Week 26

After a crazy busy weekend running around to parties, soccer games and dinners I've now caught a cold and feel like total crap. I am looking forward to a weekend when Steve and I can just lounge at home and not make plans with anyone. At least this weekend we have our bebemoon at a nice Bed and Breakfast on Lake Waramaug. We are going to get pampered, eat good food and just enjoy each other. Hopefully we will both start feeling better before the trip.

Little Max decided to kick the crap out of me one night this week, as if my belly were a punching bag. Steve was next to me so I told him to put his hand on my belly, and he too was surprised at how strong it was. His face lit up he was so excited to REALLY feel him. It is an amazing experience, even though my anterior placenta still makes it difficult at times.
It seems as though my adorable hubby has decided to practice pushing around an invisible baby in our new stroller, because I have caught him on numerous occasions pushing the bugaboo around the apartment lol Too cute! He also got all of Max's clothing out and put them together for washing. We are slowly but surely getting our act together.

We had dinner with my father and a friend of the family last night. It's so cute to see "grandpa" get so excited for Max's arrival. Both he and his friend decided that the name we have picked out for our son is too long and we must put "MAX" on the birth certificate. Steve and I weighed that option, but decided against it. It's only four letters longer than Stevent, and no problem whatsoever for us to write. So we are sticking to the name we have chosen for our son.
Our next doctors appointment is in ten days, I can't wait, I want to see him again and know everything is okay. I have my gestational diabetes test that day, which I'm not looking forward to, hopefully I'll pass!

26 Week Belly Picture

Baby's soaking up your antibodies, getting her immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and she'll soon be practicing the blink...perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.

How far along? 26 weeks 2 Days
Total weight gain/loss: total 23 pounds
Body Changes? Just gaining weight all over...someone in the office said my legs were huge, just what I wanted to hear haha
Sleep: Can't get enough of it. Sadly my weekend didn't allow for much sleep which would explain why I got the flu. Luckily my fever was just shy of having to go to the hospital. MIssed two days of work though urghhh.
Best moment this week: Joining BuyDirect and knowing that we can now afford to buy what we want.
Gender: Team Pean.
Food Cravings: Pink Lemonade.
What I miss: Being able to take medications when sick. This is the worst I've felt.
Symptoms: Headaches, backaches and now the flu.
What I am looking forward to: Our bebe moon this weekend...took friday off and so we are heading to Lake Waramaug for the weekend. We are also looking at houses and land on Friday!
Milestones: Got a top of the line stroller for almost half the price!

Babies R Us Coupons PDF inside

I dont know how to make it so you can click on it, but here are the new Babies R Us Coupons, valid 8/28-9/17.

http://trus.imageg.net/graphics/corp/082809-bru-cpns-email.pdf?EDID=4GLU57-IEMVV-H9MPHM-K926QY-HNJ3M-v1

The Hunt for a Stroller

Craigslist...I just love that word. After my husband and I decided to get the bugaboo bee (the cheapest of the three designs but still $$$) I went on craigslist to see what was out there. Lo and behold I come across an add for the Cameleon which is the elite top of the line stroller. Someone was selling two new ones for the price of the bee. I was floored, and of course immediately called and said i was interested. A few hours later he got back to me and said he could drop it off later...of course I was a bit skeptical and decided to tell him to meet me at work. I called Steve up and told him to get the money and meet me since there was no way I was going to meet this guy alone.

So the time finally comes and I'm waiting and waiting...no call, nothing. I'm pissed at this point, not understanding what kind of a scam is being pulled. I call him and leave a not so nice message telling him I don't appreciate being scammed and head on home. I was really bummed because I wanted that stroller. So the next morning I get back on craigslist, flag the add a few times and look for some other bargains. Of course nothing. Three o'clock my phone rings at work...and to my surprise it's the guy from the day before. He was soooooo apologetic, explaining he had gotten into a car accident and felt awful. He said if I still wanted it he would come right now. Of course I still wanted it, and so he came.

Steve and I met him, and two of his thugs outside in his BMW (that had been smashed up) and made the transaction after inspecting the unopened boxes. He couldn't have been nicer and explained he had gotten three as a gift and kept one. As we were saying good-bye he goes "And if you need any furniture or anything you see online call me, I can get it for you!" Hmmm...I don't even want to know :)

Steve put the stroller together when we got home and it is awesome. I am so happy we were able to find such a great bargain by doing some research. Wonder what else I can find on Craigslist :)

Week 25

Another great week has passed. Steve and I had a wonderful time in the Hampton's with 9 of our friends. Many of them have dogs so there were six dogs at the house which was great for Daisy and Chloe. We sold our apartment this week and are officially in contract. Our approximate closing date is October 10th which we are hoping can be pushed forward a bit. We would like to move into a rental which we have yet to find by October 1st. Big question is will we stay in NYC for one last year or move to CT...that is something that we are still figuring out. I'm just reallyyyyy looking forward to moving and getting the nursery set up! Realizing we are only three months away from our lil man's arrival is a bit stressful and I'd just like to get all our ducks in order.

Maximiliano didn't kick so much these past few days but he was back in action last night once we got into bed to watch our Sunday night shows. Steve and I are in total bliss being together on weekends and both can't get enough of each other...well let me revise that...my poor hubs wanted to call Bellevue on me yesterday when I got into a tizzy because I was so hungry I could barely think straight (in my defense it was 4pm and all I had eaten for the day was a croissant and a yogurt)Every pregnant woman knows as soon as hunger strikes, it strikes FAST and HARD. Once I stormed out to get myself a salad we wandered over to the movie theater to see the new Brad Pitt movie that I wanted to see sooo badly. Of course after standing in line for a bit they yelled out it was sold out. I was so upset, so we leave and decide to come back to go see district nine instead...yup within those five short minutes it was sold out as well. And what does my hormonal ass do, I breakdown and cry...yup...total meltdown haha Luckily I have an amazing man who just hugged me and said tomorrow I'd look back on all this and laugh...and of course he was right. Oh the joys of pregnancy :)

25 Week Belly Picture

That oh-so-handy sense of equilibrium is kicking in, and baby's learning to distinguish right side up from upside down.

How far along? 25 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: not sure...total 20 pounds as of last week
Body Changes? Just growing all over...My thighs touch now when I walk...gross.
Sleep: Still something I can't get enough of. Thinking of getting that big pillow everyone talks about...can't seem to find a comfortable position
Best moment this week: Being in Contract on our apartment...seller finally signed!
Gender: Penis.
Food Cravings: Bottom line- I've been a real fatty this week. Craving chocolate and putting on the pounds. I have a chocolate muffin in front of me right now but guilt is setting in and I'm having a mental argument in my head as to whether or not I should attack it...
What I miss: Seeing my hoo hoo, not having constant back pain, and feeling limber...I can definitely feel the weight in this heat now.
Symptoms: Awful back pain...luckily I have a sweet husband who massages me at night (Thanks Shar for the massage oil ;)
What I am looking forward to: The Hampton's this weekend with our good friends.
Milestones: Selling our apartment. Now I'm just hoping his financials pass and the board approves him!

24 Week Belly Picture

Baby's skin is becoming more opaque as the fat starts to pack on. And, thanks to the formation of small capillaries, her newly thick skin is taking on a fresh pink glow.

How far along? 24 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: zero, (total 20 pounds)
Body Changes? Breaking out a lil on my back again. Boobs still growing and now I feel like weight is going everywhere.
Sleep: I can't get enough sleep these days. Getting out of bed is rough and I sometimes take little naps after work because I'm so tired.
Best moment this week: Spending a weekend with my hubby (finally!), laying out and having a BBQ with friends. Also, feeling Max kick like crazy...we might have a good soccer player in the family!
Gender: BOY.
Food Cravings: Still craving my skim hot chocolates from Starbucks. Also loving me some Red Mango and strawberries.
What I miss: being skinny. I feel like a truck...even my thighs are touching now urgh.
Symptoms: backaches, doctor told me it's because I have such large tatas now and I'm not wearing the correct bra for support.
What I am looking forward to: The Hampton's this weekend with our good friends.
Milestones: V-DAY BABY!!!! I'm soooooo happy! Also seeing Max kick on the outside is amazing...i LOVE feeling him kick and seeing it too.

Week 24

Yayyyyyyyyyy today is V-day for Max and I couldn't be happier! Week 24 is usually considered the point of viability, meaning that if your baby is born now, they have a chance for survival. They would, however, be in intensive care for many months.
We met with our doctor on Wednesday and she said everything was looking great and Max is of average size. The second she walked in she goes "Hey guys...I'm dying to know if he will he be dark or light!" We told her we were literally discussing the same thing the night before and were dying to know ourselves. She said it's a common misconception to think the darker person will be more dominant, she even said there is a good chance he could have blue eyes from his grandfather or his fathers side of the family. Steve told her about my heart cramps I've been having, she gave me some vitamins I need to take and wants us to monitor it closely and let her know next time it happens. She also told me my breasts will make ample milk given how big they have gotten and then proceeded to scold me for my lack of proper bra support (I've gone from a small A to nice D's). She wasn't surprised I have had such bad upper back pain given my paltry gap sports bra and told me I need to buy one asap (which Steve and I have now done...and they are ugly)! She then told Steve he should enjoy these big melons while I have em haha Otherwise everything checked out he seems to be a healthy little bugger.

He has been kicking up a storm, usually in the mornings and evenings when I'm sitting/laying down. I can even see the kicks from the outside now which is crazy! Steve and I had a wonderful weekend at my parents house with friends and my brother. We couldn't have asked for a nicer weekend. We also had our first Argentinian BBQ which was sooo yummy (pictures below)!



Last but not least, Steve and I found our next apartment which we are SUPER excited about. We absolutely love it, and now I can finally say I'll be a borough gal...who would have thought! Now lets just hope the apartment will still be available and our apartment sells...wish us luck!

Crazy Hormones

My wife is five months pregnant and so moody that sometimes she’s borderline irrational.
~So what’s your question?

Sometimes I feel like I'm going crazy. I know it shall pass and it's only temporary, but it's super frustrating. Last night I had my first hormonal breakdown during dinner with the family over nothing. Those who know me well enough know I don't get frazzled too easily and can hold my own during a discussion. Well that doesn't seem to be the case lately. Not only have I shown up to work an hour late thinking I was on time, consistently ordered the wrong drink at Starbucks, and forgotten simple tasks at the office, but now I'm an emotional donkey. To add insult to injury I weighed myself last night and instead of gaining the one pound a week they say I should, I've been gaining two...great! No wonder my back has been killing me. Let's see what the doctor says today when I go in for my checkup...should be interesting.

Up until now I wanted my old body back, now I just want my sanity! I hope my husband survives this emotional roller coaster I'm on...poor guy. Luckily he is super sweet and understanding and felt really bad for upsetting me last night, even though in reality I was upset over nothing. Fun times!

23 Weeks

Today is officially my last weekend in NYC without my husband. After three long years of him working the weekend shift in DC he is finally returning home. I travelled to DC for the evening to see his coworkers who had a gathering for him last night. I travelled there by train, where I managed to pee without falling (not that easy on a fast train and pregnant), however I didn't notice when the door swung open and everyone sitting there and standing in front of it were able to see my accomplishment. I was mortified. After a brief stint in DC where I got to see my husband say goodbye to his viewers during the morning show, I drove a long five hours home with our dogs.
I am so proud of my husband for his great job in DC. As soon as he told the viewers today would be his last day the fan mail started pouring in. They were sooo sweet, here are a few:
Steve,
Saw on the news this morning you will be leaving Channel 4 to move to NY and be with your wife, and soon a new baby. Watch News 4 all the time and will miss your presence as a meteorologist - you are always so upbeat and have a great sense of humor. Wish you and your family the best at whatever this new chapter in your life brings you.
Steve Young
Springfield, VA

Dear Steve:
We are deeply saddened to see you are leaving channel 4
as we were hoping you would be taking over for Bob Ryan or as we call him "Lyin Ryan".
We have enjoyed your work during the last three years.
On the other hand, you had to have had the worst schedule on TV so maybe you will do something with a normal work schedule.
Anyway, thanks again for your work and best of luck in the future...............
Bon Voyage,
Scott Crow

Dear Steve,
I just wanted to tell you that my mom and I love watching your weather forecasts! We'll miss "Good morning Keith and Eun, good morning everyone!"
We're sad you're leaving and we'll miss you!!
Best of luck,
Lori Latimer

Dear Steve,
My boyfriend and I watch you faithfully each weekend and just learned you are leaving! This is very sad news for us as you make our mornings bright with your shinning personality. You're shoes just might be too big for anyone to fill!! We will miss waking up to your segments on Sat. and Sun. mornings. You brought charisma, energy and humor to the set. Good luck back up in NYC and congratulations on your baby on the way.
Best Wishes & Cheers To You!
Gwen & Mike
Alexandria, VA

Heard today is your last day…..going to miss you…..all the best……hope to see you on air in another market….maybe the network
Best of luck!!!!
Linda McIntyre

Hi Steve,
OMG, I was watching you this morning when you said today is your last
day with Channel 4. Steve, it sure has been a pleasure watching you on
the weekends. I am writing to you from the Prince William Co Police Dept
where I decided to work some overtime this weekend.
I remembered when you first spoke about getting married to Noelle and
now to hear about a baby on the way. I wish you the very best when
your new baby arrives in Dec and when you move back to NY. You truly
will be missed here in Washington.
Who is your replacement? Anyone new from the outside?
Best of luck to you and your family.
Bonnie Meunier

Hi Steve,
I am sorry to see you go. You were my favorite weather person. Good Luck in what ever you do . Let us know if you have a boy or girl.
Pat Marley
Greenbelt , md.

My husband & I want to wish you the best of luck. We just read that you are leaving Channel 4 news...that is really too bad. No doubt that you are a big part of why we watch Channel 4 news on the weekend.
You will be missed by us as you consistently entertained us during your weather forecasts. You are naturally hilarious & are perfect for television news. Your comments & observations made us laugh all the time, and you are a great meteorologist as well.
Nothing but the best to you & your family. Good luck & hope to see you on TV again.
Meghan & Robert Dunbar


He told them that he is looking forward to moving back to NYC to be with his wife and future son and that he is ready to move on from weather. Most of all he was looking forward to being a father. He was so cute, and I know why his viewers are so sad to see him go. I'm going to post a link of a few of his newscasts over the years.

http://www.nsbvideos.com/site/preview?pid=44682#settings

So tomorrow I will have a husband who is around 7 days week yay! Also our apartment will hopefully be going to contract this week which would be amazing. Little Max has been kicking whenever he wakes up and I love every second of it.

23 Week Belly Post

"Baby's little face is fully formed...minus the baby fat, of course. The next task at hand for baby: sprouting two teeny-tiny nipples!"

How far along? 23 weeks
Total weight gain/loss: up 4 pounds (total 20 pounds)
Body Changes? I keep getting comments that I'm all belly and how people can't believe i'm in the 6th month. I'm also very spacey lately...i have been ordering the wrong things without noticing and today I walked into the office and hour late thinking I was on time...I think i'm going bat sh#t crazy!
Sleep:I slept an entire night without peeing, what an accomplishment, it felt great! Can't get enough sleep these days, so tired.
Best moment this week: Saw Jersey Boys with the family, loved it. But best moment would be seeing my husband sign off his newscast and saying goodbye to his viewers after three years. He talked about his wife and son and how much he was looking forward to being a father. I will post a link to several of my husbands shows tomorrow.
Gender: BOY.
Food Cravings: Still craving my skim hot chocolates from Starbucks. I've been having difficulty ordering them, I guess I've been ordering cappuccino's instead and they always have to remake them...urghhh pregnancy brain. Also lovin me some Red Mango.
What I miss: This week I haven't missed much, I'm a happy camper.
Symptoms: Still the same as last... backaches, headaches but my rash is gone.
What I am looking forward to: V-Day, i'm only one week away! And my husband moving home today! I finally have my husband by my side again 7 days a week! Life is good.
Milestones:I feel Max kick daily, steve can even feel him on the outside from time to time. I love it. i always talk to him and let my boy know how much mommy loves him.

Will it Sell?

Well, it all comes down to tonight. Will our buyer who put in a bid for our apartment still like it and all our furniture before he signs the contract and puts down a deposit. Tonight we will find out. He is coming over at 6pm to look at it again, and to say I'm nervous is an understatement. I know our apartment is great, I have loved living there for the past four years and have so many fond memories of the place. But now that we are four months away from Max's arrival, the timing of this offer couldn't come at a better time. Keep your fingers crossed that we can close the deal! It's almost too good to be true!

Week 22

Yup...that's a picture of my lovely rash I developed a few days ago. It's getting better but is still sticking around. It's been another crazy busy week with family in town and my girlfriends bridal shower I helped host. It turned out great which I'm happy about, more importantly she had a great time and that's all that matters! I have had such bad junk food cravings this past week. I've been getting skim hot chocolates from starbucks all week and Max seems to like them because he kicks nonstop while I'm sipping on one. Last night I felt him kick on the outside of my belly for the first time. I can't wait for Steve to come home tonight and feel him too. Now I can totally tell when he wakes up because it will be nothing for hours and then all of a sudden I feel kicks. It's amazing and I love every second of it.

I can't believe after three years Steve will finally be coming home. His anchors will be having a small going away party for him on Saturday which I plan on attending. I have to support my hubby, and I'd love to say goodbye to all the wonderful friends he has made. I must admit, I'll miss DC, but I'm even happier my husband will be home fulltime with me now. Soooo many things I have missed that we will be able to do now. Sleeping in on weekends, hanging out, seeing our friends together...all things I have missed. Will I miss my "alone time" a bit, sure, but not as much as I've missed my hubby for all these years!