Wardrobe situation: Okay, the jury is really not out on this one anymore...I MUST give up my jeans. It has now gone from "indecent exposure" to "incredibly painful and uncomfortable". If I am not in new jeans by next week, I promise to give up mint chocolate chip ice cream for 3 full days. Okay 2 full days.

Sleep: Baby girl wakes up (almost on the dot) at 4am everyday ready to take on the world. Because the kicking really wakes me up too, I end up actually being my most productive. This morning from 4 - 5am I washed all the dishes, picked up my room, and sent work emails.

Best moment this week: Getting a much needed haircut and enjoying a clean room. Thanks baby girl for keeping mommy productive!

Movement: ...and still lots of it! I love watching her gymnastics from the outside. It looks like my belly is popping a whole bag of popcorn.

Food cravings/aversions:Anything sweet, but I've been pretty good about eating healthy. Well, except for my occasional mint chocolate chip ice cream scoop. Twice a day is occasional, right?

What I miss: Spicy food and my darling joon.

Mood: Happy most days, but still get pretty sad when I think about how much I miss being held by my husband and how much he is missing out on...

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing Joon again in March and holding our baby girl in June! Oh, and turning 30! Yes, I am looking forward to being a year older...my 20s are done, I am ready for a new decade. I have a feeling it will be the best one yet :).

22 Weeks

So I'm a few days late for my update, began week 23 yesterday--though technically, if I think really hard about it, I am just now 22 full weeks, right? I suppose that would happen at the end of the 22nd week. huh. This baby stuff is all very confusing. Anyway, have some sad news--no hike through the smog to the HOLLYWOOD sign :(! My sister's friend (the organizer) had a last minute meeting with a client and called off the hike. So instead of going on the health-promoting 50 minute ascend, my husband and I went to Melrose for a yummy breakfast of french toast...battered, dipped in cornflakes and grilled (to perfection!). It was heaven on a plate. A fabulous way to ring in week 22...

Picture taken at my husband's cafe. The scale shows how much our baby girl weighs already--she's getting so big! We're so excited to meet her in just a few short months!

How far along? 22 weeks!

How is she growing: Almost a pound and a half!

Weight gain so far: 10 lbs (well, from the weight I lost in the first trimester--thank you morning sickness, makes the number more like 16 lbs--thank you red vines)

Stretch marks? None so far. I am addicted to my Bella B Honey Tummy Butter, but I have a feeling it won't make a difference either way. 

Belly button in or out: still in.

Wardrobe situation: I really need to let go of my favorite jeans, the rubber band trick went from "great idea" to "indecent exposure"...I think next week I will finally be hemming my maternity jeans. I can still pull off some of my t-shirts, but looking at this picture that also seems debatable.

Sleep: Outside of excruciating leg cramps halfway through the night, sleeping pretty well. Just miss my husband by my side.

Best moment this week: spending time with Joon, my sister, and brother-in-law this past weekend.

Movement: ...and lots of it! She does go through phases--some days she's super active and some days she's pretty quiet. Seeing and feeling her acrobatics from the outside is pretty amazing.

Food cravings/aversions: Sweets! Anything with sugar makes me drool these days. I wasn't so great at ignoring the bowl of skittles on the reception desk in my office a few weeks ago, but I'm doing a lot better now--I actually ate a salad! Vegetables are still pretty unattractive, but outside of that, have not had many aversions.

What I miss: Sushi, soft cheeses, and medium-rare steak--All of my favorite foods seem to fall on the no-no list for pregnancy. I'm already planning my meals for after baby girl arrives--I have a scary feeling most of my weight gain may come in the couple weeks after she arrives. I will really need to learn some self control. 

Mood: happy, anxious for her arrival, and sometimes sad when I think about how far away my husband is and that he's missing watching her grow.  I guess that's where the blog comes in :).

What I'm looking forward to: Seeing Joon again in March and holding our baby girl in June!