cry baby.

As always...the moosh that I am I get all emotional around the holidays, and it doesn't help this year that my hormones are doing some wacky things. I can't help but think of how truly blessed I am to have such wonderful family and friends. A life that is pretty close to perfect for only being 25 years old. A husband who works so hard for our future, a beautiful house that we have now been in for almost four years, our koda and mikki who show us so much love, two businesses that have taught us a lot, a daughter on the way, and family that would do anything for us. My life is filled with such great memories and it is a blessing.
As time is creeping up on Laila's arrival, I can't help but think of how wonderful life is going to be. Yea...maybe a little crazy at first, but we are going to have our own little creation and person to take care of. That will look up to us and show us unconditional love. I can't wait to hear her first cry and hold her in my arms for the first time. Only a little over 6 weeks to go, and its down to crunch time. Now we just have the finishing touches to be done on her room. Even though we are still awaiting her crib, I am trying not to stress. Only two more weeks of work and I will have more time to do more of my nesting. That's if I can get some energy back...I have been in some pain due to her hiding out in my ribs and being a little kicking monster. It's causing really bad side and backpains. I get sharp pains near my sternum. My tummy hurts a lot lately, try using the bathroom, and it's just gas. This part is just so uncomfortable and causes a lot of discomfort. I woke up one night with such bad stomach pains, I thought I could possibly be having contractions. Nope...just more gas! How much fiber do I have to take in order for a proper bm to come out? For so long I have been saying that I can wait, I'm not ready yet...but days of pain like that, I keep saying...let's just get her out already.

doctors, pediatricians, and ultrasound techs...oh my!

We have hit that 33 week mark and this week has been filled with appointments. Once again I had my bi-weekly check with the doc. Everything went smoothly...except I put on 5 lbs in a matter of 2 weeks. I have had a little swelling in my ankles and feet, so the nurse said that could have something to do with it. I have now gained a total of 26 lbs. I was told to put my feet up every chance I get to help reduce the swelling (try telling someone that who always has to be on her feet doing something). I think I am listening this time...because surprise surprise...it seems to help. My kankles are almost back to normal.
We got to sit down with Laila's pediatrician, Dr. Alvarez. We have met him before and just knew we would go with him since he is part of Laila's papou's practice. He asked our concerns and informed us on the normal things that will happen when she arrives. Again...like I say everytime...it was so surreal. I got a little teary eyed as always. I got into thinking about in less then 2 months we will be changing her stinky, wet diapers and holding her in our arms. And soon, our lives will do a total turn and our creation will be here. We can't wait!
Today was our sonogram day. We have been so lucky to get to see Laila so much with all the sonograms we have had. This one was to check her weight and make sure everything was still on schedule since my bump was measuring 3 weeks early. There is no worries...I am still on schedule for january 16th and will go full term just as long as everything stays like it is. Our sonotech Rhonda told us by tomorrow we will have a 5 lb turkey roasting for thanksgiving! Laila weighs as of today 4.93 lbs. and is in the 70th percentile. I have extra fluid in my belly and that is leaving her so much room to wiggle around, which is why I can feel her so much. Her heart rate was great and she is content and happy as can be. She has the perfect little head, a precious smile, and daddy's lips. Rhonda looked at me and said you have nothing to worry about, you will have an easy labor. Somehow when she kept saying the word perfect it made me feel so much better. She is fantastic! The extra fluid in my belly will help me go right back down to size after the birth. I am greatful as it is that I have no stretch marks (knock on wood). It's amazing how the techs can give you an approximate weight of the baby at birth. She told us 7 lbs 11, 12, 13 oz....around there. I think I can handle that! We are just so greatful for her being healthy and can't wait for our beautiful girl to be here.

think pink pepto.

Laila's room is finally painted! We absolutely love it! It's bright and fabulous. Here is just a sneak peek...but you will have to wait to see the rest. We are still waiting on some furniture to come. I still have yet to figure out were we will be sitting when we have those late night feedings. The search has begun on for a rug and I think I found the perfect one. We are working on a special Laila wall hanging. But it's all fun from here. The decorating is my specialty. I want everything to be completed before she arrives, which now from my last blog you probably realized could be sooner then later. But no worries...she will be in our room for a good month or so before she even uses her room. Stay tuned for the finishing product because this is all your going to get for now.

Hubbie painting away!

Almost complete after a long day.

Our little man was so confused...he got paint on his ear.

Laila will never get a tummy ache.

wow!

Today was a big day...Laila had her photoshoot. Well the one she will remember. Last week she was sleeping the entire time we went. It was a good thing the dvd player decided not to work. So we got to go back and experience it all over again. This time I prepared myself. I made sure to have a cup of caffienated coffee to wake her up a bit, and did it work. It was amazing seeing her in action. She was yawning, had the hiccups, and was enjoying mama and dada watching her. Of course the emotional mush I am I started crying when I first saw her and they turned on the sappy daughter music. It's an indescribable feeling.

Now for a bit of a shock...I had a check today with Dr. Marks. My blood pressure was fine, gained another pound which is normal. Now I have gained a total of 21 lbs. I am now measuring 3 weeks earlier then my due date! Which could possibly mean a Christmas baby. Oh no! I was SO not ready for that. The doctor set me up for an ultrasound the day before Thanksgiving to check the weight. I get in my car, call hubbie, and start crying. I was a little freaked out because there is so much we have left to do (at least I get to blame it on the hormones) Our childbirth class is scheduled for December 14th! If i'm 3 weeks early then expected that means we could possibly have Laila 2 weeks after our class...ahh! Good thing we did our hospital tour month's back because seeing the beautiful rooms really helps calm you down. Let's just hope Laila won't be so big were I have to have a c-section. I was 6 lbs 8 oz. and Jason was 10 lbs. Let's just hope she will be in between that and she is healthy. She is in perfect position. Keep you posted on the appointment I have in 2 weeks. I need a little feng shui in my life.

Enjoy Laila Gianna's snapshots!

celebrating my belliness.

Laila's shower was so beautiful! My sister did an amazing job. I can not believe the assembly line of gifts that I had to open. She is already so blessed and loved by so many. Our family and friends make us feel so blessed! Laila's room is fully covered and her closet is so full. Everyone brought a book instead of a card so we have her book collection started. We have already started reading to her in utero and she is loving it! Now that the shower is over...we have many projects to work on. So stay tuned for Laila's photoshoot and nursery pictures!


Thanks for everyone who made our shower so special! We couldn't ask for better friends and family. xoxo!

the Laila in a pod cake.

Kris, the mama, and Marisa.

games and more games!

Laila's first pair of heels.

The alphabet quilt Aunt Joan made (I still have the one she made me when I was a kid). She will put Laila's name and birthday on it once she arrives.

The great grandmas, the grandmas, and the aunties.

Laila left a little something for everyone.

Cousin Jordan can't wait to meet Laila.

mama and dada after a long day!

laila, laila, laila!

Laila is moving so much. Now it is to the point were you can actually see her elbow or foot when you look at my tummy. It's a weird feeling...like your tummy hardens, you look down and see a little formation poking out like an alien. I get scared to touch it because it feels so weird ha! I kept telling her please stop moving so much! I sing "you are my sunshine" to her to calm her down. she wants to come out already. and I don't blame her. But sorry Laila...mama's not ready yet.

We finally transferred all the guest room furniture out of her room. So it's empty besides the changer and swing that we put together last night. We were so excited to have the crib all together and it came in damaged. So now I was stressing that the furniture isn't good quality and we spent so much mulla on it. I am such a nitpicker when it comes to furniture...I need to just calm myself. So we now have to wait for the crib and dresser. Maybe it's a good thing since we still have to paint. Hubbie and I laughed so hard last night. It took us a good 45 minutes to install the swing we received from some friends up north. We couldn't figure out how to clip on one part. Jason looked at me and said...we can barely do this and we are going to be parents in 3 months!? It was so surreal putting our peanuts things together. The dogs were a little baffled. But they probably won't understand until she arrives home. Just counting down the days. keep ya posted.
here is the infamous swing....

entering the third trimester.

I can remember clear as can be the day I found out I was pregnant. I was about a week late, but didn't want to take a test because I knew I have been through this before. All the disappointments after 6 months of trying. This saturday morning was different. Two lines appeared this time. My heart was pounding and I couldn't believe it...like really I had to pinch myself. I was freaking out! Jason was sleeping and I had to work so I just left and headed for CVS to purchase another test to make sure. I arrived at work and Fran saw me glowing and she knew exactly what I was glowing about. She made me go in the bathroom to take the other test. This time it wasn't the 2 lines...it actually said pregnant! I don't think there is a word that describes how I was feeling. Later that night I told Jason.
Now I am a little over 27 weeks...time is flying! I have been very fortunate so far with an easy pregnancy. I have the backpain and the discomfort. But never really got sick. Yesterday I had the braxton hicks contractions...or so I think from reading all 20 pregnancy books i own. Sharp pains shooting down the vj? yea...i think thats it.
I feel like there isn't enough time in the day. I'm am being extremely obsessive about making room in the house. Her room still needs to be painted and her crib and changing table have already arrived. And now that I can almost officially say I'm in the 3rd trimester scares the heck out of me. It's almost here. Sometimes I feel ready and other times I am just terrified to even think about it. I try to focus on the exciting things. The shower, Laila's nursery, and when I get to see that little face everyday.
I am going to be a mommy! How weird does that sound? Remember when you were a little girl and all you wanted to do was play house and you had your own baby. I am actually going to be living that. Then my little girl will be doing the exact same thing. It's such a beautiful thing.

i'm in a frenzy!

i'm ready to redecorate.
have my baby shower.
complete the nursery.
have laila be here.

i'm soooo overjoyed with excitement!

10 things that put my panties in a wod.

prego women can barely do anything...

1. can't eat any fish because of the damn mercury (not fair...of course we are going to crave this), i'm tired of eating chicken!

2. can't go to fun events with friends like halloween horror nights because you get worried someone will bump your belly or you will get so terrified you'll pee your pants (our bladders can only take so much...you can't even sneeze without a little leakage) There is always the option of a wheelchair...but what fun is that?

3. can't go jogging to try and keep yourself in shape because your belly just weighs ya down. You have to stick to the indoor stretching, yoga, or just fast paced walking. Walking the dogs seems to be the extent of my exercise plan.

4. can't consume alcoholic beverages. period. why the heck not...haven't we suffered enough. Even with breastfeeding you can't drink that much. You have your limits. Yea...i know makes me sound like an alcoholic. Our hubbies tend to do enough drinking for the both of us during pregnancy.

5. can't lift anything heavy. We have too much to do around the house to prepare for the little one. Which means getting all crazy and stepping on ladders to reach the highest shelf in the closet.

6. can't enjoy a day off of work because you are at the doctor's office most of the day. Getting checked and poked with needles.

7. can't see your hoohah unless you have a mirror infront of you. Makes things a little more difficult to clean up...you get my point.

8. can't wair those fabulous pairs of heels anymore. You can, but trust me at this point your back is killing you and all you want to throw on is a pair of flops.

9. can't move as fast as you used to. Now I know how the old folks feel.

10. can't sleep a full night because your either peeing, back hurts, or the baby wakes you up. And now days of sleeping on your back are over. Side sleeping is the only option...so they say.

oh...and one more thing...can't even have a functional brain.

Some advice for all you fellow preggers or planning on becoming prego...invest in this book.

3 things.

little britainusa on hbo is hilarious!!! see for yourself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9lo9e78alk

my brother is hanging with Screech from Saved by the Bell tonight...jealous! I wanted to be the one who asks him how Zack Morris is doing.

and my poor little man Koda just threw up all over the bed. I thought I would be able to just take the comforter off and be good. No...never that easy, it soaked all the way through to the sheets. So now at 8pm at night I have to strip the bed, wash the sheets and disinfect everything. No more soup bones for my little mooshman.

Gosh...this is just the beginning. I'll be up in the middle of the nights changing poopy diapers and god knows what other bodly fluids from Laila.

updates on the prego life.

I must say I have had a really easy pregnancy considering some of these horrid stories I have heard. A little nausea in the beginning but never got sick were I was hoovering over the toilet feeling like I was going to die. I wasn't able to barely eat, besides the occassional saltine or ensure drink to get something in my tummy. No one could even tell I was pregnant until the last month. So far so good with the stretch marks (keeping up everyday with my palmer's cocoa butter), no linea nigra, no nasty skin lesions, no excessive weight gain (except for the 10 lbs. I put on in a matter of one month! but let me get to that later.) I mean everything has seemed to be going perfectly. And just to know that everytime we go to the doctors (which is now like twice a month) the doc informs us our baby girl is healthy and moving like the next michael phelps makes us extremely happy. Laila Gianna (yep...we finally named her and were too impatient to wait to tell anyone) has been non stop in my belly. It's such an indescribable feeling! And now Jason get's to feel her all the time. In the beginning, I would be sitting in the next room screaming at him to come and put his hands on my belly bump so he could feel her. He couldn't feel anything...it's like she stopped once she knew daddy wanted to feel. Then this past week he got to feel her kicking and punching every night. Daddy's face just lit up! "ooooh god...that's so weird" he says. Yea...try carrying her and feeling her all day and night. She wakes me up and everytime after I eat she is moving like there is an alien taking over my body. You can now see my bump move a little. I get the occassional cramps...which worry me because they say that can be a sign of early labor. Then I think "oh its probably just gas." I miss being able to lay on my belly to make the pain go away. The headaches are finally gone, but now it made its way to my back! The maternity massage last week helped for about a day. These past couple weeks I have had the pain under my ginormous boobies. I can't cough without it hurting. It's harder to breathe. And the nasty taste of acid indigestion...bring on the tums! I wouldn't trade these feelings in for anything.

The start of Laila's nursery has begun. We got her closet done. So much more space. But still have the clutter of her stroller, swing, and all the other gifts she has gotten already. And we haven't had the shower yet. Not to mention we still have all the guest room furniture in there that needs to be moved over to the other bedroom, but can't be done until I call people to pick it up. I'm procrastinating...i know! We still have to paint (but are going to hold off until I get the bedding that is ordered online). The furniture will be ordered within the next week and then it will all come together. I want everything to be done before she gets here. Even though she will be sleeping in our room for a good 2 months. I think my nestyness gets me crazy. I need to just sit back and relax. I am a cleaning machine...probably doing more then I should be being 25 weeks pregnant. I just feel like there is not enough time. The holidays will be here and past and before ya know it the Laila that I have been carrying for 9 months will be here! Thank goodness for family...always here to help!

I got my checklist of appointments and things to schedule. Made the prenatal appt with the pediatrician today...so that's one thing checked off the baby do list. I have doctor appointments every other week it seems. So, my appointment on Friday made me upset and nervous. The nurse did the usual routine of taking my blood pressure and weight. When she weighed me her face didn't look to reassuring when she was doing the math. I asked her how much I gained total as of now. 18 lbs! ok...now that sounds like a ton of weight to me...but everyone I talked to said how lucky I am. The nurse said I gained a lot in a matter of a month. Well duh! My bump just popped out a lot in a matter of a month, of course I'm going to put on a lot this time in the pregnancy. She said I am still under the normal weight. Now Laila is gaining all her fat...so it's time to stop eating the late night junk food and loaded nachos! But my belly is the only weight gained. My arms and legs are still kimmy skinny. The hormones take over and I start to cry saying I'm fat...I hate that picture of me. This week I didn't meet with Dr. Marks, I met with another doctor in the practice. She sat with me asking me what they ask me every week. "How are you feeling?" Then plops you up on the table to check the heartbeat. It took her a good 5 minutes to find the heartbeat. I starting getting worried. Every other time they would place it on the exact spot and you heard it right away. Every place she put the doppler it was me...my tummy noises. Laila wasn't cooperating! I then felt her moving like crazy. She was moving around so much she couldn't keep the doppler on her heartbeat. With all these scary stories I have been hearing of people loosing their babies freaks me out and breaks my heart. I can't even imagine.

God and our loved ones in the heaven's are watching over us. Only 100 days to go and as nervous as I am...I am sooo excited!! I can't wait to meet her!

time flies when your busy and prego.

It's been too long since I have updated you on our busy lives. It has been completely insane. Every chance I get I am nesting around the house, on baby websites, or reading up on baby books. The seconds trimester is already come and gone. I felt pretty good but still could never get enough sleep. We found out it's a girl! And we couldn't be more thrilled. When the sono tech turned to us and said we were having a daughter I started crying! We are now getting the nursery together. Our furniture is picked out, names are in the works (we think we might have compromised on one!), all the big stuff seems to be complete. I went to my breastfeeding class, doing the hospital tour this weekend, and my calender keeps filling up. I am a busy body and am actually liking it. My belly bump is now a lot bigger...yet I have only gained about 8 lbs now. Our little girl is perfect and healthy in the womb right now. Everything is going perfect! Except for my bad headaches and bachaches....err!

days go by.

I can not believe I am now into my 2nd trimester. Time is flying by! Before you know it our little pea will be here.

Things have been going well. We got to see the baby again on the 10th. It was so amazing! Peanut was jumping around in my belly. Like he/she knew we were watching. The sonogram tech said I am a week earlier then they thought. So now baby is due January 16, 2009. We will get to see the baby again on September 11th to find out the sex. My belly is popping out more and more everyday. I can no longer wear any of my old jeans or shorts. Just whatever stretchy clothes I have. I finally had some luck finding some good deals on maternity wear. Good thing for Target! ha! Our bank account will be in trouble once I go to Orlando to shop at Mall of Millenia and all the outlets. I hear they have a ton of maternity...like Gap, Ann Taylor! Ohhh my favs!

I feel so overwhelmed right now. Like there is always something I need to be doing to prepare for the baby. Things will all come together...you know me mrs. procrastinator. Not much you really can do though. Pregnant women can't do anything...you get yelled at if you lift something, you bend over to pick something up. And i don't even have my big belly yet! Still hard to believe im even carrying a little human.

Ok...enough about baby. I had a Lia Sophia party for my mom. Mom got a ton of free jewelry and I got a ton of mulla. I can't wait to get back into doing the parties again. Lord, give me more motivation and energy. Anyone wanting to book with me?

Just a quick update...until next time.

my motherly instincts.

I am almost in my 2nd trimester. Only 1 week and 2 days to go! I hear the 2nd is the easiest...so I am looking forward to it. I will have more energy...let's only hope. I have a little belly...probably from eating everything in site. ha! I want my bump to start showing...it's so amazing!

Thursday we get to hear peanut's heartbeat. So much to look forward too! We already picked out the stroller, and once we find out what we are having at 20 weeks we will be going crazy with the shopping. My motherly duties are already kicking in. I am wanting to prepare the house and get it all "babyproofed". We had our lawn sodded so I know we will now have beautiful grass to go and be able to play outside without dragging in nasty weeds and dirt. Next...moving the guest bedroom to the computer room. Then onto the nursery. Got to move all my clothes and Jason's suits out of the closet to make room for Baby Geraci's clothes.

I feel the need to cook every night even though I tell myself when I get home I will go and lay in bed. I am about non stop until 10:30, cleaning or making some kind of food. About a week ago, I made keish (sp?) and tonight made hotdogs, mac & cheese, and beans....mixed it all together! yum! After that I cut up about 5 pounds of fruit. ha! Been craving that since I have been so dehydrated. All I have to say is thank goodness I am not going to be huge over the summer. I wouldn't be able to handle it. I am already having hot flashes as it is.

ok...night time.

blah.

i'm so moody. my tummy hurts. i am sleepy. can't decide if i'm hungry or stuffed. i feel fat. and i just want hubbie to get home so i can have some chocolate milk, lay in bed and have him rub my back. he is so wonderful to me.

just felt like venting about how i am feeling.