Triplet Pregnancy Update - 35 Weeks!

Today is the first day of my 35th week being pregnant with these three boys!

Not sure how long the post will be as sitting up has become quite uncomfortable, and I haven't mastered typing on my laptop while laying on my side.

I had Josh take my picture a day early (yesterday) since I was actually dressed decently and just had my hair trimmed.

I've finally hit my 'breaking point' in terms of being uncomfortable and feeling so useless around my house and with my family that I feel sorta depressed each day. If I'm being honest, every day gets a bit harder to make it through. I'm pretty tired most of the day. Sleeping is touch and go. I'm tired of my skin breaking out. I'm tired of feeling so scrunched inside. I'm tired of doctors appointments. I'm tired of telling M I can't do something for her because of my belly. I'm tired of being tired. lol.

I do feel lots of movement every day from the babies as you can imagine. It is actually sometimes a bit painful and uncomfortable as they are pretty strong and push on random organs and bones. It's hard to explain...I love feeling them move most of the time...but sometimes I'm ready for them to stop pushing so hard!

It's been quite a humbling experience to have to rely on family and friends to basically function in terms of caring for M as well as simple household chores and tasks. It's been a challenge for me to ask and admit I need help. We are so thankful for family and friends for their support and help thus far. I know I wouldn't have made it this far along without all their love, support, and help.

The boys' nursery is slowing but surely coming together (again only because of family and friends helping). I'm hoping to have it complete by next weekend for sure, and will post pictures as soon as it's ready.

My days are long...but I know each day is worth it as I finally have a birthday for the boys and and end point to being pregnant. I also know that my pregnancy has gone quite well and with no serious complications for being a high risk pregnancy, and I'm so thankful for that.

So, if all goes well. These little boys will be delivered Wednesday afternoon January 22nd!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

We are SUPER, SUPER excited (and, I'm also terrified)!!!!

Triplet Pregnancy Update - 32 Weeks

I can't believe we've made it another two weeks! Yay!!!

Here I am!

Yeah...I think I only have a few tops left that still fit. Even Josh's 2XL Ts are getting too short now!

How am I feeling. Well...honestly...I have my ups and downs.

Mostly I'm doing ok overall. Of course I'm uncomfortable. I just can't hardly do anything...so mentally, I'm suffering the most. It's the worse feeling to have so many things I want to do...but I just can't do it. I know growing my babies is my top priority...but it's still annoying because I'm such a control freak. I'll be laying down resting and just making mental lists of things I wish I was actually doing.

I still can run short errands...but I think that'll be ending soon. Or maybe do a load of laundry or some dishes, but I am now really trying not and push it as I know labor could happen any day. 32 weeks is the average triplet pregnancy...so...YIKES!

I get the most pain in my lower back (from walking). And around my hips, especially while laying down and sleeping. I wake up and have to flip multiple times a night...but overall, I'm sleeping ok I guess. My belly does contract on and off once I'm walking or doing dishes or something...but nothing regular or painful, and it stops as soon as I rest.

I am still finding it hard to eat and rarely have an appetite. But...I'm trying to eat as much as I can each day. I'm still craving fresh deli-meat, and I still can't wait to eat a sandwich from Jimmy John's after I give birth.

I actually feel bad for Josh, too. He says he's ready for the babies to come. I think what he's really ready for is for me to not be pregnant since I'm so moody and uncomfortable. I know it's hard on him in other ways since he gets the brunt of my whining and complaining. Especially in the evenings...from about 4pm on...I'm usually not the happiest person. LOL! It's hard because I don't want to be so unhappy either...but I'm just annoyed. Then...I feel bad for feeling annoyed because I know I shouldn't be annoyed. LOL!

It really is my goal to make it another 2-3 weeks longer if I can, and if the babies are doing ok of course. I want the babies to be as big and healthy as possible. I really want their NICU time to be short.

I've had family and friends over to help clean and organize and I'm SO thankful for their help. It's the weirdest feeling directing them on what to do while I just lay there...and makes me so uncomfortable. I don't know why accepting help is so hard for me to do!

This last weekend we got our furniture moved downstairs. So after Christmas we will finish moving the rest of our stuff downstairs and getting it organized. Then, we will begin the nursery set up and organization!!! It's getting VERY real now as each week passes! We still need to purchase car seats...but I think that's the last of the big purchases we need. Also, Josh even said we should figure out some type of theme and try and decorate the nursery a bit. It's so funny to hear him say that, but I've done NO planning of that sort. Poor triplets!

I head back for another appointment the day after Christmas. So I'll try and update later this week...we should find out how big the boys are, and also hopefully get a tentative birth date for them. Exciting...and scary, too!

Triplet Pregnancy Update - 30 Weeks

I honestly can't believe I made it to 30 weeks! 

And, I'm still moving and somewhat active! My house is a complete wreck, I look and feel pretty tired, and I'm pretty moody (I think I cry or almost cry daily - poor Josh) - but hey...you can't have it all!

Here I am! 

Yeah - I'm ginormous. And, my belly has definitely dropped a bit. No wonder people stare at me! I kinda still shock myself. Bev wanted to know how big around I was. I didn't want to do it at first, but curiosity got to me, and I let Josh measure my 'waist' and I'm about 48" around. Um...yeah...that's 4 feet! BUT...most importantly, the babies are doing well!!! 

I had an ultrasound last Tues. and today. These are quick ones where they do an anatomy check and fluid check and then monitor their movements and breathing (well, they check to make sure they are practicing some breathing at some point within a half hour). They all have been passing with flying colors each week. I have another u/s like this next week. My next growth u/s to find out how big they are will not be for another 2 weeks (at 32 weeks) - sometime around Christmas I'm guessing.

A couple u/s pics from last week.

Baby B at 29 weeks giving us thumbs up.

Baby B at 29 weeks already has visible hair!!! That's what those lines are under the word 'hair.'

The babies are already showing their personalities a little bit. Baby A and C (one of the twins and the fraternal) are both head down. Baby A is on the bottom (poor guy) and C is on my right side. Baby B (the other twin) is on my left and is head up. Baby B is the most active and the most 'photogenic.' We always seem to get the 'best' pictures of him. Baby C is definitely the least active. We had to wait for some time today for him to decide to move and show us that he's practicing his breathing. And, I think Baby A will be the most easy going - as we witnessed him getting kicked in the head today by Baby B. And, he's constantly having his brothers basically laying on him a lot. 

Here's some pictures from today's u/s.

30 weeks - A's face.

30 weeks B's - profile. She told me he's sticking out his tongue.

30 weeks - C's little baby rolls. I think it's just skin - I don't think they are that chubby yet...but I could be wrong.

So, how am I doing? Overall, I think pretty good all things considered. Of course I'm uncomfortable and I can't stand, walk, or sit for long. I've seemed to have lost my appetite, and have to force and remind myself to eat - unless is Mexican from Las Lomas (a restaurant in Muscatine) - I feel like I could eat that at any time. I'm still drinking just one Ensure drink a day. And, I'm drinking as much water as I can.

I'm feeling a bit more stressed as I know the babies will be here anytime in the next 2-6 weeks. We have a lot to do...but I know it will get done. Of course normal holiday stress and preparation is on my mind. And, I've also been thinking more about Madison and how her little life is going to change so drastically soon - a post on that will probably come soon.

Well...that's it for now. I'm going to try and sneak in a quick cat nap before M wakes from her nap!

28 Weeks - Ultrasound Update

We had our growth ultrasound today. And, the numbers are in!

Baby A - 2 lbs. 14 oz. (60th %)
Baby B - 3 lbs. 1 oz. (76th %)
(the twins)
Baby C - 2 lbs. 15 oz. (69th %)

Apparently, my body is pretty good at growing 'big' babies! Josh and I were both surprised at their approximate weights. Personally...I was just hoping they were all around 2.5 lbs., but they all surpassed my goal! It's hard to imagine about 9 lbs. of baby in there (M was almost 9 lbs. at birth)!

They also watched each baby for the number of movements, and to be sure they were practicing breathing, and all three did well. Their fluids were all fine. Their heart beats were all fine. My blood pressure and everything else is looking good. I've gained about 28 lbs. The doctors were very happy with our progress thus far. These kind of appointments are the best as my spirits are now lifted, and I'm definitely feeling happier and more at ease with their development.

Here are a few pictures...they aren't the best because it's getting crowded in there. So, it's more challenging to get 'good' pictures.

Baby A's profile.

Baby B's face.

Baby C's face.

I will now go every week for an ultrasound and appointment.

We also toured the NICU today, and spoke with some of the NICU staff to start getting an understanding of what to expect and how things will go during and after delivery. It was great talking to them, but a little overwhelming, too, with all the information.

Just a couple of the things they shared with us that stuck with me most so far is that there will probably be about 12 staff members in the room - 3 for each baby, and 3 for me! The doctor also told me not to be alarmed if I don't hear crying from them when they are born.

We learned about the benefits of the steroid shots I will probably get closer to delivery to help their lungs develop and help with a couple other things. And that they will likely have to have help breathing and eating for a while.

We also spoke about my intentions to breastfeed, and they are very supportive of me pumping/nursing as their development allows. So, that was nice to hear.

From what we understand, the 'magic' number of weeks that I'd ideally like to make it to is 34 weeks - January 5th. Seems like a LONG time to still be pregnant...but I guess I should focus on days...since each day is an accomplishment at this point.

Also, at this point, I also want family and friends to know that while we SO appreciate all the love and support we are getting, and will get once the babies are born. Please be patient and understanding about visiting them in the NICU (and once they are home). There are strict rules about visiting the NICU of course to keep not only OUR babies, but all the other babies healthy, too. You all know me...I'm sure I'll post plenty of pictures on FB and the blog to keep y'all updated!

For those of you who think I was kind of a germ-a-phobe before...I have a feeling these preemies are going to bring it out like NO other! I'm already looking for the signs to put on their car seats that tell people not to touch them and remind people to wash their hands. Not only do I not want them sick of course...but if one does get sick, I have to worry about 2 more (and M) also getting sick! Eeeee!!!

Ok. Nap time for this Mama before M wakes.
Happy Thanksgiving week everyone!

Triplet Pregnancy Update - 28 Weeks

I can't believe I made it to 28 weeks already!

Here I am...large and in charge and ready for week 28!

It's been a while...so this will probably be a longer update. Week 25 was ok, EXCEPT I had a terrible cold and a cough that brought me to tears a couple days. Who knew coughing would be so painful for a pregnant woman. But...we survived. Week 26 was also pretty good overall.

This last week - #27 - has been the roughest thus far. I think carrying these babies is finally starting to wear on my body (and my mind). 

Physically - I'm experiencing more lower back pain when I'm up and moving. Especially by the evening. I'm not able to lift or carry hardly anything without feeling it. I just kind of 'hit a wall' mid afternoon, and around 8pm and I'm ready to just lay down. I'm not sleeping as well because I have to flip from side to side 2-3 times a night to stay comfortable. I think I've gained around 25-30 lbs. I don't weigh myself at home...so I'll know for sure on Tuesday.

My belly is definitely feeling stretched and tightens a lot. The babies do their fair share of moving and pushing around in there. I think they are most active (or I just notice it the most) from about 8-10 pm. I usually enjoy the feeling...but lately their movements also make me feel a bit uncomfortable almost. Who knows what other organs they are poking and pushing on in there! LOL! Josh is NOT a fan of feeling them kick hard or feeling body parts push out.

Mentally - I have to admit I cried a couple times this week when feeling sorry for myself for feeling lousy and feeling like I'm not accomplishing anything. Also, just feeling 'not myself' is sometimes sad. It's been kinda hard this holiday season only because I still want to take M to Festival of Trees, and we have to cut our tree and decorate the house. I'm determined to do both of those things this week. It's also been GOOD to be pregnant because for ONCE in my life I'm not procrastinating on shopping for gifts or our holiday cards!

I am getting more used to stares and questions when we are out and about. But, sometimes I still get self-conscience with all the stares I get from the public. I know my baby belly must look pretty shocking to most people...they are probably just worried I'm going to go into labor! But most of you know me, and know that I'm not one to necessarily like all the attention, and I still get uncomfortable. Oh well. I better get used to it!

It's hard to believe that I'm hoping to stay pregnant for at least 4 more weeks. Sometimes I feel like I can definitely do that...and sometimes...that feels like a LONG time. But...I'm pretty determined to NOT have them born before Christmas. So, we'll see!  Don't worry too much about me though. I'm doing my best to do as much as I still can WITHOUT overdoing it. I know it's important to take care of myself for my whole family.

I am SO happy to have made it to 28 weeks. It was my main goal from the beginning. My next goal is to make it to 30 weeks.

(Jengo photo-bombed my picture of myself from today!)

Josh says I move like a 90 year old man. It's true. But hey...at least I'm still moving! :) Josh has been very supportive. He's always worried about me resting, eating, and drinking enough water. He is finishing the floor in the downstairs basement this week, and once we get our bedroom moved down there I'll be ready to start cleaning and organizing the master bedroom for the triplets. Josh works so hard for our family and me, and I'm so incredibly thankful for him.

Starting in December I think I'll be needing more help around the house with minor cleaning and organizing. We have a lot to de-clutter and get organized before the boys arrive I've just been waiting for us to get moved and settled. So, if you are free for a morning or afternoon randomly in December...let me know! Or, if I need something, be ready for a FB request or text! :)

Madison talks about the babies and my belly a lot. The other night we were laying in her bed and she told me she had a baby in her belly...and she put her hand on her belly and told me she could feel him move. One day M also asked me where my lap went since she can't really sit on my lap anymore. LOL! I love her so much, and it's been hard on me not picking her up and cuddling her as much But, she is SO sweet and tells me a lot that she can't wait to help feed her brothers and give them baths.

I *THINK* we have finally agreed on their names. I'm still mulling over one of them...but...for now...I think we are set. This is kinda a teaser of an update since we WILL NOT be sharing until they are born! Sorry!

We go on Tuesday for our growth ultrasound, appointment with my doctors, and our NICU tour and consult. Hopefully they are all growing well and are healthy! I'll be back on Tuesday to post how everything goes.

P.S. We figured out that my steering wheel moves back. So...I've still got some wiggle room and am able t drive! Wohoo!!!

Triplet Pregnancy Update: 25 Weeks

25 weeks already! WOW!

Last week I had a growth ultrasound.

Baby A was 1 pound 7 oz.
Baby B was 1 pound 11 oz.
Baby C was 1 pound 12 oz.

Even thought Baby A (one of the twins) was the smallest...he is still in the 44th percentile, and so they are all doing great and growing wonderfully. My next growth u/s will be in 4 weeks (the week of Thanksgiving).

The best news of all is that Baby A and B's fluid levels evened out! So, from what I understand, the risk of them developing TTTS from here on out is pretty UNLIKELY. I was SO happy, and with that news, and now surpassing 24 weeks, I finally felt I could breath a little and know that the babies are doing well. My doctor said I was very healthy and that whatever I've been doing I should just keep doing. I had my flu shot and Tdap vaccination, and took the 1 hr. glucose test. I'm off this week with no appointments...but will be back to weekly appointments starting next week with the doctors and ultrasounds every two weeks now.

This picture made me smile because the photographer was obviously doing something to make me laugh. Oh, Josh...


Anyways, overall I am feeling pretty good I think. My lower back is starting to ache a bit more. And, sitting or laying in one position for too long makes me uncomfortable. But, other than that. I'm feeling ok. I'm still sleeping pretty good at night, but these last two weeks I've been feeling more tired during the day and may have to go back to cat-napping when M naps. :)

Since my last update I've had 2 baby showers and we have been SPOILED beyond my imagination with diapers, clothes, and other baby necessities. :) We are so appreciative of our family and friends and their generosity! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

I really can't go anywhere in public without questions about my due date. I am wondering what will be said in the coming weeks as my belly continues to grow. I sometimes have to prepare myself for comments and questions before going out...sometimes it doesn't bother me, and sometimes I just want to make my purchase and be on my way. I guess I better try and get used to the attention now, and after their born!

My belly is getting awfully close to the steering wheel...*sigh*

My next mini-goal is to make it to 28 weeks!

Triplet Pregnancy Update: 23 Weeks

Here I am at the start of 23 weeks!!!

I think this might be the last of my outside pictures. It was chilly out there today!

The size of my baby belly still shocks me when I catch my reflection at home or when we're out. I'm sure it's quite startling to others sometimes, too! I always think it kinda looks fake because it's so round and big!

Overall, I am feeling pretty good - all things considered. Last Tuesday I met with another one of the doctors from the High Risk OB Team at the UofI and continue to feel SO much more comfortable and confident with my care and for the babies' care from here on out.

I am of course feeling uncomfortable at times. And...I'm definitely feeling my energy levels dropping...but that's expected. I think I'm moving slower in general with everything I do! My lower back will ache a bit if I'm standing or sitting for too long.

I'm still sleeping pretty comfortably. I'm usually just up once to use the bathroom.

No real food cravings...except for things I can't have (like a deli turkey sub from Jimmy John's). I am still guilty of sneaking in a fountain Coke once or twice a week.

My doctors do not recommend any type of bed rest at this point. They tell me to do what I feel I can do and to rest when I need to rest. Ok. I'll take that for now. :)

The babies continue to stay stable. So, that makes me happy and is all I can hope for. This coming Thursday we go for a the echo-ultrasound to check the twins' hearts. The concern right now is with Baby B (the one with the extra fluid) because of the extra fluid, his little heart may be working a little too hard. So...we shall see. I will also have a regular ultrasound to check fluids. I'm not sure if they will check the growth of the babies next Thursday or not. If not Thursday, then the next one for sure I was told. I'll be sure to post once I get updates of the babies sizes. I'm curious to know how much they've been growing since week 20!

I do feel movement every day. Just this last week I noticed that sometimes certain movements can be seen from the outside, too. So weird!

I finally got around to registering this weekend (and today). I registered at Babies R Us and Target. It was SO different registering for this pregnancy than for M. All I can think about is diapers! LOL. It's also a different, but FUN, experience shopping for boys stuff. It's weird because my eyes always want to wander to the girls stuff first.

Anyways...here's a fun picture of my baby bump with M compared to me now!
I can't BELIEVE I'm the same size NOW as I was with M at 31 weeks!
That kinda scares me. LOL!

(I find it funny my hair is the same length and I'm wearing purple in both pictures.)

Until next time!

21 Week Ultrasound Photos & Update

Today I returned for an ultrasound to check on the babies.

The twin's levels were consistent with last week...so that was good news! No change.

Again, all the organs for now appear to be developing normally. They all had good heart rates. They were super active. It was amazing and funny to watch them kicking each other and kind of sitting on each other.

Baby A is the lowest and on my right, Baby B is mid level and on my left, and Baby C is also on the right, kinda above Baby A.

I will have a special ultrasound of the twins' hearts in two weeks because of the uneven fluid distribution and because of the sharing.

Anyways, short and sweet update post. My doctors said no news and 'boring' results are a good thing in multiples. I just hope for continued healthy development of the babies and that the fluid levels stay consistent if not improve.

Oh, and I finally got around to scanning some ultrasound pictures to share.

Baby C - legs in the air. Oh, and that's not an outie belly button...that's him showing off his man-parts.

Baby A's Profile.

Kind of a creepy picture of Baby B's face and hand/fingers.

Baby B's spine.

Have a good weekend, everyone! We are headed to Cedar Falls on Saturday to celebrate UNI's Homecoming, and I'm super excited to see some of our friends we met in college.

I just realized none of my UNI clothing will fit me...may have to steal a shirt from Josh I guess!

The Anticipated Gender Reveal of the Smyser Triplets!

Ok. Ok. Ok. I know I've been holding off FOR forever with this information. So, happy scrolling!!!

Thank you SO much to my friend and photographer, Kelli - Bearfoot Photography, for the less than 24 hr. turn-around on getting these photos to us! :) I just wanted to share a few more of the shots Kelli got.

My personal favorite of the afternoon!

P.S. We will NOT be sharing names until they are born. We are still in process anyways. Sorry! :)

First Level 2 Ultrasound Update

Last Thursday we headed to IA City for our first Level 2 Ultrasound and to meet with the specialists.

Here is my current vitamin regimen.

Prenatals, plus extra folic acid, calcium, and iron.

So, as of Thursday, I'm happy to report that all three babies are growing at an appropriate weight and all organs are also developing with no known issues at this time.

Baby A was 11 oz.
Baby B was 13 oz.
(The twins)
Baby C was 14 oz.

However, there is concern with the twins that share a placenta. Because of the growth gap (and differing fluid levels) between them at this time, I will be monitored with weekly ultrasounds. The twins are at risk of developing Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). From what I understand at this time (talking to the doctors about all this is kinda fuzzy for me), the placenta is only made to nourish one baby, and sometimes with twins that have to share, one baby gets too much, and the other, not enough. :( Fluid levels can change weekly and drastically...so a lot of monitoring is all we can do. There is nothing I did, or nothing I really can do to help the babies share the nutrients equally. At this time, if the babies fluid levels stay the same as they are now (or improve), I can still carry them for 32+ weeks...but again...it's not in my control.

So, all we can do it wait and see and hope that Baby B learns to SHARE a little bit better!

Surprisingly, I have NOT googled TTTS. Can you believe it?! I am purposefully staying away from websites and stories (both good and not to good at this time). The possibility of them developing TTTS is of course weighing heavily on our hearts and minds. I'm doing my best to stay positive. But...I'm also a realist...and know that there is a possibility of some tough decisions and situations in our future.

I'm anxiously awaiting my next ultrasound next Thursday with hopes of good news.

From now on, we are switching all my care to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. I felt very comfortable with the doctors and nurses there, and I feel that the babies and I will get the best care with them.

And...for all you (im)patiently waiting for the gender announcement...we get our pictures taken tomorrow (as long as it doesn't rain) and we will announce soon after! I know we've taken forever to announce. Sorry! But...I will give ONE clue. They are ALL the same! So...any guesses?!

Triplet Pregnancy Update: 20 Weeks

20 weeks already! I can't believe it!

Here I am! (Is this blurry...or is it just me?!)

I've already been asked a few times if, "I'm due any day now!?" Um. NOPE!

I should also mention our ultrasound has been rescheduled from tomorrow to Thursday of this week. And...we're getting family photos and gender reveal photos taken on Sunday...SO...look for the gender announcement sometime next week!

We asked Madison what we should name the babies. 

Her choices: FiFi, Doh-Doh, and Susie. 

Ummmm....

I'm definitely feeling flutters from the babies daily. Not a ton of movement yet...but definitely flutters on a daily basis. :) Flutters...and pressure...and stretching.

I guess I don't have too much else to report right now. Physically, I'm doing pretty good I think. I just can't sit or walk for too long without feeling a bit uncomfortable. But after a short rest laying down I can get back to whatever I was doing. I'm sleeping ok. I'm never really starving...but am still loving Mexican food, and I want to eat steak at any chance I get. I started drinking Ensure drinks a few times a week for now for the extra protein.

Of course I can feel that I'm not able to lift things as well...and in general...my belly gets in the way a bit more. But...that's expected I guess. 

I'm still getting out and doing as much as I can and feel comfortable with. I want to enjoy my life and routine and independence while I can for the next couple months! October is a busy month for us with a lot of fun weekend plans so I'm looking forward to it and hoping my body continues to stay strong carrying these babies.

As I said, physically, I'm doing ok. Mentally...that's a whole different story. LOL! Thank you, hormones. I still feel irritable a lot, and feel myself losing my patience with people maybe a bit sooner than I normally would. So, can I apologize now in advance to you all?!

Also, I'm actually getting pretty anxious about losing aspects of my independence with the possibility of bed rest down the road. And, once the babies arrive I know I'll need help and will be surrounded by people. Although it will be people I love...for a semi-introvert like me...losing my alone time is a bit of a daunting feeling. I know I will adjust...but for now...I'm just trying to prepare myself mentally....and being a bit of a hermit sometimes.

Also, I know I haven't blogged about it recently, but I do feel like I'm still working through my miscarriage experience from this Spring. Of course I'm anxious about a lot of things in general since multiples are high risk. But, I still tend to hold my breath almost every time I use the restroom because I still get a tinge of fear that I'm going to discover I'm bleeding. I've also had a couple bad dreams where something has gone wrong and one or more of the babies have died. Also, since I've been visiting the OB more, every trip there I can't help but to remember my last visits there before the triplets. *sigh* It's crazy...and I know logically it's all in my head...but...well...it is what it is. Thanks for listening, readers. It's so much easier to write than to speak sometimes.

Anyways, I hope to post again after Thursday to let everyone know how the ultrasound went and possibly post ultrasound pictures, too. 

I really appreciate all of you (our family and friends) checking in on me and offering to help. I promise...if (and when) I ever need anything I will let you know! :)

Triplet Pregnancy Update: 17.5 Weeks

So I finally got around to getting (Josh to humor me and take) another baby bump picture!

I'm almost 18 weeks. I realized this week that I'm halfway to my goal of carrying them for 34 weeks! Wohoo! (And...that's also scary that I'm half way there already!!! Seriously.)

I'm definitely carrying these babies so much higher than with Madison. But...again...that's expected (and, really...why I am even trying to compare this pregnancy to Madison! LOL!)

No real cravings recently...except for Mexican food (and fountain Coke). I also told Josh I really needed eat a steak at some point this weekend. :) I'm also still enjoying orange juice with ice.

My belly button has been sticking out for a couple weeks now...but Madison thinks it's hilarious. Me...not so much.

I *think* I've felt some minor fluttering movement from the babies...but I'm not 100% sure it's from the babies.

I go back next week for my 18 week appointment. I'm not scheduled for an ultrasound - so you all have to wait for another 2 weeks to hear the genders! Sorry!!! We just want to be 100% sure before we share!

Ok...feel free to stop reading...the rest of the entry is me kinda venting about things not in my control anyways. :) 

**********************************

This has been a semi-stressful week for me. I'm feeling pretty good overall. But, the official worrying about, oh, EVERYTHING has really begun. 

To start with, I learned that there was a confirmed case of Fifths Disease in Madison's class last week. This is really no big deal for most children and adults because it's kind of like a viral cold that is followed by a harmless rash...BUT, it is one virus that CAN be passed from a pregnant mother to her babies. Madison came down with a fever on Tuesday. So...I called my OB immediately on Wednesday. M's fever was over by Thursday morning (no rash...yet) and now she just has a slight tiny cough. Now, it's very likely I had this virus as a child and am already immune (best case scenario), but, to be safe, I had to have my blood drawn for testing. The test can tell me if I'm already immune or if I have Fifths Disease or if I don't. Then, I have to go back in a month for ANOTHER blood test no matter what the results just to be sure. Ugh. I haven't heard back from the lab yet...so I have to wait all weekend and was told I might not hear back until Tuesday. Oh well. Either way...there is really nothing I can do about it. So, I'm just crossing my fingers I'm already immune. (And trying not to worry all weekend!)

I'm also spending too much time on Google (and probably should be spending more time blogging - haha!) and getting worried that I'm not eating enough, not drinking enough water, not resting enough... And of course I'm worried about the possibility and severity of bed-rest I may have to endure and how that will effect Madison. Of course I'm also worried about what it will mean to have to care for preemie babies...etc. etc. etc. Whew. I know it's normal to have some anxieties...and I also know so much is out of my control...so I really am trying my best to relax. It has nothing to do with not feeling support from family and friends...just my own thoughts and fears as a Mother.

I miss my Mom. A lot. I mean, I always miss my Mom of course, but when I'm going through these big life events there's always a tiny bit of emptiness in my heart. I know it will always be there. It's just more noticeable during certain chapters of my life. 

I'm also not 100% satisfied with the current OB doctors I'm with. It's a long story. But sooner rather than later Josh and I need to make a decision to switch OBs and/or find a specialist in IA City. I go for my Level 2 Ultrasound Oct. 1 at 20 weeks and we will talk more with the doctors there once we know the results of the ultrasound (another thing I'm already worrying about). *sigh*

Ok. Whine fest 2013 is over (for now). I got it all out and now I need to get over it. I need to...I will think positive and just enjoy my beautiful family, wonderful friends, and the life I'm living.

I'm gonna post this (sorry if there's typos) and work on some more blog posts! *gasp* I am also going to try to get back to my Foto Friday posts starting next week! Wohoo!

Triplet Pregnancy Update: 15 Weeks

I figured it was time for my first 'baby bump' picture of the triplets. I've been showing for a few weeks now...but just hadn't gotten around to getting a picture. The picture was from last Wednesday.

So...here I am!

Not the best picture...but humor me and tell me I don't look too gigantic. :)

The growth of my belly is certainly different than Madison for obvious reasons. Here's a link of my first belly picture with M. I was 18 weeks a definitely smaller than I am now.

After the first trimester I finally started feeling better overall with a much better appetite. I'm still pretty exhausted most of the day, and simple tasks like grocery shopping and unloading groceries seems to wipe me out now. But...overall, I'm feeling ok considering my body is busy sustaining 3 other human lives. (How crazy is that!?)

My diet/cravings has changed a bit...during the first trimester I survived on cereal, milk, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, lemonade and Eggos. Recently I've been enjoying cottage cheese with peaches, water, orange juice, and Mexican and Chinese food.

Things that I can't really seem to eat (but I normally would) is ground beef (like cheese burgers) or pizza. Yuck! I mean, I can still eat it...they just don't taste as good.

I also feel SO much more irritable this pregnancy. (Poor Josh!)  Seriously...once 3pm rolls around it seems as if my patience is gone. It's kinda annoying...for those around me I'm sure...and even for myself! The other night I was kinda hungry...but I couldn't decide what I wanted to eat. Then, while trying to decide as I was laying on the couch, I ultimately decided I was too tired to actually eat anything anyways. LOL! Josh was laughing at me...it was pretty funny (in hindsight).

I haven't felt any movement from the babies. But, I can sometimes tell if they've shifted from the top/side of my belly to another area.

We were told the genders a couple weeks ago...and we will share...but I'm waiting for one more ultrasound to confirm since it's still early. So...I'll just leave you with that teaser.

I go in later this week for my 16 week check-up. I can't believe it's been 16 weeks already!!!

That's it for now...until next time!

The Announcement

And this is why I haven't blogged in 2 months:

Since discovering I'm pregnant, every second not spent caring for M, or completing minimal house work/errands and TNT office work is now spent sleeping/resting or eating. LOL! I go to bed at 9 or 10pm and drag myself out of bed at 8:30am.

Here's Our Story So Far:
Barely pregnant at 5.5 weeks we went in for an ultrasound due to some light spotting.
Ultrasound Tech: "Are you on fertility drugs?"
Me: No.
Ultrasound Tech: "Oh. Well...I want to let you know that I definitely see fraternal twins."
Me and Josh: **Silence**

After the ultrasound here's what happened:
Midwife: "Did the ultrasound tech. talk to you much about the pictures?"
Me: "Um yeah...she showed us the two sacs and the two yolks. She said she saw everything she'd expect to see at this stage. (Dang..I thought to myself...I'm getting quizzed about it?!!!!)
Midwife: Ok. Well...I want to tell you that you may actually be carrying triplets. There could be a second yolk in one of the sacs. You'd have identical twins and a fraternal triplet. it's still early. But, I'm fairly confident it's triplets.
Me: (In my head. WTF?!?! WTF?! - sorry...but that's the truth.)
Midwife: We'll have you back in a week and a half for another ultrasound.

I remember that Josh laughed and thought it was kinda funny. JERK. Of course he thinks it's funny...it's not his body with all this responsibility!

We left the office feeling happy, confused, and scared (I was anyways!)

All kidding aside. Of course we are thrilled with these tiny miracles. Thrilled (and TERRIFIED)!

I didn't really sleep at all until our next ultrasound. My mind was always racing with the thought of twins or triplets.

At 7 weeks our ultrasound confirmed triplets and we saw our three tiny miracles with heartbeats.

At 8 weeks the babies (I can't believe that's plural) were still growing on track with strong heartbeats.

At 10 weeks another ultrasound still showedthree little babies and three little heartbeats.

I go for my 12 week appointment this week.

I think it took a good month for me to come out of my denial and accept the fact that I was going to be a mother of 4. FOUR. F-O-U-R children. Whew! It's still hard for me to even type that. LOL!

Some quick FAQs:
Q: How are you feeling?
A: Ok. Weeks 6-8 were terrible. Things got a bit better after 8 weeks, but I still have bad days here and there. I'm usually tired. I find myself eating every couple hours...but it's been hard since nothing usually sounds good or tastes good once I start eating. I don't even have an appetite for ice cream...and that seriously makes me sad. LOL! All in all, I'm surviving though!

Q: Was it natural? Do multiples run in the family?
A: Our triplets were completely spontaneous and natural. I did ovulate two eggs that were both fertilized and one split into twins. They told me that runs on the mother's side...and since I'm adopted I have no clue if there are multiples on my biological side or not.

Q: Due date?
A: Official due date is Feb. 17th, but they'll likely arrive end of December/early January.

Q: Genders?
A: We'll find out as soon as we can!

Q: What does M think?
A: She knows Mama has 3 babies in her belly and that makes her a big sister. She says she will feed them, but won't change their diapers. She did ask me their names the other day, and I told her they didn't have names yet, and she looked at me like I was ridiculous! :)

Q: Are you showing?
A: Yes. It's crazy. I'll post a picture soon.

I'm really going to try and blog more. I promise! I need it to get all my crazy thoughts and emotions out...but to also document this next crazy-exciting journey in our life. But for now...I'm exhausted. And hungry. Time for a snack and a nap before M wakes up! (Sorry if there's a ton of typos.)

And, a first of many THANK YOUs to all our awesome friends and family for their kind words and support for us and the babies!