Week 24- Happy New Year

December 30th- We spent the night at my parents house last night as Jeremy was getting ready to paint our bedroom today and all of our furniture was spread out in the other bedrooms. So I was spending the night with Riley and Russeau on the 29th and 30th. There is always something to be said about being "home". It will always be home to me and that is the way it is suppose to be. We of course were pampered at my parents and it was just good to relax. I made the mistake of checking my email though at my parents house so I did have to do some work while I was there. So much for a relaxing vacation.



Today my parents and myself went to the salon. My dad got a manicure. My mom got a hair style and manicure and me and the little one got a facial and hair cut. Baby's first facial!!! We were pampered as usual at the spa... due to the fact that my mom pretty much goes there every Saturday! If this little one is a girl, Jeremy better be prepared to take his little girl to the salon.


December 31st- Today we came back home as Jeremy was finished painting and almost done shampooing the carpets. He has pretty much cleaned his entire vacation and getting ready for the little one to arrive. He is so much better in this department then me. I hope our little one gets his cleaning skills! If it was my choice we would have a cleaning lady. I am still holding out for that one after all these years. It's always on my Christmas list!





The little one is moving more and more and I am starting to wake up from the little one moving around while I am sleeping. My appetite still isn't like it was in the first trimester, but I still do eat. I haven't gained much weight in the past 6 weeks, but my belly sure is growing!





Jeremy came down with a cold while I was at my parents so we didn't make it to Aunt Julie's Happy New Year party. We just stayed at home and Jeremy slept on the couch with Bob (as he didn't want to get me sick). Happy 2009!





January 1st- Today we did our family traditions that have been carried down on my side. We have to wear something new on New Year's Day. We also wash our face in real silver coins to bring health and wealth for the New Year. We also do not spend money on New Year's day, except in emergency purposes. My mom called today and said because I am pregnant that we didn't have to worry about not spending money if I needed something. So we went grocery shopping because food in the frig and freezer were not appealing to me. We just stayed at home and watched football today. Jeremy felt the baby move alot today. However the baby still does like to play tricks on him and when I say the baby is moving and he comes over the baby stops. Then he goes back to his spot on the couch and then the baby starts moving again. He is convinced the baby is doing this on purpose and messing with him. I laugh about it because I think its hilarious!





January 2nd- Today would be the day that we book Ambrosia for the baby shower!! We are going to have it on March 1st!!! Now its time to pick out the invitations. I keep looking online and there are alot that appeal to me, but I just want the perfect one. Who thought picking out a piece of paper could be so difficult?! I just want this to be so perfect for my little one and do everything right!



After we met with Jim (the owner) at Ambrosia, we met Tina for lunch at Papa Vino's. She was passing through from Chicago and going back home to Pennsylvania. I am so happy to stay in touch with her after all these years. She was the maid of honor for our wedding and we are still close. It is hard when going to college at Saint Mary's that you have friends all over the United States so it makes it so nice to stay in touch and get to see each other. I can't believe that her and I have almost known each other for 10 years now. Tina and I were talking that there is something to be said for the Saint Mary's community as that we do a good job of keeping in touch with each other. I don't know that alot of my friends who attended other schools do this. I know that Tina's class does it and my class does it. I just hope this tradition keeps going for years to come! I got to meet her boyfriend Jonathan, which I totally approve of. I can't wait to hear what will be coming of their relationship in the future!!!



January 3rd- Today was a low key day for us... we did do dinner with my parents at Portofino's, one of our usual restaurants with my parents. Our waitress Sally always takes such good care of us. She knows I love my garlic bread and constantly brings it out for me!

January 4th- Today was a fun day as I met Mary to finish the baby registry at Babies R US and thank goodness for friends that are recent moms!!! They offer so much advice and it helps out so much. She brought her almost 7 month son, Bobby and he was so good. He was so content in his car seat and I just hope that our little one is as patient and so good as he was. He is a little cutie on top of it all too! Mary and I were able to double the size of the registry within about 2 hours and I now have over 100 items on it! That was alot of stuff to look at and determine that were needed items for a little one! Our little one will definelty know Aunt Mary!! She has been a godsend through this whole process!

January 5th- After work today I met Lauren and Larry for dinner then the five of us (Lauren, Larry, Jeremy, me and the little one) all went to the Notre Dame vs Georgetown game. Larry graduated from Georgetown so they try to go to this game every year. Notre Dame was the winner! It was so great to see them and I so enjoy the memories that we are creating. The first thing Lauren did was touch the belly and I love it!!! This baby has so much love already that it is just so amazing! I am truly thankful that our little one will have the best aunts and uncles!!! The little one got to hear and feel Aunt Lauren and hear Uncle Larry!

I will also be seeing Lauren this weekend as we are doing a girls weekend at Beth's house. I can't wait!! Baby and mama are getting a facial (again). They are so relaxing and my skin needs it!

The baby moves so much at night time now and in the morning when I am taking a bath. I find myself sometimes sleeping on my stomach still and then immediately turn to my side. THe doctor said the body will let you know when you can't sleep on your stomach but I try to watch it as much as possible. I have to say that when I am up moving around the baby is not very active, but as soon as I want to sit and rest... watch out! The movement is getting more defined as I can tell the little one is growing more and more. I think I finally gained a pound in the past few weeks, but I feel my stomach has gotten alot bigger as my belly button is wanting to "pop" out.

Week 23- Christmas

December 24th- Today we spent time with Dzie Dzie at the nursing home. It is so different with him being that the holidays aren't just what they used to be growing up. It's cliche but as new ones are born, new traditions begin. I just have to think that we are starting new traditions for our little one.

After seeing Dzie Dzie, we went to Jeremy's parents house to celebrate with his mom's side of the family. Before dinner, we took Jeremy's mom aside to show her the ultrasound pictures as we wanted this to be a private moment. We showed her the little ones feet and profile pics and she cried seeing her little grandbaby. It was great to share this moment with her and will treasure this forever.

After all the baby excitement, we had an awesome dinner! After dinner Santa comes for the kids but everyone takes part in seeing Santa and I even captured a few of us on his lap! Considering that there were about 45 people at Christmas dinner, Santa was busy handing out gifts! It will be good for our little one to experience a big family Christmas as my family is all over the United States that we do not do this anymore and Jeremy's family is all here in town so it makes it a good tradition for our little one to have a big family Christmas.

After the presents, we waited for Notre Dame to take the screen and watch them in the Hawaii bowl. Man I wish I was there. It has almost been 15 years since I have been there and I kept telling Jeremy that he is going to take me and our little one for a vacation... I have a feeling he will milk this one out for another 15 years! He better start saving now because he knows that I want to travel with our little one and Hawaii is on that list. We can show him history with Pearl Harbor and that my grandpa was there during the war and I got to experience Hawaii with my grandpa and can share these stories with our little one. Oh I forgot to mention ND wins!! finally the losing streak is over for bowl games! Jeremy got his Christmas wish for a Notre Dame victory.

December 25th- Today Jeremy and I celebrated Christmas with the dogs when we woke up. We just exchanged little gifts this year, well I guess I got my digital camera, but he is getting suits for work so kinda a practical Christmas for us this year. We got stuff we needed, not what we wanted. I started to get the house set up for my family's Christmas. My parents came over in the morning and we did gifts with them. Of course we were spoiled again and so was the little one and granddogs. I can't believe how much my parents do for us and its just means the world to us. The best gift the baby received was a poem/sonnet that my parents wrote that I will have to get a really good picture of to post on here. It is a gift from the heart and priceless. My parents are all about words of wisdom and this gift is framed and will go in the nursery and be there for the little one to read everyday of his/her life.

After the gifts, we got dinner ready and Mitch, Lorissa, Brandi and Matty came over to celebrate and it was great to see them. Matty is always a good helper and will be a great influence on our little one. He always helps with the dishes and clearing the plates. He has done this since he was like 3.5 years old. I wish alot more kids were like him and he listens so good.
Today was a great day for my mom as her Christmas wish came true and she felt her grandbaby move. She loved it!!! I was happy that she was able to experience this today as I knew that she wasn't happy with my dad, but it was all good in the end!

December 26th- This was the day that we stayed home as the bypass, toll road and US 31 were closed due to icy roads. So what did we do.... we cleaned out the office today. Actually I should say that Jeremy did. I tried for alittle bit, but taking a nap on the couch was much more appealing to me.

December 27th- Today we celebrated Christmas with Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe and Kojak. My parents made prime rib for this dinner. We got away from the ham, turkey and sausage that is usually served in our family for Christmas dinner. We just chilled out at their house and just talked. The tv was off the whole time and it was good to relax and just share memories. Aunt Joan was able to feel the baby and it meant so much to her. She was so excited and so thrilled to feel the little one moving. Kojak had to partake in the baby feeling too as he wanted to be on my belly. He is such a cute little 7 pound toy poodle!

December 28th- Today we ventured out get Jeremy's suits that he needs as he out grew his other ones. We picked out 4 new suits for him today. This will come in handy with the Christmas present from my parents. We also went to babies R US and did the registry today. We literally only wanted to set it up and just clicked on a few things as I am going to go with my friend Mary who is a recent mom and she will let me know what I need to get and what can stay at the store! We then met my parents at Outpost and I got another Christmas present... UGG slippers as mine were wearing out from 4 years ago. Jeremy also got another present.... a rabbit hat that will keep him warm while he snow blows and also at Notre Dame games. He totally looks like a hunter with this hat on, but its totally worth it. I think he wore it all the way home! He is so silly!

Oh so totally venting time.... I have completely noticed other bad drivers on the road... this lady in a mini van pulled out in front of me today so what did I do... pulled up beside her to let her know how I felt (I didn't cuss or flip her off... she raised my hand like what's up don't you realize I am pregnant) She apologized..... which she should have.... I am so protective over this little one and noone is going to harm my little one without me saying something. Jeremy got a little mad at me and told me to calm down which he knows that people just need to recognize!

Week 22- The Nursery & Ultrasound

I couldn't get the blog to work correctly... so sorry the pic is at the top.... story below. This is the rocking horse that Jeremy's parents got their grandbaby.

All of our stockings at Jeremy's parents house.

The 4 kids before we received our baby gift! me, Jeremy, Adam and Elizabeth.

So this past week has been very eventful. With the economy, I was very lucky at work to keep my job, but others were not so lucky and just thinking of them at this time.

December 17th- We had our nursery furniture delivered!!! We have one more piece which is the tall dresser that we should get in February. We received the crib, the combo hutch, the changing table topper thing, and conversion kit to a full bed. I have taken pictures of the "room" before the furniture and after the furniture. The room was painted in a Disney theme because I collect the Disney snow globes so we just made a room of it. We thought this was going to be the nursery room, but guess what... I am changing my mind and want to go to the bigger bedroom which is the old guest room now. So now when we have guests spend the night, they will be in the old nursery room with a Disney theme. Jeremy is so loving me at the moment....

December 20th- Today we went to visit Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe and we received tons of goodies. Aunt Joan is a baker and she sent home rum balls, kiefles, fudge, potato candy among other goodies. We did some baking too at Aunt Joan's and Jeremy even helped in the process. We made white chocolate peppermint bark. We had to crush the candy canes, melt the chocolate and then mix it all together. We spent a few hours with them and just hanging out. They can't believe how big the belly and chest are getting. They can't wait for this little one to arrive. They love him/her so much. I just can't wait for them to meet!

Later this evening we had the Bowering Christmas party at Jeremy's parents house. they were excited for us and some of the aunts kissed the belly. I totally love the attention the belly is getting as I think this is so important for stimulation of feelings for the baby and to know how much he/she is loved.

December 21st- We celebrated Christmas with Jeremy's parents, Adam and Elizabeth today. Jeremy's dad did the cooking, which I miss so much from living there. He is a good cook! He made a roast with vegetables and salmon. I did not partake in the salmon as I try to stay away from seafood during pregnancy. After dinner, we opened up presents and this is always fun. I just can't wait for next year for our little one to open up gifts and see his/her face when doing this. This year, the baby received a rocking horse from Jeremy's parents. It is so cute and even makes noise! I can't wait for the baby to be big enough to ride it!

December 22nd- Today was the ultrasound. Our appointment was at 8:30 this morning. We actually didn't start until about 8:50 as the technician wrecked her car. The weather hasn't been the best at all lately so I felt so bad and wasn't mad that we were running behind. I was very nervous today as all I wanted was a healthy baby. We didn't care about finding out the sex, just wanted the most important gift, a healthy baby.

So it was time for the ultrasound and to be honest as she started to pull up the baby/placenta/my bladder on the screen... I had no clue what was what. Thank goodness for labeling on the screen! Once she pulled up where I could see the baby it was so amazing. It was very easy to pick out the spine but that was about it, well besides the face. We saw the little ones feet first and that is our first picture that we received. I was relieved to know that our little one had legs and feet! Next was the arms and hands... again said another thank you to God. She showed us the head and did measurements on the brain. We then got to see the stomach, heart and kidneys. All of which look normal according to the doctor. I do have to say that we have a stubborn little one though...which Jeremy is already saying is my child. Since Jeremy and I are both polish.... this little one is already carrying on its heritage!

So after the doctor came in to tell us the reports from the pictures I did get some tears as I was just so relieved to know that everything was ok.

We then went to the car and I called my mom and dad and they were so excited to hear. We called Jeremy's mom and told her and then called Adam to get ahold of his dad and told them.

Later that night, Jeremy had basketball and I decided to go up to my parents and took the ultrasound pics with me. My dad went through them thoroughly and pointed out some things as this is so normal of him to do. He is very detailed and wants to know everything! My mom was cooking meatloaf for dinner and I was getting hungry so we stayed for dinner. The baby started to move and my dad was sitting the closest to me and I told him so he got to feel his grandbaby move. My mom wanted to be first so bad, but my dad beat her to the punch. So now gramps has felt the baby. How special!

So this week, the baby moves alot when I am taking a bath. It is pretty consistent in the morning now. The baby is also moving a little more during the day and then also more and more at nighttime. This little one has been very good to mama.

So I was able to capture another picture of Bob on the pregnancy pillow. He loves it!

Week 21- Party time!

December 9th- Today we had lunch with Mary and its so good to see her and keep up doing lunch once a month. I got the update on Bobby and also received a picture!! He is such a cutie!! Mary and I talked about pregnancy and she had some wonderful words of advice. She is such a great listener and also provides honest feedback to me on things which is great! Thanks Mary... what would I do without you. You always seem to understand the drama!



December 10th- Today would be my last class of auditing (well at least I hope).... I took my final today. I was excited to come home and just relax. Jeremy and I did our usual betting on Jeopardy. He always wins agianst me, but its fun that we have the competition. During the show, he put his hand on my belly just to see if he can feel the baby, which we both think is way too early to experience because most women are just feeling the baby move themselves at like 20 weeks and just too much padding there for him to feel. I think it will be at least another month before he will be able to feel. At least this is pretty consistent with what my friends have told me. It is usually the 6 month... 6.5 month mark when they can start feeling the baby move. Anyway, it will happen when it happens! No rush on things.

December 12th- We had Jeremy's Christmas party at Yesterday's and it was alot of fun. Mama ate good today because I had my luncheon at work and had 2 salads and lots of baked ziti. Then at Yesterday's I had another salad and then prime rib and a fudge brownie for dessert. It was good to hang out with Jeremy's coworkers and catch up with them on the holidays.

December 13th- This was my Crowe Holiday party at Century Century. I hate calling it a Holiday party... so to me its a Christmas Party! I was the chair this year of the event and with budgets being cut... and we all know Budget is a bad word for me. I tried to do my best but it wasn't as good as Jeremy's party. I will take Yesterday's anyday! The photographer that we had at the party was a family friend and I can't wait to see some of the pics!!

This morning Jeremy was able to feel the baby move. We were laying in bed this morning and I was laying flat and wanted him to see if he could feel. I guess the trick is laying down... I was sitting up before. So he felt the baby move a few times this morning. My mom keeps wanting to feel the baby so we will see the next time they are over if the little one is moving for her to feel.

My dad stopped over this afternoon and we chatted for awhile. Of course he put his hand on the belly.... it is adorable because he is one passionate Grandparent and its awesome... I just couldn't wish for anything more.

December 14th - Today I had my spa party at the house and it was nice to just have a few people over. Jeremy's mom and my mom both kissed the belly, which is very cute. I just love it. I finally got to see the ultrasound pictures in person and they were pretty awesome. I just love the profile of my nephew Harrison.

So to wrap up the week... the baby is moving more and more. A little more active in the mornings again, which I am not complaining about one bit. The baby is also active at nighttime as well. There are a few points in the middle of the day, but not much. Russeau now gets up with me in the middle of the night when I have to make those bathroom trips so he usually gets to be in bed with me and Jeremy. Riley is starting to realize that Russeau is out of his home so she usually gets let out now. I am getting into bad habits with them because they all slept through the middle of the night, but because I am making my bathroom breaks they are getting on my schedule. Bob is the only one who sleeps. He loves his bed in his home and he is like is daddy... not moving for anything. Right now Russeau is my monkey see monkey do one.

Week 20- We're half way there..... (love Bon Jovi)

December 2nd-- We hit the half way point in the pregnancy and its been wonderful. I am still feeling great. Eating is about normal and I have that prego belly. I have received so many compliments that I am such a cute prego lady. I just love it!!! Everyone at work has been so nice and always stops to asks to see how I am feeling and how I am doing. I have become the "little mama" in my department and so love it. They all look forward to the outfits that I am wearing since I am still wearing pretty much all new clothes that I received from Mary, Jen, Missy and Terrie (thank you ladies).

December 3rd- Today was a great day for several reasons. Today would be the day to find out if we were having a niece or nephew. I must first start out by saying that I emailed Elizabeth and Adam first thing this morning from work (like I always do when they have an appointment..... I think it is so important to do this and also because I just love my soon to be niece or nephew) and wished them luck at their ultrasound to make sure that everything was perfect and healthy for them and the baby. I now know that their appointments are later in the day... well I had my last class for school this evening and when class got out, I called Adam and they had the results but they were waiting to tell the parents first so totally understand that one. They were planning on coming over to our house to show us the pics but I had plans with my best friend Andrea for dinner at Yesterday's in Granger! So I would have to wait for the results... but I did find out that they did see the heart, brain, and spine and everything was so far so good! (Prayers were answered).

So I met Andrea for dinner and her and I always have so much fun together. Our dinner turned into almost a 3 hour dinner with just her and me... we laughed so much and told stories and just couldn't stop cracking up. we sat in the bar room where there was a fireplace and became friends with the table next to us that had 2 guys and 2 ladies....(they were there for business). Andrea and I kept on ordering food and splitting everything. It was so much fun. when it came time for dessert we got the fudge brownie and ice cream... well of course this brought attention to us even more because if you have ever been to Yesterday's.... their desserts do not come in a small size... it is all MEGA size! needless to say we did not finish the dessert, but it sure was good. When we finished dinner the girls that we met were a little tipsy and gave us hugs and didn't want us to leave... it was pretty funny and entertaining at the same time. So it was almost 9:00 and we had been with each other since like 5:45.... we decided that we couldn't go shopping so we both headed home, but Andrea first had to say goodbye to the baby... she was so cute... .she was like this is your Aunt Andrea and we can't wait to meet you... she is already planning trips over the summer when I am on maternity leave to be with me and the baby. How sweet is she... she is just so awesome. I told her that we are very lucky to have her in our lives and that I have some really good friends that have really come through during the pregnancy and take the time to call and check in and ask how we are doing... so thoughtful!! I knew that my friends were special, but you don't realize until you hit some important times in your life.... So thanks to all our wonderful friends!!! We love you.

So on my way home Jeremy called and said that Adam and Elizabeth left a message... so finally I was going to find out if it is going to be a niece or nephew... now if we go back a few weeks in my blog, I made the comment about cravings and what Elizabeth was craving and what I was craving... I said that she was going to have a boy and that we are going to have girl based on this.... So would the prediction be correct....... YES!!! We are going to have a nephew to spoil!!!! This is gonna be one lucky little boy with us an an Aunt and Uncle! Congrats to them and we can't wait to meet him.

ok - so when I got home we had some Christmas cards and I loved the one that Lauren, Larry and Rascal sent us... she addressed it to Sami, Jeremy, baby-to-be, and pups Miller.... how adorable is that.... This is going in the baby book!!! Thanks Laur... you are so sweet!!!

So this wasn't the end of the evening... last night I crawled into bed and started watching my soaps because that is just what I do... I know I am crazy for watching soap opera's but it does relax me and Laur will be happy that its ABC soaps that I have watched for the past 20-25 years of my life! So Jeremy finally comes into bed and Bob decides that he wants to crawl into bed with us... totally fine we don't mind having the dogs in bed with us... they are like our kids. Anyway, so I am getting ready to turn the TV off... Jeremy is sleeping and Bob has his head on the pillow next to Jeremy's head.. I just couldn't resist and I had to take a picture. Bob did wake up a little, but Jeremy stayed asleep. Also I was able to catch Bob in the morning laying in between my pregnancy pillow... I finally captured it! He loves to snuggle and have a bed around him.. Such a spoiled dog he is... Any indication of what our child will be?!

December 4th- We went to see Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe today with my mom. It was a long day, but worth it. Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe are so excited for this little one. They can't believe how much I have grown in the chest area and they both hope this little one is a hungry one because looks like mama will be able to provide enough for the baby! The baby had its first conference today (not work related) as we met with Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe's lawyers to go over paperwork. We went all over Michigan today too... we were in Dowagiac, Eau Claire, St. Joseph, and Niles. It was a great visit with the family. Oh- we also got a gift from Kojak (Aunt Joan and Uncle Joe's toy poodle) for the baby shower. It is something that we can use!!! They can't wait for this little one to arrive and Aunt Joan tells me that she will not walk with the baby as she can't walk very sturdy, but she will just hold the little one. She is just so loving. Her and I talk at least twice a week. She calls in and checks on me and it is so wonderful to have that. Her and I are so close and I love it.

When I got home it was pretty late, but worth it. Jeremy had my Christmas present opened and ready for use... he got me a Nikon digital camera with 2 different lens!!! I was so excited. He got action photos of the dogs greeting mama as soon as she gets home. We also tested it out with the dogs so I have attached some pics of that.

Daddy with Riley

Me with Riley

Me with Russeau, Riley and Bob

Getting some lovin' from Bob and Riley

So I have to say that my mom sends her daily emails checking in on me and the grandbaby. She does this everyday and its so nice. she can't wait for this little one!!!

December 5th- Today I went over to my old department to visit with everyone. I talked with Danielle and Tammy. Tammy always touches the belly everytime and she is going to be a wonderful aunt. It's so fun to have this experience with my friends.

So I have to admit that I am noticing a change at nighttime with the little one and sleep patterns. I am finding myself tossing and turning more at night to get comfortable. The pregnancy pillow helps, but then I get hot so I end up putting the pillow on the floor during the night. It's all worth it though.... Oh I do find myself making trips to the bathroom more and more. My friend David told me that he is helping his wife Becca out of bed in the middle of the night as it is getting difficult for her to get up on her own. I told Jeremy to be prepared for that one!

December 7th- Today my parents came over and took us to lunch. I also showed off the camera that Jeremy got me. I was able to catch some photos of the dogs when they see Grammie's car. They just love her to pieces! I've attached a few pics of the granddogs!

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After we had lunch with my parents, we went to see Dzie Dzie and he still tells me that I am having 2 girls. We shall see if he is right in a few weeks with the ultrasound.

So after we got back from Dzie Dzie's, Jeremy's mom came over with our St. Nick stockings. This was very sweet of her. We normally get them when we celebrate Christmas so this was a good surprise for us.

Week 19- Turkey week!!!

November 25th- So I talked with Dr. Molly yesterday and it was good to catch up some more. I am so proud of her for almost being done with her residency and becoming a Doctor. She keeps tabs on her future niece/nephew and asks how everything is going, which is so appreciated. Thanks Dr. Molly!!!

I also scheduled our childbirth class, newborn/take baby home class, and breast-feeding class yesterday as well. So that was nice to get those items done and one less thing to do! Jeremy isn't excited about attending the breast-feeding class as it might be uncomfortable for him to see another mom nurse with her baby, but its life! He said he would be fine with me, but watching someone else would be kinda weird.

I also signed up for the baby steps program that Notre Dame offers. I have to check-in with a nurse and she will check in with me during the pregnancy and answer any questions that I might have along the way. This is a great program that is offered by the University as its a great resource as well.

We are getting ready for Turkey day at Jeremy's parents house. We are taking a fried turkey over there (well Jeremy is going to cook it at their house) and I am making polish noodles and my parents are bringing shrimp. There could be up to 40 people at Thanksgiving dinner! How awesome is that. It will be sad as we won't have Grandma Swartz with us this year. It is the first holiday without her so I am sure there will be lots of tears and happy memories talked about. A positive thing to look forward to is next year our little one will be super excited and hopefully sitting up and maybe crawling around to people. I will have my hands full next year with a little one! thank goodness Jeremy will be a hands on dad and will jump right in to take care of little "Willis". I have a feeling though that Grammie and Grandma will have no problems watching their grandbaby. Well Pam will have her hands full too with her other grandbaby so my mom might have to be in charge of our little one and we can't leave Gramps and Grandpa out either...

So Riley is nesting with me too... she is starting to gather items around the house and make herself a little nest. It is really cute to watch as she has the motherly instinct in her. I will post some pictures once I get the pictures downloaded!

So I went shopping with Margie (our neighbor) on Black Friday. Her and I have done this for 3 years now. We departed the house at 3:30 in the morning and our first stop was Kohls.... then Meijer's.. then Target. We made a trip home to drop off stuff and then headed out to Grape road for the mall, Sam's Club, Babies R Us and then we ended at Olive Garden. We met up with Jeremy's mom, Aunt Julie and Aunt Lisa. They had just pretty much started there shopping day as we were ending ours. We got home around 1:ooish and we both took naps in the afternoon and relaxed the rest of the night. I was in bed at 8:00 that night!

November 29th-- Do I even want to mention this day... Notre Dame did not have a good game today and they haven't since I have been attending the games.... I wonder if that is a sign??? They won all the games that I was in attendance for this year, which isn't saying much.

I had to work on my research paper this weekend... which wasn't the best way to finish a holiday weekend, but I had to get it done.

Week 17 and 18-- My dad's birthday and doctor visit

Bobby on my lap/belly. He likes to lay on me whenever Russeau isn't around so we had to capture the picture. We are trying to get Bob to give kisses to the belly, but so far he just puts his paws on the belly. He loves the boobs though if you can tell. He is always climbing on them and putting his paws there.



This is a picture of me at 16 weeks. I can't believe how much of a little belly I have!! I love it!!! It's really starting to look like I am prego and not just gaining some weight!

Me at 10 weeks....
Me at 6 weeks...

So I am catching up this week as I did get a little behind on the blog. I am starting to show alot more with my clothes! My belly is sticking out and it is starting to look like I am prego instead of just gaining some weight. I will try to post some of the pictures so everyone can see the baby growing! (Debbie thanks for the idea) I have been using the pregnancy pillow that I received from Mary (she is letting me borrow hers) and then also Jeremy got me one as well. They are very comfy... I still have to get used to it though as my neck sometimes hurts because of a different position than what I am used to, but it does give my back support which is wonderful! I totally recommend for all prego ladies to get one. Here is the link

http://www.amazon.com/Leachco-Back-Belly-Contoured-Pillow/dp/B0002E7DIQ/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1223922771&sr=8-1

I usually leave the pillow on the bed in the morning and then cover it with our down comforter... we leave Bob out running around the house during the day and the twins are in the kitchen. We have come home to Bob curled up on our bed in between the pregnancy pillow so he is getting some use out of it as well. I will try to capture a picture of this because its pretty funny. Jeremy said that once we are done with the pillow we are going to have to figure out a way to get the pillow in Bob's home so he can enjoy it. Can you tell the Bob is daddy's favorite!

The baby is starting to move more and more... its funny because the baby was active in the morning after I finished breakfast, but now before I go to bed, the baby seems to be moving around more and more. It's not alot, but definitely more than a few weeks ago.

My favorite holiday snack just came out.... Chocolate Charlie and I am starting my little one off right. If I have some of this then I can down a huge glass of milk so it works for me, plus there are peanuts to give me protein in the candy as well. I just can't pass it up. I've already went through a whole box of it (which is so usual for me around this time). Jeremy knows that he isn't allowed to touch my box of Chocolate Charlie... its all mine!!!

So we received a phone call from Alex from Lanser's where we purchased our nursery furniture. Most of our pieces should be in January, however our tall dresser is not going to be available until February which will be fine with me. As long as its here before the baby, I am good to go with that!

I've talked with a few of my college friends this week who are on the east coast... Tina in Pittsburgh and Molly who is in New York doing her residency and she is currently in pediatrics. She is filling me in on what she has experienced and she got to perform a circumcision. She put me at ease with this procedure if we have a boy. I know that we will have our own personal doctor on hand for any questions! Thanks Dr. Molly!!!

So this leads to another funny story that Jeremy has preceded to tell me how I will be the minute I go into labor. I have a friend, Tony, who is a police officer and he patrols near where we live. When I was working late hours on the client service side, I would call him and he would follow me to the barrier of where he could and if he wasn't on a call to make sure I got home safe. So now the theory is that I will call Tony so we can have our own personal escort to the hospital. I am seriously thinking about this one... you all know me!

I am continuing to feel great...sometimes in the morning after I get ready I have to take a break because I over do it quickly so I am trying to learn to slow down just a little. I am tossing and turning at night because I want to make sure that I am sleeping on my side, but I constantly change positions so I am waking up alot. Also, it doesn't help that the twins are in bed with us and they are usually sleeping between my legs so its a challenge to move in the middle of the night. I find myself moving them, but they always find their way back to mommy. Sometimes they sleep closer with Jeremy, but lately its been all me!

Last weekend, we went to Lisa's house for spa night and it was relaxing and good to get out with the girls! Nothing like a warm neck wrap and warm socks!!! It was a ton of fun and looking forward to the next party!!!

November 21st- Today I had to do some shopping at Sam's Club for Aunt Joan and I asked Pam ( Jeremy's mom) if she wanted to do lunch since I was going to do the shopping on my lunch hour. We had lunch at Panera and she couldn't believe how big my belly had gotten since the last time she saw me. It was good for her and I to hang out alittle bit as it has been a very long time for that. She always touches the belly which is so wonderful and I am a firm believer that the baby can feel all the touches and all the love. It will be excited to see who the baby will respond to once I am further along.

November 22nd-24th== We had my college friend Pammy, her hubby Mike and their dog Lucy in town this weekend for the Notre Dame game. I didn't go to the game and doggie sat while watching the Notre Dame game. Adam went to the game with Jeremy which was nice for them because they haven't done anything in so long. I guess that is what marriage does to you over time. I remember the days when Adam would come over for dinner, but those days seem to be long gone now. Adam did bring me over a surprise which was a box of Chocolate Charlie when him and Elizabeth were shopping. So greatly appreciated as it is my favorite!!! It was great to hang out with Pam and Mike and see them during the pregnancy and for them to see me grow. They are so happy for us and it is so sweet of them.

November 23rd, we celebrated my dad's 60th birthday at my parents house with the family. It was great to see everyone and enjoy some family time. I will post the pictures once I can get them from my moms camera.

November 24th- We had our check-up at the doctor today and we invited my parents since it was my dads birthday today and what better gift to give him to hear his grandchild's heartbeat. The heartbeat was 155 so not as fast as last time, but still showing signs of a girl if you believe in the old wives tales. My measurement was a 20, which the doctor said is right where I should be. However, I need to watch the weight gain.... I am ok, but on the higher side right now. I have gained 12 pounds so far and will be 19 weeks tomorrow. The nurse said me sleeping on my stomach isn't a problem and that my body will let me know when I can't do it anymore.

Week 16- The nursery complete!!!

So this week started the feeling of the baby's movement. At least that is what I am believing it to be. It is almost in the morning after I finish eating that I can feel the baby move. I've been drinking OJ so I heard that the sugars will make the baby move. It's very faint and not every morning... just if my legs are up closer to the belly.

This week we have talked to Aunt Joan on our usual basis. She always checks in to see how her "little mama and baby" are doing. She is so sweet and cares so much about us. I just love her so much!!! If we have a girl, she will be learning all of Aunt Joan's baking secrets!

So on Thursday this week, Lisa and I went to the Taste of Poland at her church in Michigan City. It was good for the two of us to hang out like the good old days. I know those days are gonna be limited in the future. We saw her family there and her grandma has been praying for us. I almost cried when she told me because how wonderful and thoughtful of her to be praying for our family.

On Friday, I talked with my mom (Grammie)... actually I should say that my mom and I email everyday... she checks in with me and her grandbaby to see how we are doing. She cares so much and doesn't want to miss anything. So we talked Friday night and my mom received Teacher of the Year for Riley High School. She will be up for Corporation teacher of the year in the spring. This is her fourth nomination since she has been teaching!!! GO MOM and GRAMMIE!!! She is setting not only a wonderful example for me, but for her grandbaby. She is so successful and her work ethic is so strong... She is being rewarded for something that she loves to do! Good Luck!!!

On Saturday morning I had breakfast with my grandpa and dad at my grandpa's house. He touched my belly and was very happy about the next great-grandchild. He will be getting 2 great grandchildren next year that we know about right now. My cousin Pauline and me!

After breakfast, my parents came over and we went to pick out the nursery furniture at Lanser's. My dad hadn't seen the furniture so I made sure to take him so he could look things over and test out the crib to make sure that it met his safety standards. We purchased the crib, dresser, hutch, and a changing table to go on top of the hutch. We are still in the process of doing the research on the mattress we should get for the little one. So that will be the next purchase that we make to finalize the nursery on top of picking out a rocker so mama can breast feed. The furniture will be in about 6-8 weeks!!! We can't wait!! Once the furniture is in we will have to let it "breathe" for about 6-8 weeks before we do anything to do because of any chemicals that are used.

This week my upper back has been hurting a little bit and I am trying to determine if its the way I am sleeping. I am trying to sleep on my left side as much as possible right now so it will prepare me for later in pregnancy.

Week 15- Doctor's appointment

October 29th- So today we had a doctor's appointment and we heard the heartbeat immediately again. Thank you God! I asked the doc what the heart rate was and he said 160. Our little one was moving around alot when he had the doppler on my belly. We have an active little one. Our next appointment is scheduled for November 24th, which is on my dads birthday. We will not do an ultrasound at this one, but wait until our next appointment to do one. I did ask the doctor about my belly button and he said that it is very normal for the belly button to be sensitive during this time. So far I only gained a pound since my last doctor's visit... in total its been about 5 pounds that I have gained. I also asked him about my milk intake because I don't think it is where it should be. I've been having a hard time drinking milk lately. the prenatal vitamins will have the calcium in it, but if I wanted to I could take a supplement. He said this was very normal as alot of adults do not drink milk as they get older. So all in all everything seems to be going really good.

October 30th- Tonight Jeremy and I went out to see my Dzie Dzie at the rehab/nursing center and we helped him had out candy to the trick or treaters. Dzie Dzie didn't want us to leave he was having a good time handing out the candy and then we went back to his room to watch Wheel of Fortune. It was 7:30 and they were getting ready to get all the residents for bed so we decided to leave. He had a great day today. He knows about the baby and keeps telling me 2. He also kept telling me to sit down (I was standing next to him when we were handing out candy).

October 31st- Today was Halloween and Jeremy and I had fun handing out the candy to the little ones in the neighborhood. My mom stopped over after work and sat with us for awhile. She had a great time. She can't wait till next year when our little one is here!! We already have a costume for next year. Jeremy had to get it when we were shopping at Macy's. I think it was more for Jeremy's entertainment more than anything!!!

We had a party to go to at Aunt Julie's tonight and it was alot of fun. We talked with Jory (Brittany's boyfriend) about accounting. We visited with Aunt Kellie, Aunt Jill, Uncle Jeff and Sue and Tom... of course we still need to figure out the next girls night out.

Aunt Julie is so adorable as she is the first one to tell us that we are gonna have a boy. So far its been all girl predictions. We shall see....

Jeremy's mom gave us a book about prayers for our newborn. It was very sweet. We haven't started reading to the baby yet but will be in the next few weeks. So this will be a perfect start!!!

Update on mama and baby- so far so good. I am getting the rest that I need and still eating alot.

November 1st- Today the Irish played Pitt. Since the weather is suppose to be getting colder in November, I decided that I wasn't going to go to the game. Jeremy went with my dad. My dad realizes the importance to spend quality time with his son and its great. I am very lucky that they have a great relationship. So I took them and dropped them off for the game and picked them up after the 4th OT.... poor ND, they lost. My dad treated us to dinner after the game and I got my carmel apple too after the game!! Baby and Mama are so spoiled!

November 2nd- Today we went to Gina and Ben's house for waxing. Andrea, Lisa and Jenny were all there too. We had fun just hanging out and talking and so glad that I have such amazing friends. They are so much fun to be around and they care so much about the baby and always ask how we are doing. We are very lucky to have so many friends that care and take the time to ask how we are doing. Thanks!!!!

So after I finished eating dinner I thought I felt something in my belly move and think it was the baby. It would make sense since I just finished eating and I had my legs scrunched up so it was a little easier to feel. I told Jeremy and then he started to talk to my belly. I wanted to see if I could feel something again from his voice... all I felt was his vibration of his voice on my belly. He still continues to call the baby "Baby Willis". Only daddy would come up with a name so funny.

All in all, after 15 weeks I can't really say a bad word about pregnancy. I love it!!!! the baby has been very good to mama!

Week 14- Baby's First Concert

October 21st- We have finally reached the second trimester!!! Today I received a poem from Debbie that I truly believe it sums up what I am about to experience and wouldn't change it for the world.


www.dltk-holidays.com/mom/motherhood.htm I had tears in my eyes after reading this.


October 22nd- Today we received a lullaby CD from Molly, Jesse and Abby. I can't wait to start getting the nursery ready and put a CD player in there so we can listen to it! I am sure that Jeremy will have to burn a copy for his car and my car as well!!!


Today we had dinner with the girls, Andrea, Lisa and Meg. We went to Granite City at UP mall and had a very fun evening. We all told stories and laughed alot! It was what we all needed! It's times like this that you realize how important friends are to have. I know that I have the greatest friends in the world and couldn't appreciate them more.

Andrea got the baby an adorable baby blue boy outfit and also a purple dress with little ruffle underpants! She just couldn't decide and had to get them both!!! They are so adorable!!! Thanks Aunt Andrea-- already spoiling your neice or nephew!

When I got home from dinner I noticed that Russeau was breathing heavy and was hoping that it would subside after awhile...well it wasn't. We called the emergency vet at 10:20 at night and they recommended that we bring him in.... so we got there at 10:55 and didn't leave until after midnight! They took x-rays on him and determined that he had some congestion in his lungs and might have asthma. They put him on antibiotics and we need to go to our vet on Saturday for a check-up. Needless to say I didn't go to bed until 2AM and then checked on Russeau every hour to make sure he was doing ok. We had him sleep in bed with us and he slept between mama's legs. I decided to work from home on Thursday so I could monitor Russeau's breathing and if I did need to take him to the vet I would be able to.



October 24th- So today would be the day that I would relive my grade school days with the childhood boy band of my dreams. NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK!! Well I have to back track a little and say that it first started with my dad and me making the trip to Chicago. My dad took the day off of work and so did I to do a father-daughter day and also he drove me to Chicago so I wouldn't have to drive by myself during my pregnancy. Such the best dad in the world! Since I am documenting what baby and mama are going through I am going to put personal things in this. So since a common thing to happen during pregnancy is enlargement of breast size... I have already experienced this. I haven't been able to shop at normal stores as they do not carry my size, I was a 32G prior to becoming pregnant. So my dad and I parked at Water Tower Place and walked over to the 900 shops on Michigan Ave. My mission was to go to Intimacy where they specialize in a proper bra fitting. (thanks Lisa for telling me about this store) I didn't make an appointment and decided to take my chances for a walk-in appointment. My dad decided to go to Ethel's and enjoy a coffee while I did my personal shopping. Well come to find out my size has increased to a 32HH. Yep... I have majorly increased in the chest area. As my dad said... "Jr" will be a happy little guy if its a boy!


So now the shopping was done we had to have a late lunch. We decided to go to the Cheesecake Factory since its right there. I decided to have salad and a pizza and my dad had soup and salad. It was so cute because my dad tasted my meal just to make sure it was ok! So at lunch my dad gave me money to pay for the bras which was totally unexpected but so appreciated as they are super expensive. He wanted to do something to help out with the grand baby and be practical.

So after lunch we wanted to go get Garrett's popcorn on Michigan... so we walked down the few blocks to where it usually is and guess what... they moved as a hotel is going in on Michigan Ave. Needless to say we were running out of time and I had to meet the girls at the hotel so we could do dinner and then go to the concert. So we headed out of downtown Chicago and went to the hotel near Rosemont/Allstate Arena.

We arrive and met up with the girls. My dad stayed at the hotel and did homework and took a nap while we were at dinner and the concert. The girls (Lisa, Leslie, Kelli, and Stacie) all went to Giordano's for dinner and then the concert started at 9:00. We arrived 10 minutes before the first act... Tami Chynn (didn't have a clue who she was-- however I am sure the men in the audience liked her show). She played for about 15 minutes and then Natasha Benningfield played for about 30 minutes and she was great. She even went out in the audience after her performance to sign autographs... how cool was that! Then it was time for the main act... NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK!!! I have never heard so many screaming women in my life. It was awesome!!!! So they opened with Single... their new hit. Followed shortly by "the Right Stuff"... They looked awesome and really good. It wasn't cheesy or anything. They performed so many songs... During the middle of the concert when they were doing their single hits during wardrobe change... I ran to the bathroom really quick with the girls next to me that we met. One of the girls needed a female product and I said I couldn't help as I was pregnant. They let me cut in front of them and then the person in front of them let me go ahead too. How sweet was that?? Strangers were so nice and it was great.

So I came back and it was great timing because the best was in the middle of the show where they came to the back of the arena and did their "piano" performance and they were so close... it was great!!! It was like you could almost touch them. My favorite was seeing Jordan's shirt wide open.... sexy!!! Another favorite was at the end of the show when they do their encore and we knew they had 2 songs to play.... step by step and hangin tough. Well they came out and did Step by Step... I just can't even describe how wonderful it was. They did another bow and then they came back for another encore to Hangin' Tough... Oh my gosh... You wouldn't have thought that with women screaming for 2 hours straight that it couldn't get any louder and it did. This was the best part of the show... They ended on such a good note! It was like you didn't want it to end. During the concert I was feeling my belly alot and just thinking that my baby's first concert was my first concert in seventh grade... how neat is that!!! On top of it all too.. my dad took me to my other New Kids concerts in seventh and eighth grade and it just seemed to complete the picture when he took me to this New Kids Concert. Memories of a lifetime!

October 25th- We took Russeau to the vet for a check-up and he is fine now. I guess he is getting us used to being up at night and going on very little sleep. Today was a relaxing day as mama and baby needed to catch up on rest. We are both doing good and feeling great. My belly is starting to get alittle hard, but not always.

October 26th- I had my little cousins Matty's birthday party to go to today. He had a bowling party and it was so adorable to watch all those kids bowl with the bumpers up. They were having such a fun time. I was also told my Lorissa and her mom that I am having a girl. ALot of people are predicting a girl for us. I am not sure if that is because I am a girlie girl or what it is.... only time will tell.

October 27th- Mama turned 30 today! It was a great day. I got to spend lunch with my friends and dinner with the family. What could a girl ask for? We went to Hani Yori's for dinner and it was good!!! Baby enjoyed the food and everyone touching her belly! Gramps still gets the award for touching my belly the most. He touched it a few times during dinner and I know the baby will definitely know his touch. Jeremy still calls the baby "Baby Willis" my dad calls the baby "Jr". It's funny how everyone has their nicknames for the little one already.

I think I want to start doing a poll to see what people think I might be having. I have rarely heard anyone say that I am having a boy.....it's pretty much been all girl predictions.