And Cameron Makes Three...

The last three weeks have been a whirlwind!  Cameron Keith Ool joined us in dramatic fashion on February 12th at 6:22pm.  He measured 19.5" long and weighed in at 7lb 13oz.  After spending a few days at the hospital and now a couple weeks at home, we are working our way into a new routine... our new normal is what I keep telling Kevin.  Our baby boy could not be sweeter and has proven to be a huge hit with the family, a perk of being the first grandchild/nephew on either side of our family. 

While things are finally settling down at home, as I mentioned above, Cameron's entrance into this world did not exactly go as we had "planned."  Cameron was due on 2/11.  Once we realized he was not going to arrive on time, I planned to continue going to work so that I would have as much time at home with him once he actually arrived.  Monday, 2/11 came and went and I headed to work on 2/12 expecting nothing more exciting than a doctor's appointment that afternoon to confirm that we would go into the hospital Wednesday night, 2/13 for an induction on Thursday morning, 2/14.  We were not thrilled with the thought of a Valentine's Day baby, I don't want my boy sharing his special day with the rest of America, but knowing that there was light at the end of the tunnel was worth it.

Tuesday afternoon as my appointment approached, I realized that I was having some pain that I couldn't really put my finger on, in fact, I text messaged Kevin that I was not in labor, but I was definitely in pain.  Little did I know I was in labor.  After realizing the pain was getting progressively worse and at a regular pace, I headed to the doctor's office early just in case.  After alerting Kevin to the early departure, they rushed me into the doctor.  My regular exam showed that I was no more advanced toward labor than I had been.  We discussed my going home until the contractions became stronger and closer together, but after I asked Dr. Hix how I am supposed to know when that happens, we decided to hang out at the hospital for a while to see how I progressed.  Asking him that question was the best thing that I could have possibly done because we would have been half an hour away from the hospital when Cameron decided to start causing trouble.

We headed down to the ER to get hooked up and gauge how strong my contractions really were.  After an hour and still no progress, they were able to tell that my contractions were too strong to send me home and we would begin my induction early.  The nurse announced that we were going to have a baby and we happily called family to let them know we were going to check in and get induced.   After getting up to grab our things, they laid me back down to get me into a room and immediately, we knew there was a problem. The nurses were struggling to find Cameron's heart beat after hooking me back up to all of the monitors.  Once they did find it, it was less than half the rate it was supposed to be.  The nurses positioned me about ten different ways before finding something that gave Cameron some relief and had put me on oxygen as they frantically tried to track down the on-call doctor.  As they started calling out stats that I knew were troublesome and more and more nurses and staff filled the room, we began to panic.  The on-call doctor arrived and after a quick discussion, they explained that the intense contractions, but lack of movement were too stressful on Cameron and a c-section was our only option.  They told us that our son would be here in the next 30 minutes.  

Kevin was ushered away to change and I was prepped for surgery.  Cameron arrived just minutes later and the fireworks had not quite died down.  We couldn't hear him cry for some time.  The doctors said nothing as they worked, but we knew he had arrived.  I waited for the doctors to tell us what was happening and they finally explained that his chord was wrapped around his neck twice and they just needed to get him to a place where he could breathe comfortably.  Finally, we heard him cry and everyone in the room cheered!  It had to have been the longest hour in our lives, but our beautiful baby boy was finally here!

Now that we are a three weeks removed from the event it is hard to imagine life without Cameron.  We have officially classified him as a good baby.  He is a happy little camper most of the time aside from an hour of what we have deemed "fussy time" before bed.  He is a very healthy eater who gained a full pound in the first week he was home from the hospital.  He is also a pretty good sleeper waking only to eat and going back down pretty easily.  

Now begins the task of getting him on a schedule before I return to work... and losing the baby weight. :)  Wish me luck!

Are we there yet?

My last post was all about thanking those who have made this pregnancy easier... Today's post is a list of rules for everyone to follow when addressing myself or other pregnant women you may know.  I have thought of this list after the last few weeks have grown increasingly uncomfortable.  With yet another appointment with the doctor that gave me little hope of labor being imminent  I have transitioned from glowing mommy to be to just another frustrated mother in the last weeks of her  pregnancy... those who have been around me, may even classify me as angry and I would not be able to disagree.  Keep that in mind as you read my list of rules as well as the fact that I will one day return to normal, or so I am told :) .

First of all, after 39 weeks of carrying this baby around, I am brutally aware of the fact that I look huge, and also tired.  No need to point out that I am "so big" and looking "worn out".  I got it, thank you.  See photo evidence below.

Second, my due date is February 11th - one week from tomorrow.  If I have told you this multiple times, please do not walk by my desk every day at work and question, "You're still here????" I will be here until at least February 11th unless something happens sooner.  Again, thank you for your interest... kind of.

Next, unless you are currently as far along in a pregnancy as the woman you are addressing, you are not allowed to say ANYTHING about how she feels.  For example, if a woman is a bit disappointed in her lack of progress toward labor, no amount of stories about how you delivered weeks late will make her feel better.  In fact, if you tell her to relax and get some sleep she is more than likely going to "relax" by imagining you in any scenario that causes you to be as uncomfortable as she is as you have clearly forgotten that part of the process or you would not try to pacify her with these asinine suggestions.

These are just a few of the things that have recently come up that leave me to question the intelligence of some people.  On the other hand, there are a few things you should definitely do if it makes you feel better including...

1. Pay to have your house cleaned - seriously the best thing I have done for myself this entire pregnancy.
2. Try the old wive's tales to induce labor even if they only make you look silly and don't necessarily do anything for inducing labor.  If it gives you peace of mind, do it.
3. Be kind to your spouse even if he has no idea how you are feeling and can't completely appreciate your situation.  I am fully aware that I am going to become very dependent on him as a new life becomes dependent on me and that is one bridge I want intact when that time comes.
4. Ask for help.  This was especially hard for me, but I am so glad that I have learned to let some things go as the list of things that needs to be done is about to double.
5. Accept gifts from generous friends!  I got a couple of great gifts this week including a mommy survival kit and a handmade quilt for Cameron's cradle as well as some diaper money for our baby boy.  This just reminds me that for every person who says something annoying, there is someone who has been incredibly supportive!

Now I know what you are thinking... I am a bitter bitter woman, but I am hoping that this part is fleeting and that in as little as a week I will be holding our amazing baby boy in my arms.  I have yet to get to the point where I am worrying about the pain or discomfort of labor, and have fast-forwarded to being excited to see Kevin hold Cameron for the first time and being able to introduce our little man to the world.  See, I'm not always angry

Let's end on that semi-positive note and head onto the FAQ!

How are you sleeping?: Not more than a couple hours at a time.  I am ready for the late night feeding schedule!

What was the best moment this week?: My momma came down to babysit me per Kevin's request as he had to head out of town for work.  She spent a couple nights with me and we got to just hang out.

Do you miss anything?: I just cut up oranges for Kevin's Blue Moon to enjoy during the Super Bowl... kinda miss being able to have one of those! 

Cravings?: I wasn't having any until my friend Michelle put a box of  cosmic brownies into my mommy survival kit... now I want them all the time!

Mood lately?: Not so hot.  Just ready to have a baby in my arms and not my belly. 

What are you looking forward to?:  I am really looking forward to Kevin meeting Cameron.  I have been carrying him around for a while and feel like we are bonded, but it will be interesting to see Kevin when he is handed a baby for the first time.

Maternity Clothes?: Hanging in there with what I have.  No point in adding anything this far along.

Stretch Marks?: My three red dots are officially stretch marks, but are on my hip.  Not too noticeable so I figure I have gotten off easy so far.

Have a good week everyone, and if it isn't too much trouble, send some prayers our way that a sweet baby boy joins us this week!

And the award goes to...

Now that we are getting so close to baby boy actually arriving, I feel like I should take a few moments to present some awards to some people, places and things that have made this pregnancy easier on me, that and the Golden Globes inspired me!  A big congratulations to all the award winners... and a big thank you to everyone else who I may have forgotten, but hey, blame it on the baby brain.

First up, the award for most understanding friend goes to Morgan Nangle!  After spending years begging me not to get pregnant before she got married, it would happen that she sends a picture of the form fitting bridesmaids dress she has chosen for her nuptials just days after I got a positive result on a pregnancy test.  She took the news that I would be 8 months pregnant at her December wedding great and is one of Cameron's biggest fans. 

Next, the award for best mom of the momma to be goes to Dawn White.  Whether she was driving down for a day trip to buy me maternity clothes, or listening to me ramble about the long list of baby to-do's I was sure I would never complete, her support has been unwavering.  Not to mention she has gifted Cameron with some amazing items including refurbishing our family cradle, providing all bedding and accessories for Cameron's crib and even baby tevis shoes so that Cameron can join us on our annual camping trips.  

Onto the award for best shower throwing sister-in-laws which goes to Sarah and Megan!  From the assortment of snacks that were based on my cravings to the adorable milk bottles for all of the drinks, everything was perfect.  They threw a great party that everyone enjoyed and Cameron made out like a bandit.  Sarah and Megan have both been so excited to welcome their first nephew and have been so generous by throwing such a great shower not to mention giving Cameron some great gifts and helping to take good care of me by checking in on the phone and visiting to help me prepare for baby.

From family to co-workers, the award for most tolerant co-workers goes to the Walmart Grocery Visual Merchandising Team!  These poor people have suffered through my daily baby updates - they deserve more than this award, maybe I can come up with a medal.  They have tolerated my daily Cameron chatter and have even found a way to pretend like they are interested.  A big thank you to the whole team for putting up with me, and for taking over for me while I am on leave.

Also co-workers, both past and present, the award for the best "mommy Yodas" as I call them goes to Cortney Carlson, Amanda Crabtree and Ashley Evans.  Cortney started the baby train by getting pregnant a few months before me which meant I have always had someone to answer my questions and to provide me with practical advice.  Onto Amanda who couldn't help herself after Cortney and I got pregnant and decided to jump on the baby bandwagon.  She is my go to text-buddy when I need someone to tell me that there is light at the end of this tunnel and she is always good for a lunch or dinner date when I need to get out of the office.  Last, but not least, my 6:30am Crossfit buddy, Ashley.  She kept me motivated for 7 months of pregnant workouts until the doctor shut it down.  Her encouragement helped me to continue to get up and get my baby-carrying booty to the gym every morning so that I could keep my strength up.  These ladies are awesome!

I would be remiss not to mention a few places and things that have also helped me survive the last 9 months including...

• Best post doctor appointment snack spot - Steak-N-Shake 
• Best takeout dinner when I am too tired to cook - Cheese pizza from Sams
• Best substitute for beer - Oogave Gingerale - SOOOOO GOOD!
• Best pregnant happy hour - $1 Icee in the Walmart cafeteria from 1pm-3pm
• Best baby purchase - the remote controlled rocker that I will be living in once Cameron arrives

Finally, I don't know how I could have survived this pregnancy without this last award winner... the award for best ever baby daddy goes to Mr. Kevin Ool.  I cannot even begin to thank him enough for everything he has done to keep me sane the last 9 months.  He was supportive and comforting throughout the pregnancy, but it is even more evident how awesome he is in these last few weeks.  He has done everything from help me put on my socks if I just can stand to bend over to continuing to tell me how beautiful I am when we both know that I am a blown up version of my former self.  He has taken over all forms of dog duty so that I don't have to take the pup out as the weather has gotten colder and brings me anything I ask for without pointing out that I could probably get it myself just as easily.  Even this evening he came home with a beautiful orchid that I had my eye on because he thought if I took it to work it would make me happy for these last couple of weeks. Pizza pickups, foot rubs, housework help, crib construction and spirit lifting are just a few more of the things that have made me fall even more in love with my husband than I already was. I love you Kevin Ool and am so thankful for you everyday.

Onto the FAQ!

How are you sleeping?: Easy... I'm not.  I am well prepared for late nights at this point.

What was the best moment this week?: Being able to officially cross over and get the countdown under 4 weeks has been good.  I am beyond ready and knowing that he is considered full-term now makes it feel like we can finally get this show on the road. 

Do you miss anything?: I miss being able to find a comfortable position.  At this point sitting, standing and laying all prove to be bothersome in some way.  

Cravings?: Smores pop-tarts.  I have no idea why, but I went to four different places in my office yesterday seeking out a smores pop-tart only to find strawberry - Dang!  And yes, we have a lot of snack shacks at work.

Mood lately?: I have my moments. That is probably a better question for my Hubby or Momma who get my frantic phone calls when I am convinced that Cameron won't actually be born until July - they assure me that will not be the case. 

What are you looking forward to?:  Not being pregnant anymore... :)

Maternity Clothes?: I have expanded my wardrobe thanks to a few donations from a co-worker.  Probably a good thing or people would be looking at the same couple of shirts over and over again in these last couple of weeks.

Stretch Marks?: There are three red dots on me... I think they are the beginnings of stretch marks... Kevin thinks I am crazy.

The Finishing Touches

First of all, I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas and that you all were able to spend quality time with family and friends.  Kevin and I were lucky enough to enjoy a whole week off leading up to Christmas and while I have an excuse for resting and saving up my energy, Kevin decided to sympathize with me and get enough sleep over our break for the both of us. Below is our one and only picture from the holiday, but it may have been the first time we were both up and dressed at the same time all week.  And, I wanted to send a quick Happy Birthday shout out to my amazing baby daddy who celebrates his day-o-birth this week.  I love him so much now, I can't imagine how much I am going to love seeing him hold our baby boy.

Now that the Holidays are behind us, it is time to put the finishing touches on all things Cameron.  After a visit to the doctor the week before Christmas we found out that his development is tracking almost two weeks ahead of his due date.  I know that that could mean something, or nothing, but I am going to be ready either way.  Our due date is 2/11, but we were told that it will not be a surprise if he joins us first thing in February.  Knowing this, I kicked it into high gear.  After about 32 trips to Walmart for the essentials we were still missing including hospital snacks for Kevin, I started to feel better.  This weekend we finished up all the little details.  My mom drove down for a day of shopping where we picked up lots of last minute items, and Kevin and I spent today putting together Cameron's swing and stroller, not to mention getting his car seat bases loaded into both cars... just in case.

Kevin was so impressed that I had picked out such a manly set of wheels that he decided to be a good sport and take a spin...

 

I just can't believe that tomorrow is the last day in 2012 and then we roll into the year we will welcome our first baby.  I don't know who is more excited, me, my mom or my sister-in-laws!  Either way, Kevin and I are just so thankful that we have had a fairly easy pregnancy for the most part and that our little man is looking healthy and strong as we enter our last few quiet weeks.  Who knows, we may even stay up past our bedtime on New Year's Eve to celebrate... ok, probably not.  

Last but not least, I felt the need to post a belly picture update as I am astounded at how people react when they see the recent growth.  FYI to all men out there, yelling, "Oh wow - you can't hide that thing!" is not a great way to point out that yes, I am getting a bit rounder. Yes that happened and you know who you are.  HA!

Read on for the FAQ!

How are you sleeping?: Sporadically.

What was the best moment this week?: We had a great Christmas... Santa was very good to me so I have been enjoying some generous gifts. 

Do you miss anything?: Hard to do the family holidays without a beer or glass of wine... It's what we do. :)

Cravings?: Nothing lately, but when I want to eat, you better feed me!

Mood lately?: Pretty good.  I have yet to enter the OMG phase as a friend of mine put it - as in oh my God, I am going to have a person I am responsible for or oh my God, I actually have to go through labor.  I am not necessarily worried about labor, or taking care of Cameron once we arrive home, I am just ready to get this show on the road and meet him.

What are you looking forward to?:  I am starting to picture Cameron in our lives more and more as we get closer to delivery and I am really looking forward to seeing my husband become a father.  It will be interesting to say the least, but it is going to be amazing!

Maternity Clothes?: Still not a single pair of maternity pants to my name thanks to the belly band, but every outfit comes complete with a camisole and a stretchy blouse.

Stretch Marks?: Still no, and it better stay that way!

Finally, a big congratulations to my good friend Angela who just found out she will be on team pink when her baby girl arrives in a few more months. 

Happy New Year!

Closing in on it...

It really feels like we are closing in on Cameron's arrival now.  It has been a super busy couple of weeks and we have marked a couple of major events off of the pre-Cameron list.  

First up, Mr. and Mrs. Nangle.  We headed to St. Louis last weekend to celebrate one of my best friend's weddings.   We had such a good time celebrating with friends and I could not have been more honored to stand up as Morgan became Mrs. Nangle.  Let's hear it for the weird last name club!

The beautiful bride.

Ready to walk down the aisle!

Kevin being a good sport.

Next on the list was my office baby shower.  My co-workers were so generous and we were outfitted with plenty of diapers and gift cards among other things to help us prep for baby boys arrival.  A big thank you to everyone who had a hand in the event.  Kevin and I greatly appreciated it!

Finally, we have our last major delivery for Cameron and my comfort, his super awesome remote controlled recliner from Bedtime Stories.  I was not sure when Kevin pointed it out in the store and was sure that the remote control was the only reason he thought it was a good idea, but after a few late night feedings laid back in this bad boy, I am sure I will be thanking him!  This thing was worth every penny and it makes me feel like we are really ready for Cam to arrive now that it and his cradle are situated in our bedroom.

We are in our 32nd week now and head back to the doctor next week for a checkup.  We will have an ultrasound done to get a better estimate on how developed he is as they believe he is measuring ahead of schedule.  I am convinced that they were way off and he will actually be late but that is probably just the optimist in me coming out.  We also have to check up on some of my levels as baby boy is literally sucking the life out of his Momma and caused a few problems in the last month.  After being put on a moderated rest schedule that included reduced hours at work, no more Crossfit and a specially designed diet I am starting to feel a bit better, but am prepared to ride out whatever Cameron throws at me for these last few weeks.  

Onto the FAQ!

How are you sleeping?: If I was sleeping, I would tell you how it felt, but that is just not the case.

What was the best moment this week?:  We had a lot of great moments in the last few weeks, but the best was celebrating Morgan and Drew!  Their big day was beautiful and the Ool family had a great time.

Do you miss anything?: I miss being able to have a drink with my girlfriends after the wedding.  Sparkling grape juice was just not the same. :)

Cravings?: Not much... and it's a good thing now that I am focusing on eating foods that my body will process which are not nearly as exciting as what I would want to eat.

Mood lately?: Kevin and I have a week off leading up to Christmas, so I am really looking forward to that and in a great mood!

What are you looking forward to?:  I am just ready to meet our little guy. Now that he is getting so much bigger and I am so much more aware of his presence in there, I am beyond anxious to hold this little person that Kevin and I have been waiting on.

Maternity Clothes?: Bought a couple more tops this week after realizing that even some of the maternity clothes I have are getting tighter... we will see how these last few weeks go.

Stretch Marks?: Nothing yet and hoping it stays that way.

Thanks for reading.  Have a great week and a very Merry Christmas everyone!

The countdown is on!

Well, I think we can officially say that the countdown is on!  As of Wednesday we will only have 10 weeks left until Cameron arrives...possibly less.  We got a chance to check on baby boy last week and our doctor thinks that he is measuring ahead of where my due date is.  This is good for a couple of reasons...first of all, Cameron may arrive earlier than expected.  Second, they called for an ultrasound at our next appointment to verify his size, weight and development level so that means we get to catch another peek at our sweet baby.  I can hardly wait!

As everyone knows, last week we celebrated Thanksgiving.  This pregnant woman was lucky enough to get two dinners, one at my Grandma's house on Thursday, and another once Adam and Megan joined us on Saturday.  Both meals were delicious, and I am so thankful to have been able to spend so much time with our family.  Not only did we celebrate Thanksgiving, but we also exchanged sibling gifts because we won't be able to all get together for Christmas.  I scored this awesome t-shirt from Megan and can't wait to wear it proudly.

At this point I am fully aware that I am not in control of how I will feel when I wake up everyday and that will only become more true as this pregnancy progresses.   With that said, I have decorated minimally for Christmas because who knows if I will have any energy at all once Christmas passes to take decorations down. All presents for the holidays and Kevin's birthday in January are purchased, wrapped and ready to go!  I was the poster child for pregnancy for a solid 26 weeks but as we near the finish line, it is like someone built a brick wall in front of my face that I repeatedly run into.  There are the normal symptoms of constant bathroom breaks and sleeplessness, but as back pain and extreme fatigue set in I have gone ahead and accepted that Cameron is making his presence known.  I just keep focusing on the fact that I have been lucky to have had so little trouble up to this point and that there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel and not to mention a snugly baby boy!  What comes before snugly baby boy you ask... the answer to that is simple - great big baby belly.  Check it out!

Onto the questions...

How are you sleeping?: Poorly.  I will be more than prepared for sleepless nights!

What was the best moment this week?:  Anytime all of my immediate family can get together in the same place it is always a good time.  We were lucky enough to have a nice long weekend relaxing together.

Do you miss anything?: I miss feeling like myself.  It is difficult to go from intense workouts and high energy to grunting every time I try to sit up without help.  Luckily Kevin has been incredible and he is always there to get me up off of the ground if I can't do it alone. :)

Cravings?: Nothing special, but I do have to eat often... not really eating a lot, but trying to get something on my stomach every couple of hours.

Mood lately?: I had a four day weekend this week... I was in a great mood!

What are you looking forward to?:  Having the holidays arrive is getting me really excited about the fact that this time next year we will have a super fun addition to the family to play with in the form of one Cameron Ool!

Maternity Clothes?: Just trying to stay comfortable at this point, regardless of what it is I am wearing.

Stretch Marks?: So far... so good. Keep your fingers crossed people!

Shower Time!

It has been a busy couple of weeks and we have gotten a lot accomplished toward being able to bring our baby boy home.  Thanks to some amazing women in my life, Cameron was honored in a big way at his baby shower.  We came home with lots of great outfits, tons of new books and plenty of other loot to get Cameron started.

Baby boy's banner

Loved the milk bottles for drinks!

Delicious cupcakes

Cameron's wreath from his Aunt Megan

Beautiful Hostesses, Aunt Megan, Aunt Sarah and honorary Aunt MoMo

Once we got home from the shower we were able to put the final touches on the nursery. Cameron may not be ready to make his appearance quite yet, but he will have somewhere to have his diaper changed and lay his head down when he gets here.  Now all we are waiting on is the fancy remote controlled recliner we ordered for feedings and we are all set.    Here are a few pics!

Bookshelves - he is going to be super smart!

This is how I roll. :)

Diapers and burp cloths stocked

His bicycle bedding is very manly 

And after another picture loaded blog post... onto the questions!

How are you sleeping?: Ok, but everything I read says I am about to get very tired... that sounds promising.

What was the best moment this week?:  I was so excited when Cameron's bedding arrived.  It finally feels like the nursery is complete.

Do you miss anything?: Being able to breathe... does that count if technically I am breathing it just takes extra work?

Cravings?: Not much lately.  I am at the point where I am really not terribly hungry anymore.  Smaller meals is the name of the game from here on out.

Mood lately?: Good week.  Probably means next week will be a bad week.  Someone warn my husband.

What are you looking forward to?:  Next week I will officially enter my third trimester.  It is the last big hurdle and the beginning of the downhill slide so I will be happy to be over that hump. 

Maternity Clothes?: Heading to Motherhood today as a matter of fact to see if I can find something that is not terribly maternity looking, but allows Cameron room to breathe.

Stretch Marks?: So far... so good.