Momma's Monday Check-in: 32.5/40 (or, hopefully 32.5/38!)

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 7.5 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 30

Cravings/Aversions: None

Pregnancy Symptoms: My fingers are swollen, and my hip joints are really loosening up. Even side-lying is uncomfortable now--too much pressure on my hips!!

Sleep: Andy brought Roscoe back in the bed, I think he gets better sleep with this arrangement. It's not been so bad the last few days, and I do love being close to Roscoe at night. We've been staying up until 11:30 and 12:00, which is dumb, but Roscoe's also been taking 3 and 4 hour naps in the afternoon, and I've been able to join him for at least part of that time. It's given me both a chance to catch up on rest, and to have quiet time during the day.

I can't live without: I broke down and bought more maternity clothes. I started out this pregnancy with every intention to remain stylish and sexy for 40 full weeks, with the help of Bump It Up by Amy Tara Koch. All I can think about now is comfort. That. is. all. I've never weighed this much and I have NOTHING to wear. I've even run out of pajamas. So I threw out all the rules and bought a bunch of comfy stuff. Items that will last the next few weeks and become staples postpartum. Stretchy tanks; sweat pants and stretch pants with full panels. Oh my gosh, I feel so much better!

I am looking forward to: My prenatal appointment was rescheduled from last Friday to tomorrow.

Best moment this week: I had the opportunity to attend a hospital birth on Friday morning! Also, our Valentine's Day weekend was awesome! We had an amazing, and much needed, date night and devoted most of the weekend to quality togetherness. I'm refueled for the busy week ahead.

Aha Moment: Roscoe's birthday party is almost fully planned (we're trying to save ourselves from the stress of party planning in the weeks following Little Sears's birth). A good friend of ours pointed out that this time next year we'll have a one year old and three year old. Crazy how the time will pass whether we like it or not.

Milestones: I feel like my face has finally been taken over by the pregnancy. So big and round, I'm counting down the days to birth-day and the start of weight watchers.

Movement: This baby has developed a mean cervix punch.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: Lifting weights was a success this week. Of course, there's always room for improvement, but doing something a few times a week feels so much better than not doing it. Most nights I'd so prefer to veg out and catch up on things in the evenings, but I'm glad that I'm making the time for exercise.

Diet: I'm hungry all of the time! And being tired doesn't help. Ugh...while I'm really counting on a baby next month, the reality exists that I could be pregnant for another 10 weeks (unlikely, but still!). I'm getting a little nervous about the potential for insane weight gain in these last weeks.

Goals for the upcoming week: Lift weights twice, take advantage of the forecasted fifty and sixty degree weather (SPRING is coming!!!) and walk with Roscoe at least twice in the afternoons--it may be the perfect opportunity to finally download a book on tape.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: Light cramping, with a few more substantial (and uncomfortable) ones mixed in.

Momma's Monday Check-in: 31.5/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 8.5 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 29

Cravings/Aversions: None

Sleep: Decent. Roscoe's back in his own bed and after a few nights of 4 and 5 wakes, his sleep has improved a lot. It's nice to be back in my own bed, alone, with Andy (and my many support pillows).

I can't live without: Knowing that the end is near (sort of)! I've been feeling trapped in my own body lately, and it helps to know that this pregnancy won't last forever.

I miss: (and I think Roscoe misses) more lap room.

I am looking forward to: A 32 week prenatal appointment on Friday, and Andy has the day off so he gets to join us. Andy and I have a hot date on Sunday night, and the Bradley Babies Toddlers' annual Valentine's Day party is on Sunday.

Best moment this week: I learned to de-bone a chicken!! Such a simple and useful thing to know how to do. We also finished the nursery, although something is missing and I have yet to figure out what. When it's truly complete I'll devote a whole post to the baby's new room.

Aha Moment: I finally noticed my linea nigra. Maybe I've just been too busy to look for it, and it seems a lot lighter than last time. It's also really crooked.

Milestones: Only five more weeks of work, and so much to do!

Movement: I've actually been enjoying his movement more recently. I think it's because he feels so big and I can easily make out his baby parts. His feet have been front and center.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: I lifted weights last week and made that the focus of my workouts. Even though I felt big, I felt strong too and that inspired me to keep at it.

Diet: I only gained 1.5 pounds last week...not 2!

Goals for the upcoming week: Workout twice, enjoy Roscoe while Andy is on his overnight Vegas trip (for business), and have a fun-filled family weekend.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: More light cramps.

Momma's Monday Check-in: 30/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 10 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 26

Cravings/Aversions: None

Sleep: I'm just waiting for the pregnancy insomnia to resume in these last weeks, but for now falling asleep and staying asleep isn't the problem. Roscoe, our little steam roller, is the problem, and establishing a different routine before the baby comes might be a good idea--for me but also for Roscoe because I'm not sure how he'll fare with little brother's frequent night wakes/nurses and Momma getting in and out bed at all hours.

I can't live without: Dates with my girlfriends. I went to high tea on Sunday and it was energizing.

I miss: It's only been less than a week, but I already miss wearing my wedding rings!

I am looking forward to: SPRING. Warmer weather, sunny skies, a new babe in arms. I can't wait. Also, I get to attend a birth in February as part of my certification requirements for Bradley!

Best moment this week: I organized ALL of my photo files in Aperture, which is a huge accomplishment because I have tens of thousands of digital files dating all the way back to 2002. I decided to catalog the files by year and month and now I finally have a system that makes sense and that works for the way that I take photos.

Aha Moment: I'm really enjoying work days that end at 1:00pm. Roscoe's been napping later in the day which means that I'm still able to catch a short snooze after work. I'm loving the long days and all the Roscoe and Momma time that we're getting to spend together.

Milestones: Let's see...30 weeks down! My engagement ring has been benched thanks to moderate swelling. Heart burn has ramped up.

Movement: There's a BABY in there, and I can feel all of him all of the time.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: I lifted weights this week and made that the focus of my workouts. It actually felt really good, and made me want to do it again last night. I think this is progress!

Diet: I've really been enjoying food lately. I've been trying out a lot of new recipes and have been having FUN every day in the kitchen. The downside: I can't seem to escape gaining at least two pounds every week. gah. MUST slow down! I think the baby gains about a half pound every week from here on out, so that other pound and half? It's hard to imagine that I'm overeating by THAT much every week, but I suppose it's possible.

Goals for the upcoming week: Go to the gym twice (just trying to be realistic!).

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: I've been having some noticeably consistent (as in once a day) light cramping. I hope this means that my body's working on some early dilation/effacement. At 34 weeks with Roscoe I was 2 cm dilated and 80% effaced.

Momma's Monday Check-in: 29/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 11 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 24

Cravings/Aversions: I have been so thirsty this week!

Sleep: My new schedule of waking at 5:45am to begin work at 6:00am has taken some getting used to. Otherwise I've really been enjoying snuggling with Roscoe at night even if I do sleep lighter and wake more frequently when he's around.

I can't live without: Lists. I've been a fanatic again lately with my lists, and I haven't felt this insanely productive in a long time.

I miss: Putting on pants is a challenging balancing act these days, and I feel sick when bending over to put on and tie my shoes. I like the belly, but I look forward to dressing with ease in a few short months.

I am looking forward to: I've been wanting to take a knife skills class for over a year now, and knowing that I will be more or less attached to a newborn for many months to come, I'm taking every opportunity I can find to carve out (ha!) "me" time for "me" activities. Luckily Andy has been obliging me. Wednesday I'll spend the evening julienning, mincing, and de-boning!

Best moment this week: The nursery is 98% complete! We're just waiting on the chair, which is half painted, and possibly a rollie pollie if I can first find a fabric that I love, and then convince my mom to sew it for me! Oh, and a crib mattress, I guess--even though we have no intention of having the baby sleep in his crib. Still it just feels weird to have a crib in the nursery without a mattress. We also created a craft closet for Roscoe, which was a big organizational chore that I've been itching to tackle. Finally, our birth plan and "after birth" plan are written, which just feels nice.

Aha Moment: My list will not get shorter if every time I cross an item off I add another (or two).

Milestones: I now more or less weigh what I weighed when I gave birth to Roscoe! Remember that I started out heavier this pregnancy. Still, I thought I had gained 46 pounds with him, but my midwife says 36--I'm not so sure about that. And I passed the glucose tolerance test!

Movement: It seems that the baby rarely sleeps--he's always on the move.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: Ugh.

Diet: Ew.

Goals for the upcoming week: To continue to make progress on my Bradley certification requirements, try out a cinnamon raisin bread recipe, and seriously though--figure out how I can continue to stay active despite all the challenges I'm experiencing right now.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in (28/40)

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 12 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 22

Cravings/Aversions: None

Sleep: I can barely climb up into our bed now. But once I'm in, sleep is pretty good, even with Roscoe crawling all over me.

I can't live without: Tums are still saving the day.

I miss: The ability to turn over in bed with ease. And sleeping on my stomach.

I am looking forward to: My prenatal visit was rescheduled at the last minute because another client of my midwife was in labor that morning. So now I'm looking forward to THIS Friday.

Best moment this week: I washed the baby's cloth diapers, and purchased all the miscellaneous items like shampoo and pampers swaddlers for the early days. It feels good to know that we're basically ready for his arrival. My list of "before baby arrives" to dos is getting shorter and shorter.

Aha Moment: I can't wait to see the Roscoe/baby brother dynamic. This morning he told me that the baby is "sleeping" and "growing", then cradled his arms together to show me how he wanted to "hold" the baby. Then he offered my belly his vitamin and his sippy cup. Melt my heart!

Milestones: Our nanny had her last day with us on Thursday (sad!), and the new nanny starts on Tuesday. As for the pregnancy: fat fingers, the swelling has begun!

Movement: In addition to the usual, he's been creating an overall belly shake/vibration with what I can only imagine is full body stretches.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: I did my workout and I didn't enjoy it. No!!!

Diet: Nothing to report here. I gained a pound last week.

Goals for the upcoming week: Repaint a wooden chair for the nursery, and paint the constellations on the wall.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 27/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 13 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 21

Cravings/Aversions: none

Sleep: Co-sleeping with Roscoe is proving not to be the saving grace we first imagined. He's such an active sleeper, and prefers to be in contact with my body at all times. The belly makes it difficult to find comfortable positions to sleep as it is, and Roscoe's constant tossing and turning is making our bed even more uncomfortable.

I can't live without: Tums....the heartburn is BACK.

I miss: Still waiting to get well, and going on five weeks of sickness. Make the coughing stop!

I am looking forward to: A prenatal appointment at the end of the week, and hopefully passing my glucose tolerance test.

Best moment this week: Andy came home!

Aha Moment: Parenting as a couple is so much more fun than doing it alone.

Milestones: I experienced my first middle-of-the-night leg cramp. Yay?

Movement: Like Roscoe, Little Sears seems to prefer the right side of my uterus.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: I made lots of prep progress this week! I finally purchased a weight bench, which will be delivered tomorrow. After being honest with myself that my typical "all or nothing" approach just isn't working at this stage in my life, I decided that scaling back my expectations would help me to follow through with a workout plan. So I identified a workout routine that is only three days a week, includes a weight component and a cardio component and can be completed in a little over an hour. The important thing right now is to do SOMETHING.

Diet: After several weeks of wild weight gain, I decided to write down every morsel of food that went into my mouth. I didn't intend to cut calories but of course I was on better behavior since I was holding myself accountable. I averaged about 2000 calories every day. Hopefully I'll hold steady for the next couple of weeks...or maybe I'm just on the path to gaining 46 pounds like last time!! I also planned out my meals this week to help me to stay satisfied and on track while Andy is away (again. boo.).

Goals for the upcoming week: To have a successful first week on my new fitness plan and find time to blog more!

Belly Shot: For fun and comparison, here is my belly at 27 weeks with Roscoe:

and 27 weeks with Little Sears:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 26/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 14 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: meh...20.

Cravings/Aversions: none

Sleep: Roscoe begins the night in his bed, and ends the night in ours. I think Andy and Roscoe are sleeping better, with fewer interruptions, but I never have been able to sleep deeply with Roscoe near. Also, he prefers to sleep on or as close as humanly possibly to me, so I often wake contorted into different positions to accommodate his acrobatic sleeping style. I've had less insomnia since he joined us in bed, and I do prefer our bed to the couch in the loft, so overall I think it's working out for everyone.

I can't live without: Stretch leggings! They are not the most flattering item in my wardrobe, but really, they can't be beat for comfort.

I miss: I've been sick or recovering from various colds/bronchitis for the past 4 weeks. I'm tired of being sick! I miss being well.

I am looking forward to: A 1 1/2 hour prenatal massage on Sunday. Oh I can't wait. My body feels so pregnant right now.

Best moment this week: We finalized Little Sears's name (and bought the two brother's matching Big Brother/Little Brother shirts with their names stitched onto them--there's no turning back now!), we found a storage solution for Roscoe's clothes, since his dresser now belongs in the baby's room, and I washed and put away the newborn layette. We hung up most of the accessories and also purchased the paint to refinish a wooden chair for the nursery, which is about 80% complete! It felt out of the ordinary and so productive to make that much progress in one weekend.

Aha Moment: I have only 10 weeks left until I take maternity leave.

Milestones: I'm officially in the third trimester!!

Movement: I know that fetal movement can be really amazing, but I've reached the point where I find the baby's constant movement to be a little nauseating. He rolls and bolts around most of the day, which mostly feels like a huge rumble in a big empty stomach.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: When I was pregnant with Roscoe, we were still in our normal routine of working 9-5, commuting home, and heading straight from the commuter lot to the gym. No excuses. Andy and I both worked out 6 days a week, even when we didn't feel like it. Relatively speaking, I've been a total slacker this pregnancy. Over the past month or so I've averaged 2 times a week. So many things are different now, but my desire to be be fit, and strong hasn't changed and I'm hoping to make the most of the time left in this pregnancy. Unfortunately, I know it won't get any easier once the baby is born.

Diet: The month of December was far too kind. I'm so glad that January is finally here.

Goals for the upcoming week: Andy is out of town for the remainder of this week, and Monday through Friday of next week. My mom volunteered to babysit a few evenings so I can go to the gym, but otherwise, I may just lift weights and do some plyometrics in the garage. I was feeling motivated over the weekend and bought a new food journal, and a new workout resource book to help inspire me.

Belly Shot:

This is the worst quality belly pic yet!

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 25/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 15 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 13.5, last I checked--but I haven't checked in two weeks and now I'm afraid to!

Cravings/Aversions: none

Sleep: Roscoe resumed co-sleeping with us in Florida. We had dreamy nights full of slumber, and have decided to continue now that we're home. With Little Sears on his way I'll have to work out the details if this becomes our new routine.

I can't live without: Family. We were thrilled to spend an entire uninterrupted week together, and being separated from extended family over the holidays made us that much more appreciative.

I miss: I really missed my salt pig of fleur de sel. I should have packed some for the road!

I am looking forward to: Friday, when I will get to hang out with Roscoe and Andy all day and play with our Christmas bounty.

Best moment this week: Watching Roscoe's excited little face light up with each gift he unwrapped. And then to hear him exclaim in a high pitched voice, "tink-ew!" It was too sweet.

Milestones: Roscoe put a plastic little toy man under his t-shirt and called it a baby :) I didn't expect Roscoe to be very aware of the baby or of his impending big brotherhood, but he understands a lot more than we think.

Movement: After our first two days at Disney World I realized that I hadn't felt the baby move at all, and got a little worried, but I must have just been too busy to notice because the little guy soon picked up his acrobatics and hasn't taken a break since. I can pretty reliably now feel his little rump under my ribs, too.

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: Our resort had an on site gym and I welcomed the convenience. I lifted weights twice, and took the elliptical for a good spin. I also spent 5 straight afternoons roaming around the Disney Parks so I hope I burned some calories in the process.

Diet: We ate most dinners at home and packed lunches for our park days, but I will not lie and say that I had a balanced and nutritious diet while away. I ate A LOT of chocolate covered treats, in the shape of mickey mouse.

Goals for the upcoming week: My workout gear arrived and I can't wait to test it out. Three times at the gym is my goal.

Belly Shot: I'll try to post a picture soon.

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 24/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 16 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 13.5, last I checked.

Cravings/Aversions: none

Sleep: We're all still struggling to get well after three weeks of shared illness. Sleep has suffered.

I can't live without: A nice break from reality every now and then. A warm weather escape is going to be just the thing we need.

I miss: Running. It's a guaranteed calorie burn/feel-good workout. Even though it's cold outside I don't like knowing that I probably couldn't do it comfortably, even if I really wanted to.

I am looking forward to: Christmas in Florida! Disneyland was a childhood staple in our house, and I can't wait to experience it again for myself, but also to share the magic with Roscoe.

Best moment this week: The nursery is 75% complete!! The curtains are hung, the walls painted, shelving installed, and the main pieces of furniture are in place. I think I might have a new favorite room in the house. Roscoe's nursery got a toddler makeover and now he has a newly organized space with plenty of room to rough and tumble. The boys' rooms are side-by-side and I love to stand in between the two and take both in at once.

Milestones: For the first time when the baby moved I could feel both sides of my belly moving--he's taking up the space now!

Movement: Lots!

Gender: Boy!

Exercise: After all the great comments I received last week to encourage me out of my workout slump, I was finally moved to buy a few new items from fit2bmom--they're having a sample sale! This week I'm hoping a change in environment and warmer weather will entice me to work out and counter all the Christmas treats that I plan to consume.

Diet: I'm glad that January 1 will bring a new beginning and a mental restart for my diet/nutrition goals.

Goals for the upcoming week: Have fun!

Belly Shot:

Hey! Good start, I did 30 minutes on the elliptical and a full body circuit! All before 8:30am.

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 23/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 18 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 13.5

Cravings/Aversions: none, although I realized that poached eggs have been the staple of this pregnancy. With Roscoe it was bagels with cream cheese and tomato.

Sleep: The three of us have been sharing a virus of some kind--it started with Andy, passed to Roscoe last week, and now it is my turn. I lost my voice over the weekend and the coughing alone has made all the muscles in my torso sore. Night coughs are awful, but coupled with pregnancy insomnia I'm really struggling with rest.

I can't live without: The Internet. Christmas shopping is complete and I did it all while lounging about on the couch.

I miss: my income before childcare expenses and part-time work hours.

I am looking forward to: We leave for Florida at the end of the week! A warmer climate, and Roscoe's first Disney experience will be a different way to spend the holiday.

Aha moment: There's not much to happen between now and the baby's arrival besides weight gain...

Best moment this week: I really enjoyed my prenatal visit on Friday and when Susan felt for his little body and quickly found his head down low, she stated "yep, that bounces like a little head--looks like he's head down!" It sank in a little deeper that our boy is in there doing his thing, and making early preparations to be born. I know he's only a pound a half but I can already picture him in my arms.

Milestones: I threw up for the first time this pregnancy! I have no idea why, but it happened during a morning tooth brush. Interestingly, I threw up only once with Roscoe, also while brushing my teeth.

Movement: He's quite active! When I read at night I rest my book on my belly now, and he's bumped my reading material several times in the past few days, which is always amusing.

Gender: Still a boy!

Exercise: This past week did not work out the way I had hoped. I made it to only one cycling class early in the week and have been couch surfing most evenings in the hope of ridding myself of this terrible sickness.

Diet: I've been trying to drink more water, with some success. I didn't gain anything last week so that is a good thing.

Goals for the upcoming week: Get well, meet my work deadlines, pack efficiently for Florida, find time to workout at least twice.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 22/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 18 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 13.5

Cravings/Aversions: fresh squeezed orange juice

Sleep: Roscoe's been sick this last week so that means lots of night parenting for me and Andy, and not a lot of zzzs.

I can't live without: The Internet. I'm having way too much fun searching for nursery gems.

I miss: La Leche League meetings--Roscoe and I used to go every week when we were just starting out but we haven't been in a long time because his nap schedule and my job have proved a challenge to work around. I attended a great meeting on Saturday in order to meet part of the requirement for my Bradley certification. It was inspiring, and affirming, and helped me to figure out what I want moving forward from my and Roscoe's nursing relationship.

I am looking forward to: A midwife appointment on Friday. I will be traveling to her this time, so Roscoe and I will have an adventure crossing state lines to Maryland.

Aha moment: Reebok has a new maternity fitness line at Destination Maternity...unfortunately, it looks a little blah to me.

Best moment this week: Andy painted the nursery this weekend and it is distinct, and sublime. I love it. My purchases over the weekend have taken the room in yet another direction....

Milestones: Carpal tunnel syndrome?! My left pinky finger was numb much of last week, but has improved over the weekend. I'll have to wait and see, but this pregnancy has been filled with all kinds of new aches and pains, so I won't be shocked.

Movement: I've been trying to figure out what position the baby is in but I've deduced that little guy still has plenty of room to move around and hasn't settled into any one spot.

Gender: It's a boy!

Exercise: The weather has definitely turned so walking/running outside has lost its appeal. Cycling continues to be my exercise of choice, for the moment. I'm also looking into buying a heater and a weightlifting bench for our garage--I think we'd use our weight set more frequently and more efficiently if we had a bench to use.

Diet: I logged my food for my upcoming midwife appointment, and after looking at the big picture I learned:

1. I should drink more liquids--most days I only drink 1 to 1.5 12 oz. bottles of water

3. I should eat more green vegetables, or more vegetables in general

4. I am enjoying mightily my fair share of chocolate/homemade goodies

Here's the first day I logged for November 30 (a side note: a grocery run was imminent and there was no meat to be found, otherwise I would have eaten some! Bare cupboards also account for beets in the morning.):

Breakfast: 8:00 am

1 cup roasted beets, 1tsp olive oil, lemon, Fleur de sel

1 egg

1/2 whole wheat pita

1 tablespoon hummus

1 slice low fat cheddar cheese

8oz water

Snack: 10:20 am

2 clementines

1 tablespoon peanut butter

4 mini mozzarella balls with balsamic vinegar, Fleur de sel

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

Lunch: 12:30 pm

1.5 cups butternut squash soup

6oz. hot chocolate, 1 marshmallow, 1 small gingerbread cookie

Snack: 2:50 pm

1/2 whole wheat pita

3/4 cup fresh beets

1 slice low fat cheddar cheese

Dinner: 6:00 pm

3/4 cup whole wheat pasta with peanut sauce

6 spears asparagus with Parmesan cheese and lemon

1 cup pineapple

Snack: 8:00 pm

6oz. hot chocolate with 1 marshmallow and another piece of chocolate

Total Protein: ~71 grams

Goals for the upcoming week: Exercise 3 days, lift weights twice.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 21/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 19 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 11, maybe more--with Thanksgiving dinner on last week's agenda I didn't weigh myself

Cravings/Aversions: Chinese food

Sleep: Meh. Could be a lot better.

I can't live without: My good husband

I miss: Having the opportunity to nap on a whim

I am looking forward to: Trying on Sakura Bloom slings this afternoon. I'm finally going to see them in person and take one home. Update: I loved them as much as I had hoped, and I bought the essential linen in Raven/Driftwood. Such a splurge, but it is the only thing that I really, really wanted for myself for this baby.

Aha moment: I *think* we picked a full name for Little Sears but we're testing it out over the next few weeks. We probably won't share until he's born because I have an aversion to referring to a baby by name before it arrives. Is that weird!?

Best moment this week: There were quite a few, but topping the list: Baking up a delicious storm in the kitchen; giving Roscoe, Mack, and Noah the opportunity to have cousin time to play and wrestle to their heart's content; finding our Christmas tree; and wrapping all of Roscoe's presents.

Milestones: I picked out all the paint colors and a color palette for the baby's room: Dark gray for the walls, a lighter, bluer gray for the ceiling, and a bright blue, pumpkin, and apple green for the accents. Tangible progress is being made and my felt mobile FINALLY arrived.

Movement: Little Sears is most active in the evenings and in the middle of the night. For the first time I could make out part of his little body sticking out on my right side, and we can feel his kicks and punches from the outside now on a regular basis.

Gender: It's a boy!

Exercise: I tried a spinning class this week--something I haven't done in a long time, and it was a nice change of pace. My gym offers only one evening cycle class each week but, luckily, the instructor plays good music (the primary variable by which I judge cycling classes). It looks like for now, at least, Tuesdays will be my night for spinning and weights. We also ran 3.5 miles on Thanksgiving morning with our neighbors, which felt like a lot longer to me, and gave me some hip pain as a reminder not to run anymore.

Diet: I made good on my promise to not make a week out of Thanksgiving leftovers. As yummy as our Thanksgiving feast was, particularly the turkey and gravy, I declined all offers to take any of it home. That night I was disappointed not to have a buffet to raid downstairs, but I'm glad to have thought ahead.

My personal goal for this pregnancy has been to gain around 25 pounds, and I have a little chart by which I track my weight each week. At this rate, I'll probably gain closer to the average 35 (or more!). So I can either increase my exercise, or cut back on extraneous holiday eating. Doing a little of both sounds like the best approach.

Goals for the upcoming week: Exercise 4 days (lift weights at least twice), track my food intake for three days (per my midwife's request), and have a productive work week after such a nice holiday.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 20/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 20 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 11

Cravings/Aversions: None to note.

Sleep: I need more sleep. Andy and I made a pact to be in bed at 9:00 for the next three days to see if it makes a difference. Sounds simple. Think it will work?

I can't live without: Fall treats like white chocolate covered pretzels with peppermint, iced gingerbread cookies, and sparkling apple cider.

I miss: Sumo San sushi, in Richmond

I am looking forward to: My upcoming five day weekend and Thanksgiving Feast!

Aha moment: Maternity leggings=comfort, comfort, and comfort. I bought three pair and I don't think I want to take them off! I'm sleeping in them, working in them, and going out and about it in them. Also, our local Gap Maternity MUST invest in more than two dressing rooms. Saturday lines were crazy ridiculous (> 25 minutes), and pregnant women are not the group to make stand in a line and wait on end. I ended up trying my stuff on in the bathroom...

Best moment this week: Beginning to piece together Little Sears's nursery, bit by bit!

Milestones: I felt the baby's first two BIG kicks. I also felt a small one from the outside.

Gender: It's a boy!

Exercise: I tested out a new routine at the gym: interval training on the elliptical interspersed with circuit weights. It was a nice change of pace but a little boring. Oy. If I know one thing, it's that I have to love my routine or else I won't stick with it. The search continues.

Diet: In addition to all the sweets that are on my mind, oranges and spinach have been a staple every day--not to mention lots of other fresh fruit and veggies. My point is, junk on my mind, whole foods on my plate!

Goals for the upcoming week: Mmmm, Thanksgiving is in two days! My goal is to enjoy the holiday with my family and make time to bake a few special goodies (marshmallows and hot cocoa, almond butter cream rolled cake, and cheese souffle). I'm also going to make a point to not allow Thanksgiving day to become Thanksgiving week. Know what I mean!?

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 19/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 21 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 11 last I checked but it's been over a week, and I only weigh under special conditions, so we'll have to wait on this!

EDIT: yay!! only 10 :)

Cravings: Spinach salad

Sleep: Pretty good once my head hits the pillow. Since Roscoe doesn't care that a time change has occurred, we're really still on the old schedule as far as the morning goes (up at 5:30!) but then we stay up until at least 10:00 to keep up with our shows and the rest of the world who has adopted DST. I'm tired!

I can't live exercise without: proper maternity attire and supportive shoes

I miss: Same as last week: hips that don't ache.

I am looking forward to: Getting started on the nursery! I've picked out my inspiration piece and will share it in another post.

Aha moment: Running isn't going to be in my exercise vocabulary for much longer. Hello Elliptical.

Best moment this week: There were a lot of great moments this week, but one that hasn't been mentioned: my belly finally popped. For sure.

Milestones: I'm going to be a momma to TWO boys!! Also, Roscoe was born at 38 weeks which means I could be at the halfway point in this pregnancy. Oh, and lots of Braxton Hicks!

Movement: Starting Wednesday I've been feeling the baby very regularly. Can't wait for the outside kicks!

Gender: It's a boy!

Exercise: I ran my 10k race this weekend! It will get it's own post, but it felt like an acheivement to meet the physical challenge. I ran strong and the views of the Potomac river were lovely. I bought a new pair of shoes over the weekend which completely solved my knee issues, but within 15 minutes after crossing the finish line hip pain had me hobbling and waddling the rest of the entire day. It hurt so bad last night I wanted to cry. Ugh. I will be recuperating over the next few days.

Diet: While I was away last weekend, Andy did a mini-shopping trip at the grocery store, which didn't go very far and by Wednesday it was slim pickin's in the fridge and pantry. When faced with such a predicament I have a tendency to leave fruit and healthy/tasty items for Roscoe if a trip to the grocery store isn't imminent. By Friday I was ravenous for some fruits and veggies.

Goals for the upcoming week: I'm working on a new routine now that my race is complete. We're headed into Winter soon and while I used to run in all temperatures I'm not going to do it this year. I need to find some lower impact activities that I can enjoy indoors. Spin, elliptical, rowing, and WEIGHTS--I must lift them.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 18/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 23 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 11....eek.

Cravings: Vietnamese food

Sleep: I slept in a hotel room (alone) for the better part of last week, which felt pretty great.

I can't live without: My little Roscoe. I haven't spent much time with him over the past week, and I miss him so much.

I miss: Hips that don't hurt. I've been so achy this pregnancy, something I didn't experience the first time.

I am looking forward to: Baby Sears's Reveal Party. Tonight!!

Aha moment: Choosing a birth place well aligned with your birth values and goals goes a long way in helping to ensure that you have the kind of birth experience that you want.

Best moment this week: Sharing Roscoe's birth slideshow with the group at my Bradley workshop.

Milestones: To gain 5 pounds in a week feels like a worthy milestone. I hope that it's temporary, and the result of a generally sedentary week and a detour from my typical diet. 17 weeks to gain 6 pounds, and 1 week to gain 5. oh darn. Pregnancy is full of surprises!

Movement: I feel enough subtle, irregular movement to know there's something in there. But that's about it.

Gender: The ultrasound is at 1pm today! We'll find out with the rest of the gang at 6:00pm. My vote teeters between boy and girl. I can't decide if I should wear blue or pink. Suggestions?

Exercise: I ran on Monday. That's all! It was a tough week in the exercise department because my days were packed with work and workshop.

Diet: Hmm, since I was away from home I had to rely on hotel food and other conveniences, but as a requirement of my workshop I did follow the Bradley Diet for the last four days.

Goals for the upcoming week: I'd like to run twice before my race this weekend. A couple short runs would be perfect. And I really need a new pair of running shoes. My knees have ached after my last few runs which is a good indicator that my current shoes are done.

Belly Shot: Coming soon. So behind!

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 17/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 23 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 6

Cravings/Aversion: None to think of.

Sleep: It was a tough week. Not a lot of sleep for me.

I can't live without (or at least I don't want to): Roscoe's nanny.

I miss: Having the option to sleep on my stomach. Some nights that just sounds so comfy and preferable to side sleep.

I am looking forward to: The Bradley instructor course starts this week on Thursday!

Aha moment: I am privileged to know Roscoe and to have the opportunity to parent him.

Best moment this week: Hearing the baby's heartbeat was nice. Even though I'm obviously pregnant, confirmation never gets old.

Milestones: 17 weeks feels so close to halfway!!

Movement: I've had a few episodes of distinct activity, but Little Sears doesn't seem as active as I remember Roscoe being at this stage.

Gender: We find out in 9 days! The menu is set, and the decorations have been chosen! I'll be wearing blue to the party.

Exercise: I boxed on Monday, ran 5 miles on Tuesday, and then went to boxing on Friday. Despite my best intentions I never made it on my second run, nor did I lift any weights. Boo.

Diet: We bought some Irish Butter during our weekly grocery spree. It is SO delicious that I devoured several loaves of bakery bread just so I could eat more of it. Halloween is over too, which is a good thing.

Goals for the upcoming week: I'll be staying at a hotel Thursday through Sunday so, realistically, I'll get two or three days of cardio in. Hopefully at least half of those days will be for running.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 16/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 24 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 6

Cravings: Hmm, Halloween candy!

Aversions: None.

Sleep: Sooo tired. I sleep on the couch in the loft now to avoid extra nightly disturbances since I'm still having a really hard time falling back to sleep if I wake up.

I can't live without: Our extra deep, super comfy sofa, three pillows, and my favorite quilt.

I miss: The satisfaction that comes from crossing items off my to-do list. I don't even make to-do lists anymore. That's just weird.

I am looking forward to: My second prenatal appointment is this Thursday. I'm ready for some face time with my midwife, and to hear the baby's heartbeat again.

Aha moment: Roscoe's spontaneous kisses are the best pick-me-up.

Best moment this week: I went to a baby shower over the weekend and it made me really excited to pull out all the new-baby gear that we have in storage, and to inventory Roscoe's layette. I have great memories washing and folding newborn clothes, and organizing them in the nursery.

Milestones: I think my feet are starting to swell already...what!? They've been really tight at the end of the day for the past two days. Nooo, it's way too early!!

Movement: The last few days I've felt more little bumps, but not as often as I'd like. They are definitely getting stronger though.

Gender: We find out in 16 days! The menu is set, and I've moved on to the decorations. I haven't thrown a party in a while, and even though this is going to be low-key, I have a few (probably considered dated) ideas that I've really been wanting to try. Tissue pom poms anyone?

Exercise: I ran 4 miles on Sunday, 3 miles on Friday, and boxed on Wednesday. I meant to run a five miler last night but it got dark before I got home so I rescheduled it for this Tuesday. I'm trying to coordinate my long runs with a girlfriend of mine, which is so much better than running alone.

Diet: With Halloween candy overflowing a bucket downstairs, and a few festivities centered around food, I'm all sugared out. The number on the scale's moving up too.

Goals for the upcoming week: Two days of running, two days of boxing, and ugh I need to figure out how to fit in two sessions of weightlifting (three would be better, but I know that won't happen).

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 15/40

Note: McFatty Monday's is no longer! Instead I will post Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 25 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 5

Morning Sickness: I'd say it's gone, finally.

Cravings/Aversions: Nothing to note.

Sleep: 8 hours of (still) interrupted sleep is not nearly enough. An earlier bedtime might do the trick, but I have only so many hours in the day to get everything done.

I can't live without: I've said it before, but I love this pregnancy journal by Tracey Clark. The best part is that I filled one out in detail for my first pregnancy, so I have a great reference to compare the two.

I am looking forward to: I'm struggling to think of something for the upcoming week, what does this mean?!

Aha moment: My obligations to other people, to myself, and to my work, has me feeling a little blue. I just can't seem to keep up with it all. I'm tired. And it doesn't seem to be getting any easier.

Best moment this week: We organized all of Roscoe's baby stuff, and cleared out the new baby's room to create a nice open space for Roscoe to play in for the next few weeks, until we get serious about nursery design.

Movement: Sporadic, and not very pronounced.

Gender: We find out in 23 days! I'm currently browsing my cupboards o' cookbooks in search of a perfect menu for our Reveal party.

Exercise: I boxed twice this week, which was a big deal for me. Otherwise, I hate to say it, I didn't do much besides a couple family walks in the evening.

Diet: We recently replaced a broken component of our blender, so I've been on a smoothie kick! "Monkey Milk" has been a favorite of mine for many years, and it never gets old: 1 cup skim milk, 1 cup lowfat vanilla yogurt, 1 cup ice, 2 medium bananas, 2 to 3 tablespoons of peanut butter. Blend!! Low calorie? Not so much. Dee-lish? Yes!

Goal's for the upcoming week: I really need to find time to fit in my "long" runs. I do believe I have a 10k in just a few weeks...

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: None

Momma's Monday Check-in: 14/40

Note: McFatty Mondays is no longer!! Instead, I will be posting Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 26 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 4

Morning Sickness: I still tire easily and need to eat frequently, but going to bed earlier (9pm) and fixing small meals throughout the day helps a lot.

Cravings: Fresh squeezed orange juice, bacon (ew.)

Aversions: Meat, full-fat cheese

Sleep: Roscoe continues to want to sleep in our bed at night, which means that I'm hyper-alert and not able to get much rest. Work 4 days a week means no naps, either.

I can't live without: Long tank tops. I have four cotton maternity tanks from H&M that I love, leftover from my first pregnancy. They are a staple and I wear them almost every day for working out, lounging, and sleeping.

I am looking forward to: Seeing The Social Network. Now to find a babysitter....

Aha Moment: There's not a lot that I NEED for this baby, but a linen Sakura Bloom Sling is at the top of my WANT list. The fabric is gorgeous and this How To video made me dreamy for slinging a snuggly brand new baby.

Best moment this week: A stranger noticed my belly, and asked if I was pregnant. Not really the BEST moment this week, but a memorable one!

Movement: Still mostly faint, but getting stronger.

Gender: The Big Ultrasound is scheduled for November 9th! We're planning Little Sears's Big Reveal party, which will be low key, but fun to organize.

Exercise: Another good week. I went to Glow in the Dark kickboxing on Tuesday night (hilarious!), ran 3 miles on Monday and Thursday, and had a family walk of 3 miles on Sunday. I also lifted weights once.

Diet: I'm a little curious about the fact that I haven't gained anything in the past few weeks. I was hoping to gain less this pregnancy than last (which shouldn't be too hard, since I gained 46 pounds!) and so far so good (even though I did gain a lot of it in the final weeks, when water retention was out of control). I've been "eating to hunger, and drinking to thirst" as recommended by my midwife, and not keeping track, which feels good.

Goal's for the upcoming week: More running, more kickboxing, and more rest! Maybe a pedicure too.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: none

Momma's Monday Check-in: 13/40

Note: McFatty Mondays is no longer!! Instead, I will be posting Momma's Monday Check-in. Join me as I eat and exercise my way through the next 27 weeks.

Due Date: April 8, 2011

Total weight gain: 4

Morning Sickness: Still hanging around...

Cravings: Fresh squeezed orange juice, maple almond butter

Aversions: Meat, full-fat cheese

Sleep: With all the recent sickness and traveling, Roscoe has made a new routine of calling out for me in the night so we're back to interrupted sleep this week.

I can't live without: TUMS saved me big time, more than twice.

I miss: Quality time and date nights with Andy. We need to schedule something asap.

I am looking forward to: Everything from here on out!!!

Aha Moment: I've mentioned before that I had my thyroid irradiated a couple year ago and so I take medication to replace the hormones normally produced by the thyroid. Pregnancy always presents a challenge to stable TSH levels so I get them checked every 4 weeks. This week I learned that my TSH levels are waaayy off. Three is the upper range of normal, and my TSH is currently an 11. Weakness and fatigue are classic symptoms of hypothyroidism, which is likely contributing to my "morning sickness", and while I really hope we get them under control soon (for the baby's sake) it's nice to know that when that happens I should feel improvement too.

Milestones: I felt the baby for the first time!!

Best moment this week: When I checked off all my workout goals for the week.

Movement: Yep! It's unmistakable. Started out a few days ago as flutters, which progressed to little thumps and wiggles over the weekend. What a feeling!

Gender: The Big Ultrasound is scheduled for November 9th!

Exercise: I'm baaack!!! I ran three miles three times this week, lifted full body weights twice, and went to kickboxing on Tuesday night. Yes!!! It felt so good I literally cried during one of my runs. Here's a motivational article for Momma's who run--I clipped it from Runner's World several years ago and have held onto it since.

Diet: After Wednesday night's flu fiasco my appetite has been teeny tiny. I think I've been much better about compiling real meals, made up of real food covering each of the food groups. This is good!

Goal's for the upcoming week: I need to continue to log miles so I can be ready for that 10k in November.

Belly Shot:

Labor Signs: none