31-37 weeks bumpdate: baby #2

It hardly seems possible that we're two weeks away from meeting baby #2. Didn't we just find out we were pregnant?! 

When people ask if we're ready, we say yes and no. No because his room isn't ready, all the clothes aren't washed, all the deep cleaning and house projects aren't finished...and the list goes on. (Literally, my to do list goes on forever...like painting our front door before he's born. Really? Who has time for that?!) But at the same time, I'm ready to meet him. I'm ready for heartburn to go away. I'm ready to at least be able to get comfortable when laying in bed, even if our sleep drastically decreases, at least I'll be comfortable! 

Crew was 9 lbs, 5 oz and I have a feeling Grey will be a big boy too. My belly is pretty close to the same size as I was with Crew and boy does it feel like he's huge when he's stretching his feet and legs up against my ribs! With Crew I gained 40 lbs and this time I hadn't been keeping up with my weight so I asked the doctor last week what my total gain was so far. It was only 26 lbs! I 100% attribute that to chasing Crew around and lifting that little 33 lb chunk all the time! I joke all the time and say that my water is going to break one of these days when I'm picking Crew up because I have to strain so hard! Ha! I have played it in my mind a hundred times!

I told my doctor last week (36 week check up) that I thought Grey had dropped some because I could feel his movements much lower than I had been able to. Well I was right and he's pretty low. No dilation yet though! We'll see if I've made any progress this Friday!

As far as symptoms lately, of course there is constant heartburn. (Never really had this with Crew) I feel like I just look at food and my chest starts burning! I had braxton hicks a lot around 33-44 weeks and then they went away until this past week. Braxton hicks, sharp pains and cramps have been going on quite often the past several days. (Trying not to think anything of it all because I don't want to psych myself out thinking that he's going to come early!) I also have been getting so much less sleep lately! A lot of it is because Grey is a night owl! He kicks and stretches all through the night and his feet have been up in my ribs 24/7. He's already preparing me for getting back on a newborn's sleep schedule! I've been just so exhausted lately and take advantage of Crew's nap time on my two days off a week. I hope this all doesn't come across as complaining! I really have such easy pregnancies and am so thankful for that! I can't wait to meet this little chunk!

It's scary that 9 months of worry is about to come to an end - Worry about how Crew will transition to being a big brother. I don't want him to feel left out or ignored once Grey is born. I have no doubt that he'll be a fantastic brother, I just am scared about how we will all transition as a new family of four. I still want him to feel just as important and loved as he does now! I know God is in control of all and has orchestrated our new addition to His perfect timing so I'm just praying for guidance in this area as well!

27-30 weeks bumpdate: baby #2

I had a bad streak with my pictures during weeks 26-28. They didn't happen. Partly because I thought I was 26 weeks when I was actually 27 (whoops!) and partly because well, it just didn't happen. It takes two seconds, but somehow 3 weeks had gone by and no pictures.

I had my glucose test (passed) and 3D ultrasound at 28 weeks. Grey looks EXACTLY like Crew on the ultrasound...his profile and everything. I can't wait to see how much they resemble each other. At 28 weeks, he was already 3 lbs and measuring a week ahead. I think we've got another big boy on our hands!

I've already been feeling so tired again into this third trimester. I'm sure a lot of it has to do with chasing Crewboo around...and also the fact that Grey will be here in 2 months or less (whoa!) and I'm getting huge! I really love and appreciate naps when I can get one!

These are the differences I've noticed so far between this pregnancy and the first:

Acne
The first time I only broke out a little in the first trimester and then at the very end | With this one, my face has been broken out the. entire. time. and it's making me crazy.

Hormones
I haven't been near as emotional this time around. I didn't say "not emotional," just not as emotional!

Soreness
The first time around, I didn't really start feeling pelvic soreness until at least 33 weeks | This time I've been hurting for at least 8 weeks already

Back Pain
Back pain both times, just different places

Restless Legs
Last time I had terrible restless legs every single night. I couldn't go to sleep unless I took a really hot shower right before getting in bed. | This time, (knock on wood) it hasn't been near as bad. Usually just once a week.

Those are just what I can think of off the top of my head right now. Luckily it's generally been another easy pregnancy. Can't believe we'll be meeting him in 2 months!

first trimester

14-26 weeks

14-26 week bumpdate, 2nd trimester recap: baby #2

How am I already entering the third trimester?! I've done terrible with documenting everything from this pregnancy. I also think that I just didn't have as much to document because I was either too busy with Crew to notice or I had already experienced so many of the "pregnancy symptoms" and just didn't think much of them. Either way, here are the things I do remember about the last 10+ weeks!

We found out the gender on December 23rd and had our gender reveal on the 24th! I was almost 16 weeks at that point. The ultrasound tech at the doctor tried to determine the gender at my 15 week appointment, but baby boy had his legs crossed and was sleeping so that didn't work. This wasn't a scheduled ultrasound, but I had convinced my doctor to let me try since we had all our family in town and it would be "the perfect time for a reveal!" Once I found out it was possible to know the gender at 15 weeks, I just had to find out in time for a Christmas surprise. I found a Groupon for a local ultrasound place and they were the ones who determined it was a boy! Of course, we have made sure to confirm at our doctor's office also!

The heartburn! Oh, the heartburn! I didn't have heartburn with Crew until much, much later in the pregnancy so that's one thing that is different. Tums are my best friend at this point. They seem to work pretty well especially if I take some at the first signs so I haven't felt the need to try any other medication...yet. 

The other major thing that has been different this time is the extreme soreness and pain in my pelvic region. Again, I didn't feel like this until at least 33 weeks with Crew and it's been going on this time since around 21-22 weeks and is just getting worse. It started out as just an a.m. nuisance when I got up in the morning, but now it's pretty constant and pretty much whenever I move. Hot showers seem to help (aka my answer to any ailment), but I haven't found much relief past that. 

I got a terrible rash all over my belly at about 23 weeks and it was so itchy. I kept it lathered in Aquaphor most of the time and took Benadryl at night so I wasn't up all night scratching. I vaguely remember this same thing happening when I was pregnant with Crew, but I have no idea why it did. Luckily I only had it for about 2 weeks and my belly is back to "normal!"

This was at 24 weeks

There hasn't been too much more that has been going on lately. It is getting a little more difficult to pick up my 32-pounder so we'll see how that goes the rest of the pregnancy. I told Will that we're going to have to get a step stool for Crew to get in and out of his crib when I'm the only one home! He's a chunk!

There's a baby boom going on with our closest friends at church and I love it! One sweet baby has been born since this photo and the twins will be here any day now! So excited for my friends!

first trimester recap: baby #2

Being pregnant this time around is already so different than when I was pregnant with Crew. Having a toddler to chase around all day definitely distracts me from counting as each week slowly rolls by. It's not slow...and somehow I'm already in the second trimester. 

If you haven't noticed, this blog has taken a backseat since Crew has been born and I'm totally ok with that. Between working outside of the home, spending time with Crew and Will after work, and then focusing on my business after Crew's bedtime, that barely leaves time for anything else. Regardless, I still want to document this pregnancy as much as possible. I love going back to Crew's pregnancy and remembering how I was feeling at each point because so many details have already slipped my mind. With #1, I would focus/worry/dwell on every little ache and pain I felt because it was all so new. With #2, half the time I don't even have time to notice how I'm feeling!

Early on, I had some heartburn which got me wondering if this baby was a girl. I didn't have heartburn with Crew until 30+ weeks. I bought some Tums...and then never had heartburn again! So strange. I never even opened them. Besides that one tiny difference, this pregnancy has been very similar to the first. I had nausea off and on, but haven't felt sick in several weeks now. With Crew, the only time I actually threw up was when I was in labor. Hopefully I can hold out that long again with this one!

I thought the exhaustion was rough the first time around...add a busy little one year old to the mix and it's a whole new level! I've had several days of feeling like I wasn't able to keep my eyes open at work. Waiting for the second trimester to bring back my energy!

I have no feeling anymore of whether the baby is a boy or girl. Will thinks boy and a lot of our friends think girl. I've been almost leaning towards boy again because the pregnancies have been so similar so I guess we'll find out VERY soon! Baby's heart rate was 168 at our first ultrasound, but I'm not believing in the heart rate gender estimate because I have friend's whose babies have proven that to be very wrong!

I don't know if I've really been craving anything lately, but there are definitely things that always sound good and I could eat them at any time of the day. Mashed potatoes. Spaghetti. Pickles (but specifically the ones from Firehouse Subs - so weird).

The bump has for sure grown faster than it did with #1, but that's probably also because I wasn't as small as I was before this pregnancy than I was before the first.

We have an appointment tomorrow and I'm looking forward to hearing the heartbeat!

39 weeks...the LAST bumpdate!

As you read this, we'll be in the hospital waiting to meet our sweet baby! Be sure to follow me on Instagram for updates and to see when Crew makes his debut into the world! @courtkassner

How far along are you?

39 weeks! It's so hard to believe we'll be meeting our son TODAY!!

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a watermelon - His brain is still rapidly developing - His fingernails may extend past his fingertips - We'll find out his exact weight today!

Weight Gain? 

32 lbs.

I'm ready to start working towards my pre-baby body!

 Gender?

a boy!

Maternity Clothes?

Yep

Stretch Marks?

A few on the bottom of my belly since about 35 weeks

 Sleep?

I haven't been sleeping well through the night, but that's nothing new. I'm sure it's just nerves mixed with being so large and uncomfortable! Since being off work for a week now, I've been able to sleep in every morning and try and stock up on some sleep hours!

Symptoms?

Nausea - reflux - face breakouts - cramping

Movement?

He's had his feet crammed up against my ribs this past week and it's been so uncomfortable! I've got to sit up extra straight to try and give myself some more breathing room!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

neither

Labor Signs?

Right now...yes!

Belly Button in or out?

Out

What I miss?

Being mobile!

What I am looking forward to?

Meeting our son TODAY!

Best moment of the week?

Obviously, we're having Crew today

Daddy's feeling?
"Holy moly! This is really happening! I keep trying to think about what its going to be like to hold Crew for the first time...but I don't know what to think because I know that actually holding him will be more awesome than anything I can imagine. I can't wait to meet our son. I can't wait to be a dad with the most amazing mom in the world. What a blessing!" 

I’m feeling?

I'm nervous about how labor will go. I'm anxious. I'm just ready to hold Crew in my arms. It's so crazy to think about how one minute he'll be in my belly and the next we'll be holding him and kissing him. I can't wait!

38 weeks

Oops! Forgot to post this last week! Pregnancy brain!

I'm feeling tired and puffy...can you tell?! Ha!

How far along are you?
38 weeks!! Still having a hard time believing that could be here any day now!

How big is Baby?
He's the size of a pumpkin...appropriate for this (maybe) October baby - His head is about the same circumference as his abdomen - His head could be covered in an inch of hair - He has a firm grasp - His organs have all matured and he's ready to be born...I hope!

Weight Gain? 
32 lbs.
We finally bought a scale so I can keep up with weight loss after baby. I fluctuate between 1-2 lbs. each day. I think it really just depends on when I'm weighing myself and what I've eaten. Of course, I always like the early morning weigh-ins the best!

 Gender?
a boy!

Maternity Clothes?
Yep...same ol' same ol'
I am getting pretty tired of this pink striped shirt though!

Stretch Marks?
Yes :( a few on the bottom of my belly since about 35 weeks

 Sleep?
It's been so-so. I am so tired all the time, but just can't get comfortable in bed or keep having to get up for the bathroom...which is quite a task with this massive belly!

Symptoms?
A little bit of nausea every day - I've been having some sharp pains off and on since Saturday, but have no idea what they are. I'm thinking Crew is just on some nerves or something when he's moving around. - My face has been breaking out again

Movement?
He is stretching and pushing around a lot now

Food Cravings/Aversions?
Craving apple-flavored things

Labor Signs?
I don't think so?

Belly Button in or out?
Out

What I miss?
Being able to move around quickly/easily!

What I am looking forward to?
Meeting our son!

Best moment of the week?
Today was my last day of work...officially on maternity leave! I'm so relieved and excited to just focus on having Crew now.

I’m feeling?
READY. I still can't believe we'll be meeting our baby any day now! I'm trying to use these few days off work (pre-baby) to cross off all our to-do list items.

Doctor’s report?
At my appointment on Thursday my doctor decided that if Crew does not come on his own next week, then we will induce on Thursday, Oct. 3rd. I cannot believe we are less than a week away.

Check out weeks 12-37 bumpdates here!

37 weeks

I get so behind on posting these as they "should" be posted every Sunday or Monday. Oh well!


How far along are you?
37 weeks...holy cow, I'm full term!

How big is Baby?
He's the size of a wintermelon (never heard of it) - He's gaining about an 1/2 ounce per day - He weighs anywhere between 6.2 and 9.2 lbs. That's a pretty big range, but that's what The Bump tells me. I'm guessing he's in the 7 lb. range at this point.

Weight Gain?
32 lbs.

 Gender?
a boy!

Maternity Clothes?
Same answer as always...tired of wearing the same thing over and over. (Especially when I'm starting to outgrow some maternity items at this point!) He needs to hurry and come out because I can't afford to start a Fall maternity wardrobe!!

Stretch Marks?
Yes :( Sadly I've gotten some on the bottom of my stomach. I can't see them when looking down, but I can see them in the mirror.

 Sleep?
Still not sleeping well. It's so hard to roll over or change positions.

Symptoms?
I've started getting nausea off and on again for some reason - Dizziness - low back pain/cramping

Movement?
He stretches out a lot and I seem to always be able to find a foot sticking out on the side of my belly

Food Cravings/Aversions?
No cravings. Nothing ever sounds good to me and I can't eat as much as I could 5 weeks ago. I get full much quicker now.

Labor Signs?
I don't know...maybe? With every "new" ache/pain I feel I wonder, "Is this it?? Is my water about to break?" Haha - I've been having more cramps and back cramps lately and I just feel different sometimes.

Belly Button in or out?
Basically out

What I miss?
Laying on my stomach
NOT having restless legs every single night

What I am looking forward to?
Having this baby!!
We are so close to getting the nursery done

Best moment of the week?
We finished the accent wall in Crew's room and I can't wait for everyone to see it! It's definitely my favorite part of the nursery.
Being full term!

Daddy’s feeling?
"It's hard to believe that Crew could come any minute now! It's been such a great adventure so far and I can't wait for the adventure to be even better. Every day is filled with excitement as we anxiously await his arrival. We are definitely ready to hold our little Crew!"

I’m feeling?
Tired and achy. I am so ready for him to be here and wonder every day when it will happen. I'm trying to not get my hopes up that he could come early, but it is always in the back of my mind. Today, September 20, was actually our original due date before it got moved back to October 6. Maybe he'll surprise us!

Doctor’s report?
As of my appointment today I am a little over 60% effaced and still not dilated. My doctor says he doesn't want me going past my due date so at least I know there is a maximum of two weeks left. But I'm still hoping he decides to come on his own...before his due date!

36 weeks

I look down at my belly every day thinking it doesn't really look that big...until I see these photos each week! Ha!

How far along are you?

36 weeks! (Although at this point I'm one day away from 37)

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a honeydew - He's working on getting that baby soft skin right now - His liver, kidneys, immune system and circulatory system are all fully functioning and developed - His lungs are still maturing, but if he were to be born now he would be ok

Weight Gain?

At last week's appointment, 30 lbs.

At today's appointment, 29 lbs. Woohoo!

 Gender?

a sweet boy

Maternity Clothes?

Yes, and I'm sick of them!

Stretch Marks?

In the last week I got a few on the underneath side of my belly. I can't really even see them, but unfortunately that means they're still there.

 Sleep?

This was a long week for a lot of reasons. I've be so completely exhausted both physically and mentally/emotionally. However, on Wednesday, I fell into bed around 7:30pm and (with the exception of waking up for an hour in the middle of the night) didn't get up until 7:30 the next morning. I felt so refreshed. I wish I could sleep like that every night. The next night I was back to my usual tossing & turning and being wide awake for hours on end.

Symptoms?

Tired and uncomfortable - pelvic discomfort/pain - sore in general

Movement?

He jabs me all the time when he's stretching out. He also has hiccups a lot and Will & I love watching the rhythm on my belly

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Still loving sweets and back to wanting grape juice again.

There's really never any food that sounds good to me. I can't eat as much anymore and am apparently a lot slower at eating according to Will!

Labor Signs?

I had some cramping/back cramping this week off and on but that's it

Belly Button in or out?

half and half

What I miss?

Sleeping on my stomach; being able to get around easily/walk fast!

What I am looking forward to?

Being full term in one day!

Working on the nursery tomorrow

Best moment of the week?

We had a great last baby shower last Sunday - I'll hopefully be posting photos of that soon

Good news at the doc today (see below for details)

Daddy’s feeling?

"I really can't believe that Crew is almost here. It seems like yesterday that we were announcing we were pregnant. I can't believe I'm about to be a Dad with the most wonderful Mom and wife in the world. It's all just so amazing. God is good!"

I'm feeling?

^ Emotional after reading that! ^

Better after my appointment today. I am not dilated, but I'm 50-60% effaced. According to my doc, effacement comes first, then dilation. Effacement is also the culprit of my back cramping. I was happy to hear I had made some progress after this long week. He gave me his phone numbers just in case we were to need him after hours.

Also, have I mentioned before how thankful I am for Will?? He has been so sweet to me this week (like he is every week). I was so emotional this week as well as tired and just achy. He has consoled me and taken such good care of me. I got a good one!

35 weeks

Our due date is exactly one month from today. WOW.

Also, I think my belly is just getting pointier and pointier!

How far along are you?

35 weeks!

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a coconut - He's about as long as he'll get before being born, but he'll put on at least a pound of fat before birth - His kidneys are fully developed

Weight Gain?

27lbs

 Gender?

a sweet boy

Maternity Clothes?

Yes, and some of them are too little now!

Stretch Marks?

Well...I think I've noticed the beginning of a few on the right/underneath side of my belly. So sad!
My belly has been really itchy lately so I'm trying hard not to scratch it!

 Sleep?

Still struggling with being uncomfortable and restless legs every night. My hips always hurt from sleeping on my side. Almost every night I just lie in bed going through our to-do list before Crew comes or even my work to-do list before Crew comes. I don't mind being kept awake by Crew, but I get mad at myself for losing sleep over work.
For some reason, I slept SO GOOD in Nashville on the first night of our babymoon. The bed, cold room temp, and down comforter made the perfect combo. I wish I could sleep like that every night!

Symptoms?

Just a general feeling of being so tired and uncomfortable all the time!

Back/rib pain, acid reflux, pelvic/groin pain

Movement?

Yes, his movements are less of the "kicking" feeling and more stretching and jabbing

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Neither

Labor Signs?

not yet... I got nervous on the babymoon because I started having bad cramps when we were out shopping one day, but luckily it went away after going back to the hotel and lying down for a while.

Belly Button in or out?

half and half

What I miss?

Sleeping on my stomach

What I am looking forward to?

Our third and final baby shower is this weekend!

His nursery rug should be here next week

Finishing the nursery
Doctor appointment today...hopefully I'll find out if things have progressed since last time I was there

Best moment of the week?

Our babymoon was so great!

Daddy’s feeling?
"Almost time for Crew! I can't say how excited I am for little man to be here. It's going to be awesome!"

I'm feeling?

I'm tired of being pregnant and just want Crew to be here! I'm just so sore/achy all the time and move so slow. I've been crying a lot again too. Something totally random/unrelated to pregnancy can happen and I'll just start crying because of being uncomfortable/in pain/frustrated with being pregnant. (I know, makes zero sense.) Poor Will.

Check out weeks 12-34 bumpdates here!

34 weeks

How far along are you?

34 weeks! Woohoo!

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a butternut squash (I'm really getting tired of all the squash references...) - He can recognize songs now, which means I'm sure he'll be VERY used to Will's voice once he's born! Ha! - He's somewhere around 5lbs 

Weight Gain?

27lbs

 Gender?

a sweet boy

Maternity Clothes?

duh

Stretch Marks?

None on the belly. Maybe I'll be able to avoid them

 Sleep?

Terrible.

Symptoms?

Sleepy all the time, shortness of breath, occasional swollen ankles

Movement?

YES, he jabs me all the time. I don't think he sleeps much anymore!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Neither

Labor Signs?

not yet...

Belly Button in or out?

half and half

What I miss?

laying on my stomach - sleeping - getting around easily

What I am looking forward to?

Our babymoon!! Finally!

Still waiting on our glider to be delivered; also bought the area rug this week and am waiting on that to be delivered too! His nursery is slowly coming together.

Best moment of the week?

We had baby shower #2 last Sunday and it was great!

Enjoyed the breastfeeding class we took last Saturday and learned a lot

Officially started washing baby clothes!

Daddy’s feeling?

"Can't believe that we are doing baby laundry! It is a crazy feeling seeing all of Crew's clothes around the laundry room...it's starting to feel like he's already here. I get more excited every day and am hoping that he comes a little early so we can meet him! Love that little guy!"

I'm feeling?
I think I'm getting to that point where I'm tired of being pregnant. It was another rough week. Still having pelvic pains and unfortunately getting "used" to hurting all the time.
After our maternity photos last week I woke up with something like bug bites all over my back and belly. They were so itchy and I figured something must have gotten in my shirt. By Friday, the bumps had turned into huge red rashes everywhere and were driving me crazy. Saturday was the worst and I may have had a tiny breakdown before our breastfeeding class because I was so itchy AND had Google-diagnosed myself with PEP/PUPPPS. (This meant that the rashes weren't going away until after delivery...) I cried so much and just kept saying that I was tired of being pregnant and wanted Crew out of me. Poor Will for having to deal with me! (If it makes it sound any better, I have really loved being pregnant and have had such an easy pregnancy compared to most!) Luckily, as of today, the rashes are fading and aren't itchy anymore. Thank goodness. That was an answer to a hysterical pregnant lady's prayers! Haha!
As if all that wasn't enough I have been sick with a cold/sinus issues all week AND have been super stressed at work. Pity party much? I'll just say that our babymoon could not have come at a better time and I am so excited to have a long weekend with Will.

Check out weeks 12-33 bumpdates here!

33 weeks

Granted, I'm closer to 34 weeks now, but better late than never, right?!

How far along are you?

33 weeks...SO ready for Crew to be here.

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a durian fruit (whatever that is) - He could grow up to an inch this week alone! - His brain is still growing and he's practicing sucking and swallowing - He's started keeping his eyes open when he's awake - He's gaining a 1/2 lb. a week now

Weight Gain?

27 lbs - I've lost a pound since last week. Woo!

 Gender?

a boy! Crew William Kassner

Maternity Clothes?

Of course

Stretch Marks?

none on the belly

 Sleep?

I can't go to sleep unless I take a hot shower before bed so my calf muscles will relax. Otherwise, my restless legs take over and make me crazy! I've been so tired lately and it's just getting harder and harder to sleep thru the night AND it's getting harder and harder to get out of bed in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom.

Symptoms?

It's been a rough week. I had an unplanned doctor's visit Wednesday because of pain that I was having. Basically, I told Will that it felt like my pubic bone was breaking. I'm up and down a lot at work and walking just seemed impossible. The pain had been building since Sunday or Monday. I wasn't sure if this was "normal" or not so I called to talk to my doc. They told me to come in just so he could check me and be sure everything was ok. I felt ridiculous when he explained to me that what I was feeling was normal. He said that as my body is preparing for delivery the pubic bones are separating and ligaments are stretching. He also said that Crew was positioned on some nerves and that was causing pain too. He checked to see if I was dilated at all and luckily I'm not yet, but he said Crew's head was "already pretty far down." According to the doc, that doesn't necessarily mean he'll come early so we'll see! Hopefully this pain goes away soon!

Other symptoms this week have been: acne made a comeback and my ankles were swollen for the first time for two days this week. 

Movement?

Interesting fact: I read that the amniotic fluid level has maxed out which is why his movements/jabs/kicks seem sharper...There's less "cushion" to soften his karate kicks! I told Will that Crew has been awfully pushy this week. I'm sure he's running out of room and just trying to stretch out!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Nothing

Labor Signs?

not yet

Belly Button in or out?

half and half :)

What I miss?

Just being able to move around/get up and down easily

What I am looking forward to?

Baby shower #2 this Sunday

Babymoon next weekend!

CREW being born!

Best moment of the week?

Maternity photos were on Monday - can't wait to see them!

We got the crib mattress this week and will also be getting our glider/ottoman delivered too

Daddy’s feeling?

"Well I'm predicting that Crew will be 7lbs. 12 oz. (Just wanted to throw that out there)! Everything is starting to sink in around here; pretty soon Courtney and I will be parents! I can't wait for Crew to be here with his little smile and happy face. He's going to be awesome!"

I'm feeling?

Worn out, tired, achy, anxious, nervous....

BUT also so, so excited to have a son

Check out weeks 12-32 bumpdates here!

32 weeks

How far along are you?

32 weeks - It has flown by so far, but I'm worried that time is going to start dragging now that we're getting so close! I'm ready to meet our son!

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a squash (I pictured a yellow squash when I read about this week, but apparently the squash that thebump.com is talking about looks like a pumpkin) - I found out that at our last ultrasound (3 weeks ago) he weighed 3lbs 13oz, so by now he should be over 4lbs! - He's about 17 inches long - He's fattening up and preparing for life outside of my belly! - His heart rate at the doctor yesterday was 146bpm. He gave the doctor a hard time when trying to get his heartbeat because he kept jerking around and kicking the monitor. I was laughing on the inside after having to wait 3 hours to see the doc!

Weight Gain? 

Yikes, 28lbs. If I gain a pound a week like I'm supposed to at this point I should stay within the "healthy" 35lb range by delivery.

 Gender?

a boy! Crew William Kassner

Maternity Clothes?

Yep - I bought a chiffon maxi dress from Pink Blush Maternity and it was too small for my growing belly!

Stretch Marks?

none on the belly

 Sleep?

So-so. I've been so tired feeling lately that I can usually get to sleep pretty easily. I've even managed to go to sleep before Will for the past week which is a big deal! Last night I couldn't sleep because I kept thinking about all I have going on at work. My promotion gave me a lot of extra responsibilities so I'm just trying to make sure everything will run smoothly once Crew is here.

Symptoms?

I am just achy all over. My hips/groin area is always real sore, especially in the mornings. Last Friday I went home from work early because I was feeling a lot of pressure. I could have sworn he had moved down! My legs are still restless at night and I usually have to get in the shower before bed so the hot water will relax my muscles. My back hurts a lot, but chiropractic visits every 1-2 weeks is really helping.

Movement?

He's getting bigger and stronger every day! My belly is always lopsided it seems!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Not really anything - but I can't ever turn down a bowl of vanilla ice cream at night

Labor Signs?

not yet

Belly Button in or out?

half and half :)

What I miss?

Will was laying in the bed on his stomach yesterday and I got pretty jealous!

What I am looking forward to?

The nursery is coming along

Our babymoon in two weeks

Two more baby showers

Maternity pictures next Monday with the amazing Kelly Ginn Photography

Best moment of the week?

We had our first baby shower last weekend and loved it!

We also purchased the glider and ottoman for the nursery finally! We weren't a fan of spending that money, but I know it will look great once it gets here.

Daddy’s feeling?

"Starting to get a little nervous...Crew is almost here!! (But I'm pretty sure he's going to be the perfect kid!) And I can't wait for the babymoon with the Mrs! Time with her is as good as it gets!"

I'm feeling?

I promise that Will really did write that comment above! Haha

I'm just uncomfortable and anxious. My body is ready for him to be here, while my mind and my to-do list keep reminding me that he needs to stay in there a while longer. I know he'll come when he's ready and it's all in God's timing. BUT if he wanted to come soon, I'd be ok with that! (Even if the nursery isn't done!) I'm just ready to meet our little man!

In other news, I'm excited that my face doesn't look quite as puffy as it did in last week's photo!

Check out weeks 12-31 bumpdates here!

31 weeks

How far along are you?

31 weeks! Hard to believe he'll be here in 9 weeks (or less?!)

How big is Baby?

He is the size of a pineapple - His irises now react to light - All 5 senses are functioning - He can turn his head from side to side - He's over 3 lbs and heading into a growth spurt!

Weight Gain?

24 lbs

 Gender?

a boy!

Maternity Clothes?

Of course...this week I fit into a non-maternity dress and shirt. It was great.

Stretch Marks?

none on the belly

 Sleep?

It actually hasn't been too bad over this past week. Once I can get my restless legs to chill out, I'm ok and usually sleep through the night minus the bathroom breaks.

Symptoms?

Reflux/heartburn - shortness of breath (I read that once he drops, it will be a lot easier to breathe! Hopefully that's true) - my pelvis has been really sore in the mornings for some reason

Movement?

All the time - This week I was driving home from work and was able to feel a heel (?) sticking out on the side of my belly while being able to feel something sticking out by my belly button at the same time. I think he's getting squished! Will's favorite thing to do is to lay his head on my belly and try and get Crew to kick him

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Not much either way - My favorite food everyday is the strawberry/banana mixture that Will makes me for a work snack. So juicy and delicious!

Labor Signs?

No - and I don't think I've had any Braxton Hicks either

Belly Button in or out?

half and half

What I miss?

Being able to get up and down/out of the bed easily

What I am looking forward to?

Our first baby shower is this weekend! It's a couples shower for church so I know Will is excited about it too

Best moment of the week?

Painting the nursery and getting the crib put up!

Daddy’s feeling?

"So ready for Crew to get here! I'm predicting that he comes about two weeks early...he's been champion boxing in Courtney's belly every night! He's going to be an awesome baby!"

I'm feeling?

BIG. Especially when looking at these weekly pictures. I don't like how my face is ballooning like my belly! I get so excited/happy when thinking about meeting Crew for the first time. I daydream about what he'll look like and even what our lives will look like once he's here.

Check out weeks 12-30 bumpdates here!

30 weeks

How far along are you?

30 weeks - I can't believe he will be here in 10 weeks or less. Wow.

How big is Baby?

He is the length of a large cucumber (though I've never seen a cucumber this large) - He measures between 15.2 and 16.7 inches and weighs somewhere around 3 pounds - His wrinkly skin is smoothing out as he develops more baby fat - His brain is growing every day - His grip is now strong enough to grasp a finger

Weight Gain?

24 lbs.

 Gender?

a boy!

Maternity Clothes?

same ol', same ol'

Stretch Marks?

none on my belly

 Sleep?

Terrible...I'm so tired all the time, but can never get to sleep

Symptoms?

Headaches are back - back stiffness/achiness - my legs and hips have also been really sore in the mornings - shortness of breath - tired

Movement?

He's been very pushy lately! Sometimes it seems like he's trying to bust out!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Still loving sweets

Labor Signs?

No - may have had braxton hicks contraction the other day when we were on a walk, but I'm not positive

Belly Button in or out?

I think it's on the move out. Crew has been pushed up against that part of my belly the past few days which makes it stick out more!

What I miss?

laying on my stomach - being able to get up/down easily

What I am looking forward to?

Getting the nursery painted finally and our upcoming baby showers

Best moment of the week?

Picking out a paint color for the nursery! Yes, you read that right. I finally decided on one I liked. It's about time.

Found out I passed my glucose screening

Got a bunch of baby  boy clothes from a friend and started organizing the closet

Finding the perfect dresser on Craigslist for the nursery to repurpose

Daddy’s feeling?

"Can't wait for Crew to get here! We have his paint color picked out and will be done with his nursery soon!"

I'm feeling?

Tired. Between being in the third trimester and changes at work, I am just plain worn out. I recently got a promotion at work which brought on a lot of extra responsibilities so by the time 5:00 rolls around, I'm just ready for dinner and bed. (Don't get me wrong though, we are so thankful for that promotion and how it's helping us out financially! It's really an answer to prayer.) I have so many things I want to blog/write about, but just have not had any time. I don't even want to look at a computer by the end of the day...especially not when I could be in bed resting with my husband and puppies! Hopefully I can get some posts ready this weekend!

I also discovered that the crazy pregnancy hormones come back during the 3rd trimester this week. Will was really making me laugh the other day. He was on a roll. I laughed so hard until I cried....but then I just started bawling. Poor Will. His eyes were huge and I could tell he had no idea what was going on or what to say. I didn't even know what was going on! In the middle of my sobs I just kept saying, "I don't know why I'm crying, I don't know why I'm crying..." Of course, we went back to laughing about it right afterwards, but boy can pregnancy make you do some crazy things!

Check out weeks 12-29 bumpdates here!

29 weeks

How far along are you?

29 weeks!

How big is Baby?

He's the size of an acorn squash - He has increased energy due to white fat cells depositing under his skin - His weight will triple in the next 11 weeks! - He weighs anywhere between 2.5-3.8 lbs

Weight Gain?

As of yesterday's appointment, I am up 24 lbs. I know I shouldn't be concerned about my weight but it just keeps rising and I don't like it! As long as Crew is growing and getting all the nutrients he needs, that's all that matters. I just need to quit looking at the scale.

 Gender?

a sweet little boy...confirmed at the ultrasound yesterday! Whew!

Maternity Clothes?

Yes and I officially outgrew my first maternity shirt. It just got too short and I needed more fabric to cover the belly!

Stretch Marks?

Not on my belly

 Sleep?

Sleep has been getting harder and harder...again. I just can never get comfortable. I'm tired of lying on my sides and just want to sleep flat on my back or on my stomach.

Symptoms?

Low back pain, sore hips and shoulders from sleeping, restless legs, started to get tired again like the first trimester, headaches

Movement?

All the time! Will and I have enjoyed watching my belly move all around the past few nights.

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Still wanting sweets a lot...cookies, cake, candy, ice cream

Labor Signs?

No

Belly Button in or out?

Flat

What I miss?

Sleeping how I want

What I am looking forward to?

Really getting things going on the nursery

Best moment of the week?

Our "28" week appointment yesterday. It was supposed to be last week, but since Will was in China and we were getting a 3D ultrasound, I postponed it a week. My mom and Will's mom were also able to come to the ultrasound. I had my glucose test and am still waiting on the results. The drink wasn't too terrible, but I was definitely ready to be done with it once I was getting to the bottom of the bottle. I was feeling fine/normal for a while until we got to the doctor's office and started feeling nauseated. Then when I was getting the ultrasound I got super lightheaded/hot and had to sit up for a few minutes. I just knew I was about to pass out. (I've already got blood sugar issues so I know what that "about to faint feeling" feels like!) Luckily, it passed and I was able to stay conscious the entire time! Ha.
Crew is measuring right on time and is already head-down. I couldn't believe he's already "in position." I guess I thought it would be a few more weeks before anything happened. The doctor said he'll stay that way until he's born so I was relieved. His legs are all curled up under my left ribs. He had his arms covering his face the entire time so we weren't able to see too much during the 3D ultrasound. We did see some chubby cheeks which I LOVE! The sonographer tried for so long to move him around so we could see his face but he wasn't budging. He was snoozing and so comfy. We finally gave up once I had to keep sitting up from feeling sick. His heart rate was 148 bpm.

Daddy’s feeling?

"So excited we got to see Crew on the 3D ultrasound yesterday! Grateful for a healthy baby and a healthy momma!"

Check out weeks 12-28 bumpdates!

28 weeks

Is it just me, or does anyone else think their belly goes from really big one day to looking "smaller" the next? Look at last week's bumpdate. I swear it's bigger!

How far along are you?

28 weeks! (11.5 to go....ahh!)

How big is Baby?

He is the size of an eggplant - His lungs are mature enough now that if he were to be born early he would be able to survive - He's still working on plumping up with baby fat - He opens and closes his eyes and has eyelashes now

Weight Gain? 

16 lbs.

 Gender?

a boy!

Maternity Clothes?

Yes and I'm still tired of wearing the same thing over and over.

Stretch Marks?

Not on my belly

 Sleep?

Hasn't been great. I wake up a lot more now like I did about 10 weeks ago. I've also been waking up an hour before my alarm goes off. Why?!

Symptoms?

Low back pain, breathlessness, restless legs, some cramping

Movement?

I feel him moving all day long and I love it. Not only do I feel the kicks and punches, but I'm more able to feel his slow movements/stretches now too. I can always seem to find a foot or booty in there somewhere! At work this week I felt him pushing really hard against my belly and I was pushing back with my hand. He's so strong already! 

Food Cravings/Aversions?

not really anything either way

Labor Signs?

No

Belly Button in or out?

Flat

What I miss?

Same as last week - being able to bend over/get up and down easily

What I am looking forward to?

Picking Will up from the airport this weekend

Our appointment next week and ultrasound

Best moment of the week?

Being able to feel Crew all the time and Will coming home from China

I'm feeling?

Still pretty overwhelmed thinking of all we have to do in the next 11.5 weeks. I just found out that the crib we registered for got discontinued so we have to pick out a new one. That's pretty frustrating! I loved that crib! I'm also still on the hunt for some perfect furniture from Craiglist to refurb for the nursery. I thought I had found the perfect piece yesterday, but it had already been sold. Just my luck!

Check out weeks 12-27 bumpdates here!

27 weeks

How far along are you?

27 weeks! Officially in the THIRD trimester! I can't believe it.

How big is Baby?

He's the size of a rutabaga (I have no clue what that is!) - His lungs are still developing and he's practicing inhaling and exhaling - His weight is anywhere from 2-2.5 lbs. and he measures between 14-15 inches from head to toe - He now sleeps and wakes at regular intervals

Weight Gain? 

16 lbs.

 Gender?

a boy!

Maternity Clothes?

Yes and still loving Will's t-shirts for around the house

Stretch Marks?

not on my belly

 Sleep?

I feel like my sleep is going downhill again. Besides the usual getting up for the bathroom, I wake up several times because I can't get comfortable and just toss and turn because of restless legs or my hips/back hurting.

Symptoms?

Back pain should be subsiding after Monday's chiropractic appointment. My right ribs still irritate me all the time. My belly has been itchy lately (possibly from the sun last week) and I have been trying not to scratch so those stretch marks don't make an appearance.

Movement?

It seems like we've been able to feel his feet/elbows almost every day now. I love it! I haven't been able to feel him hiccup yet. I think he likes to hang out on the right side of my belly. Sometimes I look down and my belly looks lopsided!

Food Cravings/Aversions?

Nothing this week. I ate Mexican at the beach last week and it didn't make me feel sick. Woohoo!

Labor Signs?

no

Belly Button in or out?

Still flat

What I miss?

Being able-bodied

What I am looking forward to?

Next ultrasound at 29 weeks
Also, Will hasn't left for China yet, but I'm already looking forward to him being home!
Deciding on color for nursery and hunting for furniture

Best moment of the week?

Will coming home last Saturday and feeling how strong Crew had gotten since he left!

Daddy’s feeling?

"So ready for Crew to be here! He's been moving around like crazy and it is so neat to feel our little guy move all the time!"

I'm feeling?
Starting to get overwhelmed! If these last 12.5 weeks go by as fast as the past 27 weeks we're in trouble! I can't decide on the exact paint color for the nursery...despite how many samples we've gotten. We have no furniture or rug for the room yet either. Yikes. We are planning on getting a new crib and "refurbbing" vintage furniture...that we don't have yet. I've just got to keep reminding myself to take everything one day at a time! It will get done eventually!

Click here to check out weeks 12-26!

Also, if you're pregnant or had a baby recently, come link-up with me next Tuesday! I'm hosting a one time link-up for the men as they tell us what pregnancy has taught them!
Details here