Mason's Birth Story

Well, first off...let's pick back up where we left off.

I was supposed to be uploading my 39 week update on Wednesday, September 2. I had it all written up and ready to post. And I was excited to share what I was hoping would be my last bump picture of this pregnancy, as I was anticipating scheduling my induction day that afternoon at my 40 week appointment.

 

But my baby boy had other wonderful plans for me. As I woke up at 6:30 in the morning on Wednesday, September 2, to my surprise and delight, my water broke! I immediately decided I liked this little guy already. Nice and prompt. One day before his due date! I called for Greg in the other room, who was already up and going for the day. We squealed with excitement and immediately sprung into our action plan. I hopped in the shower while he tended to the pets and made sure they were set. Once I finished showering and got dressed, I packed up the last few items into our hospital bags and Greg loaded up the car while I made the bed and did a final once over of the house; because I couldn't just leave to have a baby until I was sure the house was clean & tidy ((rolls eyes at self)). By 7:15 we were pulling up to the hospital and headed into labor & delivery. Yup...I just waltzed right in. 

Coincidentally, my doctor was already there finishing up a c-section when we arrived. We no sooner got settled into our room, I slipped into my delivery gownie, and she was already there. She checked me, and again to my surprise, I was already at 3cm! I was actually shocked, considering I was still closed at my last appointment and I had felt absolutely no contractions or pain whatsoever. Even so, she decided it would be best to start me on pitocin (a labor inducing drug), since I wasn't contracting and we were on the clock. (They won't let you go more than 24 hours from the time your water breaks to the time of delivery to prevent infection.) She recommended that I opt for an epidural (because pitocin is known for making contractions much worse than natural labor), and told me she would be calling to check on my progress up until delivery. 

So they got me all hooked up to my IV and pitocin drip (and an internal baby monitor...one thing I was really hoping to avoid) and it was time to get down to business. I knew the contractions would be kicking in soon and the reality started setting in that this was it...the big day! I started feeling increasingly anxious, and decided it was time to make the call to have my mom come sit with us during labor. The plan had been that she would be 'on call' in case I decided I needed my mommy...and I did, because she calms me down. I knew it was so important that I relax and allow my body to do it's thing, and I knew my best chance of doing so was to have her there too.

Ready to take on these contractions & meet my little man 

 Greg ready to become a dad

It took until around 11am for me to start feeling as though I was in active labor. I could feel the contractions getting stronger as they continued to kick up the pitocin little by little. My nurse had already been asking if I wanted the epidural, but it was nothing I couldn't handle yet. I just breathed through the contractions, using the technique we learned in our childbirth prep class. At noon, my nurse checked me and said I was at 5cm. This was the golden number I wanted to hear before allowing myself to get an epidural. So since I reached it, I went ahead and gave her the green light to put in the order. I think I asked for it at just the right time, because by the time the anesthesiologist got there and got it working, I was just starting to really labor through contractions. He and the nurse complimented me saying how impressed they were with how centered I was and how well I was handling the contractions. But, I am so happy I decided to go ahead and get the epi. By 12:45, I was all hooked up and laughing as they asked me if I could feel the contraction I just had. Those things are truly unreal. 

The rest of the afternoon, Greg, my mom and I just relaxed and chatted as we waited for my labor to progress. My nurse checked me again around 3:00 and I was at a 7. She decided to go ahead and just turn off the pitocin as she hadn't increased it in a while, and my body was doing the work all on it's own! Around 4:30/5, I finally started getting uncomfortable and feeling a slight urge to push. They checked me again, and sure enough I was at a 10! They officially considered me 'complete'.

The nurse explained that we would then start a process that they call 'labor down'. Instead of starting to push right away, and wearing myself out...they would have me wait and only push when I felt I wanted to, needed to, or could no longer control my body from doing so. As this part of the day progressed, I got more and more uncomfortable pretty quickly, and it was time for my mom to leave until after delivery and our 'golden hour' with our newborn son. 

 Saying goodbye to my mommy before I became one myself

 Last picture as a twosome! Anxiously awaiting the arrival of our baby boy.
Ready to push and still smiling!

The last hour and a half up until Mason's delivery was the most uncomfortable and definitely the most unglamorous hour and a half I've ever had. I am happy to say that I never did lose my cool and become that lady you could hear screaming down the hall. I just breathed and pushed. (Okay, there may have been a moment where I yelled at Greg to stop telling me to "push! push! push! push!") My labor may have been a breeze, but delivery was no joke! When all was said and done, I ended up with a pretty serious episiotomy and having to agree to a vacuum extraction to help Mason out. But finally, at 7:43pm, Mason Gregory officially made his entrance into this world. 

09.02.15. 7:43pm. He is here!

Because of the vacuum extraction,  Mason had to be fully checked by a neonatologist before I was able to hold him or do any skin-to-skin. The entire day seemed to fly by until those moments, which seemed to take an eternity. I laid there getting stitched back up and could do nothing but stare in amazement and awe at my little man laying there in the warmer. I cried as he cried his first cries. Thankfully, Greg was the best advocate I could ask for and kept pushing for them to get him to me as soon as possible. I could not wait to hold my baby boy in my arms. Once I did, I knew my world would never be the same. Mason's birth was the most wonderful, incredible experience. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

 

The moment I've waited my whole life for 

 

 The new love of our lives. Our perfect baby boy

 

My family. My world. 

I am beyond blessed.

The next hours and days we spent in the hospital were the most precious and best days of my entire life. I am so happy we have these pictures to bring us back. I can't even look at them without tearing up (yep...I am that mom now.)

 

"How wonderful life is, now you're in the world."

Since Mason's birth, we have been soaking up every single moment together as a family of three. Our lives are forever changed for the better, and we are all doing wonderfully.

He Is Here!

If you haven't already assumed from my lack of posts, little baby Kazak has arrived!

Mason Gregory Kazak was born at 7:43pm on Wednesday, September 2, 2015. He weighed 7lbs & 10 oz and was 20 inches long. Born with a full head of beautiful, dark hair! He is absolutely perfect and we are so, so in love!!

I can't believe my baby is three weeks old already! Time is just flying by way too fast. I also can't believe this is the first moment I've gotten to sit down and write this quick post. (EDIT: The first moment I HAD. No sooner did I type that and my little guy woke up early from his nap.) Mom life with a newborn is no joke. It's hard work (especially for a nursing mama). But it is more amazing and rewarding than I can even begin to try to explain. 

I am so excited to continue blogging, to share everything about my greatest adventure yet...mommyhood! My head is already full of ideas for posts, which will be picking back up, as we are starting to find our rhythm and routine as a family of three. Stay tuned for Mason's birth story coming ASAP!

38 Weeks

How far along? Yup, I'm back. And still pregnant. Officially 39 weeks today, which means baby Mason has officially hit the new full term. (Now if only he would take the hint that it's time to come out now!)
Total weight gain/loss: up 24 pounds. I'm actually quite chuffed with myself for remaining right at (or just the tiniest bit under) the goal I had set for myself. I didn't want to gain any more than 25 pounds...and I pretty much ended up right on target. According to the charts, this should be all baby and pregnancy weight (aka I'm hoping most of it comes right off!)
Maternity Clothes? Yep. And I can't wait to be done wearing them at this point. The day I fit back into my regular jeans without a maternity band attached will be a day of celebration!
Stretch marks? Still no real changes. I'm feeling really thankful that I didn't end up with anything bad at all!
Sleep: Not getting much of it nowadays. Pregnancy insomnia has definitely set in. It's like nature's sick way of getting you ready for the sleepless nights ahead. I wake up to pee and then can't fall back asleep. Once I finally do, it's time to repeat the cycle again.
Best moment this week: Starting to receive many texts/messages daily from family & friends wondering how I am feeling and if anything is moving with baby. Seems like everyone else is getting as anxious to meet our little guy as we are! It's nice to know that our loved ones are thinking of us and wishing us well! Also, just enjoying these last few days and weeks with Greg as a twosome. We've really been a great team in making our final preparations for Mason, and it's been nice enjoying some last few little date nights here and there.
Miss Anything? Again, just not being pregnant at this point...and everything that goes along with that. 
Movement: Yep
Food cravings: Pumpkin everything!! (especially pumpkin coffee)
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope
Gender: It's a Boy! 
Labor Signs: This is a big fat NOPE! Wish I could be saying yes, but I don't seem to be making an progress in this department. Still no contractions. My doctor did a cervical exam at my last two appointments and there has been no change at all. Cervix is closed and I am not dilated whatsoever. In fact, baby still needs to drop quite a bit! She said it is time to start walking, squatting, doing exercises on the birthing ball etc to try and help it along. If I make it to my 40 week appointment next Wednesday, (which seems more than likely) we will start making plans for an induction.
Symptoms: Pregnancy insomnia, heartburn, pelvic pressure. It's getting pretty uncomfortable here folks.
Belly Button in or out? In 
Wedding rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy :)
Looking forward to: it being Fall and having Mason here with us. I guess the blessing in disguise is that the longer we wait, the more ready we feel approaching labor & delivery. I am beyond ready to have him here and cuddle and snuggle him all day long.

You will more than likely be hearing from me next Wednesday or Thursday for one final week of pregnancy updates! Until then, you can find me at home bouncing on my new 'birthing ball'. That reminds me...time to go meet with my mom for a long walk...

Third Trimester Survival Guide

Well, I have officially hit week 38 in the last trimester of my pregnancy. (The week I am hoping our little Mason will make his arrival!) I would say both Greg and I are super ready for it at this point! But while we can never be sure about these things, I figured I had better make my Third Trimester Guide post before I am officially no longer a preggo!

I just have to say, for the record, that what you hear is 100% true. The first 8 months of pregnancy fly by SO fast. And then you hit the 9th month...the last four weeks...which seem longer than an entire trimester combined. But as Aretha would say...'I will survive!'

Comfy, slip-on shoes: I saw these Havaiana flip flops (linked) while shopping at Motherhood Maternity one day, and remembered my old college roommate telling me these were the most comfortable flip flops ever. I figured if the maternity store was selling them, it must be true. It was! I've somehow luckily gotten through this pregnancy with very minimal swelling, (if any) but either way...my feet thank me when I'm wearing these shoes. And btw, bending over to put on or adjust shoes...forget it! A comfy pair of slip-ons is an absolute third trimester must! (Havaianas worked great for me during the summer, but for Fall/Winter...I would probably have gone for something of the Tom/Ugg variety.)

Comfortable nursing bra(s): My "girls" have gone through quite the growth spurt this last trimester (and my milk hasn't even come in yet...yikes). Typical for the last trimester. But since I am planning on breastfeeding, I saw no reason to waste money on buying regular bras that I would only be wearing for a couple of weeks. Time to spring for the nursing bras! The one I have linked is my new and most favorite bra EVER! Super comfortable, even with the underwire (which I need!) and the price is so on point! If you're on the hunt...check this one out!

Extra pairs of breathable underwear: This may be TMI, but nevertheless...it's the truth. Vaginal discharge (what they call Leukorrhea) happens during pregnancy and increases as pregnancy progresses. It's like the discharge you might experience at a certain time each month, only more of it...especially in the last trimester. Many pregnant women choose to wear a pantyliner throughout the day to deal with it. Here's my thing with that: it's important that you wear breathable underwear during pregnancy, as your risk for UTIs and yeast infections also increases (more TMI for ya!). And I wouldn't exactly consider wearing pantyliners all day every day a 'breathable solution.' Instead I opt to change my underwear once, sometimes twice, a day to combat it. So picking up some extra pairs was definitely necessary. That is, unless I wanted to be doing laundry all the time; which let's face it...'ain't nobody got time for that!'

Childbirth prep classes: If you are a first time mom like me, once you get close to the last trimester, your doctor will likely recommend that you look into the childbirth preparation and baby classes offered at your hospital. I've found that they pretty much all seem to offer the same classes; a 4-5 week childbirth preparation course, as well as a breastfeeding class, a baby basics class, and an infant safety and CPR class. Greg and I took them all! And I am really happy we did. They are all very affordable, and in my opinion, worth the time and money. Besides learning a lot and making us feel much more prepared for this whole childbirth thing, it also gave us a chance to get acquainted with the labor & delivery ward, and ended up being a nice bonding time for us as a couple.

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth: If you are only going to read one book during your pregnancy, this is the one I would recommend! If you have no interest in trying for a natural/medication free childbirth...you may take one look at this book and think, "No thank you!" But I think this book is great for any woman to read before having a baby. Nothing will make you feel more at peace, empowered and ready to embrace the experience. In fact...I even ended up throwing it into my hospital bag (just in case I need a little extra encouragement through the whole thing!)

Hospital bag: Once you get settled into your third trimester, it's time to start thinking about your hospital bag. And for this...I say the sooner the better. It takes longer than you might think to plan, prep and pack it! I started by researching what some of my favorite bloggers/YouTubers had packed and making a list of what I thought I would need. Once I had my list, I was able to slowly start accumulating what I needed, and setting things aside in my bag. Once I had checked everything off the list, I just washed and packed it all up. I had my hospital bag completely prepared by week 35 (which is what is recommended!) Need help deciding what to pack? Check out my post on What's In My Hospital Bag!

Thank you notes: If you will be having a baby shower, this one should be a no-brainer! But even if not, you should pick some up anyway. In the third trimester (as well as after baby is born) the gifts just start pouring in. A handwritten thank you is just proper etiquette. Proper etiquette also allows you so many weeks to get these notes sent out. My recommendation?...do it ASAP (before pregnancy brain allows it to slip your mind or baby makes an early arrival!). Shower notes seem particularly daunting? I split mine up by writing out 5 a day until they were all done. All other thank yous I have written out the day I received the gift.

Dreft: Speaking of all those gifts you will receive. Guess what! They ALL need to be washed (or sanitized) before their first use on baby. So picking up a bottle of Dreft (or baby safe laundry detergent of your choice) before your shower is a great idea. Maybe this is just because I am a cleaning freak, but I found it so exciting when I washed all of Mason's linens and clothing and his entire room smelled like that fresh baby scent!

A cleaning service: Never have I ever I wished for anything more! I never put much thought into hiring a cleaning service; mostly because like I said, I am a cleaning freak. I actually enjoy cleaning my house. But between preparing the house for Greg's diaper party and these past few weeks of doing one last deep cleaning before Mason arrives...I've realized this would have been a REALLY great thing to consider. Thankfully, with the help of my wonderful husband, I've officially tackled everything that needed to be done. But I honestly could not have done it without his help, and let me tell you...it was SO hard! I am honestly shocked I made it through without going into early labor. So if a cleaning service is something you can afford, even just for one month, I would highly recommend looking into it. I truly believe it would have been worth every penny. (And now I know for next time!) Can't afford or justify hiring this service? Someone was recently telling me about a baby shower she attended where all the aunts had pitched in together to get the mom-to-be a cleaning service for the last month of her pregnancy, as well as the first month that the baby was here. My automatic response: "That was absolutely genius!" Nothing wrong IMO with dropping a hint (to hubby, mom & dad, a close relative) here or there that this would be something you would very greatly appreciate.

Rest: this one has been a hard concept for me to grasp. But in your last trimester...it's time to start taking it easier. Listen to your body. When it tells you to stop and take a break...stop, put those feet up, and take a break! These last few weeks, I was in a bit of a panic, feeling like I was never going to get everything done that I needed done before the baby was here. And now here I sit, everything ready and thinking this baby may never come! What I'm trying to say is, everything will work out in time for baby (and if not, it doesn't even matter...you will make it work!) So make your progress as slowly as you need to and take time to rest in between. Your non-swollen feet will thank you!


VERY honorable mentions go to...
Snoogle Total Body Pillow, Tums, Burt's Bee's Belly Butter, Water, and WTE Support Group: 
Because these items have already made it on either my first or second trimester guides (maybe even both), I didn't want to be too repetitive and talk about them again. But these five items have still been absolute survival/must-have items for me throughout this trimester (and throughout my pregnancy in general!) So I just had to mention them one more time. If you would like more info on why, check out my First Trimester Survival Guide and my Second Trimester Must Haves.

And there it is...My Third Trimester Survival Guide all complete! I can't believe how quickly this entire pregnancy has gone...and how good it has been to me! Now it's just time to relax and wait for our little man to make his arrival. (Then postpartum and baby faves will be on the way! Yay!)

37 Weeks

How far along? 37+6. I can't believe I am 38 weeks tomorrow!
Total weight gain/loss: up 24 pounds this week. (Think I may have overindulged a little on sweets this past week...eep!)
Maternity Clothes? Yep
Stretch marks? No changes this week
Sleep: Eh. Some nights are better than others at this point.
Best moment this week: Finishing up our deep clean and having a sense of being completely ready for Mason to arrive at anytime.
Miss Anything? Not being pregnant. At this point...I am feeling ready for it to be over. 
Movement: Yes, and lots of hiccups too!
Food cravings: Sweets & seafood. Those two things have been pretty consistent throughout.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope
Gender: It's a Boy! 
Labor Signs: Felt some mild cramping on Sunday and woke up yesterday with the worst pelvic pressure EVER! I seriously thought my water might just burst. But both of those things subsided as fast as they happened. I haven't had any real contractions (at least I don't think so). But at least I'm having some signs of impending labor?
Symptoms: Pelvic pressure. And I always forget to mention the nasty bloody gums (some weeks seem to be worse than others.)
Belly Button in or out? In 
Wedding rings on or off? On
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy :)
Looking forward to: Delivery day! It's hard to explain, but I've never been so excited and at the same time so terrified for the same thing in my life! I'm anxious for what's about to happen, but I just can't wait to hold my baby in my arms.

36 Weeks

How far along? 37 weeks today!
Total weight gain/loss: right in between 21-22 pounds up 
Maternity Clothes? Of course!
Stretch marks? No changes this week
Sleep: It's so so. I am definitely sleeping plenty. However, it's very interrupted with all the peeing and the tossing and the turning and trying to get comfortable.
Best moment this week: Getting one last sneak peak at our little one during our 36 week growth ultrasound. AND having another great appointment yesterday! My blood pressure was still good, I found out I tested negative for Group B Strep (no antibiotics during labor for this girl!) and everything looked great on the ultrasound. They estimated that Mason now weighs 6 pounds 5 ounces! I have to say I was a little shocked. I thought they were going to tell me he was on the smaller side, because I just don't think my bump is that big and I don't feel that uncomfortable. There is always a variance with these things, so we won't really know until he arrives. But I am happy to know they think he is at a good, healthy weight.
Miss Anything? Sleeping through the night
Movement: Yup
Food cravings: Back on the seafood kick. All I want is tuna sandwiches for lunch and any seafood for dinner. I made Greg promise that whenever our first date is after we have the baby...we can go to Pappadeaux...where I will gorge myself on lobster bisque and seafood fondue. I just want all the seafood!
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope
Gender: It's a Boy! 
Labor Signs: Not really. I have definitely been feeling some more Braxton Hicks, and a lot more pelvic pressure. I think he finally dropped! But I would be surprised if anything happened this week. My doctor said yesterday that since everything looks good...we will just be letting nature take it's course and Mason will make his arrival when he decides to do so. It's just a waiting game now!
Symptoms: Still feeling good, other than terrible heartburn a couple nights this week. And I am talking heartburn like I have never experienced heartburn. Yikes! Oh, and pelvic pressure for sure.
Belly Button in or out? In 
Wedding rings on or off? On 
Happy or Moody most of the time: Left my appointment yesterday feeling probably the happiest I've ever felt! I just feel so thankful and blessed that I have gotten this far and had such a good, healthy pregnancy...and to know now that whenever he comes, we will have a strong and healthy baby boy!
Looking forward to: being a mom to Mason

35 Weeks

How far along? 36 weeks today 
Total weight gain/loss: +21 pounds  
Maternity Clothes? I just realized I somehow dropped this question off the list in the last few weeks...but nothing has changed anyways. It's pretty much been strictly maternity-wear this last trimester. 
Stretch marks? There are some, but nothing too bad! 
Sleep: It's getting rougher. I'm pretty much tossing and turning (and getting up to pee) all night long. And more ridiculous...I had to add another little pillow underneath my belly for more support.   
Best moment this week: Setting up the last of the baby gear with Greg over the weekend. Okay, well he did most of it...but I was there for moral support! He installed the car seat, finished setting up the sensor pad for our baby monitor system and put together the gliding bassinet/swing/bouncer seat system. We installed the animal gates and I set up the co-sleeper (all by myself). We also went to Babies R Us and picked up the last few things we needed off the registry before baby comes, and I finished organizing his closet. Our home officially looks like a baby lives here! The last thing I/we need to do is a good deep cleaning of every room before he arrives (which starts today!) 
Miss Anything? Now that I am getting close to my due date, I have been thinking more and more about things I am looking forward to being able to do again once I am no longer pregnant. On the list so far: eat as much seafood per week as I want, take a hot LUSH bath, drink a glass of wine, cuddle with hubby in bed instead of the ginormous pillow that is currently separating us, Pumpkin Spice Lattes...(okay, the last one I could totally have whether I was pregnant or not, but is it Fall yet?) 
Movement: Yup! 
Food cravings: I've been on a strawberry kick lately. And the other day, all I could think of was wanting some Tyson chicken nuggets and some Kraft macaroni and cheese. So I went online and found a low sodium recipe for homemade mac n cheese and went to the store in search of some low sodium chicken nuggets. That dinner (and lunch the next day) was delicious! 
Anything making you queasy or sick: Results of my recent blood work also showed that my iron was a little low. So I had to start taking an iron supplement on top of my prenatal vitamin and 3 vitamin d3 tabs I take everyday. (I have never taken so many pills in my life...and they are all just vitamins and supplements!) Learned very quickly that taking an iron pill on an empty stomach is a terrible, terrible idea. 
Gender: It's a Boy! 
Labor Signs: Nope. And doctor confirmed my suspicion yesterday that Mason is still quite high in there. He hasn't dropped or engaged yet, which often happens between 34-36 weeks. I'm kind of hoping he isn't getting too comfortable in there! (We all know that I'm hoping to go around 38 weeks.) 
Symptoms: Felt pretty good this week. The belly is in the way and makes things more uncomfortable, but can't really complain. I expected much worse at this point. 
Belly Button in or out? In 
Wedding rings on or off? On 
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!  
Looking forward to: holding my sweet baby boy in my arms.

What's In My Hospital Bag?!

Now that I am officially 35 weeks pregnant, it is also officially time to have my hospital bag all packed up & ready to go! Being the planner I am, I started working on this at the very beginning of the 3rd trimester. I finally have everything washed, organized & packed, and we are all ready to go (just in case Mason decides to make his entrance a little sooner than we are expecting!) 

I compiled my own hospital bag checklist by doing just this, reading through all my favorite bloggers' hospital bag posts and deciding what I thought I needed. Being the notorious over-planner & over-packer that I am, this may just be the hospital bag post to end all hospital bag posts. Because (I will be the first to admit) I packed A LOT. 3 bags worth to be exact! And this is a super detailed sneak peak into what's in my hospital bag...err...bags!) 

Yea, yea...you heard me right. I packed 3 bags. But for me, this just seems like the most systematic and organized way. The first bag is what I'm calling, the Labor Bag. For this, I am using my thirty-one essential storage tote. It's not very big, and still pretty light after being filled up. Technically, this is the only bag that we really need to bring into the hospital AT FIRST, because this is all the stuff we will need while I am actually in labor & delivery. (All the rest can wait until afterwards!) Here is what this bag contains:

Baby Be Mine Delivery Gownie - So I can labor & deliver in style! This is quite obviously not a necessity (you can just use the gown provided by the hospital.) But, I know this will make me feel that much better about myself during the process. Here is the one I got!
A pair of comfy socks & flip flops - I am planning on wearing my super cozy white ankle socks during labor/delivery, because that's what sounds comfy to me. But I stuck the flip flops in there in case I'm feeling too hot, or that's just what I'm wanting at the time. (The flip flops will also double as shower shoes for after delivery.)
A hair tie, hair clip, and bobby pins - In uncomfortable situations, I tend to want my hair out of my face. Not sure why, but that's the first thing that will drive me nuts. So I packed a small cosmetic bag with stuff to keep my hair back, plus the next few items...
Chapstick - This one was recommended by our Lamaze instructor. Breathing exercises & hospital air for hours...it's a must have!
Lemonheads & Mints - Another recommendation from our Lamaze instructor. She told us to bring things to suck on, to keep our mouth moist. She specifically mentioned Lemonheads & mints...so of course, I just packed both!
Colgate wisps & gum - in case either of us (hubby or I) feel like we need to freshen our breath. Just figured it might be needed after hours of laboring.
Contact cases, solution & glasses  - this one is for hubby only, since I don't wear glasses. I just threw a contact case and a travel solution into the little bag in case he feels like switching to his glasses.
A comfy outfit for hubby - I packed Greg his favorite sweatpants and a comfy v-neck so he can change and be comfy and ready for the long haul!
A pair of socks & underwear for hubby - again, just for his comfort/convenience during the labor & delivery process.
3-7 dry snacks - I packed a few granola bars, pringles snack packs, etc. mainly for hubby. The hospital will not let me eat during labor, but that doesn't mean Greg has to go starving! I wanted to make sure I had a few things in there for him to snack on and keep his energy up. Plus, I may be grabbing for one of those Cliff bars after I deliver and am feeling ravenous!
DVDs and/or Calming Music - Our hospital has DVD players in every L&D room, and they told us we could bring DVDs if we wanted to help pass the time. I packed Gilmore Girls Season 6 (of course!) and the movie Life As We Know It. I also packed headphones to use with my phone if I need to zone out to some music. 
Camera & Phone with chargers - no explanation needed here. I would probably panic if I didn't have my iPhone.
Baby book for footprints - our hospital reminded us to bring the baby book as they will put the baby's footprints in there right after birth. They also tell the daddy-to-be to bring a shirt of his choice that they will footprint. This would have absolutely been the one thing I would NOT have thought of on my own...so I'm glad we know & will get them!

IMPORTANT: If you are not planning on bringing your whole purse to the hospital, don't forgot to throw your wallet into this bag on the way out, so that you have your ID and insurance card!

Next up is the Postpartum Bag. This is the big guy. It's essentially just my bag. I am using this Polka Dot Print Weekender Bag from Target. It holds everything that I will need for my mini hospital 'getaway' of 2-3 days + all my postpartum needs. Because we (luckily) live within 5 minutes of our hospital...after labor & delivery is over, Greg will be going back and forth to our house to take care of himself, the pets, etc. So I really didn't need to pack anything more for him. What I did instead was iron and hang an outfit for him for each day, so he has clothes ready that match with baby and me! However, there is still room in the bag if I had needed to pack these things (like you would if your home is not close to your hospital and your hubby does not plan on leaving until you do). Here's what's in this one:

3 comfy/pajama type outfits- I'm pretty sure, at least in the US, the protocol at most hospitals is a 2 night stay for a vaginal delivery and 3 nights for a cesarean. So I packed 3 options, just in case. This Baby Be Mine Nursing Gown (with a matching receiving gownie for baby) is what I plan to wear the day after delivery. I wanted something cute for when the majority of our visitors will be coming to see baby Mason. I also packed this Victoria Secret sleepshirt (easy access for breastfeeding), as well as one pair of comfy PJ pants with one of my favorite Motherhood v-neck shirts. On the off chance I have to have a c-section and don't want anything touching the scar, I purposely stuck mostly to nightgowns and really loose fitting clothing. (All these options aren't completely necessary. You can totally hang out in the hospital gowns for your entire stay...but I know I will feel better in my own clothing.)
2 nursing bras (different types) - I packed one underwire one with some good support for during the day, and a comfy one for night.
The Belly Bandit- Another non-necessity, but this is something I have definitely been wanting to try and plan to start using the day after delivery. They are meant to help shrink your waist and hips (and uterus) back down after pregnancy and basically just hold everything in. (I hear these are really great for c-section mamas as well!) I bought the Original, which you can find right here.
Hanes Hi-Cuts cotton underwear - There is a first time for everything ladies! So cheers to my first pack of legit granny panties! I just bought the highest-waisted pack of Hanes cotton underwear I could find (in one size larger than I would normally need.) These will work great with my...
Always Overnight Maxi Pads with Wings (extra heavy flow) - PP bleeding happens, and while the flow and duration is different for every woman...it sounds like a pack of these will work well for those first few days. (The hospitals also provide you with something...a mesh underwear sort of thing? But I only plan on using their stuff if I run out of my own)
4 pairs of comfy socks - just several extra pairs of my favorite white ankle socks
Slippers - I'm just bringing these for a little extra comfort while walking around our room with my swollen postpartum feetsies.
A pillow - Because have you seen the ones they supply you with in the room? And I figured Greg might want to use it for sleeping/napping in his chair there. Plus I had to use the cute matching pillowcase that came with my delivery gownie! 
Prenatal vitamins - gotta keep taking them, even after baby comes!
All essential toiletries - I packed my Vera Bradley hanging travel organizer full of all the essentials (in travel size). A loofa, dry shampoo, regular shampoo, body wash, travel razor, body lotion & deodorant in one compartment. Face cleansing clothes, a mini dove beauty bar, face lotion, 2 toothbrushes (one for both of us), toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, hairspray and q-tips in another. The top compartment has my comb and a few pieces of jewelry I plan to wear after delivery.
Makeup bag - My regular little makeup bag with just my essentials, nothing fancy. Yes, I do intend to do my makeup while I'm there...I'm one of those women. But it seriously only takes me a few minutes.
A hair brush - self explanatory
Blow dryer, straightener/curling iron - I'm also one of those women who plans on doing my hair while I am there. My hair is thin and takes less than 10 minutes...so it's not a big ordeal for me. At the very least, I will let my hair air dry and eventually get around to taking 2 minutes to straighten it.
Mommy's going home outfit - Since I'm pretty positive it's going to be pretty stinkin' hot when we head home...I decided to pack the dress that I wore for my baby shower from Motherhood Maternity. It will be lightweight and easy peasy, but look nice at the same time. (I don't want to go home looking like an absolute slob kabob!)

Side note: lots of hospital bag posts recommend bringing a robe for yourself. I decided to forgo this since I am not a robe wearer and the clothes I have packed will cover enough so that I won't feel the need to cover up anymore. But this is where I would have packed one if I was going to.

Finally, we have the Baby Bag! This bag is for anything we will need for Mason + any breastfeeding needs (since that is what I am planning on doing.) For this one, I used my diaper bag! The Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy in Earl Grey, which you can find here. Here is what's inside:

1 outfit for during the hospital stay - I packed the matching receiving gownie set that came with my nursing gown. I saw this and just thought it would look so cute for us to greet visitors in. (Once again, the hospital will provide you with side snap shirts, swaddling blankets, and things to put baby in while you are there for your stay. I will be using what they provide for the most part. This is strictly for visiting only...hopefully we can avoid any poo catastrophes during that time!)
2-3 different swaddling blankets - Along with using the hospital blanket, I packed a couple different swaddling blankets that match with his different outfits and in case he may have a preference for one over the other. I included one muslin swaddle & one flannel receiving blanket.
2 going home outfit options - I am bringing one option (our preference) in a newborn size and an extra option in size 0-3 months (because most newborn sized clothing only goes up to 8 pounds.) Although we know they have estimated that Mason will be right around 7.2-7.5 pounds if I went full-term...it's still pretty hard for them to really get an accurate number on this. So just in case he ends up being a little bigger, we have an option that will definitely fit him. (I also threw in one white side snap shirt for underneath the outfit so he is going home in his own)
Going home blanket - I put a light thermal blanket in his bag that will match with either going home outfit. When you head home with baby, they like to see that he is fully dressed with a hat covering his head, mittens & socks (if the outfit doesn't have them attached), and a blanket to go on top. Because I know it will still be pretty hot out, I don't want to overheat him. So I packed all light things, with the muslin swaddle as a back up in case it's really scorching!
Baby hats - I packed 3. One to match with each outfit! This way, I know I have one that he can go home in, and two others I can use during the hospital stay if I so choose.
2 pairs of mittens - to avoid scratches to his precious face if he isn't wearing something with built-in mittens
2 pairs of baby socks- to keep those adorable little feet warm if he isn't wearing something with built-in footies
Hand sanitizer - I know the hospital has the hand sanitizer right outside every door, but I brought my BabyGanics one. (For our convenience and just to give an extra little hint to visitors that they should be sanitizing their hands before they hold our newborn!)
Nursing pillow - This is a must since I'm planning on breastfeeding! These first few days in the hospital are going to be critical in establishing this relationship and routine with him. 
Any other nursing needs - This includes my nursing cover, disposable nursing pads, gel soothie pads, lanolin cream, and my breastfeeding bands (These are just those elastic hair bands. You wear one on the wrist you last fed on, to help your sleep-deprived self remember which boob to use the next time!)
A couple different pacifiers - As long as we aren't having issues with breastfeeding, I plan to introduce a pacifier while we are there. Pacifiers help reduce the risk of SIDS by 90%! Most babies will have a preference and even reject certain pacifiers, so I brought 2 different options.
Any props for professional pics - (a special blanket, hat, etc.) We have a photo shoot lined up for after we return home with our choice of professional photographer. However, our hospital offers a 15 minute complimentary photo session on the baby's first full day of life. Since it is complimentary, with no obligation to purchase...we are going to go ahead and do it, just in case we get a really great shot! I packed two other blankets (a personalized one I received as a gift, and one that I just love) specifically for this photo shoot.

Last but not least, although this does not go in any bag, it is super, duper important. Baby's car seat! Make sure you have it installed in your car (and checked by a certified installer) well before you make your way to the hospital for labor & delivery. They will have daddy bring the car seat up when it's time for discharge, and that is the only way you're getting out of there with your baby!

Well...if that isn't the longest blog post in history! This literally took me DAYS to write. But I wanted to be super thorough...and I hope it helps. If you have made it this far in the post...here is my gift to you! My hospital bag checklist all in one easy to print & use document. (I checked the second column as I accumulated and set aside everything I needed and then the third column once it was actually washed and packed in it's rightful bag.)

The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist

2 final quick notes:
All the products shown in the pictures are exacts of what I have or have purchased. 

There are obviously a few items that will have to be packed at the very last minute (ID and insurance card (aka my wallet), my makeup & hair tools, prenatal vitamins, and Greg's glasses). A little tip for remembering these things: Stick a big old post-it on the big bag with that list so you will see it, grab that stuff and throw it in before heading out the door!

34 Weeks

Well!...it's been a bit of an interesting week since I've updated last. As I had mentioned in my 33 week post, I had an appointment the next day (Wednesday, July 22). For those who have never been to a prenatal appointment...here's a quick rundown of how it works: check in, provide a urine sample, get weighed, have blood pressure checked, wait for doctor, see doctor who checks fetal heart rate with monitor, answers any questions & tells you when to come back next. And that's it! It's a pretty quick & easy process...unless a red flag shows up along the way.

Well, at this appointment...the red flag was waved. I had also mentioned last post how my scale at home had been broken, so I wasn't sure about my weight gain. I was a little shocked when I stepped on the scale there to see that it had jumped up from about 23 pounds to between 26-27 pounds up. Red flag #1. Shock and red flag #2 came when the nurse checked my blood pressure and it had jumped up to 130/98. (I have been running right around the 120/80 mark at all my other appointments...so this was not a normal blood pressure.) If you know anything about pregnancy complications, you will know that they were immediately concerned that I was developing pre-eclampsia (just wiki this if you've never heard of it). Basically, not good.

I was only supposed to see the nurse that day since my doctor was out on a delivery. But because of the blood pressure and the weight gain, (which can be a symptom of pre-e) they wanted me to wait there until the doctor arrived to see what we would do and if my blood pressure would go down. About an hour and a half later, the doctor arrived and of course, my blood pressure was still not down (I mean...duh...now I'm in panic mode). So she promptly sent me over to labor & delivery at the hospital to go on the blood pressure monitor, fetal and contraction monitors, and have labs done.

Thankfully, by the time I arrived at the hospital and settled in...my blood pressure was consistently back down to normal and my urine and blood labs came back fine! And baby was just chilling, happy as can be in there.They sent me home to do a 24 hr urinalysis lab and follow up blood work that would give them some more information. I was to see the doctor again in one week.

I rested and watched my sodium all week long, and am happy to report that when I returned back for my appointment yesterday, I had lost those extra 3 pounds and my blood pressure was normal. My labs showed a small amount of protein in my urine...which isn't great...but is also not something she is concerned about at this time. We will be doing repeat labs in the next couple weeks to make sure these levels are not elevated any more. So while I am not completely in the clear...I'm still doing well for now. Thank God! I am just to be resting more, watching my sodium, and being weary of any symptoms I shouldn't be experiencing. Prayers that this continues in the right direction and my blood pressure stays within normal levels!

I just wanted to have some answers before I came back to update on week 34 of my pregnancy. So I'm happy to be back with some positive news and still cooking this little babe! I believe it was just a combination of lots of things that happened the week prior...eating a poor diet, stress, and WAY overdoing it for the week with very little rest. As hard as it is for me, I guess it's time for me to start letting go a bit and relaxing a lot more!

How far along? 35 weeks today!
Total weight gain/loss: As of this morning I am back down to right in between 20-21 pounds up from my pre-pregnancy weight. (Low-sodium diets are no joke...they work. Buh-bye excess fluid!)

Stretch marks? I'm definitely seeing some right on each side of my belly button. They are not big and are not obvious though unless I'm in direct sunlight. Nothing I'm too concerned about...I think they will fade right away.

Sleep: still sleeping well...although the crazy, weird pregnancy dreams seem to have made a comeback this past week!

Best moment this week: Seeing normal blood pressure readings! Sometimes things that seem unideal in the moment end up being a blessing in disguise. Spending some time in labor & delivery brought me to find that I feel very comfortable and at ease there...which is a great thing to know going into my final weeks of pregnancy!

Miss Anything? Salty, crappy foods...I'm not going to lie.

Movement: lots of it. And right on cue, the kicking feeling has changed to very big, obvious body movements. I can literally feel his entire foot dragging across my stomach now. I have also felt him having hiccups for the first time (and 3 subsequent times) this week! 

Food cravings: Remember how I had mentioned last week that my food cravings were starting to go to the salty side? Yea...I think that was a big part of the problem last week. Note to self: don't go eat a ton of shitty Mexican food the day before a doctor's appointment. It made me retain fluid for sure! I would love to go get a fatty, salty meal from McDonald's for lunch...but that's going to be a no go (at least until baby Mason is born.) I am in the process of readjusting my taste buds and finding some new, healthier cravings!

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope 

Gender: Boy...and I am growing increasingly jazzed about this! OMG the clothes. I am having way too much fun shopping for my little man. (I think I may be devoting some time on this blog to 'little man style' once he is here!)

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: This is the first week where I would say I officially hit the uncomfortable stage. I just feel pretty darn pregnant. The belly is in the way, I'm slowing down, and getting a little short of breath every once in a while. And I officially just can't stand the heat. So, I'm pretty much just resting in the air conditioning in between small spurts of productivity nowadays. 

Belly Button in or out? In

Wedding rings on or off? On! And my fingers are less puffy this week (thanks to eating low sodium) so it's perfectly fine.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Had a couple of down moments this week, worrying about the health of my pregnancy and baby. (And possibly a little breakdown over having to watch what I'm eating. Hey! This is hard for a very pregnant lady to accept!) But I realized I needed to turn my attitude around and be thankful for how good this pregnancy has been to me and how blessed I am that my baby boy seems to be doing perfectly in there.

Looking forward to: seeing more babies being born on my Facebook support group! 3 were born this week and it is so much fun waiting in anticipation to see their little faces on the screen. I'm excited for when it's my turn!

Speaking of when it's my turn...my hospital bag is officially packed and ready to go! Check back tomorrow for my What's In My Hospital Bag post! 

Dudes & Diapers & Drinks...Oh My!

This past Saturday, July 18, we had Greg's 'Drinks & Diapers' party at our house. After attending one of these parties himself, Greg always said he wanted to have one when we were expecting our first child. So, I decided to throw one for him. We invited all the important guys in his life (my dad, our uncles and cousins, and all of his closest friends.) Basically, a diaper party is like the man version of a baby shower. The host provides the food & drinks, and the guests shower the daddy-to-be with diapers. Here's a little look at Greg's fun little last hurrah before becoming a dad.

   Once again, I turned to Etsy to find the perfect invitation for the party. I wanted to somewhat stem off the theme from my shower and stick with the rustic, burlap mason jar look. I was really excited when I found these and they had the diaper raffle insert to match! (Plus we all know I love a chalkboard!) Because these also had the mustaches, I thought they were great for a guy's party and added another little accent for decorations!

I'm not sure how many guys care about or notice party decor, but I had to have a little fun. I LOVE party planning! So I set up two small folding tables. The first one had two beer & diaper cakes I made, complete with buckets of peanuts in the shell on top. (Because what guy doesn't love peanuts in the shell?) In the middle of the table, I put a basket full of diapers as a little 'activity' for the guys to do called 'Late Night Diapers'. The sign on the side said, 'Please write a funny, encouraging message to the daddy-to-be.' So the guys used the markers to write funny notes to Greg on the front of the diapers. (This basket will be reserved for Greg's use only so he can at least have a little laugh during those nighttime diaper changes!) 

 

                     

Since our area had a heat index of 111 degrees on Saturday, (WHAT?!) we had to move the party inside for the most part. So I utilized our dining room area for the diaper cakes tables and 'sweets' area. Here's a shot of the Blue Moon Cupcakes I made. These ended up being a big hit! And all I did was make a boxed cake and replaced the water with beer. Stir a little orange zest & juice into some store bought vanilla frosting and you've got yourself a cupcake that tastes just like your favorite bottle of beer...with garnish! I also made 'Pub Cookies' with Sam Adams Boston Lager and some good, old fashioned Rice Krispie Treats (I've found these are always a favorite with guys. They ate the whole tray!)

 

Speaking of food, I spent a long time debating on the menu for this party. I wanted it to be 'man food', stuff I knew guys would like and would eat plenty of (to soak up all the booze that would inevitably be consumed). It also needed to be food that I could basically set out and leave out, since I obviously wouldn't be staying at this party (it was guy's only!) So what Greg and I decided on was that he would grill burgers & brats and the rest would be 'set it and forget it'. Appetizers were chili cheese dip with tortilla chips, bacon wrapped smokies, and a meat, cheese & crackers tray. 

The main meal was burgers & brats, with ALL the fixings; ketchup, mustard, mayo, relish, tomatoes, onions & pickles very purposefully displayed in none other than mason jars. 

Side dishes included crockpot corn on the cob, crockpot baked beans, potato chips, and a delicious pasta salad that my mom made (she also sent a tray of watermelon). And of course, desserts were the Blue Moon cupcakes, pub cookies, and rice krispies. I found all the recipes I used off of Pinterest, and they were thankfully all a success! Almost all of the food went by the time I returned back home at the end of the night.

The main 'party area' was our breezeway (since that's where the bar is!) In there, I set up a gift table. Once again, I was shocked as guests started arriving and were so generous with the amount of diapers they brought. (It started filling up before I could even get a good picture of the table all set up!)  On the right side was my gift to Greg, his 'daddy diaper bag', filled with diapers, wipes, a toy for Mason, a book called 'Kisses for Daddy', and 'The Baby Owner's Manuel.' In the middle was the mason jar we used for the diaper raffle. The sign here said, 'If you brought a pack of diapers (any size) place your ticket in here for your chance to win a prize!'

 

                   

 There was a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prize. 3rd place received a half pint of Fireball Whiskey with a $3 lottery ticket. 2nd received a pint of Fireball Whiskey and a $5 lottery ticket. And finally, the grand prize winner took home a basket full of "Greg's favorite things" including a six pack of Sam Adam Summer Ale (with lemons), a fifth of Captain Morgan, a pint of Rumpleminz, and a handful of lottery tickets.  

 

My final touch was at the bar where I set out mason jars with mustache party straws for drinks! 

I snuck in just a couple of pictures before I headed out with my mom for dinner & a Redbox movie at my parent's house. By the time I got back home that night, it seemed like everyone really had a great time! I'm glad Greg got a night to enjoy some time with his favorite guys before our lives change forever (and of course for the better!)

 (Last but not least, the aftermath of Greg's Drinks & Diapers Party. WOW that's a lot of diapers!!)

32 Weeks

How far along? 32 weeks, 5 days
Total weight gain/loss: around 22-23 pounds up 

Stretch marks? Still no changes in stretch marks 

Sleep: is great! (Minus the fact that I swear I must be getting up about 10 times throughout the night to pee. Urgh)

Best moment this week: Finishing up decorating Mason's room and getting everything put away, so the room is clean & tidy again. I'm also having fun getting the decor together for Greg's diaper party that is coming up this Saturday. I made beer & diaper cakes! (Can't believe how easy those were to whip up!)

Miss Anything? Nah

Movement: All the time. 

Food cravings: Not really. Nothing even sounds good to me this week...except a McDonald's Filet O Fish. Heh.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope

Gender: It's a Boy!

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: Heartburn and a general uncomfortableness that is starting to finally hit me. I feel like my walk has officially turned into a pregnant waddle, and I can't seem to get comfortable when sitting or laying down. And getting back up...well that's just a joke...I look absolutely ridiculous!   

Belly Button in or out? In

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!

Looking forward to: I'm excited for Greg to be having his diaper party this weekend. And honestly...excited for myself that it will be done & over with after this weekend (since I am the one planning it, preparing the house, decorating & cooking for it.) After that, I can just focus on the last few things I need to accomplish before Mason arrives!

31 Weeks

How far along? 31 weeks, 6 days
Total weight gain/loss: I honestly haven't even checked this week, but I would say maybe just one more pound up. So around 21 pounds total right now. The weight gain has slowed down quite a bit as I am starting to run out of womb...I mean...room. (hehe) But seriously, I just can't eat much at one time anymore, or I feel extremely uncomfortable. So I am just sticking to little meals here and there. 

Maternity clothes? Definitely! But all the maternity clothes I purchased in the beginning are all still fitting just fine, so I'm happy about that! 

Stretch marks? Still no changes in stretch marks 

Sleep: Definitely no lack of sleep here 

Best moment this week: Just working away on Mason's room and setting more stuff up for him. Greg even assembled the travel system the other day (and I strolled around the house with it for quite a while to check it out!) More and more baby stuff just keeps popping up around the house and it's making it more and more real that he is soon to arrive! 

Miss Anything? Not really, but I am starting to wonder if I am going to miss being pregnant after I have the baby 

Movement: All the time now.

Food cravings: Pringles. And they give me such bad heartburn! But I keep eating them anyways...

Anything making you queasy or sick: Just if I eat too much. 

Gender: It's a Boy!

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: The heartburn. It has been no joke lately. Definitely won't be missing that once I am no longer pregnant.

Belly Button in or out? In

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!

Looking forward to: Having Mason's room and closet completely organized and finished. It still looks like a bomb went off in there since the shower happened and I can't decide where I want to put anything!

In other news, I am starting to feel a little panicked that there is so much to do in so little time! I will be 32 weeks tomorrow, and I am hoping to have everything completely done and ready by 37 weeks. This gives me 5 weeks to get the rest of what we need before he arrives and get it all organized somewhere, plan and prepare for Greg's diaper party, do all the other cleaning and organizing around the rest of the house I want to have done, and prepare and pack our bags for the hospital! And unfortunately I just can't move as fast as I am used to anymore. I know these weeks before his arrival are going to fly by in no time. But I also just can't wait to meet our baby boy!