If I could recommend one product to all new parents...

It would definitely be a glider. Here's why...Deegan is a fussy little baby! Poor thing is REALLY gassy and cries alot after feedings because he's uncomfortable. What soothes him? THE GLIDER! I swear, I rock him for 5 minutes and he's out! Sometimes, I've tried rocking him on the couch, with the motion of my body...yeah right! He's too smart for that...definitely knows that it's not the glider!! I also think the glider is the reason why he sleeps so well at night time. He wakes up during the night...eats...gets changed...and goes right back to sleep! I know all babies are different...but I would recommend a glider for everyone! They can be on the pricey side...we bought ours for $130 on Walmart.com, which is fairly cheap compared to others. It's well well worth...trust me!!!

xoxo Dez

DEEGAN IS HERE! (Part 2- Postpartum)

Delivering Deegan was the best experience in my life. I instantly fell in love with those chubby cheeks and that blonde hair! After the delivery, they delivered the placenta which wasn't too bad...2 pushes and it was out...my mind was on my new son, so I didn't pay attention at all. But I did overhear the nurses rambling about how big my placenta was...someone joked that it was 8lbs, not sure if they actually weigh it or not? LOL. After that I suffered from discomfort while my main nurse pushed on my stomach to see how much I was bleeding, by the way...I could feel the blood coming out and it was sooooo uncomfortable. But once again, my mind was on Deegan! So every 15 minutes my nurse had to check for bleeding, by pushing on my stomach...REALLY hard. She had told me that she didn't like what she was seeing and that I might need a possible blood transfusion...that was scary! So every 15 minutes she was checking...until 2 hours had passed and we ended up moving to our post-delivery room, where the new nurses still checked on me every 15 minutes...it eventually got better and I stopped bleeding as much!

Before we transferred, Darrell had gotten my yummy mcdonald's for dinner *omg, I was sooooooo hungry!!!!*...luckily, they had a mcdonald's at the hospital because their cafeteria food was gnarly! About 20 minutes after delivering, I began breastfeeding right away with the help of our main nurse, Miss Courtney. Deegan latched on right away and had no problems...it's amazing how naturally it comes!

We got to our new room and I felt relieved to get a little more rest than I had in the delivery room. The nurse had to help me use the restroom which was a pain in the booty omg! I could barely walk and I couldn't just wipe, I had to blot myself dry which was horrible. It took me about 30 minutes just to go to the restroom and clean up. By the way, if you're a very shy person...get over it! Because the nurses will see and have no choice but to help with everything. I even had a male nurse check my bleeding...talk about embarrassing! I'm sure I could've requested a female nurse...but Darrell was there with me so I wasn't too worried.

The Navy Hospital doesn't have a "nursery", so Deegan roomed-in with us the whole time, which I would've preferred anyway. I truly believe that it helps you prepare to be at home with him. The first night...no rest lol. The nurses were in and out checking on us and I was too nervous about watching Deegan to make sure he was breathing and everything. I continued breastfeeding, but it became more painful eachtime. I tried manually expressing my milk, but there was no colostrum coming out! I requested to see a lactation nurse...

The next morning the lactation consultant came in and checked me out. Turns out, I had blisters on my nipples...OUCH!! And she discovered that Deegan was sucking wrong, but latching right. She recommended that we use a nipple shield and since I wasn't getting much colostrum, to feed him formula using a tube and syringe and placing it next to my nipple shield. So in the end, he was getting satisfied while my body was still getting the "signal" to make more milk. Let me tell you...we ended up staying an extra night because my nurse was concerned about his feeding habits, because he did lose some weight. This breastfeeding routine was highly difficult, because I needed Darrell's help with the syringe...so every 2 hours we were both awake and feeding. This worked during our stay, but ended up being a disaster and I'll explain why in a different blog!

The hospital stay was quite annoying...the food was nasty, the bed wasn't that comfy...I needed exercise, and we were dealing with a newborn for the first time. Darrell had to go run errands a few times throughout the day which left me alone with our angel...which was scary at first but helped prepare me for when Darrell goes back to work. Deegan got circumsized on Day #2...POOR GUY :( The nurse was like "did you hear him screaming?"...thank God that I didn't!! Once again...POOR GUY!! So glad it didn't take that long to heal!

Day #3 rolls around and my nipples were still sore, even from using the nipple shield lol. But Deegan seemed more satisfied with the formula, so I was happy. The lactation nurse checked on us again...and then the pediatrician went over some things with me. He had broken blood vessels in his eyes from the stress of his birth (big baby coming out of a small space....hello!! lol glad that was the only thing that happened to the poor little man!), and she assured me it would clear up soon! Also, he had a little bruising on his face, which could've developed into jaundice...so she advised me to see the dr. the next day and to put Deegan in front of the window for a few minutes a day. Other than that, my little guy was in good shape! She also prescribed him his amoxicillin for his kidneys, which is what the nephrologist had wanted before his kidney ultrasound! So after long talks, we were discharged! YAY!

Leaving the hospital was VERY scary. Knowing that we're so far from family and friends...we had eachother and a newborn! Scary, but we did great. Deegan actually slept very good for his first night...and we actually got more rest than expected as well!! :)

xoxo Dez

DEEGAN IS HERE! (Part 1- labor and delivery)

So it finally happened! And here's the story...

On Sunday, Sept 26th, Darrell and I took a trip to the mall and had a pretty chill day. I felt great...did not think I would be going into labor that night! Sure enough, I woke up around midnight to do my routine bathroom trip and felt funny. I was getting sharp cramps...so I went back to sleep thinking they would go away. Went to the bathroom twice more, and each trip I had more cramping. The last time was around 3:30am and I timed the contractions...4-5 minutes apart! I jumped in the shower real quick to freshen up because I knew what was happening. My contractions got much stronger and faster within minutes! At about 4:30am, I woke Darrell up and called the hospital. They told me to come right in, of course. My contractions were 3 minutes apart at that point and they were highly uncomfortable. The pain was tolerable...just uncomfy!! We get to the hospital at 5:30am and get seen by a midwife who checked me to make sure I was in true labor...I was 5cm!! So she goes "well, we're having a baby today!!". HOW EXCITING!! I was excited...yet READY for it to be over because of the contractions.

They put me in a labor and delivery room and put monitors on my tummy to monitor Deeg's heart rate. Then they ran an IV through my hand (the nurse poked me twice...grrrr!!) because I was GBS+, so I needed penicillin before my labor. The nurse drew some blood for tests and told us I could get the epidural after my test results were done. It seemed like FOREVER. She was taking her sweet time, my contractions were getting worse...it was just awful! Well guess what...SHIFT CHANGE! About an hour later...still waiting for results and pain meds...I get a new nurse who came in my room with phetenol! YES!!!! It made me feel like I had a few glasses of wine lol. Then about an hour later, I was dilated to 6cm and finally ready for my epidural! I was sooooooooooo nervous...but I didn't even care because the pain was horrible. The anesthesiologist came in and gave me a shot of lidocaine in my back to numb the area. Felt like a small pinch...and then a few minutes later, in went the epidural. Let me say...it didn't hurt AT ALL!! All I felt was pressure...and my back was hurting in the position they had me in because honestly, the guy took his time and it took a while...but it was worth it for the most part! I started getting numb in about 15minutes. PROBLEM: My right side was completely numb, but I could feel everything from my left thigh and above. Nice! It took away the pain of the contractions for the most part though. It wasn't too bad...and they gave me a dosage control that you can press every 15 minutes if the pain is too intense. Well...I pressed it a few times but wanted to save most of it for last...MISTAKE! I should've just kept pressing it because the epidural ended up wearing off towards the end. The pain was SO HORRIBLE..plus I hadn't eaten anything since 7pm Sunday night...by this time it was 3pm Monday! I was so hungry!! After the epidural, the nurses came in and put in my urine catheter...felt pressure but that was it! It was just uncomfy for the most part because I could feel it move a little when I moved my legs or when Deegan moved around. My midwife came in and checked me, I was dilated at 7cm and she broke my water. Unfortunately, there was a little bit of meconium (baby's first poop inside), which meant they would need to haul baby away fast to clear his respiratory tract to prevent him from breathing it in and getting an infection! That was scary! As for the pain, I only felt it on my left side...and it was a constant pain! It was a horrible stomach ache, like I had to take a big poop or something. It was unbearable. I was screaming, crying...poor Darrell had to see me like that lol! The anesthesiologosts came in and changed out my epidural...made it more "dense", which sadly worked for about 20minutes and then I felt the pain again. I kept telling my nurse that I had to poop...and she was like "no, that's just labor...you're ready!!". After going through a few nurses, and being put on the back burner because I wasn't fully ready (there was a small part of my cervix still in the way)...my nurse finally comes in to check at 4pm and she goes "you're ready!! and you're going to start pushing!!". I was like "omg...I will start pushing but I hope I don't poop" LOL (luckily, I didn't...)

So I started pushing with every contraction...she had me hold my own legs back and put my chin to my chest each time which killed me. My neck was on fire and I couldn't feel my legs so it was really hard to pull my legs back lol. At about 4:20pm, she brought in the midwife and the team because I was so close. The pain was awful...I can't even describe. I pushed extra hard because I just wanted him out and to be done! I remember after each pushing session, snibbling and saying "I can't do this" and "it hurts so bad" with whimpers in my voice...but the team of coaches pushed me! It was great having them there and Darrell was great too...helping me lift my neck each push! I literally felt Deegan down low...and he was on my left side which is why it was hurting so bad. The pressure was crazy...I felt like a balloon about to POP! At 4:31pm...my midwife says, "ok Destinee, if he doesn't come out this next time, I have no choice but to give you an episiotomy because he's so close". Episiotomy?? NOT ME!!! I pushed so HARD like I never have before....and out he popped at 4:33pm, weighing 10lbs 5oz and 21" long! He was beautiful...he came out screaming! They hauled him away quickly and couldn't stop talking about how big he was and that I was "super woman" for pushing him out in 30 minutes! My midwife stitched me up because I ripped a little, I had felt it a little bit but the pain was forgettable because all I could think about was my beautiful baby in tears. After they got his measurements and footprints, they brought him to me swaddled in a blanket. I remember looking at him directly in the eyes...it's the best feeling in the world. A feeling that can't even be described, you just have to experience it for yourself some day! I just couldn't help but to think "wow, I'm going to be looking into these beautiful eyes everyday for the rest of my life".

Just waiting....

Tomorrow I will be 41 weeks! I saw a new midwife yesterday, who actually works in labor and delivery so she was very very knowledgeable! I was dilated at 3-4cm and she was sure that I would go into labor last night or tonight because my body is ready! She said I could be induced at any time, I tried for today but they couldn't fit me in until 9/29! Ouch! One more week from today! Hopefully he comes on his own...come on Deegan!! She also told me that he's an estimated 8.5lbs and it's going to be a "beautiful vaginal birth" LOL! I asked her about a c-section because a different midwife had told me that I might need one...she told me NO WAY because I'm so tall. YAY!!! I have a stress test tomorrow...so we'll see how that goes!

Yesterday I started to feel a cold coming on...today, I woke up feeling like poop! Really drowsy, sore throat, and stuffy nose :( I've been running the humidifier and drinking hot fluids...so I'm hoping for the best! If I feel worse tomorrrow, I'm going to call my midwife and see what I should do or see what happens when I'm sick and I deliver! Pray for me and my baby <3

xoxo Dez

40 weeks!!

Wow...it has been a very long 40 weeks! But we made it...we're here at the mark of my "due date". I had a doctor's appt on Tuesday and everything looks great! My weight...my blood pressure...Deegan's heart rate, all in great shape! She did a cervical exam and I'm still dilated at 3 cm (she said it was a "loose" 3, lol) and she did another cervical stripping (OUCH!!). I made follow-up dr's appts for Sept 21st and Sept 23rd just in case he doesn't come before then!

Yesterday I felt very different! For one, I lost my mucus plug...not what I was expecting at all. I was under the impression that it just comes out in one piece, but mine came out throughout the day, most of it was a clear color (not much pink and no red at all). I also had a tension headache all day and started feeling nauseous towards the end of the day. Those are signs of preeclampsia! I told myself that if I felt the same after sleeping a while, then I would call labor and delivery. Well, I feel great today...no headache and no sickness! Yay! So we'll see what happens over the course of the next few days...I have so much book reading to do!!

xoxo Dez

Hospital tour

I met my hubby at the hospital this morning for our grand tour of the labor and delivery area! It was wayyyy nicer than I expected! I'm not a big fan of hospitals, but this seemed more cozy and more like a hotel LOL! We were taken to the labor and delivery room, which was alot smaller than I expected but very nice! The lights were dim, there was a window and bathroom...nice cabinetry with wood floors and a TV! Score! We were told that after about 2 hours, I would be taken from that room to the post-delivery room....which was also very nice! Dim lights again! Very relaxed and friendly environment. I'm so relieved and even more excited than I was before. The only thing that sucks is nooooo food or drink for the entire stay, just ice chips!! I hope I'm not in labor for long, hehe...need food for energy! I'm going to take pictures of EVERYTHING!! So excited!

Now it's time to organize Deegan's clothes for the 3rd time...LOL! Baby dressers are just so small! I decided that I'm putting all of his clothes in tubs and organizing them by size! Go me!!

xoxo Dez

Punching bag

Here is an example of what I'm going through in my 3rd trimester. I took this video a few weeks ago...let me tell you, this is NON-stop!!! I love my active guy! Every ultrasound tech I have seen (a total of 4 or 5 now) have ALL commented on how active he is. This is no joke...and non-stop like I said!!!



xoxo Dez

8 more days to go!

Still playing the waiting game!! I'm going crazy...I want to relax but I feel like I have a million things to do! I fell behind on my reading...so I need to read this week!! I started cleaning our bathrooms today because I probably won't be in the mood to do anything when Deeg gets here. Darrell is going to install the car seat bases in our cars today...we procrastinate, I know!!

We plastered my belly a few days ago. Definitely a 2 person mission lol! We bought the kit from babies r us for $20 and it was so worth it! It turned out really cool! I'm going to sand it down a bit to make it even and then paint some things on it. I will post a pic of it when I'm done...hopefully by next week!! So excited!!

I finished up his laundry yesterday...had socks and mittens to do! As a tip...use a mesh laundry net so you don't lose the small things in the washer and dryer! Makes life so much easier!

We have a hospital tour this friday so I'll let you know how it goes...

xoxo Dez

38 week appointment!

Went to see my midwife today...I love her! Miss Robin! Very sweet lady! Anyways, I was dilated at 2cm, and then she asked me if I wanted her to "strip" my cervix to have it dilate to 3cm! I told her to go ahead...the process was a little painful but it was over with quickly! She told me that she even felt the top of his head, awwwww!! Every woman is different, I could go into labor tonight or I could still get induced at 42 weeks...it all depends on my body! I packed our hospital bags today just in case!! I'M READY!!!!

Tomorrow I have a list of things to do...I bought my pump (made by playtex, will let you know my review once I use it)! I originally bought dr. brown's bottles, but I changed my mind to playtex nursers, so I need to exchange those tomorrow. The dr. brown's bottles have SOME good reviews, but more negatives than positives...lots of parts to wash and they leak! As for the playtex nursers, they are drop-ins, but that's the only negative! They fit my pump, they're good for breastfeeding, they don't leak, less parts to wash and the list goes on! The playtex liners can get quite expensive, so I'll be using the walmart brand (parent's choice) liners because they're the same and are half the price!! Parents choice: 100 for $5, Playtex: 50 for $5...no thanks! Plus we'll be saving money by breastfeeding and not using formula anyway :)

xoxo Dez

Back pains and goals

The other night I got some SERIOUS back pains while we were at Walmart picking up my breast pump. Felt like menstrual cramping...it was horrible!!!!! As soon as we got home, I laid down and they were gone! Haven't got them since...that was 2 nights ago!

On another note, I've been reading alot of articles at babycenter.com (this website is AWESOME) and alot of parents recommend setting goals for yourself after your baby is born to prevent postpartum depression and everything. So here are some of my goals:
1) Shower everyday (which I'm sure will be hard to do!)
2) Take better care of myself (eat better, slowly start to workout, keep my hair and skin healthy)
3) Get a job when I'm ready...hopefully Nov-Dec!
4) Enroll in dance class after I get a job and I have the O.K. to workout!
5) Take Deegan for walks (at least 4-5 times a week)
6) Enroll in school for January :)

xoxo Dez

Get your sleep now!

YEAH RIGHT!! Everyone keeps telling me, "get your sleep now". With a huge, heavy stomach that's highly uncomfy, REALLY? I wake up probably at least 6 times everynight to use the restroom and change sides (I can't just sleep on one side through the entire night). After changing sides (which kind of hurts), it takes about 5-10 minutes to get situated and comfortable again! I don't care if I don't get any sleep when Deegan is born...at least I will have comfy sleep!! Even if it's only for an hour...it will so be worth it!! Darrell bought me the BOPPY pillow when I was about 4-5 months and that thing works WONDERS!! I'm sure you could pull it off with regular pillows...but it is amazing and actually helps me to get some rest!

So I've done ALOT of research on postpartum stuff to help me get back into shape. The BELLY BANDIT...after doing some research, I purchased it on ebay! It's a waist band used by celebrities that you wear after your pregnancy, helps your waist slim down (NOT tone, but slim)! I'm totally excited about this...it has REALLY good reviews! It goes for $50-$60, but I got it for $35 on ebay...SCORE! The SHRINKX...I've done research on this as well...research queen haha! The shrinkx has really good reviews as well...it's a band for your hips that helps your hips go back to pre-pregnancy size faster. I bought this on diapers.com because I had a $10 coupon so it was the cheapest for me! I'm using these right away (if I don't have a c-section) for the first 6 weeks, when you're not supposed to do strenuous exercise, and then stop using them when I start working out hardcore! I'm going to keep blogging after my pregnancy to let you know how it goes!! :)

xoxo Dez

My preggo tips and advice!

So I'm almost 37 weeks, and I think I've had a great pregnancy so far. I'm going to share things that I've done throughout my entire pregnancy for all the preggies out there because I know there's alot of you! Just remember, every woman is different...you know your own body so listen to it! And also, be sure to consult with your doctor/midwife if you're unsure about something...and don't do it until you get their advice first!

I'll start off with the beginning of my pregnancy. I instantly started eating more fruits and veggies, they're so good for you, even if you're not pregnant! Along with that, I added more protein and whole grains to my diet (it's recommended to get 6 servings of whole grains a day) because those are very vital during pregnancy as well.

I also started taking prenatal vitamins right away, along with my calcium supplements because I do not drink enough milk and it's important for the baby to get plenty of calcium as his bones are forming! **TIP: If you have troubles remembering to take pills daily, go out and buy a pill box from the pharmacy, fill it up for the week and leave it somewhere in the kitchen or car...someplace where you will see it everyday! That's what I did!**

I began prenatal exercises right away...prenatal exercise 3-4 times a week with prenatal yoga on the days in between! **TIP: I used 'Prenatal Exercise with Summer Sanders' and 'Shiva Rea's Prenatal Yoga' dvds...you can get them both on amazon.com!** They worked great for me and I'll definitely use them for future pregnancies! Some mommies can't really exercise until the 2nd trimester because of morning sickness and stuff, I guess I was very lucky! I got nausea...but it couldn't stop me from working out and pumping more blood to my baby!

I also started using cocoa butter right away, morning and night...literally caked on! **TIP: Some cocoa butters are greasy, so save the greasy stuff for bed time and sleep in old t-shirts, I used wifebeaters!** It's just really important to STAY moisturized...as my stomach got bigger, it would itch like crazy!!! So make sure your shower gel is moisturizing too! **TIP: I use Dove's deep moisture shower gel, Queen Helen's cocoa butter (tub), Vaseline's cocoa butter oil, and Suave's cocoa butter lotion**

As my 2nd trimester approached, we were buying things like crazy, which leads to my next...**TIP: Don't buy too many things, especially clothes, before your baby shower!!**

I began changing up my exercise routine up a bit and started swimming a few days out of the week...my midwife had told me that swimming is the BEST prenatal exercise, and I believe her because it made me feel great! I kept my diet the same...but naturally, I ate some junk food that I was craving on different days. Went out of control with carbs and sugars...I was paying attention to everything else but those! My midwife said SLOW DOWN on the sugars and carbs! So I did just that! **TIP: It's not a bad thing to eat some junk (potato chips, etc) here and there, especially if you're craving it...but just watch your portions! I started monitoring my carb/sugar intake to no more than 240mg a day! You would be really surprised to see how much carbs/sugars are in things like bread, milk, cereal...JUICE is the worst!! I drink Ocean Spray's Diet juices now because they're so much better for you.**

My stomach was itch central...still is itching at 37 weeks. **TIP: oatmeal baths worked for me...I still try to take them, even though it's hard to get my 6-foot pregnant-ass in the tub...I still try because it feels so good on that itchy belly!**

At the present moment...I'm still wearing my wedding rings! My body has done great with swelling and circulation...I swear it's yoga!! And also all of that water I drink! However, there are times if I'm on my feet too long, my feet do start to swell because of the extra weight! **TIP: it's important to elevate your feet when you can, and drink plenty of water! Another thing that helps me is support hoses...they sell the pregnancy kind at Motherhood Maternity!** It's totally worth it to buy the good kind @ $6each so you don't get vericose veins!!

As far as my experience goes, the 3rd trimester is the hardest. You're tired of being pregnant, you want to meet your little one, you have so much to do, the pains get bad in the 9th month, more dr's visits, classes to take, so much to learn...totally overwhelming! **TIP: Remember, you are NOT a superhuman! It's great to try to get things done before your 3rd trimester so you don't have to worry about them last minute (all that stress is no good on the baby)! So try to do the baby's laundry and nursery before your 3rd trimester. If you didn't, then ask for help from your partner...remember, they can't read your mind!**

Stay organized!! I'm telling you, you will miss a dr. appt or class if you don't! **TIP: I used a planner for myself...wrote down all dr. appts, classes that I was scheduled for, AND TO-DO LISTS! To-do lists are a must to keep yourself from getting overwhelmed...I just take things day-by-day and accomplish what's on my list for that day and worry about tomorrow, tomorrow!** I also think baby classes and baby books are great, especially for first time mommies and daddies! Darrell and I have taken about 4 and have learned ALOT! **TIP: The must have book is...'What to expect when expecting'. So informative!!**

While pregnancy is a beautiful thing, often times, we don't feel very beautiful! We're sweaty, moody, and BIG! So the romance might die down a little...just keep in mind that your partner is in this too! **TIP: Show your love for your partner several ways, whether it's cooking dinner for him, letting him watch his favorite tv show or movie, etc. You can always work on the romance after the baby arrives and when you're not feeling like such a whale!**

Hope that helped a bit! :)
xoxo Dez

P is for Pregnancy...or PAIN??

Last night was by FAR the worst pain that I've been through. On top of my annoying and painful sciatic nerve, I've also been getting these pains near my groin area. It's located near my inner, upper thigh...the crevice that connects to your groin. It's like a shooting pain that kind of tingles! Almost feels like my leg is going to pop out of my hip joint...it literally takes my breath away and I have to grab onto something so I don't fall! I was only getting it on my right side at first, but last night while I was fixing up dinner, I was getting them on both sides! It's horrible...brought me to tears because it wouldn't stop! I'm not sure if it's the obturator nerve, or if it has something to do with my sciatic nerve...not sure! But I am sure that it's because he is dropping and it's getting close...my nerves are going crazy because of all the pressure! I'm definitely going to talk to my midwife about it at my next visit! Until then...rest and relaxation is a must!!!

xoxo Dez

Sciatic nerve plllleeeaaasseee go away!!!

My back is KILLING me...it's happening more often and it hurts, real bad! I should be reading up on books...or doing something productive, but I'm just not in the productive mood! And that's ok! A pregnant lady deserves a day of rest and relaxation, right? :) Speaking of that, all you preggies out there MUST have a prenatal massage later in your pregnancy. It feels AMAZING!! I got one almost 2 weeks ago and it was very uplifting. When you get this far along, you definitely are done being pregnant. The extra weight is taking a toll on my body, I REALLY miss strenuous exercise, I miss eating whatever I want, I miss sleeping (won't get that anytime soon, anyway) and so many other things! You're excited, but nervous...and tired. So many emotions at once. I truly believe the 3rd trimester is the worst because of all the crazy emotions and physical conditions. Getting a massage definitely helps. If you can't afford one, then take a nice bath with salts and oatmeal (helps with the itching)...that might even be a little complicated though, it's really hard to get into and out of the bath these days *lol*

Tomorrow or Monday, I'll write a little something on what I recommend for each trimester, based on my experience!

xoxo Dez

Only 3 weeks and 6 days left!

I had my follow-up ultrasound done on Monday, and good news...Deegan's kidneys are back to normal! However, I did meet with the pediatrician nephrologist and she still wants to put him on amoxicillin after he's born and have an ultrasound done on him after 2 weeks! It's just a precaution and I'm totally fine with that...better safe than sorry!

My doctor's appointment today went good...they tested me for group B strep, if positive then they need to give me medication during labor so the baby can't get it! So we'll find out those results soon! On another note...the lower back pain that I'm experiencing is my sciatic nerve, OUCH!!! She said it's totally normal during pregnancy and should go away after he's here...let's hope she's right!

As for other things, I'm going to spend this weekend reading up on my baby books, updating his "baby memory book" and hopefully packing our hospital bags! I need to swing by walmart AGAIN and get some travel sized things...seems like we go there alot these days!!

xoxo Dez

Updates and more updates!

I'm really bad with this blog thing, but we've had alot going on so what can I say? ;) First of all, I got the results of my 3-hour GMD test and my sugar levels were a little high, but not high enough to be diabetic. The nurses called it "borderline-diabetic". So I went to a class on eating healthy and how to cut back on sugars! For weeks, I had to change my diet...I actually felt like I was eating more, but ended up cutting down on sugars and carbs (my 2 favorite things). It was tough...but now I'm to the point that I'm eating whatever again but still not eating as much sugar (before, I was eating ice cream everyday) and everything is going good! My advice to all of you pregnant mommies out there...watch out for sugars and carbs! Eating too many of them is really bad for you and the baby...I had to learn the hard way!

We moved into a townhome a little over a month ago...so we've been really busy trying to unpack and get ready for Deegan! 4 more weeks to go from today!

As for exercise...I've cut down ALOT! With the move and with my stomach getting bigger, it's REALLY hard to be motivated! But I'm still doing yoga...did it today as a matter of fact!

As for my body...I've gained 30 lbs so far. And I'm completely happy about that because it's 100% healthy. I look at these moms that are underweight to begin with and only gain 15 lbs with their pregnancy and that is just not healthy...I don't understand how they could restrict their diet when they're carrying a life inside of them! Women that are underweight, are supposed to gain more than 35 lbs when they're pregnant...and if they complain about that and refuse to do it, then in my mind they have an eating disorder and shouldn't be allowed to have babies! It's a sad sad world out there! But I'm not afraid to share how much I've gained...I know it's healthy for my son and I know I'll lose it from breastfeeding :)

As for pain...I have felt great up to this point. I'm 9 months now, and I'm definitely feeling the extra weight! My knees hurt a little when I first wake up...I have to walk much slower or I get small pains in my lower stomach. I've also been getting shooting pains in my lower back and pelvic area, which I'm going to talk to the doc about tomorrow. They hurt so bad that I have to grab on to something and sometimes it takes my breath away, ouch! Update on that tomorrow!!

Everyone says "get sleep now"...YEAH RIGHT! Being 9 months...your stomach is bigger and heavier than ever...you can't really use your stomach muscles to pull yourself off of the couch and bed...it's very complicated! I pee about 3-5 times everynight and it takes me about 20 minutes to get comfy again...sleep is impossible at this point! However...my little body pillow is a life saver...it really does help! I just can't wait to be able to sleep on my stomach and back again...so tired of sleeping on my side!

Baby classes are a MUST! We've taken 3 so far and they're great! Filled up with so much info and free stuff...I recommend taking them!! We've been to classes on budgeting for the baby (REALLY helpful...they talked about wills and everything), breastfeeding (so excited to do this...), and abc's of having a navy baby (info about communicating with a baby, etc...it was great!). We're going to be taking a CPR class and also we have a hospital tour coming up, YAY!!!!

I feel like we have so much left to do! We still need to shop for little things...baby wipes, nursing bras, formula just in case breastfeeding goes way wrong, and so much other stuff! We're going to try to accomplish this today or tomorrow...lol. I want to update our wills, because ya never know! We need a changing pad cover...Ivy needs her shots...and much more stuff on the list! I really don't want to leave the house 2 weeks before my due date because I'm scared of going into labor while driving or something, ya never know!

xoxo Dez

Gestational Diabetes

So I went in for my ultrasound follow-up and Deegan's kidneys are still a little dilated :( My midwife said that I would need to do another follow-up ultrasound at 34 weeks...and worse case, if his kidneys are still dilated then we might need to give him medicine after he's born...poor thing :(

I was also tested for GMD last week...they called me last night to say that my levels were a little high and that i needed to get more testing done. Went to the lab and did that today...had to fast for 13 hours, get my blood drawn, drink the nasty sugar drink, wait an hour, get my blood drawn, wait an hour, get my blood drawn, wait an hour and get my blood drawn for a 4th time. FML!!! I about died...I was starving...bored...sick...dizzy. And I guess I wasn't supposed to drive myself home...OOPS!!! It took me 2 hours to get home thanks to my car overheating...beautiful! The joys of being pregnant and alone.

So now just waiting on my results for the GMD testing...I really hope everything is ok because I love sugar...and I do realize now that perhaps I was eating too much of it. What did I have for dinner tonight? PB and jelly sandwich...WOW. I REALLY need to cut back if I have GMD or not is what I'm saying.

In the meantime...me myself and I have signed up for a butt load of parenting classes. Fun stuff. I'm sure I'll learn alot and I'm sure it will help me...it's been 15 years since my little brother was born...I def need a refresher!!

xoxo Dez

Sorry it's been so long :(

Geez...I totally forgot about my pregnancy blog!! I'm so forgetful these days! My OB called me back after my 19 week ultrasound and had told me that they'll be doing a follow-up ultrasound at 28 weeks to check the kidneys again. My appt. is June 24th for that...and then I see my OB on June 25th to discuss my results and to do my glucose test :( Not fun!!

Everything else has been going good. We're not moving to Washington anymore, so I don't have to stress about moving so far late in my pregnancy. However, we are moving to a cheaper and cuter little townhome in one month from today!! Really excited about that because we've been buying things for the nursery and I just want to decorate already!!!

I saw my OB at 24 weeks and everything looked great. My uterus measured 3cm larger than what it should be...and I'm gaining about 1 lb a week which is recommended. The weight gain control is getting harder now though...I'm becoming more tired and I want junk food all the time. But, as of yesterday, I started doing morning workouts again and started eating better again...so hopefully that junk food thing was just a phase!

I feel Deegan kicking all the time now...sometimes I just stare at my stomach watching his little bursts of kicks.

The baby shower was on June 6th, 2010. It was great to have everyone there for the support...it was tough trying to keep everyone entertained without having a host and some people weren't that sociable, but for the most part it was fun. We got tons of gifts that I wasn't expecting at all!! Deegan has so many clothes...I'm so thankful!!

For the most part, I'm feeling good. My legs hurt a little after standing too long and it's hard to move around as my belly gets bigger...but I'm dealing with it! Just enjoying it while it lasts :)

As for the next few days, I'm going to be signing up for baby classes! Darrell and I went to a free class on base called "budget for baby". And it was awesome...they gave us tons of info about having a baby in the military along with all of the free stuff and benefits! PLUS, we got a bag full of free stuff...a crocheted blanket, onesies, PJs, crib sheets, booties, and the list goes on! All Gerber stuff too! So cool!!

xoxo Dez

19 week ultrasound!

Wow...got some updates!!!
4-27-10: Darrell had a half day at work and was able to go with me to the 19 week ultrasound check-up. They reconfirmed that Deegan is indeed a boy, 98% turtle were their exact words, lol. Three people have now mentioned how active he is...he moves around constantly!! The bad news is that both of his kidneys were a bit dilated. But the doctor had said he was sure that his urinary system was working because there was plenty of amniotic fluid and Deegan's bladder was full! But my OB called me on Friday and said the fetal specialist department at the hospital will be calling me for a follow-up ultrasound just to make sure everything is all good! Still waiting for their call...

05-01-10: Darrell and I went to Tommy's for dinner because I was craving some bad food! LOL...when we got home I sat on the couch and felt this hard jab in my stomach. I placed my hand over the same spot and I felt Deegan's kick from the outside...I screamed for Darrell, and luckily, he kicked one more time so Darrell could feel!! We were both giggling because it's so weird...but very cool. I feel him move around all the time now on the inside.

05-05-10: I'm so excited for our baby shower on June 6th!!! I just want everyone I love to be there and share this experience with me!! Yeah!! As for symptoms...I've been feeling tired lately, I think it's the heat. AND, my stomach is growing...it's so big I feel like I can't breathe sometimes, like right now as I type LOL. And it's itching like crazy...I've been caking on cocoa butter, oil, and other moisturizers...I just hope they do their job!!!

xoxo Dez

Feeling preggers now!

So I know it's been over a week again...I haven't been posting much because honestly, I wasn't having that many symptoms! WELL...that has changed!! Where do I begin??

First of all, my body is tired alot! Even after doing prenatal yoga and fitness...I still run out of breath going up the stairs! I can't imagine what it's going to be like 3 months from now LOL.

My stomach has been ITCHING like crazy!!!!! It's literally driving me insane hehe. So I guess it's finally growing! I have had a few people tell me that if you're trying to PREVENT stretch marks, do not use a cocoa butter that has vitamin E in it because vitamin E tightens the skin!! So, right not I'm using Suave's cocoa butter, Queen Helen's cocoa butter, and Vaseline's cocoa butter oil. They seem to be doing good so far (granted, my belly isn't huge yet), but I also need to look into itch relief! I know there's stuff you can put into a bathtub to help...more on that later!

I have 2 pairs of jeans that fit, but as of yesterday they are too uncomfortable to wear! My hubby is the sweetest man alive and took me on a shopping spree for maternity wear!! YEAH!! Maternity clothes are very different...definitely don't go shopping with your hopes too high. We went to 5 different places...I bought some shorts at Kohl's and 2 pairs of NICE jeans at Motherhood Maternity. When I say "nice" jeans, I mean...they fit me very well...I don't feel like a balloon (most maternity jeans are so baggy, you might as well and wear sweats) and also, they were made "long" which is great because I have very long legs!!

Water...I LOVE water. Even before I was pregnant...I drank water 24/7. But now, I seriously can't get enough LOL...I have it everywhere I go. Everytime we eat out I order "water"...even subway!!! I love it and I think Deegan does too.

My medical ultrasound is 2 weeks from tomorrow...can't wait!!! I really hope the last ultrasound we did was right about his gender because we've been buying ALOT of things lately!! Can't wait to post pics and show you!!!

xoxo Dez

IT'S A BOY!!!!

So wow...haven't written in a while! But I have a few updates...yay! First of all, I had my 16 week check up on March 31st. They checked my blood pressure, took more blood, checked my weight and the baby's heart beat! Everything is more than great! They made my ultrasound appointment for April 27th. Really??? I can't wait that long!!!

Darrell has been gone alot, and hasn't been to any visits with me yet! It's so amazing to see the baby and hear the heartbeat...so I decided to check out some outside ultrasound places down here. After researching, I found this place called A Baby Visit...they have so many cool packages and they were the most costly. So, I made my appointment for this morning!

We arrived early and there was noone waiting! I got the "all gender package", which included a 20-minute 2D & 4D ultrasound, 6 black and white pictures, and gender determination! The set-up was really neat...we walked into a huge confortable room that was a theater...with a big screen tv and a huge couch. We were able to watch the ultrasound on the big screen tv and we had the option to invite up to 15 guests! It was neat!

Right away she went between the legs and I knew it was a boy...I seen "it"! Little Deegan was moving like crazy...with his hands on his face and he even waved! It was so amazing and breathtaking! We watched him lift his head and drink the embryonic fluid with his mouth wide open...sweet! It was so special and I'm glad we did it! I want to wait until he grows a little more and maybe go back, because they have a package where they record the ultrasound on dvd....so neat!!!!

So Deegan Ryley Farnsworth it is :)

On another note...Darrell and I went on base and bought the most adorable baby blanket and baby bib!! The baby blanket is black and white and says "united states navy" on it and the bib is a spittin' image of the blue digi's! So cute!!

xoxo Dez

The baby name will be...

Wow, I never realized how hard it was picking out baby names!! The first names were easy because we wanted to stick with names that started with a "D" to keep the tradition going from Darrell's side of the family. That narrowed it down alot for us because there's so many cute names out there! After picking first names...middle names were more tough to pick out, because in my opinion, it needs to go together well.

So we made a final decision on names....*drum roll*

For a boy...
DEEGAN RYLEY FARNSWORTH

For a girl...
DARCIE MAE FARNSWORTH


We should find out the gender sometime in April...hopefully sooner than later!
xoxo Dez

Yeast sucks!!

Sorry it's been so long! Darrell's gone for 2 weeks, will be back on the 19th, so I've been trying to stay busy so time will go by fast! This is the most boring friday of my life lol. I did go to lunch with a friend earlier, which was nice...and I picked up some lingerie for when Darrell gets home. I really hope that I fit into it because my pants and shirts are a little snug lately!! :(

I am 13 weeks...will be 14 weeks this Thursday *yay* I stopped getting nausea and my face is clearing up! Everything is good...except the clothing issue and a little bloaty-bloaty here and there. I really wish I would start showing because I feel like all these symptoms are for nothing, ya know? LOL

Oh yeah...one more icky symtpom I wanted to talk about...yeast infection. Ick...I have one thanks to baby in the womb. I called the doctor and asked the nurse what medicines would be safe to take, and she said "anything in the store will work". WOW really? I didn't trust that so I did my own research...apparently, monistat 1 and 3 have been linked to miscarriages and monistat 7 is completely safe. Thank God I checked, huh? So I'm currently doing monistat 7 and things are better already :)

I did buy my first baby item today...precious planet diaper bag that I found for $9.99. It's the large bag too...can you believe that one?!? I couldn't!!! We're trying hard not to buy stuff yet because we will be moving to WA in a few months (still not sure on dates thanks to the Navy)...but we will see :) Yay!!

xoxo Dez

More sickness and more yoga!

So, I still haven't officially gotten morning sickness...but I do feel nauseous every once in a while. My doctor prescribed me vitamin B-6 to take with my prenatal vitamins to help with nausea. Well...started taking them yesterday and I feel that my nausea has gotten worse! I don't even feel comfortable leaving the house! So I'm going to stop taking them and see what happens...to be continued...


This yoga dvd is the BOMB for pregnant ladies! I've been doing it for 3 weeks now...and I definitely feel a difference in flexibility and I have a sense of calmness! The ONLY negative side to it, is that they go through the moves fast, so sometimes I just hit 'pause' and hold it for a little longer. You need a yoga mat and a chair...and for your 2nd and 3rd trimesters you will need a yoga block and a yoga strap! It's great too, because it's broken down for each trimester! Love this...go buy it now!!

xoxo Dez

First official doctor's appointment.

So my first official appointment was yesterday...please tell me why they call me yesterday morning saying that they lost all of my paperwork? I registered at Balboa NMC and my first appointment was at Miramar NMC, so in the process of sharing my information, it was lost! So they asked me to go in thirty minutes sooner to fill out my paperwork ALL over again! But that's not why I was upset...I was upset because both of our social security numbers' were on that paperwork! How could they lose it so easily? Seriously?? So I go in thirty minutes early, and ta-da...Balboa was faxing over my information as I was speaking to the receptionist. AWESOME! So I sat there until my appointment time and read some parenting material...luckily, I was the only patient there at the time! Love that! They call me in...my vitals are great, my lab results are great...I got some answers for my questions. 'What can I do about my acne?? I look like a pizza face...'. The practitioner prescribed me some cool pads...don't even know the name but they're working so far!! And also 'When will I find out the sex?'...in April at my 16-20 week mark. So after all paperwork and questions were cleared, we continued with the "physical exam" and then the best part, my first ultrasound. Had NO idea they did the first ultrasound through the Va-J...yup, they did LOL. It was amazing...I really wished Darrell had been there. I saw the baby on the screen and heard it's heartbeat...so strong and fast! It pretty much made it official that THERE IS really a baby inside of me...and it's growing! So exciting!! Here is the photo...

xoxo Dez

Jobless and pregnant.

So before Darrell and I got this exciting surprise...I was on the hunt for a job! Being pregnant now, it's really hard looking for a job! I'm a very honest person and would prefer to just tell employers that I'm pregnant right away, unfortunately, I think I would get discriminated against. When employers here "pregnant lady", they think that every woman has morning sickness, that they need to pay every woman maternity leave, and the list goes on. So, I have decided, for the listed reasons, that I'm going to try to hide my pregnancy until I'm comfortable enough in the job. I really hate doing this, but have no choice! My only limitations are...I definitely can't lift heavy things or be around toxic chemicals. So...narrowing my search down to that is pretty tough. I have contemplated on selling Mary Kay, or maybe starting my own business somehow. I'm not sure what to do...but I'm not giving up! Maybe I can start a business employing pregnant women? That would be awesome if there were such a thing!

Darrell and I would probably survive without me getting a job, but honestly...I really want to make some extra money to pay off bills, maybe get a more reliable car, and of course, save for the baby!

Anywho...my first official appointment is tomorrow! I'm not sure what to expect because I will be 11 weeks this week...I guess we'll see ;)

xoxo Dez

Down with the sickness.

So yesterday is the most sick that I have gotten so far! I woke up with the worst headache ever (not a migraine from previous experiences), and I had horrible nausea. I was in bed ALL day not knowing what to do! I took 1 extra strength Tylenol (aspirin-free!) and unfortunately, it did nothing! So pretty much slept all day yesterday...woke up today with the same aggrevating headache! After doing some research, I have read that drinking 200mg (about 2 cups of coffee) of caffeine a day had no effect on previous case studies...so I drank about a half a cup and did some yoga. Ta-da...my headache was gone an hour later! Boy do I hate coffee...but I'm so thankful that it helped me out!

FYI- You should always consult your practitioner before taking anything that you're unsure about!

Insurance can be discouraging!

But don't let it get the best of you! I have Triwest (military insurance) and I used to have Kaiser. What a huge change that was!!! They called me yesterday and told me that I had to go to the Naval Medical Center to register, take ANOTHER urine test, and get more blood work done. Next time I go, I am going EARLY because parking was hell, but luckily I didn't get lost like last time! I go in thinking that it will be a piece of cake and that I will get seen there and stuff...NO. I go in, get my positive test results, fill out a bunch of paperwork, for them to tell me to go to another building to get bloodwork done and made me another appointment to get seen at a different base. Wow, really?? WOW. lol! I know I'm probably being picky, especially for someone who is lucky enough to even have insurance...it's just hard getting the run around about everything when you're so used to going in and out and being done!! Anyways...after being there forever, I ran over to building 1 to get my bloodwork done. Got lost...lmao. Lucky for me, some nice doctor helped me out! After getting my blood filled up by 8 tubes...I was on my way out! So...I guess this will be continued on Feb 24th (the day of my first official appointment, hopefully). And I'm 10 weeks today :) or so they say...

xoxo
Dez

Babycenter.com!!

So I have discovered this website, babycenter.com. It is amazing for new mommies like myself! It has soooo much information, who needs a doctor at this point? LOL jk! No but seriously, I signed up for free a few weeks ago and could not be happier! They send you cute emails on a weekly basis giving information about your specific week of pregnancy. It is awesome...go sign up NOW! Even if you have a toddler or an older child...it's very helpful!!

And the best part about this website are the deals they have!! Just for signing up (for free), they send you a $59 gift certificate via email for canvasondemand.com! Canvas On Demand is a website that makes special prints of any picture that you want onto a canvas board! It's beautiful...and a $59 credit can get you a free 8x10 canvas of your bundle of joy, or a family photo! SO WORTH IT! And the gift certificate they send, expires in a year...so if you're pregnant when you sign up (like me), then no problemo!! Hope you enjoy!!

xoxo Dez

So it begins...

Ta-Da! Yup, it's true...Darrell and I are expecting our first baby! How exciting, huh? A baby is the ultimate gift of love between 2 people...here's the story...

On January 27th, I went to the store and bought a pregnancy test. I missed my period in January, and began experiencing breast tenderness, facial breakouts, and cramping. I knew something was up...my body felt a bit different. I took the test and it was positive within 2 seconds. I was so excited, and with my luck Darrell was out at sea that whole week and was due back Friday! I really didn't want to tell him over email, so I bit my tongue for 2 very LONG days. I ended up back at the store and bought a 3-pack of pregnancy tests, just in case LOL. I took 1 more later that same Wednesday, POSITIVE. Took a second test the day Darrell was due back, POSITIVE. I have thought about this day before and thought about how I would tell Darrell...so I skipped to Target and bought a baby bib that said "I Love Daddy" and wrapped it up with all 3 pregnancy tests. I had dinner (yummy BBQ ribs) ready on the table when he got home from his long 5-day journey, and had the present waiting for him on the table. He was pretty anxious and had no clue, after all this was very unplanned...so I let him open it first thing, plus I couldn't hold it in any longer. He saw the bib first and there was a huge smile planted on his face, his eyes glowed with excitement and teared for joy. We hugged eachother, laughing with happiness, for about 10 minutes. The moment was perfect, and will never be forgotten, which is exactly what I wanted to accomplish. We spent the rest of the night talking about our future bundle of joy.

So we've known about the pregnancy for 3 weeks now. I had my first visit with my general doctor, who confirmed my pregnanacy and is mailing me a referral to finally see an obgyn...Triwest doctors are pretty slow, unfortunately. So that's our next step! In the meantime, we have told the majority of our families and our best friends, we've been reading parenting books, and I've been doing prenatal yoga 3-4 times a week because it's great for your body during pregnancy and also, the whole labor process :)

I'm going to be blogging day-to-day about my pregnancy for other new mommies out there. I'm a very private person...and not the type to be blowing up facebook/myspace with all of my signs and symptoms because not everyone wants to hear that stuff (especially guy buddies), so if you want to know what's going on and really want to know everything about my pregnancy then you can come here and read all about it!

I'll also be sharing tips and things like coupons with other future mommies out there, so reading this blog might be a benefit for you! :)

xoxo Dez