Shots Round 2

In an attempt to help Heidi sleep a little better we started giving her cereal, much to my chagrin. I really didn't want to start until closer to 6 months...but let's face it, nothing has quite worked the way I planned since I didn't want her to have any formula until at least 6 months and yet she gets some formula everyday since I am pretty sure I still don't have enough milk...especially since we took her in for her appointment and got her stats.

At 4 months Heidi is:

24 in.--25%
10 lb. 15 oz.--<3%
So, there you have it. She is still a tiny thing. I can't believe she hasn't even doubled her birth weight yet. When I asked the doctor about it, she had nothing to say other than to point out that Jeff and I are both small...okay, thanks for that. I'm glad you're getting paid the big bucks to give me absolutely no advice, ask me not one question about how much and how often she eats, etc. She is STILL sporting quite the stuffed up nose and because of it is sleeping horribly. Her nose keeps getting worse and she gets less and less sleep every night. I don't think I have slept for more than 30 min. at a time since Christmas Eve. Perhaps we will have a New Year's miracle?? Exhausted doesn't even describe how we feel around here. I really wish she hadn't gotten sick at Thanksgiving because we are now going on close 2 months of non-stop sickness. The doctor of course had absolutely nothing of use to tell me and if the roads weren't so nasty I would be tempted to bring her down to Utah. She surprisingly has still been quite happy despite the lack of sleep and with sleep or without, we love her little face to pieces!

First Christmas

Heidi had a great first Christmas! Christmas is much more fun with a little one, even if she is not really aware of what is going on yet! We took her to see Santa at the mall and let me tell you, I love living in a small town. You would think on Christmas Eve there would be a line out the door. We just walked right up and got her picture because there was no one in line. It was awesome. Heidi wasn't quite sure what to think. She wouldn't look at Santa. She just had to keep her eyes on mom and dad. It was pretty cute.


We got Heidi an exersaucer for Christmas and she loves it...even if she doesn't weigh enough to get her feet to touch the ground. I can't wait until she is big enough to start bouncing and spinning around because I think she is going to go nuts. When we opened presents Heidi really wasn't phased by anything. Grandma and Grandpa Hunziker got her some music books and she loved listening to the music. She has started showing interest in books now and I am loving that, of course. I read to her every chance I get. She mostly likes farm animal books and really doesn't like the bug or dinosaur book I try to read to her. I think she is going to be a girly girl.

This is our all time favorite picture of Heidi in her exersaucer. She looks like she is a rock star jamming out. It is so funny. You can kind of see how her feet don't really touch yet too. She is so funny and is at our favorite age so far. She is so happy all day long and squeals and giggles all the time. I never thought she would be this happy and hope teething can hold off for a little while.

Heidi also gave her mom and dad a Christmas present. For the first time since she got sick, she slept through the night! (Well, 7:30-4:50). It was in her bassinet, but still, it was very nice not to have to wake up every 20-60 min. to stick in the pacifier!

Heidi has also become quite the daddy's girl lately. We are happy he is home for a few days. She always checks to make sure dad is still in the room. It is so cute. We have had such a great Christmas!

Four Months

We can't get into the doctor until the 30th so we don't have stats yet, but we have noticed our little bug growing like crazy lately...a little too much if you ask me! Heidi is such a happy little thing lately and we are just loving watching her learn and grow!

*Rolls over from tummy to back--when she feels like it...was doing it a lot, but hasn't for awhile.
*Very ticklish
*Laughs all the time...best sound in the world
*Squeals and coos and chatters non-stop
*Sporting quite the bald spot in the back
*Likes to go places--mostly because she loves to look around and take everything in
*Loves sitting on the counter to watch mom cook or do projects for the school
*Still has a hard time napping for longer than 20 min. unless she is being cuddled...LOVES to be cuddled
*Used to sleep well at night but then she got sick at Thanksgiving and hasn't slept through the night since. Wakes up since she can't breathe and we tie her over with the pacifier...will she ever sleep through the night again???
*Hates the cold
*Likes to sit in her bumbo on the table while we eat
*Has to be strapped into everything now because she moves and wiggles so much
*Spins herself around on the floor

Turkey Day

We had a great Thanksgiving! Thankfully, the weather wasn't as bad as predicted and we headed down to Utah to spend the holiday with Jeff's family. Heidi was such a great little traveler! I fed her right before we left and we hit the road. Heidi talked to herself happily for the first 20 min. or so and then fell right to sleep the rest of the drive.

Our first stop was to visit Jeff's grandma. Heidi had fun meeting her great grandma Magda (Magdalena).

We had a great time being spoiled with delicious food and enjoyable company. Heidi had a great time being spoiled by all of her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and adoring cousins. She was such a good girl and slept great in her new playpen. She kept waking up while everyone was awake playing games, talking, etc. but she went back to sleep when I gave her the pacifier so I am not complaining. She still slept until 5 or 5:30 everyday so I was thrilled! I was a little concerned since it would be a new situation for her. She was a happy little girl and seemed to enjoy and take in all the commotion. She loves to watch everything and everybody. On Friday Jeff and I went into town to visit my old college roomie, Anita. It was sooo fun to see her! She tried to come visit at the hospital when Heidi was born, but my phone wasn't working and we missed each other. I was glad I got a chance to see her while she was still in Utah. Overall we had a fabulous break and are so grateful to have had the time to see family! We wish we all lived closer so the get togethers could happen more often!

Three Months

How can my little girl be 3 months already??? She has been such a treat lately and I just want her to stop growing up! No doctor appt. this month, so no stats, but we think she is about 10 lbs., 22 inches long. But I have been wrong about her weight before so maybe she's only 9 something.

*Coos, coos, coos all the time.
*Does this really deep coo with a very serious face from time to time--hilarious
*Has laughed about 6 times and her mommy and daddy now make complete fools of themselves to try to get another one
*Can still wear newborn clothes...mostly nb pants
*Fake coughs and cries to get attention--I am not kidding. She will pretend to cough, you look at her, she looks at you out of the corner of her eye and gets a HUGE grin on her face
*Sleeps 8-5 or so most nights. Sometimes she wakes around 3 and gets the pacifier until 5.
*Doesn't want her crib yet, but won't have a choice when she starts getting too big for the bassinet.
*Naps much better. Sleeps in the bassinet in the morning, afternoons she ends up in mom's arms from time to time, but we are making progress.
*Only likes to eat if mom is feeding--she won't even let Jeff feed her the bottle...mom has to give her the bottle.
*Now gets a bottle of pumped milk before bed.
*Loves her baths
*Grabs things, but mostly burp cloths, wash cloths, my hair, her hair, and her clothes
*Blows lots of bubbles
*Loves to stand and especially likes to be held up over your face (like an airplane)
*LOVES pat-a-cake. That's where a lot of laughs came from
*Very observant...can't sleep if there is activity or people around unless really tired. When she gets really tired and wants to sleep but there is a lot happening (like church) she will cover her eyes to try to sleep
*Likes you to hold the pacifier in her mouth so she can hold your hand, even though she can keep it in just fine
*Loves to cuddle and be held (especially if mom is the one holding)
*Loves her activity mats and bouncy seat
*Loves the piano, blow dryer, and vacuum

Overall, she is just a fun, happy little girl and we couldn't love her more. Some days I watch the kids getting off the bus at the bus stop in front of my house and hear the bells at the school behind my house and I get really, really sad. Not a day goes by that I don't miss teaching, but every time I hear Heidi laugh, coo, squeal, or smile I remember why I stayed home. I wouldn't want to miss a single minute because it is going way too fast! I feel so lucky to have the option to stay home!

Blessing Day

Yesterday was Heidi's blessing day. Heidi had a great, special, busy day! We were blessed to have a lot of our family come from both sides. My parents, sister, and brother came from California, my grandparents came from Idaho, my brother came from Kentucky. Jeff's parents, sister & family, Aunt Linda, and Aunt Marlene and Uncle Kelly came from Utah. It was so fun to see everyone and we are so grateful our families traveled so far to help Heidi celebrate her special day.

Heidi wore my blessing dress that my grandma made for me. I was glad it fit. She looked so cute and was such a good girl even with all the commotion. When she started to be blessed she spit her pacifier out and started smiling at all the men...so funny.

11 Weeks

Wild and Crazy

This is how my child woke up from her nap...I guess that's what happens when you have loads of hair. It made me laugh. Perhaps it's because daddy didn't help with bath time last night and he does a much better job brushing the hair before bed and then it stays a little more manageable the next day. Mommy isn't so patient before bed time.

In other news, naps are still not going well, but nighttime has been pretty good.

Saturday: 8pm-5am
Sunday: 8:30pm-3:30am
Monday: 8 pm-5:45 am
Tuesday: 8 pm-5:30 am

No matter what time she wakes up, we love her more and more every day!

It's a Halloween Miracle!

I realize this is a very old picture of the little one, but I am on Jeff's computer and that is all he's got and I'm too lazy to go upstairs and get the camera. So anyway my little munchkin has been such a delight lately. Last night, Heidi slept from 8pm-5am. I realize this may just a major fluke, but hey, I'll take it!

The napping was getting better, but then it got really bad again. She had a day or so where she did awesome, but then everything unravelled. No matter how tired she was, she would SCREAM until she was hoarse for 20-25 min. and never give in. She threw such tantrems in that 20 min. that she literally managed to get herself out of the swaddle, scoot to the top of the crib, get her sleeper off one shoulder, and both legs in one leg of the sleeper. She's a magician apparently. I have been letting her nap in the swing the last two days because she just doesn't seem to be getting the "cry it out" yet and I really, really tried for 4-5 days for every nap. She has been sleeping in her crib at night, so maybe I will go back to trying the naps in another couple of weeks and see what happens.

With Jonna's help, I realized I may not be producing quite enough milk for this little one. I have been pumping like crazy and trying to feed bottles so I know how much she is getting. The bottle that works like a charm is the playtex drop-in with the latex nipple. Life saver. My friend let me borrow a whole bunch of different ones and this one was the winner--same friend that let me borrow the mobile--she has been such a life saver! Realizing that she liked the latex nipple I thought maybe I should try a binky with a latex nipple. I had tried so many different shapes and sizes, but didn't think about material. Well, wa-la! She takes it!!! She only takes it when she's mad or tired, which is exactly when I want her to take it. Thanks to these two discoveries she successfully made it 3 hours at church. I guess we'll see how she does tonight...I hope it wasn't just a fluke, but even if it was, I'll be grateful for one night!

Emergency Room already?

I realized a couple weeks ago that I did not have one picture of myself with Heidi. I finally made Jeff take a picture because let's face it, I did give birth to this little one! This picture was taken the first time we took Heidi to church and I am just now blogging about it.

Anyway, so I had to take Heidi to the ER yesterday. I felt like one of those over-protective moms, but Jeff insisted I go and I figured it was better to be safe than sorry. After Heidi's shots she started throwing up florescent yellow and also brown that looked like it might be bloody. The pediatrician said to take her in to the ER to make sure it wasn't some gastrointestinal bleeding. So we spent the day (and yes I mean the entire day) waiting around in the waiting room to find nothing out. They told she probably had a reaction to the rotavirus since it is a live virus. Or they said it might have been the formula I gave her the day before. We are trying to teach Heidi how to take a bottle and I didn't have any pumped milk ready so we tried a little formula. She only got 2 oz. down, so I would be surprised if that was it. In the end, they told me to wait it out 24 hrs., don't give her any formula, and come back if it keeps happening and they will do an x-ray. I'm so glad I spent the day (and no doubt loads of $$$ for that). I'm pretty sure she is just fine. She hasn't had any more vomiting, her temp. is back to normal, and she seems happy and healthy. I think Jeff was more concerned than I was...what a good daddy. :)

Jeff really is the cutest dad. He just adores his little princess. He loves bath time and wants to steal her the second he gets home. It's so fun to watch. Heidi's sleeping has gotten SO much better the last two days. I was glad to know friends who I think are great moms let their kids "cry it out"....it made me feel better. We still have tears, but it is getting better. My friend also let me borrow her mobile and that really helps, especially when I first put her in. The best part is that the mobile has a remote so I don't have to go in to start it over. Now that is ingenious. We need to get better at going down at night time now. Weeks 3-8 were so hard, but I think our little girl is settling in. She is so much happier and we just love her to pieces!

Shots and Stats

Even being this tired when we got home from the doctor, Heidi still will not sleep in the crib! UGH! The doctor told me today I have to let her just scream for 20-25 min. but that is a lot easier said than done. If she is really, really tired, she will lay there quiet with her eyes open and never drift off to sleep. I put her in the crib drowsy but not asleep, I pat her, I shush her, I leave her come back and pat and shush...let's face it, she just can't go to sleep by herself. I have tried music, white noise, and my friend let me borrow a mobile that I am going to try. Anyone else have this problem????? I used to be able to get her to sleep at night only in her crib or bassinet, but now she won't even do that. It's so hard to leave her in there screaming because what if she's still hungry? Or maybe she has a burp? Did anyone else let their child "cry it out" and if so, did you start this early???

Anyway, when we went to get her shots today we found out she is still small...shocking.

Height: 21 1/2 in.--7th percentile
Weight: 8 lbs. 11 oz.--3rd percentile

I was sure she was at least 9 pounds, but I guess not. When I expressed my concerns to my german doctor she said in her thick accent, "Look at her. She is beautiful. In America, she seem small. In Europe, she is beautiful, healthy baby. American babies too big." Not sure that answers my question about whether or not I should be concerned that she is getting enough to eat, but she said her height and head circumference are growing normally for what she was when she was born, but her weight is just slow in coming. (I want to supplement her with a little formula at night, but Heidi now refuses to take a bottle. She just licks it.) She said it is most likely just genetics. Clearly from Jeff...she'll be grateful I suppose when she is older if she stays skinny.

Two Months

Time is flying by! I think Heidi was embarrassed when I mentioned she was a bit of a cranky pants because for the last 5 days or so, she has been quite delightful! Now I probably jinxed it, but I sure hope not.

I am taking Heidi in for her 2 month this week and then I will list her stats. We think she is about 9 pounds now...what a chunk...lol.

Here are some fun things we have noticed:

*Starting to bat at toys, though seemingly unintentional. It is so fun to see her reaction when she hits the rattle.
*Smiles and coos all the time. Happiest time is in the morning.
*Loves to be cuddled. She has a hard time sleeping if she's not on mom or dad's shoulder.
*Fights naps like you wouldn't believe. I think it's b/c she doesn't want to miss a minute w/ her mommy :)
*Likes walks, but only if mommy or daddy carry her--what can I say, we must be great cuddlers!
*Loves her diaper pad...what the? It is so funny. She smiles and coos like nobody's business when she's on that thing!
*She's ALWAYS moving those arms and legs, even while eating.
*Holds rattles for a short time.
*Can hold her weight on her legs. Probably easy for her since she's such a lightweight.
*Eats every 3-4 hours. Usually goes to sleep around 8 and gets up between 2 and 4 and then again around 6 or 7. Every now and then she will get up at 12:30??? Hope that stops happening.
*Hates her car seat and being in the car. I've decided she must be claustrophobic like her mama.
*Likes bath time, but hates getting out and getting in her pjs.
*When I get up to feed her at night she is so hilarious. As soon as I turn the hall light on she stops crying instantly. As soon as I look at her she gets this HUGE grin on her face. I swear she's thinking, "Ha, my little cry worked again!"
*Does surprisingly well at church until she needs her nap...dad usually ends up taking her home since mom teaches YW.
*Doesn't like to wear bows often. Probably because she loves twirling all her luscious locks and the bows are just in the way.
*Twirls hair and pulls her ear.
*Makes a funny face when she's about to cry.
*Only likes the swing if the treadmill is going.
*Likes the sound of the blow dryer.
*Sleeps w/ arms above her head--refuses to let arms be swaddled.
*When startled her arms go flying up--it's hilarious.
*Likes to be sung to. Loves "The wheels on the bus".
*Likes me to bounce her on my knee and sing Humpty Dumpty.

We just love her to pieces and are so glad she's here. I thought leaving teaching would be harder than it is. My little Heids keeps me so busy I hardly have time to think about school. She already has dad wrapped around her finger and we can't wait to see all the new little things she does every day!

Happy Birthday Grandma Hunziker!

Happy Birthday grandma! Thanks for loving me so much! I am so lucky to have you as my grandma. I can't wait to see you and play with you again!

Love, Heidi

Our little Weirdo

I discovered the secret to getting Heidi to take a nap in the morning, not in my arms, and it revolves around the swing and the treadmill. I was very concerned about how I was going to start running again with a little fuss bucket, especially since she's too small to take in the jogging stroller. I had resorted to waiting until Jeff got home and then I discovered something: Heidi loves the sound of the treadmill. As long as she isn't over tired or hungry, if I put her in the swing and start running on the treadmill she is out--more so in the morning, but still. It is so funny. She will be throwing a tantrum and nothing will work. Then I put her in the swing and get the treadmill going and she is out in 42 seconds flat. The other morning I got on the treadmill in my bare feet holding her and she liked that. So we use the treadmill a lot. It's more effective than pacing around for some reason. Now that I have posted this, I have a bad feeling I have jinxed it. Cross your fingers.

Here's another funny thing about this. Last night we had a bad, bad night as soon as daddy got home. I was trying to finish dinner and Jeff was struggling. So I told him about the trick. I told him, "Put her in the swing and start running on the treadmill". Well, the screaming didn't stop. So after a few minutes I go downstairs to see what the problem is. Heidi is in the swing like I asked, but the swing is not moving. I asked him why he didn't turn the swing on and he said, "You just told me to put her in the swing and start the treadmill. It doesn't work." I didn't realize you had to actually say to turn the swing on. I couldn't stop laughing and let's face it, I needed something to laugh at by that point!

This whole discovery got me thinking. Why am I not 90 pounds by now? I mean seriously. I spend probably 90% of my day bouncing, walking, swaying, pacing, etc. and yet I still have 10 lbs. to get to pre-baby weight and 15 lbs. to get to my ideal weight. I really think I should get something out of this, don't you?

Little Miss Cranky Pants

"Mellow", "Content", "Calm"... none of these words describe our little princess! At 7 1/2 weeks old we have decided we just might have ourselves a cranky baby. We have some days that are better than others, but for the most part we have a lot of fussing....unless eating or sleeping. I keep waiting for things to get better, but let's face it, every time I say, "I think she is coming out of it" or "I think she is starting to get happier", --she gets ten times worse. So I don't say that anymore.

I feel like everyone and their mother's dog describes their newborn with one of the three aforementioned words, and I'm not going to lie: a little jealous! Either way, we still love our little miss cranky pants to pieces and think she is a doll....we just try not to take her in public too often. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't terrified to take her to church tomorrow. I know we will be the ones everyone is staring at wondering why we can't get our baby to calm down.

Here are some things we try. I'm hoping we'll look back at it one day an find it humorous.

*Swing. She lasts about 5-10 min. and then exercises her lungs.

*Bouncy seat. She lasts about 5-10 min. and then exercises her lungs.

*Floor mat w/ and w/o toys. She lasts about 10 minutes and I have to be there the entire time shaking rattles, singing, etc...and then she exercises her lungs.

*Holding. She last 1-2 min. sitting. Then it's up we go! We bounce, we walk, we bounce, we sway, we go room to room, we bounce some more, and so on. When we're up, we can last about 15 min. before exercising lungs.

* Gas drops and Gripe water. Don't seem to make much difference.

*Changing my diet. I have cut out dairy because it seems to make her have worse reflux, but she still has good reflux days and bad so I don't know if that has done anything.

*Walks. Let's put it this way--I try to stay away from houses and try to go on the trail when it's not a busy time. I walk her with the stroller and the carseat attachment, the stroller w/o carseat (she can lay down), and walk her without the stroller in my arms. She'll be calm for about 5 min. at a time, then I have to stop, take her out and console and put her back in and repeat. She usually starts a blood curdling scream at the absolute farthest place from home. I think everyone that has seen me thinks I abuse my child. Why else would she be screaming that way?! I have even had to take her out and carry her in one arm while pushing the stroller with the other.

*Swaddling. She HATES it, but mostly at night. If I put her arms in and wrap her tight, she throws a tantrum until her arms eventually come out. We think she's so skinny because she can't hold still. Even when she is sleeping she is moving all over squeaking an grunting. She sounds like a little dinosaur. When I go get her, she is usually completely sideways in the bassinet. I honestly don't even know that she ever sleeps.

*Pacifier. This lasts 10-15 min. depending on the day and I have to hold it in her mouth.

So basically, I rotate between all things all day long. When she eats, she eats for about an hour. I have been told not to feed her so long, but to be honest, sometimes having an hour where she isn't so cranky is kind of nice and makes the time go more quickly between the feedings. I have her eating about every 3 hours and she doesn't seems especially starving between feedings...just unsettled and sometimes burpy and gassy. Her nights aren't horrible, but she doesn't sleep through the night. She goes down about 8:30/9, gets up anywhere from 2:00-3:30 and then again around 6 or so. Lately she hasn't wanted to go back to sleep when she's up at 3:30 and that is torture. I would say I think things are going to get better...but I don't want to jinx myself. Oh well, in spite of it all, I am SO grateful to have a healthy baby (even if she's not so happy) and I love the days and even just the minutes in some cases when she is happy and smiley. We love her to pieces and couldn't imagine life without her!

Six Weeks

My baby is growing up so fast!! I am dreading the two month appointment and shots, but I guess I have a couple more weeks.

Jeff had a weird work schedule today and was home for a little in the morning. It was nice to have daddy around so mom could get a few things done.

Heidi had a rough patch starting around 3 weeks, but I feel like she might be coming out of it...knock on wood. The hardest thing right now is just that she will not nap anywhere except in someone's arms. As much as I LOVE cuddling with my little one, I need a little time to do the basics and keep the house clean. Having Jeff home this morning was nice because since it has been 6 weeks, I wanted to start running again. If I had someone to hold her for even just 2 hours a day, it would be great. I know it will get better though. I will probably just have to run when Jeff gets home until she is more content on her own. I have tried to get her to sleep in her crib and not let her sleep in my arms, but she wakes up within ten minutes and won't settle back down. Not just the crib. I should mention, she won't sleep in the bouncy seat, swing, bassinet, stroller, you know name it! Any tips???? My biggest fear is that she will start not wanting to sleep in her crib even at night. Is that a valid fear?

Being a mom is better than I expected in most ways, but what I never anticipated was the worry. I worry about everything. Is she eating enough? Is she sleeping enough? Is she sleeping too much? Should I be training her better? etc. The nursing is getting better and I am glad I haven't given up. The hardest part is I still have migraines a lot and I can take even less medication nursing than while pregnant. Some nights I am up throwing up in pain all night and trying to feed a hungry baby. It is so hard! If they don't get better in the next month I might have to stop nursing or maybe just pump and dump on the days I need medicine.

One Month

I can't believe my little Heidi is already one month old! Time is going way too fast. She has always had good focus, but it seems to be getting better. We get more smiles and I actually think she is finally growing. She may even be 7 pounds by now. I am taking her in Monday so we will see. She is still in all her newborn clothes. I have to say, that was the worst advice I ever got. I can't tell you how many people told me, "you don't need many, if any, newborn clothes. They grow right out of them in a week or so." Apparently they didn't take into account the size of our little one. 0-3mos. DROWN her!!! One day...

We have been having some rough days (and nights) lately. This face makes me sad. I think her little tummy is trying to adjust, but somedays are HORRIBLE!! Every few days she spits up a TON and seems to have really bad stomach cramps. Not my favorite days. Anyone go through this and if so, when does it end???

Love this girl

Oh Happy Day

Today is a very good day in our household.

1. Antibiotics are gone

2. Umbilical Cord has FINALLY fallen out! So happy to not give a sponge bath tonight!!

What Happened?

I am not exactly sure what happened to my last post, but it appears to be gone. I was fixing something, went to re-post it, and it came up blank. Strange.

Anyway, things are going fine around here. Heidi definitely looks more like her dad these days. Her hair seems to be getting lighter, but it isn't falling out yet. I kind of hope it doesn't fall out too badly because it could look very strange where she has so much.

When we got home from the hospital I had a call from the Utah health place saying Heidi's PKU tests came back with some abnormal results. They were concerned about some metabolic disorder and cystic fibrosis. I took her in for her 2 week where they did the second PKU and we are thrilled to learn that the results are now normal. What a huge relief!!

We are adjusting slowly, but surely. Lack of sleep is the hardest part, as I knew it would be. Nursing is slowly getting a little better. We were doing pretty well and then I had my two week check up on the incision. I found out I had a urinary tract infection, which put me on antibiotics. The antibiotics have made Heidi a very sad girl since they make her tummy hurt. That is definitely the stinky part about nursing. I finish them on Sat. and can't wait to be done. Hopefully I will have a happier baby soon!

Adjusting

Here is the short and sweet version of how our little Heidi Magdalena came into the world. My original due date was August 23. I went to stay with my in-laws about a week before so that I would be in Utah if our little gal decided to make an early appearance. On the night of the 17th I wasn't sure if my water was leaking. Peggy was nice enough to take the day off on the 18th and take me to the doctor. I was nervous about the whole thing (naturally) and so my blood pressure was high. Long story short, Dr. Young thought I was far enough along and with high blood pressure they should just start inducing. So Peggy and I went to lunch and I called Jeff and told him to leave work and make his way down to Utah. Peggy and I went to American Fork hospital and checked in and they hooked me up and started the pitocin. It seemed like forever for Jeff to finally get there! It took no time to dilate from 2 cm. to 8 cm. but then I was there for a LONG time. Finally after 13 hours I was at 9.5 cm so they had me start pushing. I pushed for 2.5 exhausting hours, but Heidi was just not going to fit. Dr. Young then suggested we either try the vacuum or go in for a c-section. I decided we should try the vacuum first because I really didn't want a c-section. Well...the vacuum didn't work either so I was rushed in for an emergency c-section. Everything is a blur from there. I remember hearing her cry and I remember asking to see her, but not much else. I was so exhausted from all the medication and of course the 16 hours of labor. Two hours after surgery I finally got to see my 6 lb. 12 oz., 18 in. little girl! She was worth it all. Recovering from the labor and c-section has been a beast. It's so hard to take care of a baby when you can't hardly move and are doped up on pain killers! The next one should be easier because it will only be the c-section I have to recover from.

Welcome to the World!

I have a very long story of how this little sweet thing came into the world, but we don't have a computer battery and will be in the hospital much longer than anticipated, but here is a sneak peak!

Heidi Magdalena Hunziker

Aug. 19, 2010

5:00AM

6 lb. 12 oz, 18 inches

Getting Closer

I went to my doctor appt. Friday and was happy to find out I am 3 cm. and 80-90% effaced. If she doesn't come on her own by Friday the 20th, they are going to induce. The doctor said we could induce this coming Monday, the 16th, but I would really rather wait and see if she won't just come on her own. We'll keep posting!

Bedding

Last weekend while in Utah for the doctor, we met one of my good friends, Jonna, who made my baby bedding. I was so excited to pick it up and really excited to put it on the crib. It turned out so cute! Now we just need a little one to enjoy use the bedding! Thanks again Jonna!

Updates

Yes, we're still waiting. 12 days until the due date and definitely hoping we don't have to wait more than 14 days!! My ribs are so sore I fear they will hurt long after this little one arrives!

At my appointment last week I was 1.5 cm/50% effaced/-2 position. My next appointment is Friday and I have a bad feeling it is going to be exactly the same! I really can't complain too much because I really have the same discomforts of last week and nothing worse...knock on wood. The hardest part for some reason is driving. Even just two blocks in the driver's seat and I think I am going to die. It must be the perfect position for her to really cram herself into the rib cage.

We finished our child birth classes, the nursery is totally ready, hospital bags are packed in the car--we really just can't wait! It's so cute to see how excited Jeff is--that might change when the crying starts. We both are dying to see what she looks like.

Nothing else too exciting is going on around our household. Hopefully within the next two weeks there will be something more exciting to post!

The Petition

Before I get to this post, vote on my poll. With 3 weeks more to go I am getting more and more antsy to see what our little girl is going to look like!

As I was walking the other day I passed one of my favorite people: this little lady and her black poodle looking dog. This lady cracks me up. Seriously. She is out most of the days I am, but she doesn't actually walk her dog. She "hangs out" on the trail looking for others with dogs she can talk to. She will walk back and forth the same ten feet for I don't even know how long. Her dog is clearly her prized possession and the bling around the dog's neck clearly shows that.

Before I finish this story, you need to know I am not exactly a dog person. I'm not really an animal person period. I apologize to those of you that love pets, but I would really not be a good pet owner. Too much responsibility. I am the cranky one in the neighborhood that cannot stand to listen to other people's dogs barking. I have even made Jeff call the cops on a few obnoxious dogs that go off at all hours of the day and night. I am the one carrying pepper spray on the trail in case there is a loose dog. You get the picture.

Anywho, so as I pass this lady, we say, "good morning," as usual. She then sticks a clipboard in my face and asks me to sign a petition. I am intrigued and ask her what for. She then proceeds to tell me this petition is for a dog park. That's right, a dog park. Not wanting to be rude, I sign the petition. The whole time afterwards I am just laughing to myself thinking about how ironic it is that I, of all people, would sign a petition for a dog park. Not that I really care one way or the other about having one in town--as long as it's not near my house--but the fact that my name is on the petition like I really want this, is funny to me.

The funniest part is that I told Jeff I had signed a petition. Before I could tell him what for, he says, "let me guess, for a dog park?" Apparently he signed the same one at work. Why is this funny? He shares my sentiments about dogs. Like me, he didn't want to be rude, so he signed away. I guess we'll just have to get a dog now so we can go to the dog park we desperately wanted.

Six Years

Today we celebrate six happy years of marriage...time flies when you're having fun! I still can't believe I found such an amazing man. I really couldn't be any happier. I can't wait for the next six years!

Almost Ready

Less than five weeks to go! Last week I had an appointment and then I went to Idaho afterwards. I did not realize driving so far by myself would be so difficult at this stage! Thankfully Peggy let me stay the night after my appointment so I could split the trip into two days. This little baby just loves to play in my ribs and sitting in the driving position was almost unbearable! Now that I am home, I am going to go get a pre-natal massage tomorrow. I am so excited. Two of the moms of my kids from last year got me a gift certificate and I have been waiting to use it until I felt like I really needed it...yeah, I think I need it now!

Anyway, I had a good time in Idaho. I got to hang out with my mom and sister, grandparents, cousins, and all their cute little kiddos. My cousin Michelle made these little name plates for her girls and I thought they were so cute. So while I was there she was sweet enough to help me make some for our nursery. They look cuter in person. Now the only thing I have left to do in the nursery is to put the bedding on and get a shelf to hang over the dresser. It's nice to feel like there is an end...although I am a little, okay a lot, nervous for what is to come!

Am I a Human Target?

I know this isn't the best belly shot, but we were in a hurry and couldn't get a great side shot. Either way, you get the picture. I swear just from two days ago I am about 3 times bigger too...yay.

Anywho, back to the topic at hand. This morning I got up bright and early, as usual, to go walking. As I am lost in my thoughts, I feel something smack straight into my neck. It hit with quite a bit of force and for just a second, I wondered if I had been shot...I know, I'm dramatic. I feel my neck, but don't really feel anything. Then I look around wondering what just hit me. I look at the ground and see a shocked BIRD. That's right. Some kamikazi bird flew directly into me. WHAT THE? I'm always on the look out for things like, oh I don't know--dogs, skunks, mountain lions, but BIRDS? Seriously? I don't know if my large belly threw off its sense of direction or what, but I thought it was really strange. Maybe it was just looking for its mother. Who knows, but I just hope I don't get a bruise or something because that is not the best place for a bruise.

In other news, we are down to 6 weeks and counting! I feel a little more miserable each day. I had hoped just the last three weeks would be bad, but it's already starting. We started our child birth classes yesterday and I am pleased to announce that Jeff did not pass out. I, on the other hand, felt so nauseous I had to excuse myself halfway through. The room was really warm and lately I have been throwing up or had the urge to throw up nearly all day. It's like the morning sickness is back. Hip, hip hooray!

Fourth of July was really fun this year. Jeff's sisters were both visiting Utah so we scheduled an appointment that weekend. We went to the This is the Place monument and there were all sorts of fun things to do...like this watermelon eating contest. There was also a rodeo where the kids got to ride sheep, well, they got to fall off sheep. They all had battle wounds to prove how brave they were! They also had a family shower for me, and that, of course, was a blast. Our little one is pretty spoiled! We also had a family party and fireworks so we were definitely not bored! It was a fun weekend and great way to keep my mind of feeling uncomfortable!

Belly Blues

I can't believe I am posting again already...go me. But anyway, I have been catching the scrapbook up and looking through photos. As I look at pictures from last summer and years before, I think to myself, "wow, I can't believe I thought I was so fat." Now that my belly is doubling in size everyday before my eyes, I find myself laughing at some things, and crying at others. For example:

--I now bump into things on a regular basis.
--I have a really hard time cleaning the tub and bending over in general.
--I don't sleep much mostly because I have to pee and my legs are constantly cramping up.
--I spill on my belly.
--When I look down, I see nothing but my belly.

I know these things are pretty normal for pregnant women, but what happened today took the cake. I have now become a human windshield. I went walking as usual and there is this place by the river where there is always a swarm of these little gnat-like bugs. I got past them and about 5 minutes glanced at my protruding belly (it is hard to miss). It was then that I noticed about 30 dead gnats STUCK TO MY BELLY! I quickly brushed them off. At first I was very embarrassed wondering how many people I had passed since the bugs and then I almost started to cry, but I ended up laughing because I never, ever thought I would be a human windshield!

Thoughts

I haven't been blogging much lately, mostly due to lack of internet service at home, but also because I haven't had too much to blog about. I finally decided to sit down and try to update.

*Only 8 weeks left until we meet our little one.
It seems like forever and really fast all at the same time. I have
a lot left to do before she gets here...

*Lacking motivation. I have been lacking motivation for most things.
I blame it mostly on the heat, but I also think it has to do
with getting little sleep. I know that is just going to be worse
in 8 weeks!

*This summer definitely feels different than previous summers.
This is the first time I haven't been thinking and planning
for a new school year. Usually at this time I start getting
antsy to get in my room and start prepping.

*I should be getting the nursery together, but I haven't
really had the energy or motivation. I think it is
mostly due to lack of ideas. I really don't
know how to decorate so I am stalling. Maybe when
I have the bedding up I will be more inspired!

*I feel financially overwhelmed. I think a lot of it has to
do with knowing I won't be getting a paycheck
next year on top of a baby--holy expenses! We are
so incredibly grateful to all of our friends and family
who have helped us with so much of what we need. Now we have
a lot of the pricey items left to buy...strollers, playpen,
car seat, diaper bag, rocking chair,
video camera, etc.
The worst part is the doctor bills have already started coming...yippee.
Sure wish we could have taken advantage of having Educator's Mutual!

*We have already started the long, exhausting job of getting
wood for winter. We decided we better do it early.
Thankfully, we should be close to done. Poor Jeff
has really had to do all of the really hard stuff because I can't. Between
that, yard work, scouts, and work in general, he is exhausted.

*I am getting plenty of tips on being a mom, staying home,
what a newborn is like, how little sleep I will have,
etc. etc. etc! It's funny how everyone wants you
to know how hard it is going to be. Do I really seem like the type that lives
in fairytale land? I mean, I know
there will be some surprises, but I have
never had rose colored glasses on. I appreciate the
people who say things like, "your
life will be totally different, but better in so many
ways." Much less depressing.

*I am getting very nervous about the actual birth.
I am kind of a wuss about things like this.
Child birth classes start in a few weeks and I just
hope Jeff and I aren't both passed out in the back. I keep
telling myself that millions of people have gone through this, so
surely I can too. Again, this is a topic
everyone has a story about and likes to give advice.
I really don't like hearing horror stories about what
happened at this hospital or that, or what this nurse or
that doctor did, etc. I would really
rather not have more to worry about--I can do plenty
of worrying all by myself!

*Jeff is doing great. He still loves his job
and the people he works with. I'm so happy he found such a
great place to be. His co-workers made him a surprise
diaper cake last week. It was so cute and thoughtful.
Jeff was a little embarrassed carrying it around, but
at least he didn't have to ride the bus that day.
Hilarious.

*Every time we come to UT we want
to get together with friends, but the trips are always short
and jam packed with errands to run.
Since my doctor appointments are starting to become more
frequent , I look forward to getting together with many of you soon!
We miss you and love you all!

Rough Day

Today is the last day of school, and like every year, it is bittersweet. Today, it feels a little more bitter since it is my last day of school for I am not sure how long. It has been such a great year. It feels so strange and so incredibly sad to say goodbye to my career. As I look back on the last seven years, I can't help but feel unbelieveably grateful. I have worked at two incredible schools, with two incredible principals, colleagues that have become my best friends, and I have always had the best students and parents to work with. I have the best of memories and have made such great friends with so many people. I am excited to stay home with our little girl and be a mom, but I didn't anticipate just how hard it would be say goodbye to this part of my life. I feel like I am losing part of who I am and I can't believe I won't have a set of keys letting me into a school and a classroom. There are so many things I am going to miss:

*Summers of getting organized and ready for a new batch of kiddos--I love the anticipation
*Seeing the back to school sales and getting an excited/nervous pit in my stomach
*The night before school starts nightmares...well, maybe I won't miss those so much, or maybe I'll still get them
*The first month of school. I love training a new group and getting to know the kids!
*Planning and teaching the curriculum. I will especially miss watching the kids learn and get excited about what we are learning.
*The connection you make with students
*Halloween in an elementary school! Crazy day, but I LOVE it!
*Hearing "Mrs. Hunziker" or my favorite, "Hunziker", a hundred times a day from every kid in town
*Feeling part of a team
*Laughing with and playing jokes on colleagues
*Lunch in the faculty room
*The feeling of having grades done and turned in
*Parent/Teacher conferences...I really do like meeting and celebrating with the parents. Plus, I have to say, I really have worked with such positive parents and always enjoy visiting.
*When the long nights of parent/teacher conferences are over--they do tend to be exhausting!
*Looking forward to the breaks--Thanksgiving, Christmas, Summer
*Tracking student growth
*Holidays and theme days
*The always overflowing lost and found
*The funny things the kids say when you least expect
*The way the kids make you feel
*Read aloud...I love watching the expressions and excitement when we read a really good book
*Seeing the coats and backpacks hanging on the coathooks

and so much more...

Jeff has been so sweet and supportive this week, which has really helped out. I know when this little baby comes I will be so happy I stayed home and I know it will be hard, (harder than working) but worth it. This summer I think I am just going to have to focus on getting ready for the baby to keep my mind off of school. So weird...not only will I not be bringing home a paycheck, but I will no longer be known as a teacher.

The Belly

Okay, so I know a lot of you have actually seen the belly in person, but for those of you that have not yet had the opportunity...here it is...and it just keeps getting bigger and bigger! The kids are often caught staring at my belly and they rub it and talk to her on a regular basis. It's pretty cute. They always tell me how smart our little Heidi is going to be since she is already learning her multiplication facts. Jeff now reads to her every night too, so I'm sure she will be a genious. Just kidding.

The countdown is definitely on now--three more months from today! Whoo hoo! The crib is set up and now I need to start figuring out how to decorate. I am excited that Jonna is going to make her amazing baby bedding. Can't wait to see our little girl and start getting some of this weight off! I'm terrified of seeing just how much bigger I am going to get--ugh--definitely a downside to pregancy, but I'm sure it will be worth it in the end!

If you haven't heard the word...

We will be thinking pink! It's a girl! We are so excited!

Bathroom Reno.

The last 2 1/2 weeks have been crazy at our house. We completely gutted our bathroom and we are finally on the end stretch so here are some before and after shots. It turned out really nice and I'm glad we were able to get it done before the baby comes. Renovations always end up taking more time and costing more than expected, but it always seems worth it. I'm glad I married such a handyman. The worst part was the plumbing and prepping. We were lucky enough to have Jeff's parents come help us with the tiling. What lifesavers! They brought a tile saw so that saved on expenses and it went so much faster. We are so lucky to have family!

In other news, I am getting very big. Pictures to come soon. I hate this phase because I pretty much just feel fat! Oh well, August will be here soon. The countdown is also on...9 more days until we know if we're having a boy or a girl!

The Cat's Out of the Bag!

First things first--vote on my poll! I have always wanted to do a poll and I am excited to have a reason to have one.

So now all my kids know my exciting news...long story. Anyway, ever since they found out two days ago, my life has gotten just that much funnier. Seriously. I didn't think the kids would react the way they have.

Apparently a good story spreads like mad no matter what age you are. It all started when one little girl found out. Then she told someone and that was the end of it. All I heard for the last 15 minutes of school was whispers, "It's true. Ask her." Then of course two seconds later a student would approach me and say, "Are you going to have a baby?" Once they found out it was no rumor they would immediately get a huge grin on their face and run to tell someone else. It was pure comedy.

My favorite was as they were lining up to go home. One little girl started rubbing my stomach and talking to the baby in a very baby voice. I almost peed my pants listening to her conversation. It went something like this:

"Hello baby! Hello! Oh you are going to be a lucky baby, yes you are. I can't wait to see you! You are going to be so cute, just like your mommy!"--This last comment is why I love elementary school...they always think their teacher is the best one, love it.

Yesterday I had a HORRIBLE migraine and had to come home because I could not stop throwing up. Anyway, the kids could clearly tell I wasn't feeling well since I kept running to the bathroom. I told them I had to go home and it was so funny because they all gave me this knowing look and one of the kids goes, "It's okay Mrs. Hunziker, we understand." They are all experts on the whole pregnancy/baby thing by the way. Too funny.

Then today at the end of math I was standing in front of a little girl's desk and she goes:

"Mrs. Hunziker, I can definitely tell your stomach is getting bigger."

Now I know my stomach is growing, but I think she was just mostly saying it since she knew my "secret" because she then reached out to feel my stomach and informed everyone, "I just felt the baby kick!"

The best part was that as I was feeling self-conscious, one of my boys (who is now clearly my favorite student) says, "What? Mrs. Hunziker looks pretty skinny to me." His grades are definitely on the rise.

On the way out today all the kids gave me their hug for the day and the majority decided they needed to rub my stomach and say goodbye to the baby. It was just too funny. I love my class this year. They have so much personality and I love that they feel like they are part of this whole baby thing.

Updates

I don't really have an excuse for why it has taken me so long to write since my last post, but here I am a month later with updates.

Let's see...

*Due date: August 24

* Boy or Girl? We find out April 9. I think it's a boy, Jeff thinks it's a girl. Most people are having boys these days so it seems to make sense...

*Feeling okay, but still suffering with horrible migraines 3-4 times/month. Having a student teacher has definitely been helpful. I have a prescription for something that is supposed to be safe, but still not sure whether or not I'll actually pick it up. If I didn't know this before, I definitely know it now: Tylenol sucks. I think it's safe because it does absolutely nothing and quite possibly makes headaches worse.

*I went to my 16 week appointment Friday. The heartbeat was 147. Everything looks good so far.

*I put in my resignation letter last Monday....it was a hard day and a hard decision. Definitely the hardest decision I have ever had to make. I hadn't planned on making the decision so soon, but when a $500 stipend was offered, I decided I had better decide. I cried for about 3 hours straight and then realized that we have been fasting and praying for this little miracle for a very long time and the thought of dropping it off was more than I could handle. I feel like I am losing a piece of who I am, but I know it was the right decision for me. I have LOVED the last 7 teaching years and have learned so much. Back to a tight budget! I hope to go back someday and my principal wants me to come in and teach writing lessons every now and then.

*We have been spending a lot of time looking at baby stuff and have become very overwhelmed...how can something so small require so much? Then there is the question of what is really necessary because let's face it, I really don't want extra stuff around if I don't need it! Where did everyone find their cribs and changing tables?? I need some ideas.

*We are making plans to gut our upstairs bathroom before I get too much farther along so I can be a little more help. I can't wait to have that project out of the way.

*At my last doctor appointment I found out horrible news. If you know me, you know I have been searching for a long time to find a good doctor. Well, last summer I found him, and I love him. On Friday I found out he won't be around when our baby is born because he is in the national guard and was called to Afghanastan. What are the chances? That was devastating for me, but I know it will work out. Now I just need to get familiar with the other doctors in the practice.

*I found out I can't run anymore...now that was not fun to hear. I have been banned to walking. Before I had to slow to jogging, but that was still better than walking. It will be worth it and hopefully I can get back into a routine after the baby is born.

*No pictures of the belly yet, because apparently there isn't too much to see yet. I definitely know it's there and growing. I have a bad feeling I am going to be huge, but in clothes I guess no one can tell because all I hear all day is, "So when are you going to start showing?" I keep thinking, "Please tell me my stomach didn't always look like this."

So, that pretty much wraps it up...would love any and all advice about how to prepare and where to get what I need!

FINALLY!!!!

...and we can finally say something!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Talk about a hard secret to keep for 12 weeks.

While Jeff's Away...

It has been really lonely around our house lately. Jeff has been working weird hours for the last few weeks and will continue to work weird hours for the next little while. I think it affects me much more than him. He switches from days to nights and it is really hard. He will work 12 hour days for a few days and then have one day off and go back to nights. I HATE IT!!! I feel like I haven't talked to him for weeks. I especially hate going to church by myself. Anyway, I have been trying to keep myself busy by hosting game nights and getting things done around the house. This last weekend I went over to my friend's and we made these little crafts. They turned out really cute...better than the pictures because the colors are slightly off. I love doing this kind of stuff and wish I had more time for it. If only I had a maid....