Crunch Time

36 weeks and counting! I CAN NOT believe we only have 4 more weeks and BABY will be here :) We had a shower at our church this past weekend and got a lot more stuff that we needed!! A lot of diapers, gift cards, etc. It's so much fun planning for him to get here! It was a nice quiet shower with our family and church friends, it was great.

We had our 36 weeks check up at the DR. yesterday and was able to get an ultrasound! She said he was measuring right on track and was looking to weigh in at this point around 6lbs 5oz which is normal BUT we all know he will continue to grow in the next few weeks and only be bigger! His heartbeat was 140 and the ultrasound shows he has chubby cheeks! We couldn't tell much, he kept moving and yawning but as long as his measurements were good then I can wait a few more weeks to see what he looks like. The DR. also said I was dialated 2 maybe 3 cms. He had no concerns about me being on my feet or anything, he only told me to continue to take things easy as I have been. My BP, weight and everything was still good too so I am thankful for that!

We went and met with the pediatrician we decided to use for BABY. He was very informative and knew what he was talking about. I think we both were very comfortable with him and everything so it's nice knowing you feel safe with your DR.

We have been continuing with our lamaze classes and I think we have learned a lot. We are in there with a few people we know and have gotten to know so it is nice to relate to other women and men who are in the same position we are at this moment.

Next week we go pre-register at the hospital and get everything there ready for our arrival and the following day we have another appointment with the DR :)

Tonight - We are going tonight to Babies R US to finish shopping and get everything we still need (which is not a lot thanks to our family and friends!!). It seems like now it's crunch time and we have all these appointments and things to do before he gets here I can only imagine how crazy life will be when he gets here BUT I know we are both ready!

Photo Op

Matt has borrowed his parents new camera to take some pictures. Here are a few at 34 weeks :)

Just Breathe...

I'm a little behind blogging; sorry! But anyways, we went to the DR. for our 33 weeks check up last Tuesday on the 4th. BABY's heartbeat was strong and he was measuring "perfect" the Dr. told us. My blood pressure and sugar was good too so that's good news as well. Weight is now at 27lbs total, no concerns were there either from DR. It was a good visit and Matt & I both love anytime we can hear that heartbeat :) Next appointment isn't until 3 weeks out; May 25th. The DR. wanted me to get back on track with the weeks and appointments since I have been off with my weeks when going. Next appointment we will get an ultrasound to see the position of the BABY and make sure everything is good!

Lamaze classes started on the 4th as well. Matt went and bought me new pillows with blue pillow cases for a BOY :) He also got me a present (Vera Bradley flip flops) to wear to class. We didn't do much in the first class, we went over the history of lamaze and how it will benefit us with labor and everything. We did do some breathing exercises which were neat; Matt and I played around all weekend breathing and practicing "just breating and relaxing". Our last class won't end until 5 days before our due date so hopefully we will get to end the classes and BABY won't come until his due date or a few days after.

I know I talk about this at every post but as we get closer and closer to him being here I absolutely can't wait for him to be here but I am also sad that my FIRST pregnancy will be over. I love feeling him kick, squirm and watching my belly grow. I think I am sad because I know he will be here just a few weeks old and then I will blink my eyes and he will be 5 and starting school. Time goes by so quickly it seems like.

We also had our first BABY SHOWER the 1st of May. My mom, sister, Matt's mom and my friend Megan we're great planners and host :) It was all about monkeys and we had such a great time seeing friends and family and getting to catch up. BABY got so many things!!! After putting everything up we still need quite a bit of stuff but this shower helped us out so much, I couldn't be more thankful to everybody who gave us something!

So - Just a little update on everything. Here are a picture of Matt & I from the shower last week and my niece Tori at her recital; she already loves him so much!

Growing right along..

We had a Dr. appointment last Wed, the 21st. The appointment went well and we heard everything we wanted too, especially that great heartbeat of his going strong; 145 BPM. My belly is right on track which means he is as well. At this point he said he is close to 3 1/2-4 lbs and around 17-17 1/2 long. Weight is still good for me, right at 22lbs all together and my blood pressure, heart rate and sugar still GOOD! The Lord is blessing both me and BABY through each step and I am so thankful.

I am 32 weeks this week and starting the uncomfortable stage. I can't sit long without just being completely miserable. I still haven't had really any swelling but just a little bit. My wedding ring is officially in the jewelry box for a little while and flip flops are a must, no wedges.

I believe Matt is getting excited too. I know he has been the whole time but the closer we get to him being here the more he talks about him and the more he wants to do things for him. He is going to be a good dad, and BABY is going to love him. Matt hurt his ankle this morning walking the dogs. Our beagle may look sweet but she is a rock solid piece of dog, haha. She can jerk and pull just about anything and anybody and that's exactly what happened. Myla pulled and Matt lost his balance and fell down our 2 step brick porch onto the side of his ankle. So now he is on the couch for a few days and his 7 month pregnant wife is getting some practice in doing everything for someone else. :)

Next appointment is May 4th. Our lamaze classes begin that day too. I am looking forward to them and seeing what we can learn about giving birth as well as taking baby home.

30 weeks

April 6th I had a DR. Appt for my 29 week check up. BABY was doing good, measuring where he should be and his heartbeat strong! I love going to the DR and hearing his heartbeat!! I have only gained 20lbs total and I am happy with myself but I'm glad it's where it is and not sky high. Don't think I don't feed BABY because he gets whatever he and mommy wants. My BP and everything was good as well. I had to give blood work but didn't do the glucose. My Dr. didn't feel I needed too with my weight, family history and everything else so I was glad about that. I am now to count his kicks; he should be atleast 10 times in 2 hours.. and he does! He's my little mover :) We go back for another appt. the 21st - I am now going every 2 weeks until my 36th week and then I will be going every week.

This weekend I will be 31 weeks; wow! In a little over 2 months BABY will be here. I am anxious, nervous, scared, speechless, etc. I can't believe how much this pregnancy has flown by and keeps flying by. I keep saying "I can't wait for him to get here" and I can't but it's hard to believe my first pregnancy, this point in my life will be over soon and my first child will be in the world! It helps me to live the saying "enjoy each day God has blessed you with" because I am truly doing so.

We have set a date for our first shower - May 1st. Having the shower for us will be just another stepping stone that will make this pregnancy feel even more real. We invited all our family and friends and I can't wait to see all of them and talk nothing but BABY :) I am already thankful for what people have given us.

BABY's nursery is final complete, other than book shelves that need to be hung. It looks like a little boy and I am so happy with it.

Oh, and wouldn't it be nice to be able to say his name rather than BABY. Yeah but I'm still not going to tell what we have decided on. If you are a family member or friends odds are you already know - except for the middle name.. we're still debating between 2.

Anyways, just a little update - we are doing just great! Keep us in your prayers that the remaining weeks will be just as good as they have been!

Picture at 30 weeks 5 days - That's the changer in the background and a few monkeys we have decorated with.

28 weeks

With spring in the air you can’t help but be in a good mood the past few days. This past weekend Matt & I traveled with the dogs to Emerald Isle for some relaxation with our friends Kristen & Troy. We had nice weather – of course I froze since the wind was blowing ever so lightly but it was a nice weekend. J

Baby & Mommy are still doing good!! My books say he should weigh on average around 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 lbs and be close to 14 ½ to 15 inches long. As I mentioned last week I am starting to feel baby move a lot more now. I feel the occasional blow to the stomach with his fist, foot, knee or elbow but mostly now I feel him actually move. Matt & I watched him Tuesday night for a solid 20 minutes just rolling and pushing up against my stomach. It’s a funny feeling but I love it! My weight is staying where it should be along with my BP and sugar. God is truly taking care and me and baby!

The crib came in this week. Matt put it together in an hour; which was quicker than I thought; I figured it would be in so many pieces it would take all night. It works well with the room and looks better than I thought it would to tell you the truth. The green bedding looks good too! The changing table to match the crib should be here in the next week hopefully, it shipped out yesterday. Little by little the room is coming together!

Posted is a picture of the crib and bedding together, plus a belly picture

This is the crib and bedding before we got the mattress and bumper up last night.

After we got the mattress and bumper up. - 28 weeks 4 days

27 weeks

This past weekend I went with my sister and niece to the beach for a cheerleading competition my sister's niece was in. It was only for a few days but I had fun; anytime with my niece is entertaining. Tori, my niece is so excited for Baby Snider. She loves giving my stomach a hug and telling me how big I am getting. When she gives me a goodbye kiss, Baby gets one too :) This past weekend it was nice weather and the squad we went to support won. It made starting this week at work not seem so bad. This coming weekend Matt & I are meeting our friends Kristen & Troy for another weekend at the beach. I only hope it is the same great weather but either way it will be fun and relaxing - just what we need!

Mommy & Baby are still doing good. Baby moves around a whole lot more now. I guess this will continue with each week/month but it is so neat.. I can feel him roll completely around, lay on one side and my books said that he would start having hiccups this week and you could feel them.. and I do! They are constant for a few minutes and in rhythmic order. I think that is so amazing! Matt has even noticed that the kicks are getting bigger and harder; which of course means Baby is getting bigger. My weight is gaining gradually; 20lbs total now. My sweet cravings at night time I know need to slow down a little but I truly can't help it. Matt continues to tell me "If I am hungry then he is hungry" so needless to say Mommy & Baby get what they want! :) It is a completely new feeling being hungry ALL the time, BUT I will enjoy it for now and worry about it later.

No new updates on the nursery. We are still waiting for the furniture to get here. Crib has been shipped so hopefully in the next week it will get here and we can start putting that together.

Belly Picture at 27 weeks 2 days - Matt even got into one picture.. he's already a proud daddy!

Spring Fever

We have been having a few days of warm weather and although I can't wait until summer I am sitting back and enjoying looking forward to the spring/summer. SO much is going on and although my life the past few years have been the best of my life so far I can only tell the next few years are going to top them! Matt & I went to Babies R Us again this past weekend and registered. WOW! Time has flown by since I have gotten pregnant, I can't believe it's time to register but I am excited. We have also now ordered the crib and changing table for little man. They are so pretty and I can't wait to get them and put them together; haha well.. Matt. This weekend Matt is going with my dad, brother, his dad and one of his friends to the Nascar race at Bristol and I am taking a trip to the beach with my sister and niece. Troy and Kristen are coming home this weekend and I am going to miss them but hopefully before baby boy gets here we will get a weekend at the beach with them! Well these were just a few updates from the last post so here are a few pictures to enjoy until next time.

Changing table and Crib; minus the pink stuff :)

26 weeks 2 days :)

25 weeks

Went to the Dr. this morning for a check-up. Everything checked out to be good and right on track. BABY Boy Snider is growing and heartbeat is strong, 140 BPM. The Dr. measured my tummy; for each cm my stomach is from top to bottom should be around the number of weeks I am; which I think is interesting. I have now gained 13 lbs total and I think that's very good considering I am at the point where everything looks good and when Matt & I sit down to eat together he asked if I want a "spoon or a shovel" Isn't he's so supportive?! No, really he helps me a lot when I have a backache or my stomach is hurting a little so I am thankful for that! We are still working on names. It is so hard to find something you both like and won't get tired of in a few days more less the rest of his life but we are narrowing some down. The nursery has now been painted and looks so cute. We have started to put his closet together with everything we have. Hopefully soon in the next couple of weeks or month we will be able to get the crib and all the furniture so we can start decorating. :) Matt surprised me this week with buying the matching lamp, window valance and changing pad cover to go with his bedding. I was so excited! Matt knew I was wanting it because I like everything to match. It's been such a beautiful weekend/start of the week and it makes me want spring to arrival. I am going to like being able to get out, walk and get some exercise because I am not a cold person and have been sitting on the couch for the most part. Here's a picture of me at 25 weeks in the BABY BLUE nursery!

23 week update

Baby and mommy are growing growing. He kicks a lot more now, actually he kicks just about all day and it is full blown kicks, you can see it from just looking at my stomach now; it is amazing! Sleeping is starting to get difficult but I was never a GREAT sleeper in the first place. I went to the DR. yesterday for a UTI/bladder infection test, all was good. They weighed me.. at this point I have only gained 10 lbs the whole pregnancy. I haven't been trying to watch my weight, believe me I eat what I want and how much I want, I will deal with the weight afterwards but I am glad that it is only 10 lbs at this point.

This weekend we are going to paint the nursery (well Matt & my brother are) but I am so excited to see his nursery coming together. The color of the walls are going to be "BLUE EYES". which I just think sounds sweet. It seems like we are starting to get a lot for him already but I know we need so much more before he gets here. I love seeing everything come together!

Picture at 23 weeks 3 days

All for our little monkey

This week started the process of moving out everything in our "computer room" which will now be the NURSERY :) We are cleaing out the closet, moving out the computer into the spare bedroom, moving my scrapbook stuff (which yes, is a lot), etc. We (Matt) has made a lot of progress. He has moved around the bed and furniture in the spare room to adjust to the computer as well as cleaned out that closet and put things in the attic to adjust to the new "stuff" we have to keep in that closet now. We have picked out the paint for the nursery so Matt along with my brother and dad will hopefully be painting in the next few weeks. We have yet to order the crib but know which one we want it's just a matter of getting it.. A lot of work but SO WORTH IT!

Picture of the crib bedding we picked out. Walls will be different and the decor I have picked is different but is going to look so cute for our "little monkey"

Car Seat & Stroller we picked out. I spared the pictures of Matt putting it together, I figured he wouldn't want them posted.. he's showing his better side in most of them (hehe)

Of course I had to insert a belly picture.. 22 weeks 2 days

First Shopping Trip

Matt & I made our first BABIES R US shopping trip this weekend. It was interesting. We made a start on buying things with help from family, we bought the stroller and car seat to match, high chair and we found a nursery theme! I had saw it online and when we ran across it we both liked it and just had to get it, plus it was on clearance so how could we pass it up? Babies R Us was out of all the decor which I would have wanted to make everything match but i will find something in place of those things and his room will look awesome! The crib bedding and theme is green and blue with brown monkeys and we're thinking of doing the walls a light blue. I am very happy with it and I know our "little monkey" will love it too!

Growing Belly

I have finally begun to form a belly which other people can tell. I have been able to tell for quite a while due to snug pants that I had to leave unbuttoned and having to buy new shirts and pants but NOW the whole world can see how BABY BOY Snider is growing :) Here's a new picture at 21 weeks 3 days

We're having a Precious Baby...

BOY!!!! We are so happy and excited with this news. Baby Boy Snider was weighing in at 15 oz. and heartbeat was 144 BPM. Everything was looking good with Baby and Mommy to be :)I have only gained 5lbs the whole pregnancy which I am surprised about since I eat double servings constantly but I do still try to eat good things. Finding out we are having a BOY made this whole pregnancy seem that much more real. It will be so much fun picking out a name, nursery, clothes, etc. Now, it's time to get started planning!

Here is a 4D Ultrasound Picture from the DR. He wouldn't let us get a good shot but I love this picture with his hand and everything. I love the 4D it is so amazing what you can tell from outside the stomach. I can't wait to see how much he grows from now to next ultrasound and then compare to when he is born. This is a wonderful process and I am absolutely loving every minute.

nursery

Now that we are only a weekend away from finding out what BABY is I started looking at nursery room decor :) I haven't shared with Matt yet so I am not sure what his thoughts are but these are only a few I like; of course you will be able to tell the difference between the girl and boy room.








HOW WILL WE EVER CHOOSE?! These are only a FEW that I liked looking around online. This is going to be so exciting planning and getting everything ready for our little babe :)

20 weeks

So now that I am caught up on all the important stories and facts I can share with you where I am now. This past weekend I was officially at the half way mark!! I am starting to finally show a little and yes I have started to gain my weight back that I lost and even some more. The snow this past weekend gave me a chance to relax, which I love days like this and simply the weekends because since I have started doing more and being myself again I feel like I still need a few days to re-group every weekend. We find out next Monday what BABY is and we will actually be able to stop catching ourselves say "it" when referring to our precious gift that is far more than an "it". This will also be the starting point of planning a nursery, what colors, what to buy, etc. It will be fun posting and sharing with you this important event that is happening in our lives. I feel more and more kicks everyday and I absolutely love the feeling. It gives me a reassuring that everything is A-OK! Below is a picture of me and baby growing! BABY is said to be as big as a canteloupe. :)

Disney World

Jan 16th - 21st: Matt had to travel to Florida for a work convention when I decided I wanted to tag along. Everything was going good and I wanted a break from work. This week went good, I was 18 weeks. WE FELT THE BABY KICK! I had been feeling "flutters" for a few weeks but one night laying on the bed after being out all day at Disney World I actually felt a kick and Matt was able to feel it as well with his hand. It was amazing to be able to start feeling baby and know it was baby now! I actually had walked more and spent more time on my feet this week than I had my whole pregnancy and was starting to feel a whole lot better about this pregnancy and overall health of me and the baby.

17 week appointment

Jan 8th - MY BIRTHDAY! Morning sickness finally starting to fade and starting to get more energy I was glad to have a DR. appointment where I didn't have to complain about anything. Our DR. was able to hear the heartbeat strong and clear through the doppler which meant baby was right on track with growing. I was also cleared to travel, as we were getting ready to go to Disney World the next week. Our next appointment was scheduled for Feb. 8th; we will get to find out what baby is! How exciting?

Getting use to being pregnant

I started off with morning sickness and it lingered for several weeks. I started losing weight and was actually having a lot of trouble being on my feet and wanting to do anything at all other than lay on the couch. I was put on bed rest at 10 weeks, not because of being sick and losing weight but because of a scare we had. Matt & I were in Boone for a wedding with friends of ours, Kristen & Troy and were out at a restaurant afterwards when I went to the bathroom and I had some bleeding. We went straight to the hospital and thanks only to God, everything was just fine. We got a few pictures of the baby and how much it had grown in just 2 weeks since our first ultrasound at 8 weeks. The DR. at the hospital explained this happens to some women for me to only take it easy and not do anything and that is exactly what I did, nothing. Matt was so good to take care of me, the house, our dogs and his job. We went to the DR. again at 12 weeks and everything was still going fine, we were out of the 1st trimester. Everything was still going good and baby was still growing!

Finding out we were pregnant

We found out I was pregnant while we were in Pigeon Forge with Matt's parents for vacation. We knew I might be so we kept it hidden until we knew for sure. One night on the way back from dinner we stopped and ran into a CVS. We were thrilled the test was positive and we were going to try having a baby again! As soon as we got back from vacation I called the DR. and was seen that next week at 4 weeks 4 days. At this point we were simply praying and wishing that everything was going to go good this time. As my blood work and ultrasounds were showing nothing but good news we decided to tell our family and friends. They were are happy as we hoped they would be and more than supportive.

Gotta start somewhere - the basics

I was told by a friend that I should start a blog. Well, here I am.. but where do I begin? I am already half way through my pregnancy, I was 20 weeks this past weekend. Matt & I were married a year last August and it seems like it was just yesterday he was asking me to marry him. We have been through a lot and have learned a lot about each other but that's what I have loved about our marriage so far. This is my 2nd pregnancy but first child. We had a miscarriage last February and although it took time to get over we knew God was taking care of us and that he has a reason for everything; time heals all wounds and though I often wonder and think of that baby I know I can't dwell on the past, it's off to the future. I am due June 20th which is Fathers Day.