Baby M's Gender Reveal Party. . . .Whats the scoop??

Sooo. . .I have found that most people either definitely know what the Gender Reveal Party is or they have no clue.. ... .Stephanie = NO CLUE- SHOCKER!

What is a gender reveal party?? Only the cool parents do it- hahah!! J/K
No really. . . . it is just a fun time to put your own creativity to use and come up with a fun and unique way to tell your family and closest friends whether they need to be buying pink or blue for your newest bundle of baby. The big decision is whether to find out the sex of the baby together at the doctors office prior to your party, or to get the ultrasound tech to write it down on an envelope and then give it to your cake lady.  Ohhh the suspense of someone else knowing what your baby is, but you dont.  Needless to say it will be a game time decision for Pete and I.
Check out Baby M's adorable invite that Pete and designed together.. . CUTENESS!!!

I am not the type to just blurt out what the baby is, so of course I had to come up with something slightly original.  I was surprised but Pete was really on board once I told him my idea. 

Our Big day for the gender reveal party is Saturday, July 2nd.  We can't wait because our closest BFF's are all making the drive in to be here for the special announcement.  We will definitely have a cool menu that consists of Heather & Pete's cravings.  Yes, Pete is included. . ..him and I actually have a bet of who will gain the most weight during me being pregnant.   So far I am wining and Pete has tipped the scale for sure more than I have- haha!!  You will have to wait and see what actually shows up on the menu of cravings.

The super talented Lisa, my Mom's BFF, will be making the adorable reveal cake.  She certainly has artistic talent, so I can't wait to see her creation.  For the record, she has already decided that she is wearing blue prior to her even knowing the final verdict on Baby M ( which will be Friday).  She will be the only one to know prior to the party on Saturday- CRAZY!!!

We have all kinds of fun things planned. . .so lets just say it wont be a lame baby party.  We asked everyone to pick a team and wear a specific colored shirt depending on what they think will be inside the cake. There will be adult beverages tinted in pink and blue, and I am sure there will be a few "games" between team Pink and team Blue.  Stayed tuned for the details. . . .it is bound to be good :)

Love HCM + Baby M

17 Weeks!!

This week we made our first baby item purchase.  The back pain is in full swing at night all of the sudden, so one night Pete and I went to target and purchased the Adult Boppy Pillow  Since I can no longer sleep on my back, this is suppose to help!  I even broke down and started taking melatonin again so I can sleep more then a few hours at a time.  Yikes this makes me nervous since it is still early on.  What was really hilarious was that  Pete had to show me how it worked!  Literally you would not think it would be that complicated, but somehow I made it that way- haha!

17 Week Stats!

How Far Along: 17 Weeks + a few days

Size of Baby M:  A Turnip-- 5 oz or so

Cravings: Cold things since it is so freaking hot here in NC!! Any kind of fresh fruit, and I love the banana peanut butter smoothie at Smoothie King in Ballantyne.  Plus, I love any dessert ( I knew that would make a come back from the 1st trimester)

Symptoms: Major back pain- Yikes!! It gets really bad a night and I have to pee about 3 times during the night as well so sleep isn't going so great right now.  Poor Pete can't even get to me in the bed now that we are separated by the ginormous Boppy Pillow.

Total Weight Gain: Probably not a huge change, but I will find out next week

Best Moment of the week:  Getting these adorable invites in for our Baby Reveal Party :)  Less than 2 weeks till we all find out.  I wish I had a distinct feeling. . . .95% of people think girl, but I am not 100% sure. . .
Other bonus: The belly isn't quite growing yet, but being pregnant is like getting an instant natural boob job- YAH!!

Any Baby Movement? Pete and I thought we felt something this past week, it is just so hard to tell with everything going on.  I have not felt anything distinct so hopefully this week.

Here is what Baby M is doing this week:

Pregnancy 101 Questions!

     16 1/2 Week Pic!!  Still no real bump yet. . . .just a slight one

I always like to ask a million questions, especially if it is something I am interested in.  Since breaking the news about the bun in the oven, I have had all kinds of fun questions asked of me.  Here are just a few that I really liked :)
Keep bringing them on ladies:

*Q1- Was it frustrating or did it take you a while to get pregnant?  Did you do anything different?

*A: Actually I was really surprised that it happened immediately.  I had definitely mentally prepared myself for about a 6 month time frame so that I would not freak out if it took a while.  I also decided to take prenatal vitamins about 6 months in advance since we were not sure when we would start trying-- that could have been different then what most people do, but what my doctor recommended.  I have heard that it is better to prepare your body rather than not, so I just made sure I stayed calm and just went about my normal day once we decided to go off the pill.  We just went on with our normal lives so it wasn't like I had sex more, or freaked out about certain days or did ovulation strips ( I did end up using them, but only after I was already pregnant and thought I had missed 2 periods).  I highly recommend those trying to conceive to check out this website and purchase some of their products- they also have coupons to save you 10-20%, plus free shipping:
Early-Pregnancy-Tests.Com

*Q2- Have you been sick?  ( I got asked this alot)

*A: I really lucked out with not getting morning sickness.  The only time that I have felt truly barfy was when we flew to Mexico in May.  I definitely have had some other odd symptoms but I tend to honestly get more "night sickness" as I like to call it.  Around 8 or 9pm I feel the heartburn, stomach cramps, bloating. . . .so maybe mine is a reverse.  I have never actually thrown up.  I did ask my doctor her thoughts on the correlation between morning sickness and the gender of the baby.  She said that honestly has nothing to do with it and some people will be dog sick either way, and others will feel better than ever.
My big thing has been cramping from day 1-- that is actually how I figured out I was pregnant.  Even now at almost 16 weeks, the cramping is almost a daily thing.

*Q3- Everyone wants to know about Sex during pregnancy- haha!

A: Honestly I think this just depends on the couple.  For me, it has not been a big deal or any issue, but I would totally understand if one of my girlfriends said they were totally UN-interested.  I mean lets face it-- with all the pressure, extra blood flow, extra sensitivity and cramping. . . .it may be the last thing you want to think about.  I do think the ladies have to think about the hubs and how that could be a very long 9 months. . . . .I also think sometimes it may be the guys that get weird at the thought of a baby being "right there" ( as they like to think- haha).  You just have to do what you feel comfortable with as a couple-- that would be my advice on that one.

*Q4- Are you going to find out the Sex??

A: Definitely YES!! We actually are planning on having a 4th of July/Baby Reveal Party to tell our closest friends and fam the sex of Baby M.  This is becoming a more popular trend these days rather than just blurting out what the baby is.  I think because it is our first, I want to do as many cool things as possible to remember all the excitement.  Plus, with our awesome group of friends it is just another excuse to have a party and hang out together.  When we go for the 18 week fetal anatomy ultrasound, we are hoping that Baby M will cooperate and we will be able to find out if it is a he or a she.  I just ordered the invites for the party and I can't wait to see them :)

*Q5- Are you scared about the delivery and what are your thoughts on getting an epidural?

A: I know it is going to hurt-- that is for sure!! I have a high tolerance for pain ( I think) and so although I have doubts about how it is possible for this baby to fit out, I know it happens everyday. 
Probably the hardest part is not knowing the level of pain.  I am definitely getting an epidural-- why be in pain if you don't have to??  More power to the Moms that can go natural-- I know my Mom did that with all 3 of us, but there is no way I am going to venture down that road :)
I hope I only have to push for a few minutes. . . .PLEASE GOD!!!

*Q5 - Do you think that you will travel less when Baby M comes?

A:  I am sure our lifestyle is going to change more then we can comprehend at this point.  We have always loved to travel, even if it is just a short trip. I remember one year our goal was to go somewhere every month for the year- haha! If I sold a house, we would say. . . .ok where to next. This year so far we have been to: NYC, Charleston, San Fran, & Mexico and it is only June. I think we will still take trips within driving distance, but I don't know how flying with an infant will go.  I guess we will just have to see how easy going the Lil bun is and then go from there.

*Q6- What are you going to do for the nursery and name?

A:  I really have not done or envisioned anything yet.  Once I know what Baby M is, I will be going to town with the baby ideas.  I am going to check out alot of color pallets because I want the nursery to be something classic and chic and not babyish.  I would love it if the nursery could be something that could be used/converted for a while even when the baby gets older.  I will be sure to post some pics when my ideas start coming together.
Regarding the name-- I have a feeling we might keep that a secret until the end.  It will literally probably take Pete and I till the Baby is born to agree on a name- haha!  Who knows we might change our mind and let everyone know if we come to a decision, but I also think we might want to actually see the baby to see if they look like the name we picked out.

*Q7- Are you going to work after the baby is born? ( This has been a big question so far)

A:  YES!! I know my life and priorities will be changing dramatically, but my career has always been a huge part of me.  The drive and motivation makes up a part of me that I would feel lost without.  Baby M is going to be my main focus, but I definitely will be going back to work after the maternity leave.  I think it is awesome for the Moms that can stay home as that is a full time job in itself.   I just don't think I am cut out to be a stay at home Mom.  I have wanted to be a Mom forever, but I have a feeling I will balance being a Wife, Mom, and Career Woman all at the same time-- I love chaos so hopefully I can handle it post baby :)

*Q8-  What are your favorite products and indulgences?

A:  Hmmm. . . .I do have a few products.  My favorite lotion is: Johnson & Johnson Cream Baby Oil Lotion.  It comes in a coco butter scent for aloe vera. I also love Vanilla scented candles.  Part of pregnancy is you get a heightened sense of smell, so my big thing this pregnancy has been making sure everything smells fresh- candles, and scented oil plug ins are all over our house.
Indulgences: I now love online shopping. . .EEEKK Pete got me started on that.
Massages are another one of my favs to relax-- now I can only get the maternity ones, but they are still really nice.

*Q9- What are some of your favorite snacks?

A:  I had a very healthy diet prior to getting pregnant so that has carried with me so far:  These are some of my go- to snacks though!
*Greek Yogurt with Fresh Blueberries and Flax Seed Granola
*Banana with Jiff Peanut Butter
*Strawberries and Frozen Grapes
*2% Milk String Cheese and Almonds
*Cheese Itz's
*Celery with Jiff Peanut Butter

*Q10- How much weight have you gained so far & do you still workout?

A: 0!  I lost about 4-5 pounds in the first trimester and as of my last appointment I still had about a pound to go to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight. . .we will see at my 18 week appointment :)
Yes, I still work out about 5 times per week.  My doctor said it would help me with all my cramping especially since my body was already used to me working out prior to getting pregnant.  I definitely think it makes you feel so much better vs. not working out. 

16 Week Stats!

This week lots went on-- we had my Mom's 50th Suprise Party and a trip to Charleston to celebrate!  We had the party at Salsa's and ordered Mom's favorite SAS Cupcakes and enjoyed the Mexican food and entertainment.  Then on Wednesday, we headed down to Charleston for a quick trip of beach time and VS Semi Annual Sale Shopping.   I think Baby M must like the beach because as soon as I sat in my chair I was so tired I passed out.  Usually I make it through the day no problem without feeling totally exausted. 

How Far Along: 16 weeks + 4 days

Size of Baby M: The size of an avocado-- about 5 inches long

Cravings: Hmmm the only think I can think of is I really love Rusty's Deli right now.  I can't have my favorite chef salad from there, but out of no where I love their chix salad sandwich, and usually I wouldnt touch chix salad.

Symptoms: Some slight cramping ( well except for Sat night, that was major) and then just some wierd stomach feelings.  Pete and I thought the baby was moving this week, but I think it is still too early.  My placenta is also in the front, so it might be a little later for me to be able to feel movement since the baby will have to kick harder.  The boobs definitely are getting bigger ( Bonus of being prego) and I am a non stop drinking and peeing machine.

Total Weight Gain: About the same. . .my next appointment is in a week and a half and I am thinking I will be back to 106 at that point.

Best Moment of the Week: Pete and I received the Baby M Reveal Party Invites that we created and they are going out today.  I must say they are so freaking cute!!  The big secret will be revealed on Saturday, July 2nd. . . .for our closests friends to see if it is a he or a she and have a party)

Only a week and half till we know what our little bun is and I can start planning :)

Pics from Mom's 50th Bday Party!

HCM :)

15 Week Stats!!

This week has actually felt pretty normal.  I really feel good and do the normal things I have always done.  I feel super lucky that other than the beginning, the pregnancy really has not been bad at all.  Here is the 15 week update:

How Far Along: 15 weeks + a few days

Size of Baby M: The size of an Apple- about 4 inches long

Cravings:  I like all things healthy these days :) Lots of fruit ( strawberries especially) , salads, definitely some ice cream every now and then, and I heart Peanut Butter and nuts.

Symptoms: Some cramping and definitely some crotch pains ( I was told it was totally normal) Ugggg it is like 100 degrees outside already. . . .HOT

Total Weight Gain: -1 lbs.  I am at about 105ish so only 1 more to go until I reach pre-pregnancy weight!

Things I am starting to miss: Wine nights with my girlfriends.  I still totally hang out and half the time I stay up later then them ( Mandy) so I still have a great time.

Best Moment of the Week: Oohh there were a few this week: Hearing the Heartbeat. .. so far it has been 165 & 148.  Guess Baby M was sleeping for the 148 reading.  I told my boss Shannon about Baby M and she was really excited.  Her 2 little girls called me, it was so cute.  Pete and I came up with a cute invite for the Gender Reveal Party

Only 3 more weeks until the Gender Reveal Party!! I wish I knew so I could start on the nursery :)

HCM :)

The Jury is Still Out on Baby M!! Boy or Girl???? Who Knows

Only a few short weeks until we find out the sex of Baby M!! We are going to have a party for 4th of July/Reveal Party for Baby M for our closest peeps!
Everyone keeps telling me what they think the bun in the oven is:

Lets see what every ones thoughts are so far. .. .
My Fam is still unsure-- except for Kelly, she thinks it is a BOY!
My Dad says he does not want to know what it is- YEAH right that will be hard with the 4 of us chicks being baby crazy
Steph - She definitely thinks it is a GIRL for sure-- she had a dream about it and used her Chinese Gender Chart Prediction.
Mandy- She feels like it is a girl, but that is because I am so girly
Christie- She thinks maybe a Boy just solely because everyone she knows is having a Girl- haha!
Emily- She thinks Girl
Jonathan that I work with- thinks its a Girl!
Jackie- She thinks it is a Girl
Lynn- She said from the moment she saw me that she thinks it is a BOY
Shannon- Her and her 2 daughters both think Girl!
Adam that I work with- GIRL!
Pete- He wants a Boy, but thinks its a girl- haah!

Heather-- today I think it is a boy. . .but yesterday I thought girl so it changes everyday

Whooo will be right??? We will see :)

This was a great weekend- Steph, Sam, & Chloe all came in for a visit.  Chloe is such a good baby and I had so much fun practicing with her.  The boys watched Chloe on Friday night so Steph and I were able to go out for Leslie's Bachelorette Party.  This is definitely the season of weddings and babies galore.  My really good friend Mandy just got engaged this past week, so she came over on Saturday for girls night.  I think it hit me this weekend that times like this will soon be ending-- I guess I should enjoy the freedom now!!
I definitely can't wait to be a Mom, and to see Pete be a Dad.  I am surprised how I have not been more emotional during this pregnancy ( as I heard most people are) but I think my heart will melt when I see Pete with the baby for the first time.  I really really can't wait to find out what Baby M is so I can start on the nursery.  This week up on the agenda is new SUV for Baby M, and us figuring out the house situation.  One thing I have noticed during pregnancy is I feel so unable to make a final decision.  I have to think about everything in a 10 year span as it is not just about Pete and I anymore!  We have to go round and round with every major decision now, whereas before we were quick to do things.
Check out the pics below from this weekend

                                    She is the cutest!!

Chloe with Uncle Pete- Hanging Out!

                    2 BFF's!!

Here is the Chinese Gender Chart that Stephanie swears by. . . .I'm not banking on decorating a nursery based on these results, but I think it is fun to entertain.  You look at the age of the Mom when she got pregnant and the month of conception. . . so for me its 27 & March

Mother's Chinese Age At Time Of Conception

Month of Conception

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

January

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

G

February

B

G

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

G

G

G

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

March

G

B

G

G

B

G

B

B

B

G

B

G

G

B

B

B

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

G

B

April

B

G

B

G

G

B

B

G

G

B

G

G

G

G

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

B

B

G

B

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B

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May

B

G

B

G

B

B

G

G

G

G

G

B

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G

G

G

G

B

G

B

B

G

B

G

B

B

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June

B

B

B

G

G

G

B

B

B

G

G

B

G

G

G

G

G

G

G

B

G

G

B

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B

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B

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July

B

B

B

G

G

B

B

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G

B

B

B

G

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G

G

G

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G

B

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August

B

B

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G

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B

B

B

B

B

G

G

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B

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B

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September

B

B

B

G

G

B

G

B

G

B

B

B

G

G

G

G

G

G

B

G

B

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B

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October

B

B

G

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B

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B

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B

B

G

G

G

G

G

G

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B

B

G

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November

B

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B

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December

B

G

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G

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B

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B

G

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B