I'm Back!

As you probably already noticed, you can not access Baby Watch from the Point website anymore. That is a problem - for me! I have no idea how this blog thing works, besides logging in through the Point website. I'm sorry I have not been on here.

We are doing GREAT!!! We celebrated Derek's first Halloween. Such fun! He had no clue!! But he did go trick-or-treating!

Sorry so short - wanted to just let everyone know we are alive and well. Will catch everyone up to speed soon.

Big Boys!

So you would think that I would be more relaxed the second time around, knowing more and being a bit more experienced....no, not at all. Is it because Derek is so small, or is it that he is the baby and I am babying him, or is it the media freaking people out about swine flu? Whatever it may be, Derek had some congestion the other night and at 8 am the next morning, I was calling the pediatrician's office. Had an appointment for 10.

I love our pediatrician, she is a sweetheart. We are hardly there (which is good), but when we are there she takes very good care of us. We were just there a week ago, she was very happy with Derek's progress and growth that she didn't want us back for another month. Well, we made an appearance a week later.

He checked out perfectly fine!! The funny part of this story is that when the nurse put Derek on the scale she started laughing, last week he weighed 8 pounds 14 ounces, at this appointment....9 pounds 14 ounces. A whole pound in 1 week! Oh my God, he is almost 10 pounds!!!!!

When I took the above picture, I thought, he looks small compared to JoJo, but not THAT small! I have such big boys! Thank God for c-sections!

Overdue Thank You

There is one person I could not have done anything without, and mean anything...that is my husband Joe.

Obviously couldn't have gotten pregnant without him. Although that task was not easy from the start but he always stayed strong and encouraging.

Pregnancy was made so easy with him. He took over a lot with our two year old (physical things that I was limited to), he did the laundry, he did the dishes every night, he cleaned, stepped it up with the pets, did all the food shopping, and just ran around in general to do whatever I needed him to do. Not to mention the nightly massages!!

All listed above...yeah, he still does it! Amazing! (I do things too...lol...)

He has grasped fatherhood like it is second nature. The first time around, he made it seem like we had three sets of multiples, he just knew what to do right away. I never had to give advice or share my opinion on how he was doing something...he just did it right, from the start.

Now having Derek here, we have a totally organized juggling act going on. We made a schedule and routine without even trying to. It seems everything we do just works. We make it work. We just know each other, we know how to function without sharing the words to make the motions go smooth.

For all of this, I want to thank you, Joe! Thank you for my boys, thank you for your support, your patience, and most of of all your love.

I couldn't imagine this journey with anyone else but you.

Slacker?

Ok, so I haven't been faithful to blogging every night like I did before I had Derek, but I don't know if I would say I have been slacking.

Derek is so good and sleeps so much that I could find the time to blog. I just rather lay down with him and have us nap together, or take some time out of our day for tummy time, songs, feedings and photo shoots!

I just adore him. I am so in love with the new man in my life! He is not replacing the others, he just made me realize that my heart had more room to grow, to allow me to love another person (again) that words cannot describe.

So as for the slacking, not at all. This being home thing has made me be more of a planner then I already am. For example - Derek's Christening scheduled, restaurant booked. Christmas shopping under way via online shopping. Wait for this one - - - - JoJo's 3rd birthday booked....it's not until April.

Need I say more? Next task, work on planning summer vacations! I can get used to this!

Derek's First Few Days & Homecoming

Well Visit

Both boys had a well visit today. First time we were taking them both out at the same time. My diaper bag was bulging, now that it had to be supplied with double (my 12 day old requires more than my 2 year old).

Both the boys are doing great! Derek weighed in at 8 pounds 14 ounces, and measured 21 inches. When we left the hospital he weighed 8 pounds 6 ounces and was 20 1/4 inches. He did some growing over the past week! That explains why he has been so sleepy!

We are doing great! Derek wakes up once during the night. He is drinking 3 ounces at every feeding. During the day he eats every 3 hours, but a night he goes longer. Do you think he knows it is bed time and we need to sleep longer then? Probably not, but we'll go with that for now. It's working out nicely for us!!

The Little Brother

Proudly displaying his new title!

Update...

I was warned that 2 children will put me into a total whirlwind. I have to say, it's a piece of cake, so far! Derek sleeps probably 22 of the 24 hours in a day. He eats at least 2 1/2 ounces every three to four hours, then it is off the sleep until the next feeding.

He sleeps so much that when his eyes are open I run for the camera so I can capture a few moments before he falls asleep, again!

I know, some of you are probably thinking...oh honey, just wait. But until those moments come, I am going to savor the the sweet innocent sleep time that me and Derek both deserve. We both had a rough past week and a half!

He is an absolute pleasure, a true blessing from God. We are so lucky, we thank God for him all the time!

Big brother update.....
He just adores him, plain and simple. He loves his brother. There has been no jealous moments, no outburst, no tantrums. True brotherly love!

The Grasso Gang

Home Sweet Home! Although there is no place like home, I have to say, my stay at Riverview was excellent. From the team that was in the OR with me, to every nurse that helped me and Derek, down to the food services....excellent! And I thank you all for all you did to make a magical moment even more special.

The c-section was great. The spinal was even better. There was no reason for me to be nervous. As I laid on the OR table I sang along with my CD and talked to the doctors and nurses. Great experience.

So now we are home. Everyone warned that having two would make me want to pull my hair out. Second day home and second day that both boys are napping at the same time. I know, probably won't last, but at least they are giving me an easy start.

JoJo is so in love with his brother. It's wonderful. He is adjusting so well. I will post videos later this week of there interactions with each other. It's so sweet.

JoJo and Derek look noting alike. Derek has so much hair and it is so dark. I guess my heartburn at the end proved the myth to be true.

Thank you all for your well wishes. This was such an amazing experience, being able to share such a miracle with the listeners of The Point!

Here We Go

This will be the last night that I sit in front of the computer and blog while pregnant with Derek.

Thank you to everyone who has sent their well wishes for tomorrow morning. Love, support and prayers are the best thing that anyone can give me right now!

We are so excited to meet our new little man!

I thought that I was going to be get emotional tonight when I put JoJo to bed, being that this is the last time we will be doing that with him as our only child. I was totally fine. The only thing I could think of was that I would feel worse if I never gave him a sibling at all.

So, here we go....

Thank you all for following along on this wonderful miracle with us! Lots of pictures and photos to follow soon!

Hurry Up Saturday

As I said yesterday, I'm done!

I slept a total of an hour and a half last night.

I was at the hospital today at 7 for blood work and pre-admission. I am not a good patient when it comes to blood work., Well, I should say, I used to be a bad patient. In my first pregnancy I had a tech who proved to be the best "blood taker" ever. I know they have a proper name, I just can't think of it. There are actually two girls that I trust with my veins. Both work at the hospital. I first met Iliana and then I met Lily. They are great. Today Iliana actually took the blood, but Lily hung out in the room and chatted while my blood was being drawn.

I came home to nap, which was successful! Then it was off to a pedicure.

Tomorrow I plan on doing not one thing. We are planning on going out to dinner. I think that is all I can handle at this point!

Throwing in the Towel

I'm done! No more cooking, no more cleaning, no more laundry, etc.

I am exhausted.

I had my last doctor visit today. I didn't gain any weight in the past 3 weeks. When I weighed in today I gained 3 pounds in one week. I have been very hungry this week. Oh well, not a big deal! What's 3 more pounds when you're up 30 something!

I'm really ready to have this baby. I have been so "I love having him in me"....and I do, but I'm beat. I am so looking forward to getting back to the Atlantic Club, shopping at Express and wearing heels! I'll be happy to just wear a pair of pants that have a zipper and button!

I think this is God's way of preparing me for the seperation that I will experience on Saturday.

Pumpkin Picking

Today we took a family trip to the pumpkin patch. Our last excursion before Derek. I wanted to get the house set for Halloween before I went into the hospital. In my mind I am projecting that I will not be able to do anything in October. I know I will be running around sooner than later, but I'm preparing to take it easy so I can heal properly.

If you are wondering, that is not a pumpkin under my sweatshirt, it's Derek! Even though, I could not find a pumpkin as big as my stomach today. That's when you know, chances are there is a big kid in there!

Luck

Tonight I was making dinner, as I do every night, and I came across a rare happening.

I was making a family recipe of chicken and dumplings. Something my Mom used to make when I was younger and it was always a thrill when I found out that was on the menu at dinner!

It takes about an hour to make, cook the chicken, then make the dumplings.....
The dumpling mixture requires 3 eggs. I opened the frig and there were no more eggs, so I asked Joe to run to the store as I continued to cook the chicken.

He returned quickly with eggs in hand. As I cracked open the second egg I was surprised to find a double yolk!

I was always under the impression that double yolks are good luck!

I can use some of that on Saturday morning!
The luck, not the yolk!!!!

Counting Sleep

Sleeping has been such an issue the past few nights. It hasn't been a walk in the park during the whole pregnancy, but lately, it's a chore.

I want to sleep, believe me, I do. I have written about the positions that I sleep in. I'm at the point that if I had to sleep standing I would do it. Last night I finally fell asleep and I woke up an hour and a half later with my entire left side in pins and needles. My first thought when I woke up was, am I in labor, that is how painful it was. I finally came to my senses after a few moments and realized that my whole side was numb.

Thank God Joe woke up with JoJo. I got my best sleep this morning from 6-9:30.

The other morning when I was on air with Lou and Liz, Lou asked me what is the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning, being so close to delivery. Honestly, the past two mornings I have counted how many nights I have to try and sleep before I meet Derek.

Realization

This afternoon I realized that one week from today I will no longer be pregnant. Of course I just didn't realize it now, I knew I was having the baby, but it set in that it is so close.

I cried.

I just love being pregnant. I am so excited to meet Derek, but I love having him inside.

Made me think of when we will get pregnant again!

Final Product

Bernadette-ettes

Yesterday I brought 3 of my nieces with me on air - Marilou, Taryn and Tara, or as Lou referred to them - The Bernadette-ettes.

Once again it was a fun filled morning. As this experience with Lou and Liz comes to a near close I wanted them to be apart of it. I have no younger sisters - but I have them.

Thank you girls for joining me! Derek is lucky to have such fun loving beautiful cousins!

Weekly Visit

This morning I was up bright and early to go on air with Lou and Liz. I brought 3 of my nieces with me. We had a blast!

Right from the radio station I headed over to the doctor for my weekly check up. The video above is a peak of what I do when I go there. The girls were nice enough to let me tape them for my blog. Thanks Ladies!

I want to extend a very Happy Birthday to Dr. Iwamaye who will be celebrating his birthday later this week. Although he claims he does not like to celebrate, I think it is appropriate to acknowledge the man who will be delivering my child and making October 3rd Derek's birthday!

When I was at my visit today we talked about the procedure in the OR. I have been there before, but in a different light. This time I will be going in scheduled. We talked about different people that will in the OR with us, but most importantly we talked about what kind of music will be playing in the OR when I am in there. Last time the radio was blasting, which I liked, it muffles the sterile sound.

I have to go to work on a mix CD. Dr. Iwamaye gave me some of his favorite artists, so they will defiantly be making their way on the song list!

Last Hoorah!

Sunday night Joe and I attended a wedding. Probably the last night out alone before we become parents of 2.

A nice way to spend it! Certain restrictions apply at a wedding when you are 9 months pregnant. I never made my way to the bar, and the only dancing I did was slow. I don't think it would have been appropriate to jump up and down on the dance floor. I didn't want to make their wedding night to be shared with a birth! But I enjoyed every minute of it. I sipped on my shirley temples, ate delicious food during cocktail hour - so much that I was so full when dinner arrived. It's amazing how I can't eat like I used to, even before being pregnant. There is no more room in there!

Congratulations to Ray and Amanda, thanks for a good time!

Sleepy Tradition

There is a bassinet that has been in Joe's family for years. I'm not sure how many years, but a long time, a very long time.

His family has a tradition that each newborn sleeps in the bassinet for the first few weeks of their lives, or not, totally up to the parents. We actually used it with JoJo. He slept in it until he was about 3 weeks in our room, then we moved him to his own room in his crib. We plan on doing the same with Derek.

Joe's parents came over yesterday and they brought the bassinet with them. Joe's Mom put new blue ribbon around the top, then a football ribbon over the blue. It looks really nice.

Now Derek is ready for his first night's sleep at home.

To a Whole Other Level

I think I need to be stopped. So as you all know I have been in the nesting phase for quite some time now. Everything in the house is almost completely done. Ok, do you want to know what is not done...don't laugh.....we have to put the mobile, ocean wonders aquarium and crib skirt on the crib. I know, I know....petty, but its what's left!

Bottles are sanitized, clothes in size order.....you get the picture.

So now that all the house things are done, today we moved onto the cars. Well, it was me telling Joe we needed to clean out both cars, put the travel system stroller in mine along with the double stroller my neighbor Laurie gave us.

That is how we spent our Saturday afternoon. Ahh, feels good to have that done!

What next???

I need to give my husband a break, I could not be married to me right now! Thank God he is so good to me!

I Wasn't Expecting That

I had my weekly check up at the doctor yesterday. Very excited that I did not gain any weight! That's always good!

All 3 of us filled the exam room, the nurse took my blood pressure, tested my urine, then she started to walk out, but before she did she turned back into the room and told me to take everything off the bottom and handed me a paper cloth to drape over myself.

I said, "oh no, I got my one and only internal last week, I don't need another, I'm having a scheduled c-section."

She checked with the doctor - I was wrong. Ok, no big deal, they have to do what they need to do.

So there I was getting "checked out." No dilation, no effacement.

Just what I wanted to hear!

I Hope This Lasts!

It's Here, It's Finally Here!

Furniture arrived today!! Crib, 6 drawer dresser and changing combo table! All is set up and looks good!

My order is not complete, I am missing the conversion rails for when the crib will convert into a full bed, but I don't need them now (obviously). So I am a happy customer. Finally!

Tonight Joe and I will be taking Derek's clothes out of the bags and putting them into the dresser.

Now I am on a mission for a plain white crib skirt. Looked in 2 stores today, no luck.

Heartburn, Now??

Since yesterday I have had heartburn. I just find that to be very weird since I did not have it my entire pregnancy. I tried to think back to anything different that I ate and I can't think of anything. I feel as if I swallowed my vitamin and it got stuck in my throat and is dissolving. Yuck!

Thank you to my neighbor Laurie, she has three girls and she had an extra double stroller that she let me have! I am very appreciative! Can't wait to push the boys around in it!

Notice my baby countdown...I'm in the "teens." Whoo Hooooo!

This is What Huge Looks Like

I am so curious to see how big Derek will be. I don't think he will weigh that much more then his brother did, but I really think he will be longer, or I should say, I would be surprised if he wasn't longer. Last night in the middle I awoke to Derek laying into my ribs. I felt his little foot (I think) pushing right into my ribs. I do not ever remember feeling that with JoJo. I think he is longer because when I went to the doctor he said his head is down there, so I am picturing that he is low and he is long enough to still push into my ribs. Or - he may be really short and he can extend his leg all the way out straight and that is why I am feeling him.

Oh, so many questions yet to be answered!!

What Not to Wear

So the other day I was getting dressed. I was going for the comfy look since I was just sitting around the house. I put on a pair of comfy gray sweats and I pulled out a pink shirt, size medium.

The shirt did not cover my entire stomach.

I stood there and actually contemplated wearing it anyway, but I knew it would drive me crazy. So I searched through the many maternity shirts I have.

I found a fit!

It's just so funny that at the end of my pregnancy clothes are getting smaller. Note - clothes are getting smaller, I'm not getting bigger.

I'm funny, right!?!?

I'm sure I will have to go through a few shirts tomorrow after my Dad's fabulous dinner he cooked and the brownies my Mom made tonight!

Brotherly Love

Nothing!

I had my first internal exam today. Actually the one and only I will have this pregnancy since I have a scheduled c-section. The doctor had to do the "strep" test on me. He said the CDC requires that every pregnant women gets it done, no matter of having a scheduled c or not. I told him to do what he needed to do!

I then asked him to see if I was dilated. I was just curious. I don't want to be. I want everything to stay nice and closed until my scheduled c. My result...nothing! Baby Derek's head is there, but 0 centimeters. I was very happy with that result!

A Little Humor

My sister-in-law Teresa emailed me this joke today. Too cute not to share!! Kids say the funniest things!


A Bun in the Oven

A four-year-old little boy was at the doctor's office with his mother in the waiting room when he spotted a pregnant lady on the other side of the room. Having nothing better to do, he walked over to her and inquisitively asked,
"Why is your stomach so big?"
She replied, "I'm having a baby.
"With big eyes, he replied,
"Is the baby in your stomach?" She said,
"He sure is."
Then the little boy, with a puzzled look on his face, asked yet another question:
"Is it a good baby?"
She said, "Oh, yes. It's a real good baby."
At this point the woman was thinking the little boy was incredibly cute and looked forward to what he had to say next. And, much to her surprise, with an even more surprised and shocked look than before, he asked,
"Then why did you eat him?"


....Right about now in my pregnancy I look like I ate a few kids!!

Great Book!

There are many books out there about pregnancy. I think I may have looked through all of them in Barnes and Noble one day. I just wanted something easy, and to the point. I have to share my favorite with you. It's titled Great Expectations written by Sandy and Marci Jones.

I pick that book up all the time. I actually bought it for my first pregnancy and it's the only one that I read this time around!

A Great Adventure

Today was fun! JoJo went on a boat ride this morning, he was very excited. I stayed on shore. Didn't want to sink the boat!

We then went to Great Adventure. It's amazing how once you have children your own interests are put aside. Everything is about them, well that is how we are at least. I'm sure Joe would have gone on some roller coasters, but it was straight to Wiggles World. Then from there it was Bug Bunny Land (or something like that).

Even though we didn't go on any rides for ourselves, it was such a better day just watching JoJo's eyes light up when he saw a show or went on a certain ride. This is what it is all about!

Now, 27 days closer to our own great adventure!

Spectacular Sprinkle

Thank you to Chris, Christina, Denise, Laraine, Liz and Rachel for a wonderful afternoon! I want you all to know how much I appreciate how thoughtful and generous you are! It was great to see all of you today! Thank you for all of my wonderful gifts!

Furniture Frustration

Derek will be here exactly one month from today. WOW! So exciting!

His room is ready, clothes are washed. I'm just missing the furniture. I ordered everything in July. My crib is in, by now so is the dresser. The only item that will be cutting it close is the changing combo table.

I can't get a hold of the guy! He is not returning calls. All I get is a voice mail explaining why he is not open (family illness). I feel bad and hope all is well, but I want my furniture! Made some contacts with people that might have an idea, but no answers! I'm so frustrated.

On a lighter note, I went to Pottery Barn Kids today and bought Derek's sheets, I went with the blue and white gingham, very cute! I just wish I had a crib to put them on. Ok, ok, I know, tell me to shut up! There are more important things to focus on.

From the Mouth of a Babe

On Saturday at my sprinkle, I was so happy to spend time with my family and chit-chat about how I've been feeling and just catching up. My 3 year old great niece Ava was very interested in my huge stomach. She kept coming up to me and looking at it and then she would touch it and say "there's a baby in there."

On one of her curious visits she touches my stomach and says, "what's in there?" I said a baby. Then she proceeds with the funniest question I have been asked my whole pregnancy, "what color is it?"

I replied with, "white, I hope!"

So cute! She then told me he is going to have red hair. Time will tell if she is right!

First Day of School, Last Day of School

Today I went to see my wonderful doctor. He informed me that today was my last day of work. Not going to argue with the boss!

Now let's talk about how HUGE I look in this video. OH MY! Joe, did you really have to shoot from that angle, it is not my best side!

Derek is doing well, heartbeat is strong! I just have to take it easy for the next few weeks, until it is time for him to arrive!

Installing the Carseat

Sprinkle!

Thank you!

Today our family threw a sprinkle for us! We received such wonderful, thoughtful, generous gifts! We are so lucky to have such a great family. It's amazing how much and love and support we have from such important people. Derek is very lucky to have you all, and so are we! Thank you!

Cause for Concern?

A few weeks ago I blogged about how I was getting Braxton-Hicks contractions. Last night I was getting contractions, except this time there was discomfort involved and they came more regularly then a Braxton-Hicks contraction.

In my heart I knew I was ok, but my mind was telling me that the right thing to do would be to call my doctor. I had a scheduled appointment at 9 this morning, so I decided to just wait it out and go to my scheduled appointment.

When I spoke to my doctor he told me that a contraction is a contraction, it doesn't matter. If they come more than five times in an hour I should drink a lot of water and put my feet up. If they persist into the next hour I should call him and then he would meet me in the hospital to monitor the contractions.

As I sat there talking to him I got a contraction. I made him feel my stomach and he said, "yep, that's a contraction."

My doctor explained to me that having a baby at 33 weeks, 5 days is not something I would want to do. There could be issues involved with feeding, regulating body temperature. At 35 weeks it would be a different story.

I left the office praying to God this little guy stays inside until October 3rd. When I got home I drank and drank and drank more and more water!

Felt fine ever since!

My doctor does want to see me again on Tuesday to check up on me! I love how he is very thorough and doesn't take anything lightly! He's great!

Setting Up

It Fit

This morning we were getting ready to go to Pottery Barn Kids for story time. I was trying to find something to wear. I wanted something comfy since we would be there for a whole 20 minutes, then it was home for some tan time. I looked in my closet and there was this cute green t-shirt that I had bought months ago. I have been bypassing it because I did not think it would fit anymore.

I decided to take it off the hanger and try it out. To my surprise, it fit!! I was excited because it really is a cute shirt!

After some tan time, Joe took out a lot of the essentials Derek will need right when he gets home; car seat, car seat bases, swing, etc. I took video, I will post it when everything is in its place!

Disability, Paperwork, Phone Calls, Etc....

Today was one of those, get back to reality days. I had a list of phone calls I had to make, so as soon as I could, I was on the phone.

The first phone call was to Prudential Disability Insurance Company. I bought into the private disability insurance that is offered to teachers through the NJEA. I had to file my claim. Very easy.

Then it was onto calling the Board of Education office to settle up sick days and maternity leave start date. We are now offered a state disability insurance. This is something that just went into effect in July so I had a few questions regarding the process of getting that together. My questions could not be answered, the woman in charge is on vacation. When I received my mail today there was a packet pertaining all the info and paperwork I need. Great, check that off the list.

Next call was made to my school. My schedule has been changed, not for the better, and I feel they are holding it against me that I am going on maternity leave, and someone wanted to step into my classroom and it was allowed. Won't get into that. Makes my blood pressure rise and that is not good for me right now. Just put it this way, I am not happy, at all!

One of the final calls today was to the baby furniture store. I wanted to call and check the status of all the furniture. The crib is in, the 6 drawer dresser will be in in a few days, but the changing combo table will not be in until September 25th. At least I will have the dresser to put his clothes in.

Productive day I would say!

Moving Right Along

Today Joe painted Derek's room. I was on a little rampage with the whole nesting thing today. But at the same time I found myself laying on the couch a lot.

I began to put my hospital bag together. Taking an inventory of what I have and what I need. I need pajamas for the hospital. Being that I know what to expect and how I will feel after a c-section, I know that what I have will not be comfortable enough for after surgery. I put some toiletries together as well.

I want to get as much done as I can, so the final weeks will be spent lounging around. Wait a minute...I am in the final weeks! ;0)

Ocean City 2009

Today we returned from a wonderful vacation in Ocean City Maryland. Here are a few clips of how we spent our week. We had a great time, and I want to thank my sister Patty, brother-in-law Steve and niece Taryn for making our vacation even better. They are amazing people and they are so good to JoJo. The three of them really helped me out in my 8 month pregnant state! We are very lucky to have them in our lives!

Lots more pictures will follow in tomorrow's blog!

Still Learning

At 31 you would figure I would have done a lot of things in my life. Basic childhood things would have been accomplished by now. Well, this week I checked off one of the few things left from childhood I never did...fly a kite.

I know, crazy, right? Well on the beach there I was flying my son's kite that he received for his birthday from Aunt Patty and Uncle Steve.

I guess at 31 I still have lots more to do, more firsts to accomplish.

Next one, mom of two!

Outlet Shopping Spree

Today was spent outlet shopping. A solid full day of stores after stores. It was wonderful.

Countless items were purchased for Derek. Really, we bought a lot. We bought him his going home outfit. I bought newborn size, I hope he fits it. I was trying to base my size purchases on what JoJo wore at a few weeks old. I remember packing him a newborn outfit for going home and a 0-3 outfit and the 0-3 was big on him, and he was 8 lbs. 3oz. So I went with a newborn size outfit. Very comfy, but cute. I plan to have his hospital pictures taken in the same outfit.

Little sweaters, jeans, polos, button downs, and cute little logo outfits with matching pants were the highlight of this shopping trip.

Just another thing to make me so excited to have him!

Lunch Date

The baby that floats around my baby countdown to the right has been getting bigger, if you haven't noticed. He is touching all the sides of his "bubble." Pretty cool how it shows the actual size of the baby now.

Today I sat down to eat lunch. I wanted to sit in the comfy chair and watch TV when I was eating. The only problem was that I had no where to put my plate. I looked around to see where I could put my plate. I looked and looked. Then it came to me.

I slid down in the seat and rested my plate on my stomach. Derek felt the pressure and began to try and kick it off. I couldn't have asked for a nicer lunch date, well of course JoJo would have completed the date, but it was his nap time!

Summer Sun

Today was a nice day spent on the beach. Still, the heat is not bothering me. Thank God. Derek was very quiet on the beach. Maybe the heat put him to sleep. He's making up for it now!

Dinner tonight was wonderful. I ate ice cream first, then dinner. I know, you are all probably thinking, it's not Thursday, why ice cram tonight? I treated myself! Why not!

In Position

Yesterday I had my two week check up with my doctor. All is well. We heard the heartbeat, nice and strong. The doctor then measured my stomach. I had asked him if I am measuring 32 weeks. His response "no, bigger." I let it go from there. I didn't ask any more questions! He followed up with saying that "this a big kid."

I had asked him a question about the whooping cough vaccine. The CDC is recommending that all women after giving birth should receive the vaccination. I asked my doctor what he suggests. He said that they have to offer it, but a patient does not have to accept. I was not offered this with my first child, so I wanted to learn more about it. I have decided against it.

Before I left, I wanted to know where Derek is positioned. The doctor laid me back down and started feeling the top of my stomach. Derek is head down and his back is on the left side of my belly, and his legs are on the right side. I was curious to know, even though it doesn't matter, since he is going to be a c-section. It's just nice to know that he is doing what he is supposed to be doing!

Big Belly

Daddy's hand on Derek!

Silly JoJo

I figured my voice was heard enough over the air today, so I interviewed Big Brother JoJo. He was extremely silly during his interview, he's a bit of a show off for the camera. :0)

No Sweat

I was warned by many people that I would have a very hard time during the summer. I was told that being pregnant in the heat is not fun, at all. I have to say, I have not felt that way. Take today for instance, the hottest day of the summer, I was on the pool deck by 11:30 and I called it quits around 4.

Ok, now, if I didn't have the pool, I would have never lasted. I did something today that I normally never do, I went under water. I have this fear that my hair will turn green if I go under so I never do. Yes, it was that hot where I felt the need to do it!

Vacation is coming near, so I hope that my resilience to the heat continues.

I Don't Get It

Today we just relaxed. A nice lazy day.

I found myself watching TLC, no shock, I love that channel. There is a show on TLC called I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant. I watch that show often and every time I think, how can you not know.

I'm not doubting these women, but I know how active my children are when they are inside of me, there is no denying a human being is in there.

The other amazement is that they don't gain weight......I just don't get it!

College Connections

I had such a nice day seeing my friends from college. Today was Brennan's first birthday party, my friend Kathy's son. I got to spend time with Melanie and her two kids Kelsey, almost 3, and Aiden, 1 in a few weeks. Such a nice day.

Each time we get together we pick up right where we left off. We have seen each other through many special events in each of our lives and it is nice to do so!

Today we watched our kids interact with each other and of course we talked about Derek's arrival.

A far stretch from the crazy Thursday nights we used to spend at Tradewinds, but I know I can speak for them when I say, we much rather be at kiddie birthday parties then partying the night away!

Wiped Out

Today, for the first time in this pregnancy, I am exhausted. I have run all over Monmouth County with my 2 year old all summer, but for some reason today, did me in.

I went up to my school to set some things up for the upcoming school year. JoJo amused the ladies in the main office. All they could say was, "wow, he is non-stop." They marveled over the size of me!

Then off to the summer program for the special ed kids in the district. Joe teaches there over the summer and they had a picnic. It was so nice to see a lot of people that I work with during the school year. Everyone was complimentary of how I look, that was so nice to hear.

Nap time was spent in the car seat as we went from one place to the other. At 3:30 we were at The Sprayground for a playdate. At that point, I was pooped, so Joe came with me, he ran after JoJo and I hung out with the girls. For some reason, their children stay in one spot, and mine is all over!

Not done yet...shopping at Children's Place, then a quick dinner stop at a local pizza place in Holmdel where we sat outside to wrap up the beautiful day!

Now I sit here on the computer hoping this blog makes some what of sense, and I look forward to bed.

Wouldn't have the spent the day any other way! That's the beauty of having children, you just go and go and go! Now it's time to spend time with Derek!

Feeling of Fear

Last night I was laying in bed and I was over come with a feeling of fear and sadness. The fear was brought on because I felt like my pregnancy is going way too fast. I love being pregnant, and thankfully my little boy has been very good to me! Obviously the sadness was brought on by the fear.

I am savoring the remaining days. A major comfort in the situation is, God willing, this will not be my last pregnancy. With that thought in mind I rolled over, well at least tried to, and went to sleep!

Ovulation Advice

A very good friend of mine is trying to get pregnant. She just started trying and she is not sure of when she ovulates. She came to me for some advice. I passed on whatever info I was given, either by friends, family members and my fertility doctor.

I started her with the basics, use an ovulation kit. It's a good way to see when your body ovulates. I told her when she gets a positive, to call me for future instruction! I am going to leave that part out because I want to keep it clean. :0)

I spoke with her today and she is doing what she was told, she is using the kit. She is anticipating the positive sign! It brought me back to the many months that I used the kit. I was beginning to give up hope, until my fertility doctor convinced me that they actually do work.

So, to you my friend, keep doing your thing....you will get a positive and I hope your positive leads to another positive on another test!!!! Just stay positive! Got it?!?!

Something That Was Shared With Me

I received these "commandments" a few years ago and I always held on to them. I'm not here to preach parenting info, please don't take it that way, I just thought they were interesting and I thought I would share them. I use them for myself, well I try to at least! I find I use the strategies in my classroom as well. Enjoy!

- Be consistent.
- Actions have consequences.
- Say what you mean and mean it.
- Parents work together as a team.
- Don't make promises you can't keep.
- Listen to your children.
- Establish a routine.
- Respect is a two-way street.
- Positive reinforcement works much better than negative reinforcement.
- Manners are universal.
- Define your role as parents.

I needed to brush up on these, things are going to be different with two! I'm not denying that! Looking forward to the whirl wind!

2 Months From Today

I started my day off at The Atlantic Club. As I was walking on the treadmill, I glanced down at my watch, it was 9:10. The only thought that could go through my mind was that in exactly two months from today I will have met my son by now.

My other thought was that in exactly two months from now I will be in no condition to be on a treadmill!

I spent the afternoon with my wonderful doctor for a routine check up. My Mom came with me to hear Derek's heartbeat. She is the producer of the above video. Everything is great! Back to the doctor every two weeks now!

Stretching Out

Today I am having one of those stretching feeling days. 30 weeks pregnant, so yes, Derek is putting on weight, which means he needs some more room. A bit uncomfortable for me, but well worth it!

It was a nice rainy day spent at home doing a whole lot of nothing. I actually did something today, something I rarely do, maybe the second time in my pregnancy...yep, I napped! It was wonderful! I have to start fitting those in more often!

Count Your Blessings

Tonight we went to the Blue Claws game. Great game for kids! Joe was excited to see Darryl Strawberry, I was happy to see it was Autism Awareness night.

Autism has a very special place in my heart. I have taught many, many autistic children. They amaze me. I just love them. As much as I teach them, they teach me more.

Tonight a group of autistic children took the field and threw out pitches to home plate. The site of that just made me so happy. I was really impressed that they could handle the noise and the excitement that went along with being in a crowded stadium.

I was more choked up for the fact that having a healthy child is one of the greatest gifts God could give parents.

I pray every night for that!!

Great Advice From the Girls

I totally put my friends on the spot today. I have to thank them for being such good troopers! The 3 ladies I interviewed are all moms to 2 children. I asked them for honest advice and words of wisdom on the transition from 1 child to 2.

Thanks ladies!!

Pop Preparing Derek's Room

A Morning With the Girls

Today I was in studio with Liz, Erin and Tina. It was a very nice morning! Just us girls. Checkout the videos! Lou, don't worry, you were missed!

Today I feel like my unborn son is moving his way into my rib cage and sitting on my lungs. He has officially taken over in there, as he should!

Just look at my countdown...66! WOW!!! Time is flying, flying, flying....

I told Joe the other day, I just can't wait to hold him. When he bulges out of my stomach, I always wonder if it's a foot or head, or even a little butt!

I can't wait to see all of it!

New Point Commercial

I know my blogs are supposed to be about my pregnancy, but this cracked me up and I had to share it. I did not teach him this, he picked it up all on his own. I realized he knew it as he sang along with the radio today. Lesson learned....kids pick up everything they hear!!!!

Looking Forward to Next Summer With Derek

Today we went down to the boardwalk, a place we frequent often. Here we are on one of the few rides that Derek will be able to go on next summer. We can't wait for him to join us!

Nesting

Usually the nesting stage doesn't happen until a few more weeks, but I think it hit me already. I actually know it did, I gave up laying out today to organize things. That's big!

Over this past weekend I packed up a whole closet reorganized the one in our bedroom and rampaged through all the shoes under our bed.

Joe took out all the newborn and 0-3 month clothes that we have. I wanted to take an inventory of what we will need. The boys are born in complete different seasons, but there are some things that I can still use for Derek.

I was getting the biggest kick out of the size of the clothes. I can not wait to have this baby. There are so many special moments in life, being pregnant is way way up there. I just love it!!! The whole process is amazing!

Interview With Dad

Size Doesn't Matter

When I first found out I was pregnant my muscles remembered exactly what to do to carry a child. I starting showing earlier, which I hear is common. At first, I looked to be a lot more pregnant then I was, in my eyes at least. Of course the rude comments from people didn't help either. I remember thinking, my God, what am I going to look like when I am 7 or 8 months.

Well here I am, 7 months. Yeah, I'm big, but I'm also over worrying about how large I look. I see pregnant people now and they are due way sooner than me and I am way bigger. So what. I really mean that. JoJo was over 8 pounds, who knows how big Derek will be, but it doesn't matter. What matters is that I am healthy and so is he.

When I was picking JoJo up from The Kid Zone at The Atlantic Club today, a mom stopped me and told me how great I look. She asked when I was due, if I knew what I was having, etc. She was so sweet. I thanked her for her lovely compliment. She praised me again for how I was carrying my baby and she said "look at you, you're here." She said she has seen me at the gym lately and she is quite impressed. It was just nice to hear that from a total stranger. I told her she made my day!

Cupcake Craving

Ok, so I was bad today.

My morning started out great, a nice workout at The Atlantic Club. I was there by 8:30, did my cardio and worked on bi's and tri's. I felt good. Picked up JoJo in the Kid Zone and then it was off to Gymboree at 10:10. A productive, active day.

Then all of a sudden it hit me......I NEEDED a cupcake. It had to have a lot of icing, preferably chocolate. At 4:00 Joe was running to the local bakery to get me one. It was every thing I was dreaming of and more.

So there you have it, craving #2 in my pregnancy. I didn't feel that bad indulging in the craving, I meet with my trainer again tomorrow morning at 9!

Did I mention it is Thursday...ice cream night. Yep, I'm eating that too! :0)

Preview to Derek's Room

A before video of what Derek's room looks like and a brief description of what it will hopefully come to be. Please note, this is a before shot! I would never let my child's bedroom be this messy! Enjoy!

Braxton Hicks

I don't know why I have neglected to write about this before, but I have been getting braxton hicks contractions for the past two or three weeks. They are such a strange sensation. Derek feels like he is rolling up into a tight ball and trying to push his way out of my stomach. Only the lower part, not on the top right under my chest.

Knowing what REAL contractions feel like, I know there is no need to worry. There is a CLEAR difference between the two. Just to make sure I was ok, I did mention it to the doctor the last time I went. Honestly that was the only thing I had to report since my pregnancy has been uneventful, thank God!! He said no problem, unless they come four times in an hour and I can't stop them by laying down or drinking water.

I take notice, but I don't freak out. Just nature's way of preparing a body to give birth. It's funny, sometimes I feel like my body won't prepare for vaginal birth, like I won't get contractions or dilate early because I am having a scheduled c-section. Mother nature doesn't know that...she's just doing her job!

Stroller Shopping

Our day today at Baby's R Us. We ended up registering for the jogging stroller!

Baby Kay-Key

I am back from a wonderful weekend spent with my family to celebrate the Baptism of my niece and Goddaughter, Katherine Hope, or as her big cousin calls her "Baby Kay-Key."

It was such a nice weekend. The baptism ceremony was wonderful. My Dad baptised Katie, he is a deacon in the Catholic Church. As the ceremony was taking place, JoJo added to the moment by playing the bongos and drum set. Everyone thought it was funny, me, not so much. But my sister and brother-in-law didn't seem to mind and that was most important!

As I stole Katie out of her father's arms this afternoon, I immediately wanted to rush to October to hold Derek. She made me so excited to have a newborn again. A feeling I can not explain, but it was of pure excitement, joy and wonderment.

I just want to steal her again, not only to spend time with her and to love her up, but to feel that feeling of holding a newborn.........indescribable!

Godmother Getaway

I am packing up and getting ready to go to State College Pennsylvania. I am leaving tomorrow morning. My parents are driving JoJo and I up. Joe is staying home, he has work and he has to stay with Cody!

I am the Godmother of my sister Kate's daughter, Katie, and her Baptism is on Saturday. A great honor for me! She is such a sweet little girl!

My father-in-law came down today, all day, and painted JoJo's new room. It looks wonderful! I am so thankful that he did that for us! So now while we are gone for the weekend, Joe will move the furniture, then we can get started on Derek's room. Everything is coming together. Look at my countdown...I'm in the "70's"...WOW!!!!

We Are Family

Today my sisters joined me in the studio. We had such a blast. Check out the videos on the website! We shared some stories on air and we also shared many off. My sister Mimi made Lou and Liz a cake that is a family tradition. We have given it the name of tomato soup cake, but what it really is is a spice cake. Mimi wanted them to have a taste of what our tradition is!

I am truly lucky and blessed to have all of my sisters. We all get along very well, I think you will be able to tell when you watch the videos. Although we acted sillier off air than on!

Thanks for coming with me today ladies! You are all wonderful! Another memory to add to the list!

Left Side

I am so conscious when I sleep during my pregnancies that I actually wake myself up if I go into a position I know is not good for the baby.

I was never a stomach sleeper, so there is no issue there. I always sleep on my side or back. I favor the right side, but I had read something that stated sleeping on your right side is not good for the baby. The left side is better. The blood flow to the baby is not obstructed, like it may be if you sleep on your right side.

So every night, I start out on the left side, a body pillow folded in half in between my knees and a special pregnancy wedge that I put under my stomach so it doesn't feel like Derek is dangling in mid air. This position, which takes a while to settle into, does not last long. I usually flip over to my back, where I make sure I am properly propped up, because laying flat on your back is not good either.

Makes me tired just writing about it!

Backorder

Today we ordered Derek's crib, dresser and six drawer chest. Only problem, everything won't be in until at least September 15th. Which means it won't be in my house until late September. Oh, that makes me nervous. He will be here no later than October 3rd. If you know me, or have been following my blog, you know I'm a planner. I would love for everything to be in at the end of August. But, since I plan, I already have a plan on how to arrange all his clean clothes, etc. until the furniture arrives. Always thinking!

Our night was completed with a fabulous dinner cooked by my Dad!

Two Toned

Our weekends consist of lots of pool time. I am a sun lover. I can lay there for hours soaking up the rays.

Only the front of me is tan. I can't flip over and lay on my stomach! Occasionally I will get some sun on my back chasing JoJo around the backyard, but there is an obvious difference.

Today I tried to even the tan out. I laid my arms across a raft and put a noodle under my legs. I drifted all over the pool. As I was floating away, Derek was in full motion. He was just dangling there in mid water. I think he really enjoyed it.

My back side looks a little darker, but still needs work.

Not So Hot

As the weather today, I am feeling, not so hot. I have been trying to fight this head cold. The cold won. I finally had to give in today.

Needless to say I have been doing a whole lot of nothing today. As I type I am taking swigs of orange juice to build up some vitamin C in my body.

Time for bed...

A+

As a teacher I know the importance of passing a test. It's been awhile since I had to take one, well actually it was a week ago, and I passed. Yes, I passed my glucose test. I am very excited because I failed the 1 hour in my first pregnancy so I was expecting the same result.

We went to the doctor today. Derek is doing very well, so well that when I asked the doctor if he is measuring the way he should, the doctor's eyes popped out of his head and "oh yes, bigger." Now, he won't talk numbers, but he said that he is big. Makes me feel better, somewhat explains the huge stomach I have!

I received all my paperwork for the scheduled c. I have to go to the hospital 2 days before and get my pre-admission blood work, then I will receive my hospital bracelets. C-section is is set for 7:30 am on the 3rd, but I have to be at the hospital at 6. Very exciting packet, full of much needed information.

I want to thank my friend Kristen for guiding me on how to put the baby countdown on my blog! Thanks Kristen!

Ahhhh

Pre-natal massage #2 today! Absolutely marvelous, once again! In my opinion, every single person needs to get a massage at least monthly. It should be mandatory.

Thank you again to Johnny of Body Mind Stress Management in Toms River.

I also want to thank Dr. Lombardi for donating $1000.00 gift certificates to April and myself. It's a good thing April was there to receive the gift, I may have tackled the poor man!

Preparing

Not only am I preparing my body to hopefully bounce back after Derek, we are preparing his room.

The way I am preparing my body is by going to The Atlantic Club and working out with my personal trainer Julianne. She is amazing. I want to thank her in advance for what I will hopefully look like after having Derek.

My brother-in-law and father-in-law came over today to help prepare JoJo's new room, which will allow us to move him and then prepare Derek's room for him. As I sat in what is going to be JoJo's new room today, I felt a little sad. My baby is no longer going to be my baby, he is a big boy, moving onto a big boy room. I know, I have to get over it, and I will, but I had a moment today.

As I was packing up some odds and ends I ran across the pack of hospital pictures from when JoJo was born. I pulled them out and looked at them. I can't tell you how excited they made me. I can't wait to hold my new little boy, to see what he looks like, to touch his little feet that kick me all the time. Less then 3 months to go! I am savoring every second of this pregnancy, but at the same time I look forward to having him in my arms!

Working It

To make up for the horrible food I ate yesterday, I met with my personal trainer today, and made another appointment for tomorrow! JoJo loved the Kid Zone (daycare in the gym).

After The Atlantic Club, JoJo and I went to Pottery Barn Kids. I take him there on Tuesdays at 11. They have a story time for kids. There are also little kitchen sets and such that the kids can play with. I have to say, they have a good thing going there. Of course while I was there, I shopped around. Both of my boy's bedrooms are decorated from Pottery Barn Kids. Today I was walking around looking at new sheets for Derek. I"m still up in the air if I am going to go with the solid blue chambray, or the gingham print??

Ended our day with a few fun filled hours at the boardwalk with my Mom and niece Victoria!

Calorie Counting - NOT!

Today I was bad. I wanted to eat everything. This is the first time in my whole pregnancy that I gave into a craving. I actually never crave anything, so today I went with the one and only craving I have had.

Breakfast was a bowl of healthy cereal. I ate lunch at 10:40, since I was ready to eat my arm. This is where it went bad. I was driving home from The Point, I was there today learning how to use the equipment and such, and on my way home I passed Burger King. I had no control over the car (I totally did, I had no control over myself).

Minutes later I was eating french fries and drinking a large pink lemonade.

Six months into the pregnancy and this was the first time I have done something like that. Not bad, but I feel guilty since I am blogging about it!

By the way, I ate dinner too!

Lazy Days of Summer

Sundays are my favorite day of the week. Today we just stayed home. Hard to believe because we are always running somewhere.

We hung out by the pool all day. As I was getting ready to go outside, I put on one of the many maternity bathing suits that I bought back in March. I bought them early so I wouldn't have a hard time finding them once summer came.

Today I chose the hot pink tank-kini maternity bathing suit. Now, my plan is for these bathing suits to last me the summer. I think by the end of August my stomach will be peaking through the bottom of some of them, the hot pink bathing suit being one!

Not a problem, I'll still sport it! :0)