Madison's Arrival

I wanted to let everyone know how Miss Madison Smyser decided to grace us with her presence on Friday, August 13th (minus all the yucky details, because really, who wants to think about that). This will be a long entry, but I'm going to bold the important/funny parts, so feel free to skim through my ramblings!

Thursday, August 12th, I went in for a non-stress test and check-up as I was just 3 days overdue at that point. The appointment went well, and I was told to plan on coming back the following Tuesday for another non-stress test and an ultrasound if I hadn't had her by then. After those tests, we'd talk about inducing. I really felt like nothing was going to happen, and in my head planned on having her the following week. I joked with Josh that I was glad because I didn't want to have a Friday the 13th baby. Josh was so supportive of this and sang, "1-2 Freddy's coming for you," multiple times to me that day. Jerk. :)

Later that evening, Josh and I went to dinner at Exotic Thai with my Dad and brother. Brandon bought our dinner (what a nice brother), and I casually joked, that he was buying my last dinner before I went into labor.

Around 9:30pm, Josh and I just sat down to watch the "So You Think You Can Dance" finale we had dvr'd (yes, Josh is a fan of that show and watches it willingly). All of the sudden...I felt something different, and I ran/fast waddled to the bathroom...just in time for my water to break! I started to panic a bit and couldn't believe that "it" was finally happening. I yelled for Josh, and we called the doctor's office. I packed a few last minute items and we were off to the hospital!

We were finally admitted and all settled in around 1am. We were up all night in labor, and at about 4am I decided the have an epidural because contractions are NO fun and being told to just "breath through them" was irritating me. I had really wanted to try and have her without drugs, but oh well... (A huge kudos to all you Mom's with natural drug-free deliveries!)

Around 1:15pm on Friday it was time to push. And I did just that...for 3 long, tiring, exhausting hours. I was physically exhausted from being up since 8am Thursday morning, and I was also starving the whole time since I had not eaten since dinner around 6:30pm on Thursday. Go figure, I'm having a baby, and all I can really think about is what I want to eat once she is born.

About 2.5 hours in, we discovered that Madison had a bigger head than they had thought, and I have a tiny pelvis...what a great combination, right?!? Finally, the doctor arrived around 4pm (I'm guessing), and had to use the vacuum to assist in the delivery. She arrived at 4:17pm with a head full of hair, just one small wail, and eyes wide open. We couldn't believe she was only 4 ounces from being a 9 lb. baby!!!

Josh was absolutely the GREATEST husband throughout the delivery. And, I had the best nurse! I am so thankful because I don't think I could have done it without them.

Delivering Madison was one of the most challenging experiences of my life, but also the most wonderfully indescribable. Seeing Josh hold her for the first time melted my heart...he finally had his "mini-Meg!"

Nursery Update #2

The nursery is finally complete...well, as complete as it's gonna get anyways!

From the doorway:

(Yes, Winky has a doggie bed in there!)

Look to your left:

The glider/ottoman is great!

The closet:

The book shelf:

Again, a HUGE THANK YOU to everyone that helped contribute to completing the nursery and making sure Baby Smyser has everything and more that she'll need! We are sooo grateful for all our family and friends that have been so giving and generous! :) We can't wait for you all to meet our baby girl!

I can't believe this is my 37th week! It's scary to think I really could go into labor any day now!

**Yikes!**

Dear Baby Smyser

Dear Baby Smyser,

So far, you and me have gotten along pretty well. It's been all rainbows and cupcakes really...and I'm thankful to say I've been feeling good and haven't experienced too many of those not so fun side effects of pregnancy that I've heard about...for that, I truly want to thank you.

However...I feel like these last two months may be a different story....and, I think your graciousness may be heading out the door. I just want to remind you (and mostly me) that I know everything will all be worth it in the end.

I couldn't be more thankful or honored to be your Mommy in just a couple months. So, if you hear me selfishly complaining too much these next few weeks about being uncomfortable or whatever else, just know I don't really mean it...just like I know you don't really mean to jam your feet into my ribs and bladder so hard it takes me breath away.

Love,

Mommy

P.S. Here we are out and about bidding jobs with Daddy!

3d/4d Ultrasound Recap

Say, "Hello," to Baby Smyser!

(I think if you click on the picture, it will enlarge if you'd like.)

Baby Smyser was a bit uncooperative in a sense because she refused to look straight on towards the "camera." She was just too comfy I guess where she was. She was positioned with her head on my left, and she was facing up towards my face...if that makes sense.... It made sense to me because most of the major movement I feel is towards the middle and right side of my belly. Later, as Josh and I were talking about her position, he said, "That's a looong time to be laying down like that!" I asked him how, and if, he expected her to be "standing" up inside there?! He's so funny sometimes!

She also kept her arms/hands near her face most of the time. Although we weren't able to get a great full face picture, we were able to get several profile pictures. We were also able to see her make some facial expressions and move her mouth. I think it kind of look likes she is smiling in this one!

Since she enjoyed having her hands in fists near her face so much, we decided to keep a picture of her little fist. She looks like she is flexing in this one!

We tried rubbing/jiggling her a couple times to get her to move, and she did move...just not the ways we wanted her too! One time she even turned her head (so she was facing my back) so all we could see was the back of her head.

I said she was being feisty...and Josh said, "Uh oh, she's being stubborn just like her mother!" Isn't he hilarious?! Here she is covering her face...I imagined her thinking, "No more pictures, please...can't I just go back to sleep already?!"

Overall, we had a wonderful experience Saturday! Tracy, my Dad and my Brother were able to attend as well. It was great to hear the heartbeat again, too. I can't believe the next time we will "see" this little baby will be when she is born!

Random Updates

Hello! No fun pictures this time, but I thought I'd record some random updates for you all (and for me so I don't forget)...I know you're on the edge of your seat waiting...(riiiight....?)... This is my 28th week...so I 'm officially in the 3rd trimester!

Where to begin...

1) Yes, we do have names picked out! No, I'm not telling you. :-) You'll have to wait until Baby Smyser decides to make his/her entrance into the world.

2) Overall, I've been feeling pretty good. I've still been walking with Winky for an hour about 3 times a week. I don't know who despises it more...me or Winky...but I know it's good for us, so I make us go.

3) Baby Smyser likes to sit on some nerve that makes my right outer thigh feel numb and prickly. It's weird, but it's not painful or anything.

4) Last Saturday, Josh gave me fashion advice for pregnant women that he learned watching some segment on the Rachael Ray show. I was glad he approved of my outfit choice.

5) I made the mistake of walking down the bottle aisle at Target yesterday. Who knew there were going to be a bazillion choices for a stinkin' bottle? Ugh.

6) Sleeping is becoming more uncomfortable. Not only do I have to share my bed with my husband and my dog, now I have to make room for my baby belly, too...

7) My husband says, "Man, your belly is SO big!" to me AT LEAST once a day. He means well though, so I guess it's ok. :-)

8) No, my belly button has not popped out. I really hope it doesn't. I think Josh is secretly hoping it does.

Well, there you go. Hopefully none of this was TMI...sorry if it was!

Our 3d/4d ultrasound is in 3 days, and I can't wait!

Uncle Brandon's Debut on the Blog!

Last week my Dad and Brother came over to put together the last piece of furniture for the nursery. There were a LOT of pieces! It looked very complicated to me. I was glad they were there!

They made it seem pretty simple though...I guess following the directions probably helped!

Almost done...

FINISHED!

Josh and I really appreciated their help! I am also excited to one day be able to tell Baby Smyser that Grandpa Dave and Unckie Brandon (that's what Josh and I call him!) put this dresser together for him/her!

Only 11 more days until the 3d/4d ultrasound! I am getting anxious!

I Can't Believe We Own A Crib?!

After much (probably too much) deliberation and stress, I finally picked out the crib and dresser for Baby Smyser. Last Sunday my Dad came over to assist Josh in putting the crib together. I have proof that the guys (including Winky) followed the directions!

Winky was very nosy and wanted to be a part of the action at all times! I think he is chewing on a screw driver right here...

They look confused here, but it actually went really smooth!

Yay! It's completed! I can't believe that in a few months there will be a baby in there!!!

I still haven't finalized a theme/decorations for the nursery...I've moved on from the yellow/duck theme, and have been more attracted to the zoo animal themed stuff at stores, but we'll see. I plan on making myself make a decision by the end of May!

Thanks, Grandpa Dave!

Yesterday my Dad went with me to purchase the stroller/car seat combo Josh and I had decided on for Baby Smyser. (Josh had to work so he couldn't come.) Dad was surprised at how many options and other stuff is out there now for babies...I guess it has been over 25 years since he's really had to think about that!

There was some minor assembly required, and I'm glad Dad stuck around to help me out (I think Josh was glad too).

Winky was initially scared of the stroller and stayed away while we assembled it. Once it was all put together and sitting in the dining room Winky even growled at it...which is strange because I think that is the first time I've ever heard him growl! I made him come and sniff it and lay by it, and while he still seems cautious about it, he hasn't growled since. I told Winky he better get used to it because later this year, Baby Smyser will be joining us on our walks in this stroller! I plan on keeping it in the house for a while so he can just get used to it.

After posing for this picture, I asked Josh, "How do I look?" (Always a risky question to ask husband.) He said, "Like a Mom."

I have to admit...I'm still getting used to the fact that I am (going to be) a Mom (of a human that is...ha)!

24 Weeks...Here We Come!

So, here I am at the end of my 23rd week!

I'm now officially starting week 24! Overall, I've been feeling pretty good! I feel like I'm huge though! I've been walking Winky about 3x a week for around an hour. The weather has been gorgeous, and I'm enjoying our walks so much!

I am feeling the baby move daily...mostly in the evenings and mornings, and occasionally I'll notice it during the day. I've been waking up between 6 and 6:30am everyday to go to the bathroom. It's kinda weird I think! After going to the bathroom, I almost always feel Baby Smyser give a kick or two, and sometimes I can't get back to sleep, so my sleeping patterns are starting to change.

Josh has felt Baby Smyser move once. The OB reminded me Baby Smyser is only about 1 lb, so, the movement will be getting much stronger over time of course, so I know there will be plenty of time for him to feel movement as the weeks progress. Josh thought it was so crazy when he felt it kick. I think he almost couldn't believe it?!

Last Friday I had a check up, and the OB said I am measuring right at 23 weeks and I'm doing great overall. The heartbeat was nice and strong, and as always, it's so fun to hear! At my next appointment in a month, I'll have the gestational diabetes screening. Ooh fun!

Breakfast of Champions

I woke up at 5am to go to the bathroom and couldn't fall back asleep. I finally got up around 5:45am, and being the nice wife that I am, I ran an errand for the husband, and offered to pick him up something for breakfast. His breakfast request was a Monster energy drink. (Yeah, don't get me started on those...I shouldn't support his habit, but anyways....)

So, I ran the errand (taking a picture of a finished job at a school...had to do it before school started), and then stopped at Walgreens because I had to pick up some more prenatal vitamins. With the vitamins and monster drink in hand, I headed to check out counter. I nice looking woman...probably 50-ish rang me up and said, "Oh, should pregnant women being drinking these energy drinks?" I was a bit stunned and just replied, "Um, it's not for me," while thinking in my head, "you old busy-body!"

When I got home, I told Josh the story, and he said I should have replied, "Oh...I should probably stop smoking crack cocaine, too." Oh, Josh.

Easter Fun and Other Updates!

This last weekend family from MN visited to celebrate Easter. It was a fun-filled weekend with egg coloring, too many sugary goodies, an egg hunt, lots of laughs, good food, games, and more!

I decorated an egg for Baby Smyser, but the writing didn't show up great. Oh well...it's the thought that counts, right?

Also, our cousins, Jenny and Hollie, were kind enough to surprise Baby Smyser and me with too many nice gifts! I was really touched by their thoughtfulness and excited to add to Baby Smyser's collection. Baby Smyser now has two super soft blankies, burp cloths, and more! It was really too much, and so much appreciated by Josh and me (and Baby)!

Winky had to check out the goods, too!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

I've also decided that maybe letting family and friends touch my belly is more bearable than I thought. Both Hollie and Jenny requested to touch my belly, and I have to admit it didn't bug me as much as I thought. *If you're reading this and thinking I'm giving a free pass to belly rubbings...that's NOT what I'm saying...still give me some warning, please! :-)

I have been feeling what I thought was movement/kicks, but just wasn't 100% sure. I mean, how are you supposed to know what something feels like when you've never felt it before!? Anyways, I can now comfortably say I've been feeling movement and it's the weirdest most wonderful feeling ever! I called Josh when I knew that's what I felt last night. He asked me, "Did you poke her back?" (Yes, he's still sure it's a girl...me, I'm waiting for confirmation at our ultrasound in May...yes, I know I have a while to wait!)

I can't believe we only have 4 more months to go. Time is flying, and I feel like we still have a lot to do! Yikes! I think next on my list is picking out nursery furniture and the theme. Wish me luck!

Shopping for Baby and Mommy

Thursday I headed to Williamsburg, IA with Tracy and Bev for a day of shopping at the outlet mall. I actually hate shopping in general, so it was my goal to get ALL the main pieces I'd need for maternity wear for the summer. I am happy to report I feel that it was a success!

Usually, my main stops at the outlet are Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Tommy Hilfiger, etc. but today, Motherhood Maternity was the only place to be for me! I was able to get 3 pairs of capris, 2 comfy pairs of yoga pants, a cardigan, and 8 short sleeve and sleeveless tops! Can you tell I like black? Tracy and Bev were super generous and thoughtful and purchased some of the pieces for me as an early birthday gift. THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

I am sure I will pick up a few more tops here and there this summer, but I'm really happy with everything we were able to find, and at such good prices, too! I also got some cute new undies and bras after Tracy and Bev would basically not let me leave without "pregnancy underwear and bras." They mentioned it so many times that I finally decided to buy them just to get them to leave me alone about it. And to clarify again, as I told them as well several times..."Yes, I appreciate you two mentioning that, and I know I will need new bras and undies. I agree, I just wasn't planning on buying those with my mother-in-law and grandma-in-law!" (Ha! Love you, Tracy and Bev!) Sorry if this is TMI!

And of course we checked out the baby clothing stores. Tracy had a hard time containing herself, but Bev and I kept her in check. :-) It was a good thing we weren't sure of the sex of the baby because I think we all would have wanted to buy more if we knew for sure.

I'm so happy to show you Baby Smyser's first onsies (from Grandma Tracy) and bibs (from Great Grandma Bev)!

I'm *thinking* of going with a yellow/duckie or zoo animal accented theme for the nursery now. Those were the clothes and accessories at the stores that really stuck out the most for me. Anyways, that's not final...just my initial thoughts regarding the theme.

Well, this is the end of my 20th week. I'm halfway done...and I can't believe it!!!

Baby Smyser is a...

We are proud to introduce Baby Smyser's first picture! (Is it just me, or does Baby Smyser have quite the pot belly already?!)

Sorry for the delay about our ultrasound this week! It was such an amazing experience, and it flew by too fast. We were so happy to hear that everything measured well, and that all the organs they were looking for were visible. Baby Smyser's heart rate was around 145.

One of the most memorable moments for Josh and me was when Baby Smyser had the hiccups! We were told that was a good sign of lung development. I never though hiccups would be so cute...until now.

I have carefully studied this foot picture. I think most of you know Josh has the flattest feet in the world. And, my weird foot feature is that my big toe is shorter than my second toe. We've figured no matter what, Baby Smyser will likely have some unique feet! Of course it's still too early to determine specific features like that...so, time will tell!

Here's a picture of the front of Baby Smyser's face. You can see that it's, yes, I said "it's," right hand is up near it's cheek.

So, the the ultrasound technician told us that she never felt she had as clear of a view as she would have liked, or that she's had with other viewings (I guess Baby Smyser listened to it's mom!), but if she had to determine the sex of Baby Smyser from that day's viewing alone, she was going with female. She said while she never saw testicles, they could have been hiding or missed due the angle of Baby Smyser. It was hard for me to tell how confident she was, as I know it's her job to tell us that she can never been 100% accurate. So...while we are leaning towards Baby Smyser being a girl...and Josh personally feels confident we're having a girl...I'm still on the fence.

At this point, we aren't scheduled and won't have another ultrasound unless the need arises. We also haven't decided yet if we'll be doing a 3D ultrasound for sure...so, I guess for now, all I feel comfortable saying is: "We're having a girl! But there is still a slight chance it's a boy!"

Oh, and some favorite quotes said by the wonderful husband:

* "It looks like an alien." (Referring to the face pictures.)

* "It's taking after Daddy already." (Referring to my comment about it's big belly.)

* "It looks like it's laying in a tomb." (Referring to the first picture I posted.)

P.S. Some days...I still can't believe I have a human growing inside of me! Ahhhh!

My First Belly Picture!

For the past few weeks, I didn't think I was noticeably showing. I just thought I looked like I ate one too many banana splits. Ha! Well, this week (week 18), I feel like my belly really "popped" out and Baby Smyser decided to make his/her appearance more known to the world. Josh even commented a couple nights ago out of nowhere, "Wow, your belly is huge!" (Probably the only time in my life this comment wasn't followed with me punching him in the face.) I do feel like it's huge...and I know it's just going to get bigger! It's hard to imagine, but very exciting, too!

Overall, I've been feeling pretty good. However, for the past few days I've been fighting a cold that Josh gave me. I still feel pretty yucky, but I hope to feel better soon! This is the second time I've been sick this winter!

Our first ultrasound is Wednesday, only 4 more days! We are beyond excited. As of now, we are still going to find out if it's a boy or girl. I'd actually really like to wait and be surprised, and I try to convince Josh to be surprised everyday, but so far, I am losing that battle. So, I'm trying to communicate to the baby to keeps it's legs crossed all day Wednesday, so we'll see who he/she listens to.

Well, here's the picture.

On the agenda for next week (besides the ultrasound), is finally removing my belly button ring! I've had it pierced for 10 years and have never changed it from the ring it was pierced with. Now, I can't seem to get it out...so...yeah...

My Husband's So Thoughtful!

While wandering the aisles of Menard's today, my husband picked up a...gadget I would call it... creatively called a "Reach Tool," and excitedly turned to me and declared, "I'm buying this for you since you're pregnant." Here's the rest of our conversation.

Meg: "What? Why? That's a total waste of $5. Put it back."

Josh: "Nope. I'm getting it for you. You're going to have a big belly, and it will be hard to bend over and pick stuff up."

Meg: "What will I be picking up with this??"

Josh: "Like um, laundry. Like a sock or something."

Meg: "You know, I'm not going to like double in size. I'm still going to be able to move around and be somewhat agile (I hope!)."

Josh: "We're getting it. It looks like fun. It's only $5!"

Meg: "Whatever."

I walk away...as I do, he uses "my" new toy to annoyingly grab the hood of my sweatshirt.

While I may have objected initially...I must admit that my new "Reach Tool" came in handy to pull Josh's hood of his sweatshirt later on in the parking lot...and to grab a tasty box of Reece's Pieces that had "accidentally" fell to the floor.

Only 11 more days until the ultrasound! We can't wait!

The Baby Wanted that Shamrock Shake!

This past Saturday was our 12th Anniversary as a couple. We're a dozen years old! 12 years ago on that day, Josh handed me a single red rose at a dance after a high school basketball game and asked me to "go out" with him. The rest is history! Sickening isn't it!?!

We spent our anniversary working TNT style! I went with Josh to get a sample of mortar from a building in Muscatine and we checked out a property in Iowa City. All of this was capped off with a stop at McDonald's for a Shamrock shake...only because Baby Smyser was requesting this special treat of course. ;-) Baby Smyser has great taste!

Our good friend Schaefer came over yesterday. When he called, he asked Josh is I was showing at all yet. I told Josh his response should have been..."Read her blog." Then, I asked Josh if that was rude...and usually, if you have to ask a question like that, you already know the answer. One of my moments I guess...

Anyways, I've decided to amend that FAQ...I do think I am starting to show. And, my friend Michelle also commented...(not in these words exactly...so please excuse this sarcasm).
Q: Can I randomly touch and rub your belly now that your pregnant?
A: PLEASE do not touch my belly without asking. :-) Unless you are Josh's grandma...she's already done it. Luckily, she's an awesome grandma...so, I can't possibly say no to her! I love Bev!

(Also, I realize my responses to questions such as the one above my change as time progresses.)

FAQs

Enjoy some FAQs about me being pregnant. Riveting...I know.

Q: Have you been feeling sick/experiencing "morning sickness?"

A: For the first 10-12 weeks, I had pretty much lost my appetite and felt nauseous all day every day. I only actually got sick maybe 2 times. I've finally felt better the last few weeks, but still have a hard time finding an appetite.

Q: Any cravings?

A: Nothing specific...yet...once in a while I'll crave something specific, like McD's chicken McNuggets for one meal...but no regular or weird cravings yet. I will say that Asian food (like Mongolian Grill and Osaka Hibachi Grill) ALWAYS sounds good to me. Josh says I'm trying to influence the baby to be as Asian as possible. ;-)

Q: Are you showing yet?

A: I don't really think so. (?) Nothing super noticeable... I just feel like I look a little fatter...and as of now, my normal jeans still button. I know that will all change before I know it!

Q: So, how are you feeling?

A: Overall I am feeling pretty good now. I am usually pretty tired every day...but I don't know if it's from the baby or from Josh's snoring!!

Q: Are you going to post any "belly pictures?"

A: Um, I'm undecided right now. I'm a pretty modest person...but we'll see...I'm sure at least one or two will be posted once I'm much further along.

Q: Are you going to find out if it's a boy or girl?

A: Yes! (As long as the little one cooperates.) Our ultrasound is on St. Patrick's Day! I would truly be ok both knowing or being surprised...however, Josh is absolutely dying to find out. He is actually hoping for a girl!

Q: Do you have names picked out?
A: Yes, both for a boy or girl...and we're actually very excited about them. But we're waiting until Baby Smyser is here to announce anything...so, you'll just have to wait!

If you have any other questions...don't hesitate to ask! If I don't want to answer...I won't. :-)