Merry Christmas!

Jose and I hope that all of our friends and family had a Christmas that was filled with love and happiness! 

It was wonderful to spend the holiday with each other this year.  As most of you already know, Jose spent the holidays with his family in Mexico last year. 

On Christmas Eve, I went to my parent's house for dinner, gift exchange, games, and yummy snacks.  Dad grilled steaks, made baked potatos, and corn.  I got a lot of really neat stuff for Christmas- thanks Mom, Dad, Brian, Sara, and Kelly.  Brian and Sara got a new game, Guesstures.  We had a lot of fun playing the charades-like game. 

Jose spent Christmas Eve with his cousins and friends.  That evening, we exchanged gifts with each other.  Jose bought me a beautiful necklace and purse.  I gave him the XBOX 360 he begged for.  It took him three years of asking to get it!  I also gave him a shirt that he really liked.

On Christmas Day, we went to my parent's house to celebrate with my mom's family.  We enjoyed some DELICIOUS food!  We all gathered in the living room to exchange gifts (Jackson even got a present!).  And what would a Gray Family Christmas be without games?  We played a few entertaining rounds of Hot Potato and Guesstures. It is always wonderful to spend time with the people you love the most!

We can't wait to celebrate Jackson's first Christmas next year!  I am sure he will be a spoiled little boy! 

Another Sarah, Another Baby

Congratulations to Sarah and Matt on the birth of their baby girl Sophia! 

Prayer Request

Take a few minutes to say a prayer for my friend Sarah's newborn baby.  Luke Joseph was born very early Friday morning.  Friday evening, I found out that Luke has two holes in his heart and a narrow aorta.  He will have surgery at 8am Monday morning.  Sarah is optimistic about the surgery but is requesting prayers.

Heavenly Father, watch with us over your child Luke, and grant that he may be restored to that perfect health which it is yours alone to give; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

I know that the Lord will be watching over him to protect him,  I pray that the Lord is also with Sarah and Ty to give them strength and peace during this trying time.  I love you guys and I can't wait to meet Luke!  :)

Way to Go, Kelly!

My amazing and smart sister, Kelly, graduated from the University of Louisville on Thursday night!

I am extremely proud of her!  She worked very hard to get her degree in Business Management.  I know it wasn't always easy for her to work and go to school, but she never gave up! 

Kelly,
I am SO proud of you!  I had tears in my eyes as you processed in the arena with your classmates.  Know that I was cheering for you as you crossed that stage!  I knew you could do it!  I love you Mimi and wish you nothing but the best!
Love,
Amy

33 Week Check Up and Baby Care Class

Family and friends, Jackson is doing well!  Thursday morning, we went to our 33 week check-up.  His heartbeat was in the 140's and sounded great.  Dr. Miller said all of my lab work from the last visit came back normal.

I was concerned about my weight gain (8 and 6 pound gains the last two visits) and she said I had only gained about 20 pounds which was really good.  She said to expect to gain a pound a week until delivery as Jackson gains 1/2 pound per week.  I'm expecting to gain more since next week is Christmas.  :)

I am carrying low, but she said that could change in the next few weeks as he grows bigger and bigger.  She also said that I will be feeling him move A LOT more in the next 3-4 weeks.  I know he has been moving a lot every day.  Part of why I am up writing at 3:30 A.M. is because he is awake and abusing my insides!  As much as it can bother me in the middle of the night, I smile knowing he is in there being active.

We go back to the doctor in two weeks for our 35 week exam.  I will keep you posted!

Jose and I went to a free Basic Baby Care Class at the hospital on Tuesday night.  The auditorium was full of pregnant women, eager to learn the basics of caring for their newborn children.  I felt like I was back at EKU again, except my belly wouldn't allow me to use the desk of my own chair.  I was taking notes on everything from what happens right after delivery to giving our baby a bath.  We learned about what to expect after delivery, safety, breastfeeding, changing diapers, proper clothing, giving a bath, caring for the umbilical cord, sleep, and when to call the doctor.

They sent us home with a packet full of papers and stress!  There was so much to learn in so little time.  The nurse that presented told us not to worry... the hospital has a staff that is very supportive and ready to help every new family the best they can.  I thought Jose was out in la-la land during the presentation so I quized him when we got home.  I handed him my stuffed animal dog and he was able to swaddle and burp just like the nurse showed us.  He remembered all the important stuff!  Way to go, papi!

I know that they can only tell us so much to prepare us.  The real test will be when Jackson gets here.  I know that Jose and I will try our best to take care of Jackson.  I am really lucky to have my mom close by to answer questions and give a lending hand.  I already know I'll be calling on her for many things when he does get here.

We are scheduled to go to a few more classes in January.  We look forward to the breastfeeding class and labor & delivery.  I signed my parents up to go to the Joys of Grandparenting class as well.

 

Oops!

What was I thinking when I clicked "publish post" without mentioning today is Jose's birthday?

Feliz Cumpleanos, Papi!!!  We love you very much!

Love,
Amy and Jackson

Stretch Armstrong!

OK, everyone said, "Use cocoa butter everyday and you won't get stretch marks."  You lied!  You all lied! 

Ha- I know it's a normal pregnancy thing, but it was seriously a shock when I looked in the mirror after my morning shower a week or so ago and saw a few red bumps on my stomach.  I couldn't really see what it was, but it itched.  Later that day, I showed Jose and asked him what he thought it was.  He gave me the bad news... "I think it's stretch marks." 

Well, his thinking was right.  As the days have gone by, they have expanded and darkend.  It's weird that they are darker and larger on the left side than the right.  Then again, I feel him pushing, kicking and rolling around more on the left.  I continue to lather on the cocoa butter two to three times a day in hopes that they won't get out of control.

Giving Thanks

As the extended Thanksgiving weekend winds down, I am sitting here putting off writing lesson plans for the week. 

I thought I would share the things I am thankful for. 

1.  I am most thankful for my family for all of the love and support they have always given me.  Without them, I don't know who I would be.
2.  I am thankful for the love I share with Jose.  He is an amazing person and will be a wonderful father.
3.  I am thankful that I have a precious, healthy baby boy growing inside of me.
4.  I am thankful for my job.  I know so many are struggling with employment and feel blessed to have a job that I love going to every day. 
5.  I am thankful for all of my friends-near and far, old and new. 
6.  I am thankful for you, dear reader!

Jose and I on Thanksgiving before I went to my brother's house and he went to his friend's house.

What are YOU thankful for?

The Baby Shower

First, I want to say thank you so much to my wonderful shower hosts!  Kelly, Sara, and Megan- You did a wonderful job of making this day perfect for me and Jackson. The food, cake, decorations, games, and hospitality made the day enjoyable for me and the guests.  I know you spent so much time, heart, and money to make the shower the best.  I love you very much for everything!!! 

Sara, Kelly, Me, Megan

Second, I want to thank the gracious family and friends that joined us Sunday and truly "showered" us with gifts.  Your generosity will definitely help Jose and I be more prepared for bringing our baby boy into the world.  It would be a long list if I tried to mention everything I opened.  Let's just say that Jackson now has a car seat, motion soother, bouncer, sling, swing, bath tub, lots of adorable clothes, shoes, books, bedding, bath time goodies, and other necessities to get him started. 

For now, all of the gifts are piled (neatly of course) into the dining room of my tiny one bedroom apartment.  I really can't wait to move into a 2 bedroom apartment with Jose so we can start building Jackson's nursery.  I know it will be too cute!  I look forward to putting all of this good stuff to use when Jackson gets here. 

I have put together a slideshow of some of the pictures taken at the shower.  If you want to read captions, you will have to scroll over each picture.  Don't pay attention to my facial expressions- I didn't pose for any of these pictures!

I have the best friends and family anyone can ask for!  THANK YOU ALL FOR EVERYTHING!!!!

29 week check-up

I went to the doctor yesterday for my 29 week check-up and glucose test. I was confident going into the appointment but a bit nervous about drinking the glucose juice! So many people told me that it was disgusting and difficult to get down.

I was quite surprised... when I took the first sip, it really tasted like super sweet orange soda. I actually thought it was tasty. I had 5 minutes to drink it but I think I downed it in less than one. I had to wait an hour for them to draw blood. In the meantime, I had my appointment with the doctor.

Dr. Dutton said Jackson and I were doing really well. When she listened to his heart, she smiled and said, "It sounds perfect." Perfect is just what Jose and I wanted to hear!!! I asked the doctor about which way Jackson was laying because I feel him all over the place. She really dug into my belly, feeling for his head and rump. She said he was laying horizontally, but he is still small enough to shift around. Based on my belly measurements, Jackson seems to be growing just right. :)

I was concerned about my weight gain. I gained 8 pounds since my last appointment!!! She said that is more than average for one month, but my overall weight gain is in the normal range. I need to be a little more aware of how much I am eating - thank goodness the Halloween candy is gone! I also ate out a lot in the last month, so I need to get back to cooking for myself.

She and I talked for a good five minutes about getting the H1N1 vaccine. I have been going back and forth about it for months now. The office had about 20 shots left and she strongly encouraged me to get it. She wanted Jose and I to talk it over and decide before we left. We went back to the waiting room to wait for my bloodwork and talked it over. We finally decided it was better to go ahead and get than risk getting H1N1 and getting sick.

So, when I went to finish the glucose test, they vaccinated me. I'm actually relieved to have gotten it. I get so scared when I think about all of the little ones in my class that have been sick and the one that was hospitalized. Just pray that there are no adverse effects for the baby. More than anything, I want him to be safe and healthy.

Ya know, those lab techs need to practice their vein finding/blood drawing skills! She bruised me up pretty good in my left and right arms trying to get my blood. I won't know the results of the glucose test for a few days. She said they would call if there were problems. Let's hope I don't hear from them!

OK... I'm off to watch a Christmas movie. It's not even Thanksgiving, but nothing gets me in the mood like a corny holiday flick!

Baby Shower Invitations

My sister, sister-in-law, and best friend have been working hard to plan my baby shower for next weekend. I am extremely excited about it! I hope that all of my family and friends are able to attend. I can't wait to see everybody (especially my friends from EKU that I haven't seen in a while!).

I absolutely adore the shower invitations. Kelly, Sara, and Megan did such a good job on them and I wanted to share them with the world.

This is my favorite part... It says,

"Diapers, bibs, bottles and more!

That's what typical showers are for.

But this one has a bit of a twist.

We are building a library; please assist!

Instead of a card, please bring a book,

Anything from fairy tales to "How to Cook."

These are for Baby Jackson to use,

Whether for enjoyment or helpful clues.

On the inside, please do inscribe,

Any message you would like to provide."

Aren't they adorable? Thank you to my favorite people for doing this for me. Jackson and I love you all very much!

I hope to see everyone next Sunday!

8th month, already?!

I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going. My weekly email update let me know that I finished my 7th month and am now in my 8th month. Jackson will be here in less than 3 months. How wonderful is that?

I have left you with a picture of the bump. Just ignore the terrible hairdo. It's a lazy Sunday!

I'm off to fill out report cards and plan lessons for the week. :)

Belly Button Business

OK, so my belly button is weirding me out. About a week ago I noticed it looked and felt a little funny. Obviously, my belly is stretching but I didn't think that I would feel the tugging so much around the navel.

I went to the experts, other moms, and asked if it was normal. According to each person I asked, thier belly button was funky during pregnancy too. Some even said their "innies" became "outies." I looked it up on the internet, of course, and every site said the changes in your belly button during pregnancy were normal. Many women tape their belly buttons to make them flat. I don't think I will go that far!

Oh well, I'm going to have the doctor check it out at my next appointment to make sure it isn't a hernia or anything (which I'm sure it's not). It's better to be safe than sorry.

I'm off to lather my belly in cocoa butter lotion!

Touching base

I have been a slacker with the updates lately. That's mostly due to lack of news, a hectic schedule, and laziness during my free time! I just wanted to touch base with our wonderful family and friends that follow the blog. Jackson, Jose, and I are doing well.

If movement is any indicator, this precious little boy is going to be quite an athlete. Jose and I joke about what activities he will be involved in. Jose says no to "gaysball." I told him that in my family, he will definitely give baseball a try. My aunt has already bought him a glove. :) Jose says he will play soccer. I think he is already practicing his kicks. Anyways, can't he play both? I doubt he will be a basketball star, as both of Jackson's parents are 5'5". Football seems a little too scary for mommy! And if Jackson wants nothing to do with organized sports, then that will be alright, too.

Until next time... we love you, dear readers!

99 days

99 days of pregnancy to go,

99 days to grow.

Go to sleep, wake up again,
98 days of pregnancy to go!

The countdown is really on! Jackson is growing so much these days. I mean, I can't see him, but he sure is making mommy's belly grow!

I wish I had been taking pictures of my belly all along, but I just now feel like I have a "baby bump." It seems like I woke up one day last week and BAM! there it was.

Jose took this picture of me on Friday when I was officially 25 weeks. bump!

We will try to take a picture every Friday to share the growth of the baby

Crazy Dream

Many have told me to be prepared for odd and vivid dreams during pregnancy. Well, I sure am having them! I thought I would share one from Wednesday night with you.

I dreamed that a teacher from school offered Michelle, Sarah, and I flight tickets to Orlando, FL for $12. We wanted to go but I was pregnant. Well, Jose agreed that I would need one last vacation before Jackson came along so I went. Here's the catch- I left my belly (baby and all) with Jose. My WES girls and I went to Disney World (those tickets were only $28).

While there, I got a phone call from Jose who told me, "Jackson is here!" We flew home and I went straight to the hospital. I walked in the room and there was Jose in the bed, recovering from child birth. I walked over to where Jackson was and started crying because he was so beautiful. The funny part- he had Jose's haircut. As soon as I started to talk to Jackson, he opened his eyes. reached out, and said "mama!"

My parents came to the hospital and told me that they helped Jose through labor and delivery. Jose was so glad they were there and showed him how to feed, clothe, and diaper the baby.

I woke up laughing. How funny would it be if you could just hand your pregnancy off to someone else so you could go on vacation? Or maybe for a good night of sleep? And, what if the father could choose to give birth instead of the mother? Sounds like a good trade off; 40 weeks of carrying the baby for mom and a day of labor and delivery for dad.

Today's Doctor Vsiit

I love going to the doctor! OK, maybe it's not love, but I really enjoy going to my OB check-ups. Today's appointment went really well. My vitals were good, my weight was on target (I've gained 9 pounds since July), and Jackson's heart sounds great!

Hearing his heartbeat makes me smile! I wish I could record that beautiful sound, but I am too nervous to ask. I know that some women rent gadgets that allow them to listen to the heartbeat anytime. I know that I would never put it away if I had one at arm's reach.

Dr. Johnson and I talked about the H1N1 shot. Because I am around germy, young kids every day she thinks I should absolutely get one. I expressed my concerns and she listened. She, along with the other doctors in the practice, are confident that the shot is safe. She told me that they would have the shots within the next 2-3 weeks, so I have that much time to make my decision. In the meantime, she said if I had flu-like symptoms or multiple kids in my class diagnosed with the flu I needed to call. They could give me some medication for early intervention.

Well, the next appointment is scheduled for mid-November. I can't wait to hear his precious heartbeat again! Here is to continued good health for baby and me!

Me first!

Jackson's movements have been inconsistent. I assume that it is normal at this point in the pregnancy. Some days I feel him moving more than others. He is typically most active when I am crawling into bed but he has been moving a lot more when I am sitting on the couch with my feet propped. Just two days ago, I was sitting here on the couch with my laptop on my lap, looking down at the keyboard when I could feel and see him move. It was the neatest thing. I just sat and waited for him to do it again. He seemed to settle back down until I started typing again. He must love the tapping of the keys.

Today, I visited my parents and sister. Mom and Kelly are fighting over who gets to feel him kick first. They crack me up, really. I wish I could take a video of their bargaining. They fight over who gets to put their hand where. They talk to him, sing, play music, and even give him a little threat. He never responded to them. I tried laying different ways and giving a little poke here and there, but he just didn't want to play.

Jackson is already one loved little boy. He definitely won't be deprived of attention when my family is around. I really can't wait for them to be able to feel him move. For now, I will continue to enjoy the special mommy and Jackson moments only we can share.

Mommy loves you, baby boy!

Oh why?!

Why is it that I can go hours during the daytime without a bathroom break but I can't go one hour in the late evening without several trips? I swear I am using a roll of toilet paper a day. Geez... lay off the bladder for a while!

Generation Next!

I am glad to be a part of Generation Next! With easy access to the internet, I am able to read a lot about my pregnancy and Jackson's development.

One of my favorite websites is http://www.justmommies.com/pregnancy_calendar.php. I can put my due date (2-5-2010) in the boxes and a day-by-day calendar pops up. The calendar says how many weeks and days Jackson has been growing and gives a tip, fact, or measurement. I like to check it out every couple of days to keep tabs on what's going on in my belly. According to the calendar, Jackson's crown to rump length is 20 cm or 7.9 inches and he weighs about 15 ounces -1.1 pounds. He is also starting to make antibodies.

I also like getting my weekly emails from other websites that tell me all about how the baby should be growing and some milestones to expect.

I must say that I mostly enjoy reading the message boards on several mommy websites. There are a variety of topics to choose from so I often spend hours a week reading what other parents have to say about baby care, health, parenting, and more.

I remember life before the internet, the dawn of home access, to the now widespread availability of the world wide web. Technology has boomed in the last 10-15 years. I can only imagine what the future holds for Mr. Jackson Lee!

Registering

Who knew that registering for baby items would be so stressful and overwhelming? Mom, Kelly, and I spent all day Sunday picking out the things Jackson would need when he arrives.

I spent some doing a little research before taking on the task, but it didn't seem to aid much in the decision making process. With every trip I made to Target in the past few months, I browsed the baby section to get an idea of what we might need and what we like. I have also spent coutnless hours browing websites and other people's registries, trying to make early decisions.

We went staright for the baby aisles at Target. I had already chosen the brightly colored jungle animal bouncer and take along swing, so they were the first things I aimed the registry gun at. I just think they are adorable. I picked out a matching stroller, highchair, and Pack N Play. I chose a stroller that came with a carrier/carseat. I need to find a base for the carseat. It didn't seem to come with one. I know that Jackson won't be in a carrier forever, so I wanted to register for a seat he would be in for years. Jose and I had looked at the convertible carseats a few weeks ago. We picked out a few that we liked and I researched them. I was glad to register for a Titan Elite!

Bedding was the major thing on my mind. We wanted to stay away from the traditional nursery blues and greens and have a lot of color since we can't paint the walls. I thought I had the bedding and everything picked out. When we get to Target, they don't have it in stores so I needed to chose something that was accessible to more shoppers. Target had a really adorable jungle animal print that was cute and colorful. They had a few matching accessories, but not much. I went ahead and registered for it knowing that if I found something better elsewhere, I could change it.

Check out the bedding at Target.com.

We spent hours at Target. We probably spent half an hour trying to decide on bottles alone. There are so many things to consider- size, shape, volume, etc. I chose the Avent brand. They were a bit pricey, but the name felt safe. We also picked out some onesies, a bathtub, grooming kit, sleep accessories, pacifiers, an adorable playplace, and a few other odds 'n ends.

Finally, we called it quits at Target! Mom was dying to show me some wall art that she spotted on a previous trip to Target. They were adorable canvas paintings of jungle animals. We put them in the cart to buy right away.

When I turned in the registry gun, the woman printed my registry and told me it would be online in 3-4 hours.

We headed to lunch at Red Robin. After devouring a yummy chicken sandwich and fries, we went to Babies R Us. Honestly, I wasn't too impressed. We spent about an hour there looking at their strollers, swings, and other big items to see if there was something there I liked better. I decided to stick with what I picked out at Target. I did pick out one major item, a swing. I registered for some blankets, a changing pad, a boppy, a baby monitor, nursery accessories, and some things for the car.

When I got home, I was disappointed that neither of my registeries were available. I wanted to show Jose everything I picked out! It took Babies R Us three days to get it online and it took Target four days. So much for a few hours. I was excited to find more nursery items to match the bedding from Target. The hamper, lightswitch plate, curtains, diaper stacker, and some of the sheets are only available online.

In the end, it was a long day but a good experience. Who knew Jackson would need so much! Thank goodness for my mom and sister! They offered suggestions and helped me make decisions that were difficult. Also, I appreciate that they have bought the beautiful baby bed and dresser for Jackson's nursery. I love you and Jackson appreciates it!

Oh Baby!

Can you imagine giving birth to a 19.2 pound baby? A woman in Indonesia did it. He is seen in this picture next to a baby born at a normal weight and length.

Read more about this unusual story here!

Good News!

At 7:30, I took my temperature and had a mild fever. With that, the coughs, sore throat, and headache, I decided to head down the street to the doctor (so glad they have after hours care). Dr. F was concerned that it might be flu or strep, especially since I have had kids in my class with both this week. They took a few swabs and 20 minutes later he came back with good news - NO FLU! The strep test was also negative but doesn't always mean I don't have it. They took another swab to culture. Hopefully that will come back negative, too!

Looks like Jackson and I are still well. It's just a viral infection. Thank God.

Germs, Germs, Go Away!

The darling children at school have spread their sick germs to me! I woke up Wednesday knowing that a sore throat was approaching. I went on with my day, feeling a little worse as the day went on. I developed a slight sore throat, a weak cough, and a headache. I taught all day, went to a meeting, and to my night class anyway.

Being pregnant, I know I can't take just any over the counter medicine. After consulting my mom I decided to take a Tylenol and go to bed. I woke up early Thursday morning, showered, and trekked to school in the rain. I was preparing for my day and I wasn't feeling too hot. I was sweaty, had a headache, and had to take a few trips to the bathroom. I went to make a few copies and stopped by the office. The secretary said, "Amy, you're going home. You have to take care of two people. You don't need to be here." So... she took it upon herself to put in for a sub and said, "Go home and go to bed."

Anybody that knows me, knows that I am dedicated to my job. Missing a day of teaching is something I try to avoid. I am glad that she made me leave though. I came home and laid on the couch for an hour until I fell asleep. That 3 hour nap made me feel better. I haven't had a fever, the bathroom trips have gone back to normal, and my throat is feeling better. Now it's just a headache and a cough. Let's hope that this is just a bug and nothing more. We all know my body doesn't react well to strep throat. I've had my seasonal flu shot. AND LORD, please don't let it be that H1N1 stuff.

Here's to good health for me, Jackson, and all those kids at school! Nap time...

Kick It!

Well, Jackson, you had to go and prove me wrong. I hope this isn't a sign of things to come!

Just yesterday, I told Jose that he wouldn't feel Jackson move for a few weeks since I am just now feeling some movements at night and early in the morning while laying in bed. Well, I was ready for bed and Jose came to lay down with me for a bit. We were talking and I told him that I had just felt some movement. He put his hand on my stomach where I felt him and as soon as he did, Jackson gave the swiftest kick (or punch) yet! Jose was amazed and I was surprised. I was pleased to be able to share that moment with Jose. I guess it was Jackson's way of bonding with his papi.


Jose: Estoy muy contento y muy agradecido con dios por darnos la oportunida de ser papas a amy y a mi. Me gusta cuando Jack pateo mi mano a noche. Para mi fue lo mas lindo y maravilloso que a pasado en mi vida. No puedo esperar a que estes con nosotros. Te amo mucho.

20 weeks of catching up!

Jose and I are expecting a little bundle of joy!

On June 6, 2009 I took a home pregnancy test. I freaked out when I saw the +. Immediately, I scheduled an appointment with my primary care physician to confirm the pregnancy. After waiting 45 minutes for the lab results on the blood work, the doctor came in and said, "Congratulations."

It took a few weeks for me to fully accept and embrace the gift that God has blessed us with. Jose and I are thankful that our families and friends are supporting us as we take this journey.

Let me catch you up on the pregnancy!

First Trimester

The first trimester went smooth. I was lucky that I did not have morning sickness! I spent many hours sleeping on the couch and snacking to keep from being nauseous. We had two OB appointments during the first three months.

Aunt LuAnn and Jose supported me as I went to my first appointment on July 22, 2009. We were all nervous and excited. As the doctor pulled out the doppler, our bodies were filled with anticipation! I was nervous because it took her several minutes to find it. When she did, my grin grew six inches. It was the most amazing sound in the world. It hit me then- there really is a baby growing inside me! Baby has a heartbeat of 159 bpm.

The doctor ordered me to have an ultrasound so we could set a due date, so LuAnn and Jose left me to re-dress. The ultrasound technician called us in. I didn't know what to expect. When she turned on the machine and started hunting for baby, my nerves really kicked in. She spotted the baby quickly! I couldn't believe how much baby was already moving around. Baby seemed to be waving, kicking, flipping, and having a good time. The tech took several measurements and said I was approximately 6 weeks along. She set my due date at February 5, 2009.

Hearing the heartbeat made it real, but seeing this little baby inside me made it ten times more. July 22nd was the day that it set in. I am going to be a mommy and Jose is going to be a daddy!


Second Trimester


The second trimester has been wonderful. The baby bump is growing every day. Sleeping can be tough sometimes. I get charley horses in my right calf a couple nights a week, but calcium supplements have reduced that symptom. I have a lot of energy and excitement.


I had my second ultrasound on September 10, 2009. This was the BIG DAY! Is it a boy or is it a girl? Going into it, most people thought it was a boy. I decided to say it was a girl just to be different. I would be happy with either.


Mom, Kelly (my wonderful sister), and Jose joined me on this exciting day. This was the day we would find out if we were having a baby Maya or baby Jackson. The ultrasound technician called us into the small room and told us a little bit about what all they would look at during the anatomy screening (organs, measuring bones, and of course-if it was a boy or girl). The tech found the baby pretty soon and immediately said, "Let's see if we can find out what you are having." With a voice of excitement, she declared, "It's a boy. It's definitely a boy." Seeing Jose's face was the best part. I don't think I've ever seen him smile so big. Mom was clapping with joy and Kelly was showing excitement. WOW! We were all amazed at how much he has grown.


It was difficult to measure Jackson because he likes to sleep on his belly, just like mommy. The best way to view him was with me laying on my left side, which meant I missed seeing most of the ultrasound. I made sure to turn my head when Mom said, "Look, he's sucking his thumb." How precious that was. The ultrasound tech printed several pictures and a CD for us to take home.

I couldn't wait to share the news with the world. While waiting to see the doctor, I texted as many people as possible to tell them the awesome news! When the doctor came in she began going of the results from the ultrasound. She told us that she was pleased with what she saw. He is growing just like he should be. I was worried about my weight since they have put out all of these new studies, but she said I was gaining as I should be. Of course we talked about all the other important things like swine flu, my leg cramps, and me not feeling the baby move. She encouraged me to get the seasonal flu shot (which I did that day), told me to take calcium and iron supplements, and to keep eating healthy. As for me not feeling the baby move, she said it's normal. She said that he weighed about 9 oz and by the time he was closer to one pound I would definitely feel him.

I have been patiently waiting to feel him. I sometimes feel that "flutter," but gas usually follows- so who knows if that was him. On Friday night, I know I felt him. Saturday morning, it happened again. I bet he was excited for that big UofL football game! I don't feel the movements consistently, but when I am lying still I will get a surprise bubble. Now that I have felt him, Jose wants to feel him.


We really can't wait to meet Jackson Lee! For now, all we have are the occasional flutters and a few ultrasound pictures to share. Enjoy!

Sucking his thumb

Getting ready to sleep!

His precious feet
Lounging in mommy's belly

his heart

Jackson waves, "Hello!"

It's a BOY!