Holy hiatus! Having a toddler an a newborn at home has this mommy feeling extra tired! At night, instead of doing things like blog updating, I am trying to sleep as much as possible between feedings. Thus, the blog has fallen towards the wayside lately. Anywhooo, as most (all) of you probably know, Leighton is here! She arrived at 7:59 am on May 24, and we are absolutely head over heels! I can't believe it has taken me this long to get around to posting her birth story, but here's how everything went down...
First things first, if you remember B's birth story, you know that I ended up with an emergency C section because he was sunny side up, and hours of pushing got me nowhere. However, my doctors (long story, I had two this go 'round because one ended up having to take a leave of absence during my pregnancy), were willing to allow me to do a VBAC if that was my choice. Had there been a guarantee that I would have been able to deliver via VBAC, I would have totally gone for it. I'm confident barring any unforseen complications, I could have done it. But, the unknown is what held me back. The last thing I wanted was a delivery experience like I had with B. I felt AWFUL afterwards. It was exhausting, and with him at home to take care of on top of a newborn, I just could not bring myself to fully commit to a VBAC. If I had gone into labor on my own before my scheduled surgery date, I probably would have attempted it, but that wasn't the case. The week before my surgery and L's birthday, I talked to my doctor one last time. Since it was looking like I would make it to my surgery date without going into labor, she let me know she was actually glad I chose a repeat C because she did not want me to have any chance of going through what I did with B, and due to his size, there was a good chance L might be bigger. In that case, I would have ended up with a C, anyway, because my frame is simply not large enough to birth a baby that size. Now, back to the birthday of our sweet, sweet L.
Barry and I awoke at 4 am to get ready for our 5:30 arrival at Presby. I showered, blew out my hair, and put on a little makeup. We had packed the car the night before, and we made the 20ish minute drive with no hiccups. I was immediately admitted to Labor and Delivery and into a pre-op room. My IV was started, they did a little bloodwork, and we just kind of hung out there until about 7 when we were taken back to my pre-surgery/post-op recovery area. I was a little nervous. I've never had surgery other than my other C, and I didn't even have time to think about being nervous for that! I was taken into the OR first to get my spinal block and they brought Barry back soon after once surgery was getting underway. There were no complications other than a tiny bit of nausea from the anesthesia. It was a routine C, and at 7:59 am, Leighton was here! My first reaction to seeing her was that she looked exactly like Branner did when he was a baby with more/darker hair. It was love at first sight for both Barry and I. He was a goner from her first second of life. I can only imagine how tightly she will have him wrapped around her little finger from here on out. Once I was out in recovery, she latched immediately with no complications (yay!!) and I was monitored and pretty quickly moved to the room where we would spend the next few days. My surgery went absolutely as well as could be expected! That afternoon, family and friends filled my room to meet sweet L. It was amazing. I felt great and was up moving around a little by that night. We left Monday morning to go home.
Since then, I have made a full quick and painless recovery. Leighton has settled into our crazy quite nicely. She is the most easy going, sweet baby imaginable. We feel so blessed and would like to thank all of those who called, texted, sent Facebook messages, brought meals, visited, sent gifts, and prayed for our little family!
Monday, July 29, 2013
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Birthday Wish List
I turn 32 on Thursday, and while this year's birthday is going to be super low-key and a bit overshadowed by the birth of L, I still have a few things I want! After buying maternity/big girl clothing since last Fall, a couple of clothing items made my wish list. I cannot WAIT to buy some non-maternity clothes.
The list:
Found this while perusing the net for maxis a few weeks ago. I've been daydreaming of cute clothes for a while!
Rebecca Minkoff Baxter Sunglasses (I want Grey/Rose)
Because you can never have too many pairs of sunnies.
So cute, will work with breastfeeding, too! Score!
I still have my old diaper bag, but kind of want a new one in a fun, girly color...
Weeks 33-38 // Random Thoughts and The End
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| Top Row: Weeks 33-35 Middle Row Weeks 36-37 Bottom Row: Week 38 |
Well, here we are, just days away from Leighton's birth. After one missed bumpdate post, I got overwhelmed and took a little long break from the blog. I also had 4,748 things to get done, so it worked out. My lengthy to-do list has been completed. The nursery is finished (minus three pieces of dresser hardware that are en route--Barry accidentally ordered all hardware the same size, when the top three drawers required a smaller piece). Hospital bags are packed. My house is clean and organized. We are stocked up on all necessary household goods (and unnecessary ones, too). I've done my grocery and Target shopping for the week. We're as ready as we're going to get.
My mom comes to town tomorrow afternoon. We'll celebrate my birthday at some point Wednesday or Thursday. Right now, I'm just trying to make sure Branner is having fun and spending my time soaking him up. I'm trying not to think too much about Friday. I don't want to get nervous or scared or anxious. The only surgeries I've ever had are my wisdom teeth removed (does that even count?) and my other "emergency" c-section. So, knowing that I'm going in for a procedure could be a little scary if I allowed myself to think too much about it. My plan is to roll with the punches and worry about things once she's here. I'll have help for at least two weeks.
I saw my doctor for the last time before L's birth last Friday. Everything looks great. According to her, my weight gain is perfect, my blood pressure is great, and I'm measuring right on target (I was measuring ahead with B at 37 weeks, and he ended up being huge, so this was somewhat comforting). We talked about the scheduled c-section procedure. I feel so good about my decision. She told me she truly thinks it's the best thing for my situation and is actually glad I didn't choose to attempt a VBAC even though I am a good candidate. With Branner's size and complications, it's not a risk I am interested in taking. If you've labored and pushed only to end up in surgery, you understand what I'm talking about. It's not pretty and recovery isn't fun. I need to avoid that at all costs with another little one at home to take care of.
Lately, I haven't really felt up to the gym or working out. So, I'm giving myself a break. I think I need (and deserve) it! I busted my ass this time in the gym, and it certainly paid off. I have had a much, much easier pregnancy all around, and I credit it to making my fitness a huge priority this go 'round. I plan to pick it back up, ASAP, too! I'm already looking forward to going back to Cardio Dance and getting back into using weights like I was.
The past several weeks, I've been wearing mainly maternity clothes plus several of my regular maxi dresses that are somehow working with the bump. I've already ordered a couple new maxis for after L's arrival. I plan to live in maxis all summer long.
Overall, this pregnancy has been much easier than B's. I'm so thankful. We can't wait to meet our girl on Friday! By the end of this week, our family will be complete, and that is a super exciting thought!
My mom comes to town tomorrow afternoon. We'll celebrate my birthday at some point Wednesday or Thursday. Right now, I'm just trying to make sure Branner is having fun and spending my time soaking him up. I'm trying not to think too much about Friday. I don't want to get nervous or scared or anxious. The only surgeries I've ever had are my wisdom teeth removed (does that even count?) and my other "emergency" c-section. So, knowing that I'm going in for a procedure could be a little scary if I allowed myself to think too much about it. My plan is to roll with the punches and worry about things once she's here. I'll have help for at least two weeks.
I saw my doctor for the last time before L's birth last Friday. Everything looks great. According to her, my weight gain is perfect, my blood pressure is great, and I'm measuring right on target (I was measuring ahead with B at 37 weeks, and he ended up being huge, so this was somewhat comforting). We talked about the scheduled c-section procedure. I feel so good about my decision. She told me she truly thinks it's the best thing for my situation and is actually glad I didn't choose to attempt a VBAC even though I am a good candidate. With Branner's size and complications, it's not a risk I am interested in taking. If you've labored and pushed only to end up in surgery, you understand what I'm talking about. It's not pretty and recovery isn't fun. I need to avoid that at all costs with another little one at home to take care of.
Lately, I haven't really felt up to the gym or working out. So, I'm giving myself a break. I think I need (and deserve) it! I busted my ass this time in the gym, and it certainly paid off. I have had a much, much easier pregnancy all around, and I credit it to making my fitness a huge priority this go 'round. I plan to pick it back up, ASAP, too! I'm already looking forward to going back to Cardio Dance and getting back into using weights like I was.
The past several weeks, I've been wearing mainly maternity clothes plus several of my regular maxi dresses that are somehow working with the bump. I've already ordered a couple new maxis for after L's arrival. I plan to live in maxis all summer long.
Overall, this pregnancy has been much easier than B's. I'm so thankful. We can't wait to meet our girl on Friday! By the end of this week, our family will be complete, and that is a super exciting thought!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
31-32 Weeks // Single Digits
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| 31 Weeks and ready for Cardio Dance! |
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| 32 Weeks—Girls Night Out! |
The due date countdown has now reached single digits. This is really happening, y'all! We're going to be a family of four, like, soon. I'm slightly nervous about the first few weeks, but I'm confident we'll figure it all out. We did it once before, we'll do it again. Plus, we'll have my mom here to help and Kiki's coming, too! I'm getting a little more excited and a little more scared by the day about having a girl. I cannot wait to dress L!!!
Maternity clothes? YES! I am wearing everything maternity at this point except workout shorts/pants and the occasional maxi/stretchy dress. I even broke down and bought maternity workout tops, which should arrive in my mailbox any day now.
Sleep: Still OK to decent. Not waking up much in the night. My lower back is sore when I wake up.
Best moments lately: Getting L's nursery and dresser painted, her "new" glider being finished, lots of movement from her!
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips, fatigue.
Exercise: I'm still at it 3-4 times a week! Doing a mixture that varies of my MOMS class, Cardio Dance, and my prenatal pilates DVD. I am convinced this has kept the swelling at bay and the reason I am still feeling relatively good these days.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes, my regular Spring/Summer wardrobe, and being able to shop at my favorite stores.
Weight Gain: No clue. I quit looking at the doctor, and scales are forbidden in this house.
Maternity clothes? YES! I am wearing everything maternity at this point except workout shorts/pants and the occasional maxi/stretchy dress. I even broke down and bought maternity workout tops, which should arrive in my mailbox any day now.
Sleep: Still OK to decent. Not waking up much in the night. My lower back is sore when I wake up.
Best moments lately: Getting L's nursery and dresser painted, her "new" glider being finished, lots of movement from her!
Food cravings: Smoothies, salads, tuna melts, iced tea, cooked sushi.
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips, fatigue.
Exercise: I'm still at it 3-4 times a week! Doing a mixture that varies of my MOMS class, Cardio Dance, and my prenatal pilates DVD. I am convinced this has kept the swelling at bay and the reason I am still feeling relatively good these days.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes, my regular Spring/Summer wardrobe, and being able to shop at my favorite stores.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Monday, March 25, 2013
29-30 Weeks // Homestretch
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| 29 Weeks |
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| 30 Weeks |
I'm knocking on the door of 31 weeks at this point (giving me a little over 8 weeks to go), and after a weird/terrible week of yet another sickness capped off by a visit from some sort of stomach bug, I'm feeling good again! Although I feel like a whale, this time around random people have been so complimentary and nice to me in the comment department.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers
I tried a new recipe last night that I was really impressed with! Not only was it easy and fast to make, but it was delicious. This is also a kid-friendly recipe. I modified some from the above recipe.
Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers
2 c chicken broth
2 c quick cooking brown rice
1 lb ground turkey (could use chicken or beef)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium bell peppers, seeded and chopped
1 can tomato sauce
1 c shredded cheddar cheese
Bring chicken broth to a boil and cook rice in it according to directions on package. Once cooked, spread on the bottom of a 9x14 pan. Brown turkey meat with onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Drain and add tomato sauce. Mix well and pour over rice. Top with cheese and bake for 45 minutes at 350. Enjoy!
Friday, March 8, 2013
28 Weeks // Hello, Third Trimester!
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| 28 Weeks, and in the home stretch now! |
I have finally entered the third trimester, and I'm still feeling pretty good. I wake up in the mornings feeling fine and barely pregnant, but by 7:00 or 7:30 in the evenings, I am exhausted and feel like my stomach weighs 1,000 lbs. This is probably the result of not being able to rest much during the day due to keeping up with a super active toddler and our day-to-day activities. I have been falling asleep super early (ie: 8:00-8:30) the past few nights. We are constantly on the go, and I'm hoping we won't have to slow down too much in the upcoming weeks for B's sake if nothing else. I haven't felt too bad this go round, and I'm crediting that to an active lifestyle.
Weight Gain: 15ish pounds
Maternity clothes? Yes, some! Wearing all maternity pants and some maternity tops mixed in with my regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. Thanks again to those who have lent or given me maternity clothes!!!
Sleep: OK, not great. I swear, I wake up every time I need to roll over. I go right back to sleep, though.
Best moments lately: Picking nursery fabrics with Lauren, getting some matching outfits for L & B, lots of movement from L.
Food cravings: Fruit, spinach salad, bagels, tuna melts, iced tea, lemonade, cooked sushi, Girl Scout cookies, Mini Cadbury Eggs.
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: Still working out! Doing a mixture that varies weekly of my MOMS class, Total Strength, Cardio Dance, and my prenatal pilates DVD. I am working out 3-4 days a week.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes, my regular Spring/Summer wardrobe already.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Matching Outfits
I doubt I will be able to get away with this for as long as I would like to, but I am loving the idea matching outfits for Branner and Leighton right now! These are my first two coordinating purchases. Precious!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Accessorizing
I think we all know I love a great necklace, and that my philosophy when it comes to accessorizing is, "More is more." Branner agrees.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
For Sale: Women's Dresses
I am cleaning out my closet! Everything is in excellent condition. I accept PayPal, and shipping is included in price listed under the item. Please email me at ashleykirby81@gmail.com if you are interested in purchasing. Prices are firm.
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| BCBG Navy Printed Jersey Dress Size M $55 shipped Worn once |
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| Floreat (From Anthropologie) Navy Strapless Dress with Embroidered Yellow Polka Dots Size 6 $30 shipped Worn twice |
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| Rachel Pally Charcoal Gray Peplum Dress with Ruffle Back Size M $60 shipped Worn twice |
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| Back of Rachel Pally Dress |
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| Susana Monaco Orance Cut Out Open Back Dress Size S $55 shipped Never worn |
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| Back of Susana Monaco Dress |
26-27 Weeks
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| 27 weeks, 2 days |
I am really feeling pregnant these days. Leighton should weigh about 2.5 pounds at this point, and I can definitely tell. My sciatic nerve pain is back constantly along with some lower back pain that doesn't ever really go away. Unfortunately, I have also been super sick. I am fighting off an upper respiratory infection, and I have not felt great or slept great due to coughing all week. As of today, I feel like I am finally on the mend. I know it sounds like it's been a really rough couple of weeks, but I'm still feeling relatively good!
Weight Gain: 15ish pounds
Maternity clothes? These days, my wardrobe consists of maternity pants, some maternity tops, regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. Shout out to everyone who has lent me or given me maternity clothes!!!
Sleep: As I mentioned above, not great. This is due to night time coughing and not pregnancy.
Best moments lately: Tons of movement from L, getting her car seat and bedding, really starting serious work on the nursery, finding out that two of my sweet friends have planned me a sprinkle in April!
Food cravings: Fruit, spinach salad, bagels, tuna melts, iced tea, lemonade, cooked sushi, Girl Scout cookies.
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: Still at it in the gym! Doing a mixture that varies weekly of my MOMS class, Total Strength, Cardio Dance, and my prenatal pilates DVD. I am working out 3-4 days a week.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes.
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Sketches
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| Clockwise from top left: A caterpillar, me, a ladybug, Barry. |
At our weekly family breakfast, Branner asked our sweet waitress for crayons and a piece of paper. Lately, he really hasn't been as into art as in the past. I'm not sure what happened. Last year at preschool, he took craft time very seriously. This year, his teachers say he's kind of over it. I know deep down there is a little artist inside because of this picture. So, it made me a little sad that he was losing interest. But, after seeing these little drawings today, maybe he's not!!!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Snow!
The snow storm on Saturday was welcomed with open arms by Branner! He was SO EXCITED! This was not the first time he has seen or experienced snow, but it is the first time he really understood what it was. He was so cute, wanting to build a "nowman" and searching for his boots first thing Sunday morning so he could go out in it again. He's still talking about it, even though it's gone. We had so much fun playing in the snow with him and just experiencing it through his sweet three-year-old eyes.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
24-25 Weeks
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| Valentine's Date Night! |
It's official. I finally feel pregnant. The general public is now taking notice as well. Leighton finally popped! I feel huge, although this pregnancy, the comments from others have actually been super nice and complimentary--so far!
Maternity clothes? I've made the switch to maternity-only pants. Continuing to wear my regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. Wearing some maternity tops, too, now!
Sleep: I'm getting a full night of sleep. Yay!
Best moments lately: Lots of movement from L this week. This pregnancy, my placenta is anterior (which makes a difference in my size/how I show according to my ultrasound tech), and I have not been able to feel movement quite as much as I did with B. I'm happy I am feeling her all day now!
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: Still at it in the gym! Doing a mixture that varies weekly of Total Strength, Cycle Strength, Cardio Dance, my prenatal pilates DVD, and the MOMs class that I added this week. I normally work out 3-4 days a week.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes.
Weight Gain/Loss: I have no idea. I'm really not interested to know, either!
Maternity clothes? I've made the switch to maternity-only pants. Continuing to wear my regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. Wearing some maternity tops, too, now!
Sleep: I'm getting a full night of sleep. Yay!
Best moments lately: Lots of movement from L this week. This pregnancy, my placenta is anterior (which makes a difference in my size/how I show according to my ultrasound tech), and I have not been able to feel movement quite as much as I did with B. I'm happy I am feeling her all day now!
Food cravings: Fruit, spinach salad, bagels, tuna melts, iced tea, homemade cookies.
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Pregnancy symptoms: Lower back pain, sciatic nerve pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: Still at it in the gym! Doing a mixture that varies weekly of Total Strength, Cycle Strength, Cardio Dance, my prenatal pilates DVD, and the MOMs class that I added this week. I normally work out 3-4 days a week.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets, my waistline, buying cute non-maternity clothes.
Friday, February 15, 2013
Happy Valentine's Day!
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| My favorites! |
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| Breakfast for the boys! |
At our house, we enjoy celebrating Valentine's Day! This year, I made my boys heart shaped blueberry muffins and a full breakfast. Then, B and I put on our red and pink respectively, and headed to the gym! We met Barry for lunch at our favorite, Phil's Deli, then headed home to play the afternoon away. I made a simple dinner for us, as we are celebrating with a fancy dinner out tonight, and we exchanged gifts. All I can say is I am one lucky girl! Barry surprised me with a prenatal massage at Ballantyne Resort & Spa and a pair of shoes I have had my eye on for Spring! Hope everyone had a great day!
Monday, February 11, 2013
Valentine's Day Dance
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| Happy boy with his best friend, Jack! |
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| My Little Valentine! |
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| Photo booth! |
On Friday night, we had a family date (with Big Papa, too!) at Branner's Valentine's Day Dance. It was so much fun! There was a photo booth area (waiting on the pic from that), pizza, games, crafts, cookie decorating and a middle school kid playing music DJ. Branner spent the majority of the time chasing and playing with his best friend from school, Jack. These two have so much in common and are totally joined at the hip! The rest of us spent our time being amused by the kids and eating and laughing. I am so thankful for our preschool and for the friends we have made there!
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
22-23 Weeks
Date Night @ 23 Weeks
I'm really closer to 24 weeks at this point, but I am trying to keep tabs on this pregnancy since this blog didn't exist when I was pregnant with B. I think regular jeans are about to become a thing of the past for me in the next week or so.
Maternity clothes? I can technically still fit in my regular jeans. I have to wear them super low, though because of my growing belly, and that is uncomfortable. Luckily, they still fit everywhere, which means maybe I haven't gained much weight all over. I still wear my regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. I had to buy a couple of new sports bras and workout tops in a larger size (holy cannoli the "girls" are growing). Also wearing several maternity tops (thanks, Sara!), and the pairs of maternity pants I mentioned last week.
Sleep: I'm getting about 7-8 hours a night.
Best moments lately: Branner telling Barry, "Mommy's baby too big to come out of her belly button!" No clue where he came up with that! He hasn't asked either of us where babies come from, so I guess this is just 3 year old logic. We also hung Leighton's new light fixture, and Barry touched up the crib with a new coat of paint. Time to get crackin' on the nursery!
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Gender: Sugar and spice and everything nice.
Pregnancy symptoms: Round ligament pain, lower back pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: I was really sick last week with a sinus infection, so I had to take some time off from working out. But, I'm back at it with Total Strength, Cycle Strength, and Cardio Dance and still doing my prenatal pilates DVD for at-home workouts!
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets.
Weight Gain/Loss: +9 lbs. (Probably around 10-11 lbs at this point)
Maternity clothes? I can technically still fit in my regular jeans. I have to wear them super low, though because of my growing belly, and that is uncomfortable. Luckily, they still fit everywhere, which means maybe I haven't gained much weight all over. I still wear my regular sweaters, loose cut tops, leggings, and workout clothes. I had to buy a couple of new sports bras and workout tops in a larger size (holy cannoli the "girls" are growing). Also wearing several maternity tops (thanks, Sara!), and the pairs of maternity pants I mentioned last week.
Sleep: I'm getting about 7-8 hours a night.
Best moments lately: Branner telling Barry, "Mommy's baby too big to come out of her belly button!" No clue where he came up with that! He hasn't asked either of us where babies come from, so I guess this is just 3 year old logic. We also hung Leighton's new light fixture, and Barry touched up the crib with a new coat of paint. Time to get crackin' on the nursery!
Food cravings: Fruit, spinach salads, sweets!
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Gender: Sugar and spice and everything nice.
Pregnancy symptoms: Round ligament pain, lower back pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: I was really sick last week with a sinus infection, so I had to take some time off from working out. But, I'm back at it with Total Strength, Cycle Strength, and Cardio Dance and still doing my prenatal pilates DVD for at-home workouts!
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Girl Mom
Although I am
- Shopping trips
- Possibly my wedding dress—if she wants it (EEEEEK, just the thought!)
- My shoe collection (I'll save the really good stuff for her and have it resoled)
- My wardrobe (Only the really good stuff. I wish I had a killer vintage closet!)
- Mani/pedi dates
- Spa days
- Prom dress shopping
- Lilly Pulitzer
- Some of my special jewelry (Branner will get some, too)
- Hairbows
- Books from my childhood (ie: Little House on the Prairie, Babysitter's Club)
- American Girl dolls (I had Samantha; my mom saved her!)
- A bond like my mom and I have
**I say hopefully because, with my luck, she will probably hate all of these things, but a mom can wish!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Things I'm Loving Thursday: Valentine's Edition
A little wish list for Valentine's Day!
I'd love B, B, L!
Worries
I don't know if it's pregnancy hormones, Branner turning into such a big boy, or both. But, lately I have been plagued with worrisome thoughts. From going into labor with Leighton (not about actual labor; about it happening and not knowing what to do with B), to bullying (what if other kids are mean to them, or worse-what if they are the bullies?), to my kids riding bikes alone through the neighborhood (what if they got hit by a car?), to them reaching driving age (self explanatory), to accidents, their health (what if something bad happens to one of them?), our health (what if one of us were to get sick?), the health of our family members (what if one of them were to get sick?)—the list could go on and on—these little doubts and scary thoughts creep into my head and steal away moments of peace and contentment. I hate it.
I don't want to be a worrier. I have tried hard not to be one. It has worked for quite some time. I was being so good at pushing these thoughts and fears away and simply soaking in the moment. But, these last few weeks, they've been seeping back in through the cracks. Being a daughter, granddaughter, sister, wife, aunt, friend and (especially) mommy can be frightening if you think about the "what ifs." I don't want any of the joy I find in these roles stolen away for one minute because of worry, doubt, or fear.
Moving forward, I need to make a conscious effort to live in the moment and enjoy what I have in front of me. This post is really just a reminder to myself of that. Worry less/Pray more...that's what I need to do!
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Branner's Birthday Party: Space Kidets
The Saturday after Branner turned three, we had a little party at Space Kidets for him. He had an absolute blast! While he was not really in the mood to pose for pictures (hence the lack thereof), he bounced, jumped, ran, and played himself silly.
This place is a mommy's dream because you are not allowed to bring anything but cake and favors. No drinks, nothing. They do it all: pizza, drinks, balloons, moving your things from room to room (bounce room, party room, FREE game room) during the party. It was truly the easiest, most relaxed party.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Baked Tacos
{via}
Y'all can probably tell that this pregnancy has thrown me for a loop eating and cooking-wise if from nothing else but the lack of recipe posts here. I simply haven't felt like cooking lately. We've had a lot of spaghetti, a lot of baked chicken and veggies, and a lot of me making dinner for the boys and eating a bowl of cereal or something else. But, going forward, I'm trying to be better! I made these baked tacos last week, and not only were they super easy, they were super delicious!
Baked Tacos
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1/2 packet Trader Joe's taco seasoning (or brand of your choice)
8 oz can tomato sauce
16 oz can refried beans
1 c shredded cheese
1 pkg of Trader Joe's taco shells (or brand of your choice)
Toppings:
shredded lettuce
guacamole
chopped tomatoes
sour cream
salsa
salsa
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Sprinkle beef with taco seasoning and brown. Drain. Add tomato sauce and refried beans. Mix well and allow to cook until mixture thickens. Spoon mixture into taco shells and place in a 9x13 inch baking dish, standing up. Sprinkle cheese over meat mixture in each shell. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Garnish with toppings of your choice. Enjoy!
Thursday, January 24, 2013
21 Weeks
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| Post Pilates Workout, excuse the nastiness! |
Well, I just finished my 21st week of pregnancy with our sweet baby girl. I have to admit, I'm tired. Which is weird, because I should have tons of energy seeing as I'm in my second trimester not my third. I guess having a super-de-duper active three year old will do that to you!
Weight Gain/Loss: +9 lbs.
Maternity clothes? Technically, I can still fit in my regular jeans. I'm only still wearing 2 prs of them (a cheapie pr of Gap jeggings & a pr of gray skinnies from AT Loft) because I do not want to stretch out or ruin my "good" jeans. All of my sweaters, loose cut tops, and leggings, and workout clothes are still fitting. I'm wearing several maternity tops (mostly thanks to my friend, Sara), a pr of maternity leopard skinny jeans, a pr of maternity black skinnies, a pr of maternity red skinnies, and a pr of maternity jeggings!
Sleep: It's a crapshoot. Some nights I get 8-10 hours. Some nights I'm up 2-3 times for no reason. Le sigh.
Best moments lately: Hearing Leighton's heartbeat at my appointment on Wednesday (140s-150 bpm)!
Food cravings: Bagels, egg salad, spinach salad, yogurt, cereal, sweets (Trader Joe's fat free brownies baking in the oven as I type).
Food aversions: Sometimes meat.
Gender: Pretty in pink!
Pregnancy symptoms: Round ligament pain, lower back pain, frequent bathroom trips.
Exercise: Still continuing with my regular classes at the gym: Total Strength, Cycle Strength, and Cardio Dance and still doing my prenatal pilates DVD for at-home workouts that I love.
What I miss: Champagne, red wine, raw sushi, medium rare filets.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
For Sale, Size 24m/2T
I am cleaning out Branner's closet since we are having a girl! I've already sold tons on Facebook, but there are still some great things left. Everything is in excellent condition. I accept PayPal, and shipping is $5 (more for multiple pieces purchased). Please email me at ashleykirby81 at gmail.com if you are interested in purchasing. Prices are firm. Here's what I have in 24m/2T sizes:
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SOLD! |
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| OshKosh B'gosh Cream/Tan/Turquoise/Orange Size 24m $9 |
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| Gap Navy Lined Windbreaker w/ Hood Size 2T $15 |
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