Check me out...I'm growing!

2 weeks old!

Harper is 2 weeks old today! She has already changed so much from those first photos at the hospital! We are loving every minute of being parents (literally, even getting up at night!) and feel so blessed that we have such a healthy, beautiful little girl! She is still sleeping really well, 4-5 hour stretches! She really only cries when she is hungry or has an upset tummy. She and Kennedy are still getting along well- he likes to give her kisses every now and then, but otherwise has kept to himself. Harper had her Dr. appointment last Friday- she went from 6 lb. 13 oz. to 7 lb. 10 oz. Needless to say, she is eating really well and Dr. said she is healthy and doing great. We don't go back until our one month check up now! She got to meet her Uncle Dan this week, and we asked him to be Harper's Godfather. He was really excited and honored. Also, she got to meet Mr. and Mrs. Kuennen on Sunday- we went to Joe and Becky's for ribs :) She has had a busy 2nd week!! She is really excited for tomorrow when she gets to meet Grandma Betsy!

4th of July!

Harper's first holiday! We went to the Lomas' to celebrate the 4th of July with a small group of friends. My parents were in town, so they came with us. Brian and Kalin made a ton of delicious food and everyone enjoyed seeing Ms. Harper. She really did have a good time, although it doesn't look like it in this family photo :)

1 Week Old!

Wow! They always tell you how quickly time flies when you have kids...I hope it slows down a little. Justin and I cannot believe she is already a week old. The transition of brining her home was flawless. Kennedy seemed less than interested and has been really great with her. Harper has been sleeping 4-5 hours at a time, which has been great for Mommy and Daddy at night! My mom and dad were here helping a lot this week. It was so nice to come home from the hospital to a clean house, fresh sheets on the bed, a freezer full of food, and helpers to allow us to get a bit more rest! Thanks mom and dad! Overall, a very enjoyable but fast first week!

Happy Birthday Harper Grace!

Harper's First Picture

First Family Photo

On June 26,  a typical summer day,  at 3:23 in the afternoon, they placed a 7 pound 6 ounce miracle in our arms. 5 days early and only 6 hours after arriving at the hospital, she arrived and she was perfect- we named her Harper Grace!

39 Weeks

39 Weeks

I hope this is my last entry.... for the pregnancy, anyway! 

Week: 39

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a watermelon...this week, it looks and feels that way! This is one huge baby bump! 

Stretch Marks: Nope! Not anywhere on the belly that I can actually still see, anyway! 

Maternity Clothes: Looking forward to wearing some normal clothes somewhat soon....this wardrobe is getting tiring and impossible with the heat. Looking at a few days in the 100's this upcoming week. Fingers crossed she arrives before then! 

Sleep: Tossing and turning, and using the bathroom often...but still getting plenty of rest. 

Movement: Still active and moving around...I don't know how she has any room in there! 

Yummy: Sugar snap peas, passion ice tea lemonade from Starbucks, cake (from Justin's birthday!), pasta, pizza, cereal, strawberries, and watermelon! 

Eww!: Coffee, Bananas, and yogurt! 

Symptoms: Everything but actual labor contractions! 

Mood: Impatient....very impatient! And nervous and anxious and excited and getting restless sitting around and waiting. Leave it to our child to be stubborn and come when she wants though. She is standing her ground already :)

High of the week: Lots! Justin's birthday was great. One last birthday just the two of us! We had meatloaf (his favorite), cake, and presents! Drew and Candice welcomed their little baby boy, Caden- and I got to visit him the morning of Justin's birthday! He is absolutely precious! My friends from work, Amanda and Melissa, also had their babies this week- Emily and Declan! Both so cute and cannot wait to meet them! Congrats to all of you lucky ladies who had beautiful babies this week! I am so happy (and jealous!) for each of you and can't wait for future play dates! 

Low of the week: Heading to the hospital because I thought my water broke, only to be told it was urinary incontinence because she is pressing so hard on my bladder. In other words, no labor- just peeing myself and it will probably continue occasionally until she is born. Lucky me :) I am still only 1 cm and 50% effaced. Hoping that labor kicks in soon.

Most looking forward to: My appointment on Monday morning! Wanting to know if there is anything more they can do to move this along. Hoping we can discuss an induction date so we have an end in sight! 

38 Weeks!

38 Weeks!

Week: 38

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a watermelon...and it feels that way. She should be over 7 pounds now if the ultrasound at 36 weeks was correct. She will be a healthy, perfectly sized baby! 

Stretch Marks: None- and the Doctor commented on how lucky I was! Thanks for all the lotions and salt scrubs, Dad! It really worked! 

Maternity Clothes: Oh, the few I can still fit in...and lots of Justin's clothes!

Sleep: Sleeping well still. Up to use the restroom often. I sleep with a fan blowing in my face because I am so warm all of the time, so I am hoping poor Justin isn't freezing through the night. 

Movement: Still very active...but more jabs than big rolling movements as she is running out of space in there! 

Yummy: Strawberries, Nectarines, Corn on the cob, and Sweets! 

Eww!: Coffee and bananas. 

Symptoms: Oh, its the home stretch. I have all of the symptoms! Braxton Hicks contractions, sore feet and back, heartburn, etc. It will all be worth it! 

Mood: Frustrated and uncomfortable, but anxious and happy at the same time!

High of the week: We spent the weekend in the city with the Jehls, Browns, and Brett/Jaclyn! It was so nice because we normally have Kennedy and don't have the freedom to spend the night. We figured it would be one of the last opportunities to be without the responsibility of a child and a dog, so we stayed for the weekend! We had a wonderful dinner on the patio at the Jehl's on Friday night. The food was amazing and the drinks looked delicious! Becky was sweet and bought me organic strawberry lemonade, which I enjoyed in a wine glass. Gotta fit in :) They were having these delicious looking lime-ritas and I look forward to having one at some point soon! On Saturday, we helped the Browns move in to their new apartment in the city! It is very nice and we can't wait to see it again when it is all put together! 

Low of the week: Trying to get dressed- both physically and picking out clothes. Nothing looks flattering anymore and trying to dress for this heat is a chore! Luckily, Justin compliments me no matter what I look like...and always makes me feel pretty! Thanks :)

Most looking forward to: The big day!

37 Weeks!

37 Weeks! Officially full term!

Week: 37

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a watermelon! At our last appointment, we had the ultrasound, and they told us she is around 6 lb. 5 oz. and should gain about a half an ounce a day or so. She is measuring at the 48% for weight and height- the Dr. said that is right where we want her to be! All good news! They also said she has hair and high cheek bones! So cute. Cannot wait to see her precious face!

Stretch Marks: Still none- and still applying lotion and oil daily. I have been blessed so far! 

Maternity Clothes: Thankful that I no longer have to go to work and wear decent clothes, because everything is looking silly- especially the options I have for this heat! I have been living in Justin's t-shirts and boxers, as well as a few maternity tank tops and capris! 

Movement: Still see her flop from side to side. Often times my belly is lopsided and I think it is her little butt sticking out. Too cute! 

Yummy: Lots of fruit, pancakes, tons of water and crystal light, cereal, ice cream, peanut butter toast.

Eww!: Fast food/fried food wasn't appealing this week. 

Symptoms: Uncomfortable! Heartburn, sore back, sleepless nights.....again....it will all be worth it. I have also had more pressure in my chest this week....hoping this is normal and will talk to to the doctor about it next week. 

Mood: Nervous for the delivery, anxious to see what she looks like, happy that she will be here so soon and Justin and I will officially have a family. It is pretty amazing! 

High of the week: The ultrasound- seeing her again and hearing that everything was healthy and measuring perfectly! Also, my parents came for the weekend. We went to dinner and they took Kennedy home with them until she arrives. We miss him, but it is nice to not have to worry about him and really prepare for her arrival. 

Low of the week: My wedding ring no longer fits :(   Given the heat and slight swelling, I can only comfortably wear my wedding band. I will still put it on if we are going out for the night or something, but during the day/heat- it is a no go! 

Most looking forward to: her arrival and the next doctors appointment to see if there is any progression! I honestly have never been more excited for anything. I cannot wait for Justin and I to meet this sweet little girl. I just pray for a healthy delivery and speedy recovery! 

36 Weeks!

36 Weeks! 

Week: 36

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a watermelon! That is our final fruit on the countdown ladies and gentlemen. She will stay a watermelon for the next few weeks, gaining about one ounce per week she is almost fully grown and developed. The only thing that matures from this point forward are her lungs and cute baby fat. She is also shedding the hair that covers her skin and the waxy substance that has protected it. She is getting ready for her big debut and getting pretty :)

Stretch Marks: I have none, and I am thankful- however, I have now been blessed with the dark line that runs down the middle of your belly. Most people get this around 20 weeks or so, so I thought I was in the clear...but it is here! Glad it arrived post maternity photos. It looks kind of funny against my pale skin!

Maternity Clothes: Look big in anything....maternity or not....but we are almost there! My mom sent me a really pretty tank top that I was able to wear to a bachelorette party this past weekend which made me feel pretty....thanks Mom!

Movement: This week, we could see a smaller body part (either an elbow, knee, or hand) making its way up the middle of my stomach. Totally crazy! It was amazing to watch!

Yummy: Sweets and Fruit! 

Eww!: Not a whole lot....everything has been good this week! 

Symptoms: Extremely uncomfortable, but I know it will be worth it. Terrible heartburn and very sore feet (although not swollen, so thats good!) I have been very tired and am really having a difficult time moving around, getting out of bed, getting dressed, putting on shoes, etc. I am thankful that we only have 4 weeks to go and that Justin is so supportive and helpful! 

Mood: Irritable when I cannot get comfortable, otherwise happy and excited that we are in the home stretch! 

High of the week: The best pedicure ever on Sunday! The woman, who I believe felt bad for me, went above and beyond and gave me a hot stone massage, a sea salt scrub, a hot towel wrap, and a 10 minute lotion massage from my knees down. In addition to the fact that my toe nails severely needed some attention (as I have not been able to reach them for a few weeks now), the massages were much needed. It was amazing! 

Low of the week: Rain on Field Day! I worked so hard to plan our all school field day and it was the one day in the past two weeks that the weather wasn't beautiful! Oh well! The rain plan worked wonderfully and the kids still had a blast!  Oh---that, or the strep B test which no one warned me was so invasive! Yikes!

Most looking forward to: Our next doctor appointment! We get to see this little girl via ultrasound. They should tell us how big she is, how big they think she will be at delivery, what position she is in, etc. The big day is getting close! 

35 Weeks!

35 Weeks!

Week: 35

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a pineapple. She should measure in over 5 pounds and be as tall as she will be at delivery! Somewhere between 18-22 inches! 

Stretch Marks: No-only 5 weeks to go! 

Maternity Clothes: Finding it harder to look cute in warm weather clothes. I have no shorts and a few dresses that work. I am determined not to have to buy any more before she arrives....so Justin's t-shirts at night are working wonders! 

Movement: Still moving around quite a bit...and still most active around 7/8 PM

Yummy: Red Grapes, Watermelon, Muffins, Iced Coffee, Frozen Lemonade, Peaches

Eww!: Any hot drink....tea, coffee, etc. (due to the heat), chicken

Symptoms: Officially very uncomfortable. :)

Mood: Excited to meet her, anxious for the delivery, nervous for the postpartum care of myself and settling into a routine here. 

High of the week: Spending the day in the city on Saturday to celebrate Brandi and Becky's birthday. It was fun to see everyone and relax downtown on such a beautiful day. I enjoyed a non-alcoholic beer, which I made sure to keep in the bottle as to not get dirty looks from other people :) 

Low of the week: Just getting tired again...

Most looking forward to: This being the last official week of school with the kiddos....we will be done on Friday!

34 Weeks!

34 Weeks!

Week: 34

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a honeydew. She is anywhere from 4.2-5.8 pounds and should be almost full length! 

Stretch Marks: No- still using bio oil every night and a sugar scrub in the shower on my belly!

Maternity Clothes: Even the maternity clothes are starting to get a little snug....or I guess, short. The shirts don't seem to be long enough to cover this big belly. I have been wearing a lot of Justin's t-shirts and have even found that buying some clothes in the women's department, but larger, has worked well. It is hard to dress comfortably in this warm weather...I am thankful I will not be pregnant all summer!

Movement: Moving a ton again! It is like a dance party in there all the time. You can actually watch my stomach roll and move with her. It is unreal! Although it still makes me concerned that she is not head down. 

Yummy: Watermelon, Iced coffee drinks, Mango lemonade, any kind of cereal, pancakes

Eww!: Regular coffee (which I guess is a good thing!) and certain brands of milk, which I never seemed to notice before. 

Symptoms: Just exhausted....really, really exhausted.  I am finding it more and more difficult to get through the workday and I am thankful there are only two weeks of school left. I have been having more lower back pain, really sore (but not too swollen) feet, extremely sore hips, and horrible heartburn. I also can no longer shave my legs, put on shoes, or really get dressed without help! Thank God Justin is so awesome and helpful with everything! 

Mood: Impatient....I am ready to meet her! 

High of the week: My feet were so sore this weekend and Justin soaked towels in ice water and wrapped my feet in them and it was heaven on earth! Best husband ever! Oh, and we picked our pediatrician this week- so I feel like we have all of the big things taken care of. We will be using North Arlington Pediatrics in Arlington Heights! 

Low of the week: Too tired/huge to enjoy activities that I want to be able to enjoy! I actually miss walking the dog and being able to take a bath or get out of bed without it being a struggle. I have truly enjoyed being pregnant and I know I have had it very easy...and I am so thankful for that...but I am about done! I am just constantly uncomfortable! 

Most looking forward to: A long weekend and then school being over so I can nest a little before this little girl arrives. Cannot wait to meet her sweet little face! 

Nursery Photos

Here are some pictures of the nursery! It has turned out better than I could have imagined! My mom made all of the bedding for us (Thanks, Mom!) and it matches the wall colors perfectly. We found the dresser on clearance at TJ MAXX and got an additional discount because it was missing knobs. We then went to Hobby Lobby to get the pink knobs to make it tie in with the room. It is my favorite piece in the nursery! We love the over stuffed reader style rocking chair, which we picked out from Babies 'R Us. The lamps, end table, and green wire storage bins also came from the fabulous TJ MAXX. We painted the desk, which is a piece of furniture that we had in our foyer previously. It works perfectly in the room. The crib is the sleigh crib from Pottery Barn. The wall decal was ordered from Surface Inspired on Etsy...and it was really easy to put up (but time consuming!) and I just love it. We will add the name hanging from the clothes line when she arrives! Can't wait to reveal that to all of you! XO!

33 Weeks

33 Weeks!

Week: 33

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a durian. I don't even know what that is! But, she should be around 4.5 pounds and 19 inches.

Stretch Marks: Not a single one....really hoping I get lucky with this!

Maternity Clothes: I will be sporting some new ones! My Dad and Mom got me a few new outfits for Mother's Day so that I would have some new things to get me through these last weeks. So thoughtful...and I love them! 

Movement: Slowing down a little as her space is growing smaller. Still quite active though. Wondering if she has managed to make her way head down....

Yummy: Watermelon, Pasta, Lemonade, Rice, Apples with Peanut Butter

Eww!: Eggs and yogurt

Symptoms: Being huge...and tired! Heartburn is crazy and I feel like I have to sleep sitting up! My feet are starting to get swollen by the end of the day, but the fingers are okay....still wearing my rings!

Mood: Excited and getting really anxious for the delivery process. Just so excited to meet this little girl!

High of the week: Having my parents here for Mother's Day weekend was awesome! It was great to spend some time relaxing with them before baby arrives. My mom helped a lot with organizing and cleaning- which was great. Her room is now completely ready except putting the white picture frames on the shelves. It feels good to have things ready to go! Also, we found our daycare provider this week! Her name is Liz and she is awesome. We are really excited and will be starting with her on September 4th. It feels good to have that taken care of and to have found someone that we really like that works with our schedules!

Low of the week:  It was just a really busy week, so I was more exhausted than normal. We had some sort of baby meeting every night between daycares and the hospital classes. Nothing too bad or worth complaining about...

Most looking forward to: Getting the pictures ordered to complete the nursery!

32 weeks!

32 Weeks! 

Week: 32

Baby: Baby Pease is the size of a honeydew. She is somewhere between 3.5-4 pounds and between 17-19 inches. Her hair now has color too, question is...what color?

Stretch Marks: Not one....hard to believe with a belly that big!

Maternity Clothes: Even some of the maternity clothes I bought are getting a little small. The belly is just getting bigger and bigger...and the doctor said it is not done growing yet! 

Movement: Constantly...go figure...after our moms leave....she is back in full force...she is going to grow up to be an athlete because she is just kicking and punching away in there. Also, the doctor said she is head up right now...so hopefully she will get into position soon!

Yummy: Peanut Butter Sandwiches, red grapes, watermelon, banana bread french toast from Egg Harbor, cereal, raspberry lemonade. 

Eww!: Bananas...and yogurt....but still trying to eat them. 

Symptoms: Heartburn that keeps me up at night, and just generally uncomfortable now! I can no longer reach my toes...showering, getting dressed, etc. is more of a chore...but I know it will all be worth it! On a positive, I still have no stretch marks, weight gain is right on track, and my skin is still clear...so I'll take it :)

Mood: Anxious to meet this little girl. Happy now that her room is more organized and all of her essentials are put together and clothes are washed. Now, we wait and enjoy the last 8 weeks or so without a little one around...

High of the week: Justin and I had a very relaxing weekend just working on things around the house. We put together her bassinet, pack and play, swing, rock and play sleeper, and painted a desk for her room to put all of her books and pictures on. It was so nice to just relax together after a really busy couple of weeks with visitors, moving, getting settled, starting his new job, traveling up to WI, etc. Also, he is the best husband ever...and has completely taken over the responsibilities for Kennedy (which as you know, can be many) and he even took the toe nail polish off my toes because I couldn't reach! He is simply the best! 

Low of the week:  Going back to work after taking Friday and Monday off with our moms being here. It was hard going back after a sub had been in for two days in a row (something I have never done) and I wasn't exactly prepared for the rest of the weeks lesson plans....so it was a little stressful!  

Most looking forward to: Meeting with two potential in home daycare centers this week to interview them. I am really anxious to ask them questions and see their homes and hopefully find a place that will work for our little princess. It is going to be an impossible decision because, as any mom knows, no one will do things exactly the way you would...so we need to find someone who will be as close as it gets! Both women seem great and we can't wait to meet them and get our initial reactions!