Post Thanksgiving post!

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving Holiday!  I did not intend not to write anything over the past few days, but that is what happens when you have a lame hand (yes, you guessed right- it is no better)! 

We had a very good and laid back Thanksgiving.  It was a beautiful day, the weather was perfect outside.  We started with a kick booty yoga class and then on to making food for the rest of the day.  I am only bummed I didn't take any pictures.  We had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes & gravy, sweet potatoes and rolls.  Yum.  I am sure you are not surprised, we stuffed our faces!  Especially me, gotta feed that Ninja, right?

It is hard to believe that a year ago Thanksgiving Joe and I were in Steamboat Springs enjoying snowboarding, hot tubing, drinking and cooking.  At the same time Molly and I were prepping to release our Still Not Pregnant blog. What a difference a year makes.  There have been set backs.  There have been leaps forward.  And lots of things in between.  I look back on our long journey and my writings in STILL and know how incredibly blessed we are right now.  Never in a million years did I think we would be staying in the city for this holiday and not heading to the mountains because we are so close to having the Ninja.  Yes, call me crazy if you would like, but we didn't want to take any chances if he wanted to make an early appearance.  Being close to my doctor is top priority for this little one and me!

Last Tuesday was a check up with Dr. D'A's office.  I met a new doc (Dr. Jacobson) who was quite nice.  I have to give Rocky Mountain OB-GYN big props for having some of the best girly doctors that I have worked with to date.  Everything was fine.  Ninja's heartbeat was right where it needs to be this far in the game (149), he was moving and shaking his kung foo fighter all around for the doctor.  The good doc said he was quite content in my belly- to which I laughed - and said "don't get too comfortable kid"!  My belly measurements are right on as well, looks like he is still measuring a little ahead of date, but we can't be sure without an ultrasound.  If you can believe it I only gained two pounds since my last check.  I thought for sure with the mass consumption of food as of late that number would have been much higher.  I go back again this Tuesday to see Dr. D'A and this will mark weekly appointments for me and the Ninja. 

In the meantime we are still working on the nursery- sorry no pics yet.  One more piece of furniture and I promise to post!  I am working on getting together a hospital bag or at least a solid list just in case Joe might have to throw one together for me.  We have another class scheduled for next week - Baby Safety.  We also need to get around to watching our Happiest Baby On The Block DVD!

I continue to be amazed how quickly, yet slowly the time is passing.  Nothing new to report with my body besides the same.  I am quite miserable.  However, here is something I thought about a couple weeks ago.  The only thing not hurting me right now is my low back and hips!  These two areas are typically what all pregnant women complain about.  Not this one though-  just everything else!!  You should see me try to get out of bed, now this is funny rolly poley stuff!

Here are some updates:

How far along?  33 weeks and 4 days.  Holy s*** - this means about only 45 days to go!?! 

Baby's Size:  Durian Fruit (see pic).  He is approximately 17-19 inches long and weighs 4-6 pounds. 

Total Weight Gain: 37 pounds

Maternity Clothes:  I purchased my first maternity shirt from Target on Wednesday.  I don't like it or need it really, I just wanted to try one.  I also tried on a pair of COH maternity jeans just to see, I also did not like them or the price tag - $225?  No thanks.  I can still wear my size up pricey jeans just fine that have a waist and button. 

Sleep:  No improvement there, only about 3 hours on and off throughout the night.

Best moment this past week:  Having some much needed time off with my husband. 

Miss anything?  Being able to easily bend over.  My belluh is really getting in the way these days.

Craving anything?  My hand to not hurt.  Is that considered a craving?  I will go with yes.  PS- I am still eating all the time so no specific food cravings, just all. 

Belly button in or out?  Almost an outtie!

Happy or Moody most of the time?  Mood swings have been pretty crappy this last week.  My husband has been the target of most of them.  Poor guy.

Updates and feedback

Thought I would drop some updates since it has been a few days. 

The Ninja has been very busy remodeling and practicing his combos in my belly.  I think someone snuck him some nunchucks at the shower or in the middle of the night.  I am not going to lie though, I like it even when it is incredibly painful.  Puts my mind at ease everything is going just fine in there.  Oh and bonus for me, he still hasn't found my ribs! 

I am also convinced he is going through a growth spurt.  I am eating just about everything in sight now.  OK, not everything, I still have my don't likes.  But I eat a lot.  Surely it is driven by him growing?  Here is an example if you don't believe me.  Friday night Joe and I went to eat at Asian Cajun (crab joint across the tracks in Denver, it's delish if you have not tried it out yet).  I ate a dinner salad, all my crab and some of Joe's.  When he was paying I noticed there was a hole in the wall Taco joint across the street that looked really good, it is called Tacos Rapidos.  I mean with a name like that and a 24 hour drive through, how can you NOT try it out?  That we did.  2 deep fried beef tacos with all the stuff on them.  This could have gone terribly wrong or deliciously well.  I am happy to report it went well and I ate my face off AGAIN!  I mean really.  Who does this??  All I know is it is going to get real interesting at my doctor appointment this Tuesday when I weigh in!  ha!

It will be a week tomorrow since I got the steroid shot in my hand.  I am sad to say it made it way worse for 4 days.  On day 5 there was a glimmer of hope as it started to feel better overall and I would say I had about 50% feeling back.  Day 6 was another let down as it started to go back to the way it has been feeling the whole time.  Needless to say, I will not be back to get another shot.  I have come to terms with just having to ride this one out.

This one is for those of you that either need to invest in some oils or may be in the future- so here you go!  I will be using them all regardless of my feedback below.
Natural Stretch Oil- Earth Mama/Angel Baby-  By far the best.  Thicker, absorbs into the skin quicker.  Smells great!
Burt's Bee's- Mama Bee Oil-  2nd place.  More like slippery oil, so putting it on right after a shower and waiting a bit is most effective.  It does smell a lot like lemon scented Pledge.  The smell is strong but it does not go on that strong.  I have grown to like it. 
Mother's Special Blend-  3rd place and only because it smells funky.  Now, it does not smell as awful as that nasty Palmer's crap, but it is pretty bad.  I would say the closest comparison I can come up with is a moving box.  Otherwise is have more of an oil consistency and goes on smooth.  It is much better if mixed with a lotion. 

We are SO close to having the nursery done, just waiting on a couple more pieces to be delivered.  I have to say, it is looking great!

More tomorrow or Tuesday my hand is revolting.   

PS- The Ninja enjoyed yet another fantastic Broncos game today. 
He also had his first ever Thunder Dog.  Ya.  I ate the whole thing.  OMG. 

Shower pictures!

Here a few of the pictures that were taken at my shower.  I do not have pictures of everyone that was there, but I sure do appreciate all there were and of course, Team Ninja (Tarra, Jori, Annie, Linda Lou and Sasha)! 



Ninja Shower

Sorry for the delay in posting, but I got the steroid shot in my hand yesterday and holy moley did it hurt- blood and all!  Post shot kept me from typing anything more than a couple sentences every 30 minutes.  So far I do not feel any improvement (it is actually worse) but the good doc says it can sometimes take up to a week to feel any diference.  It is also possible it will not provide any relief at all.  The only "cure" to this pregnancy induced carpal tunnel is having the baby!  No biggie though, I rolled the dice on this shot and soon will see what the outcome is!  I'll keep you posted. 

 

Onto the fun stuff!  Sunday afternoon was my baby shower thrown by none other than "Team Ninja".  This team consisted of a 'pit crew' of 5 incredible ladies.  Yes, 5.  Yes, the Ninja has a 'pit crew'.  Yes, he is so spoiled already!  My biggest regret of the time is I didn't get a pic of "Team Ninja"-  surely this calls for a alcohol induced celebration after Ninja is here for a pic!  Yes, please!

 

Needless to say it was nothing short of amazing.  I am so grateful for generosity they put into this super fun day.  I am so grateful for those who were able to make it to the shower.  I am super grateful my Mother in law and sister in law from Minnesota made a special trip out just to be here.  I am truly blessed and so is Baby Ninja.  I wish I could put into more words how thankful I am, but alas, I will say it was f-ing awesome and infinity thank yous!!  I did miss my family and friends who weren't able to make it from Nashville, KC, HTown, NYC, Florida and Minnesota.  However, I know I will be seeing you all once the Ninja gets here.  Happy dance all around!

I was going to have my photographer Jeffrey Grounds Photography (he is great) come to the shower, but I ended up not doing it.  Bummed on my part for not doing so, I would highly recommend it to those of you that are planning.  I am waiting on a few pictures that my mother in law was kind enough to take.  Once I get those from her I will post!  For now, here are a few the girls snapped of the cutest flower arrangements I have ever seen.  Like I said, these ladies did such a kick ass job with the shower. 

Thank you so much.  My cup runneth over. 

Erin from Plum Sage  

 

Oils, dates and shots OH MY!

A couple weeks ago I got the funniest text from one of my friends who was catching up on the blog. 

It said, "Hey!  Just took a glance at your blog....  couldn't read all of it, but get that shitty cream off your belly!  Use oil instead (have you read the ingredients in that stuff)??  Let's talk tomorrow.  ASAP.  I got your covered!  So important to keep the glamorous stretch marks off your body.....  I don't have a single one!"

I, of course, laughed hysterically (and maybe you just have to know my friend) but it was good stuff.  I am telling you, I have such a bad ass friend group.  Super blessed!

 

She was so sweet to give me a variety pack of oils.  They are totally awesome, contain no toxins and don't smell like chocolate!  Hello luxurious oils, goodbye shitty chocolate lotion! 

Today was my 30 week check up!  Only 9 weeks to go until the Ninja makes his way into the crazy world.  Our C-section is scheduled for January 10th unless the little guys decides he would like to make his grand appearance sooner.  I was assured by my doctor if he does she will do everything to stop the labor- she wants him cooked!   

 

Everything is measuring great despite my little belly (though I do feel like a whale).  The nurse practitioner was listening to his heartbeat and said, "wow, he sure is happy in there".  I honesty couldn't agree more.  He is going Bob the Builder style in there remodeling so he has more room to practice  his dope Ninja skills.  He keeps trying to go for my ribs but this Momma isn't having any of  that noise.  Tonight while teaching class though, he got real close.  I gently pressed his foot down. 

 

Today at my appointment they gave me a flu shot.  I have never had one before, but after talking to the nurse practitioner I know it is what is best for the Ninja.  I can get the Whooping Cough shot now or wait until delivery.  She encouraged to wait until the day of delivery for the Whooping Cough, so that is what I will do.  I am only having a couple side effects from the flu shot, some mild chills & just a hazy feeling, so that is good.

Monday I go in for the steroid shot for my lame hand.  Fingers crossed this will bring me at least a little relief.  The pain has become so bad at night I want to cry and I am not kidding. 

Here are some fun questions I found on a forum the other day (in case you are curious)! 

How far along?  30.5 weeks

Baby's Size:  Cucumber. He is around 15-17 inches long and weighs 2.5-4lbs.  He can now grasp things with his hands (Lord help my belly and ribs), he can hear outside the womb (we will start playing him specific music in the morning and night- he already gets to hear a ton of it while I am at work).

Total Weight Gain:  35lbs.  As stated above, whale-like feeling, I am only 5 ft. tall!

Maternity Clothes:  No, but I don't know how much longer this will be a no. 

Sleep:  MAYBE 3 hours total a night.  :/

Best moment this past week:  My wonderful, supportive husband and hearing the Ninja's heartbeat. 

Miss anything?  My friends and family in other states.  Oh, and WINE! 

Anything making you queasy or sick?  No, I am just really really tired from the lack of sleep.  It is definitely catching up with me. 

Craving anything?  No, I just like to eat everything (besides chocolate).  I eat all the time.  I'm eating right now.  It's redonk.

Belly button in or out?  1/2 way in, 1/2 way out- OMG

Wedding rings on or off?  Off - been that way for awhile- boo.

Happy or Moody most of the time?  WATCH OUT, this Momma is ready to pounce (Eye - and actions- of the Tiger)?!?! 

Letter of love to the Ninja

I am telling you this kid is so loved!  Today the Ninja got his first email from Auntie J.  It was too cute not to blog it! 

I will speak for him in saying: "Thank you Auntie J for getting this mean shot, I shall shower you with love kicks and kisses upon my arrival.  You are pretty much my favorite.  Love , Ninja"

From: J
Sent: Monday, November 05, 2012 3:18 PM
To: H
Subject: Dear Ninja...

 

My left arm is currently lame right now.  The whooping cough shot got me right in the muscle – down dog is going to kick my tushy tonight. 

 

I would like you to know how tough your Mama is.  She gets poked and pinched all the time and never ever complains.  I am very impressed with her and how flippen tough she is. 

 

So excited to meet you.  Stay safe in there!!!

 

-Auntie J

Eye of the Tiger

Cue Rocky music...  I know you all know it! 

So far the third trimester has proven to be incredibly challenging on my body and mind.  I hurt. My fuse is very short.  However, I am still really grateful, so don't get me wrong.  These are just my rants and opinions of one loco pregnant lady that is all.  So, when I say things it is by no means coming from a place of bad intention.  Just whats bouncing around in my head. 

I have decided to go through with getting the steroid shot in my hand (it has taken me about 4 days to compose this post).  The numbness is crippling through my hand and fingers.  It has now has found its way all the way up to my shoulder.  I couldn't even do downward facing dog last week and trust me, this girl needs her yoga at least!  I have tried to battle it out and now I am waving the white flag to "pregnancy induced carpal tunnel syndrome". 

Hello Braxton Hicks contractions!  I have mentioned these in previous posts hoping that was not what was going on, but today there is no doubt that is exactly what is happening.  Ladies, any advice on these?  What I have learned in my body is they are tricky little contractions.  Sometimes really intense and painful other times just a tensing/hardening feeling through the belly.

I could go on and on about the other things my body is experiencing, but I will stop and leave you with this last one because quite frankly (though miserable) it is funny.  Last night alone I had to get up and go pee 11 times between 11pm & 6am (and I am not being dramatic with the number 11, it was 11).  WTF?!  I am convinced while the Ninja is asleep he uses my bladder as a body pillow and while he is awake he uses it as a trampoline.  I told one of my friends this today and her response was "next time just sleep on the toilet yo".  ha ha ha ha  Have I mentioned how much I love my friends?  They keep me laughing, that is for sure. 

I will write more later, for now I am keeping my eyes in the prize- NINJA and playing Eye of the Tiger as my daily theme song......   hahaha