Week 20: Halfway There...

How Far Along? 20 weeks! We're halfway there!!!!! Woooooo!

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 4 lbs.

   

Baby Related Purchases: Mom and Larry gave us all sorts of goodies when we went to Atlanta this weekend! All of the outfits are so precious and I can't wait to see Claudia in them!

Peter Rabbit Tea Set, 3 adorable onesies, a rose blanket, and a Gund Lamb plush rattle :-) 

We met Carol for dinner on the way back from Atlanta on Memorial Day and she gave us some cute stuff she bought for Claudia on her last visit to the Smokies! Claudia is a little Tennessee girl already!

Stretch marks? Nope!

Sleep: About the same. I think my body is getting adjusted to less sleep. I'm not as tired as I've been!
  

Movement: I LOVE feeling Claudia move! I can tell she's getting bigger :-) When she does flips, they're startling! Its like feeling a thud in your abdomen. Other times the movements are more like flutters- almost as if she's stretching her arms and legs. She's most active when I'm still.

What I miss: Yesterday we ate dinner at Moe's and I didn't want tea or water. I really really wanted a diet soda! However, sodas are terrible for you in general and I don't want Claudia to have any aspartame in her system! I've decided that when she's no longer in the womb I am going to Moe's and getting a huge Vanilla Diet Barq's Root Beer! :-)

  

Cravings: I didn't really have cravings this week. My appetite has started to increase, though! I've got to be careful about that!  

Anything making you queasy or sick: This pertains to normal life too, but the close parking spots to my building at Union are located near the dumpsters. Especially since the temperatures have risen, it has been RANK! I've literally held my nose while walking by because it makes me want to gag!

Gender: Girl!

Labor Signs: No!

Symptoms: Quickening, Round Ligament Pain, Tiredness, Hip pain

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: I've been happy most of the time! :-)

Worries: I feel like I've measured the worries of this pregnancy in stages. First, my goal was to get to the second trimester because the risk of miscarriage and other complications decreases a lot. Once I passed that marker, I wanted to get to 20 weeks because that is the halfway point. Now that I'm here, I want to get to 30 weeks so that if Claudia is born too early she can survive on her own. I have a feeling that once she's here I'll find new things to worry about- for the rest of her life! The Lord has been reminding me that each day I feel this precious life inside of me is a gift that I could never deserve. I love her so much already!

Best moments this week: This week was super special because we made a trip to Atlanta for Cassidy's Bachelorette weekend! Austin didn't attend, just to clarify. Instead, he hung out with Mom and Larry- it worked out so nicely!

It was soooo wonderful to see my best friends and Cassidy's sisters. It was just the six of us at Becca's parent's gorgeous home! The festivities began on Friday night, but because of work we drove down to Atlanta that night, arriving around 1 a.m. After a good night's sleep, Mom made us a big breakfast and I headed to the party!

Right after I got there, Cassidy, Becca, Pamela and me hopped in the red mustang convertible that had been rented for the weekend (top down, of course!) to run an errand and see Becca's apartment! It was so fun cruisin' with the ladies and Becca's apartment was lovely!

That afternoon, we threw Cassidy a lingerie shower! I won't go into detail about that :-) It was really fun, though!

After the shower, we relaxed on the big wraparound couch, watched "Ella Enchanted" and most of us napped! It was fabulous!

At 7 p.m., we went to dinner at California Pizza Kitchen in the Forum! So so good! We got to sit out on the porch- the evening was perfect! We enjoyed the delicious food and fun fellowship, talking over all the details of the wedding and wedding festivities. Cassidy, of course, was adorned in a "Bride-to-Be" sash and crown with a veil. People's comments were funny!

We didn't eat too much, as we made plans to go to Cafe Intermezzo near Perimeter Mall for dessert! WOW!!! It really feels like an elegant Venetian cafe! The dessert selection was amazing and the options for coffee and drinks were great! Everything was delicious! I'm such a plain jane- I got the New York Cheesecake and decaf coffee (although I think I accidentally received regular coffee- oops!). We all tasted each other's desserts- yum! I highly recommend it! I can't wait to go back!

We stayed up late talking (of course) and decorated some plates for Cassidy's kitchen with different colored sharpies! It was so fun to see how they all turned out. Sadly, I didn't think to snap a picture on my phone!

The next morning, we slept in a little bit, ate Rice Krispies Treats for breakfast (at least I did- there were healthy options too!), packed up our stuff and ate lunch at Frontera before heading our separate ways! The good-byes were much easier knowing we'd all see each other again in a few days :-) I am truly blessed to have such amazing friends! They are more like sisters, really. We've seen each other through so many ups and downs and celebrations over the past 9 years! This coming Saturday, we get to stand beside Cassidy as she marries the godly man the Lord has prepared for her! Bring on the waterworks! (I'm going to try my best not to cry at the ceremony and mess up the pictures, Cassidy!) I'm already praying that Claudia will have such wonderful friends!

Instead of heading back to Jackson, I went to Mom and Larry's house for some more fun! Austin and I lathered up with sunscreen (I donned my super-attractive maternity swimsuit) and got in a good hour in the pool before a thunderstorm came! Austin blew up a floating lounge chair-thing for me to use! It was fabulous! That is the epitome of relaxation for me! 

That night, Larry grilled phenomenal steaks and Mom prepared baked potatoes, corn on the cob and green beans. Along with my stepbrother, Larry, we enjoyed our dinner immensely and talked around the table for a couple of hours! Following dinner, we watched "Father of the Bride 2" with Mom and Larry! 

Monday morning, my sweet husband got CFA chicken biscuits for everyone and we hung out with Mom while Larry was at the gym. We had to leave to come home in the early afternoon, so we decided to get back in the pool. I don't look ghostly white anymore! Yes! Larry grilled hamburgers and we enjoyed lunch together on the patio. Another afternoon thunderstorm drove us inside, but we needed to get ready and hit the road anyway! 

While the sunscreen was still absorbing before we got in the pool, I saw where Donna Maye is buried. Mom planted a sweet pink rose bush beside her and put a pretty bird bath there. Larry's dog, Jake, and Mom and Mary's cat, Rajah are buried there too. So, Donna Maye has friends! It was so sad to go to Atlanta for the first time without her there. I missed her a lot! 

Austin and I left around 2 and were being chased by a thunderstorm out of town! Nothing caught up with us until Monteagle (on top of Signal Mountain!!!) when there was a torrential downpour, complete with hail! Thankfully, my pregnant bladder needed to stop at the rest area in Monteagle so we didn't have to drive down the mountain in such bad weather! 

We had a lovely dinner with Carol and Austin's grandparents at Mazatlan on our last leg of the trip! Carol gave Claudia two cute Smoky Mountain T-shirts and little ballet socks/shoes. It was so fun to visit and catch up! We didn't want to leave. 

We made it home at 10 p.m. after a long day of travel! Can't wait to go to Birmingham this weekend for Cassidy's wedding!!! 

Week 19

How Far Along? 19 Weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 3 lbs    

Baby Related Purchases: We didn't purchase anything for Claudia this week but we got some gifts!

Adam and Leslie came to Jackson on Tuesday for lunch and brought this adorable outfit with them! Ailidh picked it out! I love it and Claudia will look so cute in it!

On Saturday, I got an unexpected package from Carlisle, Pennsylvania. It was from Pamela's mom! Inside was this beautiful hand crocheted blanket! I was so touched at her thoughtfulness that I cried!

Earlier in the week, we received the bedding for the crib, everything except the dust ruffle (I think its back ordered until August). It's so fun to have it! I can't wait to get everything set up when my mom comes in June!

Stretch marks?  No :-) 

Sleep: Getting a little better! I actually didn't have to get up in the middle of the night last night. The pregnancy pillow continues to be a gift from the Lord, especially as I've been experiencing some hip pain in recent days. My body is changing!  

Movement: Claudia has been moving a lot! Sometimes the movements are small and sometimes she does flips, which are startling! I love it, though! My favorite is when Austin feels her move. Sometimes he'll just touch my belly when I'm on the couch or laying in bed. Its so sweet to see how much he loves Claudia already :-) 

What I miss: As the days go by, I'm finding myself more and more content in being pregnant. I feel like I've settled into a sense of what's normal for this short season. Sure, I'm more tired all the time and would love a cup of regular coffee, but having this precious life inside of me is totally worth it! 

Cravings: The Zaxby's craving continues....

Anything making you queasy or sick: No, thankfully!    

Gender: Girl! 

Labor Signs: No! 

Symptoms: Fatigue, Hip Pain, Round Ligament Pain (especially when I stand up or get up from laying down once I've been there awhile), Quickening

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: I was pretty tired this week since it was the last week of the semester, but I was pretty happy! 

Worries: If I don't feel Claudia move for awhile, I get worried that something might be wrong. At the ultrasound, the tech (who is the self-proclaimed "water nazi") told me to be sure I'm drinking enough water. My fluids were just a bit low last time. I think a lot of that was due to being sick all of that week. Now I'm going crazy with the water! I want to be sure her amniotic fluid is exactly where it needs to be!

Best moments this week: Everyone has been so excited that we're having a little girl! People have told me how much they love her name. It is so much fun to share our joy with others!

It was great having Adam and Leslie here on Tuesday! I had to work, but the four of us were able to have lunch together at Tulum! It was good to catch up! Following lunch, they got to see our little house for the first time.

Friday after work I went to Dirt Cheap, a bargain store that has brand name items for fractions of the cost, to check out their maternity clothes! I found some Old Navy black cropped pants (which I had really been wanting/needing for work), an Old Navy sleeveless blue blouse and a blue Gap shirt for $2.80 per item! What?! I'm definitely going back soon!

Friday night, Casey and Amy borrowed our grill and brought us DELICIOUS pork chops, grilled corn and potatoes. We are so blessed by their friendship!

Saturday, Austin had to work, but I was able to just catch up on rest and enjoy being lazy! Dad came in that night and we all went to Applebee's, where we enjoyed half price appetizers. Mary left for South Africa early Sunday morning and Dad came to see her off!

We enjoyed going to church with Dad on Sunday and had a lovely lunch at Red Robin on Sunday. We concluded our weekend by hanging out with Dustin and Jess! Love them!

Can't believe we're nearly halfway there!!!!!! 

Week 18: It's a Girl!!!!

We are so excited to announce that we are having a GIRL!!! I still can't believe it! Her name is Claudia Grace Ward :-) We are so humbled and excited that the Lord has given us this precious gift.

We are naming her Claudia in honor of all the Claudes in our family. My Dad is the third Claude on my side and Austin's great-grandfather was Claude as well. What better way to carry on the legacy of such godly men :-) "Grace" is a middle name that we both liked separately before we even met! May it be a constant reminder to Claudia and to us of God's great grace.

It was truly amazing to see Claudia at the ultrasound. She was so tiny last time we saw her and now we could see her precious arms, legs, hands, feet and face. She was moving around a lot! When the ultrasound first started she was standing on her head :-) She's already taking after her daddy! It makes sense that I've been feeling her move so much. 

We were able to see her spinal chord, stomach, kidneys, brain and her precious heart. The tech zoomed in on her heart and we could see four perfectly formed chambers beating at 150 beats per minute. It was one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life! Lord, please draw her heart ever closer to yours! 

She was moving around a lot but turned in just the right way for us to see her gender! I was so happy we didn't have to wait any longer. When the tech announced she was a girl, I couldn't believe it!!! She is already so beautiful and strong and I can't wait to know my daughter more as time goes on! Austin and I are so in love with her already! 

The doctor gave us a great report. He was pleased with her development and said everything looks good! I'll be going back in a month for my next appointment. 

After our appointment, we went for a celebratory dinner at Logan's! It was so much fun to talk about our little girl and get even more excited about her arrival!  

Saturday afternoon, we had a small gender reveal with family and some close friends! It was so much fun!! 

The table, minus the cake. 

The guest of honor! 

Strawberry cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Revealing the name! 

We were so blessed to have Austin's beautiful mom (who doesn't look old enough to be a grandmother) at the party! We celebrated an early Mother's Day with dinner at Chili's followed by a shopping spree at Target! It was so great to spend time with her :-) 

Sunday was my first mother's day and Austin made it so special! I woke up to him offering to get me breakfast in bed. He gave me gorgeous roses, a lovely card and a priceless gift. He wrote this poem for me, printed it our and put it in a beautiful frame. Of course, it made me cry! :-)  I just have to share it: 

My Wife Forever

My dear, you're a mother now, and no one may take that away. 

For me, the wife of my youth is the first role that you play. 

Never I'll say another vow to any but you, my sweetheart. 

So true the words I spoke then, and still they echo in each part. 

Indeed, let's discover how our children's lives unfold each year,

But know the Wards won't pull us from the bond that holds us near. 

Cherish each and every hour, knowing time cannot be respent. 

Without the warmth of God's love, how will we show them what He meant?

Delight that Lover's power seeks to win His bride's longing stare. 

Expect I will flirt and gaze, whisper and pursue the most fair. 

My dear, you're a mother now, and no one may take that away. 

For me, my wife forever is the first role that you play. 

Here is the weekly update!!! What a big week we've had! :-) 

How Far Along? 18 Weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 3 lbs    

Baby Related Purchases: Claudia has gotten a lot of stuff in the past 48 hours! I'm so excited! Now that we know she's a girl, bring on the pink and everything girly!!! :-)

Saturday night, Carol bought lots of goodies at Target! It was soooo much fun shopping together and we feel so blessed by her generosity! I'm in love with all her adorable clothes!

Also, Mom and Larry bought us the crib bedding! Pink and ruffles, the perfect combination!!! This is part of the ruffles collection at Pottery Barn Kids. 

Austin and I ended Mother's Day by beginning our baby registry  at Target! We had a blast! 

Stretch marks?  No :-) 

Sleep: Still pretty rough, but I'm getting used to it, so I'm not feeling as exhausted. I asked the doctor about this. He smiled and told me that probably wasn't going to change. Great! 

Movement: Claudia is an active little one! I love feeling her move. :-)  

What I miss: This week, I just missed feeling well! 

Cravings: No particular cravings this week.

Anything making you queasy or sick: No.    

Gender: GIRL!!!! 

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: Round Ligament Pain, Quickening, Fatigue

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: Well, this week was very rough. We came off of a busy weekend last week with Arica and Dylan's wedding and Variety Show. Monday, I wasn't feeling well at all, but I thought it was exhaustion/allergy related. I went to work on Tuesday with some congestion and decided to see Nurse Paul, just to be sure I wasn't sick. Unfortunately, I found out I had strep throat for the second time since being pregnant. Frustrated and upset, I headed home. Austin was actually sick with a stomach bug so we were both down. Not fun.

Tuesday night, I really started feeling bad. I was able to start a z-pack, but by Wednesday morning I was really sick and stayed home Thursday too, returning to work on Friday. It was a shorter day, however, since I left work at 3 to go to the ultrasound appointment! It was frustrating not getting everything done that I had planned this past week. This upcoming week I'll have to hit the ground running.

Because it was such a hard week, my attitude wasn't that great. I spent most of it frustrated and just feeling awful. Being pregnant and sick is not a fun combination.  

Worries: While I was sick, I worried a lot about how Claudia was doing. I still worry about the possible effect that the medicine may have on her and I worry about strep coming back. I really succumbed to these worries a lot this week. Moving forward, I pray that I can trust the Lord with these worries. It was very reassuring to see Claudia and to get a great report from the doctor.

Best moments this week: Hands down, getting to see Claudia and finding out that she is a girl! I could have watched her move around for hours. She is already so captivating! 

Week 17

How Far Along? 17 Weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +2 lbs   

Baby Related Purchases:  Mom and Larry were in Jackson this weekend for Variety Show and gave us a bunch of goodies on Saturday! We got some 3 month white onesies, 2 white flannel crib sheets, a pack of cloth diapers, a cute cloth Winnie the Pooh book, and a container for the dishwasher that is designed for baby bottles. It felt like Christmas!

Stretch marks? No! The Belly Lotion is still working like a charm! 

Sleep: Still pretty rough! My allergies have been acting up now that the tree pollen is in full swing so I've been taking Benedryl at night. Its helped a little, along with the body pillow (which we took with us out of town this weekend! :-) ) 

Movement: Still feeling flutters :-) 

What I miss: I sound like a broken record, but this week I really missed coffee (with caffeine!). Because of not sleeping well, the desire for a nice cup of hot coffee in the morning and in the afternoon around 2:30 has been overwhelming at times! I can't remember if I shared this on here or not, but in January, I did a detox that was caffeine free, gluten free, dairy free, lactose free and sugar free. So, I broke my coffee addiction. Around the time I was adding things back, we found out we were pregnant! Since lots of caffeine isn't good for a growing baby, I decided to give coffee up completely. Since being pregnant, I've only had a handful of drinks made with decaf espresso. I plan on avoiding coffee throughout the pregnancy and for the first few months so it doesn't interfere with Baby Ward's sleep :-) 

Cravings: I'm a Chick-fil-A girl through and through, but this week I've been craving Zaxby's chicken fingers, french fries and Zax sauce! I had the kids meal several afternoons this week to tide me over until dinnertime!

Anything making you queasy or sick: No, thankfully!  

Gender: May 9th can't come soon enough! I'm so ready to know if I'm carrying a little boy or a little girl! :-) 

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: Round Ligament Pain, quickening, tiredness

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!   

Worries: I'm still just hoping that Baby Ward is developing normally. I really can't wait for the ultrasound on May 9th. This week I've also been worried about maintaining a healthy weight during the pregnancy and losing baby weight once Baby Ward arrives. I know that my self-esteem is fragile right now (hello hormones!) so I'm trying to take this a day at a time and focus on being healthy. That's all I really want to do, anyway.

Best moments this week: This week was a busy one!

On Friday, we drove to Murfreesboro with Austin's Grandmother for Arica and Dylan's wedding. We had a fun car ride- the day couldn't have been more beautiful! We enjoyed a nice lunch at Jim N Nicks (finally satisfying my BBQ craving!) then headed to the wedding venue.

Arica and Dylan's wedding was at the Oaklands Historic House Museum, a lovely antebellum home. The weather was perfect! Austin was a groomsman (along with his brother Adam) and I was a bridesmaid (with Adam's wife, Leslie). Our precious niece and nephew were the flower girl and ring bearer. Arica had an array of girlfriends/cousins who served as her attendants. Austin's Aunt Nellie, assisted by her husband, Uncle Mike and sister Aunt Christa, made the delicious Italian dinner, and Carol was the photographer. Dylan's parents did the decorations and setup. It was a family affair!

I have to brag for a moment: in addition to being a bridesmaid, Leslie made our bridesmaid's dresses, Ailidh's flower girl dress and arranged all of the flowers (which included the centerpieces for the tables, all the bouquets and the corsages and boutonnieres). I'm drying my bouquet.

Following the rehearsal, everyone got ready and met back at the venue for pictures before the ceremony. The wedding started at 6 in the evening. The ceremony featured instrumental Disney music and Arica looked like a princess in her dress!

 

The reception was in a lovely hall, where dinner was served consisting of beef rigatoni, fettuccine alfredo, caesar salad and rolls. In lieu of a large wedding cake, there were delicious wedding cupcakes! At each table, there were cards with different questions guests could fill out. Austin drew an awesome picture of the couple :-) The wedding favors were little bags of M&Ms, which Baby Ward and I enjoyed following our dinner.

Austin and I danced to our song, which was wonderful :-)

The next morning, all of the Ward family that stayed in town met for brunch at Panera. It was so good to hang out with everyone! It was a gorgeous day, so following brunch, we went to a park in Murfreesboro with an AMAZING playground for the kids!! The kids enjoyed playing (accompanied by some of the daddies/daddies to-be) while the adults visited in the shade. Leaving everyone was sad, but we all get to reunite for Kayla and Brian's wedding in August! Not too far away!

Saturday night was Union's Variety Show, in which Mary was a participant! Because of this, Mom and Larry and Dad all came into town! We ate dinner at Logan's with Mom and Larry, which was great, before heading to the show!

Mary did a great job and we enjoyed ZTA's show a lot! I knew a lot of the participants, which made it extra fun for me!




Following the show, we were all hungry, so the entire family headed to Ihop! We had a great time! Baby Ward wanted an omlette :-)




The family headed home on Sunday morning, while Austin, Baby Ward and I enjoyed our day of rest :-)

Week 16

How Far Along? 16 weeks (we're 4 months along!) 

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 2 lbs   

Baby Related Purchases:  A lot of baby purchasing happened this week! The crib and changing table were ordered for the nursery! :-) They are exactly the same as the crib and changing table in my nursery, just up to all of today's safety codes. I love how delicate/vintage they look. They are from the DaVinci Jenny Lind collection:







Perhaps the most exciting thing for me personally was purchasing a pregnancy pillow! I haven't been sleeping well, partly because I haven't been able to get in a comfortable position for my changing body. So, I took the plunge and bought this incredibly comfy "Today's Mom Cozy Comfort Pregnancy Pillow" in sky blue to match our bedroom. To my delight, it only took a few days to come in so I've been enjoying it the past two nights. Like anything new, it took some getting used to, but its already helped me to sleep better! I highly recommend it!



I have to remind myself that, Lord willing, these big items will be used more than once for multiple pregnancies and children. It's so exciting to think about! :-)

The heels (mostly wedges) I wear to work are beginning to make my lower back sore. So, I bought some summery flats that are work appropriate and cute :-)

              


Lastly, my fingers have begun to swell, so Austin and I decided to purchase a temporary wedding ring. Because of previous weight gain, my wedding ring wasn't even able to slide on and off easily anymore. The last thing I want is for either of my precious rings to have to be cut off of me in the hospital! So, last night we bought a simple silver band with "diamonds" laid into the band in a size that will allow for the swelling. It's taking some getting used to, but I'm happy with it :-)

Stretch marks? No! I've still been using the belly lotion and its working so far! I talked to my mom earlier in the week and asked her what she used to prevent stretch marks. She told me she didn't use a thing and didn't get stretch marks with either Mary or me! Wow.    

Sleep: Getting a little better. I've been trying to take naps as I can. The couch is my favorite napping spot. I think its because it provides good back support when I lay on my side. I just feel like I'm tired all the time. I'm still tossing and turning and waking up a few times during the night :-( I'm hoping having the pregnancy pillow will really help! I'm also still having crazy dreams, although they're not every night anymore. My two favorite from the week: surviving a zombie apocalypse by baking and hiding in the woods to escape a Honduran coup d'etat. What in the world???

Movement: I'm feeling "flutters", properly called "quickening" on occasion. The best way I can describe it is similar to when your heart skips a beat, but in my abdomen :-) 

What I miss: A good night's deep sleep! I've really been praying for this to happen, because I know that I need it and and the baby needs it. I'm going to try to start exercising this upcoming week (probably just walking on the treadmill) to see if that will help at all.  

Cravings: Still loving lemonade! This isn't really craving related, but food has started to really taste good to me again! Up to this point in my pregnancy, I've eaten because I had to. The enjoyment wasn't really there.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I can't watch or see pictures of anything gross! Last night we watched "Les Mis" and I really couldn't watch the majority of the "Master of the House" sequence! There are so many things that are so gross during that song!  

Gender: We find out a week from this Friday, on May 9th! We will most likely make a public announcement (on facebook) of the gender and name either May 10th or 11th. I just can't wait to see an ultrasound of our precious one again! :-) 

Labor Signs: No

Symptoms: Quickening, Round Ligament Pain (its especially noticeable when standing up after sitting down for a long time), Restlessness, some swelling

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: Since beginning the second trimester, I've really felt like myself again. I still have my moments, especially if I've been woken up from a nap on the couch!    

Worries: Nothing new here, just the normal worry that everything is okay and that Baby Ward is developing normally. I'm reminded continually to give everything to the Lord. He's been reminding me this week of the vastness of His love for me and for Baby Ward. Austin and I pray every day that Baby Ward will come to know and love the Lord! It's so exciting to think about! I can't wait to know the gender so we can pray for our baby by name!

Best moments this week: It's been a good week and a great weekend!

On Wednesday, I had a phone date with my best friend, Catie! We hadn't visited in several weeks so it was great to catch up! We will be visiting her and her husband in Newport News, Virginia this summer and I can't wait!

On Thursday evening, we hung out with the Mayfields! We went to Picasso's (the first time both Jess and I have really had the desire to eat pizza since being pregnant) then played rook at our house! It was a blast! I'm definitely still getting the hang of it!

Friday evening, Mary and I drove to Birmingham to attend a bridal shower for Cassidy, my dear friend and roommate from college! We arrived late Friday night, so it was good to sleep in Saturday. After taking pictures of us all dolled up, we had a lovely lunch with my dad at Tazikis and headed to the bridal shower!

Everything was so beautiful! It was so great to see Cassidy! She looked so gorgeous and I loved being there to celebrate with her. It was fun to see Cassidy's mom and sister again, see some friends from Samford, and meet some of Cassidy's friends from church (including the groom's mom!). I was so glad we went!

It was a quick trip, as Mary and I headed back to Jackson immediately after the shower. It was good to spend some quality time with Mary and jam out to old CDs together!

On Sunday, Austin and I went to Maranatha Baptist Church to hear Brian, Austin's cousin Kayla's fiancee, preach. He did so great and the gospel permeated every aspect of the message! After church we went out to lunch with Kayla and Brian. We're so excited about their upcoming wedding in August!

Here are the photos Dad took in Birmingham:

Week 15

How Far Along? 15 weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 2 lbs   

Baby Related Purchases: I bought a really cute lacy dress to wear to wedding festivities later in the summer! I recommend the site: Pink Blush Maternity. Everything is super cute and feminine :-)

Stretch marks? I've been using the Burt's Bees Belly butter and so far, so good!  

Sleep: I'm still dreaming, but now I'm tossing and turning a lot more. This is the week that I'm supposed to stop sleeping flat on my back (it restricts blood flow to the baby) and sleep only on my side. I'm really thinking about getting a full-body pregnancy pillow! Its no fun when I don't sleep well. 

Movement: A few days ago, I felt the first baby flutter!!! :-) Wheeee! 

What I miss: Sleeping on my back! I've been able to prop my back up on pillows so I'm not flat, but it seems like when you are told you can't do something, its harder to give it up :-)

Cravings: Lemonade still tastes so good :-) The need to eat frequently has increased, so I really need to start carting snacks around.

Anything making you queasy or sick: The only time I feel sick is when I've "overdone" it, meaning if I've stood up too long or gone too long between meals. I've really gotten a lot of energy back this week, thankfully!  

Gender:  2 weeks to go!!!

Labor Signs: None

Symptoms: Fluttering :-), Stretching, some round ligament pain, restlessness

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: I've been pretty happy this week :-)   

Worries: As I've felt more stretching/pressure, or just felt things that are new, I always hope that everything is still normal! Statistically, risks or complications are lower at this point in the pregnancy, but pregnant woman emotions rarely think logically :-) I'm still just giving my anxious thoughts and fears to the Lord. It is truly incredible to me that He is knitting our child together in my womb. I feel so blessed!

Best moments this week: This week was pretty busy, Monday through Thursday. Austin had to fit 5 days of work into 4 so he could enjoy Good Friday off with me. We had such a relaxing day on Friday. I never even left the house :-) It was much needed!

In celebration of Holy Week, Austin and I started watching the History Channel miniseries "The Bible". We've only got 2 episodes left! Overall, we felt like it was well-done and it was so great to focus on God's plan for man's redemption leading up to Easter Sunday. We highly recommend it! It's on Netflix.

Dad came from Birmingham yesterday and we celebrated Mary's 21st birthday by seeing "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" and eating at Logan's. It was a great time!

This morning, we celebrated Resurrection Sunday with our church family. The choir presented a wonderful set of worshipful songs and Brother Greg preached on the simple question, "Do you believe?" This week is when Baby Ward can start hearing things, so I wonder if they heard the music this morning? :-)

We came home and ate an Easter lunch of ham, potato casserole, green beans, sliced tomatoes, crescent rolls and strawberry pie, followed by a long nap. Dad brought us Easter baskets and we took family pictures. It has been a lovely day! He is risen!!!

Week 14

How Far Along? 14 Weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: + 1 lb (I was down 3 lbs at the doctor's office)   

Baby Related Purchases: I went to Kohl's on Friday and bought a super cute black and white polka dot maternity dress! It looks 1940s/50s and I'm planning to wear it on Easter :-) I also found a super soft turquoise tunic on sale for $7. Apologies to male readers, but I also found some really comfy undergarments that are finally the same size as my growing body.

Stretch marks?  None! I've been using Burts Bees Belly Butter for a week and its now part of my morning routine. Its so soothing and I highly recommend it! I have permission to share this- this morning, as I was applying the lotion, Austin started singing "Belly Butter, Belly Time!" Oh. My. Goodness. 

Sleep: Maybe I've been just getting used to dreaming every night, but I don't feel like the dreams have been quite as intense lately. I still stay really tired and I've noticed that I'm sleeping lighter in general. Last night's sleep was pretty rough. Austin's phone decided to freak out and remind him to charge his phone at 4 a.m. multiple times.   

Movement: No baby movement yet, but I'm definitely feeling a lot more stretching! 

What I miss: Not having to eat every 3 or 4 hours! I feel like I've been planning my entire day around my eating schedule lately. I really do feel better when I don't let my stomach get empty. Avoiding "food emergencies" is generally a good idea.  

Cravings: No crazy cravings this week! I'm still really enjoying lemonade (Cracker Barrel has lemonade in a frosted mug that is sooo good!) and Chick-fil-A sandwiches with pickles.

Anything making you queasy or sick: I think I've moved past feeling like I want to gag each time I brush my teeth! I'm still not able to handle anything that is super creamy or rich. I ate a cup of Broccoli and Cheddar Soup from Panera yesterday, and it just didn't settle very well. 

Gender: We will find out at our next doctor's appointment on May 9th! However, we are planning to do some kind of gender reveal gathering/announcement (as long as Baby Ward is turned the right way!) so we won't announce it until several days after that. We will also announce the name along with the gender :-) 

Labor Signs: None! 

Symptoms: Fatigue, Vivid Dreams, Stretching

Belly Button In or Out? In

Happy or Moody most of the time: The first part of this week was really hard, since Donna Maye passed away on April 7th. I was pretty emotional because of that. As the week progressed, I felt better and we had a great weekend!   

Worries: Earlier this week, I shocked myself on an extension cord, which was not fun. I was attempting to plug in my cell phone charger to the extension cord on which part of the casing was broken. My finger was in just the right place to cause a little jolt. I freaked out! I started googling "shock from extension cord while pregnant" and was comforted by the fact that other pregnant women have done this (and much sillier) things. To make sure, however, I called the nurse on call at the Jackson clinic. She said I had nothing to worry about as long as I didn't have any other symptoms, which I didn't! I will be avoiding extension cords from now on!

Best moments this week: There were several wonderful moments this week, especially towards the later part of the week into the weekend. The highlight was getting to hear Baby Ward's heartbeat at the doctor's office on Thursday afternoon! It felt like forever before she found the heartbeat (I was trying to stay calm as she searched for it!), but hearing it was just like music to my ears! It is steady at 151 beats per minute, which is exactly in the middle of the average range for 14 weeks :-) My blood work and urine sample came back perfectly normal as well, so the visit was very uneventful! That is a good thing!

That night we ate dinner at Chili's with some dear friends who are expecting their little girl to arrive any day now! It was so fun to catch up, share funny stories and anticipate parenthood together!

On Friday, I went on a mini-shopping spree to Kohl's and bought some much needed items as well as a cute dress and comfy shirt :-) I also picked up some baby shower and wedding gifts that I ordered and bought online, but picked up in the store! I must have been living under a rock to not know about doing this! Never again will I get a headache searching for a specific registry item in the store! The day concluded with a lovely dinner at Cracker Barrel with the Mayfields (where I had their delicious lemonade in a frosted mug!)

Saturday, we started the day by doing our taxes! We have a really great tax lady at H&R Block who we've gotten to know over the years. It was so fun to share our news with her and project what kind of return we might get next year once Baby Ward makes his/her arrival! Its also good to know that we're going to get a nice return this year :-)

The afternoon was spent at our dear friend, Courtney's baby shower at Dumplins. Dumplins is the cutest, feminine restaurant that is perfect for luncheons and showers. The party was in the Garden Room, which was decorated in green and had pretty wrought iron garden furniture. It was fun hanging out with friends and celebrating the anticipated arrival of little Charlotte!

Later that day, I watched "Father of the Bride 2", which I've been wanting to watch since I found out I was pregnant! I'm such a sapp! I loved it and cried probably 5 or 6 times :-) Austin is a saint for putting up with me!

Sunday after church, I went to a bridal shower for my sweet friend, Olivia! It has been a joy to walk with her as her relationship with her fiancee began, through their courtship and into their engagement! I'm so excited for them to get married in just a few weeks!

Sunday evening, Austin took me to see "Captain America: The Winter Soldier"! I LOVED it!!!!! Captain America is my favorite superhero anyway, but the move was really really good! I highly recommend it! Just as a side note, if Baby Ward is a boy, he will have a Captain America costume :-)