My Postpartum Body

Postpartum life is very real. Very real. So much goes into it that you aren't prepared for or don't think about. One of those things is returning to your pre-baby body (which honestly will probably never 100% happen). After having two pregnancies, I can say that recovery definitely was different. While I wouldn't say I had major struggles, the second go-round was not as easy as the first. For my own memory, and to share the realities of getting your body back, I decided to document the few months after Lincoln was born to see the changes that were happening.

12 hours after delivery

I was obviously still rocking a major bump at this point, but it is also crazy how small I felt now that the baby was in my arms and not in my belly. Obviously, I still had a solid 20 pounds or so to go.

3 days postpartum

My belly really did a lot of shrinking in the few days after Lincoln was born. I am going to credit a lot of that to breastfeeding. Those afterpains were unreal you guys, I honestly felt more discomfort with the pains during nursing than I did from any of my contractions during labor (of course, my labor was pretty darn easy). I would actually brace the sides of the bed every time I fed him for about a week because I knew they were coming, and I couldn't talk when I had them. They were so painful, but I know that nursing definitely helped speed up the process of getting my uterus back down towards its normal size much more quickly. What this picture doesn't show is how soft, deflated, and alien a belly feels three days after baby. It may be smaller, but things are definitely still stretched out and it feels like a deflated beach ball.

11 days postpartum

There was a little bit of shrinking in the next week or so after delivery, and I was able to squeeze into some of my normal jeans for Lincoln's newborn pictures. They were definitely a bit snug, but they buttoned and I could wear them without feeling like I couldn't breath, so that did a lot for helping me feel a bit more 'normal'! Of course, I should note that the jeans I was squeezing into were my very stretchy jeans! I definitely wasn't rocking anything skin tight or structured! At this point though, I was probably 18-20 pounds above pre-pregnancy weight.

2 weeks postpartum

This is the point where I think the post-baby pooch really became less evident. There was still definitely some 'pooch' going on, but not where you would call it a post baby bump. Unfortunately, it starting feeling more like a 'gut' to me at this point. Clothes continued to fit more normally, and I was able to start wearing my favorite jean shorts again. Which was perfect timing as the summer weather started to arrive. I also started going on lots of walks and easing my way back into short runs. *I know doctors say to not exercise for six weeks after delivery, but the minute I felt discomfort I always stopped.

3 weeks postpartum (and a darling photobomber who wanted to go outside NOW)

This is the point where some frustration set in. From about 1-3 weeks post baby, I really seemed stuck at 13-15 pounds above pre-pregnancy weight. I am breastfeeding, which makes it challenging because sometimes the hunger is UNREAL, but I also hit the trail mixes (my ultimate weakness) during snack time a little hard. So, at that point while I still definitely kept eating to keep my supply up, I did consciously start working to stick to as healthy of foods as possible.

4 Weeks Postpartum

Up about 13 pounds from pre-pregnancy weight. I started feeling closer to normal in my clothing. In the photo above I am wearing the favorite jean shorts that I mentioned, and they were definitely feeling more comfortable than they were a week or two prior. I also wore a pencil skirt one day for the interview for my new job, and it felt great that I was able to get into it, but that was also major motivation to get all the way back to normal, because even though it 'fit', it didn't fit how I am used to!

5 weeks postpartum

Up 10 pounds. This was the week where I got within 10 pounds of my pre-pregnancy weight, and it felt amazing. Having a goal in the single versus double digits was huge, and really motivated me to keep it up. When I could manage on leave, I would sneak away for runs at the gym. I also went on a 3 mile walk nearly every day!

Right after the magical moment the scale was only 9 pounds away from pre-pregnancy weight. I was so happy!

6 weeks postpartum

Up about 7 pounds at my doctors appointment. At my 6 week appointment with Jackson I only had 3 pounds to go, but I also gained 5 or so more pounds this pregnancy so I had to try really hard some days to give myself grace. I had my brother in law's wedding, at it felt amazing to put on a dress, have my sister do my makeup, and feel pretty. The dress I wore was a jersey material, the prettiest yellow color, and truly the most comfortable dress I have ever worn, and was also SO easy to pull the straps down when I had to run off to the hotel room to pump every few hours. I think it is so important after a baby to dress in what makes you feel good, rather than what you think you 'should' be wearing at any given point in time.

8 weeks postpartum

Up 5 pounds. As I remember with Jackson, there seem to be points where you kind of 'stick'. The weight doesn't necessarily come off steadily. I sat and sat around 15 pounds above pre-pregnancy weight, and then pretty quickly dropped to 10 pounds. Then, I felt like I sat there for a bit and then dropped to 5 pounds above PPW. This may very well be related to increases in how much baby is eating, as every ounce of breast milk equates to 20 calories burned. So, if baby has a growth spurt and is eating 10 more ounces a day, that's burning an extra 200 calories a day! My supply really took off around 5-6 weeks too, where to remain comfortable I had to pump twice a day, ON TOP of Lincoln exclusively breastfeeding.

9 weeks postpartum

Up 4 pounds. At this point I was happy with every pound of progress even if it was a week at a time!

10 weeks postpartum

Up 3 pounds. I basically was 'back to normal' at this point. Of course I wanted to shake those last few pounds, but I was really wearing all of my normal clothing, doing all of my normal activities, and felt like myself.

The picture above is at 15 weeks post-partum, and the day I stepped on the scale to finally seeing myself at, and in fact about a pound below my pre-pregnancy weight. I really have sat at that same place since (I am about 19 weeks post-partum now). It took a little bit longer to get there this time, but I did grow am almost 9 pound baby and am amazed at what my body can do!
At this point, I would love to just really get back into shape. The weight comes off, but the toning and endurance don't happen on their own. One day, soon I hope, I will have a bit more flexibility and independence to sneak to the gym or even do some at home workouts in the garage. At this season in life though, I have a precious and busy toddler and a baby that very much so loves to have my attention, so I am putting my babies first and getting my exercise in the form of walks and wrestling instead of running and weights. It's a struggle some days, but I am ultimately just thankful for two amazing boys and good health!


I would love to hear how moms with demanding babies (who never let you set them down) are able to get in toning exercises!? I would love to hear your advice!


Linking up with Our Pretty Little Girls today.

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Bumpdate: 38 Weeks

We are really in the home stretch! Two weeks or less (hopefully not more!) until we meet our newest little man. This week has definitely had me thinking labor is going to come on sooner rather than later. Just yesterday, two coworkers separately told me that I really looked like I had dropped, and I have been feeling wonderful crampiness and back pain. Oh, the joys ;-) This is all new territory to me, as going into labor the normal way is much different than having your water break before all of the other signs and symptoms kick in. Fingers crossed we stay comfortable, and baby stays as healthy as possible. Aside from that, he will come when he is ready :-)

How far along? 37 weeks, 6 days.

Gender: Boy, can't wait to finally meet the little guy!

Total weight gain: 33 pounds.

Maternity clothes? Yep, literally all about comfort at this point.

Stretch marks? I believe it is still just the one questionable little bugger. I have limited visual access to half of my body as of late though, so who knows for sure ;-)

Belly button in or out: Slightly out on top, in/flat on the bottom

Sleep: I have been waking up more frequently, around 2-3am, and have a hard time falling back asleep. Oh well, that will sound like a DREAM  a few weeks from now ;-)

Exercise: Done running. WAH. Going on lots of walks though, especially with the gorgeous weather this past week! I load up the little guy in the jogging stroller, and with the hills I am pretty sure I am still getting in a good workout, that thing is heavy!

Best moment this week: Enjoying the beautiful spring weather! Temps in the 60's and 70's is just dreamy after a Minnesota winter. No one appreciates the season of spring more than a midwesterner, I am positive.

Miss Anything? Being comfortable in general. Going on a walk without needing to pee after five minutes. And is it bad to request a cold fruity wine cooler while still in the hospital? I am so ready for a summer cocktail!

Movement: Still lots of movement going on, this little one is busy! Contrary to when I was pregnant with Jackson, I notice this guy being active even when I am up and moving around. Jackson was lulled to sleep when I was active so I most often felt him move at night. This little guy still moves plenty at night, but he is really just active all the time it seems!

Food cravings: Fruity, fruity, fruity. Anything fruity. Sweet and tart is way higher on my list lately than chocolate, which is crazy for me. Still fizzy drinks. It makes sense why I want a Mike's Hard Lemonade so badly I guess! And not sure if it is because I can't stomach huge meals or because Jackson has once again been difficult with sleep this week, but middle of the night snacking has been in full force this week; I wake up STARVING!! Good thing I have been keeping a stash of lemon Oreos on hand.

Symptoms: Lower back pain and braxton hicks.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope!

Labor Signs: The good old 'bloody show' that I remember scratching my head at when referenced on the movie 'Knocked Up' totally happened to, which is part of what is making me thinking baby might be here sooner than later. With that, more cramping and contractions happening, but nothing I have been able to time yet.

Wedding rings on or off? On, we will see if they stay on through the end, my swelling is super minimal, but I definitely notice it some days.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy; after a long winter we are just finally making PROGRESS in so many areas and I have all the heart eyes when I think about all of the wonderful changes that are right around the corner for our family! 
Looking Forward To: Meeting this little guy! I have finally reached the point where if he is born, I am ready (at least as ready as I am going to be!), but still not in a huge rush. And as long as baby is still baking away, I am excited to celebrate my future sister in law at her bridal shower on Saturday, and most likely demand food in honor of Mother's Day on Sunday! :-) 

Linking up with Annie and Natalie for Thoughts on Thursday today!

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Bumpdate: 37 Weeks and Friday Favorites

Mixing up my 'Five on Friday' with the good old bumpdate this week. We are really getting down to the wire on this pregnancy!

1. Bumpdate
WOOHOO! We made it to full term. And yes, I know that 'full term' is most recently classified as 39 weeks, baby should keep baking as long as possible, etc. for all of you nay-sayers out there ;-) BUT, my hospital holds 37 weeks as the mark where a baby is no longer considered 'premature'. Jackson was premature by five days, and while he was perfectly healthy, this did result in him getting poked with a needle a few more times than he would have otherwise needed. So, I am celebrating hitting 37 weeks if only for the fact that, assuming all else goes well, baby boy won't need any extra glucose test pricks to his precious little feet :-) Of course, he is welcome to hang out for the next few weeks, I really don't mind. I am technically in new territory here as I didn't make it this far with Jackson, so I am curious to see how much more uncomfortable this final month of pregnancy truly is!

How far along? 37 weeks

Gender: A baby boy, who is getting squishier by the minute :-)

Total weight gain: 31 pounds

Maternity clothes? Yes, but unless the weather absolutely does not permit, I am rocking maxi dresses and skirts from here on out.

Stretch marks? I still think there is that one tiny one between my belly button and piercing hole, it it is a small little circle and just looks kind of odd. I know I have preached it before, but the Baby Belly Bar is the absolute best. It goes on thick but isn't sticky, and I will put it on at night and seriously still can feel it on my skin 24 hours later. It has saved me from dealing with itchy skin for sure!

Belly button in or out: I would definitely say flat. 

Sleep: Decent. I wouldn't say it has been as good as last week, but not terrible either.

Exercise: I am saying with quite a bit of certainty that I went for my last official run of my pregnancy last Friday. My hips and lower back were not feeling good at all after the fact, and by Friday evening it was seriously a chore just to lift my legs and hips to put on a pair of pants. Still doing arm workouts and going on as many walks as possible, though! And happy to report that the walking doesn't result in any hip or back pain!

Best moment this week: Passing 36 weeks 2 days, which means I officially made it further this pregnancy than I did my last! Did I spend a good chunk of Sunday morning feeling deja vu and praying my water didn't break? Um, yes...

Miss Anything? Laying on my back without getting dizzy. Not feeling super full after a few bites of food. And being able to keep up with Jax; sometimes it is impossible to say no to him and I lift him or do things that I realize pretty quickly I simply cannot do for the next few weeks.

Movement: Still lots, especially at night.

Food cravings: Anything sweet. All of the fruit I can get my hands on. And anything cold and fizzy. Yesterday at a work seminar they had Diet Dr. Pepper and oh my goodness, did that hit the spot!

Symptoms: Braxton hicks, which have definitely gotten more and more frequent, even to the point where I have started timing them. Still some lower back pain. Occasional crampiness.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Not really!

Labor Signs: Not that I am aware of! Braxton hicks are definitely picking up, but nothing painful yet, just uncomfortable.

Wedding rings on or off? On, it really seems to depend on the day in terms of if I feel swelling or not. I notice on rainy and humid days it fits a bit tighter, but I haven't had any real troubles getting it on/off.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy, still just trying to get as ahead as possible on work/home things so we are ready for baby's arrival! 
Looking Forward To: My doctor's appointment today. I was at 1cm and 50% effaced last week, so I am just curious to see if I have progressed at all!  

2. Old Navy is killing it, as per the usual, with their new summer line. I shared my favorites yesterday for the perfect casual, go-to outfit. How perfect is this tank top!? And you can never go wrong with a pair of denim cutoffs.

 3. I am due for a Jackson update sometime soon here I suppose, but he still just isn't where he technically 'should' be for his speech. However, this week he has really started repeating things, including 'OH', 'pat pat', and letters, particularly 'T' and 'G'. It is exciting to see him finally taking an interest in repeating what we are saying and communicating through words. We have called him, more than once, our 'selective listener', and I am so happy he is finally choosing to chat a bit more!

4. I have started trying out lipsticks more in the past year or so, but more often than not I still feel a bit out of my element. I found this shade recently and it is perfect! It goes on smooth, gives my lips a pop of color, yet doesn't feel like I am wearing a lipstick that you can see across the room. And you really cannot beat the price!

5. When I am not focusing on my pregnancy and debating whether or not every sign and symptom is an indication of labor starting, I am thinking about our house! I shared where we are currently at with our building process, and even since then we have had more going on! I am trying not to get overly optimistic, but for where we are at currently, things are moving along well and moving is getting closer and closer by the day! My in-laws are great and I love them dearly, but I cannot put into words how excited I am to have my OWN HOUSE again! 

Five on Friday // Oh Hey Friday! // Friday Favorites // Friday Favorites

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Bumpdate: 36 Weeks and Full Circle

This blog post really feels like coming full circle to me. To those of you that have been reading since the beginning, you may recall that I started blogging shortly before Jackson was born. My first real post was my 36 week bumpdate. Jackson was born the following day. So, needless to say, I have been feeling slightly paranoid this entire week, and will feel so relieved once this Sunday has come and gone and baby is still safely baking away. While having a 36 weeker showed me that they can be born perfectly healthy with zero complications (which I am so incredibly thankful for every day), I also have a laundry list of things that I still need to get done and I am so NOT mentally prepared for our little guy quite yet. Between wrapping things up at work, getting as much accomplished for our house as possible, and hoping to have a maternity leave that doesn't end until after Jackson's 2nd birthday (which is when he is technically able to start at daycare based on their regulations), I really want this baby to stay put! I have joked that me being so paranoid will probably result in this little guy going a solid week overdue! Despite my discomforts, I would be totally okay with that :-) 

Despite being a believer in jinxing things, I thought it would be a little bit fun to recreate that first post for this blog. Don't even ask me how emotional I got when I compared pictures and realized that adorable, smiling little boy wearing Darth Vader jammies in the middle picture is what made up my baby bump in the bottom picture. Cue the crying emoji face. Time is such a thief, and I cannot believe that I will have another little man to squish and love up on in the coming month!

Me and Baby Boy #2

Me and my darling, precious Baby Boy #1 who loves taking bumpdate photos with his mama

Me and Baby Boy #1, with our very first chalkboard. Let's also take a moment to acknowledge the wonder a little bit of color can do, and just how 'Minnesota White' we truly get here in the winter! This mama cannot wait to get a little bit of a tan!

Baby Boy #1, all of 24 hours after we took our bumpdate photo

 

How far along? 36 weeks

Gender: Boy

Total weight gain: My scale is saying 29 pounds

Maternity clothes? Lots of maxi dress, maxi skirts, and yoga pants, like always. Definitely not investing in a single item that is maternity for the rest of this pregnancy, so whatever I have will have to do!

Stretch marks? I THINK there may be a tiny little one, between my belly button and where my old belly piercing hole is..it's actually a spot that when I am not pregnant is technically probably 'inside' my belly button, so I really can't tell for sure, it's one of those where I look at it from twenty different angles trying to figure out..

Belly button in or out: Out/flat on top, just barely in on the bottom. It doesn't poke out like the typical pregnancy belly button, but it is definitely just strange!

Sleep: Praise the Lord hallelujah Jackson has been staying in his bed almost every night for the past week until 5am or so, and if it is any indication of how sleep deprived I am from the past two years, 2 or 3 of those nights I did not wake up to pee. Not once. I have honestly had my first full night's sleep the past few days in as long as I can remember, and am actually feeling more tired! I think my body finally recognized what it needs and what it has been missing ;-)

Exercise: Mostly just walks this week. I am hoping if I feel up to it to maybe sneak in a run on the treadmill today, but we will see. So glad to be able to get outside though and enjoy a little exercise with my little guy on our walks.

Best moment this week: SLEEPING. You just never realize how much you will appreciate sleeping through the entire night until you never, ever, ever get to do it.

Miss Anything? My normal clothes. Especially as things are warming up, I so badly want to wear some of my cute t-shirts and tank tops, and I am dying to throw on my favorite jean shorts! And as always, I am counting down to when I get to enjoy a Mike's Hard Lemonade.

Movement: Yes, definitely more rolling, and the 'whole belly shaking' that is so creepy to watch. I have had multiple instances where he jabs super low and up in my ribs at the same time, which I assume means he must be getting in a good stretch, OR trying to bust out. Those ones take my breath away!

Food cravings: Still craving sugary cereals. Eating apples by the dozen. And give me all the Lemon Oreos.

Symptoms: Lower back pain. Just last night, I started having quite a few Braxton Hicks contractions too, nothing painful or alarming, but definitely way more frequent, about every ten minutes or so..eager to see if that means anything has changed in terms of dilation at my appointment tomorrow. Happy to say insomnia is totally not on the list this week, though!

Anything making you queasy or sick: I have just had random bouts of nausea here and there for the past week or so. I think it is the worst if I go too long without eating or don't get enough protein. Nothing that has been lasting long or giving me too much trouble.

Labor Signs: Nope, and hoping with everything I have to do we keep it that way!

Wedding rings on or off? On. Most days I really don't feel like I am swollen at all, although some days my fingers are a bit puffier than others.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy this week, but a bit stressed out realizing how many things I need to try and get wrapped up at work before I go out on leave! 
Looking Forward To: Checking in on baby today, picking out a whole bunch of things for our house this afternoon, and seeing our siding on our house hopefully go up in the next week or so! 

Five on Friday // Oh Hey Friday! // Friday Favorites // Friday Favorites

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Bumpdate: 35 Weeks

Only five weeks to go! I know, I know, I sound like a broken record, but I cannot believe how close we are getting to the end of this pregnancy. Realistically (and hopefully!) we have a solid month to go, but after my first go-around with pregnancy, I am having slight moments of panic when I realize I was only ONE WEEK away from meeting baby at this point when I was expecting Jackson. My bag and baby's bag are both packed and ready to go. My bag is even stocked with snacks and Powerades for dad (how nice am I?), pants, bobby pins, and a spare toothbrush. I feel so good knowing I was able to get all of that planning done and know I will have a well stocked bag no matter when baby boy decides to arrive. With that being said, we have a house to build, and for purely selfish reasons I am begging this little guy to stay put right up until May 20th! 

How far along? 35 Weeks

Gender: Still a boy, as far as I know!

Total weight gain: 28 pounds at my appointment last week..darn Fruity Pebbles are throwing off my game.

Maternity clothes? Yes, but now that we FINALLY have some spring weather this week, I am back to busting out the flowy dresses and feeling ten times more comfortable!

Stretch marks? Not yet, but I am officially about as big as I was when I delivered Jackson the last time, so from here on out I am entering uncharted territory for size..we shall see.

Belly button in or out: Flat, with a slight edge towards still being in. Pretty sure that thing is going to pop any day here.

Sleep: Still average at best. I did have a pretty great night of sleep this week, only getting up to use the bathroom once, and I was out like a light until 2:30am when Jackson woke us up. Is it sad that that constitutes a good night's sleep?..

Exercise: Still trucking along..runs 2, maybe 3 times a week, but going slower. And finally getting out to enjoy some walks now that the weather is behaving!

Best moment this week: Just simply enjoying a 60 degree day! After a few weeks of constant snow flurries, wet, damp weather, and needing to be back in winter clothes, a little bit of sunshine and warmth on bare skin does the soul SO much good.

Miss Anything? Sleep. Being comfortable. And I am just really in the mood for a cocktail to toast spring finally arriving.

Movement: Yes, still in the upper right side, I can tell it is getting cramped in there because it is less frequent big movements now, the days of the little jabs are long gone.

Food cravings: Give me ALL THE CEREAL. I am still craving Fruity Pebbles, but really any cereal will do. I had a huge bowl of Raisin Brain this week, and that strangely was way more satisfying after dinner than ice cream or a brownie. And, I have been going through apples like it is my job, I cannot get enough.

Symptoms: Insomnia, lower back pain, not sure if it is a symptom but holy BOOBS do they hurt..pretty frequent Braxton hicks in the last few days especially.

Anything making you queasy or sick: For whatever reason when I drank a glass of water one morning this week I got super nauseous, but it passed quickly, and I am back to drinking water by the gallon.

Labor Signs: No, and hoping it stays that way. I have SO many reasons to want this baby to stay in as long as possible, and while I am ready to be more comfortable, I really truly am hoping I can go all the way to our due date!

Wedding rings on or off? On. I definitely notice a difference in how tight it gets depending on what I eat and if I have had enough water, so that is good motivation to lay off the salt!

Happy or Moody most of the time: Pretty happy this week!
Looking Forward To? We close on our construction loan today, and will break ground in the days following! This is truly like the day you hope and plan for forever, and never think will actually arrive (so kind of like having a baby?) Let's build us a house!!! 

Linking up with Annie and Natalie for Thoughts on Thursday today!

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Bumpdate: 34 Weeks

Happy Friday ladies! Another week down, putting us that much closer to meeting our little guy. I am still hoping he doesn't come any sooner than he needs to, though. While I found myself secretly hoping for a earlier rather than late delivery the first time around, this time I really would be content if this guy stayed in all the way up through his due date! Being uncomfortable a little bit longer will be totally worth it if it means being able to move into our new house while I am still on maternity leave! I am linking up with my favorite ladies today for some Friday fun, check out the links at the bottom of this post for more info!

Kimono (sold out, similar here)// Top // Tank // Leggings

How far along? 34 Weeks

Gender: Baby boy

Total weight gain: 27-28 pounds.

Maternity clothes? Mostly still getting by with these tank tops, these leggings, and these sweaters. These cold and wet past few weeks need to end so I can get comfortable in my dresses and skirts!!

Stretch marks? Not yet.

Belly button in or out: Pretty darn flat. Depending on the day, the top part is just barely starting to stick out..so weird!

Sleep: Still not so great. And still thanks to my first child. Will I ever sleep again!?

Exercise: Yes. Still squeezing in runs or walks about 3 days a week. Definitely have modified my runs though, cutting back from 3 miles to more like 2, and walking as much as I can to substitute. Also, still going strong with my arm workouts, let's see if I can get those babies toned up in time for tank top season!

Best moment this week: Getting our home appraisal back and setting a closing date! We will officially be starting construction SOOO soon!

Miss Anything? Breathing normally. Sleeping comfortably on my back. Just feeling normal, I hate feeling 'limited' and unable to do things physically!

Movement: Lots, as always up under my right ribs. I spend a lot of time pushing little knees and feet back in and away from my ribcage.

Food cravings: This week, I have been all about the Fruity Pebbles! I could literally put down an entire box in one serving, however I have refrained from doing so. As always, nothing beats a cold, fizzy Diet Coke.

Symptoms: Lower back pain and pelvic pressure. New in the last week or so, for the first time in either of my pregnancies, I have been getting very lightheaded when lying flat on my back. Since it has never been an issue I seriously don't even think about it, until all of the sudden I just feel funny and realize I definitely need to reposition to one of my sides.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope!

Labor Signs: No. I was checked at my appointment this week, baby is still high and no dilation happening yet at all, which is good to hear. While I am pretty over being pregnant, with our whole moving situation, I want this little guy to stay put as long as possible!

Wedding rings on or off? On, from what I can tell I don't have too much swelling happening.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Just kind of 'eh' this week. It is April, it has been wet and cold and even a little snowy, and I am just ready for some sunshine and enjoying being outside! 
Looking Forward To: I know it should be all about the baby in this section, but let's be real, we are about to start building our house! I am pretty sure I am going to cry when I first see the hole being dug.

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Friday Favorites and 33 Weeks!

Happy happy Friday, ladies! I am so glad to have made it through the work week; after a few long days again, I will be working a few hours this morning and then FINALLY treating myself to a massage! I have seriously been in need of a massage for months, and this is long overdue. Excited is probably an understatement as to how I am feeling ;-) Scroll below for this week's bumpdate, but I had a few Friday Favorites, and just could not pass up participating today!

1. These studs! My sister about died when my mom treated her to the infamous Kate Spade glitter studs for Easter this year. They came back in stock at Nordstrom, but wouldn't you know it they are ALREADY sold out. These, however, are a bit cheaper and a bit smaller, and I got them in silver. They look just like them but are nice on a day when you want to wear something a bit smaller and more casual!

2. These jean shorts are totally on my radar for this summer. I bought them in a medium wash last year, and literally wore them every time they were clean. You can't beat the price, and Target is constantly running sales/Cartwheel offers, so it is a safe bet you will be able to scoop these up for $15 or so. They are comfortable and the perfect length, I highly recommend!

3. Earlier this week, I shared what is in my hospital bag and feel so much better having things a bit more organized. You guys, we are sitting around 50 days from D.DAY, I can't even believe it!

4. I am so excited that next week me and Jenn from Crown Me In Glitter will be hosting our first linkup on Tuesday! It is called 'Talk About It Tuesday', and it is just that. Something bugging you? Talk about it. Did your child do something cute or funny? Talk about it. Have a huge sale you stumbled across and have to share? Talk about it! Whatever is at the forefront of your mind, we want to hear it! We are super excited and think this will be a fun little linkup for one of those random days of the week where sometimes writing inspiration can lag, am I right?! Grab our image below and join us Tuesday, April 5th!

5. I figured my number 5 could be my bumpdate, because why not? :-) Not many of these left before little guy is here with us. I for one am getting more and more ready; the back pain and insomnia at this point are no joke!

Dress (old by Hatley)

How far along? 33 Weeks

Gender: Boy

Total weight gain: 25+ as of my appointment last week. Someone hide the Easter candy, please!

Maternity clothes? Still a good mix, mostly normal clothing

Stretch marks? Not yet

Belly button in or out: In, but flatter still than it was a week ago

Sleep: Oh still terrible. I have just accepted this one as my fate for eternity..

Exercise: Yes, but thinking I may have to wave the white flag and call it quits with my running. I still feel great while running, but the lower back pain in the past week or two has been pretty bad, and as much as I LOVE my workouts, I can't justify potentially doing harm. I have decided to do more strength training to compensate though, so hopefully despite saying goodbye to my runs I can tone up my arms a bit! And let's be real, I may cheat and still run..#addict

Best moment this week: Loved celebrating Easter with my little guy, even though he still totally doesn't get the whole 'holiday' thing.

Miss Anything? Sleep, being comfortable, and why do I want a beer so badly!?

Movement: Lots, still all in my upper right side. I don't know what's wrong with my left side, but baby won't go over there for anything!

Food cravings: Does Easter candy count as a craving? My parents gave me a bag of Reese's eggs, and the bag may pretty much be gone already. Seriously, someone needs to take my candy away.

Symptoms: Insomnia, pretty bad lower back pain, fatigue.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Bras are not high on my list of favorite things right now. I really need to invest in a few nursing bras that I can just start wearing now, because my current bras are reaching the point of making me feel claustrophobic.

Labor Signs: Nope, but definitely watching out and monitoring the lower back pain.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy, so much to do lately it is all I can do to keep positive and get excited about what's in store for us the next few months! 
Looking Forward To: Breaking ground on our house! It is still 2-3 weeks out, but it is all I can think about and I am SO EXCITED! 

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Bumpdate: 32 Weeks

We are 4/5 done, 8 months along, or 56 days from our due date. But who is counting, right? ;-) While I am beginning to reach that point of being ready to be 'done', we also have SO much to do in the coming months that I sometimes forget how soon our family is going to be changing into something new. Going as close to full term as possible also increases the possibility that I will still be on maternity leave when the day comes to move into our new house, and I love the idea of having the opportunity to get settled and organize while having a week or two off of work. Of course all of that is out of my hands, but the OCD planner in me can organize and plan anyway, right?!

 

The most adorable big brother crashed this week's bumpdate!

Striped Top

How far along? 32 weeks

Gender: little man

Total weight gain: official weigh in at my appointment today, but I think I am at about 25-26 pounds according to the bathroom scale. Yikes! I am still totally on track to be within the healthy range for weight gain, but some weeks it feels like those pounds tack on no matter how healthy I eat or how active I am!

Maternity clothes? Yes, but still lots of regular clothes. A nice little mix focused mostly on what is most comfortable!

Stretch marks? None yet.

Belly button in or out: In, but getting closer and closer to being flat

Sleep: Bad, bad, bad. Insomnia and Jackson's sleep habits are still totally kicking my butt. I keep hoping that he can get onto SOME sort of schedule before the baby is born, because if it continues as it is with the addition of a newborn, I literally will not. sleep. ever. again.

Exercise: Still running! The bump is still manageable and I am comfortable when I run, which makes me feel very lucky.

Best moment this week: Well, we bought our kitchen appliances for our new house! And I never thought a refrigerator would make me so happy. I predict I will stand in front of it just admiring all of the space when we move.

Miss Anything? Beer, a nice cold malibu diet, and sleep.

Movement: Lots, but I feel like he might be slowing down a bit. Starting to transition from lots of little jabs and kicks to less frequent, big rolls and movements.

Food cravings: Anything with sugar, fruits, still diet pepsi. No major cravings lately, though.

Symptoms: Insomnia, a little bit of lower back pain, some pelvic pressure. I have also noticed if I lay flat on my back I am starting to get light headed and need to re-position. That never really happened with my first pregnancy, so it is an adjustment feeling like laying on my back isn't an option!

Anything making you queasy or sick: A little bit if I lay on my back.

Labor Signs: Nope, definitely lots of braxton hicks happening though.

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: In the middle this week. SOO tired and feeling antsy in general this week.
Looking Forward To: Easter this weekend! I am thinking we need to put together an Easter Egg hunt for Jackson, and I can't wait to eat some good food, enjoy church, and just relax. 

If you haven't yet, today is the final day to enter my giveaway for a $75 gift card to PinkBlush! They carry both maternity and non-maternity items, so all ladies should totally enter! Winner will be announced on Monday!

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Bumpdate: 31 Weeks

Happy Thursday ladies! Just like that, another week down, and we are that much closer to meeting our second baby boy. In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, I got a little matchy-matchy for this week's photo. I can't drink green beer, and my waistline really doesn't need lucky charm bars (as much as I want them), so this is about as much as this 0% Irish girl gets into the holiday spirit! 

Dress (old, similar styles here and here)

How far along? 31 Weeks

Gender: Baby boy!

Total weight gain: Still haven't stepped on a scale, will do that again next Friday! So from my last appointment, 21+, probably 23-24.

Maternity clothes? Still mostly getting by with the stretchy section of my regular wardrobe.

Stretch marks? Not yet! Using my baby belly bar every single day.

Belly button in or out: In but getting more flat by the day

Sleep: Terrible. Insomnia has kicked in full force, and Jackson just hates sleeping if he isn't laying on top of me or trying to eat my hair (gross, I know).

Exercise: Yep! Still running and feeling good.

Best moment this week: Best and scariest moment was officially signing off on our builder, kicking off our home building process! Now fingers crossed everything with the bank goes through as quickly as possible!

Miss Anything? This past week I have really been craving a cold, fruit cocktail. And sleep, as per usual.

Movement: Lots of little feet pushing out on my right side, pretty much at all times!

Food cravings: Brownies, fruit, fizzy drinks, cold and fresh foods have been good lately!

Symptoms: Insomnia, braxton hicks, pelvic pressure, leg cramps, and feeling some swelling this week. Mostly this is noticeable only because I get paranoid if my wedding ring feels even remotely tight!

Anything making you queasy or sick: Riding on a coach bus to a work event. I may have rode home with a coworker who drove seperately..I get so carsick SO easy!

Labor Signs: No, but definitely staying as in tune as possible with pelvic pressure..I have had way more this entire pregnancy than I did the first time, so I am trying to be careful to know when to rest and take it down a notch.

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy this week, lots of exciting stuff happening! 
Looking forward to: This one is probably going to get repetitive, but getting to make fun decisions for our house! Mama can't wait to have a new refrigerator!

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