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Month by Month... SO FAR!

Since I completely suck at updating Connor's monthly picture as well as his stats on this ole bloggy... I decided to just do a quick update to get everything current. I have all of his stats written in his baby book, and I am pretty sure no one really cares what size diapers he is currently wearing and his head circumference... please correct me if I am wrong... 

Fall Recap

 Wow... hello, long time no see... so as much as I try and say I am going to post more on this blog, and how I am going to keep up and really get into it, for some reason, it just doesn't work out. So... I did a little revamping to my site. Nothing too fancy, just a little bit of a fresh update and I will leave you with some photos are my little baby that seems to be growing a mile a minute!

We took Connor to a small pumpkin patch just for the memories for mommy and daddy. He had no idea what was going on. 

 He also had his first swing experience. He seemed to enjoy it even though he is still a bit too small =) 

It was still like 85 degrees the day we took him to the pumpkin patch so that is why his little toesies are hanging out. Apparently it doesn't cool down in Texas until like December.

For Halloween we didn't do anything crazy. I think Connor is still too young and has many years ahead of him to enjoy this holiday. He did, however, receive plenty of cute halloween outfits from his grandmas so we did play dress up and have a photo shoot...

He had a cute little candy corn hat, but his noggin was a bit too big for that =(

Until next time... thanks for stoppin' by!!

Connor's Birth Story... Part 1...

My little baby Connor is now 4 months+. I think I have finally got a grip on this whole new mom title and everything that goes along with it. I figured before life gets anymore crazy I should type out the day my sweet baby boy came into this world. It is still currently fresh in my brain, and sometimes I replay that day in my head and the days following over and over.

But first here is a little back information...

Me in San Antonio April 7th - 34 weeks prego

My official due date was to be May 18th which landed on a Friday this year. I thought for sure I would go beyond this date, because typically, that is was happens your first time around. I was nervous because my doctor {who assured me from the get go would be the one to deliver my baby} so conveniently told me at my second to last appointment that he had to be out of town that weekend and to rest assure his replacement would be prepared to deliver my baby if I were to go into labor. That is exactly what a very pregnant woman wants to hear... that I have gone through this whole pregnancy with you as my doctor, but there is a chance that you will not be the one delivering my baby... gee THANKS! I didn't really worry about that too much, because in my mind at that point my motto was "it is what it is."

I am blessed to say that I had a very easy pregnancy. I never got really sick in the beginning and didn't have any complications, concerns, weird test results throughout the whole nine months. At the last ultrasound appointment where they took a 3D or 4D whatever it is picture of the little guy which I think was like 34 weeks... he was already measuring to be 6lbs! I was semi relieved because at this point I had began to BLOW up so it made sense. But what made me nervous was if he was 6lbs already and he hasn't even reached the part where he grows the most, how much will he weigh at birth?! At this point... I am thinking that there is no way I will be able to push this baby out on my own!

Anyways... that being said about my easy pregnancy... the last two weeks of being pregnant were a mess! I had gotten orders to be on bed rest from the doctor so I left work and stayed home waiting for the baby. For some reason at this point I was constantly thirsty! (If anyone else experienced this please let me know) And when I say constantly thirsty I mean I pretty much was consuming some sort of liquid 24/7. I would literally fill up jugs of water and chug them down like a frat boy at a kegger. It wasn't just water... it was gatorade, MILK, soda, juice! You name it, I was drinking it. I got bored with water, so my favorites were chocolate milk and gatorade. When I wasn't drinking I was peeing! LOL I don't think I slept longer than 2 hours at a time the last two weeks... it was insane! I was finishing up the spring semester of school with an online final that was timed and I thought I would never finish because I kept having to get up and go to the bathroom! And to top it off... I couldn't walk!

Yes.. people warned me about the sciatic nerve pain. How debilitating and painful it was. I figured a little discomfort, no biggie, I can handle that... I waddle everywhere already! BUT OMG! The pain I had in my left hip/leg was unreal! I couldn't walk! The last few days of my pregnancy I was crawling up the stairs. I made my final grocery run before going into labor and I had to use the cart as a walker. After I loaded the groceries (which consisted of 90% liquids for me to devour by lunchtime) I burst into tears from the pain. At that point I told myself I was sitting put until this huge little nugget decided to come out.

So this is pretty much the weeks/days leading up to the day. I will never forget how much I drank in a matter of 2 weeks! My husband and I still joke about it and he is just amazed at what he witnessed. He knew I was back to normal when he started finding half drunken beverages throughout our house.

This concludes part 1 of my birth story. I didn't anticipate sharing this part, but I think it is vital for the rest of the story. Please stay tuned for part 2... and possibly 3? Not sure.

=)Rachel

Wordless Wednesdays

=) Rachel

Two Months {Baby}

Two Month Stats:

Height: 

Birth: 19 1/2 

2Weeks: 20 3/4

2Months: 24 1/4

Weight:

 Birth: 9lbs 

2Weeks 9.6lbs 

1Month: 11.4 lbs  

(per our home scale, not 100% accurate)

2Months: 14.3

Hair color: 

Light brown/blonde

Eye color: 

still dark blue

Clothing size:

You are too big for your 0-3 month clothes. 3 Month clothes fit just perfect and I started bringing out 3-6 months, but I don't think you are ready for those quite yet.

Sleep:

You have become much more consistent when it comes to your sleeping schedule. After your last feeding which can be anywhere between 11:30 and 12:30 you go to sleep and sleep through the night!! You usually wake up between 6 and 7:30 in the morning. The other day you even slept until 8:15am!! I can't quite get you on a consistent nap schedule, but you do tend to always have an afternoon nap around 3-5pm. 

Eating:

I stopped nursing you at the end of this month. I wanted to make it longer,  but I am proud of myself for making it this far. We made the decision that this was the best thing. You are a good eater and unfortunately I couldn't keep you full!! So you are now eating 5 oz. every 3 hours and then you are able to go the long stretch at night. 

Random Milestones:

This month you have really began to smile and laugh. You smile at everything, but you especially love ceilings! You are still doing really well on your tummy and when we carry you, you are able to hold your head almost completely on your own. I tried putting you in your bumbo chair, but it is not for you quite yet.

Favorite activity:

Granny and Papa from Houston sent us home with a play mat that lights up and plays music and you really enjoy that. You are slowly becoming more interested in your toys. You definetly enjoy listening music. 

Firsts:

First Houston visit

First Trip to Babies R US

First trip to the mall

One Month {baby}

As I start typing this... it is 3:30am and you just got done eating (at least I think you are done - you could wake up any second screaming for more) and you are laying in my arms. I cannot believe it has been a month since you came into this world. You have already changed so much and are growing into a little man b4 my eyes. Our days fly by and I am still not quite sleeping enough so I want to make sure I don't forget a thing! You have changed my life so much in the past month and I cannot imagine my life without you. As much as I cannot wait for you to grow and watch you change, I don't want you to get big. You are the biggest cuddle monster and I could literally spend the entire day holding you and cuddling you. We are so blessed to have you in our lives and love you so much! Happy 1 month birthday Connor!
Love, Mommy & Daddy

One Month Stats:

Height: 

Birth: 19 1/2 

2Weeks: 20 3/4

Weight:

 Birth: 9lbs 

2Weeks 9.6lbs 

1Month: 11.4 lbs  

(per our home scale, not 100% accurate)

Hair color: 

Light brown/blonde

Eye color: 

still dark blue

Clothing size:
Can still fit into Newborn if he wants to look like a member of the Jersey Shore cast, 0-3 months fits perfectly, but he can fit into his 3 month clothes with a little extra room to spare.

Sleep:

You are still all over the place when it comes to sleeping. I can't quite get you to be consistent. One thing I can say is that whenever you are in my arms you fall asleep very quickly. You had one night last week where you slept the entire night. Sad thing is, I did not. You do not like to be swaddled anymore, so I always worry you are never warm enough, but you are. You have started to stay awake for most of the day with only two real big naps. And slowly you are sleeping for longer stretches at night. 

Eating:

You are an eating machine! My plan was to EBF and my first goal was to make it 8 weeks. Well, you lost 10% birth weight at about 4 days after you were born, so I was instructed to supplement formula after each feeding. After getting your weight back up and meeting with a LC I went back to EBF. At your 2 week check up your weight was up to 9.6lbs! Yay! But after or during your 3 week growth spurt, you just were not getting satisfied with my BM alone. We would spend hours on feedings and you would eat every 2 hours and just not get full. So now I am supplementing again. I am OK with that b/c the majority of your food is BM with a little formula to top you off. I want you to be full and happy and if that means you need to eat formula too, that is what we will do! So, for now you are BF and FF. Not sure what the future will bring. 

Random Milestones:

You are a very strong baby. You love to grip and hold on to whatever you can get a hold of (mostly my hair!!) You are able to hold your head up for a short period of time when we do tummy time. If I would let you, I am sure you would try and hold your bottle on your own. You also LOVE to look at the world around you. I catch you being mesmerized by whatever is catching your eye. You LOVE ceiling fans and the painting that is hanging in our living room. You are able to recognize mine and dad's voices. Whenever your dad comes home your head perks up and tries to find where he is. (you did that in my stomach too... you would always move to where his voice was and kick) I catch you smiling (even though I know they are not true smiles yet, I love them just the same) Grandma swears she hears you laugh... but I don't believe it. You stretch your vocal cords at every chance you get... I have a feeling you are going to be a talker! Of course everything you do, I think is amazing! =)

Favorite activity:

You love to be in your swing! I wish we had a swing in every room so I didn't have to move it around so much. It is the only way I can get a shower in without you going nuts!   You also LOVE music. Grandma plays the baby Einstein play list on Pandora, and that seems to get you to calm down. Your dad bought a horse that is black and white and vibrates when you pull on it, and that just fascinates you so much - which is good because it took him like an hour to pick it out! =) 

Firsts:

First doctors appointment

First real shot =(

First outing with mom

First crying breakdown in public (fun times!)

First bath

First blow out diaper (a story your dad and I will NEVER forget)

I still cannot believe you have been in our lives for one month! I am grateful for every second we spend together. I am trying to capture every second of our time together because the next thing you know - you will be off to college!

HAPPY ONE MONTH BIRTHDAY!!!

=) Rachel 

Stoppin' By to Say 'Hi'

The Last almost 4 weeks has been a crazy and wonderful journey! Needless to say my little guy has consumed 100% of my time - but since he is so adorable I cannot resist showing him off... so we just decided to come and say HI!!! 

Talk to ya'll soon!

=)Rachel (&Connor)

He's Here!!

Connor Joseph Donahue was born May 15th 2012 @ 4:36 p.m. Weighing in at 9lbs. and 19 1/2 inches long!!!

1 CM.!!~!!

Good Morning!

It is currently approx. 4:45 am and I am wide awake! =( not cool!!! But since I have exhausted all of my other forms of useless activities to occupy my time, I thought I would do something useful and BLOG! I know I went M.I.A. again... but as of today I am officially 37 WEEKS PREGGO!!! yay! The last month has been nothing but getting everything ready to go for this little guy... and yet I seem like I have nothing ready.

I am officially out of commission as far as work goes... we are now down to a one income family - which leads itself to a whole other set of issues and anxiety. But I know we will be just fine!

My mom, brother and I visited San Antonio back over Easter weekend... I don't think I have ever been so swollen in my life! I will share some pics of that event with y'all.

So... getting back to the title of this bloggie... which I am sure caught your attention because of its riveting creativity! I had a doctor's appointment on Wednesday (I am now down to the weekly doc appointments) and I found out that I am officially 1 Centimeter dilated! I don't know about you guys... but for me that feels like an accomplishment! The prior week there was no glimpse of any sort of progression, and a week later... ta da! 1 CM. I know that I can very well just stay this way up until I am full term, but as of right now I will take what I can get!

I just wanted to touch base with you guys and let you know I am still breathing... I will leave you with a little to-do list of things I should probably get done in the next 24 to 48 hours!

- Pack Baby Bag

- Pack Hospital Bag

- Install Car Seat 

- Wash ALL of baby's clothes and blankets

- Take as many naps as I can before baby arrives!

=) Rachel

1st Trimester.... or 3rd?!

So as I approach 34 weeks (hooray!) I am starting to feel like I have a case of Deja Vu!!! Waking up each morning takes a little more effort and it seems that I have a bad case of nausea each sunrise!!! hmmmm extra tired and nausea? This can't be... a repeat of the 1st trimester... yes, unfortunately IT IS!!! My 2nd trimester was a breeze!!! The worst part was when I caught a nasty head cold that knocked me on my booty for a couple of days... but this... this is much worse! I went to the doctor today and begged him to tell me that I have a high chance of going into labor next week!!!... YEAH RIGHT! I have no sign of contractions and my cervix hasn't budged AT ALL! It looks like I am in it for the long haul! I know I want my baby to cook for as long as he can... but you couldn't pay me to get up every morning and go to work! (oh wait, i guess i already do get paid to wake up and go to work)  I am so exhausted. 

We did however get to take one last peek at our little munchkin on the ultrasound... so far he is in the 73rd percentile weighing in at a major 6lbs!!!! This little man is not messing around! I am guessing by the time I give birth that he will be at least 8 lbs. I am shocked because this is my first baby and me and my husband were just around 7lbs at birth. I didn't think he would be that big. They gave us 3d ultrasound pics but our little guy didn't feel like cooperating (hmmm stubborn like his dad much) all the pics ended with parts of his cute little face covered by his arm. He did not want to come out and play. So I have another appointment in 2 weeks and then begins the once a weekers! I am so anxious for this little guy to come... we've read the books, took the classes and got his room almost 100% complete!

Have a good night!!

=)

Week.... 31!

OK.... So I am completely aware that the last time I did a Weekly update was from Week 28. But, I am not going to lie, I fell behind and instead of catching up, I am just going to start back up where I am right now. To be honest, I can't even remember the specifics from the previous weeks... they all seem to blend in together, so when I am answering the questions for week 31 I may incorporate things from Weeks 29 & 30 that I remember. =)

How far along? 31 Weeks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? Still mixing and matching maternity and non maternity... it is getting much warmer so I did pick up a few more warm weather maternity pieces so I am more comfortable
Stretch marks? None to report
Best moment of this week: Our Crib came this week, my in laws are visiting this weekend, so we will put it together then.
Miss Anything? Not really... I am able to sleep anywhere anytime for the most part and other than that I keep slowly and slowly getting bigger nothing has really changed
Movement: Yes... and now that he is getting bigger there will be times I look down at my tummy and it looks like there is a sea creature causing my stomach to make ripples and waves
Food Cravings: I have been craving sweets now more than usual... but nothing CrAzY
Anything making you queasy or sick: No... I still get a little nauseated in the morning if I wake up hungry.
Have you started to show yet: Um... Yes. And apparently I have gotten "REALLY BIG" ugh I love people's comments (NOT!!)
Gender: Boy... although in a few weeks I will have another ultrasound, so I will make them confirm that.
Labor Signs: No

Belly Button in or out? It is still in which I am very surprised/pleased about. It definitely has almost leveled out, but it is not protruding like through shirts or anything!! But definite alien type qualities.
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. But if I get really hot I have to soak my finger under ice water to get it off.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy... but now that delivery is creeping up I am very anxious and nervous
Looking Forward to: Getting the nursery 100% done. We have our last set of visitors this weekend, so we will remove the bed and start organizing and setting up the baby room! It will give me a little piece of mind.

I go back to the doctor later today. Usually I am spending more time in the waiting room than with my actual doctor. Nothing exciting to report. Everything is normal and perfect and nothing to be concerned about. I know that I should be completely grateful for this, but for some reason I just feel like if I am going to the doctor every other week now, shouldn't it be for a good reason. I have definitely become a pro and peeing in a cup that is for sure!! =)

I have like 5 posts that have been started... but not quite finished - so my goal for this weekend/early next week is to get some of those posted. I have received my first Blumm box and my second one is on its way...so I want to share all of my goodies with y'all and as well as the nursery progression. I have been taking pics so hopefully I can show you where we started and how far we have come!!! Sheesh! So much to do!!

58 More Days!!
But more importantly: 40 more Work days!!

 

=)Rachel

Random Belly Pic!

This picture is actually the one I talked about in the post below... I found it on my cell phone. It was originally taken back on January 29th. So my belly has grown quite a bit. Please don't mind the very serious look of concentration on my face! =) and you can take a peek at the stroller and car seat that we picked out as they create a wonderful back drop for this pic! LOL. I never said I was a photographer!!!

Hope you enjoy!!!

=) Rachel

Week 28!!!

How far along? 28 Weeks 6 days

Maternity Clothes? Yea I still mix and match maternity and non maternity

Stretch marks? Not that I can see.... 

Best moment of this week: Probably my parents visiting and getting the room painted... it looks AMAZING! I am very happy with it.

Miss Anything? Just my energy still... as I get farther along it seems to slowly diminish

Movement: YES YES YES... he has created a home on the right side of my tummy and plays jungle gym with my ribbies! Yikes

Food Cravings: Nothing out of the ordinary

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope

Have you started to show yet: Oh yea! I found a pic of me from late January and the change in belly size is Crrraaazzzzy!

Gender: Bouncing baby boy

Labor Signs: No

Belly Button in or out? In!!!

Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Gets a little tight after a long day.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy... but I will admit that I have my moments where I break down a little

Looking Forward to: This little nugget to make an appearance into the world...although i still have a long ways to

I promise I will spice up my posts! I was doing sooo well!! But I have pics that I want to post and it takes me forever to edit them and I have done some serious slacking... I am slowly trying to get all my weeks updated and posted!! 

=)Rachel

Week 27

How far along? 27 Weeks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? Yea - I finally invested in a belly band... not sure why it took me so long, but it definitely helps with the dress pants I have to wear to work.
Stretch marks? Nope - but I keep reading that a lot of people get them when they are actually having the baby, so I am not out of the woods yet.
Best moment of this week: Getting ready for my parents to visit.
Miss Anything? Just having a lot of nonstop energy... or at least drinking my sugar free red bulls that imitate that nonstop energy
Movement: Yes... as he is getting bigger and the available space for him is getting smaller I can feel him not just kick... but actually like move around, it's really cool. I wish I could see what he was actually doing in there.
Food Cravings: Nope
Anything making you queasy or sick: No
Have you started to show yet: Sheesh... I hope so, otherwise I have acquired some weird disease causing my stomach to expand
Gender: Still a Boy
Labor Signs: No
Belly Button in or out? In!!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Gets a little tight after a long day.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy... but full of anxiety
Looking Forward to: my parents visiting and finally turning our plain spare bedroom into a nursery!

=)Rachel

M.I.A.

Yikes! so the last week has been crazy! My parents came into town on Wednesday so all of my time has been devoted to hanging out with them and catching up - I haven't seen them since Thanksgiving!!

We were so lucky and thankful that while my parents were here they PAINTED THE BABIES ROOM!! I have before pictures of the walls/baby room so I will show the before and after!! Things are starting to slowly come together. We picked up a few more "essentials" for the little bundle.

Also... I received my first Bluum box in the mail last Wednesday, once I actually get a chance to really look at it, I will share it with all of you!

Hope everyone is having a great start to their week!

=) Rachel

Week 26!

I was so determined to get a picture up with this week's update... but sadly I did not!! My hubby promised to help me take a pic this weekend so I can add with next weeks!! So I am keeping my fingers crossed that actually happens!!

How far along? 26 Weeks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? Trying to wear my leggings as much as I can... and YES - I do wear my leggings as pants... I cover up my booty of course... but get over it!
Stretch marks? Not that I can find
Best moment of this week: When my husband was able to not just feel the little guy kick, but feel him actually moving around in my tummy.
Miss Anything? Not really...
Movement: Yes, Yes, YES! He is an active little guy, I am afraid I will have my hands full in a few months
Food Cravings: Not a single one =( I have recently started getting acid reflux, so I have been keeping an eye on what I am eating to see what causes it.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Not really... except for whatever is causing my terrible acid reflux... the nausea I was experiencing last week really hasn't bothered me this week, must have been a fluke thing.
Have you started to show yet: Yup.. I am still getting people that are now just realizing I am pregnant... um duh! Then I am getting the people that think they have known me my whole life and start talking to me about being preggers... ugh
Gender: Boy
Labor Signs: No
Belly Button in or out? It is still officially in!!! But it is definitely leveling out!!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Gets a little tight after a long day.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy... people at my work seem to think otherwise, but really I just don't want to be at work! (but who really does)
Looking Forward to: Him actually being here! I don't know if I can wait another 3 months!!! It feels like FOREVER!

I go to the doctor again next Friday and I will be taking the dreaded Glucose test... I have a morning appointment so I hope that works in my favor. I keep reading where people who you wouldn't think would fail have... so I just hope I pass... I really don't want to have to take the 3 hour test!!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend... I will be spending the majority of it painting and clearning to get ready for my parents' visit. If we get a nice chunk of the room painted I will post pics for you to see.. You will also be able to see what color we chose!!!

=)Rachel



Happy Valentine's Day!

So I know yesterday was actually Valentine's day... but instead of blogging, I thought it might be nice to enjoy our last "alone" Valentine's day with my hubby! We exchanged our small gifts (nothing crazy) and he made me his specialty! Chicken Kiev...

Sorry the picture isn't the greatest... But it was definitely YUMMY!!! He slaved in the kitchen and even offered to clean up!! He is the best!!

I hope everyone had a lovely Valentine's Day or Anti Valentine's Day whichever you prefer!!

=)Rachel

Sitting is Overrated!!

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Friday! I know I am excited for the weekend... I am hoping to accomplish a few things for the baby, however this work day cannot be over soon enough!!

Today marks the first day of week 26! In two weeks I will begin my third trimester (I think!?)... but I am pretty sure the symptoms of the third trimester have snuck up on me a little earlier... For some reason, today I just cannot sit still. I cannot seem to get comfortable in my work chair and find myself tossing and turning to find a comfy position. I feel the urge to get up and walk around like every 5 MINUTES!!! It is driving me insane! Baby D must have had a growth spurt over night because I just feel so uncomfortable!! He is also VERY VERY active today! One minute he is up by ribs treating them like punching bags, the next he is in my lower pelvis kicking me! This is not helping at all when it comes to getting comfortable!

I had mentioned in my weekly update that I have been feeling slight nausea in the morning... and this morning was no better. When I went to brush my teeth I am pretty sure I gaged like 5 times. NOT COOL.

I have been blessed thus far to have had a smooth pregnancy with no real complaints... I think I might have spoke too soon. =) I am hoping these last three months fly by as fast as the first three months!

Thank goodness for Pinterest... it always know the right things to say...

 I might treat myself to a yummy cupcake this weekend!!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

=)Rachel

Week 25

I must say (<- when I read this line back over I added a British accent, just sayin')... doing these posts every week sort of is making the time go by faster... Every time I turn around I have to remember to post my weekly updates!!

How far along? 25 Weeks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? Definitely making my way to mainly maternity tops. I am trying to wear leggings as much as possible, but I do have a few pairs of maternity pants I have to wear to work.
Stretch marks? Not that I know of. I am pretty sure I will wake up one morning and be mortified with a stretch mark discovery
Best moment of this week: We bought our little guy's bedding... in fact I think it is waiting for me when I get home. Any decision that we can make and act on is a major deal!!!
Miss Anything? The occasional glass of wine after a long day... but I will survive!
Movement: Always. It seems that when I am up and moving a lot he is holding on for dear life and not moving, but the second I sit down he is flying around my stomach.
Food Cravings: I can't believe I forgot this before... but I have been craving Dr. Pepper like crazy! I know it is like the worst craving to have, and I didn't really drink a lot of before I was pregnant, but lately an ice cold glass of Dr. Pepper is better than anything.
Anything making you queasy or sick: No, but the last couple days I have been waking up with a slight case of nausea. I am not sure if it is b/c I'm really hungry or what... but I don't like it.
Have you started to show yet: Yes.. in fact today, I had a lady that works on the same floor as me come up and say "wow I thought you were just gaining weight... I just realized you are actually pregnant" .... UM WOW - THANKS LADY? some ppl are unbelievable and need to keep their comments to themselves.
Gender: Boy
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out? Ha! Still In! I thought for sure it would pop this week... I didn't even want to look at it incase it would pop out that very second!!
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Doesn't seem to be getting tight yet.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy... things are slowly but surely coming together, so it is making me feel more at ease.
Looking Forward to: The little guy's arrival. Even tho he is punching me everyday, it still doesn't feel real... I can't wait until he is actually here so I can hold him and cuddle with him.

My parents will be visiting in a couple weeks...and finally the room will be painted. After that is done we will be able to begin to arrange the room according to our plan. We will still have at least one more round of guests before baby D comes, so the full size bed will have to stay which kind of puts a big road block in the room coming together. I guess since he will be in our room for the first few months anyways - I guess it doesn't really matter.

I really want to post a pic of my ever growing baby bump... but the only camera I have right now is on my phone. (my regular camera was either lost or stolen @ my wedding... I know, nice! right?) so they just aren't turning out how I want them too. But, I will try to get the hubby to help me and see if I can't get one posted up here before it disappears! (Courtney - don't worry I will get a pic for you!)

=)Rachel

Another New Discovery...

So apparently, the last few weeks I have been devoted to finding cool new things I can join for when Baby Donahue comes. One of my guilty pleasures is to keep up on celebrity gossip. Whether it be watching a T.V. show like E! News, or visiting People 's website for the latest on the celebrities. So... of course I was all ears when the lovely Jessica Alba was promoting her new company: The Honest Company.

For the entire story and details about The Honest Company... you can visit their website HERE. This company basically gives you an ecofriendly and healthy alternative to diapers and baby care products. As a FTM I have been researching and learning more and more about the different diaper options for my baby. It is actually quite overwhelming. At first I have been debating on whether or not I want to use cloth diapers. In theory this concept is perfect. You are not allowing your child to sit in chemicals all day and it also allows for some serious cash savings. But... realistically, am I going to be wanting to clean off poopie diapers and keep on top of laundry that frequently when I am already trying to learn and do so many things?! I don't know what the answer is... I guess I will have to wait and see how it goes after the little guy is here.

So when I came across Jessica Alba's new product line... it was a great alternative and I figured I would give it a try. The diapers are eco-friendly and nontoxic, they come in adorable patterns for both boys & girls, and they are not crazy expensive. (At least I don't think they are... I don't quite know how much the average monthly total for diaper expense is YET) They are also DISPOSABLE!

They offer a free sample of both the diapers and what they refer to as the Family Essentials (shampoo, body wash, lotions...etc.) just pay shipping and handling - which isn't that much, I can't remember the number exactly. So, duh, of course I ordered that. I received my package last week... and I must say I am quite impressed. Now, clearly, my baby is not here yet. So, I don't have any actual knowledge of how well they  work for baby. But, as a first impression goes, I LIKE.

I am definitely going to be getting at least one monthly supply of the new born size (up to 10lbs) to start off with. I will probably hold off on the Essentials Kit and put a hold on the diapers after that and wait until after the little one arrives and see how he likes them.

Until then... here are some pics on what the trial packages look like...

If you still are not sure about diaper options for your child, I would definitely recommend just trying the trial version of these products. It can't hurt, right?

If anyone has tried these or knows someone who has tries these and wants to share their opinion... please do so in the comments...!

=)Rachel

*Photo of the day*

Mid Morning Snack...

*Monday Moments*

So Now that Monday has so disgustingly returned.. I have some random Monday Moments to share

• I forgot to bring my cell phone charger/headphones to work!! - This means I am forced to listen to people slurping their drinks and coughing ALL day! It also means I cannot obsessively check my FB and Twitter feeds until I get home! Oh and did I mention, having to actually log into my email to check it?! Ugh! What a Bummer!! hehehe
• Being too large to fit into any of my work clothes. Do yoga pants count as Business casual?? I guess I will have to break down and find some more maternity work options!
• My Husband has to work late... so now I have the option of being a good wife and pick up around the house when I get home from work, maybe do some laundry and get dinner started so it is ready when he walks in... Reality: come home change into comfy clothes and fall asleep while watching The Big Bang Theory {I L.O.V.E. that show!}
• Going OVER and OVER in my head all the things left to do for the baby... 
•  Buy crib - Paint room -Attend birthing classes - Look for cute room ideas and decor on Pinterest - Make sure I actually know how to put the carseat in .... The list goes on and on and it consumes my brain!
• Thinking about how I have to repaint my finger nails as I slowly chip more and more polish off

I guess I can chalk this day up to ... just another Monday ... in my book! If baby Donahue arrives on time I only have about 14 more Mondays to go. For some reason, that isn't that comforting!!

I hope everyone else is having a smooth Monday!! Tomorrow is always a new day! (My bit of positive attitude toward the end of a generally negative blogpost!) 

Until then I am going to cheat a little and divulge in some Caffeine.

=)Rachel

Fun Discovery!

Good Afternoon....
So if you scroll down my page a little, you will see that I was once upon a time subscribed to BirchBox. And... to be honest I miss it a little! =( The reason I stopped my subscription was because the baby is coming soon and I thought as a responsible parent, I could be using the $10 a month on something for my little boy I enjoy everything about Birchbox and when the time is right, I will definetly reactivate my subscription. In the meantime...  enter BLUUM.

I was browsing the internet like I usually do, and I came across either a 'Pin' or someone on Twitter, I can't remember for sure who had mentioned their Blumm box. Of course, I had to check it out.



Picture from here.



And ta da... it is the equivalent of birchbox for Moms & Babies. From what I can tell, it looks like this is a fairly new product. It seems to follow the same concept as Birchbox. Each month you receive a box full of deluxe samples of various products for you and your baby.

So if you are a new mom, or expectant mom, or know someone who is ready to have a baby, I would strongly recommend looking into this company. It is a great way to discover products for your baby that you normally would not have access to. Who knows, maybe your baby gets irritated by some products and this box will hold the solution to that!

My first box ships out February 17th... I can't wait!! I will def share my goodies with all of you!!

Happy Friday!
=)Rachel

Week 24!

So another week has come and gone... and I am one week closer to the BIG DAY!

How far along? 24 Wks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? More and more maternity tops. I can't quite get away with non maternity tops at work anymore - and I am living in my leggings and yoga pants when I am hanging around the house.
Stretch marks? No sign of any yet... I have a feeling I have some in places I can't even see anymore. But I have been a slave to my Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Balm!
Best moment of this week: I think we have a name picked out!! Not 100% sure but about 95%!
Miss Anything? Not really... I have been able to do and eat pretty much everything I did before I was pregnant. (minus the obvious things of course!!)
Movement: He slowed down in the beginning of the week, which made me nervous, but the last couple of days he has been very very active! He favors the right side of my body.
Food Cravings: No =(
Anything making you queasy or sick: No
Have you started to show yet: YES!!! I must have had a growth spurt too because ppl are commenting on how much bigger I have become (which I GUESS I will take as a compliment)
Gender: Little Baby Boy
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out? IN!!... But I might not be that lucky next week!
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Doesn't seem to be getting tight yet.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happyish... still stressing about a few things, hopefully once decisions have been made I can relax and be happy all the time
Looking Forward to: Painting still. I thought we had the color picked out, but I am just not sure!! I want it to be perfect so I am being very picky about this paint color!

This week has been quieter than others as far as prepping for the baby. We still need to make some large purchase decisions. I think I went a little crazy on baby clothes when I first found out the sex, so I am trying not to buy a lot because I don't want to buy things that he will never even get to wear!

Favorite Nonmaternity Maternity Piece

Happy Monday! (ugh where did the weekend go?)



Every morning when I wake up... I dread getting ready. Since adding a few inches around the waste band, my cute and stylish clothing choices have slowly dwindled. All of the cute maternity clothes are so expensive it is crazy! I have no problem spending a little extra on clothes, but I want it to be on something I can wear for longer than 4 more months. My go-to top for my crazy weekends of running around getting ready for the baby definetly has to be my Vicotoria's Secret PINK Essential V-neck Tee!

If you are not familiar with this T-shirt ~ The fit is already a bit long and oversized. But that is why I love it! I have a long torso and this T is the perfect length for my personal liking. Because it has a comfy baggy fit, it is perfect for my ever growing belly! It also can be dressed up with large statement pieces of jewlery or down with a casual scarf and still look cute. I am a huge fan of the V-neck T for guys and girls, and I am a super fan of this V.S. one. I have gone back a few time through this pregnancy to pick up more and more of these T's. I finally caved the last time and went a size up, but only because I wanted to make sure I could rock this T all the way until the end. Bonus: I can keep wearing this T after I am preggers!!! 

=)Rachel

Baby Room Paint Color

The moment we found out we were having a baby I started looking at nursery room ideas. I am so thankful for the amazing resource known as PINTEREST! Without it I wouldn't have even known where to begin on ideas as to how to decorate and organize etc... One thing that I knew from the very beginning... was the paint color. Luckily my color of choice just so happens to be right on trend... gray (or grey... I'm not sure). I have been in love with the color for as long as I can remember. Forget the pinks, and blues... I have always been a gray kinda girl. So, when given the chance, of course I am going to paint my first child's room gray. Now... out of the 1 million shades of gray out there... which one to pick? We have narrowed it down to 4 different grays...

Photo taken by phone, so it isn't the greatest!

So now we have the daunting task of making a final decision. Our son's bedroom has a lot of wall space, so the problem is making sure the color we choose isn't too overwhelming! I think the finalists will be the top two. We have about a month to make the final decision. My parents are coming down to visit and we are enlisting their help with painting! Hopefully by then we will have come to a conclusion. Once the painting is done, the room will be on its way to becoming a nursery.

Stay tuned for more!!! 

=)Rachel

Week 23!

Since I have been away from blogging for quite sometime, I thought I would get up to speed with my pregnancy. I have seen this done on other blogs and I really enjoy reading them. It is also a good way to keep track of the things that are happening during pregnancy. Especially when 'pregnancy brain' steps in and you can't remember what you were even doing!

How far along? 23 Wks 6 days
Maternity Clothes? Some... I am still in mostly nonmaternity clothes, but my pants def don't button all the way!
Stretch marks? No sign of any yet...
Best moment of this week: Making our first big purchase decision on the stroller and car seat! YAY!!
Miss Anything? Not really... I have been able to do and eat pretty much everything I did before I was pregnant.
Movement: All of the time! I caught him jamming to Nicki Minaj in the car one time
Food Cravings: Not really, one of the ladies at my work keeps Starburst at her desk and I have been known to grab a couple of those from time to time
Anything making you queasy or sick: No
Have you started to show yet: YES!!!
Gender: Boy
Labor Signs: This is my first baby, so even if I were having them, I probably wouldn't know.
Belly Button in or out? IN!!! But it is on the verge of atleast leveling off... I hope that is as far as it goes =)
Wedding rings on or off? Still on. Doesn't seem to be getting tight yet.
Happy or Moody most of the time: I would like to say that I am Happy most of the time... but I am starting to get more uncomfortable... so that causes me to become Moody! =)
Looking Forward to: Painting and setting up the baby's room. I have these grand ideas in my head... I hope it turns out how I picture it!

I had a doctor's appointment this week and everything is on track! I get to take my glucose test next week... I am sort of dreading that!!

Interesting fact: After you reach 24 weeks, if preterm labor occurs the baby has an amazing chance of survivial.

I pray that does not happen, but it is good to know that incase something does happen this baby will still be OK!

=) Rachel

I am back in full force!

Ok... So I know that I have been away from blogging for quite sometime. I started to get used to the ida of blogging and finally gained a good focus... beauty and fashion and everyday things... then I got married on August 20th and shortly there after... SURPRISE! We found out we were pregnant! So after coming down from our honeymoon high... we were sent on another crazy adventure of finding out we were preggers! Because this was going to be something completely new for my husband and I, I thought, well maybe I should change my blog into something more family orientated and share my pregnancy experiences and what life is like with a newborn. So that is my new goal. Because we don't live close to any family, it will also give our family and friends a way to see how the pregnancy is going and what is happening. I won't be posting any ultrasound pictures because my husband is very protective of our little one, but I will give you a little peek into my pregnancy so far!!

So with that being said... I hope to post on here a couple times a week. Things are so crazy that I am trying to document them as they happen and then hopefully share them!!!

Thanks for taking the time to read this and I hope you look forward to more of me and my family's new adventure!

=)Rachel

P.S. If you think my blog is kinda interesting and you can't wait to see what I have instore and you have a blog as well... please subscribe, that way I am not always talking to myself! =) thanks!

***Under Construction***

SO MANY NEW LIFE CHANGES. I AM IN THE PROCESS OF REORGANIZING AND REFOCUSING MY BLOG! SEE YOU SOON!

TO BE CONTINUED...